Irish Blue in a Running Shoe

Part 1 of 2: ChiRunning and the MAF

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 01:01:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I finally did something I've been wanting to do for some time now, I attended a half day ChiRunning clinic. I must say, I was not disappointed. Having read the book and watched the DVD that Petra (bless her heart) sent me some time ago, I still felt like I was not "getting it". Since I'm getting ready to embark on a 16 week half marathon training program, I thought it was time I figure this thing out and start really working on my form in the hopes of preventing injury and improving my running efficiency.

The clinic was fairly small with only 8 participants and a lot of one-on-one from the instructor. Mostly, I found the video she shot of us running and all of the drills we did to break our (now obvious) bad running form were extremely helpful. Since then, I've tried hard to stay focused on my form and implement the ChiRunning method. Obviously, it's a work in progress as changing such things is never easy...darn it.

After my session, I stuck around to talk to the instructor. During our conversation, she mentioned she is training for Ironman using the Maffetone Method. Hmmm, this peaked my curiosity because I hadn't heard of it (and I own A LOT of running books ;-)? She gave me some details - said he was a doctor, trained Mark Allen (six-time Ironman Triathlon World Champion) and was really different in his approach to training and fitness. I must admit, I could not rush home fast enough to get this book and order my first ever heart rate monitor!!!
+ = AWESOME RUNNER, RIGHT?

In part 2 of this post I'll fill you in on the book, the MAF test and how it's all going. Let's just say different is probably a major understatement. This book goes against pretty much all of the wisdom and advice contained in all of the other books combined. Damn you Philip Maffetone, you had me at page 1, so I read all 504.

I did say weekly, right?

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 13:55:00 +0000

If we are being completely honest, I didn't "get it together" as much as I had hoped this week. For starters, my run at night vs. morning plan is not working. Evenings got consumed with other things: uncle in the hospital, seeing a friend who lost her father, important things that I could not ignore. So, it's back to early morning running for me. Although I've longed for the day I could workout at night and not have to get up at 5AM and run, I fear it's never going to happen.

What I did get accomplished was 2 runs and 2 crossfit workouts. (I had planned for 3 runs and 3 crossfit workouts.) The goal for this week is to get on plan and get control of my eating, which has been downright shameful and pathetic.

Future of this blog...

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 01:20:00 +0000

For some time now, I have been struggling with whether or not to keep this blog going. Obviously, my posts last year were pretty sporadic. The times I did post, I struggled to find things to say. Most of it ended up being really boring. Still, I just don't seem to have the heart to take this blog down. So, I'm recommitting to posting to it. I'll be running and reporting on my running. I'm shooting for at least once a week. I also want to follow those of you who, unlike me, have done a great job keeping up with your blogs. I'm hoping 2012 will be the year I fall in love with running again and that this blog will be a place where I can share that joy with some very good friends.

Here's to 2012. Let's run our asses off people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Blogger goes missing...

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 12:52:00 +0000

Yes, that would be me. I had great intentions of blogging like crazy all summer. As you can clearly see, that has not happened. If only there were 10 more hours to every day, then maybe I would have time to actually be the person I am always wanting to be - organized and on top of everything...from family to work to running. Instead I tend to feel scattered and half way dedicated to these things, but never fully "with it". Sigh...so goes the story of a modern day woman, I suppose.

Tomorrow Bill and I are running our 3rd race in the XTERRA series. I will try to report back on this one and do a belated report on the other two races we've completed. All of which have been HILLY!

Go BIG or go home?

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 23:48:00 +0000

Have you ever had one of those "leap before you look" moments? Well, I just had one and I'm so excited about it!!! I pulled the trigger and registered for a trail running series this summer here in Ohio. (I'm trying to ignore the sudden wave of panic that began washing over me right after I hit the "Register Now" button. ;-)

So the plan goes something like this...trail run my a** off all summer long in order to get stronger and faster.

Northern Ohio Trail Running Series

5/28 - Vulture's Knob 15K(Wooster)

This one will be brutal...not really in shape for it yet, but I just need to finish the best I can.

6/11 - Hampton Hills 10K (Akron)
6/26 - Chapin Forest 8K (Kirtland)

7/9 - Mohican Trail Run 19K (Loundonville)

8/6 - Girdled Road 10K (Concord Twp) -

8/27 - Oak Hill Trail Run 8K (Boston Twp)

9/4 - Leave No Trace Half Marathon 21K (Peninsula)

I've never done this many races in such a short time, but I decided to borrow a page from someone I admire a great deal, Lizzie Lee. Lizzie has been racing like a crazy woman for some time now and every time I see her photos, I see someone who looks stronger and more alive with each passing race. Well, who doesn't want to be stronger and more alive? Isn't that why we run?

I think most of these courses are going to be tough. The trails I run here are not easy, but I've also never done more than 3 to 4 miles on them. So, I already know I'm going to be getting my butt kicked on a regular bases all summer long. Oddly enough, that's exactly what I was going for! I need to "Go BIG or go home", so to speak. I need to quit talking and planning and talking about running and just run and run and run.

Trail running is a blast and I absolutely LOVE it! So, I'm excited about my summer. What's even better, my husband is registered too!

Lastly, a shout-out to our dear friend Petra who ran her first Boston Marathon like a champ!! I'm amazed by what she's done with her running and I love that she's taken us all along on her journey.

2011: The Year of Consistency

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 11:49:00 +0000

For several months now I've felt very directionless and sad. Losing my mom has been painful and it was the kind of pain you have to endure because you can't avoid it, not really. I know I'm not over losing her, but I am ready to have goals again...so here goes.

One thing I've realized is - I NEED RUNNING. I think I've said it before (and many of you have said it too) running doesn't just improve my health, it makes everything about me better. It helps me manage stress, it's a great anti-depressant, it gives me confidence, improves my self-esteem, gives me energy, and just makes me a happier person. So, running and I are mates again. I'm back and I'm excited!

This year I've set a goal of running 1000 miles. Primarily, I picked this goal because I know the best thing I can do for my running is to become consistent. So, 2011 is "The Year of Consistency"...just getting strong and doing the miles...week after week after week. Boring, I know, but I do hope to fit in a few races, definitely shooting for 2 fall half marathons. It's still my favorite distance, even after last year's hills from hell race in which I swore off running several times and just plain swore...A LOT. ;-)

Strength, overall fitness, consistency...that's it. I'm keeping it simple this year and we'll see what happens. I'm going to use the blog to record my workouts. I would love to say I'll post more, but I'm not really sure at this point.

This week:
Monday: Ran 4mi
Tuesday: Weights
Wednesday: Ran 4mi
Thursday: Weights
Friday: OFF
Saturday: Ran 5mi
Sunday: Ran 4 muddy miles at the trail

Secretly I have a bigger goal in mind, but it's for 2012. If I want to get to it though, I need to get my s**t together in 2011. ;-)

Sad Ending to 2010...

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 13:51:00 +0000

On December 30th, my mom passed away. It's been a sad couple of weeks. I don't feel prepared for a world without her and I'm not exactly sure how to adjust.

Mom, you'll never leave the place that matters most, my heart...
Love Always,
Sis

If this was real boot camp...I would have been kicked out by now.

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:16:00 +0000

As you may be guessing, boot camp isn't going very well. Let's just say life sort of came along and derailed my plans. My dad was hospitalized at the beginning of August for 9 days and has spent the remainder of the month recovering in a nursing home (congestive heart failure and pneumonia). So, that has kept me running back and forth to see him several times a week. Luckily, he is doing better and scheduled to get sprung this Monday! Meanwhile, I started interviewing for a new job about mid-August, I accepted it last week, and I start September 13th. I'm beyond thrilled! It's my dream position (User Experience Architect) with a really cool company in Maumee, Oh. It is the same commute, but the hours are a little shorter. I think that I will absolutely love it. Everything about the job, company, and people felt very right from the get-go.

So, running? Well, yes I have been running, although not as hard or consistently as I had hoped. To take some pressure off, I've decided to shift my goal for this fall to getting consistent miles in every week and getting my volume up. I'm hoping by October I can then start in with some hills and trails. I'm not sure I'll do speed work, but definitely trails and tempo runs. My husband has graciously allowed me to slip my goal of sub-2 hr back to spring. Hugs to him for being such an awesome dude!!

Friday we leave to see our son in Virginia. Let's hope we don't get into trouble with Hurricane Earl!

Bye, Bye Gall Bladder ---- Hello Boot Camp!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 20:12:00 +0000

Bye, Bye Gall Bladder!!
Yes, you heard that right. I had to have my gall bladder removed last week. It was something I knew was coming...eventually. Not only does it seem to run in my family (sister, mom, 2 aunts have had it removed), but I had been having attacks for several months before I went to the ER in June.  They said it was full of stones, so I scheduled it to be removed. Luckily, I had the laparoscopic procedure and the recovery has been pretty easy. Unfortunately, I can't run for 2 weeks, but as soon as I'm cleared for flight, I'm embarking on a pretty intense 16 week training program for a flat, fast, fall half marathon.

Hello Boot Camp!! Trainin' like a soldier...
Here's the scoop on my half. The goal is a sub 2:00 hour. (By that I mean a 1:59:59 will work. ;-) Now, I know that's a pretty HUMONGOUS leap from my craptasticly bad spring half. However, I feel like I need a slightly unreachable goal to really get myself in the zone, does that make sense? That and I've recruited two other ~~idiots~~ runners who are going to shoot for the sub 2 hour with me. So, we are training together (for the most part) and running the same race and pace. The race is a small, low key deal called the Cleveland Fall Classic Half Marathon and it's November 21st. So, it should be perfect running weather (my perfect that is, which is like 40-60 degrees). So, I'm nervous, excited, and really just ready to go!!

Training will consist of 5 days per week of running and include a midweek long run, a Saturday long run, a tempo run, and a trail run. The trail running is tough and it's going to be a challenge for me, but the fast people in my running club swear by it, so I'm going to suck it up and do it.  (I foresee a lot of foul language during this run...lol.) Also, the midweek long run (probably 7 miles) is a hilly route. Like I said, it's the toughest training I've ever attempted, but I know that's what is required if I want to see BIG improvements.

See fat girl run? Well, not for long. Part of this plan (the first six weeks) consists of me losing 12 lbs. The fact is I need all of the help I can get to reach this goal and dropping 12 pounds would put me right where I need to be according to the book I read on weight/body fat and endurance running. I need every advantage I can get and I think being lighter and running a flat, fast course on a cool fall day is the magic ticket! Let's hope I'm right because Bill bet me $250 bucks...meaning I go sub 2 hour and he pays me the dough...which I will need for new jeans cause I'll be so damn thin!!

So, there you have it. That's what I'll be up to this fall.  What's everyone else doing? Do tell...

Newton Review Is In - Are the Lady Isaacs Still the Bomb??

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 23:13:00 +0000

Ok, so better late than never, right? I'm still totally loving on these shoes! I must admit, I was a little concerned initially that my foot may not adapt. When you first wear them, it almost feels like your foot is rocking backwards as the lugs in the front create a fit that seems to be the exact opposite of a traditional shoe. Running in them didn't feel too weird, but walking in them did. Oddly, after about 3 weeks, I never noticed this again. I would recommend you break them in slowly and use them on your shorter runs for about the first 3 weeks though, as they suggest. (Yes, I actually followed their advice. Me?)

Fit
The fit is amazingly comfortable! I've had issues before with shoes that give me blisters or rub the back of my heel. I have had none of that. They're very breathable and feather light too, which was the first thing I noticed when I put them on.

Style
Some reviewers complained about the colors they offer. Personally, I love the color of mine (lime green and orange). Either way, I never buy a running shoe based on how it looks. I also read that people thought the shoe strings were too short. I never had issues here either and I double knot my shoes.

Take a peak...
Women's Shoes
Men's Shoes

Heel Striking
The marketing hype surrounding Newtons is that they discourage a heel strike, which they point out as the cause of a lot of running related injuries. So, do they? I would say 100% yes. In fact, I'm not sure how you can physically heel strike in this shoe because of the way it is designed.

Durability
I will try to post a separate pic of the bottom of my shoes. (As soon as I locate a camera...I dropped mine into a travel mug full of coffee...sigh.) They're showing some signs of wear on the front lugs, but nothing major. I've put 253 miles on them and I'm guessing they're good for another 200-250.

Cost
Ouch! They're the most expensive running shoe I've purchased to date. They retail for about $150, but I got mine at a 15% discount due to my running club membership (which the store I bought them at honors).

Overall, are they worth it? If you've been injured and/or think you are a heavy heel striker, I would try the Newtons. Let's face it, they may cost a bit more, but trips to the doctor/therapist aren't cheap either!! I have not had any injury flare ups (hip or knee) since I started wearing them and I did a hilly half marathon in April. Of course, I can't prove it's the shoe and I've also been working on my form and trying to make it more ChiRunner like, but I'm very happy with the shoe and will continue to wear/buy them. Who knows, I may be a Newton Girl for Life!!!

Also, these shoes have their own blog!
The Running Front

Finally, I think wearing a shoe named after Isaac Newton is making me smarter too. Others would disagree.;-)

Coming Soon...

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 12:33:00 +0000

A post! I know I've neglected the blog lately. I'll try to get a post out this weekend on the Newtons and also what I've been up to of late.

Until then, run strong!
Irish Blue

I love this tool!! Create a cool training plan with it...

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Wed, 26 May 2010 17:29:00 +0000

Ok, I did say the Newton shoe review was next, but quickly before I forget. Check out this tool, if you've not seen it already. Love it! My only complaint is I wish they had options under "Starting Week" that were further into the future. Some of us want to plan ahead. ;-)

Runner's World Smart Coach

Kentucky Derby Half Marathon Race Report

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Wed, 12 May 2010 11:04:00 +0000

Sorry it has taken me a while to get to this most awesome of race reports (building up your suspense gentle reader). The truth is, we’ve been crazy busy with baby showers, weddings, softball games, and icing down our various running parts.

First off, let me just say we had a great time in Louisville, KY. Wow, who knew that city had so much to offer? Very nice area where we stayed, lots to see and do. We also went with a pretty big group from our running club, so we got to socialize with them Friday evening when we all met for a pre-race “carb loading” dinner. We also hooked up with some of them post-race and then for dinner Saturday night. Plenty of opportunities for fun…totally my kind of trip! Now, for the not so fun part…the running.

Hills…what can I say about them? Character builders? Leg killers? Seriously, they should never put them where people run. Obviously, I was in denial about the hills and I had no clue the impact they would have on me being that they were so early in the race (first 3 miles uphill) but there they were and there I was, completely unprepared, undertrained and poorly fueled. So, what’s a girl to do but get her ass over them? Needless to say, I had virtually no legs by mile four and seriously thought I might have my first DNF. I mean, I felt like I hit a brick wall. When I say no legs, I mean NO LEGS!!! At this point, I begged the girl (Kim) I was running with to leave me behind and not because she continued to bitch at me to eat, shut-up, and run either. No, truly I needed that and deserved it. (I might have been yelling back at her too. ;)

The conversation went something like so:
Me - This s**t is crazy. Why am I doing this s**t. I’m never freaking running again!”
Kim - “Yes you are. Shut up and run. You need to eat something.”
Me - ”No I don’t. Leave me. I suck.”
Kim – “No, shut up and run. Also, you really need to fuel.”
Me – “No, I hate to eat when I’m running. (Although, I like it 100% of the time when not running.)
Kim – “Shut-up and run.”

During our little squabble, a random runner guy approached us and jumped into our mix of craziness. He agreed with Kim that I needed fuel and then he thrust a GU into my hand and took off. Not wanting to look a running GU-gift-horse in the mouth, I ate the GU.

Flash forward to mile 8 (trust me, we don’t want to revisit 4 thru 7) and I’ve suddenly got my legs back! Yeah!! Right before our run through Churchill Downs, they magically came back. (Nobody is putting this lame horse down today!!!) At this point, Kim has to pee and we veer off to the restrooms in the infield of the track. (Lovely, compared to the port-o-johns, that is.) This took us 90 seconds, but we were so far off our time by now, it really didn’t matter.

Once we got out of CD, we ran about another half mile to the next water stop and then we lost one another. I waited for a while, but assumed she was ahead of me. Eventually, I took off rather relieved thinking she might make up the time and finish under 2:30, which I know she really wanted to do. (She finished in 2:30:55. ;-) So, now I was on my own and trying to pick it up a bit. There were a few more rolling hills, but nothing like the 3 mile climb from hell at the front of the race. Finally, I felt confident I would finish. At one point, I thought I might make the 2:30 cut off, but alas, my time on my Garmin was wrong. According to Garmin, I finished in 2:33, but according to my chip, it was 2:36:15. Sigh…Garmin was on auto-pause and must have turned off during some tunnels and the pee break. (See, it’s not me, it’s the equipment.)

So, what’s the take away from this race? Well, I did finish uninjured, which was my one and only goal. (Some issues with the hip, but minor. No knee pain!)

1. Hills Kill!! (It’s not just crack that kills kids.)
2. When training for a hilly course, don’t underestimate the importance of hill training. (Thank you Mrs. Obvious.)
3. I need to learn to tolerate food when I run over 8 miles.
4. I need to do tempo runs or long runs at race pace at some point in my training. Unfortunately, I have zero ability to pick up the pace say 90 seconds per mile as the wise and scholarly people who write running books say you can do because of the race day “adrenaline rush”. Apparently, my adrenaline rush is more like an adrenaline sputter.
5. There is nothing glamorous about running around a horse track on a hot day. ;-)

In terms of what is ahead for me - I’m still targeting a half marathon PR in the fall. I’ll be selecting a late fall race (probably November) on a flat course within driving distance from my house, but probably not in Ohio. Also, I think I’m going to forget about the mileage and focus more on the quality of my runs. I’m leaning toward the FIRST Half Marathon Plan, which calls for a tempo run, speed run, long run, and then 2 cross training sessions per week. (Lizzy – you use this one right?) For the cross, I’ll probably bike. I also want to get 2 core strength sessions in there somewhere. Yikes, I’ll be busy! Kind of how I like it though.

Finally, several of you have asked for an update on the Newtons, so that will be the topic of my next post. I promise!

Race Results - Kentucky Derby Mini Marathon

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:46:00 +0000

Here are my results from the Kentucky Derby Half Marathon. I've also posted a couple of pics of our group and I'll try to get to a full race report later in the week. Basically, it was a brutal course and I'm just happy to have finished. I've done the analysis and know what I need to do better next time, so more on that later.

Bill, Deb, Scott (They did their first marathon!)

Bill and his girls! Kim, Brenda & Jonna
(Bill did the full, the girls and I the half...which is why they are in the beer already...lol.)

Ok, blogger is making me mad! Anyone know how to fix this craziness?

Our Running Club group. We had several people participating in both the half and full.

Bill back left, me front left.

One Tired Cat

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:04:00 +0000

This is how I feel. It has been one crazy week around here. My daughter had a softball game Monday night, Tuesday night, and tonight. Last night was my only "free" night and I ended up running said daughter around town while trying to make a list for this weekend, pack for the race, and get to bed early enough to get up and run a few miles this morning.

Tomorrow morning we leave for the Kentucky Derby Marathon/Mini-marathon in Louisville. It's been so long since my last race, I had forgotten what it feels like to TOTALLY FREAK OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!! Today, for the first time mind you, I finally looked at the elevation map. That, my friends, was a BIG mistake. Then, as if I was not already hanging from the ledge, I checked the weather. Looks like some crazy storm is blowing through. Seriously? This race in Kentucky, assuming I survive it (I did mention hills right?), will be my 6th half marathon. Of the 5 I've completed, a total of 1 had decent weather. That's right, 1 friggin race. The rest have been freezing rain, pouring rain, heat, and/or wind. (I know I should not be complaining, considering what happened to our dear friend Petra. Big love for you girl and the way you've handled the Boston disappointment.)

Elevation Chart...I'm afraid ...seriously afraid.

Hill training...ummmm...didn't do any.

As usual, I will post a race report highlighting the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Wish me luck in Kentucky!!! I might try the bourbon...depends on my pain level.

And...The Biggest Loser Is?

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:19:00 +0000

Monday was the final weigh-in for our 12 week "Biggest Loser" contest at work. We had 10 participants in all. (We're a small company with less than 30 people.) As a group, we managed to lose...drum roll please...177 pounds!!!!!! Even I can do this math - that's 17.7 pounds average weight loss per person. I would say that's impressive. The winner lost over 14 % and collected $300 bucks, a total of 5 people lost over 10%, 4 people lost between 5% and 10%, and 1 person lost less than 5%. I managed to squeak out 6.8 percent, which I'm very happy with since I did start out with less to lose. (Sadly, much of this weight I gained over Christmas and on my cruise in January because I made a complete gluttonous pig of myself.)

I have purchased the book Shirley recommended (Racing Weight by Matt Fitzgerald) and I've calculated what he says should be my "ideal endurance running weight". It's actually not as bad as I thought it would be. Basically, it's 8-10 pounds lighter than I am now, which I think is doable. So, after Kentucky I'll have about 16 weeks before I start training for my fall half and my focus is going to be on losing the rest of the weight prior to my next training cycle. This should put me in the ideal position for a PR in the half marathon distance in the fall! That's the plan anyway.

One thing about this book that I found fascinating is he has a chapter that gives you the daily menu of such athletes as Ryan Hall, Scott Jurek, Tera Moody, to name just a few. Two things that struck me immediately were:
A) They don't eat nearly as many carbs as I thought they would.
B) They don't eat as much as I thought they would.
In fact, I'm going to say I train WAY less and eat more...yikes. So, that was an eye opener.

Here's an example...and I'm using Tera since I have more female readers. ;-)

Workout 1 (AM)
Pre-Workout: Oatmeal with cinnamon, decaf coffee with soy milk, water
Post-Workout: Bread with peanut butter, grapefruit, water

Breakfast
Scrambled eggs with bell peppers & mushrooms, herbal tea

Morning Snack
Almonds
Liquid Iron Supplement
Emergen-C Vitamin drink

Lunch
Plain Turkey Sandwich, water

Workout 2 (Afternoon)
Pre-Workout: Powerbar Endurance Drink
Post-Workout: Pear

Dinner
Steak
Baked Potato
Steamed Asparagus
Glass of red wine

Evening Snack
Dark Chocolate

So, tell me what you guys think? Do any of you follow a similar diet? Just curious, so do share! (I'm liking the dark chocolate and wine. Anti-inflammatory?)

UPDATE!!! Wow, I can't believe it, but Tera herself stopped by to offer some clarification on the above menu. I've copy/pasted her comment below.

"hi this is tera. my mom sent me the link to this blog she got on google alert. I think my diet sample is a bit misleading because it doesn't really contain quantity. for example I usually eat at least 2-3 powerbars per day. and on the days I dont have double workouts (which is most days) I actually snack a lot more during the afternoon since I don't have to worry about getting a stomach ache on my 2nd run."

Ah, wow...ok...I still can't believe it. I feel like I've been visited by Gandhi or something. Tera, thanks again and it sounds like you have a great mom who is looking out for you!! Happy Running Girl!!!!
(Gee...I hope she didn't look at my race times...lol.)

Everything In Moderation?

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 10:15:00 +0000

Had anyone told me a few years ago that I would be getting up at 5:30AM on a Saturday so I had time to digest breakfast before a 7:00AM 12 miler, I would have called them a damn liar! Yet, here I am.

It's at times like this that I think of the Lance Armstrongs and Paula Radcliffs of the world and I try to imagine the kind of commitment and sacrifice it takes to be them.

My husband likes to say that I'm an extremist because when I throw myself into something I do tend to get a little obsessed. But I wonder, does anyone really get anywhere in life with a moderate amount of passion for a sport, a belief, a dream? I don't think it was moderation that got young Michael Phelps to the pool every morning and evening for years so he could win all of those Olympic medals. I've read Lance's book "It's Not About the Bike, My Journey Back to Life." (awesome book btw) and trust me, he's no moderate when it comes to his passion for cycling and had he fought cancer in "moderation" he'd probably be dead right now.

The saying "everything is moderation" is just a load of crap. Sure, some things require moderation, but everything?

What do you say we screw moderation and go find our passion?!?! That's really what it's all about, isn't it?

Sometimes you're the dog, sometimes you're the tree

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 23:52:00 +0000

This is one of my mom's favorite sayings.

I love being the dog. I always picture myself as a bulldog...very confident, very full of myself...with a strong sturdy stride. Unfortunately, Saturday's run had me feeling like the tree and I started thinking, I've never pictured myself as the tree (although I've been the tree plenty of times), so I'm not sure what kind of tree I am, other than one that has just been urinated on.

(Warning, this post if complete rambling. ;-)

Sigh...what is it about running that keeps me coming back for more punishment even when I'm realistic enough to know that I have absolutely no natural talent for this sport? I've been thinking about that a lot lately. I'm not sure I know the answer. Maybe I never will. Seems like all of the really BIG questions in life tend to remain a mystery.

All I know is this - I really want to be a runner and I want to be good at it. Don't get me wrong, I don't need to finish first in a race. That would be, well, impossible in most cases. What I do want, what I dream of, is being better than my current self. I tend to think of it as Melisa 3.0 - a stronger, leaner, fitter, faster, more confident me. I want to tap out my own potential, but I feel like it's a journey that has been three steps forward, two steps back.

The funny thing is, I think I know what I need to do...I just need to figure out what is stopping me? Laziness? Fear? Some sort of self-sabotage? Complacency?

Hmmm, I'm not sure. For whatever reason, I continue to "half-ass" things when I know the results that brings and they're not the results I want.

I really hope 2010 will be the year I go from "Half-Ass Melisa" to "Melisa 3.0". Although, I know hope alone will not get me there. It's going to take commitment, passion, sacrifice, perseverance, possibly a miracle?

What next?

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 11:03:00 +0000

Quick recap of my week. Monday night I ran 4 miles at a 10:35 pace. It felt pretty good. Wednesday I was going to run, but since my knees and hip felt a little sore, I decided against it. Thursday I did 4.5 at about a 10:38 pace. (This run was a character builder as it was 20-30 mph winds and freezing rain/snow. It is March, right?) I also threw in a little hill training this week. (Technically, it was one little hill, but still counts. ;-) This morning is a 10 miler. I'm shooting for a similar pace. I'll probably cut back on the length of the walk breaks.

This week I've given a lot of thought to what's next. I have the Kentucky Derby half April 24th. Assuming I can train for and finish uninjured (that's the only goal for this one), I've started to formulate a plan for summer.

Here it is, let me know what you think.
1. Maintain a weekly mileage of 25-30 mpw (Should be in the mid-20s soon.)
2. Run at least one 5K per month as a speed workout
3. Continue to drop some weight (more on this in a moment)
4. Keep up with yoga and core strength training, maybe throw in a day a week of biking
5. Early August, begin a 12 week training sched for a late fall half marathon
6. Find a local flat half marathon and set a new PR (Old PR is 2:17)

I have a friend (Annie the Energizer Bunny) who I think would pace me in the fall half. Her PR is around 2:02. I would love to shoot for a sub 2:10. I really think IF I do all of the above and really stay focused, I can do it. A fast half would give me confidence going into another full, which I would like to do next January (someplace warm and/or tropical ;-).

As for the weight, it's slowly been going down (5.6% since mid-January) although I seem to have hit my typical set point, that number that I can't get under. Here's my question though, does anyone know what a good weight would be for a female runner, 5'5" tall who wants to be faster?

Ok, time to get dressed and hit the bricks. Wish me luck with the 10 miler...hope it's not windy....grrrrrr.

Stretching the IT Band

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:39:00 +0000

This video shows all of my favorite IT Band stretches. Good stuff!
(FYI - If you've not used one before, the foam roller hurts like a mother. ;-)

I Heart Five Hour Energy!!

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 14:38:00 +0000

Has anyone used this stuff on their long runs? Love it! I don't know if it's the caffeine or what, but I seem to breath better and run much stronger when I drink half a dose before a long run. (I drink the other half after.) Normally, I don't do any kind of energy stuff because I tend to get the jitters from it, but this one doesn't seem to bother me. Still, if you've heard bad things, let me know. Looks like it's mostly vitamins and caffeine, but I don't want to do anything that's unhealthy.

This week I've logged 20 miles! I did two runs in the Newtons. Some advice - probably best to listen to their warning to break them in slowly. My 4 miler was great, but at the end of the 6 miler, they started to hurt my front foot/metatarsals. Still, no pain after. I'm still a fan...and I do think they might be making me faster? It's either the shoes, the form changes, or a combination. My 4 miler was at a 10:10 pace and for me, it's been a long time since I held that pace for 4 miles. Today's 8 miler was a 10:54 pace. Overall, I'm thrilled with how things are going.

I'm off to an indoor water park with my sister, nephew, and 3 of his junior high friends. Keep me in your prayers!

Update on the Newtons

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 01:48:00 +0000

Ok, quick post on the shoes. Did a 4 miler in them last night. Today, no pain in my achilles, calves, or knees. All systems go!! Tomorrow I'm doing 6 in my Asics, then 4 Thursday in the Newtons.

First impressions...

WOW...these shoes are different. Although I love running in them, they are not made for walking and are, in fact, difficult to walk in due to the front raised lugs. They're incredibly comfortable, very light and breathable, and I have no complaints with the overall fit and feel. (Oh yea, had to get them in a 1/2 size bigger than the Asics.) Also, it's pretty impossible to heel strike in this shoe. Definitely, they helped me hold form and that's what I'm going for, so I'm happy.

Interesting Video: Running Form and Newton Construction

If Lovin a Shoe is Wrong, I Don't Wanna Be Right

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 21:56:00 +0000

After doing some research, I selected this, the Newton Lady Isaac as my new running shoe of choice.

Isn't she a beauty? This thing is feather light (8.9 ounces) and the most comfortable shoe I've ever put on my foot. However, it is definitely a different feel - by design.

To quote the website:
The Isaac is a neutral guidance trainer designed for runners committed to improving their running form to the more efficient midfoot/forefoot running style.

Here's how they do it...these midfoot lugs. Again, from the website:

The genius behind the Newton running shoes is the patented Action/Reaction Technology™. When using the ultra-efficient Land-Lever-Lift midfoot or forefoot running gait, the technology absorbs and then returns your own energy back to you. It's not fancy technospeak, and it's no gimmick. It's a revolutionary way of building a running shoe based on Sir Isaac Newton's third law of motion - "For every ACTION, there is an equal and opposite REACTION." Loosely translated, it means you get a boost of forward energy with every single stride you take.

I realize this could be slick marketing hype, but the reviews I read on these shoes (from real runners) were so positive, I decided to give them a go. If they don't work, I guess it's back to the drawing board.

So, I'll be doing a shoe review of my own. If these shoes, coupled with my running form modifications, allow me to run pain free, call me a ChiRunning Newton girl! Either way, I'll keep it real for you, my awesome readers. (Translation: If they suck, you'll get to hear me whine, complain, and lament the money I foolishly shelled out for them.)

In other news, I ran my first 8 miler in over a year! I've been on a serious high all day!!! You would think I won the damn lotto. Also, 17 miles for the week!!!

Midweek Update

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 02:07:00 +0000

Saturday was my long run and although I wanted to do 8 miles, I settled for 7. The run just was not feeling so good and my longest run thus far was 6, so 7 seemed to make sense.

Running club prez (Dave) eating what he described as his "ethnically confused" pizza after Saturday's run. The pizza was sauerkraut and brauts.

Monday night I ran in my sub with Kim (running pal who talks a lot ;-). We managed to get in 5 miles. Although my knees felt fine and I tried to stay in "ChiRunning" form, I must admit this form changing thing is not easy. Obviously, it's not an overnight fix (darn it, I love those) and will take a lot of time and persistance. My knees feel pretty good today, but not entirely pain-free. The run felt aweful though. I realized why at about the half mile mark. I seem to be leaning a lot and as Danny says, "The lean is your gas pedal." Well, my pedal had me running 9 minute miles, which I normally do not do so my lungs were burning and I had to do more walk breaks. (Side note - Folks, I'm in seriously sucky shape here. This running thing, it's hard.)

Tomorrow is a 5 miler, followed by an 8 miler Saturday. So far, I'm sticking with 3 days of running per week, 2 days of yoga, 1 day of weights. I'm really itching to go to 4 days of running though. Is it too soon?

I <3 running!!!! (Even though I suck and it feels bad.)

ChiRunning Update #2: The Saga Continues...

noreply@blogger.com (Irish Blue) — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 13:06:00 +0000

Sadly, I've not had time to read much more of the book this week. The first week of the month is always a busy one for me as the two clubs I'm a member of both have their monthly meetings (running club and VFW), so that takes up two entire evenings. Top it off with the fact that our high school boys and girls basketball teams are both ranked #1 in the state & it's "March Madness" (GO LIBERTY BENTON EAGLES!!!) and you've got one busy week! However, I did receive the DVD from Petra and I'm hoping to watch it this weekend. Also, I did two runs and attempted to bring my Chi moves...one outside, one treadmill. I felt great after the outside run, but the whole time I was on the treadmill, I just felt as if I was struggling to get the form right. The next day, I woke up with a sore right knee. I was going to run that night, but backed it off and went to yoga class instead. The knee is feeling much better and I have an 8-miler this morning. (This is my first 8 miler since last February, so I'm excited!)

Chi Goals for the Week:
- Watch DVD
- Read some more of the book
- Look for some flat shoes (Per Jon, this helps with a mid-foot strike and I can see where that would be the case, so I need to do some research.)
- Check for another class date (The original March date didn't work for me when I realized I have a race next weekend...which is a class date. However, the instructor in Columbus tells me he'll be doing more classes this spring.)

It's suppose to be sunny and in the 40s here for the next several days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Perfect running weather.

Another video from Danny where he talks about the hip rotation (NOTE: Says 7 minutes, but it's only about 3:30):

Elvis had nothing on our Danny. ;-)