The Booze Hounds Inc. Running Team

Missed Opportunity or Weather Delay?

2012-01-30T11:08:00.001-05:00

Lesson learned from the weekend: Get out early to run, and you won't have to worry about it later on a busy day.

Like two weeks ago, my Sunday became too busy to fit in my planned three-miler. Yes, I know, lame, but whatever. Having slept in and gone for breakfast instead of a run in the morning, the day quickly got away from me, with installing a new ceiling fan in the dining room, celebrating my mother-in-law's birthday, and finally finishing an article late last night.

As it turns out though, I may have caught a break if I decide to make up for the missed run tonight, as the temperature is supposed to be in the 40s. Last night, Northeast Ohio was under a wind advisory with the temperature dropping into high teens and a fresh coat of snow falling over the region. Yes, tonight seems like a much better time to run.

However, I should note how well Saturday's run turned out, with me grabbing a banana on my way out the door to some trails first thing in the morning. At four miles, sadly, it was my longest run of the year, but after I finished Mrs. Viper and I had the whole day ahead of us.

This week's goals are a repeat of last week, with four runs planned for 13 miles, but I hope to tack on three extra miles to make up for my missed run yesterday. Today and tomorrow are going to be perfect for running, weatherwise.

I forgot to weigh in this morning, but I'll check in tomorrow to see how I did with my weekend. With pierogies and birthday cake, I'm guessing not so great.

Flashback Friday: Early to Rise

2012-01-27T07:39:00.000-05:00

My eyes opened at 6 a.m., according to the alarm clock, which means I actually woke up around 5:47. Lying there in bed, staring at the ceiling, I had the sudden urge to plank. I let the notion marinate for about 20 minutes so as to turn off my alarm after it sounded.

[Drunkard's note: You can tell I woke up early by looking at the time stamp of this post.]

Normally, I would hit snooze for another 90 minutes before awaking in a rush to get ready for work. Instead, I decided to sweat this morning with a 30-minute strength workout, which I've long vowed to complete on an off-running day. This was that day.

First was Jamoosh's combo plank routine, follow by three rounds of chair dips (10 reps), push-ups (10 reps), and 10-pound curls (20 reps), and finally back to the abs with two rounds of crunches (10 reps) and bicycle sit-ups (20 reps). I tried to do some 100-ups, but my body fizzled out after only about 25 reps.

Between my three-miler last night and this morning's workout, my weight finally dipped back down below 175 since Monday's ballooning.

Let's see if I can avoid another gorgefest this weekend. The only problem is there's a fresh growler of Irish Setter Red from Thirsty Thursday. Somebody's going to have to drink that.

Back Talk
Wherein we go a little further back for some smack talk

Ironman Kevin thinks shoes are the same as barefoot in the snow: "Time for you to man up. It was 14* here with blowing snow and I saw the distinct footprints of Vibrams on the running path today."

Answer: My Altras are just as minimal as Vibrams. I'm not impressed. But my shoes are not the same as going barefoot, nor are Vibrams. I'm just too much of wuss, whereas others are not.

B. Jarosz thinks I should stop worrying about my weight: "[M]aybe kill your bathroom scale and start measuring your waistline? Muscle is more dense than fat, so picking back up on the exercise is more important than what the scale says on any given day.

Answer: Good advice. I measured around my love handles and got around 34 inches with my Craftsman tape measure, but somehow I don't think it was the most accurate of measurements.

Happy Hour is nearly upon us, teammates! Have a finely brewed weekend. Run well and drink well. Cheers!

Pushing the Pace

2012-01-25T09:54:00.000-05:00

After the first few steps, it was if someone had hit the "GO!" button. My feet lightly glided over the sidewalks, quietly lifting, lifting, lifting, and lifting away.

The long slow hill up Market to home only slightly impeded my speed. The final result was my second fastest run of the year.

With a 9:30 per mile pace, I'm not setting any land speed records any time soon, but it's marked improvement for the year. Most of my runs are still around 10 minutes per mile, except for Tuesdays, which seem to be my fast day.

Looking back over the past month, three of my four fastest runs were done on a Tuesday. My average Tuesday pace is 9:34 per mile. For all the other days, it's 10:52. Granted those other days also include my trail runs, which average 12:07 per mile.

OK, enough math.

Upon returning home, I conducted a short strength workout, with planks, crunches, bicycle-kick sit-ups, and 20- and 10-pound curls. I still have yet to complete these exercises on a non-run day, but I really mean to, I swear.

Three more runs to go this week. Can I get another one under a 10-minute mile pace?

Weighing the Good and Bad

2012-01-23T10:32:00.000-05:00

You take the good, you take the bad, you take them both, and there you have the facts of life.

Last week's running goals were a success, despite a make-up run from the week before that didn't happen, but I stayed true to the plan, braving heavy winds and a snow storm to get my four runs finished. My 12 miles felt good, and it's about time to start adding mileage.

The bad was what number showed up on the scale this morning. My weight had hovered around 174 and 175 pounds the previous week, but today it jumped back up to 179. The yo-yo is in effect.

I've been diligent about tracking my meals, but my food choices haven't been awesome. I gorged myself on sausage lasagna and garlic bread last night, and then had some candy for dessert. Not to mention the half gallon of Left Hand Fade to Black I consumed this weekend. But that was research.

My problem is that there is always that one day each week where I just go crazy eating anything and everything. That has to change if I want to get back down to "fighting weight."

This week's goals are another four runs, but adding a mile to one of my weekend runs for a total of 13 miles. Soon, I'll actually be able to say I have a "long run" on my schedule.

Good Living
In case you missed it over the weekend, Akron has been ranked No. 3 among "beer cities" by the Livability website. Looks like I'm going to have go get another growler filled this week to celebrate.

A Good Place to Live Drink

2012-01-21T12:29:00.000-05:00

The job market stinks. The winters crush your soul. The closest thing to a beach is the Lake Erie shore. Chrissie Hynde, our vegetarian dining savior, had to close her restaurant. But darn it, we still have good beer!

Livability, and online resource dedicated to good places to live, has ranked Akron, Ohio, as the third best place to live for beer drinkers in its "Top 10 Beer Cities" list. Thanks to three local breweries and our pubs with giant selections, Akron is one of the greatest places to drown your sorrows.

If your tears happen to fall into too many beers, we can help with that too! Aside from being the Rubber Capital of the World, Akron is also where Alcoholics Anonymous was founded. You can go from our local beer festival, Blues & Brews, to a local AA chapter in just 12 steps.

The article doesn't even mention the number of locations where you can buy a growler and take home draft beer to enjoy by the half-gallon. Huzzah!

Flashback Friday: Get the Drift

2012-01-20T10:12:00.000-05:00

Another snow storm tucked Northeast Ohio under a blanket of fresh snow yesterday. After shoveling the sidewalk and driveway after work, I headed out for a cold and blustery three-miler.

I was lucky in that I ran into the wind on my way out, fighting through heavy wind gusts pushing me back and drifting snow biting my ankles, and stopping by a friend's house so he could call me "crazy" for being out there while he cleared his driveway with a snowblower. It must have been the shorts I was wearing.

As I made the turn from Exchange to Market, hugging close to the Einstein Bros. Bagels and Robeks building on the corner, the wind seemed to cease. All I had to deal with was the climb back up the slowrising hill to home.

This was the first real snow action my Altras have endured, and I was very happy with the footing on such precarious terrain. With the zero-dropped sole, my feet landed securely each step, allowing me to employ my preternatural sense of balance.

I was surprised to find my socks completely drenched when I returned home, as my feet never felt cold. I was also surprised to see that my pace wasn't all that slow, clocking in at 10:22 per mile, and that includes my little detour to say hello to my friend.

Afterward, I conducted a short strength workout, with dumbbell curls, crunches, dips, planks, push-ups, and bicycle sit-ups.

So far, a good week, but I have two more runs yet to complete this weekend, and I don't want to miss again like I did last weekend.

Back Talk
Wherein we make excuses and talk about the weather.

Carolina John gives me the business about missing that run: "No time for three miles? c'mon."

Answer: Agreed, pretty lame. I could have run that evening, but I decided to drink beer instead.

Nitmos thinks the weather blows more in Ohio and wonders about my feet: "Sometimes it sounds worse there than it does up here. How many barefoot runs so far? Stay true to the cause."

Answer: Our proximity to Lake Erie makes the weather schizophrenic. And I'm on barefoot hiatus until Spring.

Look who's still alive! Razz blows some hot air: "[T]he wind sucks. See what I did there? I could've said that it blows, but I went the other way."

Answer: You are very clever.

Happy Hour is nearly upon us, teammates! Have a finely brewed weekend. Run well and drink well. Cheers!

Blow Wind Blow

2012-01-18T12:21:00.002-05:00

Only after my three-miler last night did I realize Northeast Ohio was under a storm advisory from the National Weather Service. The wind blew heavy gusts that knocked me sideways. My legs struggled to keep me on course.

The storm rolled through just before I set out on my run. As I was getting ready, rain pounded the roof, but the rain didn't last. Instead, those gales added adventure to my neighborhood route.

The wind was especially strong from the west, providing a tough headwind for the final stretch.

Despite the challenging weather, I still managed to finish with a sub-10-minute mile pace for just the third time all year.

After topping out in the mid-50s yesterday, the temperature is back down into the 20s today with a new coat of snow on the ground.

This week's forecast doesn't offer much in the way of good news, but what should I expect from the North Coast in the middle of January?

A Missed Run

2012-01-16T09:55:00.000-05:00

There will be no problem making up the mileage from yesterday's planned run, but it was the first time this year I've missed the mark on my weekly running goals.

Between visiting family and hosting some friends at the house to play some old-time tunes, there was no room to fit a three-miler.

I meant to run while visiting Mrs. Viper's family in the morning, but I forgot to grab the bag of running clothes I packed when we left home and didn't realize it until we were about to get off the highway.

No matter. Today's more temperate weather will be a perfect time to substitute for that missed time.

On top of today's make-up run, this week's pre-training plan again calls for four runs and 12 miles. I'll start building mileage starting next week, so it's important that this foundation is secure.

My weight this morning was 175.9 pounds, according to our scale. That's about four pounds down from the start of the year, but I'm still too high on the Body Mass Index (BMI), which I know is a flawed measurement but one I find to be a good benchmark.

Saturday's trail run was adventurous, as the latest snow storm made some of the terrain slick with ice, while the recent warm-up made other parts squishy with mud. Afterward, I completed my almost habitual strength workout.

I'm starting to feel fitter, and I'm primed for a solid winter running season.

Flashback Friday: True Test of Will

2012-01-13T16:22:00.000-05:00

No matter how nice the weather has been in Northeast Ohio so far this winter, there's no way in hell it's not going to get terribly cold and snowy before too long.

This morning, I woke up to a fresh layer of snow (after solid rain for the past two days) and temperatures in the teens. Winter will bugger us sooner or later. That is a fact. There are no mild winters on the North Coast.

My running has remained strong. I've completed all my scheduled runs so far this week, fitting in a rainy run last night before the temperatures dropped 25 degrees in the span of a few hours. My pre-training plan has two runs slated for this weekend.

The weather forecast shows more snow Saturday and highs in the mid-20s for both days. These conditions test the wills of any outdoor enthusiast. You have to want it enough to be outside this time of year, and that's precisely why I started running six years ago. Bring it on.

Back Talk
Wherein deride the unpopularity of our favorite events

Jess agrees that I should take advantage of my racing opportunities: "I too feel like the 10K is a neglected road race. I think the HM blew up in popularity the past 10 years, so races that used to be 10ks transformed themselves into HMs. Too bad. I like a good 10k!"

Answer: The middle distances are sorely lacking. Around me, the 10-kilometer races have become 5-kilometer events. It seems there is nothing between 5-kilometers and a half marathon. I call shenanigans on that.

Happy Hour is nearly upon us, teammates! Have a finely brewed weekend. Run well and drink well. Cheers!

Another Fastest Three

2012-01-11T10:13:00.001-05:00

These three-milers are starting to go like clockwork. Last night, I felt strong and pushed the pace. The result was a new fastest run of the year at 9:29 per mile.

Speed is secondary to my goal of just getting back to a regular running schedule, but it's nice to see those little improvements when I stop my watch. It means my legs are getting stronger, my lungs are getting deeper, and my feet are getting quicker.

A sub-9:30 pace isn't exactly warp speed, but it's a start in this year of starting over. January is all about recording baseline metrics, setting the foundation for a solid year of running.

After completing my new favorite neighborhood circuit, I again conducted my new strength workout, which consisted of dumbbell curls, push-ups, crunches, bicycle-kick sit-ups, chair dips, and I added planks in accordance with Jamoosh's Hard Core Club.

One of these days, I need to complete this workout on an off day for running, but it works for now.

Next up this week are three more runs for nine miles, one of which being a trail run. The weather forecast remains positive, although we're expecting some rain and 20-degree dip in temperature later this week. But along with Nitmos, I continue to go pantsless this winter. Thankfully, my ThermaJock will protect my junk from the coming chill.

Akron Marathon Changes
Entering its 10th year, the Akron Marathon has announced some changes to its tough course to make for a faster half marathon and a flatter full marathon, as well as a new website. Looking over the new course, the biggest changes are at Miles 11, 18 and 21.

Where the course descends into the Cuyahoga River valley and enters the Towpath, the new route takes a roundabout way for a more gradual downhill, rather than the previous quad-buster down Howard Street.

In Sand Run, the course will no longer go all the way through the park to Revere Road and will turn earlier at Sand Run Road (from Sand Run Parkway), which includes a much steeper but shorter hill.

And finally, to make up for some lost mileage, the course now makes a short out-and-back on Castle Boulevard before heading toward the Bastard Garman Hill.

I'm least excited about that final change, but I'm mostly curious to see if the changes will really be noticeable. The Akron Marathon still covers some serious elevation.

[Drunkard's note: Post updated at 10:44 a.m. to include marathon news.]

Taking Advantage

2012-01-10T12:22:00.000-05:00

Two environmental circumstances have aligned for my benefit so far this month. After a brutal first couple days of January, the weather has delivered unseasonably warm temperatures and clear skies. Couple that with a noticeable increase in evening daylight, and you begin to see why I've found early success with my running this year.

During this usually foul-weathered time of year, you have to take advantage of every opportunity to get outside in Northeast Ohio. You never know when a snow storm will fly across Lake Erie to deliver the next winter of discontent.

My race schedule remains sparse, with only the Buckeye Half and Akron Marathon on my list for 2012, but I've started to investigate other options. I haven't run a new race since 2009, when I ran the Shamrock 15-kilometer event.

Lately, I've been itching to run a trail race, and the new Dirty Trail Series looks like a good possibility to get some offroad competition experience. The March 24 Dirty Dash looks like a prime opportunity for me to race a distance I love and feel is neglected. The $25 entry fee also seems right for this bargain basement runner.

By the race date, I'll be up to eight miles on my long runs with about 17 miles per week, which isn't optimal for a 10-kilometer race, but it'll be nice to get out there and run hard. I'll need to register by Feb. 29 to get the early-bird special. We'll see how it goes.

Finding a Groove

2012-01-09T09:08:00.000-05:00

Despite needing to run four consecutive days, my first week of 2012 was a running success. My pre-training plan called for four runs and a total of 12 miles. After yesterday's three-miler around the neighborhood, I've now surpassed my total mileage for all of December.

On top of reaching my mileage goal, I even showed some signs of getting faster, breaking the 10-minute mile pace for the first time in what seems like ages.

However, this morning's weigh-in showed only a slight improvement from this year's starting heft. In time, though, I know that will start to edge down. It seems I lose weight with three steps forward and then two steps back.

Saturday, I returned to trails for a muddy three-miler along the Mingo Trail at Sand Run. I only had to walk two uphills, but I got passed several times, twice by the same guy. My goal until the daylight returns is to get at least one trail run per week.

This week's goals mirror last week, with four runs for 12 miles. This is the habit-forming phase of my pre-training plan to get myself back into the routine of running. By the end of the month, I'll start building base mileage.

Flashback Friday: Start Me Up

2012-01-06T14:04:00.000-05:00

After waiting out a snow storm and the coldest temperatures in the region so far this winter, I am now back on track with my pre-training running plan. In order for me to continue with this development, however, I'll need to run Saturday and Sunday.

Each run is only three miles, but my legs were feeling the strain of two consecutive days running during this morning's run. How's it going to feel after a third and fourth day in a row? I guess we'll find out.

The feeling of starting over remains strong. Three miles feels so much longer than it used to.

Meanwhile, I've started to see some results on the scale. My weight dropped a couple of pounds, but now I have to make sure I'm not just yo-yoing.

My strength training has remained consistent before and after my runs. I probably need to add a more solid workout on an off day, where I can do multiple sets of exercises without compromising my stamina. This morning, I started my run out of breath and never really got it under control.

No Back Talk today. I don't feel like it.

Happy Hour is nearly upon us, teammates. Have a finely brewed weekend. Run well and drink well. Cheers!

Like Starting Over

2012-01-05T09:59:00.001-05:00

Almost six years ago, I laced up a pair of Etonic cross trainers that were too tight, bundled up in sweatpants and a couple layers of long-sleeved shirts with a knit cap and went for my first run.

I was tired of doing nothing, and my weight had climbed too high. A few months earlier I had smoked my last cigarette, and I wanted to do something with my newfound lung capacity. That day I embarked on a journey to become more healthy.

After a year of new lows in running performance, my weight has once again crested that high water mark it had reached in 2006. I'm not normally obsessed with how much I weigh, but I've gained 20 pounds since 2009, when I sneaked under 160.

This morning, I asked Mrs. Viper to push me out of bed because I skipped my run last night and then gorged myself on tacos and snacks. The recent snow made the footing cause for a slow pace, but I may have found my recipe for not feeling terrible after a morning run: 100-ups.

Before heading out the door, I did 20 of the "minor exercise" followed by 20 of the "major exercise." I also did 20 repetitions of chair dips, 15 crunches and 50 bicycle sit-ups, but it was the 100-ups that I credit with getting my body ready to run.

Normally, my knees feel terrible after morning runs. The minor exercise got my legs warmed up, and the major got my blood flowing and my balance in order. Now, if I can actually get myself out the door routinely, I might be able to become a morning runner. Maybe ...

Following the run, I did 20 reps of 20-pound curls and a few more crunches before Dobson decided to interrupt my workout. He's notorious for attacking me when I'm doing any sort of exercise that involves lying down.

To get my weight back in order, I'm starting to log my food consumption. The only diet I believe works is eating less and moving more. I'm a bit behind on my pre-training running plan this week, but the next few days appear ripe with warmer weather and no snow in the forecast. Let's go!

Auld Lang Syne: Let It Go

2012-01-03T09:30:00.000-05:00

Welcome back, teammates. The New Year is here, and my final run of 2011 came on the final day of the year to wrap up my lowest monthly mileage.

Last year was a low mileage year all around, and I'm hoping that means my legs are fresh for a solid 2012.

My running in 2011 was full of "P-double-ewws," but personal worsts are there to show us how much we've improved. Right? Here's to 2012, and here's last month's statistical rundown:

Total Miles: 15 miles (5 runs)
Total Time: 2:43:30
Highest Weekly: 6 miles
Average Weekly: 3.75 miles
Average Pace: 10:54/mile
The Monthly Dif: -9 mile (24 miles in November)

I finished 2011 with 532 miles, my lowest total since 2006, my first year running. I also finished with 97 of those miles being run barefoot, about 18 percent of my total, which is about the only statistical category where I saw an increase all year. But let's not dwell on the year now gone.

One of my goals for this season was no Holiday Heft. I weighed in after my New Year run at 178 pounds, a good 6 to 8 pounds more than my last weigh in. I guess I can add weight loss to my list of goals for 2012.

This morning, I woke up early so I could shovel snow for the first time since moving to the house. Having lived in apartments for the past 14 years, I haven't really been responsible for snow removal since I lived with my parents.

Of course, there would be times when I had to shovel a sidewalk here and there or unbury my car to leave for work, but those were scant occurrences.

I cleared the front sidewalks and the driveway apron, and then added another 10 minutes of core and strength workouts to start my day. A quick set each of 100-Ups, 20-pound curls, crunches, bicycle sit-ups and chair dips got my heart beating. Tonight, I'll set out for a short run to begin my 2012 pre-training plan.

Happy New Year, Booze Hounds. Bring on a new year of better running.

Merrymaking

2011-12-28T10:04:00.000-05:00

Christmastime is here and gone. The holiday proved to be full of hustle and bustle, as Mrs. Viper and I burned copious amounts of fossil fuel to visit family.

While my time was weighted much more toward filling my cup with cheer since my last post, I did manage to get out for a run Monday evening.

My goal of avoiding any Holiday Heft this year must be accomplished during "the week between" if it's going to happen at all. My calves felt a nice ache yesterday, but I'm hoping to get out for another few miles after my only day at work this week.

That is, if my lovely wife doesn't force me to put up the other light fixture we got with our Lowe's and Home Depot gift cards. I'm happy to report we installed our kitchen light without any serious injuries to body or pride. Now, about the dining room ...

A quick recap of our holiday beverages:

Great Lakes Christmas Ale (Cleveland)
Thirsty Dog 12 Dogs of Christmas (Akron)
Elevator Brewing Christmas Ale (Columbus)
Corsendonk Christmas Ale (Belgium)
Anchor Christmas Ale (San Francisco)
Shiner Holiday Cheer (Texas)
Debonne Winery Holiday ~~Rogue~~ Rouge (Madison, Ohio)
Bear Pond Winery Holiday Bear (Cooperstown, N.Y.)

I think that's everything. Sometimes the memory gets a bit fuzzy recalling all our merrymaking. I hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas or Hanukkah or Kwanzaa or Solstice or whatever else you might celebrate this time of year. This will likely be the last post of 2011. I hope you have a happy and safe New Year. Cheers!

Flashback Friday: My Nightmare

2011-12-23T10:05:00.000-05:00

When the Viper was just a little viper, Mama Viper used to bake cookies for the Winter Celebration Season. She'd make all kinds: sugar cookies, chocolate crinkles, angel thumbprints, and others of which I don't remember the names. She would pick one Saturday and bake them all, listening to Christmas music as she did so.

My mother loves Christmas and has perhaps the largest collection of holiday music known to man, from LPs and cassettes to CDs, and eight-tracks too when those were around. When I was young, the family stereo had one of those cassette players with auto-reverse, which allowed an album to play continuously.

While my mother baked all those cookies, she tended to get stuck on one album and let it play and play and play on endless repeat. The album that seemed to get her cookie-baking groove on was Barbara Streisand's "A Christmas Album." And this is the song that put me over the edge ...

I have a distinct memory of waking up to this cocaine-induced, frantic, breathless spewing of "Jingle Bells," a wicked distortion of the classic holiday favorite. With the volume cranked to the right, the speakers would be blaring near their threshold, buzzing and thudding as if in pain.

Year after year this would happen. All my siblings and I now display a visible tick at the mere mention of Streisand, let alone this album. But this song, oh how I loathe it. And now, I share it with you.

Jolly Holidays, booze hounds! We'll catch you on the flip side, at least some time before the New Year dawns.

An extended Happy Hour is nearly upon us, teammates! Have a finely brewed weekend. Run well and drink well. Beware of the eggnog, for this batch may have too much brandy in it. Cheers!

A Trio of Tunes

2011-12-21T15:55:00.001-05:00

Today, for your listening pleasure, I've compiled the Viper's Top 3 Booze Houndsiest Christmas Songs. Yes, I love those old standards like Bing's "White Christmas," Nat singing "The Christmas Song," and Johnny Mathis on "Sleigh Ride." But my three favorite songs are more non-traditional. Except, of course, this first one ...

"Breaking Up Christmas" is an old-time fiddle tune from Southern Appalachia, which described the tradition of going from house to house to celebrate Christmastime. This is a high-test dance tune from yore. And you got to believe there was some moonshine involved. Last year, I was trying to learn to play this tune on my banjo. Here's Tommy Jarrell, a famed fiddler from Surry County, N.C.

"Fairytale of New York" by the Pogues is notable for being the prettiest song to mention "the drunk tank," "an old slut on junk," and "cheap lousy arse" in connection to Christmas. It's got hopes and dreams and love and then dashes all those sentiments to the gutter. What's not to like? Other than, say, Shane MacGowan's smile.

And finally, Tom Waits singing his "Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis" with "Silent Night" as a bookend. This song may seem like a funny tale of woe for the down and out, but it perfectly illustrates just how hard it can be to ask for help, which we all need from time to time. Remember, this is the season of giving. Cheers!

P.S., can you guess my least favorite Christmas song? I'll post it later this week.

That Goal Post

2011-12-20T12:19:00.000-05:00

We're just a dozen days away from that new year. This year's goals are but sewn up or tossed in the waste bin of time. As 2012 approaches, we might as well lay the groundwork for our expected triumphs and future failures. And because I can't think of anything else to write about.

It's time to pick some arbitrary numbers out of a discarded running shoe and assign them to my list of objectives for the coming year. Each year I compile a "Betterment for Viper" action plan, and running is always a significant portion of my "Health & Hobby" section. While these goals set the parameters for my running hopes in 2012, this post will build upon that framework.

My primary running goals for 2012, therefore, are thus:

Reach 1,000 miles for the year
Run a race barefoot
Purge excess running gear

1,000 miles: For the past two years, I've stated I'd like to average 20 miles per week. Seeing as I've never even hit 1,000 miles in a single year, I've decided to scale that big goal back to something at least close to achievable. Considering I won't break 600 miles this year, adding another 470 or more miles will be a big challenge in itself.

Barefoot race: I've steadily increased my barefoot running each year, and I think it's time to take the next step and enter competition without footwear. This will necessitate a secondary goal of continuing to increase my overall barefoot mileage. This race will likely be in the realm of three to eight miles, depending on what's out there.

Purge, purge, purge: There's nothing like moving to show you how much extra crap you have. Mrs. Viper and I compiled six large trash bags, two boxes and a few loose items that we donated to Goodwill. In addition, I finally pitched some old running shoes. I plan to eliminate the running stuff I don't use every spring and fall, whether it's trash or donation.

Wait, there's more: On top of these three simple goals, I have a few more objectives in terms of training, races, and general fitness. I've already started laying out my training plan for my two main target races for 2012: the Buckeye Half and the Akron Marathon.

Training: So far, my training plan for the Akron Marathon starts earlier, includes more mileage, and is designed to prepare my body for another run at a personal best. My training plan includes a base training phase, which I've always kind left to chance in the past, and now plan to use to get up to double-digit long runs before the real training begins, making my usual 16-week schedule now 20 weeks. The plan also includes four 20-milers and two 50-mile peak weeks.

Races: While 2011 was a year of being OK with not approaching new PRs, 2012 will be a year of seeking new heights. My primary plan includes training for two races at the same time. The half and full marathons are my targets, with a goal to break 1:44:15 at the Buckeye and 3:58:46 at Akron. My yet-to-be decided barefoot race will have no time goal. Any goals for additional races will be determined case by case.

Fitness: Despite my lack of running this year, my recent forays into strength training have been rewarding. While I have no specific goals, I would like to complete at least one "cross training" strength workout each week. And well, I guess that is a specific goal, isn't it?

And there you have it. I think these goals have a nice mix of specific and general goals to help guide my running in the next year. However, maybe the best goal is to carry over the lessons I've learned this year, such as learning to be OK with sub-awesome race performances, enjoying the community of runners, and all those happy horse piles.

Flashback Friday: About Those Goals

2011-12-16T11:12:00.000-05:00

With two weeks left in the year, it's a pretty safe bet that I won't be achieving any more goals this year. Yes, you've stumbled into one of those "looking back" posts. It is Flashback Friday, after all.

Way back on Jan. 3, I spelled out the things I hoped to achieve. Just so you don't have to go back and read that post again, here's what I wrote.

The Requisite Goal SectionAs we enter the new year, we all feel the need to make new goals. In the past, I've made grand and specific goals. This year, my goal is to be a "better" runner and teammate.
Enthusiasm: The Enthusiast is embarking on her first half marathon in May, and my goal is to help her get there. Notice, I didn't say "coach her there." Instead, I plan to be a dedicated training partner and fan. She has been my biggest fan, and now it's my turn.
Attitude: I've never been one of those annoying happy runners you see, and I likely never will be, but I'd like to be more upbeat about running. While I do obsess a bit about my stats, it really shouldn't be my focus when I'm a solid mid-pack runner. The reason why I run is not to gloat about numbers, but to feel good physically and mentally. It's time to focus on the joy of running.
Bare essentials: What was I just saying about numbers? Last year, I hit a point where I had nearly logged 10 percent of my total mileage without shoes. This year, I'd like to make that a reality by adding more barefoot runs to me routine. Of course, I'll wait until spring to doff my footwear.
Marathon: The Akron Marathon falls just two weeks after the Enthusiast and I get married. I probably would have passed on it this year if running it for the fifth consecutive year didn't mean I get VIP "Legacy" status. Last year, I finally broke the four-hour mark. I'll try that again.
Redux: I didn't even come close to doing it last year, but I'd still like to try to run 20 miles per week for the whole year. I've already failed at this goal once, won't cry about it if I do it again this year.

Now, how'd I do?

Enthusiasm: Well, Mrs. Viper's first half marathon became a DNB. This just wasn't the right time.
Goal Grade: Incomplete.

Attitude: Judging by the ridiculously small number of miles I ran this year (oops, there's those stats again), I'd say I didn't focus much on running at all in 2011. My experience during the Akron Marathon, however, showed me the joy being part of the running community.
Goal Grade: C for coming along.

Bare essentials: Had I run barefoot last night like I said I might (coughstoryofmylifecough), I would have 100 miles of running barefoot this year. As it stands now, I have run 18 percent of my total mileage without footwear. Last year, I ran 71 miles barefoot, whereas I've run 97 miles this year.
Goal Grade: A for awesomepants.

Marathon: Well, I ran the Akron Marathon as planned, so that's something. I was a bit shy of the the four-hour mark, but I nailed my "married PR."
Goal Grade: B for better than nothing.

Redux: Do I really need to say anything about averaging 20 miles per week this year?
Goal Grade: F for failed so hard.

What are my goals for next year? Well, you'll just have to come back for that post.

Back Talk
Wherein some people don't know how to count.

Jamoosh doesn't think much of my new (since ended) streak: "Can there really be a streak of one? Regardless, congrats on ending one streak; just don't start another of the same ilk."

Answer: No, there can't be a streak of one, as a "streak" denotes a series. Thankfully, I ran serially Friday and Saturday for a two-day streak of runs.

Happy Hour is nearly upon us, teammates! Have a finely brewed weekend. Run well and drink well. Cheers!

When There's Warmth

2011-12-15T11:19:00.000-05:00

We've had a bit of a warm front this week, albeit a rain-drenched one. After returning to running last weekend, I took a bit of an extended recovery break. Last night's mid-40s temperature and brief dryness, however, lured me out the door for another short run around my new stomping grounds.

The temperature today is in the 50s, which might require another run tonight, if the cold snap in the forecast doesn't come too early. This weather, despite the wetness, is a gift to cold climate runners. You just can't pass up this opportunity.

I'm happy to report that I have yet to run in anything but shorts this late autumn. Shoes, however, have become commonplace, as I don't care for the feeling of running in wet socks, and I'm too chicken to go barefoot in temperatures below 45 degrees.

If it's dry after work, though, I might have to get in one last barefoot run before winter closes the door on my footwearless season.

With this year nearly at its end, I'm already starting to sketch out my running plans for 2012. This year's goals were hit-and-miss as usual, but I'll recap those in a later post. That said, I'm hoping to make up for some shortfalls next year.

Mailed In Post: Seven Things

2011-12-13T15:11:00.000-05:00

As I was contemplating what to write about, Jamoosh made it easy by tagging me to write seven random things about the new house.

1.) The house is less than one mile from the apartment where Mrs. Viper and I used to live. Despite the short distance, the new neighborhood seems significantly more urban.

2.) The house is 2.5 stories, with three bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, a finished attic space, and a basement.

3.) The backyard is "fenced" in on three sides with telephone poles of varying heights. We will be removing these when possible and installing a normal fence. The only problem is that the poles at the back end of our yard act as a retaining wall because the adjoining lot to the rear is about three feet lower than ours.

4.) Mrs. Viper and I looked at four other houses before seeing our house. We knew right away that we wanted it and made an offer that night.

5.) The house was built in 1915, but the previous owner restored it in an effort to flip it. There is very little we need to do to the house, which is a great relief. Despite that fact, we've still made five trips to a certain home improvement store since December began.

6.) I've run six miles since the move, which we had to delay a month from the time we took possession because the previous seller had rented the house to three of the cleanest single males I've ever met. We were nice and honored their lease, which ended Nov. 30.

7.) We had our house warming party seven days after we moved. My lovely wife was instrumental in turning the house into a home in such a short time frame. Looking ahead to next year, my big plans for the house include fixing that fence, fixing the garage door, putting a workshop and beer cellar in the basement, and establishing a small old-time jam in the attic. Is it weird that I'm excited to shovel snow and cut grass?

I'm supposed to tag seven other people, but I don't want to. Cheers!

Two Streaks Broken

2011-12-12T10:50:00.000-05:00

One streak died at the start of another. The second streak died shortly thereafter.

That's right, teammates, I'm talking about that 20-day runless streak I had going up until Friday afternoon, when I finally slipped outside for a short run around my new neighborhood.

The very next day, I ran again, trying to wear out Dobson before our house warming and Christmas tree trimming party. While the run was successful for me, the dog still had enough energy to attempt herding the children who were in attendance. He passed out as soon as it was just adults remaining.

Sunday, however, was the end of my brief running streak. My motivation to run has returned, though, and I expect to gather a few miles this week when I can.

In addition to my short runs, I have been diligent with my core strength exercises. After each run, I performed a combination of 20-pound dumbbell curls and chair dips or push-ups and sit-ups.

My goal this winter is no new holiday heft. Maintaining my weight will be a major challenge with all the holiday cheer, but I'm determined avoid any gain.

Flashback Friday: Snow Upon the Ground

2011-12-09T10:16:00.001-05:00

And so we awoke this morning to the sound of a fist banging on our front door, and outside was awash in white. Our new dining room table was to be delivered between 7:35 and 9:35 a.m. Of course the truck arrived at 7.

Mrs. Viper hopped out of bed and threw on a robe to greet the delivery men. She's much nicer in the morning than I am. Dobson was barking up a storm, which I'm sure our new neighbors appreciated. They had to wake up for work at some point.

After slowly getting ready for the day, I headed downstairs. My wife on the couch, the dog outside, and two men putting together the table. They were done and out the door by 7:20, a good 15 minutes before they were even supposed to be there.

By now, our washer and dryer should have also arrived, which accounts for the last of our deliveries to the house. Tonight we finish up decorating in time for our house warming and Christmas tree trimming party tomorrow.

And, oh yeah, the snow.

For the first time this year, I had to scrape off my car windows. The drive in to work was a picturesque scene, a winding road through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the trees draped in snow, and even the compost plant presented a bucolic image, with its foul-smelling mounds of shit appearing as miniature snow-capped mountains.

I was hoping to break my streak before the first real snow, but alas we still display goose eggs in our mileage counter.

Back Talk
Wherein a party might help further the lack of running

Misszippy says I shouldn't get too settled: "Better watch out or you'll find yourself like me, clawing your way back to fitness! Nothing like a deadline (party) to get you in motion to finish things off. Have fun!"

Answer: I fear my first run from the new house will have lots of walk breaks. As for finishing up the house details, I always work better under deadline, says the procrastinator with the journalism degree.

Happy Hour is nearly upon us, teammates! Have a finely brewed weekend. Run well and drink well. Cheers!

A Little Something

2011-12-07T12:50:00.001-05:00

My streak began with a peculiar abdominal pain that turned my Thanksgiving running plans into time spent packing instead. That pain has since gone away, but the running has not returned, as you well know by now. This morning, however, I got the urge to do something -- anything -- akin to exercise.

At first, I decided to try some "100-Ups," the very exercise that I blamed for that odd gut pain. With that done, I then dropped down and gave myself 20 push-ups. Finally, I rolled onto my back and did a set of bicycle sit-ups.

The effort was a shock to the system that sent blood racing through my veins. I still don't know when I'll run again, but at least I completed a little fitness activity to stay in some semblance of shape. Again, it's the little things.