What ever it takes!

13.1 Half Marathon LA

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Location:

Lehi,UT,USA

Member Since:

Apr 29, 2010

Gender:

Male

Goal Type:

Boston Qualifier

Running Accomplishments:

2009 Provo River Marathon, 4:04:38

2009 Provo Canyon Halloween 1/2 Marathon, 1:27:22

2010 Ogden Marathon, 3:04:39

2010 Deseret News Marathon, 2:51:36

2010 Provo River 1/2 Marathon 1:19:01

2010 Top of Utah Marathon 2:52:24

2010 Just Cuz 1/2 Marathon 1:17:36

2011 13.1 LA 1/2 Marathon 1:19:43

2011 Timpanogos Half 1:16:51

2011 Treadmill Marathon 2:49:26 (pr)

Short-Term Running Goals:

2:45 Boston.

Favorite Blogs:

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Miles:This week: 0.00 Month: 0.00 Year: 0.00
Elliptical Trainer 2017 Lifetime Miles: 107.00
Treadmill 2017 Lifetime Miles: 454.20
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2196.62274.6099.1017.102587.42
Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 87.86Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 213.60Swim Miles: 30.60Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 275.00Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 1523.71Elliptical Trainer Miles: 231.50Bike Miles: 305.95Barefoot Miles: 6.50Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 336.80Nike Free TR Winter Miles: 33.35Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 104.60
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
14.860.000.000.0014.86

Well, the first annual New Years Day FRB run was a huge success,  I set out early this morning to stash some Gatorade along the route and checked out running conditions on the trail and road.  Decided the road was was to slick to be safe and decided just running the river trail out and back was the safest option.  Went back to the park and ride to meet up with everyone at 8:00 am.  Allie showed up right on time, I found her easy by her Utah State Aggie license plate.  We waited around in the cold for 20 minutes for any last stragglers and then finally the whole group (Allie and I) headed off.  

It was about 5 degrees at the start but I had anticipated it being very cold and actually over dressed, I think I had at least 1 extra layer of everything on,  2 pairs of socks, running tights with running pants over them, 3 shirts and a jacket, 2 pairs of gloves and a hat over a headband.  I started out very comfortable and actually ended up stashing some clothes at the "aid station" ( my stashed cooler of gatorade)

It turned out being a beautiful morning for running, the trail was for the most part clear with about 1" of snow over it to cushion the run, there were a few spots along the route where we had to dredge through a foot of snow, but nothing terrible.  No wind and actually just a wonderful run.  The conversation mostly consisted of how awesome we were, and how bad everyone else must feel back in their comfy warm beds watching re-runs of the New York Ball droping on the morning news.  :)

We really should try and plan another group run, and hopefully get more than 2 people next time.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:44 7:44   
 2 8:00 8:00   
 3 8:37 8:37   
 4 7:27 7:27   
 5 7:27 7:27   
 6 7:30 7:30   
 7 7:22 7:22   
 8 7:15 7:15   
 9 7:15 7:15   
 10 7:13 7:13   
 11 7:28 7:28   
 12 7:37 7:37   
 13 9:08 9:08   
 14 7:56 7:56   
 14.86 7:11 8:21   
 Total 1:55:17 7:45   

Those really slow miles 3, and 13 were due to a construction area with the foot of snow.


Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 14.86
Comments
From allie on Sat, Jan 01, 2011 at 14:34:24 from 174.23.238.75

thanks for a fun run this morning, we will definitely have to do it again! and thanks for mapping out the route and stashing the gatorade, too. i hope i didn't slow you down too much, but thanks for pulling me along. i would have never, ever done that alone. it was much too cold!

happy new year.

From Carina on Sat, Jan 01, 2011 at 17:50:12 from 67.182.247.30

That actually sounds like a really run run, I'm sad I missed it! Stephan wasn't very enthusiastic about me running in sub-freezing temps with this nasty cold. For sure do it again and I'll try to make it next time!

From Fritz on Sat, Jan 01, 2011 at 18:20:49 from 65.100.192.74

Looks like a sort of fun time. I was one of the less awesome people who resorted to running on the treadmill today. If I am around next year and it is above 0 degrees I vow to join you.

From Andrea on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 18:01:22 from 67.177.21.60

I agree with Fritz! Your kid deserves lots of ice cream for that :o)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

So, reading everyone else post their yearly mileage I decided I wanted to figure mine out too.  I got my Garmin 305 last Christmas 2009,  (a few weeks early).  Before then I didn't really track my mileage.  So 2010 is really the first year I ever tracked for an entire year.  I was really consistant logging on Garmin Connect until I joined the Blog in April then my Garmin logging started lagging.  I'm going to try and keep both logs up to date this year.

Anyway,

January 1st - March 31st = 827

April 1st - December 31st = 2209

Total = 3,036

That seems pretty good for my first full year of running.  I suspect 2011 will break that.

Since it's January 2nd and a time to set goals, here are my running goals for 2011.

3 Marathons - Ogden, Des News, St. George

4 1/2 Marathons - Provo River 1/2, Hobble Creek, Provo Halloween 1/2, Just Cus.

Some 5K or two - Sub 17 Min.

Goals

Top 10 in every race I run.

Marathon 3:36

Stay injury free all year,

Loose another 10 -15 lbs.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.008.000.000.0010.00

5:00 am.  One of the hardest treadmill workouts I can remember.  I was reading an article by Ryan Hall last week about training for Boston and simulating the Newton Hills on a treadmill.  I couldn't remember exactly what his work out was but I put together my own version.  1 mile warm up, 2 mile climb, 1 mile downhill sprint, 2 mile climb, 1 mile downhill, 2 mile climb, 1 mile downhill. for a total of 10 miles.

I kept increasing the incline each interval to a max of 5% for the 1 mile climb.  I wimped out a bit on that last mile climb, looking at my HR I probably could have pushed it a little harder but mentally I wasn't into it anymore and was feeling pretty weezy at that point.

 DistanceTime
 Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:26 6:26 0% 135 148
 2 6:25 6:25 2% 151 158
 3 6:32 6:32 3% 162 165
 4 5:42 5:42 -1% 163 166
 5 6:31 6:31 3% 166 168
 6 6:50 6:50 4% 168 170
 7 5:37 5:37 -2% 166 169
 8 7:05 7:05 4% 167 169
 9 7:30 7:30 5% 167 170
 10 5:35 5:35 -2% 168 169
 Total 1:04:15 6:25 1.6% (845')
 161 170

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Lily on Mon, Jan 03, 2011 at 10:10:19 from 67.199.181.73

That certainly looks like a gut busting work out Rob. My hat is off to you for doing hard things -esp during the hum drum winter. :)

From Rob on Mon, Jan 03, 2011 at 10:27:35 from 72.254.62.231

Thanks Lily, just trying to keep things interesting until I start my official training schedule.

From allie on Mon, Jan 03, 2011 at 20:58:47 from 174.23.238.75

wow, rob. that is quite the workout. very nice!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.001.000.000.008.00

5:00 am.  Still feeling my legs from yesterdays rolling hills simulation.  Wanted to take it easy today, but I tend to always get carried away.  Tomorrow I swim.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:50 6:50 0 157 186
 2 6:39 6:39 0 141 146
 3 6:35 6:35 0 147 152
 4 6:30 6:30 0 152 154
 5 6:28 6:28 0 154 156
 6 6:23 6:23 0 156 159
 7 6:18 6:18 0 158 160
 8 5:52 5:52 0 163 166
 Total 51:46 6:28 0 153 166

Didn't count that first 1 mile HR.  I wish I knew why my HR always shoots up when I start a run.  Is that a good or bad thing.

 

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Carina on Tue, Jan 04, 2011 at 15:18:58 from 204.15.86.83

Going easy on the treadmill is so hard for me. I think it's cause I just want to get it over with and the faster I got the sooner I'm done. The only thing I can think about the heart rate is it's just taking a bit to get into the groove.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

5:00 am.  2400 M swim in exactly 1 hour, including a quick potty break after 1 mile.  I sure like swimming as a recovery but boy that first 30 seconds jumping into cold water after coming in from outside is really painful.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Comments
From Carina on Wed, Jan 05, 2011 at 17:50:45 from 204.15.86.83

One of the reasons I don't swim! And I don't know how :)

From allie on Wed, Jan 05, 2011 at 21:12:12 from 174.23.238.75

i don't know how to swim either, although i wish i did because it is such great cross training.

nice job today.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.003.500.009.50

5:00 am.  I wanted to do some sort of speed work today but wasn't sure what to do, I didn't really feel like a long tempo run, and 1 mile repeats are to long.   So I warmed up for 4 miles wondering what to do and decided to do 1/2 mile repeats with 1/2 mile rest in between, just cause it's easier to keep track of than 1/4 mile rests :)  Ended up doing 6 X 1/2 mile.  I really had no idea where to start my pace so I kind of experimented each time, first set started at 5:42 and worked up to 5:30, last set started at 5:21 working up to 5:10.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:28 6:28 0 143 167
 2 6:24 6:24 0 150 156
 3 6:19 6:19 0 155 159
 4 6:22 6:22 0 158 162
 4.5 2:48 5:36 0 166 170
 5 3:29 6:58 0 158 169
 5.5 2:45 5:30 0 168 172
 6 3:32 7:04 0 159 171
 6.5 2:44 5:28 0 169 173
 7 3:32 7:04 0 160 173
 7.5 2:40 5:20 0 170 175
 8 3:33 7:06 0 162 175
 8.5 2:39 5:18 0 171 176
 9 3:37 7:14 0 162 175
 9.5 2:37 5:14 0 171 176
 Total 59:37 6:15 0 159 176

 I wasn't sure I wanted to mention this, but it's been disturbing me all morning, since this is a public forum I'll try to be a bit subjective on my personal feelings on the subject, but this morning after my run, like I often do I went down to the hot tub to relax and stretch, when I got in there were 2 other guys in the hot tub standing awfully close to one another, I gave them the benefit of the doubt and figured maybe they were just having a conversation and couldn't hear each other over the sound of the water fall.  Then they started massaging each other and quickly the situation got very un-comfortable, I left.  So here is the question,  personal believes aside on the subject.  Is it appropriate for 2 people, man and woman or man and man to be getting that close in a public hottub.  Granted, if it were a man and a woman I probably wouldn't have been as un-comforatble and may not have gotten out as quickly.  But fact of the matter is, if I was there with my own wife I wouldn't share affection like that in public fearing it might offend someone and the fact than now, I have to share a locker room with two people that I saw like this makes it a bit awkward.  I might as well go share the womens locker room now.

Sorry, I'm not usually one to start a controversy but just thought I'd throw it out there.

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 9.50
Comments
From Marlin on Thu, Jan 06, 2011 at 10:59:05 from 174.253.183.232

Rob, I have noticed your post sand how detailed they are and how you track your HR. I am trying to learn more on the importance of HR and what it should be in a marathon run verses what it should be in training. I was told 80% HR in my marathons but over the last couple it was alittle higher and I was fine, just wondering if you could fill me in on some of it. Thank you, I am 47 yrs old and max HR should be 173, 80% is 138 but feel fine when running at alittle higher. Thank you. Marlin

From Rob on Thu, Jan 06, 2011 at 11:16:28 from 206.71.84.68

Marlin, I have put together a pretty cool spreadsheet that will tell you about where your HR should be for different efforts, Recovery, General, Long run, Marathon pace, LT, and VO2 max. All you do is fill in your min and max HR and it calculates the rest. I can share that with you if you PM my your e-mail address. The tricky one is finding accurate Max HR, you can use the simple equation using age and subtracting 40 or what every, but the best way is to go out to a track and max it out by doing intervals, or hill sprints.

From Carina on Fri, Jan 07, 2011 at 00:09:52 from 204.15.86.83

I have to agree that there is such a thing as too much PDA sexual orientation aside. It's just awkward!!

Also I am interested as well in the HR stuff. I've got my resting HR (55) but my Max HR is still a mystery to me. I've tested it a couple of times but got different numbers. The first was 192 which I know is high, and the second was 184. So I'm not sure.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.004.000.000.008.00

5:00 am.  Another easy run gone hard, it's just been so much fun running fast and being injury free lately that I can't seem to help myself, in another week when I start following a schedule again I'll try to tone down my easy days but this last month or so of just running with no plan or goal has been alot of fun.  Just wake up every morning and experiment with different things.  I'm getting really excited for this year or running.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:25 6:25 0 152 183
 2 6:20 6:20 0 152 156
 3 6:09 6:09 0 158 160
 4 6:08 6:08 0 162 165
 5 6:02 6:02 0 164 166
 6 6:00 6:00 0 166 168
 7 5:57 5:57 0 168 169
 8 5:46 5:46 0 170 173
 Total 48:47 6:05 0 161 173

 Didn't count that crazy 183 HR first lap again.  Really crazy how it does that, it shoots up for about 3 minutes and then immediately drops down to 145.

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

6:30 am. Met Ryan at Maverik for our normal Saturday loop, we both needed to get home early to get ready for the day so we cut the run a bit short.  14 planned, cold, foggy morning, some pretty slick spots on the road but the JRP trail was clear and nice.  We kept a really good pace going the entire run, especially considering some slick spots to navigate.  We both looked like snowmen when we where done from all the fog stuck to us.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:53 6:53  140 155
 2 6:50 6:50  156 160
 3 6:36 6:36  160 163
 4 6:29 6:29  162 165
 5 6:39 6:39  158 166
 6 6:31 6:31  161 163
 7 6:41 6:41  161 163
 8 6:44 6:44  162 164
 9 6:44 6:44  160 164
 10 6:44 6:44  160 162
 11 6:57 6:57  160 163
 12 6:45 6:45  164 169
 Total 1:20:39 6:43  159 169
 

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 12.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Sat, Jan 08, 2011 at 16:05:34 from 174.253.194.31

Easy effort for you these days.

From Carina on Sat, Jan 08, 2011 at 18:27:59 from 204.15.86.83

It's crazy to me that you call that an easy effort! Nice work!!

From Rob on Sat, Jan 08, 2011 at 19:08:59 from 204.15.86.95

My regular training schedule has 6 different levels of intensity, 1.Recovery 2.General Aerobic 3.Med/Long run 4. Marathon pace 5.Lactate Threshold 6.VO2 max. This log isn't that granular so every thing under Marathon pace falls in the "Easy" category. I would put todays run at level 3. So it wasn't that easy. Running outside is quite a bit different than the treadmill. I'm a lot more sore than I get on the TM today.

From allie on Sun, Jan 09, 2011 at 12:49:59 from 174.23.238.75

very nice, rob. thanks for not making me run that fast last week :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.0013.100.000.0013.10

Humm, Well that was a tad bit Extreme/Insane/Stupid for a casual Monday morning run, here is the time line of my thought process this morning.

4:00, Ohh!  I don't want to get up, maybe I'll skip the gym today,

4:05, Maybe I'll just do an easy slow run this morning,

4:25, (driving to gym) Maybe I'll try my 10 miles in 1 hour run today.

4:45, (Stretching out on treadmill) Maybe I'll just start out at 6:00/mil pace with no warm up, and try to just keep that pace for 10 miles.

4:55, Humm, I think I can go faster than this

5:30, Hey, I'm on track to beat my 1/2 marathon PR.

5:55, Oh, I think my legs are going to collapse

5:57, Oh, I think I'm going to throwup!

6:00, That was awesome. I beat my 1/2 PR by 1 minute

7:00, Ohh!  What the &#@$ was I thinking.

It's not quite official cause I had to do a treadmill reset at mile 10 and took a quick water break, but I think I could have done it without the break since I actually started up at mile 10 slower than I had left off.  I was feeling pretty sick by the end and really wanted to stop, but I made it through.  I'm sure everyone at the gym thought I was nuts.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 5:57 5:57 0 143 163
 2 5:56 5:56 0 158 161
 3 5:53 5:53 0 161 163
 4 5:48 5:48 0 164 166
 5 5:49 5:49 0 166 168
 6
 5:46
 5:46 0 169 170
 7 5:42 5:42 0 169 170
 8 5:39 5:39 0 169 171
 9 5:45 5:45 0 169 170
 10 5:42 5:42 0 168 170
 11 5:48 5:48 0 160 168
 12 5:46 5:46 0 168 170
 13 5:45 5:45 0 170 171
 13.1 :33 5:30 0 170 172
 Total 1:15:57 5:46 0 164 172


Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 13.10
Comments
From jtshad on Mon, Jan 10, 2011 at 10:24:46 from 204.134.132.225

Smokin' workout...especially at 4am on Monday morning. I thought I was nuts for a 5 mile tempo!

From Lily on Mon, Jan 10, 2011 at 10:31:52 from 67.199.181.73

LOL! Best post! You and I are one in the same in that people at the gym probably think we are both nuts. I push speed so hard at couple times a week and I know people are thinking somethin' about it. haha NICE WORK! And you know I mean it

From allie on Mon, Jan 10, 2011 at 19:56:13 from 174.23.238.75

seriously rob. the things that you do...

speedy. awesome!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.001.000.000.008.00

5:00 am.  I did something really nutty yesterday after my 1/2 marathon PR on the treadmill.  I'm going to Anaheim this weekend for a 2 week conference, excited to start my training schedule in a nice warm place :)  Anyway, I saw that there is the LA 1/2 marathon this Sunday so just for fun I went to the sign up page but it said it was sold out.  Not leaving good enough alone I then went to the 5K sign up page which wasn't sold out, in the 5K page I noticed that it gave me the option to select signing up for either the 5K or the 1/2 marathon.  This sparked my curiosity and sure enough I found a loophole in the system.  So, it looks like I'm running a sea level 1/2 marathon this weekend.

(If you know my wife, (this means you Carina)) don't tell her.  She would kill me if she found out I'm running a 1/2 marathon on Sunday when I'm suppose to be working.  But I figure I'll be done with the race by 8:30 and be back for work before I'm even missed.  

Back to today, I tried to take it easy, but I really struggle running slower on the treadmill.  I started out trying to keep my HR at or below 140 but after 3 miles I gave up and started running faster.  Still a recovery, but I may need to replace recovery runs with swimming during my schedule just to insure I truly do recover, even at the risk of lower total miles.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:11 7:11 0 139 156
 2 7:18 7:18 0 140 143
 3 7:30 7:30 0 142 146
 4 7:25 7:25 0 146 150
 5 7:04 7:04 0 151 153
 6 6:53 6:53 0 154 156
 7 6:39 6:39 0 157 159
 8 6:01 6:01 0 165 171
 Total 56:05 7:00 0 149 171

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 8.00
Comments
From jtshad on Tue, Jan 11, 2011 at 10:25:55 from 204.134.132.225

Good luck in LA!

From Carina on Tue, Jan 11, 2011 at 11:56:11 from 204.15.86.83

Ha Ha, no worries your secret is safe with me. I'm excited to see how you do, I'm sure you'll rock it!!

From allie on Tue, Jan 11, 2011 at 19:45:10 from 174.23.238.75

good luck at the 1/2. sounds like fun!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

5:00 am.  2400 Meter swim in 60 minutes, I can't seem to get faster than that, about 1/2 mile / 20 minutes.  But my flip turns are getting much better :)

Feeling very refreshed after today's swim.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.509.00

5:00 am.  Good run today, not to hard but enough to get the blood and legs moving.  Threw in some sprints at the end, it's hard to get accurate splits on short treadmill sprints cause a couple of seconds changes everything.  I did 0.1 mile sprint, 0.1 mile jog x 5. So that's like 160 meter sprints, it takes the treadmill a few seconds to get to speed so I would say ~100 meters are at full speed.

I suppose the times don't matter as much as just getting the legs moving.  13.2 mph - 15 mph.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:57 6:57 .5% 142 165
 2 6:40 6:40 .5%148
 153
 3 6:30 6:30 .5% 155 159
 4 6:26 6:26 .5% 159 163
 5 6:22 6:22 .5% 161 164
 6 6:18 6:18 .5% 163 165
 7 6:38 6:38 .5% 161 164
 7.1 :27 4:30 0 168 173
 7.2 :46 7:39 0 171 174
 7.3 :27 4:30 0 168 171
 7.4 :47 7:49 0 170 173
 7.5 :27 4:30 0 166 170
 7.6 :49 8:10 0 170 174
 7.7 :26 4:20 0 166 170
 7.8 :49 8:10 0 170 174
 7.9 :25 4:09 0 165 172
 8.0 :55 9:10 0
 170 176
 9 7:04 7:04 0 157 162
 Total 59:23 6:35 (185') 157 176
 

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Marlin on Thu, Jan 13, 2011 at 12:58:36 from 174.253.186.255

Rod, thanks for the info the other day. I was just wondering if you could look at my HR on my blog because I have a hard time getting HR up at the pace I am at even with a 0.05% incline. Is this a good indication to increase MP some. Thanks Marlin

From Marlin on Thu, Jan 13, 2011 at 13:38:11 from 174.253.186.255

Rob, what would be a good HR for a marathon?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.001.000.009.00

5:30 am.  Slept in an extra 20 minutes,  nice.  And went to the gym for a plan of 6 mile easy run.  Threw in 1 quick mile to do (dare I say it) a mile of goal 1/2 marathon pace for this weekends race.

After my 1 quick mile I decided to run a mile recovery, after I stopped I noticed Riverton Paul who lied to everyone by saying he wouldn't be running for 6 months was on the treadmill in the back row, so I went and ran 2 miles with him and chatted about his achilles tendon and the treatment he is going to do, ouch!!  Nice run, I'm going to attempt to not run tomorrow and blame it on travel to get ready for Sunday.  Luckily I have been upgraded to first class on my flight that always makes it easier to relax.

 Distance

 Time

 Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:05 7:05 0 154 189
 2 6:51 6:51 0 150 154
 3 6:39 6:39 0 149 154
 4 6:31 6:310
 154 158
 5 6:26 6:26 0 156 160
 6 5:39 5:39 0 167 170
 7 7:10 7:10 0 156 169
 8 7:02 7:02 0 154 160
 9 6:59 6:59 0 158 161
 Total 1:00:59 6:44 0 155 170

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Lily on Fri, Jan 14, 2011 at 09:56:18 from 67.199.181.73

Riverton, that liar. Shame shame :)

Good luck with the race. I know you're going to do very well!

From allie on Fri, Jan 14, 2011 at 14:32:21 from 174.23.123.195

have a nice flight and good luck on sunday.

From jtshad on Sat, Jan 15, 2011 at 10:49:03 from 63.230.225.240

Have fun in sunny SoCal and good luck at the race!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

No, run today but I wish I would have, I woke up at 4:00am and just laid in bed fretting about work and my run tomorrow, sometimes its better to just get up and get moving. 

Perfect temperatures here in Anaheim, It is so nice to get out of the gunky cold and smog of Utah for a few weeks.

I'm sitting in my hotel room now, watching football and wishing I didn't have to go run a race tomorrow, I feel like I'm in good shape, I don't hurt anywhere but I'm just having second thoughts about doing it for some reason.  Oh, well, it should be fun, hopefully I will perform well but I keep making up excuses for why I won't already,  I need to stop that.  

Comments
From Rob Murphy on Sat, Jan 15, 2011 at 22:23:45 from 24.10.248.6

You probably won't get this before the race but good luck anyway. I bet once that gun goes off you'll be fine.

Race: 13.1 Half Marathon LA (13.1 Miles) 01:19:43, Place overall: 17
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.003.1010.000.0015.10

I need to make this quick cause I'm late for work,  Not exactly the report I wanted to give but I'm happy I went and did this race, totally last minute decision, thought it would be fun to run a sea level course while I'm in So. Cal.  The hotel I'm staying at is having a NAMM convention, can't remember what that stands for but it's basically a conference for a bunch of musicians.  AKA rockers, needless to say, there were parties in the halls and rooms around me until 4:00, luckily I went to bed at 8:00 and got 4 hours of sleep before the parties started.

I convinced my co-worker friends to wake up at 5:00am and drive me to LA and watch the race, that's why I love my job so much.  How many people work with people that would do that.

Got to the race way to early, so I checked in, hit the portapotty as many times as I could and jogged probably 3 miles total, I'm saying 2 just to be safe as a warm up.  Then went to the start line.

Race started right on time with perfect conditions,  about 50 degrees with a nice sea breeze.  I knew the 1st half was slightly uphill, and then at mile 7 it turned around came back down the same road (Venice Blvd) with a avg downhill grade, plan was to go out in 5:30 - 5:40, hang on to sub 6:00 as long as I could and then negative split the last 6.  Plan went well, I hit the 1/2 way point on target going up, but the slight uphill took a little more out of my legs than I had anticipated, once my body got into that 6ish range I couldn't seem to push any harder,  believe me I tried but just couldn't do it, kind of strange, I didn't feel overly tired and the legs didn't hurt, they just didn't want to go any faster.  At mile 10 when I saw that my goal was un-attainable mentally I kind of shut down and just wanted to be done.  I kept pushing through but never got my speed back up,  going down the home stretch I heard the announcer say that he could see the female winner coming, I didn't look back but that was enough motivation to push a little bit for the last .1.  :)

I don't really have a great excuse why I couldn't do it in 1:16 as planned, after my run on Monday I really thought I could do it.  I felt good going into it, feel fine now.  I think I just need a little more race experience, and learn to not mentally give up when the going gets tough.

 

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 5:40 5:40 9'  
 2 5:50 5:50 -12'  
 3 5:49 5:49 28'  
 4 5:57 5:57 43'  
 5 5:55 5:55 -14'  
 6 6:11 6:11 38'  
 7 6:05 6:05 7'  
 8 6:06 6:06 19'  
 9 5:59 5:59 -17'  
 10 6:10 6:10 -22'  
 11 6:08 6:08 -17'  
 12 6:22 6:22 -30'  
 13 6:31 6:31 -28'  
 13.1 :52 6:21 0  
 Total 1:19:42 6:04 -5'  

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 15.10
Comments
From jtshad on Sun, Jan 16, 2011 at 15:24:41 from 63.230.225.240

Nice time for a winter half! Looking forward to the rest of the report. Congrats on a good race.

From Fritz on Sun, Jan 16, 2011 at 17:04:58 from 65.100.192.74

Nice job for the first race of the year. You have nice coworkers. Had you planned to do the race a little earlier and gone in a little more rested, I am sure you could have hit 1:16.

From catherine on Sun, Jan 16, 2011 at 23:17:07 from 98.202.112.51

Good job! Way to not get chicked. :)

From Carina on Mon, Jan 17, 2011 at 00:07:15 from 204.15.86.83

Great race!!

From Lily on Mon, Jan 17, 2011 at 09:47:11 from 67.199.181.73

Excellent splits regardless of no quite reaching your goal. I would take that time anyday :) Nice job Rob!

From steve ash on Mon, Jan 17, 2011 at 10:53:11 from 64.134.224.86

Not to worry Rob, Still a solid time and it sounds like travel and sleep issues. They can make or break a race buddy.

From allie on Mon, Jan 17, 2011 at 18:13:17 from 161.38.218.168

nice race -- it's a great start to the year, and i'm sure there's lots more to come.

i agree that you have nice coworkers. and a cool job.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Today is my first official day of following my Ogden Marathon training schedule,  I already didn't follow it since I was suppose to do 9 miles with a 4 mile Tempo run.  I figure my race yesterday more than makes up for a 4 mile tempo run :).  I am feeling really good today despite running a race just yesterday, I think those downhill Utah races really beat up your legs compared to a flat course.  I felt a little bit depleted today and just did a nice recovery run but all and all feel pretty good and am excited to start following a program again.

I officially retired my first pair of Nike Free's today, I am totally amazed by those shoes,  over 1,000 miles on them never had an insole in them other than the original and they are still as comfortable now as the day I bought them.  When I first got them I would only run 1 - 2 easy runs per week in them and only on the treadmill, but right after Top of Utah, (which I wore them in) I switched over to them exclusively and now I only train in Nike Free's and truly attribute getting over all of my leg injuries because of it.  (I should get a sponser from Nike for that, Right?)

I'm staying at the Anaheim Hilton right across the street from Disney Land for the next 2 weeks, back 4 years ago when I started running I remember I used to love to come here cause I would love the loop from the hotel through Downtown Disney and back,  I thought it was at least 4 miles cause I remember it was about all I could manage, and going up the (uphill) to downtown Disney I always had to walk cause the hill was to big,  well turns out the loop is only 2 miles and the uphill would for all intents and purposes be considered flat, so I ran the loop once today and ran into my co-worker who was nice enough to go with me at 5:00am yesterday to the race, he was running the opposite direction as me, so I ran an easy 10 min/mil pace mile with him and when we got to the infamous (uphill) he told me to go without him so I left and ran the loop 2 more times. 

As you can probably tell, I'm a little bit excited this morning, happy to be in perfect weather for running, and excited to really pick it up and make this year of running spectacular. 

Distance Time Avg Pace
Incline
 Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:12 7:12   
 2 7:20 7:20   
 3 8:56 8:56   
 4 6:53 6:53   
 5 7:08 7:08   
 6 7:18 7:18   
 7 6:57 6:57   
 Total 51:46 7:24   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Jan 17, 2011 at 18:10:39 from 161.38.218.168

nice run after racing yesterday. i too am a huge fan of the nike free. best shoe ever.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Feeling the race in my legs a bit this morning, woke up with really sore calves and hamstrings.  The last time I was here in Anaheim I found a great bike commute trail that seems to go on forever, it starts off of Katella Ave. near the Honda Stadium were the Ducks play and goes for ever in both directions.  Last time I did it I drove to the trail, today I woke up at 4:30 am and decided to run there instead.  It was a bit further than I had thought about 3 miles from the hotel to the trail and then I ran the trail 3 miles out and back and then back to the hotel for a total of 12.  Pretty dark once I got to the trail, the only thing lighting the way was the really cool full orange moon,  it was pretty neat.  There were little bunny rabbits that kept running out in front of me scaring me to death.  The only thing that scares be worse than fuzzy little bunny rabbits is thinking about what ever must be there to eat the bunny rabbits.  Luckily I didn't run into any of them.

I ran a bit faster than I had planned, (6:45) felt pretty good once I got the legs moving.  Still a little bit depleted from the race but I'm sure after a recovery run tomorrow I'll be fine. I forgot my HR monitor and didn't want to come back up to my room to get it.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:41 6:41   
 2 6:48 6:48   
 3 6:39 6:39   
 4 6:45 6:45   
 5 6:42 6:42   
 6 6:44 6:44   
 7 6:26 6:26   
 8 6:31 6:31   
 9 6:34 6:34   
 10 6:38 6:38   
 11 6:55 6:55   
 12 6:33 6:33   
 Total 1:19:57 6:40   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Jan 18, 2011 at 21:09:15 from 174.23.123.195

trail running with little bunny rabbits? very nice! great pace today as well.

just don't run into any skunks...

From Rob on Wed, Jan 19, 2011 at 10:30:49 from 68.27.198.5

You're right Allie, Skunks are much scarier than fuzzy rabbits.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Nice easy recovery run today,  I did the extended Down Town Disney loop twice with a bunch of running back and forth at the end to make it an even 6.  My second time around I decided it would be fun to go run through the Disney Land Hotel gardens, I used to love it there as a kid, but when I got there it was all walled off for renovation.  Bummer, Oh Well, another perfect morning for running.

Now off to a busy busy work day.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 8:03 8:03  129 153
 2 7:48 7:48  134 141
 3 7:32 7:32  132 138
 4 7:45 7:45  135 139
 5 7:53 7:53  138 150
 6 7:24 7:24  139 147
 Total 46:28 7:44  134 150
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Was awakened this morning at 4:00 am by the sound of banging and crashing outside my hotel window, went to see what was going on and patio furniture was being blown all over the place slamming into the sides of the hotel.  I thought, well that doesn't look fun to run in.    Tried to get back to sleep but never could so I got out of bed around 4:30 and decided to use the hotel gym today instead.  Found out it didn't open until 5:30 so I stretched a bit, layed down with my HR monitor to find my resting HR,  it went all the way down to 34bpm,  pretty excited about that, and then decided to go run the Downtown Disney loop and test how bad the wind really was.  Set out, did the 2 mile loop and decided it was tolerable and ran up Katella to the "fuzzy bunny trail" headwind the whole way, ran the trail for 2 miles out and 2 back and then back to the hotel.  Had a wicked tail wind coming back which was a lot of fun.  You know it's really windy when your running a 6:00min pace and can still feel the wind pushing you.

Good run, not nearly as nice as all the other days since I've been here.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:18 7:18  158 172
 2 7:07 7:07  145 148
 3 7:24 7:24  144 151
 4 7:07 7:07  150 159
 5 6:57 6:57  153 159
 6 6:42 6:42  156 162
 7 6:31 6:31  157 160
 8 6:24 6:24  155 164
 9 6:49 6:49  153 163
 10 7:02 7:02  154 160
 Total 1:09:32 6:57  152 164

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Jan 21, 2011 at 00:53:51 from 174.23.123.195

great pace, rob. wind is really tough to run in -- probably my least favorite weather condition. nice job.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

5:00 am, Glad today was an easy recovery run, need to get an early start at work today.  All that wind yesterday must have brought in the cold today, it was downright chilly this morning.  Nice extended loop around Disney twice, avg pace a little faster than it should have been but I needed to get moving to warm up.

 Distance Time
 Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:34 7:34  159 173
 2 7:23 7:23  136 145
 3 7:03 7:03  139 145
 4 7:17 7:17  141 148
 5 7:06 7:06  148 159
 6 7:06 7:06  145 149
 Total 43:21 7:15  145 159
 

 

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Preston Tatum on Fri, Jan 21, 2011 at 10:23:29 from 67.79.11.242

Hi Rob, I'm new to the Blog.

Wow...I just looked at your personal informaiton. What accomplishment!!!! I've been running about 8 months, looks like I have a long way to go. I run with a heart rate monitor and I've been trying to bring my heart rate down while increasing my speed. It seems like a slow process. At 50 I guess I got started a little late in life. I see you can run a 7:00 pace over 6 miles and keep your heart rate at 145, do you mind me asking how old you are? Not really trying to compare but I am curious and trying to figure out what my goal should be. I may have my hopes way too high.

From Rob on Fri, Jan 21, 2011 at 10:39:08 from 72.254.88.23

Preston, Thanks for the feedback. I'm 37 almost 38. I have been following a race schedule that focuses on Heart Rate pretty closely. Lots of people on the blog don't like using HR, the run by feel approach seems to be the most popular method of training. I personally like to be told exactly what to do every day, how fast I should be running, how far I should go and where my heart rate should be. Probably cause I'm still a novice myself with no formal training.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
17.000.000.000.0017.00

Awesome morning for a long run, cool temperatures, and an almost full moon lighting the way.  I was a bit nervous for this mornings run, first "long" run since TOU. I'm sure in a few weeks I'll be looking back on the "good ol' days" of 17 mile Saturday runs.

I left the hotel at 5:00am ran 3 miles up to the bunny trail out the trail 5.5 miles turned around at the 8.5 mile mark and ran the same route back to the hotel.  I was feeling great the whole way, kept looking down and my watch thinking I was going way to fast for a long run but I never really felt tired until the last mile.

Got back, showered and off to work,  still beat all my co-workers to work by 1 hour.

Just looked at my Garmin profile and can see why it was so fast the second 1/2, looks like it's slightly uphill all the way out and downhill all the way back.  It seems completely flat when your running it in the dark.

http://connect.garmin.com/player/64555149

 Distance Time
Avg Pace
   
 1 6:576:57
   
 2 6:596:59
   
 3 6:496:49
   
 4 6:426:42
   
 5 6:446:44
   
 6 6:416:41
   
 7 6:436:43
   
 8 6:476:47
   
 9 6:306:30
   
 10 6:196:19
   
 11 6:146:14
   
 12 6:166:16
   
 13 6:226:22
   
 14 6:216:21
   
 15 6:186:18
   
 16 6:306:30
   
 17 6:246:24
   
 Total 1:51:476:34
   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 17.00
Comments
From allie on Sat, Jan 22, 2011 at 14:32:51 from 174.23.123.195

productive day thus far! your ability to run those paces consistently is quite amazing. nice job.

From jtshad on Sat, Jan 22, 2011 at 18:16:39 from 69.20.183.178

Great run! Looks like you are recovered from the half!

From Rob on Sat, Jan 22, 2011 at 22:45:14 from 72.254.57.180

Yeah, I'm amazed how little damage the 1/2 did to me. I saw pictures of myself and you'd of thought I was about to die at the end.

These 12 hour work days are going to be the death of me though.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.001.000.009.00

As much as I love running in this weather and don't look forward to going back to the cold, I'm ready to be done.  12 -14 hour work days, parties in the hotel halls until 2:00 am, and my family drove down to get some Disney time in this weekend, and I have a 3 year old that is up all night coughing.  I'm beat.   I have to come to work early just to get away from it all.

This mornings run called for a General Aerobic run with some 10 x 100's for speed, did my Downtown Disney loop out to the Bunny trail run, ran the trail 1 mile out and back and then coming back down Katella Ave. I used intersections as my sprints.  Nothing like oncoming traffic to dodge to keep those splits up.  Looking at my HR peaks there were about 9 intersections I sprinted across.  My legs are feeling a little worn.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:10 7:10  152 169
 2 7:00 7:00  140 146
 3 7:11 7:11  142 146
 4 6:55 6:55  144 151
 5 7:00 7:00  148 153
 6 6:37 6:37  148 157
 7 6:16 6:16  160 165
 8 6:18 6:18  162 167
 9 6:17 6:17  160 169
 Total 1:00:51 6:45  150 169

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Lily on Mon, Jan 24, 2011 at 13:14:02 from 67.199.181.73

Sometimes I'm a little jealous of my husband being able to leave and go to work. How would it be to sit in silence for a few hours? I miss that.

So what's the day time temp? I bet it's been nice not running in the freezing temps. icky!

From Rob on Mon, Jan 24, 2011 at 13:49:40 from 72.254.92.96

In the case of my wife it's more than jealousy, its downright despise. I'd like to say I'd trade with her, but I wouldn't :)

Morning temps are about 45 - 50, daytime high 75 - 78.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.000.000.000.0013.00

Well, I got a little bit better sleep last night than the last few, but I think I'm catching whatever bug my kids brought down from Salt Lake, a bit of a sore throat this morning.  :(

Same run today, out to the trail, 6.5 miles out and back for a total of 13.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:11 7:11  166 177
 2 7:16 7:16  139 152
 3 6:51 6:51  144 150
 4 6:42 6:42  151 155
 5 6:42 6:42  153 156
 6 6:44 6:44  155 159
 7 6:30 6:30  154 159
 8 6:19 6:19  158 160
 9 6:13 6:13  159 162
 10 6:19 6:19  160 162
 11 6:31 6:31  157 161
 12 6:42 6:42  158 160
 13 6:40 6:40  156 160
 Total 1:26:39 6:40  154 162

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 13.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Jan 25, 2011 at 21:02:36 from 174.23.123.195

time for some emergen-c!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Well, today was a recovery day, so I don't feel to guilty, but I always feel guilty for some reason when I miss a scheduled run.  Intel, (the company I'm working for this week) had a big party at California Adventure last night.  Since my wife was in town I decided it would be fun for the 2 of us to go.  Intel bought out the entire park for the night, which was super fun cause all the rides were just walk on basically.  Lots of really yummy food and deserts, I couldn't have run this morning even if I'd tried. 

We were out until 1:00 am and then at 3:30 am the party continued in the hotel hallway out side my room.  And then an early 7:00 am work start for our last day of conference. 

 So ready to be done.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.003.000.000.0011.00

Long day today, we finished up our conference last night, went to Cheese Cake Factory for dinner for a final horrah and off to bed for the first decent night sleep in over 1 week.  I woke up early and did my final Downtown Disney to Bunny Trail loop, coming back I tried to keep as fast of a pace as I felt I could hold without feeling tight or over extended.  Concentrated on staying relaxed.

Got back to the hotel, hurried and packed up the car for the 10.5 hour drive back home,  made it home safe and am very excited to sleep in my own bed again.  I had to give up perfect weather for decent sleep, not sure where the balance is.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:55 6:55  141 150
 2 6:42 6:42  148 153
 3 6:32 6:32  154 160
 4 6:34 6:34  158 161
 5 6:31 6:31  158 163
 6 6:34 6:34  161 163
 7 6:05 6:05  160 165
 8 6:09 6:09  164 167
 9 6:17 6:17  157 165
 10 6:19 6:19  161 164
 11 6:23 6:23  161 165
 Total 1:10:35 6:27  156 167

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 11.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.001.000.000.006.00

Wow, 8 hours of un-interupted sleep.  Woke up at 5:00 and drove to the gym.  First time on a treadmill in over 2 weeks.  Easy recovery run today,  I threw in a fast last mile just cause I was bored but still calling it a recovery.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:05 7:05   
 2 7:03 7:03   
 3 6:53 6:53   
 4 7:08 7:08   
 5 6:31 6:31   
 6 5:50 5:50   167
 Total 40:29 6:44  154 167
 

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Lily on Fri, Jan 28, 2011 at 17:16:20 from 67.199.181.73

Welcome back! :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.005.000.000.0017.00

That was a bit of a shock to the system after being in Southern Cal for 2 weeks in perfect weather and then running in this yuck.  Between the cold, smog and elevation my lungs were really hating life this morning, and then try to throw in a tempo run on top of it.  Today was suppose to be 17 with an 8 mile Tempo.  E-mailed Ryan and asked if he was up for it, his schedule only called for 8 today but as always he tags along on what ever crazy training run I have in store.   Next week I'll have to bend the other way and go on a 20 with him even though my schedule only has me down for 17. 

We ran 8 down Center Street Lehi and then when we got to the JRP I tried to pick up the pace, didn't really get it where I wanted to be, but the effort was there for sure.

I'm pretty mad, I forgot to put my Garmin on auto splits so I had to do a bunch of math this morning to get my splits.   Total time is correct, but splits may be off slightly.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR

  Max HR

 1 6:52 6:52   
 2 6:37 6:37   
 3 6:48 6:48   
 4 6:25 6:25   
 5 6:19 6:19   
 6 6:18 6:18   
 7 6:32 6:32   
 8 6:31 6:31   
 9 6:11 6:11   
 10 6:19 6:19   
 11 6:14 6:14   
 12 5:58 5:58   
 13 6:31 6:31   
 14 6:39 6:39   
 15 6:51 6:51   
 16 6:56 6:56   
 17 6:34 6:34   
 Total 1:51:41 6:34  156 164

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 17.00
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Jan 29, 2011 at 18:35:48 from 204.15.86.83

When we got home from our cruise I was surprised how hard it was to adjust back to the altitude, I can't imagine that with the inversion too. Great run!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.005.005.000.0010.00

So on my run Saturday I was complaining to Ryan that I thought my schedule seemed to easy and maybe I should bump up the mileage, Ryan convinced me that it's probably a good thing that it seems easy so I should keep the same schedule and focus on Quality over Quantity.  Ah, the ol' Quality vs. Quantity argument.  Spent the rest of the weekend contemplating what that actually means, I take it to mean that my easy runs should be easier and my hard runs should be faster.  Tell me if I'm wrong!!  

So today was a 10 mile run with a 5 mile Tempo, at 5:52 pace.  I thought about it and didn't really think running the first 5 slow would necessarily enable me to run the 5 mile tempo any faster, in fact I find it to be the opposite sometimes,  so I pretty much went all out from the start, starting at 6 min pace and slowly working up.  OK, I cheated the last 4 and put the treadmill on a negative 1% decline.  I decided I would rather keep my pace up than slow down when I got tired toward the end.

I think this counts as one of those Quality workouts.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:00 5:55  155 186
 2 5:59 5:59  155 159
 3 5:56 5:59  161 163
 4 5:55 5:55  164 167
 5 5:52 5:52  166 168
 6 5:49 5:49  167 169
 7 5:44 5:44 -1% 166 168
 8 5:42 5:42 -1% 166 167
 9 5:38 5:38 -1% 168 169
 10 5:48 5:48 -1% 167 169
 Total 58:30 5:50  164 169

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
14.000.000.000.0014.00

Gotta love a good mid-week med/long run, least favorite day of the week, I hate feeling rushed to get my run in.  Pretty surprised by how low my HR stayed, (with the exception of that crazy spike for the first 1/2 mile)

Took a quick drink and bathroom break at mile 9 for a treadmill reset.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:59 6:59  162 198
 2 6:47 6:47  141 150
 3 6:39 6:39  144 147
 4 6:34 6:34  147 150
 5 6:32 6:32  149 151
 6 6:31 6:31  151 153
 7 6:26 6:26  152 155
 8 6:22 6:22  154 156
 9 6:14 6:14  156 158
 10 6:30 6:30  144 156
 11 6:27 6:27  149 151
 12 6:23 6:23  152 154
 13 6:18 6:18  153 155
 14 6:22 6:22  152 156
 Total 1:31:12 6:30  150 158

 

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 14.00
Comments
From steve ash on Tue, Feb 01, 2011 at 12:05:10 from 98.202.79.72

It's an honest distance run Rob and that's what counts. Are you feeling ready for Ogden?

From Rob on Tue, Feb 01, 2011 at 12:48:44 from 206.71.84.68

So I'm following the exact same schedule I followed last year getting ready for Ogden, only much faster average pace. I remember limping around complaining how bad I hurt day and night, driving my wife crazy. This year I've really been pleased with how well I recover each day. I Don't think I'm ready for Ogden yet but so far so good.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

It really doesn't make any sense to me but I really struggle with recovery days, especially on the treadmill, I have a really hard time finding a comfortable pace, I get dizzy for some reason, and really bored.  I cut my run 1 mile short cause I wanted to go swim some laps in the pool, I really enjoy swimming as a recovery over slow running.  16 laps in 20 minutes.  = 800 meters.

Schedule calls for an easy midday run today too, we'll see.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:30 7:30   
 2 14:49 7:19   
 3 21:53 7:04   
 4 29:27 7:30   
 5 36:57 7:30   
 Total 36:57 7:23   

 Well, that was a really stupid mistake and I'm really mad at myself, it's a beautiful day outside and I knew I had to do a double today, but I didn't even consider packing warm running clothes last night when I was getting my stuff together.   So I drove all the way to the gym and back.  Pretty sad when the commute to the gym takes longer than the actual run.  Oh' Well, lesson learned, pack warm running clothes always.

Didn't even try to run at my "goal recovery pace, figured if I could keep my HR below 155, 75% that was recovery enough.  It feels so much better to run at a pace I have trained my body to be comfortable with.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:00 7:00  156 223
 2 13:54 6:54  141 143
 3 19:37 6:43  143 146
 4 26:12 6:35  147 150
 5 32:47 6:20  151 153
 Total 32:47 6:33  148 153

 

Swim Miles: 0.50Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Wed, Feb 02, 2011 at 14:55:46 from 204.15.86.83

I think I need to learn how to swim cause I hate going slow on the treadmill!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.003.000.000.0012.00

5:00 pretty rough start this morning, wouldn't say I feel sick, just icky.  Stomach issues, dizzyness, and a bit soar from the higher mileage this week.  After 4 miles I was about to count my looses and call it quits.  Stopped the treadmill and went and walked around, did some stretches and drank some water then I went back to the TM.  Felt considerably better after the 5 minute break but never totally comfortable. 

I need to try and fix my diet, I do pretty good in the mornings but by early afternoon I become a ravenous monster, my kids have to hide the cookies from me.  :)  I think the number one thing that keeps average runners from improving is diet, if you try and get in a good run to improve performance and whatever you had for dinner last night keeps reminding you not to eat so much it pretty much destroys the workout.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:36 6:36  169 193
 2 13:11 6:35  142 147
 3 19:41 6:30  145 148
 4 25:08 6:27  148 150
 5 31:26 6:18  144 152
 6 37:44 6:18  154 157
 7 43:59 6:15  155 156
 8 50:10 6:11  156 159
 9 56:27 6:17  154 157
 10 1:02:42 6:15  155 157
 11 1:08:52 6:10  157 160
 12 1:15:02 5:52  162 165
 Total 1:15:51 6:19  153165
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Lily on Thu, Feb 03, 2011 at 10:46:27 from 67.199.181.73

I struggle from time to time with diet. I eat really super healthy for the most part. But sometimes I get raging appetite and I eat all the wrong things.

Like this morning for example, I ate 2 chocolate dunford donuts and a glass of chocolate milk. Probably not the best breakfast.

I have found that when I increase my protein, eat complex carbs and healthy fats, I am totally good to go and I seem to have endless energy. I also really believe in eating every 3 hours on the dot. I never get bingey when I do that.

From Rob on Thu, Feb 03, 2011 at 10:51:14 from 206.71.84.68

Wow Lily! Your way more scientific about it than I am. I just eat what ever is available at an amount that I feel wont make me sick tomorrow. And if the kids don't hide the cookies good enough I eat them too.

From Lily on Thu, Feb 03, 2011 at 10:55:08 from 67.199.181.73

I am scientific about it that's for sure :) I have played around with diet so much. I feel like I know the in's and out really well.

It really struck me when I watched a video about how diet trumps exercise any day for active weight lose. It was this one: http://www.hulu.com/watch/63726/nova-marathon-challenge?c=2136%3A2299&from=fb_share

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.600.000.000.606.20

5:00 am.  Felt really good today for a recovery run, so I threw in some 0.1 mile strides at the end better known as 161's, (isn't that distance in the Olympics?)  with 0.1 mile jog.  Then with all my extra time due to a short run I went and swam 16 laps in the pool in 18 minutes.  I'm trying to get down to 1 lap/min average cause that would be like running 4 min/mile on a track, right?  

I hope some one else besides me laughs at my track jokes this morning.  Anyway, good run, good swim, glad it's Friday.

 Distance Time
 Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:58 6:58  145 180
 2 6:54 6:54  142 146
 3 6:44 6:44  147 150
 4 6:35 6:35  152 155
 5 6:28 6:28  155 157
 5.1 :27.97 4:39  161 166
 5.2 :49.02 8:10  165 169
 5.3 :27.10 4:31  161 166
 5.4 :47.93 8:00  165 168
 5.5 :26.95 4:29  161 165
 5.6 :48.94 8:10  165 169
 5.7 :26.87 4:28  161 166
 5.8
 :48.01
 8:00

 166
 170
 5.9
 :26.00
 4:20

 162
 167
 6
 :47.03
 7:49

 166
 170
 6.1
 :26.02
 4:20

 162
 166
 6.2
 :54.72
 9:00

 165
 170
Total
41:18
6:38

151
170
 

Swim Miles: 0.50Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.20
Comments
From Lily on Fri, Feb 04, 2011 at 10:03:49 from 67.199.181.73

Happy Friday Rob :)

From steve ash on Fri, Feb 04, 2011 at 14:22:22 from 98.202.79.72

Whatever gets the conditioning in.. Are you a competitive swimmer also?

From Rob on Fri, Feb 04, 2011 at 14:50:15 from 206.71.84.68

Steve, No I'm actually a very slow swimmer. I just really enjoy doing it to mix things up.

From Rob on Fri, Feb 04, 2011 at 14:56:26 from 206.71.84.68

So that peaked my interest a little bit. Olympic swimmers do 100 M swim in 47 seconds. I just stated that I would like to go 50 meters in 1 minute. I've got a ways to go.

From RivertonPaul on Fri, Feb 04, 2011 at 17:33:45 from 67.42.27.114

Looking good, Rob.

From allie on Fri, Feb 04, 2011 at 18:09:56 from 67.2.42.120

great jokes. great run and swim.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

6:00 am. Met Ryan at Maverik and ran what I swear was our 20 mile loop, humm!  Oh Well, my schedule called for 16 today Ryan's called for 20, so we compromised with 18.  Thermometer said 30 degrees so I only wore 1 layer of clothes wish was just about right, got cold a few times by the river but for the most part pretty comfortable.  We ran out Center street to Utah Lake, went west to Redwood road in Saratoga Springs, back down main street, caught the JRP trail  and ran back to Thanksgiving point and back to Maverik.

Good run, my legs were a little sore and stiff but physically I felt good the whole time.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:48 6:48  156 170
 2 13:43 6:46  158 161
 3 20:18 6:38  160 163
 4 26:51 6:38  159 162
 5 33:38 6:41  159 160
 6 40:13 6:46  158 161
 7 46:58 6:39  159 161
 8 53:39 6:44  159 162
 9 1:00:50 6:46  158 161
 10 1:07:04 6:40  161 164
 11 1:13:39 6:30  158 162
 12 1:20:25 6:40  158 163
 13 1:27:02 6:30  156 160
 14 1:33:30 6:44  159 162
 15 1:40:28 6:42  159 162
 16 1:47:02 6:41  159 161
 17 1:53:39 6:37  160 162
 18 2:00:20 6:45  162 168
Total
 2:00:20 6:41  159 168

Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 18.00
Comments
From allie on Sun, Feb 06, 2011 at 15:49:53 from 67.2.42.120

nice work, rob. solid pace and solid run.

From Rob on Mon, Feb 07, 2011 at 09:38:05 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks Allie. Feel free to join us any Saturday, we start at 6:00 am as long as I'm in town.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.003.000.000.0010.00

Today was suppose to be just an average paced run but I decided in order to get hill workouts in I would add incline to all of my "General Aerobic" runs listed on my schedule.  I may re-evaluate hill workouts after today cause that was hard.  Did a 10 mile rolling hill simulation.  Its probably one of my favorite new workouts but I wouldn't recommend it to anyone I consider a friend :).  Tried to keep the pace up but once I got to the 4% incline range it was pretty tough.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:47 6:47 0% 131 142
 2 13:24 6:37 2% 151 156
 3 19:59 6:35 3% 159 163
 4 25:41 5:42 -1% 161 163
 5
 32:31
 6:51
 3%
 162
 164
 6 39:30
 6:59 4% 165 166
 7 45:18 5:48 -1% 164 166
 8 52:30 7:12 4% 164 165
 9 59:55 7:25 5% 165 168
 10 1:05:33 5:38 -1.5% 161 167
 Total1:05:33
 6:32 1.6% 158 168
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Feb 07, 2011 at 10:05:02 from 204.15.86.83

Does your treadmill do downhill too? Great workout, I love how you are always pushing yourself!

From Rob on Mon, Feb 07, 2011 at 10:23:03 from 206.71.84.68

Yeah, the treadmills at Lifetime do down to -3% decline. Which is a cool feature but kind of dangerous if you ever start feeling lazy.

From Lily on Mon, Feb 07, 2011 at 11:19:45 from 67.199.181.73

I wish our treadmill's did downhill. Nice job as always Rob

From RivertonPaul on Mon, Feb 07, 2011 at 16:14:43 from 67.42.27.114

Nice job, Rob. I'm back to walking, still not normally, but everyday is a bit better.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.002.000.000.0014.00

I'll have to update splits later, crazy morning.  I'm sitting at the airport getting ready to board a flight to NYC.  Good run this morning!  Woke up at 3:45 am cause I knew I'd have to shovel out 1' of snow to get out and had to hurry to get my med/long run in.  Got the the gym at 4:30.

14 miles in 1:28:35  6:19 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 14.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Feb 08, 2011 at 17:32:58 from 174.23.192.205

dedication. great job. have fun (?) in NYC!

From RivertonPaul on Tue, Feb 08, 2011 at 18:02:58 from 67.42.27.114

Nice job.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Crazy, crazy last 24 hours. 

So the New York Marriott Marquis is one of my companies biggest clients and ever since we installed a new network in the hotel it has been plagued with many problems.  This part of the company is not what I normally do but my boss asked me as a last resort if I could fly out here last minute and see if I could fix the problem.  I was really reluctant and didn't want to come at all, mainly cause I didn't think there was anything I could do.  So I got here yesterday afternoon and immediately went to work, worked till about midnight last night but I was in fact able to identify the problem and have put a band-aid fix in place.  I'm pretty excited about the fix though, I actually got to use the skills my company hired me for :) and fix a pretty major problem.

Anyway, to relate this to running.  New York is probably my most favorite place to come for running.  I love to wake up early and run around Central Park....... However, it's frickin cold and windy here, and since I was up late last night, couldn't sleep at all and have a full day full of meetings trying to make our customer love us again I opted for the hotel gym, which as far as hotel gyms go this one is about the coolest I've ever been to.  It's up on the 23rd floor and the treadmills are right against the windows over looking Time Square, really cool feeling to just be 300' in the air running into the most famous intersection in the world.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:06 7:06   
 2 13:57
 6:51   
 3 20:38 6:41   
 4 27:16 6:38   
 5 33:48 6:32   
 6 40:06 6:15   
 Total 40:06 6:39   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Comments
From steve ash on Wed, Feb 09, 2011 at 15:56:39 from 98.202.79.72

That is pretty cool Rob. I've rarely been outside of Utah.

From allie on Wed, Feb 09, 2011 at 23:02:58 from 174.23.192.205

cool run. best of luck with work -- sounds like there is a lot going on.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
11.500.000.000.0011.50

Seriously New York is the coolest place to run in the world,  Tried to get to bed early last night so I could wake up and get a good run in today.  Woke up at 5:30am EST and headed out the door.  It was cold but I had brought my cold weather running gear, at least most of it.  Started from Time Square, ran down Broadway to the North West corner of Central park, ran out Central Park West and ran the entire perimeter of the Park, which I've never done before, that loop was about 6 miles so then from the North East corner of the park I ran the inner circle out and around the big lake,  I usually like running the little dirt trail around the lake but when I got up there it was solid ice so I went back down to the road.  Ran that loop back to Broadway and back to the hotel.  My Garmin never did pick up satellites so I had to come back and MapmyRun it,  I was trying for 12 miles, map my run said 11.5 so I'll go with that.

Central park is the neatest place to run, seriously 100's of people of all fitness levels out early in the morning running, walking or biking around the park.  There were guys there that were probably 2:15 marathoners to little old men just scootin along, all out enjoying the park together.  I can't remember what time my flight is tomorrow but I really hope I have time to get a quick run in the park before I have to leave.

Here is my mapmyrun course in case you ever come to NewYork and need to know an 11.5 mile run.  :)

No watch so 11.5 miles in ~1:20:00  7:00min/mil avg, with traffic on Broadway and my little lake path detour. 





Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 11.50
Comments
From steve ash on Thu, Feb 10, 2011 at 12:16:52 from 98.202.79.72

Pretty cool Rob. Was Central Park as hilly as they say it is?

From Rob on Thu, Feb 10, 2011 at 13:50:01 from 72.255.42.52

It is hilly, but nothing like running up Emigration canyon or anything. It reminded me of my rolling hills simulation I did on the treadmill the other day, up about 2% down about 2%. For a casual run it's not that bad I'm sure at 6:00/mile pace it would really hurt 23 miles into a run.

From Claudio on Thu, Feb 10, 2011 at 15:50:48 from 173.75.176.205

If you have time and feel like trying out something outside Central Park, I am sure you would enjoy running along the water on either sides. This route is gorgeous (I walked it several times in the past, can't wait to go back there and run a little), check it out - it should be about 12 miles from Times Square if you go up to Columbus Circle, then West to the Hudson, then south along the river all the way down to Battery Park and back:

http://www.runyourcity.com/state/ny/new-york-city/running-map-of-new-york-city/manhattan/running-map-battery-park-and-the-west-side

From Rob on Thu, Feb 10, 2011 at 17:39:58 from 72.255.15.184

Claudio, thanks for the tip. That was the funniest thing. I was standing with a co-worker local to NewYork the same time I was reading your post about the run and realized he was telling me the exact thing I was reading. It was kind of Twilight Zoneish, but he was going into detail about running along the river to Battery Park :) I don't have this trip but it sounds like I'll be back.

From RivertonPaul on Fri, Feb 11, 2011 at 12:14:45 from 67.42.27.114

Cool run, Rob.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.000.000.006.50

Quick jog in the Park before going to the Airport 2 hours early to fly home.  Pretty cold this morning at 5:30 am but a nice run.  Ready to go home.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.005.000.000.0020.00

Well, back in Utah.  Texted Ryan yesterday to make sure he was up for a run?, he said sure, I said, 20?, he said sure, I said 28.3? He said NO.  :) 

I was in the mind set that after my busy week I'd be doing pretty well just to get through a 20 miler today.  Un-benounced to me, Ryan had much grander plans in mind.  Apparently he wanted to do the whole run at or below 6:30 pace.  I was feeling good at first and kind of led the pace pushing for the first 5,  we were pretty even for the next 4 then he just kind of took off like a rabbit for a couple miles, I stayed with him but it was rough.  We took a quick bathroom break at the Smiths on Redwood in Saratoga Springs and then took off again pretty quick, but not as fast as before.  Around mile 16 I started really lagging he got about 10 seconds out in front of me and for the last 4 miles it was pretty much all I could do to keep him in range.  Still ended up pretty close to 6:30 for the whole run, his watch said he did it so I must have been about 30 seconds behind to finish :(.  Pretty good though, we used to struggle to keep a 7:00 pace on that exact run 1 year ago. So good progress.

 
 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 6:52 6:52   
 2 13:31 6:39   
 3 20:10 6:36   
 4 26:27 6:17   
 5 33:26 6:59   
 6 39:48 6:22   
 7 46:10 6:22   
 8 52:35 6:25   
 9 58:58 6:23   
 10 1:06:28 6:30   
 11 1:12:43 6:15   
 12 1:18:54 6:11   
 13 1:25:27 6:33   
 14 1:31:49 6:22   
 15 1:38:20 6:31   
 16 1:44:51 6:31   
 17 1:51:20 6:29   
 18 1:57:46 6:26   
 19 2:04:24 6:38   
 20 2:11:04 6:40   
 Total 2:11:04 6:33   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 20.00
Comments
From allie on Sun, Feb 13, 2011 at 22:42:12 from 174.23.192.205

great progress. great running. i bet ryan will be up for the 28.3 next time :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.004.000.0010.00

Today's workout is one of those that I was actually scared last night thinking about doing.  My last tempo run I did I stated that I thought it was easier to just run the whole 10 at LT pace instead of a warm up and then the tempo.  I decided to test this theroy and try to do the workout as intended, 5 mile general aerobic run, 4 mile tempo, 1 mile cool down.  Looking back, it looks like I was able to do to days run at a faster average for the tempo than 2 weeks ago.  So I was wrong, I gave it about all I had today.  It was pretty cool though, at about 1.75 miles I felt my HR flutter I looked down and it had jumped up to 175, then it went back down and instantly I had a (second wind) it all of a sudden felt "easy" for another mile or so.  The last mile hurt, but knowing it was almost over got me through it.  Good run, I always feel really good after getting a hard run under the belt.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:51 6:51  151 165
 2 13:29 6:38  144 147
 3 20:00 6:31  150 153
 4 26:22 6:22  153 157
 5 32:56 6:34  153 157
 6 38:37 5:41  163 166
 7 44:13 5:36  167 175
 8 49:46 5:33  168 169
 9 55:12 5:26  169 171
 10 1:02:22 7:10  158 170
 Total Tempo
 22:165:33
 167
 175
 Total 1:02:22 6:13  157 175
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Feb 14, 2011 at 17:57:52 from 204.15.86.83

I'm really liking the red miles is that special for Valentine's day!?! Ha ha!

From Rob on Mon, Feb 14, 2011 at 20:32:46 from 204.15.86.95

Red for the blood I was spitting up those miles.

From steve ash on Mon, Feb 14, 2011 at 20:39:25 from 98.202.79.72

Really! LOL! Animal.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
11.004.000.000.0015.00

Long, pretty monotonous run on the treadmill, that's about as far as I'd really ever want to go on a treadmill, although I have done 20 before.  Even though running on a treadmill is pretty boring for a long run, I argue that running in the dark isn't a whole lot more stimulating, at least at the gym there are other people to watch and talk to, and TV's to watch the current news.

Had to take a quick break at 7 miles, felt much better for the remainder of the run.  About killed myself the last mile out of pure boredom just wanting to get done. 

Britt gave me an hour massage last night for Valentines day which was very nice, legs felt pretty good after a massage and some good stretching last night.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:38 6:38  160 206
 2 13:13 6:35  146 150
 3 19:43 6:30  149 152
 4 26:09 6:26  151 154
 5 32:31 6:22  153 155
 6 38:49 6:18  155 157
 7 45:11 6:22  154 157
 8 51:36 6:25  143 152
 9 57:58 6:22  152 155
 10 1:04:08 6:10  155 157
 11 1:10:18 6:10  156 159
 12 1:16:26 6:08  158 160
 13 1:22:28 6:02  158 159
 14 1:28:27 5:59  158 159
 15 1:34:09 5:42  159 161
 Total 1:34:09 6:16 154
161


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.00
Comments
From I Just Run on Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 12:59:55 from 67.79.11.242

Whooooo....You're making me tired...or motivated...I'm not sure which one...but your times and endurance looks impressive to me. IJR

From Rob on Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 14:57:30 from 64.55.78.101

:) Thanks. I don't really try to do my long runs that fast I just get bored and try to push the pace to get done with it.

From steve ash on Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 15:04:53 from 98.202.79.72

Yeah, I agree. Your making my chest hurt just reading your chart! Pretty tough workout though. Very nice.

From RivertonPaul on Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 16:59:01 from 67.42.27.114

Nice job. Mr. Tough.

From allie on Tue, Feb 15, 2011 at 19:14:54 from 174.23.192.205

i always say "wow" when i read the paces on your charts. awesome running.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Much needed recovery day today,  I'm pretty sore after the last 2 days of  hard runs.  schedule calls for a lunch run today, but I have lunch plans with an old friend so I'm not sure it will happen.  

6 easyish miles on the TM and then 800 meter swim in the pool.  16 laps in ~20 min.  I didn't really keep track of the time and I got kicked out at 6:00 for swim lessons.  

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:01 7:01  163 214
 213:58 6:57  138 142
 3 20:51 6:53  143 146
 4 27:38 6:48  146 149
 5 34:22 6:44  148 152
 6 41:01 6:39  149 151
 Total 41:01 6:48 148
152

I changed my profile picture to a very embarrassing, very incriminating picture of me taken April of 2009 in Bejing China so that every morning when I look at my blog I will be reminded of why I run.

Swim Miles: 0.50Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.008.000.000.0013.00

A "brisk" 13 miler this morning, didn't really intend for it to be in the marathon pace tempo range but instead of starting the treadmill at 9 mph this morning I started it as 9.5 and progressively increased it each ~mile.  Treadmill reset and water break at mile 9.  Felt pretty good this morning, legs are actually less sore after the run than when I started.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:16 6:16  139 150
 2 12:30 6:14  153 155
 3 18:41 6:11  156 158
 4 24:48 6:07  158 161
 5 30:50 6:02  161 163
 6 36:51 6:01  162 164
 7 42:46 5:55  163 165
 8 48:39 5:53  163 164
 9 54:28 5:49  163 165
 10 1:00:35 6:07  154 160
 11 1:06:37 6:02  159 162
 12 1:12:37 6:00  160 161
 13 1:18:27 5:50  162 163
 Total 1:18:27 6:01 158
165
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 13.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Thu, Feb 17, 2011 at 10:30:49 from 67.42.27.114

You are killing it. I love your picture. You are a total stud now.

From Rob on Thu, Feb 17, 2011 at 10:38:32 from 206.71.84.68

That picture is crazy huh? I get sick to my stomach just looking at it.

From allie on Thu, Feb 17, 2011 at 22:35:29 from 174.23.192.205

way to go, rob. i also love the picture. that's so awesome what you have done.

From Carina on Thu, Feb 17, 2011 at 23:59:32 from 204.15.86.83

I'm pretty sure that is how you looked when you moved in. We couldn't believe how fast you lost the weight! Um... You're running is insane fast these days!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

When I went to bed last night for some reason I thought today was a 10 mile run, when I looked at my schedule this morning I was pleasantly surprised to see that it was just a 6 mile recovery.  So a nice easy run, after that I couldn't decide between lifting weights or swimming.  Decided that the pool would feel better on my sore legs and opted for swimming.  16 laps in ~16 minutes, yea!!  I swam non-stop with flip turns at every length, which I've never done before.  I'll usually stop and turn around after each lap.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:12 7:12  155 187
 2 14:20 7:08  134 138
 3 21:18 6:58  140 144
 4 28:06 6:48  146 148
 5 34:47 6:41  149 153
 6 41:17 6:30  153 155
 Total 41:17 6:52  146 155
 

Swim Miles: 0.50Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Fri, Feb 18, 2011 at 12:20:35 from 67.42.27.114

Stud. Sorry I missed you at the gym.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.003.000.000.0018.00

I noticed a few Saturdays ago that Sasha was looking for a running partner so I decided it might be fun to give him a shout out and see if he was interested in letting me run with him today.  Our Schedules didn't quite workout since I needed to be home by 8:45 for babysitting duties and he didn't want to go earlier than 7:00.  So This morning I woke up drove out to his house at 6:00 and ran the Provo River Trail up to University Ave and back by myself.  I took it pretty easy cause I didn't know how bad Sasha was planning on beating me up.

Met Sasha at 7:00 and went the other way on the trail out to the lake.  He asked me if I was up for a 5 mile Tempo run, I said I was, so at 2 miles in we hit the trail and set off at sub 6:00/min pace.  Felt harder than I thought it should from the start and about 2 miles into it he told me we were going to cut it short since I was dropping below 90 sec 1/4's.  :(  Turns out he was giving me a little fitness test so he could evaluate my fitness level.  He wasn't to hard on me though and cut me a little slack since I was already 9 miles into the run when we started.

When I asked him to run this Saturday I also asked him if he could go over my training and let me know what he thought, so we discussed his views on my running, I actually expected to hear most of what he said, basically I run my base miles to fast.  I already knew that I suppose but just really enjoy running faster, I think it's cause usually I run alone and running faster keeps my mind occupied, if I'm running with someone else it's easier to slow down and just talk.  So anyway, here are the things I got out of his advice.

1. Run base miles slower.

2. On tempo runs if I can't maintain sub 6:00 pace stop the tempo and jog.

3. No more short 6 mile runs.

4. I expected him to tell me I was too fat, he didn't seem to concerned that I weigh 25 lbs more than him and we are roughly the same height.

5. He did tell me I have a really efficient stride, which I kind of knew but it made me feel good to hear from someone else.

Had a really great run this morning, thanks a lot Sasha for the advice.  Oh! and the weather was perfect, really quite warm.

Split the runs up, even though there was only a 10 minute break in between I felt it was really 2 seperate workouts. 

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:03 7:03   
 2 14:04 7:01   
 3 21:20 7:16   
 4 28:23 7:03   
 5 35:32 7:09   
 6 42:36 7:04   
 7 49:41 7:05   
 Total 49:41 7:05   

 

 
 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:43 7:43   
 2 15:21 7:38   
 3 21:09 5:48   
 4 27:16 6:07   
 5 33:48 6:32   
 6 42:19 8:31   
 7 50:39 8:20   
 8 57:59 7:20   
 9 1:05:43 7:44   
 10 1:13:41 7:58   
 11 1:23:31 9:50 
  
 Total 1:23:31 7:35   

 

 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 18.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.500.000.001.5011.00

Well, this was my attempt to slow my run down,  I just don't feel comfortable running much slower than 7:00 pace on the treadmill,  and I figure if my HR stays below 150 it's in the General Aerobic range.  Threw in some 1/4's at the end for a little speed work.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:02 7:02  145 171
 2 13:55 6:53
  140 144
 3 20:42 6:47  144 147
 4 27:26 6:44  147 151
 5 34:05 6:39  150 152
 6 40:44 6:39  150 153
 7 47:18 6:34  152 155
 8 55:21 7:03  145 151






 8.25 104.93 7:00
  139 149
 8.50 80.99 5:25  160 164
 8.75 110.93 7:22
  153 164
 9 79.00 5:16  160 166
 9.25 112.00 7:28  157 166
 9.50 78.92 5:16  161 168
 9.75 115.00 7:32  156 168
 10 77.90 5:12  160 168
 10.25 113.48 7:29  156 168
 10.50 76.35 5:11  161 169
 10.75 114.94 7:31  157 170
 11.00 72.91 4:48  164 173
Total 1:13:53 6:42  149173

 I took my 8 year old snowboard for his first time today, Perfect day wish I could have gotten of the Chickidee lift.


 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 11.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

New version of my rolling hills simulation,  I set the treadmill to 8.5 mph and never changed the speed again, 3 sets of progressive hill climbs for 3 miles and then a 1 mile rest at 0% incline in between each set,   2% = comfortable  3%= feels like I'm working  4% = hurts.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:00 7:00 0% 157 205
 2 14:02 7:02 2% 145 149
 3 21:05 7:03 3% 153 156
 4 28:08 7:03 4% 160 163
 5 35:10 7:02 0% 150 162
 6 42:13 7:03 2% 154 157
 7 49:15 7:02 3% 158 161
 8 56:18 7:03 4% 163 166
 9 1:03:18 7:00 0% 148 164
 10 1:10:20 7:02 2% 154 157
 11 1:17:23 7:03 3% 159 162
 12 1:24:25 7:02 4% 164 166
 Total 1:24:25 7:011,425'
 155 166
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Chad Robinson on Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 18:16:01 from 67.136.62.186

Nice attempt at keeping the miles "slower". I run all my runs solo and 90% of them at night. If you are looking for a night time running partner to keep you in the low 7's a couple times a week I would be very interested (I live in Riverton/Herriman).

From Rob on Tue, Feb 22, 2011 at 19:33:57 from 204.15.86.95

I actually do most my running between 4:30 - 5:00 am. I have a hard time finding running partners :). Thanks for asking though, unfortunately night time running never fits my schedule

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.001.0010.00

Woke up way to early this morning and didn't even try to get back to sleep, was at the gym on the treadmill at 4:30.  Felt really good from the start this morning, one of those days where I just kind of felt like I was floating the whole run.  Ran my last mile very fast just cause I could.  Went and lifted weights for about 30 minutes and then sat in the hottub for another 15.  Great way to start off a busy busy work day,  actually busy busy work month.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:00 7:00  131 156
 2 13:53 6:53  138 141
 3 20:37 6:43  141 144
 4 27:12 6:35  146 149
 5 33:42 6:30  149 151
 6 40:39 6:27  151 152
 7 47:02 6:23  152 154
 8 53:20 6:18  153 155
 9 59:32 6:12  155 157
 10 1:04:44 5:12  162 168
 Total 1:04:44 6:25  147 168

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.003.000.000.0012.00

Yesterday in an attempt to eat healthier I went to the grocery store before work and stocked up on a bunch of fruit to snack on through the day instead of eating a bad lunch.  Well that turned out to be a bad mistake and made this mornings run pretty miserable.  Guess it's back to Peanut butter and Honey sandwiches for breakfast and hamburgers for lunch.

Other than the stomach issues I felt good this morning,  once again pushed a little harder than I should have, threw in a 3 mile MP Tempo run, started out intending to go 4 but my stomach said no.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:36 6:36  148 166
 2 13:05 6:29  146 154
 3 19:27 6:22  149 152
 4 25:45 6:18  152 154
 5 31:59 6:14  154 156
 6 38:09 6:10  157 159
 7 44:15 6:06  157 158
 8 50:50 6:35  143 156
 9 57:49
 5:59  157 161
 10 1:03:45 5:56  160 161
 11 1:09:32 5:47  162 164
 12 1:15:26 6:46  151 163
 Total 1:15:26 6:16  153 164

Talk to Riverton Paul at the gym today, he is looking good and walking fairly normal.  Hopefully he will be back at it soon.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Thu, Feb 24, 2011 at 17:38:47 from 67.42.27.114

Great to see you. I didn't look great, but you did.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.001.000.0010.00

Such a busy work day I didn't even get a chance to get online all day, which is weird cause that's kind of what I do.  Long story short, I was configuring switches/routers/ and access points all day long for 3 large conferences coming up so I didn't have a chance to get on.

Just a normal 10 mile run on the treadmill with a fast last mile for fun.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:58 6:58  128 143
 2 13:51 6:53  138 143
 3 20:34 6:43  143 146
 4 27:09 6:35  149 152
 5 33:39 6:30  150 152
 6 40:10 6:31  151 154
 7 46:40 6:30  152 156
 8 53:10 6:30  152 155
 9 59:28 6:18  155 157
 10 1:05:35 5:37  160 169
 Total105:35
 6:30  147 169

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.006.000.000.0016.00

I feel bad, I was suppose to go run with Sasha again this morning and was looking forward to it.  Even verified that we were still on last night but when I woke and this morning and saw a 2' snowdrift in my driveway I decided it probably wasn't that great and idea even if Sasha was still up to it.  I'll probably read about every ones great long runs in the snow this morning while I was wimping it out at the gym.  Oh Well.

I'll probably pay for this run a bit tomorrow but I had fun pushing the pace, my right hip started bothering me a little bit, which is strange I've never had hip issues.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:37 6:37  146 178
 2 13:14 6:35  147 161
 3 19:45 6:31  149 151
 4 26:12 6:27  153 156
 5 32:34 6:22  155 159
 6 38:52 6:18  157 159
 7 45:06 6:14  159 161
 8 51:16 6:10  161 163
 9 57:12 5:56  163 168
 10 1:03:28 6:16  149 163
 11 1:09:43 6:15  156 158
 12 1:15:54 6:11  158 159
 13 1:22:00 6:06  160 162
 14 1:28:03 6:03  161 162
 15 1:34:02 5:59  163 164
 16 1:39:51 5:49  165 167
 Total1:39:55
 6:13  156 167

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 16.00
Comments
From Rob Murphy on Sat, Feb 26, 2011 at 17:01:13 from 24.10.248.6

Awesome new picture! That dude has to be tha fastest "Clydesdale" in the U.S. Is he any relation to you?

From Rob on Sat, Feb 26, 2011 at 17:31:45 from 166.205.9.216

:). I've considered gaining some weight back to see how fast I could run at 200lbs then I realize that would be counter productive.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.005.000.0012.00

Big workout today, I was really nervous about it all day yesterday and really tried to relax and eat better.   Took, 2 naps yesterday 1 before church and 1 after, tried to do stretches all throughout the day and ate pretty good, but we got invited over to some neighbors for desert last night which was counter productive, I just had a small piece of desert pizza.  mmmm!!

Woke up to early again and decided to just go get it over with, wore my fast shoes today, I forgot how comfortable they are.   5 mile brisk warm up 5 mile hard LT tempo (5:40 goal pace), 2 mile cool down.   I was surprised how easy I got into stride in the tempo, felt pretty relaxed to start, started bumping it up a little bit, around mile 2.5 I found a nice breathing rhythm and held on pretty good.  At the 3.75 mark I started to feel things come undone a bit, legs were shaking and my form was falling apart, I also felt a slight pain in my left knee, not bad enough to stop me but worried me a bit.  At the 4 mile mark I was torn between slowing down or speeding up.  I wanted to take it back down to 5:40 pace but Sasha's comment about my neural drive problem popped into my head and I decided to push that last mile hard.  Did my last 1/4 mile at 5:24 pace.

Was really happy when it was done, got a quick drink and finished with a 2 mile cool down then I stretched and rolled out a bit and hit the hot tub.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:16 6:16  151 172
 2 12:30 6:14  154 156
 3 18:41 6:11  156 158
 4 24:59 6:18  155 157
 5 31:16 6:17  158 160
 6 37:02 5:46  165 167
 7 42:44 5:42  167 169
 8 48:22 5:38  169 170
 9 53:59 5:37  170 171
 10 59:27 5:28  171 173
 11 1:06:02 6:35  151 156
 12 1:12:33 6:31  153 155
Total Tempo
 28:11
5:38

 168
 173
Total
1:12:38
6:02

 160
 174
 


Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Feb 28, 2011 at 17:17:35 from 204.15.86.83

Nice job!!

From RivertonPaul on Mon, Feb 28, 2011 at 18:15:40 from 67.42.27.114

Big! Nicely done. You look great.

From Rob on Mon, Feb 28, 2011 at 20:10:20 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks guys! I hope your not refering to my picture Paul.

So I just found out I don't get home from Istanbul Turkey until the day of the Ogden Marathon. I'm really upset and not sure what to do. I've already put so much effort into it I don't want to just waste it.

From allie on Mon, Feb 28, 2011 at 20:30:10 from 174.23.253.123

wow. great workout, rob.

From Lily on Tue, Mar 01, 2011 at 10:07:17 from 67.199.178.210

Nice job!

I take it your new profile picture is a 'before' shot? You look amazing now Rob-o

From Rob on Tue, Mar 01, 2011 at 10:11:34 from 206.71.84.68

Yep, that picture was taken April 10th 2009. So almost exactly 2 years ago. I guess I need to put a skinny picture back on. I've noticed that since I put that profile picture up my hit count has gone way down. So either people don't recognize me or just hate fat people. :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Todays run was a bit of a wreck, was going to run 15 miles,  didn't happen, was going to do a hill simulation, didn't happen.  A combination of still being sore from yesterdays tempo run, a terrible day of taking clients out to lunch and a late dinner and eating a ridiculous amount of really bad food, and being very depressed to find out that I probably can't run Ogden Marathon now due to work conflict.

I really enjoy my job, and for the most part think it actually enables me to run, but it is not at all conducive to  running marathons.  Seeing that you need to be able to plan out at least 6 months in advance for a marathon, and sometimes I don't find out my work schedule until 2 weeks before something happens, it really creates a problem and I don't know what to do about it.  I've been visualizing the Ogden course on my runs for 3 months now, so this morning not having any thing to visualize it was really quite... lame. After about 7 miles I kind of found a groove, but by then I was tired.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:00 7:00  142 173
 2 13:54 6:54 1% 145 148
 3 20:36 6:40 2% 155 159
 4 27:12 6:36  141 157
 5 33:51 6:39  149 153
 6 40:26 6:35  152 157
 7 46:57 6:31  153 158
 8 53:23 6:26  154 156
 9 59:45 6:22  155 157
 10 1:06:15 6:30  154 157
 11 1:12:33 6:18  156 158
 12 1:18:33 6:00  161 163
 Total1:18:33
 6:32  151 163

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From steve ash on Tue, Mar 01, 2011 at 12:35:55 from 98.202.79.72

Hang in there Rob. I've had that happen to me also and it sucks but there will always be another day to do battle. By the way It's pretty amazing to look at that pic of your former self and then read your workout entries. I'ts like night and day.. You have definitely come a long way.

From Rob Murphy on Tue, Mar 01, 2011 at 12:46:04 from 205.127.70.66

Same thing happened to me last year Rob. I registered early for Ogden and then realized I had the state track meet that day. Was really bummed and actually found myself hoping that none of my runners would qualify!

Did Utah Valley instead and it all worked out.

From Rob on Tue, Mar 01, 2011 at 12:51:28 from 206.71.84.68

Yeah, Utah Valley is my next option. As of now I am in town that week.

From RivertonPaul on Tue, Mar 01, 2011 at 14:17:14 from 67.42.27.114

Yeah, Rob, I'm sorry for your conflict. Turkey is turning out to be a real turkey for you.

From allie on Tue, Mar 01, 2011 at 18:58:24 from 174.23.253.123

sorry about the work conflict. something will work out for another race though.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

OK, I've done it.  I've written off Ogden and signed up for UVM yesterday.  Now my training is off 3 weeks I should probably take a week off and then start up again fresh.

12 Mile normal morning progressive run,  I noticed that my HR was about 3-5bpm higher than normal which probably should have made me slow it down a bit, but I didn't,  I just continued to torture my self like I do every day.  :)  It wasn't really that bad, but strange that my HR was high, that was really the only thing out of the ordinary.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:00 7:00  151 175
 2 13:46 6:46  141 145
 3 20:25 6:39  147 162
 4 26:56 6:31  157 171
 5 33:18 6:22  156 165
 6 39:36 6:18  157 161
 7 45:50 6:14  159 161
 8 52:00 6:10  161 162
 9 58:06 6:06  162 163
 10 1:04:30 6:24  155 162
 11 1:10:52 6:22  156 158
 12 1:17:04 6:12  156 158
 Total1:17:09
 6:25  155 163

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Carina on Wed, Mar 02, 2011 at 10:37:03 from 204.15.86.83

What?!? No Ogden? I'm thinking I may just do Boston and forget Ogden too!!

From Rob on Wed, Mar 02, 2011 at 15:38:58 from 206.71.84.68

Yeah, I found out I will be flying home from Turkey the day of the race. I thought I got home the day before. Actually probably better for me to be in town for 3 weeks before the race instead of being jetlaged.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Running just wasn't doing it for me this morning, I'm sure it has something to do with Snowboarding for the first time in 5 years yesterday.

Set out to run 12, figured I'd be doing well to go 10, really wanted to quit at 6, forced myself to go 8.

10 laps in the pool to relax.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:27 6:27  139 156
 2 12:47 6:20  153 157
 3 18:59 6:12  157 160
 4 25:37 6:38  155 158
 5 31:59 6:22  155 156
 6 38:38 6:39  154 158
 7 45:09 6:31  156 157
 8 51:10 6:01  161 168
 Total 51:15 6:23  154 168

Swim Miles: 0.30Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Mar 03, 2011 at 09:29:43 from 204.15.86.83

You beat me today!!

From RivertonPaul on Thu, Mar 03, 2011 at 10:44:09 from 174.253.181.48

I'm glad you didn't simply run yourself into the ground. Your body should thank you. I'm sorry Ogden is not panning out for you.

From Lily on Thu, Mar 03, 2011 at 15:39:01 from 67.199.178.210

Sometimes our little legs just need a break. Or a long break in my case.

You still pounded out a great 8 miles. Nice!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

Looked at my calender and it looks like I will be working the next 20 days straight, no days off, 2 different jobs.  Fun Fun.  Since I have a busy work day tomorrow I convinced Ryan to do our Saturday run this morning.  We went out very fast for some reason, kept going fast even when we kept telling each other we were going to fast.  At mile 14 we hit the JRT and it was much better suited for ice skates than running shoes which slowed us down a lot.  Still 6:32 avg for the whole run.  I was very happy to see that my treadmill times somewhat equate to road times.  I've been on the treadmill so much lately I was afraid it was making me over confident.  I can still average a faster pace on a treadmill, but if the road were perfectly flat with no wind I'm sure it would be close.

 
 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:35 6:35  155 
 2 12:59 6:24  157 
 3
 19:12 6:13  162 
 4 25:16 6:04  166 
 5 31:31 6:15  159 
 6 37:50 6:19  162 
 7 44:22 6:32  162 
 8 50:52 6:31  160 
 9 57:24 6:32  161 
 10 1:04:05 6:41  161 
 11 1:10:30 6:25  161 
 12 1:16:54 6:24  162 
 13 1:23:31 6:37  152 
 14 1:30:21 6:50  157 
 15 1:37:12 6:51  159 
 16 1:44:04 6:52  159 
 17 1:50:56 6:52  160 
 18 1:57:40 6:44  162 
 Total 1:57:40 6:32  160 169

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 18.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Fri, Mar 04, 2011 at 11:35:26 from 67.42.27.114

Nice run. I've really struggled with motivation, as you can tell.

From Carina on Fri, Mar 04, 2011 at 17:52:41 from 204.15.86.83

Great Run, I love getting the long run done on Friday so I don't have to worry about it on the weekend. Have fun at work :)

From Rob on Fri, Mar 04, 2011 at 18:10:33 from 72.254.56.97

Paul, once your leg is better I'll go on some runs with you and get you motivated.

Carina, Friday long runs are the bomb. I'm not sure why I didn't think of this earlier. Doesn't do me much good this weekend but having Saturday and Sunday to sleep in a little longer is a great idea.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.004.000.000.0012.00

I'm amazed how well my body is responding to my training this year, last year an 18 mile run would have put me down for at least 3 days regardless of the pace, but this morning I woke up feeling completely normal not sore at all from yesterdays hard run.  I started out kind of slow expecting to hurt but it never did so I did my normal progression run.  The last 4 miles I did a declined sub 6:00 tempo run for no other reason than I think its fun to run fast. 

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:56 6:56  152 187
 2 13:37 6:42  144147
 3 20:07 6:30  149 152
 4 26:33 6:26  152 154
 5 32:55 6:22  154 156
 6 39:13 6:18  156 158
 7 45:31 6:18  157 159
 8 51:38 6:07  159 160
 9 57:57 5:49 -1% 159 162
 10 1:03:52 5:55 -0.5% 154 162
 11 1:09:44 5:52 -0.5% 161 162
 12 1:15:26 5:42 -1% 161 163
 Total1:15:26
 6:15  155 163

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Sat, Mar 05, 2011 at 19:13:40 from 174.23.253.123

nice week. good luck with all the working...

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
11.500.000.000.0011.50

So, I'm doing a conference for Omniture/Adobe downtown Salt Lake this week.  They have me staying at the Grand America which is really odd since I live 25 miles away but anyway it gave me a good chance to explore this morning.  I've lived in Utah pretty much my whole life but sadly don't know the Salt Lake City area real well, I was a sheltered child :)   Was really glad when I woke up and it wasn't raining or snowing out I really didn't want to run on the stuffy hotel treadmill.

Very Humbling run this morning, it really kicked my butt.  Ran from the hotel to 800 S. Up 800 (killer hill from 10th to 13th) wouldn't even really call that part "running" up Sunny Side around the Zoo and then pretty much followed the D-News marathon path for about 5 miles.  It made me have second thoughts about running D-News again.  I think that is the hardest 5 miles of the whole race, and just being there again brought dark memories.

All and all a good run, nice morning for a run.  Very slow going, but I probably needed a good change of pace and elevation.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:53 6:53   
 2 14:25 7:32   
 3 22:46 8:21   
 4 30:28 7:52   
 5 37:56 7:28   
 6 44:39 6:43   
 7 51:51 7:12   
 8 59:11 7:20   
 9 1:06:13 7:02   
 10 1:13:15 7:02   
 11 1:20:21 7:06   
 11.5 1:23:45 6:56   
 Total 1:23:45 7:17   


Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 11.50
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Mar 07, 2011 at 10:09:47 from 204.15.86.83

Ha Ha, I can't believe they're paying for a hotel for you, that rocks! Sounds like a great run this morning!!

From steve ash on Mon, Mar 07, 2011 at 10:18:53 from 98.202.79.72

It's good for the soul and the legs Rob! I need to do that route soon. People always tell me how they have done St George and this or that marathon but when someone tells me that they have done D-News they immediately get my attention.

From RivertonPaul on Mon, Mar 07, 2011 at 11:25:47 from 67.42.27.114

Bummer you have to slum in the Grand America.

From allie on Mon, Mar 07, 2011 at 17:12:32 from 161.38.218.168

ah, it appears you have discovered sunnyside up! isn't it great?

the d-news course is also great. you know you want to...

From Rob on Wed, Mar 09, 2011 at 09:24:46 from 72.254.86.179

If I'm in town I'm sure I will do D-News again. I did actually like it.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.006.000.000.0012.00

What happened to spring?  I saw it here just yesterday.  

Progressive 12 mile tempo run on the hotel treadmill, same type of treadmills as at LifeTime so I felt kind of at home.  

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 6:34 6:34   
 2 13:05 6:31   
 3 19:27 6:22   
 4 25:41 6:14   
 5 31:51 6:10   
 6 37:58 6:07   
 7 44:01 6:03   
 8 50:02 6:01   
 9 56:03 6:01   
 10 1:02:10 6:07   
 11 1:08:09 5:59   
 12 1:13:58 5:49   
 Total 1:14:04 6:10   
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Lily on Tue, Mar 08, 2011 at 09:47:54 from 67.199.178.210

Hola! Yeah, where is Spring? This is the time of year I feel like picketing mother nature in all her bi-polar behavior.

Nice splits!

From Carina on Tue, Mar 08, 2011 at 10:33:07 from 204.15.86.83

Spring in Utah is such a tease, it's not my favorite! Nice run today!!

From RivertonPaul on Tue, Mar 08, 2011 at 11:27:12 from 67.42.27.114

Nice to know the Grand America has decent treadmills. :)

From Lily on Tue, Mar 08, 2011 at 11:35:00 from 67.199.178.210

Sounds like Paul has a Grand America stay in order. He books a room just to use the tm's. haha

From Rob on Tue, Mar 08, 2011 at 11:37:01 from 72.254.57.253

The most expensive Gym membership ever.

From RivertonPaul on Tue, Mar 08, 2011 at 11:39:20 from 67.42.27.114

It would be for me, especially since I can't even use the treadmills these days.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

I really didn't want to run this morning, I was up late last night fixing some self inflicted network issue and woke up sore and tired.  But I went anyway, decided to just take it nice and slow today, which I did.  I don't think I had a single mile under 7 minutes, probably 7:45 avg for the entire run.

I've always wanted to run in Liberty park, I had visions of it being like running in Central Park but smaller, and in Utah.  Well, it wasn't even close to Central Park, me and some guy walking his dog, and really wet and drippy.  (from the trees)  I took 2 loops around the park and decided that was enough so I headed up to the Avenues, worked my way up thinking I could get to the Capitol and found out I had to go down a really slippery trail and back up one.  So down and up around the Capitol building and then back down the hill along main street back to the hotel.

OK run,  Today is my last day downtown Salt Lake, I'm off to New Orleans tomorrow.  That should make for some interesting running stories, the week after Marti Gras and spring break.

No splits today, my watch was wiggin out the whole time so I gave up on it.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.004.006.000.0010.00

Well, I got to see my family for about 6 hours last night for the month.  Had a 7:00am flight this morning (I'm using GoGo In flight service right now) So I was up at 3:30am and on the treadmill by 4:10.  Figured today was a perfect day to run a fast sub 1 hour 10 miler since I was in a hurry.  Didn't really feel up to it but did it anyway and feel good for it now.

Pretty nervous about getting my training in in New Orleans for the next 2 weeks, anyone have experience running there?  Is it safe to run early in the morning there?  I was thinking last night if there was any place in the US. I would least rather go to for 2 weeks than New Orleans.  Philidelphia and Detroit were the only other ones I could come up with.

Anyway, good hard run.  Probably my second or third fastest 10 miler ever, and the other times were either downhill, or I cheated and put the treadmill on negative incline for part of it.  Didn't do that today.  HR monitor was packed in my suitcase, I wish I would have had it.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 5:56 5:56   
 2 11:52 5:56   
 3 17:45 5:53   
 4 23:38 5:53   
 5 29:26 5:48   
 6 35:14 5:47   
 7 40:59 5:45   
 8 46:41 5:42   
 9 52:20 5:39   
 10 57:51 5:31   
 Total 57:53 5:48   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From steve ash on Thu, Mar 10, 2011 at 11:15:43 from 64.134.228.233

Burn it up Rob! Nice progression run.

From Rob on Thu, Mar 10, 2011 at 11:50:14 from 72.254.59.199

Thanks Steve! A tempo run right before a long flight is a terrible idea. My legs are killing me right now.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Wasn't feeling adventurous enough to run around NewOrleans in the dark this morning, so I went to the Hotel Gym,  Got on the treadmill and my toenail was bothering me so I did something wild and crazy and did the eliptical trainer for 1 hour instead. 

Cut my toenails and now it's all good.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
19.000.000.000.0019.00

Well, I did it.  I've been worried for weeks how I was going to get my long run in in New Orleans.  I asked my Sister In Law who is from New Orleans if it was safe to run from Canal street out to Autobahn park, she told me "No, it's to far"  this morning I asked the same question to the Hotel Front Desk clerk he said "It's kind of far"  I take it distance running isn't a big thing here in the deep south.  That's not really what I had in mind as being safe.

Anyway, great run.  Perfect temperatures, beautiful route and just a lot of fun, actually a good amount of runners in the Park,  I planned on doing a sort of loop, out St. Charles Ave. around the Zoo and back along the Mississippi, but I couldn't find my road back and decided to turn around and come back the same way I went which added about 1 mile to the run.

I actually started on the hotel treadmill at 5:00am and ran 6 miles waiting for it to get light and then did the 13 mile outside run.  Very fast average pace for 19 miles, not sure if it's because it's negative sea level, or just a completely flat route.

 DistanceTime
 Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:35 6:35  166 199
 2 13:10 6:35  138 141
 3 19:40 6:30  142 144
 4 26:06 6:26  145 148
 5 32:28 6:22  147 150
 6 38:46 6:18  150 153
 Total 38:49 6:27  148 153

Oh, man.  I forgot to turn auto lap on.  So I had to do some creative math to get my splits.  Total time and pace is correct.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
16:126:12   
2
12:38
6:26



3
19:00
6:22



4
25:36
6:36



5
31:56
6:20



6
38:25
6:29



7
44:47
6:22



8
51:10
6:23



9
57:30
6:20



10
1:04:07
6:37



11
1:10:45
6:38



12
1:17:05
6:20



13
1:23:25
6:20



Total
1:23:25
6:25

161
166

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 19.00
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Mar 12, 2011 at 15:03:49 from 204.15.86.83

Nice work getting your long run in. I'm jealous of all the adventurous places you get to run!

From Rob on Sat, Mar 12, 2011 at 17:27:52 from 72.254.160.231

It is fun to run in new places, it's kind of stressful sometimes trying to find a place to run in a new City. But once I do I'm always happy I did. Tempting to just run on the hotel treadmill.

From Burt on Sun, Mar 13, 2011 at 14:16:28 from 72.223.90.79

I guess the farther you go, the less safe it is.

Anyway, since you judged me after I said not to in my blog, I'm going to judge you on the picture. Plus, I used to be fat, too, so I can. How can someone that big run so fast???

LOL! Great job man! That's awesome.

From Rob on Sun, Mar 13, 2011 at 14:38:48 from 72.254.160.231

You know the old saying "once an alchoholic, always and alchohlic"?

It's the same with being "fat, once a fat guy always a fat guy".

From Burt on Sun, Mar 13, 2011 at 18:55:57 from 72.223.90.79

Amen to that.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.004.000.000.0012.00

Stupid Daylight savings, I'm tempted to start running in the evenings but life is so much more predictable at 4:30 in the morning,  I pretty much know nothing else is going on at that time.

Did my normal 12 mile progressive run on the hotel treadmill, at least the hotel gym lets me control the thermostat so I can make it nice and cold in there.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:36 6:36  138 172
 2 13:11 6:35  136 139
 3 19:41 6:30  143 148
 4 26:08 6:27  148 153
 5 32:30 6:22  153
 156
 6 38:48 6:18  155 157
 7 45:02 6:14  157 161
 8 51:12 6:10  159 162
 9 57:18 6:06  160 162
 10 1:03:26 6:08  151 160
 11 1:09:26 6:00  161 163
 12 1:15:15 5:49  165 167
 Total 1:15:16 6:16  152 167

Seeing that I'm down here in Louisiana the locals told me to beware of Crocs in nearby rivers and ponds.  Good advice! 

Sasha, Allie are you OK??

 


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Mar 14, 2011 at 20:50:56 from 174.23.253.123

ha! hahaha.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.004.0012.00

Pretty big workout today,  decided to do 6 mile warm up and then 4 X 1 mile repeats with 1/2 mile jog in between.  On my second one I decided I better do my fastest repeat on #3 cause I could tell I'd be dead by 4.  Goal was to progressivly work up and run it in 5:00 flat. but 0.5 miles into it I found out the hotel treadmill only went to 12 MPH making it impossible to get a 5:00.  O'well.  workout kicked my butt, but I feel great for doing it now.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:38 6:38  151 195
 2 13:13 6:35  163 210
 3 19:44 6:31  143 146
 4 26:08 6:24  145 150
 5 32:30 6:22  147 151
 6 38:48 6:18  150 153
 7
 44:07
 5:19  157 167
 7.5 47:48 7:22  151 167
 8.5 53:05 5:17  165 172
 9 56:50 7:30  153 171
 10 1:01:57 5:07  170 176
 10.5 1:05:54 7:53  155 175
 11.5 1:11:11 5:17  168 174
 12 1:15:03 7:36  155 173
 Total 1:15:08 6:14  155 176

 I updated my picture back to a more current "skinny" picture.  I noticed that since I had put my fat picture on I started dropping viewers like flies.  Don't blame you, it was a terrible picture.  I wouldn't want to look at it if I didn't have to either.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Lily on Tue, Mar 15, 2011 at 11:08:44 from 67.199.178.210

nice splits.

Your new picture on the side is pretty sweet. It shows off the new you. I am still amazed at the transformation. Obviously you did some hard work.

From Carina on Tue, Mar 15, 2011 at 11:16:12 from 204.15.86.83

Mile repeats always kick my trash!! Nice work!!!!!

From jtshad on Wed, Mar 16, 2011 at 10:14:23 from 204.134.132.225

Great workout! Hope you are having a good time on Naw-Olins!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

I've really been pounding myself pretty hard the last week or so, and this morning after yesterdays 1 mile repeats I was feeling it, my knee hurts, my hip hurts, and I feel like I'm coming down with a slight cold.  So this morning I really just wanted to take it easy.  I knew that I wouldn't take it easy on the treadmill, so I got out and ran the route I did last Saturday.  St. Charles Ave is really well lit since the Trolly goes down that road, and there were actually a lot of runners out, so I felt totally safe. When I got to Autobahn park it looked very dark but I saw quite a few runners in there, so I did one loop around the park.

Ran back, had to run past the hotel .35 miles to get my even 12 in for the day.  Pretty nice run.  Perfect temperatures, no croc sightings.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:31 7:31   
 2 14:41 7:10   
 3 22:04 7:23   
 4 29:19 7:15   
 5 36:45 7:26   
 6 44:30 7:45   
 7 51:59 7:29   
 8 59:14 7:15   
 9 1:06:35 7:21   
 10 1:13:58 7:23   
 11 1:21:25 7:27   
 12 1:28:56 7:31   
 Total 1:28:56 7:23   

Oh, I wanted to mention too that I downloaded Ryan Hall's "Running with Joy" book on my iPad yesterday.  Pretty interesting, not the greatest book in the world, if we could somehow convince him to join FRB we wouldn't need to buy the book :).  It's pretty much just his running journal leading up to Boston last year, with a brief history of his running career so far.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Wed, Mar 16, 2011 at 10:49:46 from 67.42.27.114

Good job listening to your body. Don't get seriously injured.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I am the new official poster child of how not to train for a Marathon,  going on my 2nd week of non-stop work, travel, long hours, different cities, bad food and over training.  I am an absolute wreck.  Felt I was getting sick yesterday, so I started taking Emergen-C every 2 hours, but it was a loosing battle.  Went to bed at 7:00 last night but when I woke up this morning I was in full on sick mode.  First time I remember being sick in probably 2 years.

Went down to the hotel gym anyway, did 50 minutes on the elliptical just to get moving and now another busy day at work.  I really hate this feeling, hopefully I can fight it off soon.

Comments
From Carina on Thu, Mar 17, 2011 at 19:02:55 from 204.15.86.83

I hope you feel better soon! Being sick is the worst!!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Felt a little better today, of course that could just be the drugs talking.  I decided to still take another day off from running, did 30 minutes on the hotel elliptical. Followed by light stretching and lifting.

I thought on top of having a cold that I had pulled a groin muscle or hip or something which was very upsetting, but after talking to my wife last night she told me there are lots of lymph nodes in that area that were probably swollen from being sick.  That made a lot more sense and made me feel a little bit better that maybe I only had 1 related problem instead of 2.  

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Still pretty sick but I really didn't want to go 4 days without running so I got up and went to the gym just in case I wasn't able to run.  Started out very conservative,  one really nice thing about being in pretty good shape is that I can run a ~7:00 pace without needing to breathe hard.  Took a mile or so to get the soreness worked out but started feeling OK.  If I would have known how easy it was going to be I would have woke up an extra 1/2 hour and gone 3-4 more.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:34 7:34  128 160
 2 15:01 7:27  126 129
 3 22:20 7:19  133 137
 4 29:28 7:08  139 142
 5 36:01 7:03  142 144
 6 43:59 6:58  146 149
 7 50:58 6:59  146 149
 8 57:37 6:39  149 151
 9 1:04:40 7:03  140 149
 10 1:11:33 6:53  146 149
 11 1:18:13 6:40  150 153
 12 1:24:38 6:25  153 156
 Total 1:24:39 7:00  141 156
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Mar 19, 2011 at 12:06:32 from 204.15.86.83

Nice work, I wish 7min mile was easy for me!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

When I woke up this morning I would have guessed I was feeling about 80%, after my run I've downgraded myself to 70%.  Did my "regular" New Orleans run, out St. Charles, around the Autobahn Zoo by the Mississippi and back.  At the 1/2 way point there is a little park where people go and sit and watch the river, (I guess) and I really had to use the bathroom.  Good news, there was a bathroom, Bad news, it was the most disgusting restroom I have ever been in, and I've been in truck stops in Mississippi.  Anyway, sometimes you gotta do what ya gotta do.

Pretty humid this morning, and didn't feel great, but very happy that I was at least finally able to do a normalish run.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:45 6:45  144 151
 2 13:19 6:34  150 151
 3 20:04 6:45  149 151
 4 26:54 6:50  148 151
 5 34:02 7:08  144 149
 6 41:07 7:05  142 148
 7 47:57 6:50  142 151
 8 54:30 6:33  151 158
 9 1:01:02 6:32  157 163
 10 1:07:34 6:32  163 164
 11 1:14:08 6:34  162 163
 12 1:20:45 6:37  161 165
 Total 1:20:45 6:43  152 165

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From steve ash on Mon, Mar 21, 2011 at 10:31:12 from 67.166.103.179

Hi Rob,

I like how consistent your running has been in spite of the nasty cold. But just my two cents; Looking at your heart rates and your comments about how you feel before and during your runs, is it possible that maybe some more rest or some modification of the training plan is needed? I hesitate to give my opinion when it's not solicited but I'm seeing some signs of early over training perhaps.

From Rob on Mon, Mar 21, 2011 at 10:49:33 from 72.254.57.40

Feel free to give me advice, I'll be the first to admit I have no idea what I'm doing. I just run till it hurts and then I go a little further, so any input from people smarter than me is much appreciated. I think my HR was about 10 bpm higher than normal due to still being a bit sick, I ran the last 1/2 faster than I probably should have cause I looked at my watch and realized I was going to be late for work :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Woke up totally planning on doing the St. Charles 12 mile run again but as I was limping down the hall I was prompted to go to the gym and take it easy.   I used to feel pretty down on myself when I missed a day of running, but thanks to advice from people like Steve yesterday, and reading Ryan Hall's book I'm slowly realizing that no one is super human, but the way to appear super human is to stay injury free.  One of my New Year Resolutions this year was to stay injury free, which I think even if over all fitness falls a bit is a much better strategy than trying to run a fast marathon with an injury.  So there it is, I'm not going to feel bad about not getting miles on the board just to do it, that's not my primary goal.

Oh, forgot to put my workout in..  1 hour elliptical, 20 minutes of stretching and weights.

 

I don't have this problem anymore, but thought it was funny since I was there about 2 years ago and I know a lot of you are probably dealing with it now.


Comments
From steve ash on Tue, Mar 22, 2011 at 16:01:48 from 67.166.103.179

Good move Rob. Was Ryan Hall's book worth buying do you think?

From Rob on Tue, Mar 22, 2011 at 16:23:08 from 72.254.134.157

Steve- I just bought the $10 e-book version cause I always like have reading material on my long flights. I think the book is 'OK' it's basically just his running log building up to Boston last year, with some various hints and tips thrown in here and there. It's not at all like a normal running book with training schedules and the like, which is a nice change.

From RivertonPaul on Tue, Mar 22, 2011 at 16:28:15 from 67.42.27.114

Stay healthy.

From Rob on Tue, Mar 22, 2011 at 16:36:58 from 72.254.134.157

I'm trying Paul. It's hard to keep balance lately, I worked over 100 hours last week, plus got really sick all while trying to train. It may be a blessing in disguise that I can't do Ogden this year, it gave me an extra 3 weeks and some wiggle room in my training.

It sure is hard to stay motivated in down time, I'm sure for you it's 1000 times worse since you've been out for... 3 months now?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
11.000.000.000.0011.00

Last day of running in the Big Easy (haven't figured out why it's called that)  I wanted to do my Zoo loop one more time,  I have a 7:00am flight tomorrow and wont be able to run. Didn't feel great at all, and my hip and knee are still bothering me, I really hope it's just from being sick, I can't remember doing anything to make them hurt.  Ran the short loop around autobahn park and back,  lots of people run down the trolly tracks on St. Charles, My momma told me "don't run on railroad tracks" but today I decided to try it,  ended up not liking it very much cause it was really un-even so I went back to the road.

Today is the last day of the conference, which means another really long work day, but at least we are finally done.  So.. ready to go home.  To bad it's only for 1 week.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:34 6:34  148 167
 2 13:29 6:55  147 149
 3 20:28 6:59  150 154
 4 27:24 6:56  154 157
 5 34:32 7:08  152 157
 6 42:28 6:56  154 156
 7 49:34 7:06  153 156
 8 56:45 7:11  153 156
 9 1:03:51 7:06
  153 155
 10 1:10:56 7:05  153 158
 11 1:17:56 7:00  153 159
 Total1:17:56
 7:00  152 159

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 11.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.003.000.000.0012.00

Wow, this is the worst cold I've had in a long time, I don't feel terrible but it has been lingering for over 1 week now.  Took advantage of my travel day home yesterday and didn't run, just flew home early and then chilled all day, took a 2 hour nap, watched Cloudy with a chance of meatballs with the kids and went to bed early.  I woke up early this morning feeling bad for myself thinking I was just falling apart and all of my training had been wasted, my groin was still bothering me and I felt pretty tired.

Went to the gym so I could feel like I was back on a normal schedule and take advantage of the amenities, IE foam rollers, hot tub, steam room.  Got on my old familiar treadmill and started out slow, after 2 miles things started to work themselves out, I found a rhythm and started feeling really good, my legs actually felt really fresh from the easy week or so I've had since getting sick and I started feeling really good.  The faster I went the better I felt and I found a fluidity I haven't felt in a while.  I don't think I'm ready to try anything crazy like say , the Riverton 1/2 tomorrow, but I am happy to feel normalish again. Did my last 3 miles after the treadmill reset in a progressive 17:58.  It seems like every time I do a race when I have 5K to go I think if I could only do it in 18:00...

Forgot my watch, which I am mad about cause I would have liked to get HR info.

 Distance Time
 Avg Pace
   
 9 58:55 6:32   
 10 1:05:02 6:07   
 11 1:11:02
 6:00   
 12 1:16:53 5:51   
 Total 1:16:53 6:24   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

So, I have a major issue, the same drive that has got me where I am today is the same thing that's going to kill me in the end, I had no business running 18 miles today, felt like crap my first step to my last, I've felt better at the end of full marathons than I felt today but for some reason I just keep going even when I know I should stop.

Just found out Ryan (my running partner) took second place behind Walter today in the Riverton 1/2, I'm glad I didn't try to run it, cause I couldn't have stayed with him.  I'd have been lucky to finish. 

Congrats to him though, someday I'll be able to keep up with him in a race.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:37 7:37  134 166
 2 14:30 6:53  145 148
 3 21:14 6:44  148 150
 4 27:48 6:34  152 154
 5 34:16 6:28  155 157
 6 40:42 6:26  156 157
 7 47:04 6:22  157 160
 8 53:24 6:20  159 162
 9 59:39 6:15  160 162
 10 1:06:08 6:29  149 159
 11 1:12:36
 6:28  157 159
 12 1:19:04 6:28  156 158
 13 1:25:36 6:32  156 159
 14 1:32:03 6:27  157 159
 15 1:38:25 6:22  158 162
 16 1:45:04 6:39  155 162
 17 1:51:30 6:26  160 163
 18 1:57:52 6:22  161 167
 Total1:58:02
 6:32  154 167

 I finished Ryan Hall's book yesterday, I actually ended up really liking it, I think anyone who is running the Boston marathon would really enjoy reading it during their taper period to stay motivated,  it makes you realize that even though these guys run insanely faster than the rest of us they still have the same drawbacks in training and the same fears.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 18.00
Comments
From allie on Sun, Mar 27, 2011 at 14:38:28 from 174.23.241.50

nice job -- despite the fact that you weren't feeling it, you made it through and that is what counts. file this run away in your 'secret weapon' account for your next marathon.

i have yet to read ryan hall's book, but it's on my list. it sounds like i need to get on that sooner rather than later.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I'm going to give my body 1 week off, that's it.  If it can't get better in 1 week I quit.

48 laps in the pool in 60 minutes, then hottub and steam room.


Swim Miles: 1.50
Comments
From allie on Tue, Mar 29, 2011 at 12:03:45 from 161.38.218.168

good plan. sometimes hitting the reset button is the best thing you can do.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

45 minutes on the elliptical trainer, tried to keep my HR at 140, 30 minutes of weights.

Starting to feel a little better, maybe 1 more day off and then an easy run on Thursday to see how things are.

Comments
From steve ash on Tue, Mar 29, 2011 at 12:08:34 from 76.23.2.151

Rob, Sorry that you are feeling so rotten lately. From experience you may feel ok but I think if you kept things just really easy like 8 min pace or so for the next week or two you may be surprised. I just think it was a combo of too many miles too fast too soon without enough recovery man. Your still a young one in terms of your running age which is good though. I myself am in a transition phase along with also pushing things a bit much:) Just a thought or two.. Does it help?

From steve ash on Tue, Mar 29, 2011 at 12:09:11 from 76.23.2.151

I'm a better coach than athlete! LOL!

From Rob on Tue, Mar 29, 2011 at 12:52:48 from 206.71.84.68

Well that's good news cause you're a pretty awesome athlete.

I'm really not feeling terrible, I just have a slightly pulled groin muscle, I could run on it but last year I pulled a muscle in my shin, kept running through it and really paid the price at TOU. I told myself this year that I wanted to run injury free, I'm really annoyed cause things were going so well, my body was responding well, I was noticably getting faster then 'BAM" this happened. Maybe next time I'll learn not to try speed work on a 90+ hour work week, with a cold.

Thanks for the input, I really appreciate it.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

I was planning on taking today off from running as well, but I decided to try coach Steve's advice and just try a nice easy run.  Stretched out for about 10 minutes before, and then hit it pretty slow, couldn't hold myself at the suggested 8:00 pace the whole time but still a very easy run and felt pretty good.  I actually think my legs feel much better now than they would have without a run.  

Did some crazy drills just to keep myself entertained while running, high knees, butt kicks, toe strikes, fast strides, long strides.  Just kind of messed around trying to find a smooth stride that didn't affect the hip and groin area as much.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 8:05 8:05   
 2 15:51 7:46   
 3 23:44 7:53   
 4 31:43 7:59   
 5 39:27 7:44   
 6 46:56 7:29   
 7 54:42 7:46   
 8 1:02:13 7:31   
 Total 1:02:18 7:46   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Feeling 100% better today which oddly is exactly why I didn't run,  I could tell that 1 mile into my run I would have started feeling good, pushed myself and ended up getting hurt again.  Yeah, I have a self restraint problem.  So I did something that I can't hurt myself doing, swimming.    I did 4 x 500 meter intervals (10 laps) no stopping, flip turns at every turn. and then 30 second rests in between. and then the last 400 meters easy.  48 laps in ~55 minutes.

I have a hard time deciding if swimming is a good cross training for running at all, I don't wear a HR monitor so I have no idea how hard of a cardio workout it is, it seems much easier than running and I've never felt completely worn out after a swim like after a good run.  I do like the rhythmic breathing aspect of it, so I guess if anything it a good breathing workout.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Comments
From allie on Thu, Mar 31, 2011 at 21:54:08 from 174.23.241.50

i have never actually tried swimming as cross training, but there are a handful of bloggers on here who have kept up their fitness and even improved their fitness through swimming.

i think you made a good decision -- and i am glad you are feeling better!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

There are pluses and minuses to being married to a massage therapist.  Plus- your spouse can massage places (that really need it) that a normal massage therapist would probably get arrested for massaging, (at least in Utah).  Or you'd get arrested for asking :).  Minus- it's like pulling teeth to get a massage, sometimes it would be easier to just fork out the $65 at a spa than dealing with all the fighting and anguish of asking your wife for a favor.  Anyway I convinced Britt to work on my "problem areas" last night which seemed to help quite a bit.

Tried to keep a slow pace but just wanted to get through my run, so I kept a pace that seemed like it wasn't pulling anything, legs were pretty sore and I can tell I've lost some fitness over the last 2 weeks, my lungs were burning, which my lungs never burn, but I made it through.

Forgot my watch today.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 5 35:00 7:00   
 10 1:09:30 6:54   
 Total 1:09:30 6:56   

I just signed up for St. George Marathon,  basically been training for it now for 2 1/2 years but I'm a sure in this year, 3rd times a charm.  I'm going to put it all out on the line for St. George,  everything else is just build up.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.200.000.000.0015.20

I was hurting pretty bad yesterday and wasn't really sure I should run today, but I told Ryan I would run with him and I hate no-showing.  I told him I needed to run slow, which also meant short since I needed to get done for 8:00am soccer games.  800mg of ibuprophen seemed to do the trick, felt OK but could definately feel it the entire run.  Kept it pretty slow, I could tell Ryan wanted to go faster but I kept holding him back.  Hey, he told me slow was probably a good thing for him too.

Glad I got a longish run in, I feel bad that I still haven't run over 20 miles this year and really think this is going to be bad come marathon day.

Here is my crazy work schedule for the next 2 months.

Monday, Bejing China for 2 weeks, come home for 1 night, fly to San Francisco for 4 days, home for 5 days then off to Rio Brazil for 1 week, come home for 1 week then Istanbul Turkey for 2 weeks, then 3 at home until UVM.  Schedule subject to change but that's what it's looking like now.  Pretty hard to train like that, but pretty neat to run in 4 different continents over the next 2 months.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:47 7:47   
 2 15:26 7:39   
 3 23:16 7:40   
 4 30:38 7:22   
 5 37:54 7:16   
 6 44:56 7:02   
 7 52:17 7:21   
 8 59:49 7:32   
 9 1:07:12 7:23   
 10 1:14:53 7:41   
 11 1:22:14 7:21   
 12 1:29:26 7:12   
 13 1:37:18 7:42   
 14 1:44:44 7:26   
 15 1:52:10 7:26   
 15.2 1:53:06 7:13   
 Total 1:53:27 7:27   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.20
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Sat, Apr 02, 2011 at 17:18:24 from 174.253.180.166

Travel safely.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

I'm not sure how my running is going to be for the next 2 weeks so I wanted to make sure I got a decent run in this morning.  Pushed pretty hard and Riverton Paul said I was limping. Felt OK, but my HR is still about 8 - 10 bpm over what it was 3 weeks ago at the same pace.

Sitting at the Airport now waiting to sit on an airplane for 22 hours, in couch.  Fun Fun.  

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:32 7:32  160 
 2 14:25 6:53  149 
 3 21:05 6:40  153 
 4 27:40 6:35  156 
 5 34:11 6:31  157 
 6 40:37 6:26  158 
 7 47:17 6:40  156 
 8 53:44 6:27  159 
 9 59:47 6:03
  164 
 10 1:07:46 6:59  148 
 11 1:14:49 6:53  153 
 12 1:21:24 6:35  155 
 Total 1:21:24 6:47  155 
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Mon, Apr 04, 2011 at 11:48:30 from 67.42.27.114

Maybe your 20+ hour flight will let your body heal. Have a good trip.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Somehow missed a whole day, woke up this morning in Bejing China and completely missed Tuesday all together.  Today (the 6th) is my 38th Birthday, I have been in China for my last 3 birthdays working, kind of lame.

My leg was hurting pretty bad from sitting on the plane for 22 hours and only got about 5 hours of poor sleep last night so I just did the elliptical trainer in the hotel gym this morning for 45 minutes.  I wanted to try and run outside this trip but the air quality is really terrible, my eyes and lungs are burning just walking outside from the car to the hotel so I'm not sure if it's even a good idea to try and run outside.  I really don't like this place, wish they could pick a different city other than Bejing.


Comments
From jtshad on Mon, Apr 11, 2011 at 11:31:30 from 204.134.132.225

Happy belated birthday!!! Hope China is treating you well and you are having a safe trip.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.600.000.000.008.60

Getting runs in is going to be difficult, the hotel Gym doesn't open until 6:00am and we have to meet for work at 7:30.  I'm going to need to get brave and run outside I suppose.

13.8 KM in 1 hour = 8.6 = 6:58/mil avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.60
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

Yesterday it rained here in Bejing and for the first time in probably years you could see the sun.  People were out in the streets just staring at the sun wondering what this big ball of light in the sky was.  Turns out when there isn't a blanket of smog covering the entire city it gets light at 5:00am.  Interesting trivia, all of China is on 1 time zone and they don't have daylight savings, so after sporatic jetlaged sleep all night at 5:00am when I noticed light coming through my window I couldn't pass up the chance to go run outside.  My leg is hurting really bad still, and walking around an enormous convention center all day just isn't giving it time to get better.  So I ran out to the Olympic Park and around and back to the hotel, I was really slow 4 miles in 32 minutes 8:00/mil pace and then I went to the hotel gym and did 30 minutes on the stationary bike.

 I am trying to relax a bit more today so I can get some better outside mileage in tomorrow morning,  I guess we'll see.

I am trying to take advantage of being injured and out of training mode, and being in China with horrible food to try and loose some weight.  I would love to drop 10 - 15 lbs for when I am able to pick up my training again.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.000.000.006.50

Well, the sun has once again been engulfed by smog, crazy how polluted the air can get here in one day.  I woke up at 4:30 for a 5:00 run and it was pitch black where yesterday it was completely light.  My eyes and throat were burning and my leg was still hurting,  I ran 3.2 miles alone circled back to the hotel and met one of my co-workers and ran another 3.3 with him.  He has really improved since he started running last summer,  I remember in San Jose last year he couldn't run 1/4 mile non-stop, now he is up to 3-5 per day.  Good job Danny.  We circled the Birds Nest and Olympic Village and back to the hotel.  I decided I was done running and went to the hotel gym for 45 minutes on the Elliptical.

6.5 in 50:00, 7:43 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

20 minutes on the stationary bike, and some weights with stretching.  Feeling pretty good today.  Finally got 8 hours of sleep last night for the first time since I got to China,  I should be all caught up just in time to come back home :)

Comments
From allie on Sun, Apr 10, 2011 at 02:58:42 from 174.23.241.50

i imagine that takes quite a toll on the body. good luck.

From Rob on Sun, Apr 10, 2011 at 03:32:04 from 72.254.90.15

Allie, go to bed. It's like 1:00am.

From Rob Murphy on Sun, Apr 10, 2011 at 09:32:46 from 24.10.248.6

Hey Rob, when are you getting back?

From Rob on Sun, Apr 10, 2011 at 21:42:33 from 72.254.58.246

I come home Friday and then hop on a plane back to San Francisco on Saturday :(

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

I woke up at 2:00am, like normal and had a weird sensation in my leg, it didn't hurt for the first time in 3 weeks when I moved, I then dozed in and out of sleep and kept having dreams that I didn't hurt anymore and I could run effortlessly for ever.  I was so excited I could hardly wait to go running this morning.  Finally got up at 4:30, did some stretches and realized it was all just a dream, I still hurt.  But that wasn't going to get me down.

Headed outside, to actually a beautiful morning ran out around the Olympic Park and then back and out around the Birdsnest and Olympic Village.  7 slow miles was about all I had in me but it felt good despite the pain.

Went back to the hotel gym and got on the eliptical trainer and watched the last 3 holes of the Masters.

 Distance Time
 Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:14 7:14  168 176
 2 14:43 7:29  146 158
 3 21:54 7:11  151 159
 4 29:05 7:11  152 156
 5 36:28 7:23  152 160
 6 43:49 7:21  152 155
 7 51:13 7:24  154 161
 Total 51:17 7:19  154 161

 http://connect.garmin.com/player/78487201


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Lily on Mon, Apr 11, 2011 at 11:11:04 from 67.199.178.210

Great you go in 7 while a little hurt still. I hope whatever it is that is wrong will shape up soon.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I have a love hate relationship with the eliptical trainer.  I hate it, yet at this point I am really glad there is something I can do that actually makes my leg feel better when I'm done.  I seem to be in a pattern where I don't run one day feel better the next so I try and run and end up hurting again.  I better do what people have been telling me for 3 weeks now and just stop running until I am completely better.

It's really annoying that I can't take advantage of the sun coming up at 5:00am but even walking is a troublesome task.  So ready to come home.

45 minutes on the elliptical, followed by weights and stretching.

Comments
From Lily on Tue, Apr 12, 2011 at 17:26:25 from 67.199.178.210

And that's why I coined the phrase 'elliptical hell'. Love it/hate it. :)

You're smart. Just don't run for awhile. Let the body do it's thing and you'll heal.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

45 minutes hard on the elliptical.  I set the resistance to 15 and tried to keep my cadence above 100, I dropped down to around 90 towards the end but my HR sustained around 160 for the last 20 minutes.  About as good of a tempo simulation as I could do, actually felt like I had done a hard run when I got done.  Did a full leg workout after, lunges, extensions, and real full out muscle man squats.  I haven't done real squats in probably 2 years.  After doing them I realized I should have been do them all throughout my injury period.  I probably would have been better by now, it totally stretched out the infected area and strengthens the supporting muscles.

Pretty happy with my workout today.  The conference is done today, we are taking a tour to the Great Wall tomorrow and then come home.  I'll post a nice photo of the wall tomorrow.

I want.   http://sites.garmin.com/forerunner610/?lang=en


Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Really great day today, we planned an extra day in China to go sightseeing, so myself and the 3 guys I came here with booked car with guide to the GreatWall.  I had been there 2 years ago and wanted to go further in both directions this time.  Convinced 2 of my Co-Workers to go with me, I would love to go with a group of runners and do a long 20 - 30 miler along it but we had fun none the less.  It really wasn't much of a run but was the best workout I've had in 2 weeks so I thought I'd count some miles.  I did get a few miles in.

I don't care for China so much, but going to the Great Wall is actually one of my greatest adventures in life, it's really beautiful and a ton of fun to just walk for miles with such awesome views.

Oh! I did 45 minutes on the Hotel Elliptical this morning too :)  No real comparison but hey what ever.

 


 I didn't realize I had a cheer leader until after I watched the video here.  Funny!!

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 6.00
Comments
From allie on Thu, Apr 14, 2011 at 22:23:50 from 174.23.241.50

cool stuff. that's definitely on my bucket list. safe travels.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Got home from China yesterday morning, so I'm a bit jetlaged but not as bad as I would have thought.  Slept pretty good last night and went to the gym this morning, I got on the treadmill thinking I was going to be able to get an easy 10 in.  Immediately I realized it was a bad idea, leg started acting up so I got frustrated and was sick of the Eliptical so I went and swam 32 laps instead.

Now I'm sitting at the airport waiting for my delayed flight to San Francisco.  Nice to see my family for 12 hours.  Starting next week my work schedule becomes more "accomodating" so starting Monday I think I'm just going to start running through the pain, I feel at this point that my fitness is in a downward spiral.

I ran into Paul Petersen this morning on his way to Boston, that was pretty exciting.  I talked with him for a good 30 minutes about running, work, family balance and training.  He really is a great guy and I was honored to meet him.  Wished him well, I'm really excited for Boston this year, I really wish I could be there.  I also want to wish everyone running the Salt Lake Marathon today good luck looks like a perfect day for a marathon.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

I'm in San Mateo for a few days,  Last October when I was here I found a great trail up by Crystal Springs Resevoir, called Sawyer Camp trail, it runs through a game preserve so there is wild life everywhere and a beautiful lake, one of the neatest trails I have ever run on.  While reading Ryan Halls book Running with Joy he actually talked about running on that trail, and I noticed that he ran a tempo run on it just last week getting ready for Boston.  So this morning I took 3 of my Co-Workers with me and we all ran the trail, I ran 7 my Co-worker "Danny" who I ran with in Beijing last week ran 6 and the other 2 ran 4.  Great morning, perfect temperature, a bit humid but very nice.  My leg was killing me the whole time but just running on that trail made it enjoyable.

I've decided I must have tendonitis in my groin area, contemplating getting a cortisone shot.  I've never had one before, I've heard they are painful but I kind of think nothing could be more painful than just they everyday pain I have been going through.

7 miles in 48:25  6:55/mile avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

For the first time in 2 years, I was absolutely and completely just lazy this morning and didn't do anything, just laid in bed until it was time to work, so I posted the funniest video I've seen in a while instead.  Oh, I watched the Boston Marathon which was kind of like working out.  Ryan Jonson ran it in 2:37, man I need to get healed, I'm a sludge.


Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 very painful miles on an absolutely gorgeous morning along the Sawyer Camp Trail in San Mateo.  Perfect temperature with an early morning sea mist in the air.  I wish I could run normal.

Sitting at the Airport waiting for my delayed flight home, what do I expect it is SFO.  I'm finally going home after pretty much 5 straight weeks of being a road warrior.  3 weeks at home and then off to Istanbul.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Comments
From steve ash on Tue, Apr 19, 2011 at 22:44:17 from 76.23.2.151

I'm guessing this is more than just a strain? That really sucks Rob:( Does it get better at all after a few miles?

From Rob on Tue, Apr 19, 2011 at 23:13:07 from 204.15.86.95

It doesn't. I was just telling my wife that today. Last year when I had planter and my shin injury it would get better when I ran. But this time stretching doesn't help, and it hurts the whole run. The only thing that helps is mass amounts of ibuprofen.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Ah, back in Utah for a few weeks.  Tried to get back on the old schedule, so I woke up at 4:30 and went to the gym.  Lap swim today, I did 4X500's (10 Laps each set) and 1x400 to finish off the 48 laps or 2400 meters.  Did it in a little under 1 hour, I didn't really keep good track.  

I noticed that when I swim all I think about is running, weird huh?  At least I know I haven't completely lost my drive.   Fitness yes, but the drive is there.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Ahh!  Progress.  Spent yesterday resting a lot and stretching, felt pretty good this morning when I got to the gym so I stretched out really good and did some leg press and extensions before my run.  Started out slow and worked up to a 7:00 pace kept it there for most of the run and then bumped it up to around 6:45 for the last 2 miles.  I also shelved my Nike Free's and pulled out the big clunky cushy Saucony's to see if the cushion would help.  The pain was still there but manageable, and I can still walk after my run.  Probably has something to do with sleeping in my own bed finally.

If I play this right I feel I may be able to get back to pre-injury fitness within 5-6 weeks of smart training.   It was really discouraging how hard a 7:00 pace was, I was sweatin and breathing up a storm just trying to hold it, not sure if it's all lost fitness or the fact I've been at sea level the last 6 weeks.

On a different note, I'm not sure of the exact date I signed up but this is my 1 year anniversary week from signing up on FRB.  It's been really great, I've got a lot of really great advice and even made some new friends.  So thanks everyone for letting me into your little club.

Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Lily on Thu, Apr 21, 2011 at 10:11:42 from 67.199.178.210

Your running fitness will come back fast. Mine came back quicker than I realized.

My 2 year FRB anniversary is coming up here too. Love this blog.

From RivertonPaul on Thu, Apr 21, 2011 at 11:37:34 from 67.42.27.114

Good to see you, amigo.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.000.000.000.002.00

I really wanted to run this morning but my leg was feeling a bit tweaked again and I want to try and get a longish run in tomorrow so I decided to take yet another day off from running.  45 minutes on the elliptical and then some weights.  If I can find some free time today I may dust off the old bike and try going for a bike ride.  I haven't been on my bike in years.

 2 miles as a pacer/motivational runner at the kids school Try-athalon

Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 2.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Fri, Apr 22, 2011 at 11:49:56 from 67.42.27.114

I do hope you get better soon. I so enjoy vicariously living through you.

From Rob on Fri, Apr 22, 2011 at 14:40:52 from 204.15.86.95

Wow Paul! You're setting the bar way to low for yourself. If an aging washed up middle age man is the life you aspire too I guess that's fine. I'm just saying, I think you could do better :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.0010.000.000.0014.00

Well to sum up todays run, I had leg cramps, side cramps, blisters on my feet, sky rocketing heart rate and I was sweatin' like a pig.  And it was awesome, I finally felt like a runner again after over a month.  Groin hurt for the first 7 miles then miraculously it seemed to disapear, by that point I had all sorts of other issues but the faster I went the better my leg felt so even though my HR was through the roof it felt great to be running with a normal stride at a respectable pace again.

I wont call it a come back yet,  we'll wait to see how my Monday run goes before I make any bold statements like that but it was great to run once again.

I met Rachel (RAD) today and talked to her for a few minutes.  It's fun to meet other bloggers.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:13 7:13  135 154
 2 14:06 6:53  150 153
 3 20:45 6:39  155 157
 4 27:20 6:35  157 159
 5 33:50 6:30  161 163
 6 40:16 6:26  163 165
 7 46:43 6:27  163 164
 8 53:08 6:25  166 167
 9 59:21 6:13  167 169
 10 1:06:01 6:40  157 163
 11 1:12:35 6:34  163 164
 12 1:19:07 6:32  164 166
 13 1:25:39 6:32  164 166
 14 1:31:59 6:20  167 169
 Total 1:32:17 6:34 159
169

Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 14.00
Comments
From RAD on Sat, Apr 23, 2011 at 17:19:33 from 98.202.17.113

It was great to have some company in the early hours of dark-morning! You looked good and strong through the run and I hope you can make things official come Monday.

From Rob on Sat, Apr 23, 2011 at 18:54:30 from 204.15.86.95

I wouldn't really say I was great company but it was nice meeting you. I kind of zone out when I run.

From Lily on Sat, Apr 23, 2011 at 19:26:41 from 67.199.178.210

Welcome back (unofficially) to running Rob. I hope it is here to stay for you. Nothing is worse than being on the outs when you like to run.

Sweating and high heart rate are bliss when you haven't done it in awhile. Enjoy it. :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.004.000.000.009.00

Run went well today but I'm definitely riding a fine line between recovery and training.  Started out rough but about 2 miles in I started feeling pretty good.  I realized something, the faster I went the better my leg felt and the better my leg felt the faster I went.  There was a point at around 6:15 pace where I started having a cardio breakdown so my comfort pace seemed to be in the 6:40 - 6:20 range.  I attribute this to being forced to run at a more natural stride the faster you run.  When I run slower I tend to try and compensate for my achy leg but when I start running faster I have no choice but to run more natural.  HR is still pretty high compared to pre-injury for the same pace but the weird thing is the effort doesn't seem as hard as when I was in good shape and my HR was at 170.  170 is where I was at like 5:30 pace 6 weeks ago, now it's at 170 at 6:15 but 6:15 doesn't seem as hard as 5:30 did back then so I'm not sure what to make of that.  There are definitely other factors in play than just HR when trying to run at a fast pace.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:22 7:22  138 146
 2 14:21 6:59  151 155
 3 21:05 6:44  156 159
 4 27:44 6:39  160 162
 5 34:14 6:30  164 167
 6 40:40 6:26  166 168
 7 47:02 6:22  167 169
 8 53:20 6:18  168 170
 9 59:28 6:08  170 173
 Total
 59:33 6:36 159
173
 

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 9.00
Comments
From RAD on Mon, Apr 25, 2011 at 16:43:17 from 98.202.17.113

agreed on the HR factor! Drives me nuts sometimes when in classes all they talk about is HR, HR, HR and what 'zone' you're in. blah... for me I go by perceived exertion. THAT carries a bigger pull for me than just HR.

Glad the running is coming back and easier as well.

From RivertonPaul on Mon, Apr 25, 2011 at 21:19:09 from 174.255.145.223

Interesting observations.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I'm really struggling to find the right balance, I'm sure I could have forced my way through a run again today and I'm sure 2 miles into it I would have felt fine but I really want to be totally pain free again someday, but at the same time I don't think I can afford to loose any more fitness.  The rest of my body says go but my leg still says stop, it would almost be easier if I was sick with the flu or something so I didn't have the desire to workout but other than my leg pain I feel great all over.

I've already told myself my sub-2:40 probably ain't going to happen at UVM, right now I'll be lucky to even match my best time and at that point you start to wonder if it's even worth doing at all.  I guess we'll see how the next couple of weeks go, I know I was in at least 2:40 shape right before I did this to myself, everyone tells me you bounce back quick after a relatively short time off but I'm not so sure.

1600 meter swim in 35 minutes then I got bored, changed clothes and finished with 30 minutes on the elliptical.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From Rob Murphy on Tue, Apr 26, 2011 at 12:23:11 from 205.127.70.66

Did the same type of thing myself yesterday. Just didn't feel like running. Burned some calories though.

Don't sweat it too much.

From RAD on Tue, Apr 26, 2011 at 15:01:59 from 98.202.17.113

Come try spin out! Sometimes they even play fun movies of bike races or mtn biking that are fun to watch while you drip sweat all over yourself :) Helps the 'need a good burn, but can't run' feeling. Not saying it will totally take it away, but it does help - more than swimming anyway.

From Carina on Tue, Apr 26, 2011 at 15:40:13 from 204.15.86.83

I hope you can figure this thing out. I know if you can heal you will rock whatever race you do!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

Not a particularly pleasant run this morning, kind of achy all over. I do see a light at the end of the tunnel,  another week and I may be back to normal,  HR was a little more manageable today I had a weird blip in the 2nd mile but then it settled down.

I tried switching up my shoes the last couple runs, but I'm back to my Free's they are definately the most comfortable.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:04 7:04  142 174
 2 13:52 6:48  159 186
 3 20:32 6:40  153 158
 4 27:02 6:30  157 159
 5 33:28 6:26  160 162
 6 39:50 6:22  162 164
 7 46:20 6:30  161 163
 8 52:43 6:23  162 164
 9 58:56 6:13  164 166
 Total 59:01 6:32  158186?

My work buddy Danny has joined the blog.  I have mentioned him a few times in my posts and dragged him along with me on my crazy world travel runs.  Everyone Welcome Danny to the blog.  dkrieger.fastrunningblog.com


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From allie on Wed, Apr 27, 2011 at 16:15:11 from 161.38.218.168

nice running. i agree, the frees are the most comfortable shoe out there. i just bought pair #6 last week.

From Rob on Wed, Apr 27, 2011 at 16:21:12 from 206.71.84.68

Allie, did you get the new +2's. I really like the look of them but haven't been able to find any men ones anywhere.

I haven't looked especially hard.

From allie on Wed, Apr 27, 2011 at 16:25:02 from 161.38.218.168

yes. apparently the 5.0's are extinct? that was my favorite version, but i am liking the +2's quite a bit. super comfortable. they just seem to have a bit more room in the toe box than i am used to -- but i guess that's not a bad thing.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

A couple of days ago I said I wish I had the flu so I didn't have the desire to run.  Well, I take it back, last night I started feeling like I had some stomach virus was up all night with an icky belly.  Went to the gym as much as my body just wanted to stay in bed, tried running and quit after 1/4 mile.  Went and swam 1600 meters instead and then sat in the hot tub and steam room for the next 45 minutes.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From DannyK on Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 13:52:10 from 71.195.204.34

Sorry to hear that your sick now also.

I'm really hoping mine will go away soon!

At least you still have the motivation to get out of bed and push yourself. :)

From RAD on Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 20:30:57 from 98.202.17.113

aww...shoot! I took your TM for a spin today - it was looking lonely as I was ARC-ing along today. Hope the flu moves on soon!

From Rob on Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 20:42:36 from 166.205.10.203

That was nice of you to keep it warmed up for me. That's the fast treadmill ;)

From RAD on Thu, Apr 28, 2011 at 20:52:59 from 98.202.17.113

It made an 8:20 mile fly by for me, so maybe I will have to start fighting you for it. Well, when we're both back to running that is.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Due to early morning soccer games tomorrow I decided to try and do a long run today instead, plan was 16 so I asked Ryan if he wanted to run today instead.  He agreed and since he is recovering from Boston and I'm recovering from Stupidity we also agreed to run slow.  4 miles in I realized I wasn't going to make it the full 16 so at Legacy Center instead of continuing on to Utah lake we headed West to Willow Park making it 12 instead of 16.  After Legacy I slowed down a lot and then at mile 8 the pain finally went away, I tried to pick up the pace but my legs felt like I was 18 miles in to a 22 mile run, due to the low miles lately so my speed up was less than impressive.

Disapointing run,  I really wanted to get in a longer run, but my body was telling me I wasn't ready yet.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1  7:15  145 
 2  7:24  155 
 3  7:18  159 
 4  7:07  158 
 5  7:56  150 
 6  7:56  151 
 7  8:07  148 
 8  7:59  151 
 9  8:07  150 
 10  7:58  153 
 11  7:23  161 
 12  7:15  165 
 Total 1:31:39 7:39  153 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Apr 29, 2011 at 14:15:42 from 204.15.86.83

I really think some time off would do you a lot of good!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

I have received an answer to my running dilemma,  I'm not going to disclose my premonition, all I'll say is that I wont be complaining about it any more.  Just posting my daily results.

8 Mile run, followed by 15 minutes on the elliptical as a cool down. 

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:54 6:54  145 174
 2 13:36 6:40  155 158
 3 20:11 6:35  159 161
 4 26:41 6:30  161 163
 5 33:20 6:39  161 162
 6 40:16 6:56  155 161
 7 46:51 6:35  162 163
 8 53:04 6:15  165 168
 Total 53:08 6:37  158 168


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I'm not going to be able to do justice for this post, but I realized that today is a very special day for me as far as running goes.  Exactly 2 years ago this day May 1st 2009 I remember jogging on a hotel treadmill in Cancun Mexico, I had just signed up for the St. George marathon (didn't know if I was in or not yet) and then and there it hit me, I weighed close to 250 lbs, could hardly run 2 -3 miles without stopping and I realized that wasn't how I wanted to spend the rest of my life and that the St. George marathon was going to be my goal to change my life.  I also saw that Ryan Jonson from my work had just ran the Boston Marathon in 3:04 and St. George in like 2:47, I'd never known anyone that could run a marathon in than 3 hours and was totally amazed, at that point, that was my goal, run a marathon in under 3:00, crazy huh, who can do that? Funny how relative everything is...  Nothing else really overly dramatic happend that day, I just remember that being the day I had a complete mindset change.  I went and copied a marathon schedule out of a book onto my calander and started following it every day religiously, I'm positive I didn't miss a single workout to the tee from what the book told me to do for the entire cycle. 

Looking back I'm really amazed I have gotten to the point I'm at now in 2 years, I've learned a lot, suffered through a lot of pain and disapointment but I'm very excited about what running has done for me and how it has changed my life.  When people tell me I should just take time off from running to heal my injuries the concept doesn't even make sense to me, I'm surprised it has only been 2 years, it seems like I have been doing this my whole life.

Well, turns out, I didn't get in to St. George that year, I didn't get into St. George last year now finally I'm garanteed a spot.  I'm at the point now where St. George doesn't seem as mystical to me as it did back then, but the symbolism is very great for me.  I really want to figure everything out and have a great race this year.  Every other race I may do leading up is stirctly a training run, I just want to make sure I do everything just right.  I'm probably setting myself up for another huge upset if something happens but I wanted to set the stage.

Comments
From DannyK on Mon, May 02, 2011 at 01:11:02 from 71.195.204.34

If it makes you feel any better Rob, I'm proud of how far you have come. Not only have you improved your life, you have also help improve other peoples lives. Including myself and I thank you for that!

From Carina on Mon, May 02, 2011 at 10:04:45 from 204.15.86.83

That seriously brought tears to my eyes. I love how running changes people. Running has saved my life too!! Nice work, it's amazing what you've done!!!!

From Burt on Mon, May 02, 2011 at 15:51:47 from 206.19.214.144

I think that post did a lot of justice. That's awesome. I want to be like you.

From allie on Mon, May 02, 2011 at 16:03:39 from 161.38.218.168

cool post. cool rob.

From Rob on Mon, May 02, 2011 at 16:28:49 from 206.71.84.68

Burt, as I told Riverton Paul a few days ago. You can do much better than me!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

15 minute elliptical trainer warm up, 9 mile run, followed by another 15 minute elliptical cool down.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:50 6:50  152 157
 2 13:29 6:39  158 161
 3 20:04 6:35  161 163
 4 26:34 6:30  161 164
 5 33:00 6:26  164 166
 6 39:22 6:22  166 167
 7 45:56 6:34  165 166
 8 52:23 6:27  166 168
 9 58:30 6:16  168 169
 Total58:43
 6:31 162
169
 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Mon, May 02, 2011 at 16:47:41 from 67.42.27.114

I'm so glad you are getting healthy.

From Rob on Mon, May 02, 2011 at 17:08:14 from 206.71.84.68

It still hurts, I've just stopped complaining about it :)

You seem to be doing much better!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.008.50

15 minutes on the ARC trainer, 8.5 mile run starting out slow, 15 minutes on the ARC again and then some leg strengthening exercises.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:50 7:50  140 164
 2 15:19 7:29  147 150
 3 22:38 7:19  151 153
 4 29:40 7:02  155 158
 5 36:33 6:53  159 162
 6 43:12 6:39  162 165
 7 49:43 6:31  164 166
 8 56:27 6:44  163 165
 8.5 59:42 6:30  164 166
 Total 59:47 7:02 155
166
 

 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.50
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Tue, May 03, 2011 at 10:24:09 from 174.253.167.70

I hope you enjoyed the ARC trainer.

From Rob on Wed, May 04, 2011 at 12:30:26 from 206.71.84.68

ARC trainer was OK. Truthfully I couldn't really notice a difference between it and eliptical

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.000.000.000.0013.00

1600 meter swim in 32 minutes and then 8 miles on the treadmill, the swim took a lot more out of me than I thought swimming did, which is good cause that's what I'm trying to do, simulate longer runs without completely pounding my leg to death but I just never really got comfortable running, I was all over the place, couldn't find a pace that felt good so instead of going the intended 9 I quit and 8. :(

 
 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:01 7:01  148 154
 2 13:54 6:53  155 157
 3 20:42 6:48  158 159
 4 27:25 6:43  159 162
 5 34:13 6:48  158 161
 6 41:12 6:59  149 156
 7 47:58 6:46  156 160
 8 54:41 6:43  157 160
 Total 55:01 6:51 155
162

I'm trying to loose about 10 -15 more lbs so I'm on a new diet that I created myself, I used to make peanut butter and honey sandwiches at work but I decided to ditch the bread and just eat  3 - 4 spoon fulls of peanut butter and honey every few hours, I also eat a couple of oranges or apples throughout the day.  Seems to be working,  I've lost 3 lbs so far.  That's just my day time diet, when I get home at night all bets are off and I just eat what ever the wife has prepared for dinner.

5 very slow miles from my office for lunch, about 1 mile up Big Cottonwood Canyon and back.  8:03/mile pace.  Here are some people that are faster than I was.


 

Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 13.00Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From Derunzo on Wed, May 04, 2011 at 15:39:05 from 64.56.60.130

Dude.... what are you talking about? I'm looking at the 8 mile run you did and you are flying! The heart rate is staying low too. Nice work!

From Rob on Wed, May 04, 2011 at 15:43:31 from 206.71.84.68

Oh, sorry! I wasn't specific enough. I was referring to my lunch run.

From allie on Wed, May 04, 2011 at 22:57:37 from 174.23.197.101

ever tried celery with your peanut butter? it's delicious -- better than bread and has a ton of fiber. just a suggestion...

also, who is that guy in gray? he looks familiar. i think he sold me carpet cleaner once.

From Fritz on Wed, May 04, 2011 at 23:24:52 from 67.182.226.25

celery, PB and raisins = ants on a log, and very good.

From RAD on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 00:18:52 from 98.202.17.113

nice! :) Allie, I think he sells magazines not carpet cleaner..

I hope things heal up for you Rob. Nice job staying on top of the training and listening to your body as well.

From Rob on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 09:58:46 from 206.71.84.68

Allie, that's why he was running faster than me. I was chasing him trying to get my money back. Worst carpet cleaner I've ever used.

From Burt on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 12:52:02 from 206.19.214.144

What the...???

If you're dumb enough to buy cod oil and put it on your carpet, you deserve to have your money taken away.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

5:00 am---

Apparently I over did it yesterday,  1 hour on the elliptical, 30 minutes of weights.  I brought my bike to work today, planning on going on a ride for lunch.  I haven't been on a bike in 2 years, should be interesting.

12:00 pm---

That was awesome!  Last time I rode my bike I weighed 70 lbs more and wasn't anywhere close to the fitness (obviously) that I am now.  It was amazingly easy, I felt like I was just flying up every hill.  I rode with my best friend whom I also work with, he used to just kill me going up hills when we used to ride to work together 4 years ago.  Today, he had nuthin on me :)   18 miles along Wasatch Blvd out and back.

That settles it, next year, St. George Iron Man.

Comments
From Rob Murphy on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 10:29:47 from 205.127.70.66

Hey Rob. Where is your office? We need to get together for a post work run someday.

From Rob on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 10:37:37 from 206.71.84.68

My office is in the Cottonwod office complex right below Big Cottonwood canyon. The 4 big buildings right off of 2-15.

From Rob on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 10:45:36 from 206.71.84.68

Rob, I'll be in Turkey (the stuffing :)) for the next 2 weeks. But let's for sure get together when I get back.

From Carina on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 11:12:29 from 204.15.86.83

I don't even remember the last time I rode a bike, but apparently it comes back pretty easy. Ha Ha!

From RAD on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 18:12:00 from 98.202.17.113

I love it! A new Iron Man!

From allie on Thu, May 05, 2011 at 22:21:08 from 174.23.197.101

nice riding. iron man for sure.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Saving myself for a long run tomorrow hopefully, so 1 hour on the elliptical again.  Taking the day off to finish some projects around the house before I leave for Istanbul on Sunday.  Should be interesting running there, on my last day there my plan is to run in 3 different continents in the same day.  Asia, Europe, North America.  To bad I don't have a layover in Africa!!

I may try and go on a bike ride this afternoon if I can get through my hunnydo list.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.500.000.000.0016.50

Well, I guess that answered that question.  Unless I decided to do it just as a slow long training run, UVM is off.  If anyone needs a 3:15 pacer I may be good for that.  Very slow, very miserable run this morning, which is to bad cause it was an absolutely beautiful morning.  Ryan was a great sport and stayed with me the entire way.

16.5 miles in 2:07:00  ~7:40/mile avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 16.50
Comments
From RAD on Sun, May 08, 2011 at 00:41:09 from 98.202.17.113

I'd happily take a 3:35 pacer! :) Talk about slow for you!! 3:15 would probably kill me.

Sorry the leg isn't healing like you want it to. Tonight I'm feeling the ill effects of possibly prematurely over estimating the healing my leg has gone through as well. I think if I play it smart I'll be okay. I just have to play it smart - ha!

Glad you had good company on the run.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I was awakened by the sound of Muslim prayer music coming in my hotel window this morning. A strange way to be reminded I'm not in my own bed. 

I really want to go for a run along the river, but I'm going to try and give myself time to heal while in Istanbul, so I went to the hotel gym and did 1 hour on the elliptical.  Hopefully I will have time to do 2 a days in the gym just to keep cardio up.

Officially in to St. George Marathon, and Ryan finagled his way in as well.  Time to get better so I can tear it up.  5 months to get ready, should be fine.

 

P.M.

45 minutes on the elliptical, 20 minutes of weights.

Comments
From DannyK on Tue, May 10, 2011 at 23:27:30 from 209.148.36.3

Is it even safe to run in Istanbul if you could?

From Rob on Wed, May 11, 2011 at 01:15:05 from 212.154.83.199

Early in the morning before traffic I think it would be totally safe. It feels like any big European city, I read somewhere that ferrel dogs are a problem when you're running but all the dogs I've seen are just laying around minding their own business.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

A.M. 

60 minutes on the elliptical, 30 minutes on the stationary bike.

P.M.

45 Minutes elliptical, 15 minutes weights.

Comments
From RivertonPaul on Wed, May 11, 2011 at 18:56:24 from 67.42.27.114

Keep up the cardio.

From Rob on Thu, May 12, 2011 at 01:30:44 from 212.154.83.199

Thanks Paul. I felt bad for not being able to run here but a local told me he didn't think it was a good idea anyway so I decided to take this time to try and get better and stop running completely. I hope the elliptical is helping and not hindering.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Apparently Muslim prayer time at the Mosque was at 4:43 this morning, so needless to say I had extra time in the gym this morning.

90 minutes on the elliptical, 20 minutes of weights and stretching.

P.M.

30 minutes elliptical, 15 minutes of weights.

I finally caved in and made an appointment with a sports medicine doctor when I get home, I seriously would have done it earlier but I've only been in the United States about 3 weeks out of the last 2 months, and 2 of those I was in New Orleans, so practically out of the country then too.  I sure hope he can do something, cause I'm really sick of this.

Comments
From DannyK on Thu, May 12, 2011 at 21:44:03 from 72.254.60.129

Man I wish I had your job! ;)

New Orlean's was the most foreign place we have been out of the 3. lol

great workout today buddy.

From allie on Thu, May 12, 2011 at 23:28:23 from 174.23.197.101

i know how you feel...

i hope the sports doc can give you some answers and that you can get back into running very soon.

From Rob on Fri, May 13, 2011 at 04:02:10 from 62.50.225.106

Yep Allie, learn from me. I screwed up this time. I assumed I would just get better eventually but it's not happening on it's own.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

A.M.

75 minutes elliptical, 25 minutes weights.  I'm feeling fatigued like I've been running a 70 mile week, so that must mean I'm simulating something with all this cross training.  Hopefully it's something good.

I've been watching the Eastern European MTV while ellipticaling, man those Russians really know how to make running music.  I'm going to have to get myself an Eastern European Techno music CD for my next marathon.  I have no idea what their saying but it sounds like "Run faster, Run faster, Da Da"

This site claims I can run a sub 2:30 marathon if I can somehow loose 30 lbs, and 14 years.  Both seem pretty hard to do, especially the time travel part.

http://academic.udayton.edu/PaulVanderburgh/weight_age_grading_calculator.htm

Comments
From Lily on Fri, May 13, 2011 at 09:55:43 from 67.199.178.210

LOL!

Hey I have some good running music (kind of techno mode) I love it for long runs.

From allie on Fri, May 13, 2011 at 22:50:52 from 174.23.197.101

that's an interesting calculator. it computes a slower time for me than my actual PR. i added 20 pounds, and suddenly i can run a 2:42 marathon. then i added 60 pounds and it gives me a 2:28. i am guessing they assume those 60 extra pounds are pure muscle? even so, that's a lot of weight to carry while running a 2:28 marathon. i think i broke it...

From Rob on Sat, May 14, 2011 at 01:24:27 from 212.154.83.199

Lily, I listened to MTV again this morning and was already bored with it, I had to go back to my iPod :)

Allie, That calculator doesn't work for someone who is already perfect. It assumes a margin of error. (Fat old guys)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

A.M.

90 minutes on the elliptical.

Yesterday afternoon my co-worker and I took a cab to the Grand Bazaar, that place was crazy, (if you look up Bazar on Wikipedia a picture of the Istanbul bazaar that we went to comes up.)  Anyway, it took over 1 hour to drive 5 miles to get there so we walked back to the hotel in about the same time, my leg was killing me after that walk, that's no good.

Wow, I logged a grand total of 0 miles this week, I'm not going to rank very high on the mileage board this year.

P.M.

60 minutes on the elliptical.

Just to make me feel better about myself I went and calculated what I thought would equal ~ comparable running miles for the week.  I figured an average of 8 mph which is what I try to keep it at when I'm at home and it tells me some number, and I figured time wise that is pretty conservative for me since I tend to run my base treadmill miles pretty fast.  Anyway, I came up with 74 miles,  So that makes me feel better, as far as fatigue goes I actually feel like I did a 74 mile running week.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I was going to take the day off but I woke up at 5:00am and since I work so hard to get on local time and on a schedule I didn't want to mess with it so I went to the hotel gym for an easy workout,  30 minutes on the elliptical, 30 minutes of weights.

I asked the local IT guy from the hotel what they said in the Muslim prayer song that plays throughout the city in every Mosque 5 times a day, figuring everyone in Turkey was Muslim.  He said, "how should I know, it's in Arabic, no one here speaks Arabic" Anyway, he was very annoyed that they played it 5 times a day and said only about 5% of the people here actually follow it.  I thought that was really funny and related it to Utah,  I once had a friend from Memphis come visit in Utah and the first thing she asked was "where are all the Mormons"  can you imagine what the out cry in Utah would be if  5 times a day they played church Hymns from every ward house in Utah.  Non-Mormons would riot I'm sure.  Apparently Istanbul is fairly liberal when it comes to religion but most places in this area are not allowed to choose.  All I'm saying here is next time someone complains about Mormons in Utah, tell them to come to the Middle East, they will appreciate what we have a lot more.

Comments
From DannyK on Sun, May 15, 2011 at 02:57:12 from 209.148.36.3

I would Riot for sure! ;)

From Rob on Sun, May 15, 2011 at 03:03:35 from 72.254.92.253

Danny:

You don't even need a reason to riot, it's like a daily activity for you.

Shouldn't you be in bed? Are you still in New York?

From Rob Murphy on Tue, May 17, 2011 at 13:25:41 from 205.127.70.66

I would probably jump off a bridge rather than riot. I've been to LDS churches and heard their congregational hymn singing.

From Rob on Wed, May 18, 2011 at 01:14:46 from 72.254.57.16

:), Funny I didn't see you there. That would have been me singing.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

The group I'm working for made us change hotels last night, so now I'm slummin' it at the Conrad Hilton Hotel.  I was actually pretty excited about it cause it has a much nicer gym and a pool.  My room over looks a Mosque, lucky me.  Muslim prayer time this morning 4:40am.  

90 Minutes on the elliptical. 

P.M.

45 Minutes on the elliptical,  25 minutes of weights

Comments
From Carina on Mon, May 16, 2011 at 15:36:20 from 204.15.86.83

Seriously that would be annoying! At least it helps you get on the local time :) Nice cross training this morning, keep up the good work!!

From Rob on Tue, May 17, 2011 at 01:46:44 from 72.254.120.154

It would be annoying if you lived here, It's kind of cool waking up to it though, makes me remember that I'm a long way from home.

This is seriously one of my favorite places I have been, I was a bit afraid to come here but it is really cool, and the people are very nice. I have not once felt threatened or out of place like I do in China or India.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.500.000.000.002.50

A.M.  

60 Minutes of elliptical and then I decided to try out the leg,  4km in 30 minutes at 7% incline.  That's a whoppin 12min/mile pace.  Sweet huh?

P.M.

45 Minutes of elliptical

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 2.50
Comments
From allie on Wed, May 18, 2011 at 02:20:34 from 174.23.197.101

i do the same thing when i can't run but still want to get a "run" in -- crazy incline at a slow pace. it's a great workout. when do you get back?

From Rob on Wed, May 18, 2011 at 03:23:32 from 72.254.57.16

Allie, I finally get to come home on Saturday. This is a very cool place, I wish I could have run while I was here.

How do you stay up until 1:00am and then wake up to go running at 4:30am?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

A.M.

90 Minutes of elliptical.  Tried running for 0.5 km but it wasn't happening for me.

Muslim Prayer time gets earlier by 2 minutes every morning, this is a great way to slowly get on an earlier workout schedule.

P.M.

45 Minutes on the elliptical. 30 minutes of weights.  Mostly leg workouts.

Some guy came into the gym wearing some crazy European running outfit and jumped on the treadmill and started making a total fool of himself, flailing arms, crazy stride and breathing so loud I could hear him over my Nickleback playlist.  I couldn't take it and finished my elliptical workout and then jumped on the treadmill next to him to show him a thing or two.  Before you knew it there were two idiots on the treadmill making total fools of themselves.  Man, I'm a wreck, I'd guess I'm at the same fitness level I was when I weighed 210 lbs.  Ouch!!

Comments
From Burt on Wed, May 18, 2011 at 01:37:14 from 72.223.90.79

At some point you're going to run out of morning.

From Rob on Wed, May 18, 2011 at 01:59:01 from 72.254.57.16

Nope, there are 6 of them, so the 2nd one will eventually take over the first one.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

A.M.

75 Minutes on the elliptical.   In the hotel gym, early in the morning, all alone in a country far far away.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

A.M.

90 Minutes on the elliptical, 20 minutes of weights

P.M.

60 Minutes on the elliptical, 30 minutes of weights.

Finally I am done, I get to get on a plane tomorrow afternoon and sit in coach for 20 hours.  I'm am going to attempt to put an end to my 2 week running hiatus tomorrow morning before my flight.  I really wanted to run across the bridge to the Asia side of Turkey  but I need the ability to push the stop button if things go wrong.  Oh well, next time.

Good luck to all you Ogden marathoners,  according to my iPhone it says the weather should be nice for Y'all.  I feel bad I can't do it.  The cool temperatures will help I'm sure.

Assuming I can run tomorrow and not do elliptical that is 10.5 hours on the elliptical this week, last week I may have over guessed on running equivalency, I will go with an avg of 7mph so a total of 73.5 +2.5 = 76 miles this week so far.  If I ever recover it will be interesting to see if my body thinks I have worked that hard.  I'm guessing it will rebel.

Comments
From Lily on Fri, May 20, 2011 at 01:02:34 from 67.199.178.210

Wow! You must travel oft for work. Crazy crazy.

Looks like your getting in some workouts. Good for you!

From Rob on Fri, May 20, 2011 at 01:45:55 from 72.254.90.253

Yeah, it is becoming a problem. Last year I was able to balance work and running but this year is crazy for work.

From Steam8 on Sat, May 21, 2011 at 02:16:12 from 166.70.55.77

Saw your report on Burts blog that your numbers have been going up despite staying off FRB...so, I took a peek. I am amazed at how many miles a week you do. Have you had any injuries? I seem to be plagued by them. Your personal info is really interesting. Very cool you have dropped so much weight and become so incredibly fast!

From Rob on Sat, May 21, 2011 at 18:58:06 from 166.137.137.243

Hey Steam, Thanks for visiting. Yeah, I seem to be accident prone. I don't know how to control myself when I'm feeling good so I always end up running my marathons partially injured and haven't ever been able to run at my full potential. Maybe one day I'll learn.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

Humm, well that stunk.  Plan was to try and force myself to go 12 but either my pain threshold has gone down or I'm in worse shape now than 2 weeks ago.  So much for taking time off.  Did 4 miles in about 31 minutes called it quits and hit the elliptical for 60 minutes.  Then went and did weights/ plyo type exercises for 30 minutes.  2 hours total.

Now for the long flight home,  next time I go to bed it will be in my own bed.  Gotta say though, Istanbul is on my top 5 list of favorite places I've been.   If you ever get a chance to come here don't pass it up, it's been a really great trip.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 4.00
Comments
From The Quiet Pirate on Sat, May 21, 2011 at 01:10:00 from 98.202.17.113

Turkey, huh? Went on a Mediterranean cruise a couple years ago and hit Ephesus. It was our favorite stop! Reminded me a lot of Utah in the spring, but it stays that way year round. Truly beautiful.

Sorry about the leg - these darn injuries must be contagious this year :(

From RAD on Sat, May 21, 2011 at 01:13:59 from 98.202.17.113

Rob, sorry! I was logged in as my sister (helping her with some pics on her blog). I noticed when it posted it was her, but it's not - it was me!

From RivertonPaul on Sat, May 21, 2011 at 18:46:46 from 71.38.224.155

Have a safe trip.

From Kelli on Sat, May 21, 2011 at 23:45:42 from 71.219.96.115

Have a safe flight!!! I could barely handle my 1.5 hour flight from Phoenix without losing my mind and my cookies So I am pretty sure Istanbul would never happen here!

Impressive hours on the elliptical, BTW. I can do 20 minutes TOPS and my feet are completely asleep.

From Rob on Sun, May 22, 2011 at 00:51:40 from 166.205.10.81

Yeah Kelli, Dr. Brinton. I called and made an appointment the day you suggested him. BTW, I hate the elliptical.

From RAD on Sun, May 22, 2011 at 01:14:10 from 98.202.17.113

The same day? I've been trying to call and I can't ever get someone to answer the dang phones! I must have the wrong number. Kelli, would you send it to me? Or Rob - when you get your head out of the clouds? :)

From Kelli on Sun, May 22, 2011 at 15:09:37 from 71.219.96.115

Good luck ROB! Hope it goes well. He may not know who I am (I have been in twice since February)---just mention the girl with the slip on the ice BUTT injury, I am sure THAT he can not forget. He is a great guy. I am sure you will be happy.

He is not super hard to get in to see, I went the same day I called one of the times and the next day the second time.

http://intermountainhealthcare.org/providers/profile.html?id=30307&brand=img

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Progress?  Yeah, I'd say probably compared to any attempt at a run I've had in the last 4 weeks this was progress.  Started with 15 minutes on the elliptical and noticed I was not really feeling much pain at all so I hit the treadmill very slow at first.  Could feel some tenderness but not the intense pain I've had in the past 12 weeks.  And I'm walking normal now, so maybe my 2 weeks off did pay off.

Never mind the fact my HR would indicate that my new 10K pace is 7:00min/mile.

10 minute cool down on the elliptical.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 8:29 8:29  142 151
 2 16:48 8:19  153 156
 3 24:47 7:59  157 160
 4 32:35 7:48  161 163
 5 40:09 7:34  164 166
 6 47:33 7:24  166 167
 7 54:42 7:09  169 171
 8 1:01:42 7:00  170 171
 Total1:01:46
 7:42  160 171

Oh, also wanted to mention.  It is so good to be back home, I just pulled out of my next event so potentially I could be in town until July, wow that's a record.  All the rain sure has made everything beautiful since I left 2 weeks ago.  Happy day!

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From RAD on Mon, May 23, 2011 at 13:08:51 from 98.202.17.113

Beautiful day being home, getting a good run in and getting to stay home for a while! Love it.

From Carina on Mon, May 23, 2011 at 13:11:39 from 204.15.86.83

Nice! And really there's nothing wrong with 7mm in a 10k. That's probably my pace, although I've never run a 10k so I don't know. Great run this morning :)

From Rob on Mon, May 23, 2011 at 13:32:01 from 206.71.84.68

Rachel, yeah life is good. Good job on Saturday BTW.

Carina, I know I shouldn't complain about my times. It probably makes me come across as arrogant, I'll have to work on that. It's just dis-heartening to see how all the hard work I put in the first 3 months of the year have now been wasted by stupidity.

From Kelli on Mon, May 23, 2011 at 22:02:10 from 71.219.96.115

Nice workout! Good to hear there was no pain.

How was the doctor?

From Rob on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 00:12:31 from 204.15.86.95

Doctor tomorrow!

From Kelli on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 14:28:34 from 71.219.96.115

I thought it was Monday, oops! Fill me in!

From Rob on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 14:31:54 from 166.205.11.108

Sitting in the waiting room now! Do you happen to know how much the running lab costs? I was just reading through the pamphlet.

From Rob on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 16:56:43 from 204.15.86.95

Initial prognosis. Stress fracture in my hip joint :( MRI tomorrow but I have been banned from running until proven otherwise.

From Kelli on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 20:04:35 from 71.219.96.115

OH!!! That is not good. Sorry to hear that. I hate MRI's. How long will you be out?

I have never sat in the waiting room long enough to read anything!!! Did you find out about it? Sounds interesting.

And, finally, did ya like him? He is a good guy.

From Rob on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 20:12:51 from 204.15.86.95

I liked him right up until the part where he told me not to run anymore. JK. He was very nice and and knowledgeable.

From Kelli on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 20:20:03 from 71.219.96.115

;o) Believe me, I feel the same way about him. Hopefully he gets you back on track soon. He is a runner, so he gets our craziness.

From RAD on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 21:17:51 from 98.202.17.113

Could you make me any more nervous for MY appointment tomorrow?!? :)

Rob, I am so sorry! I've had those same words spoken to me and I don't ever want to relive the weeks that followed! Hopefully the healing will happen quickly and you'll be back on your feet in no time. Let us know how the MRI goes.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Jetlag hit me hard last night, I just could not get to sleep.  I had to go try and sleep in the basement cause I was worried I was going to keep my wife up all night.  at 3:45am I gave up trying and just went to the gym.

While I was tossing and turning last night I had grand visions of a miraculous comeback after yesterday's 8 mile run.  I could see myself effortlessly running 6:30 pace again enjoying every moment.  Well it wasn't meant to be, did 15 minutes warm up on the elliptical and then went to the treadmill, instantly knew it wasn't going to happen again today.  Absolutely sick of the elliptical trainer I went and changed into my swim suit and swam 1600 meters in the pool.  They had the water very cold this morning, must be the new summer water temperature but if felt very good and woke me up from my restless night.  After I swam for 45 minutes I decided to change again and hit some weights.

I'm about 10 lbs heavier than I'd like to be, I hope at least 1/2 of that is muscle from all the weights I've been doing lately.

Going to see the doctor today, I have my doubts about him being able to help me anymore than what I've already tried but it's a last ditch effort.  I can't handle this much longer.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From Steam8 on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 10:10:21 from 166.70.55.77

What are you seeing the doc for? I hate those sleepless nights....I get them all the time and not from jetlag. I'm worried mine is from early menopause! ha!

From Rob on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 10:14:08 from 206.71.84.68

I've been going on 12 week now of a pulled something in my something (I'm not much of a medical specialist). I would have been to a doctor earlier but I've been out of state/country ever since it happened.

From Carina on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 13:55:35 from 204.15.86.83

Good luck! I hope you get it figured out. Good job with the cross training, I'm sure at least half of your extra weight is muscle :)

From allie on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 18:12:15 from 161.38.218.168

sorry rob. hope you get some answers from the doc. i also have a pulled something in my something. it's the worst injury ever.

From Rob on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 18:26:11 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks Allie. I got answers but not good ones. Looks like I'm out for at least 12 - 18 weeks with a hip stress fracture. I haven't cried this much since my dog died.

From Lily on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 18:30:42 from 67.199.178.210

Sorry Rob. I feel you... no really I do.

I cried a lot during the winter. I was a changed person. My husband said I looked like somebody had died. :(

I gained 10 lbs about 2 weeks into my injury as well. It's hard to say exactly if it was fat or muscle, because I started lifting a ton when I got hurt. I think it was a combo. Either way, it sucked big time! Chin up and let yourself heal. Your body knows what it's doing. Swimming sounds like a great option.

From Carina on Tue, May 24, 2011 at 19:22:35 from 204.15.86.83

Ugh!! I am so sorry!! You'll come back stronger and faster, I know it!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

As far as days go, yesterday was a pretty rough one.  I finally got around to seeing a Doctor.  Kelli from the blog (kind of like Jenny from the Block) suggested Dr. Brinton at Riverton Hospital, he's a 3:08 marathoner and I really wanted to see someone who would understand how I felt about running and wouldn't just tell me to stop unless absolutely necessary.  Going back through my logs, I found the exact workout that this injury happened.  http://robxt.fastrunningblog.com/blog-03-15-2011.html March 15th I was in New Orleans and did 4 X 1 mile repeats.  I remember that work out as quite a breakthrough and was very excited about where my fitness level had gotten.  The next day, I complained of soreness but thought that was expected after a good hard run, the next day I took the day off, which I seldom do and should have been the first clue something was terribly wrong.   For the next 11 weeks I just assumed it was a pulled muscle, or tendon, so I started Icying, messaging, and taking gobs of Ibuprofen, and worst of all kept trying to run through it.

After seeing the doctor yesterday I have found out that I have a Femoral Neck Stress Fracture,  http://orthopedics.about.com/od/hipinjuries/a/stress.htm  I had X-Rays done which did not actually show the fracture but you can see the signs of  the bone trying to repair, and there were no signs of muscle damage anywhere.  After reading up on this it’s amazing that a stress fracture never really crossed my mind,  I have all of the symptoms and none of the therapy I was doing did anything to help, in fact most of those treatments are the exact opposite of what I should have been doing,  Heat/not ice  and no Ibuprofen.  Anyway, the doctor was very blunt and said either stop running now or you’re going to need a hip replacement or at the very least some sort of surgery very soon, and the recovery would be much longer.  That news at the time was very upsetting, but after having some time to dwell over it I’m very happy to have a definitive answer finally.  At least now I can move forward and a least know what I should and shouldn’t be doing instead of always wondering.

I was all set to write some over dramatic blog entry about how I was going to leave the blog for a while since it would be to hard to read about other people running while I couldn’t.  Then a couple of things occurred to me, 1. That’s childish,  2. I’m still the same person, I still have the same goals,  I just need to figure out a different way to achieve those goals.  I realized that I’m a little bit different than most “runners” out there.  I actually don’t really enjoy running itself, like most people claim too, I don’t run because I enjoy being one with nature and feeling the breeze flow through my hair, I personally like to run for the end result, I love the burn in the lungs after a hard tempo run, I love the feel of sore legs after hill sprints, and I love finally being in the best shape of my life.  I think these differences in me are what got me to where I am so quickly,  I like to push myself every day.  Which is how I got into this predicament in the first place but I just have to deal with that.

The doctor did give me hope, recovery for this is anywhere from 10 -18 weeks typically,  It’s been 11 so far and granted most of that wasn’t recovery but I’m going to give myself the benefit of the doubt and say I’ve had at least 6 weeks of recovery,  he has told me that the elliptical trainer is fine, and swimming.  Cycling (not so much) so I have decided to use these tools I have been given and continue with the same passion I have always had.  I know it’s not nearly as cool to be an ellipticaler as a runner but right now that is my means to an end. 

I just went and looked back, I ran 325 miles on basically a broken leg over the last 11 weeks.  Oops!!

10 elliptical miles, 30 minutes of weights.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, May 26, 2011 at 14:50:41 from 204.15.86.83

Injuries are so hard. I remember after I had Siena and my hip was all messed up. I actually went to see Dr. Brinton as well. He's pretty straight forward as far as telling you what needs to be done to get better. Anyway, I think I cried for days, I felt like a piece of me was being ripped away! But the recovery process taught be how to keep my core strong, and how to be a smarter runner, meaning taking days off when I don't want to if something it hurting. You're not going to lose your fitness and it might take you a couple of weeks to get back at it once you can run again, but you'll come back strong I just know it!!!

From RivertonPaul on Thu, May 26, 2011 at 15:14:45 from 67.42.27.114

Rob, I have always been impressed by your resolve. No doubt, you will continue to amaze.

From Chad Robinson on Thu, May 26, 2011 at 15:22:56 from 67.136.62.186

I think it is a huge possitive that you actually know what is wrong now and not some mystery ailment (or worse - I've never seen that before). I hear you on the running enjoyment thing (or lack thereof). I run because I am pretty ok at it and it gives me a self esteem boost. Good luck on rehab and try to be patient.

From RobXT on Thu, May 26, 2011 at 15:24:45 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks Chad

Nice job in Ogden last weekend. Wish I could have been there.

From Chad Robinson on Thu, May 26, 2011 at 15:29:09 from 67.136.62.186

Thanks! It was the most amazing running experience I have ever had. I will have to catch up with you on the next one.

From DannyK on Thu, May 26, 2011 at 21:42:37 from 216.19.178.111

I'm impressed rob. I actually thought you were going to do a dramatic exit and say "F" it all. No matter what you say your reason for running is, you still have a passion for it and that's why I thought this would be a huge setback for you. I am proud to hear that you are thinking it through, deciding to deal with it and continue being healthy. You have came a long ways and I sure hope you know that those of us that have known you for many years are pretty darn proud of what you have done but more of how you have motivated others "including me". So like I have said for the last 11 weeks, stop running, get some rest, heal up and then get back out there and kick some 4ss!!!! :)

From allie on Fri, May 27, 2011 at 00:03:06 from 174.23.197.101

that's tough news to hear but i am really glad that you finally have some answers. you have a great attitude about it. best of luck with the cross training and the healing process.

325 miles on a broken leg. that's pretty amazing.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

2400 meter swim in ~58 minutes and then 45 minutes of weights.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Comments
From Burt on Fri, May 27, 2011 at 10:00:21 from 72.223.90.79

Nice XTing.

From RobXT on Fri, May 27, 2011 at 10:16:50 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks, you can call me Mr. XT.

From Burt on Fri, May 27, 2011 at 10:18:23 from 72.223.90.79

I pity the Xfool!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

10 Elliptical miles in 1:18:16.  Avg HR. 143

20 minutes of weights and core exercise.

Found out I'm going to New York next week for a few days, really bummed that I can't run, Central Park in June is awesome.  Isn't there a song about that??

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

10 miles on the elliptical in 1:23:00 Avg. HR 135. 

My hip is feeling way better, the pain is almost non-existanct unless I hop up and down on my left leg alone.  Knowing me I'm going to go out and think I'm  healed and hurt myself again.  Everything I've read about stress fractures is you know when it's healed when it stops hurting.  That seems odd, anyone know if that's entirely true?

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

10 Elliptical miles in 1:15:30. 

Wanted to go on a bike ride today,  but the weather is making that difficult.  Not that I can't ride in the rain, just don't want to.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 10.00
Comments
From DannyK on Mon, May 30, 2011 at 20:44:28 from 216.19.178.111

thought you weren't allowed to ride so you can heal?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

2400 meter swim in 55 minutes.  I tried so new breathing techniques today that I could tell made me much faster, I kept getting to the wall faster than I expected and missing my flip turns.  

Changed and hit the weights for 30 minutes and now I'm off to New York.

I feel like I'm getting dangerously close to being able to run again.  I say dangerously because I'm afraid I'm going to get overly excited and go out to early and end up getting hurt again.  I can walk without a limp, I think I mostly limp out of habit now and I can hop on my bad leg which is the scientific test my doctor put me through.  We'll see how it goes but I may not be able to restrain from a nice easy run in Central Park tomorrow morning.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Well I never was good at following directions,  couldn't help running in Central Park this morning.  My work friend is in town working at a different hotel so I made him wake up early and meet me for a run.  He is about a 10:00min/mile guy so I figured that would be perfect to run with him and keep me under control.   Hip felt really good most of the way, I tried to toe strike most of the run that seems to help and for the most part didn't really have any pain at all,  I could tell that on the downhills or if I tried to speed up a little things weren't totally back to normal but hey its a start.  Ran out around the resevoir and back for a total of 6, that was a bit far for poor Jeff but he'll live.

Got back to the hotel and decided to go to the gym for a bit more, 30 minutes on the elliptical.  While I was on the elliptical I kept thinking the guy next to me looked awfully familiar. After going back and forth between Fox news and looking at him I realized it was Mitt Romney.  I wanted to go talk to him but he seemed pretty deep in thought.  I day dream about running a really fast marathon when I work out, he dreams about running the nation.  Pretty close.  I thought that was strange but then realized I am in the New York Marriott Marquis, I'd imagine Marriott pays for all of Romneys hotel rooms.

Just to make sure I came back to my room (I have access to the hotel rooms list) and checked, sure enough, Willard M Romney is checked into the hotel under his very own name.

P.M.

Since I have to wake up at 2:45 am Utah time tomorrow morning to catch my flight home I decided to get my morning workout done tonight.

30 minutes on the elliptical, 30 minutes of weights

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00
Comments
From DannyK on Wed, Jun 01, 2011 at 14:21:32 from 72.254.63.247

That is the start to a good day if you ask me! Good job buddy. Glad you got to run the park in June like you wanted.

But be easy on your hip so you can get back into full swing, you don't want to keep irritating it and make healing take longer or worse, surgery!!!

As for Jeff, it's good for him. He needs the push. ;)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Travel day from New York so no workout, I disabled my blog from pubic view today.  Going rouge for a while.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

9 Elliptical miles in 1:13:09.  Went to the gym late due to staying up late watching a dumb chick flick with my wife.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

9 Elliptical miles in 1:15:14 Avg HR 126.  Must not have been working hard.  Did 15 minutes of weights and then came home to get Britt to the Dirty Dash.  She was in the 9:20 heat and did awsome.  38:18.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Felt icky this morning but for some reason jumping in cold water makes it so you can't really tell how your body feels.  I wanted to swim in the outside pool but there was a big sign saying it was closed.

2400 meters in ~55 minutes, then 20 minutes of weights, Bench press, shoulders, abs.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Not sure if I'm just going downhill, or just not feeling it today for some reason but 7 Elliptical miles in 59:50 was about all I had in me today.  Did some weights for 20 minutes after.  Back and legs.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I'm definitely getting better at swimming, Getting the whole breathing on both sides down.  2400 meters in ~55 minutes w/bathroom break.  30 minutes of weights.  Leg press, Bi's and Tri's.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Plan was to meet Dave at work and go on an early morning bike ride, he texted me last night and said he was to tired and thought it might rain, when I woke up this morning it wasn't raining so I decided to stick with the plan and just go alone.  1 mile into my ride I met up with a group of 9 other guys and asked if I could tag along, they said sure.  We went up Big Cottonwood canyon for a bit then turned off and went parallel to Wasatch going South, up Little Cottonwood to the turn off and then down to Wasatch, looped around through some neighborhoods and back.  22.2 miles round trip, I felt really great the whole time and was able to keep up with Mike (the group leader apparently) and on the hills I usually was able to pull ahead.  I'm glad to see I'm in decent shape still, I made them all feel bad when I told them I didn't ride bikes and this was only my second bike ride in 4 years.  They meet every Tuesday and Thursday, I think I will try and join them, I'm also trying to figure out logistically how to start commuting to work from home, it's a 20 mile route and I think I could easily handle it 2 times a day.  If weather permits I may ride home from work tonight and back tomorrow morning.

Rain stopped around 3:15 so I decided riding my bike home would be fun, Had a nice tail wind going South and made it in good time.  1:15 for ~25 miles.  My Garmin died half way home.

Bike Miles: 47.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Since my car was at work I had no choice but to ride my bike back.  Pretty hammered from yesterday and my butt was really sore, so my time was pretty slow compared to coming home.  Followed the Traverse Mountain road around Draper, even though I thought I knew it didn't, it sure seemed like it should have linked up with Wasatch Bvld,  But when I got to the end I found out it didn't.  So I had to backtrack back to 123rd down to 13th East and back up the brutal hill climb up to Wasatch Blvd.  Caught up with some older guy and ended up riding up Little Cottonwood canyon with him for a bit and then went back down the canyon to my work.  Route ended up being 26 miles in 1:34,  it's a really great workout but if I'm going to commute  I think I need to find a little flatter route.  I'd like to get my commute down to 1 hour if I absolutely need to and just make it longer for harder days.

Bike Miles: 26.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Feeling sorry for myself for not being able to run UVM today, I just woke up early and went to the gym for a swim.  While I was driving there at 4:30 I thought about all the people that had to wake up at 3:00 to catch the buses, that made me feel a little better.  (suckers)

2400 meter swim in ~53 minutes,  my times are coming down.  I may need to up my swims to 2 miles instead of the standard 1.5

Went to lunch yesterday with about 15 other FRB'ers.  That was fun, it was nice to meet other people.  Most of them had no idea who the heck I was but I decided to un-hide my account again since I told people where to find me on the blog.

Swim Miles: 1.50
Comments
From Carina on Sun, Jun 12, 2011 at 23:08:30 from 204.15.86.83

I'm glad you're back, I was wondering what happened to your blog.

If you can't run, lunch with fun people is the next best thing :) How's the hip healing up?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I feel like I wasted a morning today, pretty lazy.  We are hosting some professional soccer players from England at our house for a Challenger soccer camp my kids are doing this week.  They were so excited they could hardly stand themselves last night.  Its almost like they have never seen a house with a Pool Table, Pinball machine and full 7.2 surround sound theater in it before :)  So I was up late watching Iron Man 2 with them last night.

Woke up at normal time anyway and headed to the gym for 1 hour of elliptical and 30 minutes of weights.  Never really felt like I was working out.  I brought my bike up to my office (cube) and had my  friend adjust all the derailers and breaks for me so I can start commuting 3 -4 times a week on my bike.  I've decided between swimming and biking that will be my best non-running training I can do to start getting ready for St. George training.  I want to be done with elliptical, I feel like that is wasted time at this point.

The leg is feeling really good, but I want to give it as much time as possible before I start running on it so I can go into it full swing.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 11:19:38 from 204.15.86.83

Smart!! I'm sure you won't have lost any fitness at all when you start your training for St. George :)

From allie on Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 11:36:15 from 161.38.218.168

i really don't like the elliptical either. i think you can get a good workout on it, but i don't have the motivation to keep it moving long enough. :)

i have read several articles on cross training and what the best activity is to stay in good running shape. all signs point to pool running -- apparently fitness doesn't decrease at all with 6 weeks of pool running. i still haven't done it yet, because logistically it just doesn't work with my daily schedule. i don't love biking like i love running, but i do enjoy it, and it's something i can fit into my schedule and be motivated to do on a daily basis. if someone told me my only cross training option available was the elliptical, i really think i would give up and gain 50 pounds. :)

it looks like you have a great plan with the biking and swimming. keep it up and stay motivated. reading about what you are doing helps me stay motivated as well!

From Rob on Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 11:44:59 from 206.71.84.68

I don't really get the pool running thing. I think I'd get weird looks from the swimmers if I jumped in the pool with shoes on and started running back and forth. They'd be like, duh! stupid, the treadmills are upstairs.

From Chad Robinson on Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 17:31:59 from 67.136.62.186

I guess it can't be to surprising that the best cross training to simulate running is running (albeit in water). We all just need to own one of those endless pools. I actually like the fact that on the elliptical I can adjust my effort as I want without having to push a button to pull me along faster. Hang in there.

From Steam8 on Tue, Jun 14, 2011 at 03:38:51 from 166.70.55.77

I hope you are healed up soon! It is so hard to stay off your running feet!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Met with my new cycling group, it works out really nice cause they start like 1/2 mile away from my work and know routes around Salt Lake that I never new existed.  Dave came with us this morning too.  Went North today out to Sunnyside up around the Zoo and back on Wasatch.  The group seemed really chatty this morning so when we got to Sunnyside I sprinted up to the Zoo cause I was bored with the slow pace, I pretty much pushed the pace hard the rest of the way back.  Felt good, absolutely perfect morning for a bike ride, gotta take advantage of the extra sunlight for the next couple of weeks.

If I'm not careful I may need to leave this blog and join Fastbikingblog.com.

Bike Miles: 25.50
Comments
From RAD on Thu, Jun 16, 2011 at 00:25:26 from 98.202.17.113

don't leave us for the cheaters, uh I mean bikers :)

Glad you are healing well! It was good to see you Friday.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Rode my bike to work, the first 8 miles just seemed like a bike commute but then when I started heading up into the foothills it was actually quite enjoyable.  I started going North on 13th but then got bored and headed up 106th and took Dimple Dell road.  Great ride and felt really good the whole way.  Went up Little Cottonwood to the intersection and then back down to Wasatch.  My morning rides I don't mind going long but I would love to get my commute home to right around 1 hour.  If it wasn't for all the detours and construction in my neighborhood I could probably do it.  But the closed road adds about 3 miles to the commute.

25.85 miles in 1:24  Avg Speed 18.4. 

I have 1 week to get my leg healed, next week I fly out for 3 weeks so no bike.  First stop, South Beach Miami, maybe barefoot running on the beach will be a good way to get back into running.

P.M.

Rode my bike home, 21.9 miles in 1:14:41 Avg speed 18 mph with a very un-favorable wind.

Bike Miles: 47.75
Comments
From allie on Wed, Jun 15, 2011 at 21:50:47 from 24.10.191.18

way to kill it on the bike. it makes all of my bike rides look extremely pathetic (which they are).

barefoot beach running sounds like the perfect remedy to me!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Rode with my new friends again this morning.  There was a new guy from Australia that was know for his hill climbing skills.  It was fun to have someone to race up all the hills against.  The rest of the group probably didn't appreciate our hard effort up every hill but I sure had alot of fun. He only beat me once to the top of Dimple Dell  Very much like interval work today, hard uphill sprints followed my relaxed downhill coasting.

Garmin is dead so I don't know my average pace or time.

Bike Miles: 22.20
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Jun 16, 2011 at 20:07:19 from 204.15.86.83

Nice work, seriously I want to ride a bike someday!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I felt like I had forgotten how to swim this morning, it took me about 10 laps to get my breathing right so I didn't feel like I was suckin air every stroke.  Finally got into it, I was going to try for 2 miles but 48 laps is about all I'm good for.  Not physically, just mentally.

1.5 miles in 55 minutes.

Yesterday my work had a health clinic in the office, I found out I still have really high cholesterol and they suggested  I should do more cardiovascular activity.  Any ideas on how I can increase my cardiovascular activity :)  Perhaps I should take up jogging, I heard that's pretty good for you.

 

http://ryanhall.competitor.com/2011/06/14/how-many-miles-do-you-run/

Swim Miles: 1.50
Comments
From Lily on Fri, Jun 17, 2011 at 11:10:57 from 67.199.178.210

spin spin spin :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I was going to ride up American Fork Canyon this morning but it was cold and windy and I thought that sounded miserable so I went from my house and threw a couple of my running routes together for a flat ride.  Went out main street Lehi to Utah Lake, up to Redwood, back over camp Williams into Bluffdale up to the frontage road and back home.  I was trying to keep a 20 Mph avg and I would have gotten away with it if it too weren't for that pesky mountain I live on.  I think runners probably make good time trial cyclists because we are trained to keep our legs moving even when going downhills.  This flat route was just what I needed, a longish route where I could keep my HR at a fairly constant rate for over 90 minutes.  I would have liked to go further but I have a huge list of house chores since this will be my last weekend in town for the next 5 weeks.

32 miles in 1:40:15  19.2 Mph avg,  149 avg HR.

Bike Miles: 32.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Having an easy day is 1 thing, but having it because I'm lazy really upsets me.  I was planning on riding my bike to work today, but the rain last night scared me off.  I apparently forgot to turn on my alarm clock last night so I slept in until 5:00, looked outside and it as absolutely beautiful out and actually warmer than some of the days I've ridden in so I'm not sure what my issue was but I wimped out and just went to the gym anyway.  7 elliptical miles in 59 minutes.

This week is going to be pretty light, Scout Camp on Wednesday, and an early flight on Friday to Miami.  Plan is to hit it hard next week in Miami, whether it's running or something else I plan to do doubles as often as possible.  I really need to drop my injury weight before starting St. George training.  I'd like to get some sort of base running miles in before that starts too.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Jun 20, 2011 at 22:53:56 from 24.10.191.18

have you been cleared to run yet?

injury weight. arg!

From Rob on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 11:05:40 from 206.71.84.68

I'm not going to go back to the Doctor, he would just tell me what I think I already know.

In my mind right now as far as running goes the only thing that matters to me is St. George, I have given myself a drop dead date of July 11th (12 weeks out) to get ready. I think 12 weeks is about the bare minimum I can get ready in. If I'm not ready to start training by July 11th then I guess I wont ever be ready and may just start biking full time, or Golfing sounds nice.

I do however think I will be ready by then, I went out last night and did a little barefoot running in the grass and I think I'm really close. I just want to give it as much time as possible so I don't blow it out again in the first week of training.

Thanks for checking in on me though!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Met my bike friends this morning and went for an absolutely beautiful early morning ride out around Hoogle Zoo and back on Wasatch, my legs were a bit jelloy still but I won every hill climb challenge and after getting to the end of our ride one of the guys told me he's glad I was going out of town cause he can't keep up with me, (I think he was joking, but not sure) and then they asked me if I wanted to join their LotoJa team.  Humm, interesting thought.  3 weeks out from St George.

This story is going to border on the line of a Burt story.  When I got back to my office building I went to the showers and then started putting on my clothes that I had brought last Friday and left in the locker, put my shirt on, socks on, and then tried to get my pants on,  humm they didn't fit, at all.  Have I gotten that fat?  Looked down and realized I had accidently packed my wifes pants, and un-fortunately, in this case, she is much smaller than me.  So paint the picture, me in a dress shirt, lycra shorts, black dress socks and a pair of Nike Free's, and the only place I could think of that sells pants at 7:00am is Walmart.  Yep, if someone had a camera I'm going to end up on the people of Walmart website for sure.  How Embarrassing!!

On a happier note, last night my kids wanted to race me around the yard, so I took off my shoes and ran barefoot in the grass with my kids.  My hip seemed to hold up pretty well, it didn't hurt at all, but it didn't feel exactly normal.  I think I have forgotten how to run but I'm sure it will come back.  I'm going to continue to be a cyclist for 1 more week and then slowly start running.

25.5 miles in 1:20:45  18.9 mph avg.

Bike Miles: 25.50
Comments
From Burt on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 12:55:56 from 206.19.214.144

Now how is THAT a Burt story??? Geez! I don't wear women's clothes. Often.

From Rob on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 13:01:13 from 206.71.84.68

I don't know, I just thought McDonalds stories and Walmart stories went hand in hand.

From Burt on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 13:07:48 from 206.19.214.144

I do enjoy a good round of People of Walmart photos.

From allie on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 21:56:37 from 24.10.191.18

ha! great story. that is one of the reasons why i am hesitant to bike to work. i am glad your hip is feeling good -- your comeback plan is smart.

From Burt on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 23:18:12 from 72.223.90.79

Here's a good story of a wardrobe malfunction.

http://burt-mccumber.fastrunningblog.com/blog--Another-run-home-from-work-nbsp-This/10-29-2009.html

From Carina on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 at 23:40:50 from 204.15.86.83

LOL literally!! Did you take a picture? That is something I would have paid money to see.

From Rob on Thu, Jun 23, 2011 at 11:21:56 from 206.71.84.68

Burt, they have running shorts with built in underwear. Much more comfortable too.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

No workout yesterday except running from 30 9 year old boys with foam swords at Cub Scout camp.  I'd have to say though, if I can do that my leg must be pretty close to being able to run again.  I'm actually afraid to start running again, what if I'm not as fast as I used to be, what if I hurt myself again,  I sure hope the fitness comes back quick, I really don't want to start from scratch.  That was hard!

So today I went for my last group bike ride for a while, warmish temps but once again an awesome ride,  Tim, the Australian wanted to break ahead of the main group and get some miles going up Little Cottonwood before doing the normal 22 mile loop, so a group of 4 of us went ahead and started up the canyon, it was absolutely beautiful up the canyon this morning, a nice cool breeze and the river was raging.  Went up to gate B which was about 3 miles up and then came back down.  I'm a little bit timid coming down canyons like that, I hit a top speed of 47 but I'm sure the others hit 55 or so.  To scary for me, people die going that fast, I'm sure they die going 47 too.

Finished the regular Thursday loop and ended up going 30 miles in 1:45. 16.7 mph avg speed.

Early flight to Miami tomorrow.

Bike Miles: 30.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
1.000.000.000.001.00

4 laps around the 1/4 mile loop by my house while waiting for the airport shuttle to come get me.  Felt good, I'm ready for a comeback.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Wow!  What a way to make a come back to running, 6 weeks since I last ran, 14 weeks since I ran without agonizing pain.  My wife is always jealous of my traveling and says I'm just on vacation all the time.  Normally I tell her it's no vacation and I have to work the entire time.  Well not this trip, she has every reason to be jealous of this one, I'm livin the dream.  I'm staying at the Eden Roc hotel on Miami South beach, they put me in a huge suite with a balcony and my bed is facing the window so when I wake up in the morning I look out on to the beach and ocean.  

I woke up at 5:00 am expecting it to be light for some reason, layed in bed and at 5:30 decided it wasn't getting light anytime soon so I headed to the hotel gym, did 1 elliptical mile and then decided to try out the ol' leg,  hopped on the treadmill, started slow and then worked my way up to 7:00 /mile pace.  Ran 3 miles in just under 23 minutes, it started getting light so I headed outside.  Ran along the boardwalk for 2.5 miles and then decided to try barefoot running on the beach back, took off my shoes and carried them.  Ran along the beach line with the waves hitting my feet, if felt great.  It was brutally hot and humid this morning, and I've never done it before but I decided I was at the beach and would normally just be in a swimsuit anyway so I took my shirt off and ran barefoot and shirtless.  Loved every minute of my run this morning, it felt good and my hip never acted up at all.  8 miles may have been a little over zealous for my first run back but hey, you can't argue with a run like that.

Now off to the part my wife shouldn't be jealous of, work.

 

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 5.50Elliptical Trainer Miles: 1.00Barefoot Miles: 2.50
Comments
From Lily on Sat, Jun 25, 2011 at 20:56:45 from 67.199.178.210

ha ha, awesome Rob! Enjoy your time.

From Rob on Sat, Jun 25, 2011 at 21:13:24 from 12.228.43.91

Thanks Lily, the work part of my day really took away from the awesomeness.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
1.000.000.000.001.00

Went to the gym this morning, mainly cause all the people in the hall all night made it impossible to sleep.  My barefoot running on the beach yesterday gave me a pretty big blister on my toe so I opted for the elliptical today.  6 elliptical miles in 46 minutes, then I did some weights and stretching.  Came back to my room and grabbed my wallet and ran along the boardwalk to Walgreens to get some Muscle Milk and a fruit cup for breakfast.  On the way back there were a bunch of swimsuit models on the beach doing a photo shoot, They were modeling the new ever so popular one piece bikinis,  I think I know what I'm getting my wife for Christmas this year.  Needless to say, this was a huge distraction on my run to the grocery store.  Miami is still in America isn't it?  I thought public nudity was against the law,  I guess if you look like that no one is going to walk up and give you a ticket.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 1.00Elliptical Trainer Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Carina on Sun, Jun 26, 2011 at 12:56:20 from 204.15.86.83

Nice Sunday run! LOL I'm going to look up these one piece bikinis, I don't get how that's a one piece.

From Rob on Sun, Jun 26, 2011 at 20:55:47 from 72.254.93.142

So what you do, is put on a bikini but only the bottom part of it. = 1 piece. Ask the Target worker if you can get just 1/2 of the bikini for 1/2 price.

From Carina on Mon, Jun 27, 2011 at 09:56:06 from 204.15.86.83

LOL!!

From jtshad on Tue, Jun 28, 2011 at 15:11:25 from 204.134.132.225

Much better scenery than in the sandy area I run out in the desert.

Have fun in sunny Florida...get out get some sun!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.500.000.000.009.50

Horrible day at work yesterday, Horrible sleep last night.  Pretty great run this morning. 

Did 3 miles on the treadmill in about 22 minutes and then when it started getting light I went out to the Boardwalk, realized the Boardwalk is lit the entire way so running on the treadmill waiting for the sun is pointless.  Seems like I have recovered really well, no hip pain at all,  Here is the plan, in 2 weeks from today I start a 12 week program for St. George, for the next 2 weeks the plan is to just get some slow base miles in and try not to worry about my painfully slow pace (Yet).  I will try to get between 45 and 50 miles this week and maybe 50 - 55 next.  Turns out my cross training worked, I still remember how to run, but my legs are really muscle sore.  I'm amazed I can go out and run 9.5 miles pretty easily though.  

In the park there were a few rowdy hooligans thinking it was pretty fun to harass the runners and jog along side them makes snide comments, I noticed them running with another runner up ahead, when I got to them one of them put out his thumb like a hitch hiker,  I told him "come on, lets go" and took off at a good sub 6:00 pace, dropped him in about 25 meters :)  I'm glad I still have some kick, now I just need to hold that pace.

The bikinis models were out again today, hey, it's not my fault if they are right along my running route.  Jeez, don't judge me.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 9.50
Comments
From allie on Tue, Jun 28, 2011 at 15:17:25 from 24.10.191.18

wow! big miles already. that's great to hear. your plan looks good -- i hope everything holds up and you can stay strong through your training. i'm glad it feels like the cross training paid off for you. for me, i haven't been able to run long enough or fast enough to tell. but my legs do feel sore after just three miles of running. shoot!

bikini models...geez...

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Wow! My legs are really sore.  They act like they haven't ever ran before.  Finally got a good night sleep last night, I was really surprised when the first time I woke up it was already time to get up.  Went straight to the lit boardwalk and ran out 3.5 miles, I saw lots of people running on the beach so I went to the beach, turns out that far down there is a hard packed section of sand where the work trucks drive so it makes for good sand running. Started running back and then the sand started getting soft again making it hard to run so I went back to the boardwalk to finish.  Really slow running, but like I said I'm just trying to remember how to run for now.  Pace doesn't matter,  7 miles in exactly 60 minutes.  No hooligans, no bikini models just a "normal" day at the beach.

Off to work, I've been here 4 days and haven't once been in the sun yet.  Lame, I could use a tan.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Kelli on Tue, Jun 28, 2011 at 14:39:45 from 71.219.92.225

Sorry no bikini models to distract you! That is a bummer. ;o)

7 miles in 63 minutes is not slow! I guess it is all relative since you are super speedy, though.

I will need to come and check your St George plan. Maybe I will have to follow it....something needs to motivate me. Honestly, it is my favorite race. The drive to run it just for fun, nice and easy, is pretty strong right now.

Come home to Utah, you can get a decent tan here.

From Rob on Tue, Jun 28, 2011 at 14:57:53 from 72.254.165.107

My St. George plan is what broke my leg in the first place, so I'm not sure why I would follow it again :)

I would love to come back home to Utah, but I'm a long way from that, I have a detour through New York for 2 weeks and then Wyoming for another before I get to come home.

From Carina on Tue, Jun 28, 2011 at 18:52:19 from 204.15.86.83

Yay!! You're running again!

From Rob on Tue, Jun 28, 2011 at 19:31:45 from 72.254.59.197

Yep, so far so good! My Hip seems to be holding up pretty well.

From Kelli on Wed, Jun 29, 2011 at 14:50:56 from 71.219.92.225

Never mind, I will not follow your plan. I do not need anything broken!!!

Hmmm....New York sounds fun, not sure about Wyoming, though.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Last night I went to the hotel gym for about 30 minutes just to stretch out, I could feel my hip.  It didn't hurt, but the fact that I could feel it made me think I needed to switch things up today.  Went to the gym and did 4 elliptical miles and then decided to try out barefoot beach running again.  Dropped my shirt and shoes off at a pool side table and hit the beach, started out just barely light, probably one of the coolest running experiences ever, running along the shoreline all alone on a beach that goes as far as the eye can see.  Don't under estimate the workout you get from running barefoot in sand with waves knocking your legs every few seconds, it's like hill climbs X 10.  It started to rain really hard but that just added to the ambiance, I was already soaking wet from the waves splashing on me so a nice cool rain felt really nice.  Ran 2 miles out and then turned around.

I don't understand why I only get a blister on one of my toes doing this.  My right middle toe had a huge blister on top of the huge blister I got last Saturday from beach running.  I wasn't going to pop it but at closer examination I noticed it was completely full of sand, pretty weird.  So I popped it put a bandaid on and now off to another busy day of work.  Can't say I'm ready for this conference to be over, as much as I like running in Central park I doubt it can beat this place.  I'm coming back here in November again for a different conference so I have that to look forward to.

 

 2 miles, to and from Dolphin stadium for the U2 concert.


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 2.00Elliptical Trainer Miles: 4.00Barefoot Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Yesterday morning on the elliptical trainer I was watching the local Miami news and noticed that they were talking about the upcoming U2 concert, I thought that would be pretty cool if it was this weekend and I could somehow figure out how to stay and go to it. Later in the day while I was working I remembered I wanted to look it up and found out that the concert was actually last night.  I thought I had to work late last night so didn't really think much more about it.  At 6:00 pm the people I'm working for told me to go ahead and leave, they didn't think they would need me anymore,  I looked it up and found out the stadium was only 11 miles away and I have a rental car so I decided to jump in and go check it out.  Well it took me 1.5 hours to drive 11 miles, finally I ditched the car in a grocery store parking lot and ran the remaining 2 miles to the stadium.  Went to the ticket window and they had nose bleed tickets for $34.  What a deal.  I had a lot of fun, going to a rock concert alone is kind of boring, especially the 1 1/2 hour wait in between the opening act and U2 but it was a lot of fun none the less.  I had felt really bad that I missed the SLC concert so I got that out of my system.  I ended up leaving early since 11:00pm is way past my bed time.

Slept in till 6:00, ran down to the hotel gym, started out on the elliptical and decided I would feel bad if I didn't log actual miles so I got on the treadmill. Progressive run pushed the pace a bit, nothing crazy but definately running instead of the jogging I have been doing this week.

6 miles in 43:50  7:18 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00Elliptical Trainer Miles: 1.50
Comments
From RAD on Thu, Jun 30, 2011 at 10:12:54 from 98.202.17.113

Nice to see those miles adding up, especially when they are running to a U2 concert! :) $34 the day OF for U2 tickets?!? Wow, I am jealous.

Nice job getting the miles in at a great pace!

From Teena Marie on Thu, Jun 30, 2011 at 11:36:14 from 67.2.95.170

Rob ... laughing so hard!!! I will let Sophia know. :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.150.000.000.0010.15

Last day in Paradise.  I fly out to New York this afternoon so I wanted to get one last long run along the beach in.  No more barefoot running though, that gave me bad blisters.  I wanted it to be cool this morning from the rain storms yesterday, no such luck, all the rain storm did was make it very very humid.  The humidity really took it out of me today, but that was OK I just wanted a slow longer run anyway.

Ran all the way to the end of the trail, which is just over 4.5 miles so I had to run up along the boat docks for another 1/2 mile to get to an even 5, turned around and decided maybe running on the beach was at least a little cooler from the breeze, which it was but the sand makes it much slower running.  So I ran in the sand for about 1 mile and then went back to the trail and took a drink at the park.  All my beach and drink detours added .15 miles to the run. 

10.15 miles in 1:19:45  7:52 pace.  I was keeping it pretty steady at 8:00 the entire way but then ran the last mile in 6:30 just cause its fun to run fast past people :).

Central Park tomorrow, hope it's cooler there.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 10.15
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Jul 01, 2011 at 12:36:25 from 204.15.86.83

Nice running, have fun in New York! I'm jealous!!

From allie on Fri, Jul 01, 2011 at 12:59:59 from 24.10.191.18

your mileage already -- wow!

From Rob on Fri, Jul 01, 2011 at 13:29:44 from 166.137.9.116

Carina, you got to run in San Fran. That's one of my favorite running places. So no need to be jealous.

Allie, yeah! I'm a little freaked out how fast it came back to me. I dont want to over do it but there is zero pain. I think that means it's fine.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

I'll be the first to admit, I have a crazy life.  How do I wake up one morning running on the beach getting a tan by the ocean, and then be eating a thin crust pizza slice in Time Square for dinner?  The only thing that keeps my life normalized is running.  No matter where I am I can always wake up and do one thing that's consistant.  

What a difference 20 degrees and 30% humidity makes, started from my hotel (Marriott Marquis) in Times Square, ran up Broadway to the park (about 1 mile) and then ran the "long" inner loop  about 5 miles.  When I got back to the corner of Central Park and Broadway I decided 7 miles wasn't enough so I did one more "short loop" and then back.  For just over 9 miles.

In Miami I sometimes struggled to keep an 8 min/mile pace,  this morning I kept looking down and seeing sub 7:00's for the same perceived effort.  I kept telling myself to slowdown, I guess being on the same road that some of the fastest marathoners in the world have raced on makes me want to run fast.   I decided 7:15 is where I wanted to be for this mornings run, slower on the uphills faster on the downs.  On one of the longer downhill sections I decided to push the pace and bit and see how it felt,  my hip felt a little bit twingy at 6:15 pace so I backed off, I'm not quite ready to push it that hard yet. 

Ended up with ~9 miles, (GPS doesn't work until I get to the park) in ~ 1:06.  7:20 avg pace after dealing with traffic coming back down Broadway.  Oh! that was the other huge difference, it gets very light here at 5:00 am.

Who'd of thought I could do a 50 mile week after not really running for almost 12 weeks.  Crazy!  Biking and swimming paid off.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00Elliptical Trainer Miles: 2.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Bad news, my Hip was bothering me last night after my little downhill sprint in the park yesterday.  I hope I didn't break anything.

I pretty much have the day off of work today, which is lame.  I could have either flown home from Miami for 1 day or come straight here.  I decided I didn't want to sit on the plane that long just to turn around and come back, now I'm thinking I should have just for the airline miles.  Today would have been a great day to run in Central park since I have all day but I decided I needed a break.  Well I woke up at 5:30 with nothing to do so I went to the Hotel Gym.  They have a super cool video spin bike which is just a regular spin bike with a virtual spin class which you can pick your workouts from.  I decided to do the 1 hour interval class.  It was just like being in a real spin class but that video guy never got tired.  Cheater.  It was a really good workout and the screen said I went 18 miles, which seemed about accurate.

Now a whole day off in New York by myself.  And they hotel doesn't have Verses so no Tour De France.  Humm!  I'm pretty lonely can you tell???

 

P.M. 30 minutes on the elliptical and 30 minutes of weights.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 3.50Bike Miles: 18.00
Comments
From allie on Sun, Jul 03, 2011 at 16:26:24 from 24.10.191.18

still traveling? i hope your hip is ok...

From Rob on Sun, Jul 03, 2011 at 21:00:25 from 72.255.100.218

Yeah, I'm still away. I'm pretty sure this is the longest stretch away I've ever done. I really hate it and my kids think I've left them.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.150.000.000.009.15

I slept in this morning and didn't get out the door until 6:00, I was kind of shocked that there were hardly any cars or people out.  Then I realized, Oh!  I'm probably the only person in the entire Country that has to work today.  Well, I'm sure some people have to work today, but not many.

Beautiful morning in the park, good temperature but the humidity was a bit stifling.  There was a lady I saw from a distance running with her dog and a baby jogger, when I got closer I saw inside the baby jogger and it wasn't a baby at all, it was another dog.  I thought, now that's a good pet owner, take your dog for a jog in the park even if it's to old or crippled to run itself.

Same Central Park I did last Saturday, once around the long loop, once around the short.  My watch is on the charger now, but I think it was like 9 miles in 1:07.  7:30 avg pace.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 9.15
Comments
From Carina on Tue, Jul 05, 2011 at 02:35:54 from 174.253.182.41

You're making me want to go to new York just to run in central park!! And maybe shop a little too:)

From Rob on Tue, Jul 05, 2011 at 06:00:32 from 72.254.60.119

You should fly out with Britt next week. She will need a shopping partner while I'm working.

From Carina on Tue, Jul 05, 2011 at 11:29:34 from 204.15.86.83

I would so love that!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Decided I wanted a change of scenery this morning, watching the fireworks from my hotel room window last night gave me the idea to go run the Hudson River bike trail.  I've never done it before but have had a number of people tell me to try it.  got an earlier start 5:30 found the trail right at the Intrepid Aircraft carrier museum and started heading up the river,  I had no idea how far it went but knew it hooked up with Central Park somewhere along the way so that was the initial plan, but the trail kept going and going, I wanted to see how far it went but when I hit the 6 mile mark I decided I'd had enough and 12 miles was probably pushing my still recovering hip so I turned around.

Pretty nice trail, nice and flat and a nice breeze coming off the river.  It was more like running through a land fill a lot of the way with all the garbage left over from firework goers last night.  But other than the stench and trash a very nice run :)

12 miles in 1:30:12  7:31 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.501.000.000.008.50

Kept waking up all night wondering if it was time to go run.  Not sure why I was so excited to go run cause when time finally came I sure didn't feel like it any more.  Legs started out pretty stiff, and I was just all around tired.  Took about 5 miles into my 8 mile run to get in to it.  Plan was to just run an easy pace 8 around the long inner Park circle.  Started out as planned then when I got to the far side of the park I started feeling frisky.  There is a pretty large up hill that cyclists tend to struggle going up, I made it a goal to start passing as many of the straggling cyclist as possible.  I ended up only passing 2 but it was fun anyway.  After that a guy came off of one of the trails about 100 M ahead of me running a pretty good clip so I made it my goal to use him as a rabbit, chased him for about a mile, finally caught him, talked to him for a few seconds and then off I went.  When I got to the turn off I realized I was only going to be 7 miles so I cut across the park on some walking path and met back up with the main road.  Was planning on taking the final loop nice and slow but I sensed that I was now the Rabbit.  I could hear footsteps coming up behind me going up a slight hill.  I looked back and it was some guy who obviously made it his goal to have me for breakfast. (figuratively) I picked up the pace to about 6:00 going uphill and to my surprise he stayed with me, at the top of the hill he started to pass me.  I thought to myself  "come on guy, do you really want to do this?"  He did.  We started going downhill at that point so I hit my 5:35 button (surprised I still had one) after that the poor guy didn't stand a change.  I just started rollin' and never looked back.  I was quite happy to get an un-expected speed workout in and happy to find I still have some kick in my legs.

Now it's time for me to go catch some breakfast.  In the Concierge lounge.

8.5 miles in 1:03:30


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.001.001.000.0010.00

I did the Hudson River trail again today because I wanted to try and do some sort of tempo run to evaluate my fitness.  Plus I'm running a 5K race in Wyoming in my wifes hometown next week which 1 year ago I told her I would win it this year.  It will actually be the first 5K I have ever raced.  Strange huh?  Well I have no idea what my 5K speed is, truthfully I have no idea what any pace is at this point.  So I wanted to run a short 2 mile tempo just to see what I could do.  Plan was to just try and go under 12:00 for the 2 miles, I was kind of thinking 5:45 pace in the back of my head.  So I ran down to the trail, ran out to the 5 mile point at 7:05 average pace, turned around got a drink of water, ran 1 mile in 7:30 to try and cool down.  Then I hit the gas, found 5:45 and tried to hang on, did the first 1/4 in 85 which was good, probably to good,  I knew at that point I wasn't going to be able to hold it, next 1/4 in 87 then I just lost it, all but gave up and slowed way down.  Despite feeling sorry for myself for not being able to keep the pace I decided I might as well still get a workout out of it.  So I found 6:20 pace and just kind of stayed there for a while but slowly over the 2 kept getting slower and slower.  2 mile tempo in 12:45  6:22 avg.  Stopped, got a drink and ran the last 2 miles back to the hotel slow feeling bad for myself.  It was awfully humid which I'm sure had something to do with it, but truth is I'm just not in the shape I wish I was, but hey, really what can I expect after 12 weeks off.

I guess I wont be winning the 5K next week.

10 miles in 1:10:55  7:05 avg.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Jul 07, 2011 at 13:56:22 from 204.15.86.83

It will come back!! Just be patient!

From Lily on Thu, Jul 07, 2011 at 14:07:11 from 67.199.178.210

You lead an adventurous life :)

I agree with Carina, it will come back.

From Rob on Thu, Jul 07, 2011 at 14:48:00 from 72.255.96.96

It might come back, but I might be to old to run by then.

So, I told my local co-worker guy where I went running this morning and he said. "Do you realize that is Harlem?" I said "nope, had no idea. I thought the whole island was Manhattan" I was wondering where all the runners went. Perhaps if I would have known I was in Harlem I would have run faster :)

From Burt on Thu, Jul 07, 2011 at 19:09:20 from 206.19.214.144

Blacks don't run long distance.

There's still hope for you to win that 5k. Kick all the whiteys in the knees.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I really like my job, until it interferes with my running.   DS3 went down 3 times last night, I literally did not sleep.  Sometimes you say that because you lay in bed without being able to go to sleep.  Nope, I was actually sitting in front of a computer in a cold dungeon of a telephone room all night long.  Went up to my room at 5:30 am, took a shower, changed my clothes, had a banana and redbull for breakfast and now I'm back in front of a computer screen watching pretty graphs.  So no run!!  Probably for the best, that's when I tend to get injured, when my body is physically drained from working to many hours.

Comments
From Tara on Fri, Jul 08, 2011 at 21:46:36 from 75.169.157.72

I agree with the whole job thing. Love my job till it interferes! Why can't we all be professional runners and make it work? :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.000.000.000.0013.00

Pretty tough run this morning, not cause I'm out of shape or wasn't ready, but because it was just a pretty tough course.  Ran the entire perimeter of Central Park, pretty much a gradual downhill all the way out and a really steep climb all the way back.  Go figure that!! The cobble stone side walks really beat up the legs and feet.  Was disappointed when I finished the loop and saw that it was only 6 miles, I wanted 14 miles today so I new I'd have to run the entire inner long loop.  Those rolling hills really start to take it out of you!  The hills aren't as steep as hills in Utah but the way they keep rolling really makes it tough. 

They were setting up for what looked like a 10K race in the park today.  My first sign there was a race is a taxi pulled up in front of me coming up 5th Ave and 3 elite Kenyans jumped out.   You can always tell the elite Africans cause they always have on their way too over sized Asics warm-up suits and carrying an extra pair of running shoes by the laces.

Pretty much ran the entire race course, which was cool cause I felt like I was winning.  I was the first one through all the aid stations and was pretty much the only one on the road. No one was cheering for me though. 

Anyway, I was pretty glad to just be done with the loop when I finished and didn't really feel like trying to figure out how to get an extra mile out of it so I just ran back to the hotel and called it good at ~13. 

13 miles in 1:35  7:18 avg pace.  I looked at my watch for distance, but never really let it influence how fast I went.  Just kind of ran the whole time at a "comfortable" pace.


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 13.00
Comments
From allie on Sat, Jul 09, 2011 at 13:43:20 from 24.10.191.18

cool route! wish i could have made it in time...

it's so nice to see you putting in those running miles again.

From Rob on Sat, Jul 09, 2011 at 13:49:50 from 67.217.136.66

Thanks Allie, I sure hope I've been smart about it. My hip never really bothers me during the run but it's a little achy some days after I'm done.

Official training schedule starts on Monday, we'll see how that goes.

Yes, I still need schedules. I'm not like you who is always ready for race day.

From Burt on Sat, Jul 09, 2011 at 17:12:05 from 72.223.90.99

Winning! I'm surprised you haven't gotten mugged yet.

From Rob on Sat, Jul 09, 2011 at 17:25:29 from 67.217.136.66

New York isn't like that anymore. It's more like Disney Land without the talking mice.

Oh! wait, they have those too.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

30 minutes on the elliptical trainer, 30 minutes of weights. 

Going on 17 straight days of work.  4 more to go.  I need a vacation!!!

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 3.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

And I'm off,  12 weeks to St. George.  Sasha told me I should drop out and not run any races the rest of the year.  I value Sasha's advice a lot, and think he knows infinitely more about running that I do, But..... St. George just means to much to me right now.  I've been waiting to run it for 3 years now, it's the race I envision even when I'm training for something else.  I agree, with only 12 weeks to get in marathon shape I may end up with a disappointing performance and want to give up running forever, but that is a risk I'm willing to take.  So sorry Sasha, thanks for the advice but I'm goin' for it... 

Plan today was 10 miles with strides,  I wanted to just find a pace that I felt I could run 10 miles at, not to easy but not hurt myself.  I thought 7:00 avg seemed like a good goal.  Ran the Hudson River trail because I like the flat, it feels like I'm running a track and can judge my effort better than the Central Park hills.  I found 6:40 pace right away and liked how it felt so I decided to hold it there.  Couldn't have had more even splits if I were on a treadmill,  every mile I looked down was like 6:39, 6:41, 6:40.  It felt good and I was really enjoying it.  Stopped at the 5 mile turn around (Harlem Peir Park) for a quick drink, I drank to much though cause I ran the second 1/2 with a side cramp the whole way.  Didn't let it slow me down though.  Around mile 7 the 6:40 pace started to feel like work but I pushed through it and never let my self slow down.

Wow!  Just saw the HR.  Looks like I need to work on that.  Honestly, I think the heat and humidity have alot to do with it.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:51 6:51  155 173
 2 13:30 6:39  158 162
 3 19:58 6:28  166 169
 4 26:39 6:41  168 171
 5 33:21 6:42  169 173
 6 39:55 6:34  166 171
 7 46:32 6:37  171 175
 8 53:10 6:38  173 176
 9 59:50 6:40  172 174
 10 1:06:44 6:54  170 175
 Total 1:06:44 6:40  168 176

 My work is paying for my Wife to fly in to see me for the rest of the week.  I'm pretty excited about it cause I really need my laundry done, and frankly, I don't know how to do it.  JK, I went and did it last night. But I really am very excited for her to come, she has never been to Manhattan so I had the hotel upgrade me to a sweet suite on the 41st floor over looking the Hudson river.  I could have got the Time Square view, but those rooms are way to noisy at night.  Pretty excited to take her running in the park tomorrow.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 10.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Jul 11, 2011 at 08:11:27 from 24.10.191.18

nice start to your SG training. just be careful :)

From RAD on Mon, Jul 11, 2011 at 10:59:26 from 98.202.17.113

Oh those darn races and our pride gets us every time. Just be smart and listen to your body, you may not have the race of your life, but if it is that important to you it should happen. I did a 10 week training program for SGM last year after having a baby end of June and PR'd at SGM...so it can be done :) Of course, I had a lot less to prove on my PR at 3:45 than you do!

Sounds like your wife is in for a bit of spoiling this next week. Enjoy the time...I'm a little jealous! Never been to NY.

From Rob on Mon, Jul 11, 2011 at 11:05:22 from 67.217.136.66

Thanks Rachel, I really don't know what I have to "prove" but I would like to perform really well. I feel like I'm a much better runner than any of my marathons indicate. I just need to show up at the start line un-injured for once.

From Carina on Mon, Jul 11, 2011 at 11:40:26 from 204.15.86.83

I agree, nice start to your training, and just be smart! I am so jealous right now! New York is one fun place to be :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.500.000.000.0013.50

Wow!  It is hot and humid.  Worse than any day down in Miami last week.  Pretty suffocating and miserable.  I was up late last night walking around the City with Britt,  We walked up 5th Ave, through the Park and then back on Broadway.  Just so she could get her directions down since she is sightseeing alone today while I work.

I woke up at 4:50 so I could get an early start, out the door at 5:05, ran the 7 mile long inner park loop and then back to the hotel to pick up Britt.  7.5 in 55:22  7:22 avg pace.   Perfect timing Britt had just arrived in the hotel lobby, I told her it was very hot and she wasn't sure she could go the planned 6 miles.  We started out slow,  she kept wanting to speed up but I told her to pace herself so we could make the whole reservoir loop.  I tried to keep us at around 8:30 pace, she kept getting mad that we were getting passed by people so I'd go faster and start to drop her, so then I'd slow down.  I'm not exactly sure what she wanted, she's not a great partner runner, plus she listens to music the whole time so anytime I tried to talk to her she can't hear me anyway.  Still had a good time, we made it around the reservoir without stopping, 4 miles, then she decided she needed to walk a bit.  I went off ahead and ran a little over 1/2 a mile and then back to meet her to add a bit and keep from walking.  After I caught back to her she decided she was able to run the rest of the way back to the hotel.

Good, run.  I was very excited to share my Central Park route with Britt.  I'm not so sure she enjoyed it so much, it really was quite a miserably muggy day for running.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:22 7:22   
 2 14:48 7:26   
 3 21:59 7:11   
 4 29:10 7:11   
 5 36:37 7:27   
 6 43:46 7:09   
 7 51:13 7:27   
 8 59:33 8:20   
 9 1:08:13 8:40   
 10 1:16:50 8:37   
 11 1:25:07 8:17   
 12 1:32:53 7:46   
 13 1:41:12 8:19   
 13.5 1:44:44 8:55   
 Total1:45:07
 7:48   

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 13.50
Comments
From Carina on Tue, Jul 12, 2011 at 10:07:17 from 204.15.86.83

So funny, I think running with spouse can definitely be a challenge cause you're not afraid to really tell them how your feeling and what you're thinking of them. Ha ha!! Nice run in NY!!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Just a warning to anyone out there that may want to go running with my wife.  She is the worst running partner in the world.  She listens to her music the whole time, and runs like 20 yards behind me, when ever I slow down for her to catch up she just slows down more and gets mad at me for not running fast enough.

We ran down to the Hudson River trail, but mixed it up a bit and ran the other direction than my normal route,  (towards the Statue of Liberty) at the 2 mile mark I told Britt to run 5 more minutes and then turn around and I would catch up to her, well her music was so loud that she didn't hear me say turn around, so I ran out ahead to 3 1/2 so I could get 7 in and then turned around, 1/2 a mile back Britt was still coming towards me, when I got to her she said she was tired and needed to walk.  So we walked out to the peir to look at the Statue of Liberty then I realized it was already 7:00 and we were 3 miles from the hotel and I had to be to work at 7:30.  I left her my phone and sprinted back, made it just in time.  Now I'm not sure what the rush was, nothing is really happening at work but the anxiety was to much.

Not sure how I'm going to get my run in tomorrow, we have an 8:00am flight back to Billings Montana, then a 2 hour drive to Sheridan.  So ready to be done with work,  I've worked 3 weeks straight,  21 days without a day off.  That's to much.

Paris, Lauterbrunnen Switzerland, Gimmiwald Switzerland, Washington DC, San Francisco, Anaheim, Miami Beach, Bejing China, Central Park


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Walter on Wed, Jul 13, 2011 at 15:20:12 from 204.124.13.151

Ill bet your garmin has some cool running courses on it!

From allie on Wed, Jul 13, 2011 at 16:49:29 from 161.38.218.168

you've been working hard. have a safe trip back.

From Rob on Wed, Jul 13, 2011 at 18:24:49 from 72.255.57.47

Thanks Allie, I'm ready to come back.

Walter, I liked your comment, it made me think back to some of my favorite runs. I couldn't find all of them, I must not have had my watch on but I added some links above.

From Carina on Wed, Jul 13, 2011 at 19:40:11 from 204.15.86.83

Poor Brit, I hope she doesn't read this!! Although I do agree that it is hard to run with someone that listens to music the whole time and doesn't run "with" you. Hope you guys travel safely!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 Quick miles on the hotel treadmill before our flight home.  We are doing a local 5K tomorrow, I'm not expecting to much out of it.  I'm a wreck.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Race: Sneakers and Spurs 5K (3.1 Miles) 00:18:55, Place overall: 17, Place in age division: 2
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.003.100.000.0010.10

So I'm in Sheridan Wyoming, never heard of it have you?  This is the small hometown my wife grew up in, closest "big city" is Billings Montana.  This week in Sheridan is Rodeo Week, pretty much the biggest thing that ever happens here, shops close down, there is a huge parade and a 5K, and then to finish it off the NRCA rodeo series.  The other interesting thing about Sheridan is a lot of really rich people move here to get away from it all, the owner of Mars Candy lives here, the owner of Purina.  So there are some big sponsors for a little home town shin dig.

I ran this 5K with my wife 2 years ago and it was what you would expect from a small home town 5K in Wyoming, this year however M&M, Oakly sunglasses, and the same people that put together the Big Horn 100 that was 2 weeks ago sponsor the race.  So there were some good prizes and pretty much every High school cross country team from Wyoming was here.

I went for an easy 5 miler this morning and ran down and followed the route just to get it figured out, had stomach issues, and leg cramping issues during my morning run and knew today was not going to be pretty.

Anyway, I gotta go to the parade.  Long story short, I got a 5K PR, because I've never raced a 5K before, bad news I've ran faster 5K's 10 miles into a 18 mile training run before.  So not a great day.  Oh Well.

******************************************

Now, short story long.  This was really Britt's race,  she has been training for this the past month.  She wanted to do good in front of her old High School friends, when I told her I wasn't feeling very good this morning she told me to just run with her instead.  I told her I would go out fast and then if I fell apart I'd wait for her, well, I did fall apart but I didn't wait for her, once you're in race mode you just kind of have to go.  I lined up front with about 30 high school kids, the first 500M is down main street slightly downhill and very fast.  I told myself to not try and go out with the track kids, but once the gun...s went off I couldn't help but go fast,  I looked down and saw that we were at sub 5:00 pace.  I thought Oh No!  This is bad, I slowed down a little but was still going way to fast, at the 1/2 mile mark I realized I was about ready to loose my banana all over the road and had to slow way down.  Thought about waiting for Britt at that point but decided to just try and find my comfort pace, I never did, I felt sick the entire race, at mile 2 the first place girl passed me, I got behind her and ran with her the rest of the way.  I thought I didn't want to get chicked but I'd wait until the final sprint down main street to pass her.  Well turns out she had a faster kick than me and beat me by about 2 seconds.  I don't think she even knew she was competing with anyone :)  I finished and turned around and started running back the course to find Britt, I only had to go 500M and she was turning the corner onto main street.  I was really surprised to find her that quick.  I paced her in, she was looking really strong and having a great time.  I split off right before the finish line and some guys came up and tried to push me back onto the road, they said "you're almost there, you can do it"  That was my favorite part of the day, I was like 10 feet from the finish and they thought I'd just given up.

This is probably one of the funnest, most well organized 5K's ever, 3.1 miles on the dot according to my watch, and about 10,000 people cheering you on coming down the final stretch.  Granted, they are all there for the parade not the race but still very fun.  

Britt was trying for a sub 24:00 and ended up at 23:35, a 4 minute PR for her, so awesome job to her, soon she will be the runner in the family.  I really wish I could have been feeling better, but I really wasn't expecting much, too much work, too much travel, and too much fatigue the last few weeks.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 5.10Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 5.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Jul 15, 2011 at 16:48:39 from 24.10.191.18

sounds like an awesome race. i'd say that's a pretty solid 5k time considering the past couple of months. how does everything feel now?

congrats to britt on her big PR. that's great!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.000.000.000.0015.00

Great bonding moment with my 9 year old this morning, last night I was trying to figure out how to get my long run in today.  There is a country road "Big Goose Rd" that goes from Sheridan out to the Big Horn mountains that is pretty flat and runs by a stream the whole way.  I was a little worried about where to get water if needed so I came up with the great idea to have my 9 year old ride bike support.  I was about to drive out to Walmart and buy a cheap bike for him when we looked over and realized he was probably big enough to ride Grandmas bike with the seat all the way down, tested it out and sure enough he fit.  Lucky he is a tall 9 year old. 

So this morning I woke Bradin up at 5:00am (what a trooper) and off we went.  He is a great running partner, talks the whole time, askes me everything about what a professional bike rider would do in this situation. :)  The time just flew by,  we went pretty slow going out,  Averaging about 7:45 min/mil.  Plan was 17 miles today but we were behind schedule so I decided to cut it short and turn around at 7.5.  Coming back we had the sun in our face, but it was much faster,  we picked up the pace about 1 min/mile, if I would have known the return was so much faster I would have gone the extra 2 miles.

Great run with Bradin, on an absolutely perfect morning.  15 miles in 1:51:03  7:24 avg.

Now off to get some father in law bonding.  He is taking me to the lake to go Kyaking.  Should be fun.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.505.000.000.0011.50

Run out Big Goose with Bradin again this morning.  Slow going out and then I tried to pick it up a bit coming back.  I've really gotten slow, I need to figure out where my speed went. 

5 miles of a somewhat tempo run.  Now off to go camping in Red Lodge Montana.

11.5 in 1:23:15  7:14 avg.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 11.50
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Jul 18, 2011 at 10:05:15 from 204.15.86.83

That doesn't sound slow to me!

From Rob on Mon, Jul 18, 2011 at 10:22:18 from 166.137.137.43

I guess sometimes it's more about how you feel than the actual speed.

From allie on Mon, Jul 18, 2011 at 21:33:15 from 24.10.191.18

i'm feeling the same way right now. i just don't feel smooth anymore when i run. i feel awkward and sloppy.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

12 miles, 6 out and back along the main highway into Red Lodge Montana, pretty hot here, I thought we were suppose to be in the mountains but it was 70 degrees at 5:30 am. 

I was running along and the sun came out and I wished I would have brought sunglasses with me.  Not more than a minute after thinking that I looked down and there was a brand new pair of sun glasses laying on the side of the road.  I think tomorrow I'll wish for a big bag of money.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

I've decided that I'm not recovering properly from my 12 mile runs so this morning I went out planning to take it really easy. Started running down the main highway away from Redlodge.  After about 1 mile I decided I really didn't like running down the side of the highway and wanted to find a new route, right then I saw a dirt road with a sign that said 3 miles "that way" to some ranch.. I thought perfect that will give me a total of 8 out and back so I followed that road.  Turned out to be an excellent choice, the most absolutely perfect secluded dirt road you could imagine, open fields, a beautiful sunrise and perfect temperatures.  It actually reminded me of running in Switzerland,  very, very slow pace but I really enjoyed every minute of my run.

8 mile in 1:08  ~8:30 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.008.50

We drove from Redlodge Montana down to Britt's Grandma's house in Cowley Wyoming yesterday.  Spent the day visiting Grandparents, fun fun..  We (Britt) wanted to get an early start out of town this morning so we could get back home.  I wanted to do 10 miles this morning but for some reason it didn't get light until about 5:10 and I really didn't know where I was going and didn't want to run in the dark.  I just started running out some dirt road, almost all the roads in Cowley are dirt, had no idea where the road went, how far it went but it was a great road, kind of rolling hills the whole way, on a nicely graded dirt road.  Ran towards the sunrise for 30 minutes which came to 4.25 miles then turned around and went back for a total of 8.5.  Still pretty easy pace today but not as slow as yesterday, tomorrow I think I'm going to do some old fashion treadmill running to see if I'm as out of shape as I think I am or if the unfamiliar running conditions I've been running the past 3 weeks have something to do with it.

When I got back I asked Britt's Uncle how far that road went, he told me it would have taken me all the way to Billings.  So like 50 miles, humm, Wyoming has some great long run locations.  I can't find anything like that around here, long straight rollers with absolutely 0 cars for 50 miles, maybe I need to move to Wyoming.

Glad to be home, I haven't slept in my own bed in 4 weeks.

8.5 miles in 1:03  7:27 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.003.001.000.0010.00

The past 4 weeks I have pretty much been living the runners dream, running on the beach in Miami, around Central Park and along the Hudson River in New York and then down endless country dirt roads in Montana.  Yet somehow getting on the ol' front row 3rd treadmill from the right at Lifetime this morning was really quite enjoyable,  I have literally put thousands of miles on that one treadmill and somehow when I get on it my body just knows it's time to get down to business and run.  No distractions, no cars, no people in the way, it's all about the numbers.

Very pleased with my workout this morning, I just wanted to do my bread and butter run, 10 mile progressive run and evaluate where my fitness was.  Since I've pretty much ran a completely different route and terrain the last month I never really had a good base to go off of and evaluate my fitness.  Felt good the entire run, heart rate never did get away from me and my legs held it together pretty good.   I think my cardio fitness is in decent shape, I just need to start getting some longer runs in and get my legs back.  Speed seemed OK,  I'm sure that is something that will gradually just come back with the miles.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:25 7:25  135 166
 2 14:32 7:07  139 142
 3 21:29 6:57  143 146
 4 28:18 6:49  147 149
 5 34:58 6:40  150 151
 6 41:28 6:30  153 155
 7 47:50 6:22  155 157
 8 54:05 6:15  155 157
 9 59:51 5:46  159 164
 10 1:06:49 6:58  148 154
 Total1:06:54
 6:39  148 164

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Jul 22, 2011 at 10:11:20 from 204.15.86.83

I guess running is kinda like everything else and vacation. I love going, but it's always so nice to come home to the familiar!

From Steve on Fri, Jul 22, 2011 at 10:13:26 from 76.27.108.183

You and I have been running nearly identical cities the last while..

From Rob on Fri, Jul 22, 2011 at 10:20:56 from 204.15.86.95

Yep Carina. Very nice to be home.

Steve I saw that you were in New York around the same time as me. We should try and meet up sometime, My next trips (that I know of) will be Las Vegas at the end of August and then San Francisco first of September.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

Very happy with today's run.  Met Ryan at Maverik, first time we've ran together in 7 weeks.  I really needed that, we seem to be able to push each other at exactly the right times, and seem to be at the same level all the time.  He then turns around and kicks my butt at every race though, so that must mean he's just taking it easy on me on our training runs.

I was thinking we'd be doing well just to average 7:30 pace for the 18 miles today, so was really happy with how well I held up for my first long run in months. Hip felt good, legs are a bit sore but that's to be expected after an 18 miler.  We started out slower and progressively sped up over the entire run.  Probably averaged under 7:00 pace for the last 6.

18 miles in 2:09:21  7:11 avg pace.

68 miles for the week, first time I've been on the first mileage board page in a long long time.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 18.00
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Jul 23, 2011 at 12:09:50 from 204.15.86.83

Nice long run!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

My poor dog Nellie has been at Grandma's for the past 3 weeks and hasn't been able to get out for a walk so this morning I decided to take advantage of a perfect morning and take her for a quick little run.  4 mile loop around the dirt roads of Traverse Mountain, very slow 9:00 avg pace.  Legs are pretty sore from yesterdays run.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.001.004.000.0010.00

Ouch!  I'm going to feel that tomorrow.  I wanted to accomplish a couple of things this morning.  Find out what my downhill, with a tailwind pace should be for next weekend, and beat my legs up a little bit with time to recover.  I definately accomplished the beat my legs up part.  Not sure I know what pace I can run downhill for 13 miles though.  4 miles at that pace about killed me.  I would like to go out at 5:30 - 5:45 just to give myself a chance for a 1:15 if I'm feeling good but really I'm thinking I'll be pretty lucky to be 1:18.

Started from my work and ran up Big Cottonwood canyon  5 miles, took it kind of easy  going up, partially on purpose, partially cause it was really hard, turned around at 5 and pounded back down.  The top had some very steep sections where I hit sub 5:00 pace a couple of times but I felt really un-stable and thought I was going to fall on my face so I had to slow down a bit.  I've decided I'm 10 - 15 lbs top heavy, my legs could handle the pressure much easier if I was about 15 lbs lighter I'm sure.

Good workout, I might go for a bike ride tomorrow instead of run.  We''ll see how I feel later tonight.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 8:10 8:10   
 2 16:53 8:43   
 3 25:34 8:41   
 4 34:25 8:51   
 5 43:46 9:21   
 6 49:03 5:17   
 7 54:35 5:32   
 8 1:00:11 5:36   
 9 1:05:54 5:43   
10 1:12:28 6:34   
Total 1:12:20 7:14   

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

During my injury recovery I really learned to love cycling again, I used to ride bikes quite a bit until I had a very bad wreck in LoToJa and quit riding completely.  I turned down a ride last Saturday cause I had an 18 miler planned with Ryan, this morning I had a 14 on the schedule but really wanted to ride my bike.  I had quite the internal argument with myself last night about weather I should ride or run.  I finally realized the the fact I was having to argue with myself over something like that meant that I have serious issues.  The only reason I was even considering running is so I could put miles on the mileage board.  So this morning I went for a nice bike ride by myself.

Drove to work and then headed up to Wasatch Blvd, I was going to just make a big loop but started riding up Little Cottonwood canyon and decided it would be cooler, less traffic and much prettier to ride up to Snowbird.  It was a very difficult climb, there were times where I thought to myself I could be running up this hill faster than this, but it was very enjoyable, kept my HR up for at least a solid hour.  This ride was worth at least a 14 mile run.  Legs are a bit jelloy now, I may go out for a short lunch time run just to get the legs moving.

22.5 miles in 1:40

*****************************************

Afternoon run, for some reason I thought a nice "easy" 6 miler for lunch sounded like a great idea.  Asked Ryan what his running plans were and he needed 6 so that sounded perfect.  I convinced him to go run outside instead of the Gym,  we headed out from the office under I215 to the CottonBottom, thought about stopping for Garlic Burgers and then headed down Highland drive, ran out 3 miles, thought I was going to die of heat exhaustion, begged some lady for some water and then headed back.  Net incline all the way back and brutally hot.  A mix between my downhill sprint yesterday,  my Snowbird hill climb bike ride this morning, and the heat was just to much.  Time to take it easy for a couple of days. 


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00Bike Miles: 22.50
Comments
From Carina on Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 12:06:09 from 204.15.86.83

Good choice after your killer run yesterday for sure!!

From Fritz on Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 15:58:51 from 65.116.116.6

I face the same internal struggle between cycling and running. I love cycling but there is no way I can get the miles in that I need to (or think I need to) if I do too much of it....maybe I should enter duathlons or become a better swimmer and be a triathlete again. decisions, decisions

From Rob on Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 17:39:53 from 206.71.84.68

Yeah Fritz, depending on how St. George goes for me this year I am seriously considering training for St. George Iron Man next year. I love biking, I love swimming, I like running but it seems to not agree with me all of the time.

Are you running Timp 1/2 on Saturday? I saw it on your schedule but didn't know since you just ran Des News.

From allie on Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 20:04:21 from 24.10.191.18

nice bike/run combo today. timp 1/2 for you?

From Rob on Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 20:19:40 from 204.15.86.95

Yeah, I'm doing Timp 1/2. I'm going to tie a rope around Ryan and let him drag me down the mountain.

From Fritz on Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 20:39:06 from 65.116.116.6

Not unless I can ride my bike. I am afraid to leave work because I might fall down getting to my car.

From Rob on Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 21:08:26 from 166.205.9.246

Well there goes my second option of tieing a rope around you. I was wondering how you were going to do it that soon after Des News. Good to hear you're part human.

From RAD on Wed, Jul 27, 2011 at 20:40:00 from 76.27.16.189

I'm glad you think the same thing I do when I ride "I swear I can run faster than this!!" Makes me feel a little more normal and not like such a wimp!

I can't believe this day for you. A Snowbird bike climb and a run down to Highland Dr and back...those are some serious hills! Nice work!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 easy recovery miles on the treadmill on some still sore legs.   Rolled out, then stretched with weights, stretched in the hot tub, stretched in the pool.  I'm about 2 inches taller now but feel really good.

8 miles in 57:25 7:10 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

4 miles on the treadmill while waiting for the light, ran 5 X strides in the last mile at < 5:00 pace.  Talked to Riverton Paul for about 10 minutes, he is still alive and looks great.

4 miles in 29:10, 7:17 avg pace

Went out to the JRP trail and ran 3 slow miles out and back for a total of 6.  Very nice morning, cool temps.  I hope it's this nice and cool Saturday morning.

6 miles in 47:45,  ~8:00 avg pace

Legs were a little more stiff than I'd like them to be 2 days before a race, I'll try swimming tomorrow.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From allie on Thu, Jul 28, 2011 at 19:48:17 from 161.38.218.168

i think we will have some decent temps on saturday morning. glad to hear RP is alive and well.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

2 weeks ago on my flight coming home from New York I helped a lady lift her bag into the over head bin, doing so I pulled a neck muscle, you know the one, where you can't move your head back and forth quite right for a couple of days.  Well for some reason it decided to start acting up again last night from giving my 4 year old a shoulder ride, so I had a terrible nights sleep trying to find a comfortable position for my head.  I was quite happy when it was finally time to wake up this morning.  The airlines should make a rule that if you can lift your own bag into the overhead bin you need to check it.

Plan was to swim, so I swam, easy 1600 meters.  Swimming unlike biking and running is something you forget how to do if you haven't done it for a while,  it took me about 6 laps before I got the rhythm right.

Good news, my legs feel totally sore free, probably the best my legs have ever felt the day before a race,  hopefully my neck problem isn't an issue, luckily I don't run on my neck.  I've also had stomach problems lately when I try to run fast, not sure why but the acid really builds up and makes me sick.  I'll just have to watch what I eat really closely today.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Jul 29, 2011 at 18:33:32 from 24.10.191.18

"luckily i don't run on my neck."

ha! great line...

i am glad your legs are feeling good. i was reading through the AF canyon race reports and it appears this course is even faster than i thought. you'll be rockin and rollin on it tomorrow. see you in the morning.

From Rob on Fri, Jul 29, 2011 at 18:54:40 from 204.15.86.95

Yeah, I PM'd Walter for some advice. He kind of got me scared how steep it is. Should be fun though, lots of PR's. Maybe faster than Hobble Creek.

Race: Timpanogos Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) 01:16:51, Place overall: 5, Place in age division: 3
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.005.108.000.0013.10

I’ve spent some time thinking about how I feel about this race and how I performed and have come to the conclusion that I’m thrilled with how I did.  My goal was a 1:15 but that was a completely arbitrary number that I pulled out of the air and I really had nothing to back up being able to do that.  Second goal was a PR, so hey that’s always nice to meet some goal, beat my ½ Marathon PR by almost 1 minute.

 

Slept OK last night, better than staying in a hotel somewhere with the entire family in the room, so having the race 10 miles up the road from my house was very nice.   Woke up at 3:00 am got ready, drove to Ryan Jonson’s house to meet him at 4:00, but I showed up 30 minutes early,  I Sat in his front yard stretching and jogging up and down the street for 30 minutes while I waited.

 

We drove to the buses got on what must have been an early bus cause it was the nice LaBus with nice seats,  The start area was kind of a mess, didn’t seem big enough for everyone there, I only got one shot at the Porta Potty, that worried me a little bit but I actually ended up OK.

 

The race was suppose to start promptly at 5:40 am, 5:40 came along and they announced that we still were waiting on a few busses.  Lot’s of grumbles from the crowd, I actually don’t mind waiting around a bit, plus it was still pretty dark at 5:40 so I think the road could have been dangerous in the dark, the only thing I was upset about was that I didn’t go to the bathroom one last time while waiting, but when your lined up on the front row you don’t really want to leave.

 

Lined up with Ryan.   The only “fast” person that anyone really recognized was Justin Park (I think that’s his name, he ended up winning), the gun went off about 6:00 am I would guess, I didn’t have my watch set to time.  I figured from the race report of the American Fork ½ that there would be people taking off at sub 5:00 pace but everyone was going pretty slow, I know cause I was in second position at about ¼ mile.  There were 6 of us in the lead group and everyone was very chatty, that bothered me cause I was thinking how hard it was to even breath and these guys were chatting about the weather.  Justin and another guy finally split away and took the lead, Ryan and 2 other guys started a little group of 3, and I created my own group of 1 about 50 yards behind them.

 

I was actually hitting my splits right around how I had thought I should,  5:30 – 5:40 pace,  kept questioning if that was the right pace, didn’t really know if I should go faster and try to catch up to Ryan, or go slower and save myself a little bit.  But all and all I felt OK, breathing was a little heavy but I was hanging in there.  I was really enjoying the canyon but kept telling myself it was going to get bad out of the canyon, at around mile 7 I passed one of the guys from the pack of 3, we chatted some, kept alternating position but eventually he fell back.  That gave me a little bit of confidence to know that I had actually passed someone,  this put me in 5th overall, I seriously questioned being able to hold that position for 5 more miles but kept pushing through.  Once I reached the bottom of the canyon I could tell the heat would be an issue.  Heat over all other things is my nemesis, every race I’ve every done I just completely crash as soon as the sun comes up.  I’m not sure what I need to do to get over that, I’ve struggled with heat exhaustion as long as I can remember, whether it’s riding bikes, running or what ever.  Anyway, it got hot, and humid.  Then I got to the trail by the Golf course, I had no idea there were up hills on this course, I should have rode it on my bike or something.  That first hill, I seriously thought I was going to collapse, my calf started to tighten up and I realized then that 1:15 wasn’t going to happen even though I was still on pace to do so.

 

I switched from race mode to survival mode at around 8.5,  I was planning on this happening around the 10 mile mark but I was still happy I pushed through as hard as I did for that long.  I don’t remember a whole lot threw here, I passed a few of the full Marathon people, and passed 1 person that I thought was maybe one of the guys ahead of me but I couldn’t remember.  At 11.5 I got passed by someone, I tried to keep up but he had kicked into a different gear, and then at 12 a friend of his met him and paced him the rest of the way, I didn’t have a chance.

 

Turned the corner at 13 feeling pretty dead, but my wife tells me I always look slow coming down the home stretch so I decided to speed up and bit and put on a show for the kids, ran all the way across the street to high five my kids (they love that) and then I was done.

 

So the only thing I’m really mad about this race about is that somehow they really jacked up the timing, Ryan and I weren’t even on the printed result sheet so we went and complained, They had manually written my number down in 5th place but didn’t have Ryan at all (he finished 3rd overall at 1:13:59)  eventually they said they found both of our names in the computer with chip times (1:16:51 for me) but they weren’t on the official results sheet.  They tried to give Ryan’s 3rd place prize away to someone else, but he went and complained and they fixed it, they did end up giving my age group plaque to someone else and told me they would make me a new one and send it to me.  I’m not sure how they made such a mess of it,  I only new 3 people, Me, Ryan, and Allie and somehow all of our results got messed up.  Allie took 3rd overall but they tried to give it to someone else.  I think she was angry and left before all that anyway.

 

All and all, a good race, not quite as “easy” as I had imagined, I wish I would have ran the last 7 miles earlier cause I wasn’t expecting all those hills and turns at all.  Based on the fact I have been out with a stress fracture all summer and only been running for 4 weeks I’m very pleased with the result.  Who would have thought I could come back and get a PR that soon after recovering from a stress fracture.  Pretty sure I have a 1:15 in me but I don’t have any other races set until St. George Marathon due to work conflicts with all the other races coming up.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 5:26 5:26   
 2 11:09 5:43   
 3 17:00 5:51   
 4 22:44 5:44   
 5 28:08 5:24   
 6 33:33 5:25   
 7 39:04 5:31   
 8 44:47 5:43   
 9 51:08 6:21   
 10 57:26 6:18   
 11 1:03:37 6:11   
 12 1:10:10 6:33   
 13 1:16:24 6:14   
 13.1 1:16:52 5:28   
 Total 1:16:52 5:53   
 

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 13.10
Comments
From RivertonPaul on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 15:38:25 from 63.228.197.251

Rob, that is great considering how seriously you have been injured. I hope that this is a nice confidence booster in your staying healthy (I know it is tough for you to hold back in your workouts) in your build up to SGM.

From Teena Marie on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 15:51:10 from 67.2.79.18

WaHoo!!! This is GREAT news!!! So happy for you!!! :)

My favorite parts:

"I created my own group of 1 about 50 yards behind ... "

" ... my wife tells me I always look slow coming down the home stretch so I decided to speed up and bit and put on a show for the kids ...

AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME!

Congratulations. :)

From Kelli on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 16:47:20 from 71.219.99.3

WOW, quite the report! Nice job on the race and I love that you sprinted it in for the kids, very cool!!!

I stayed for the awards and I was so confused because I knew Allie had been 3rd and they did not call her name. I SAW her cross the finish line, but started thinking maybe I had been delirious! I wonder what happened with the results? They had ZERO results for the marathon, couldn't even find them. We all (well, about half of us) hung around waiting, but nothing. We did not even get a mention in the awards ceremony, not a one of us. Kind of sad.

I am rambling, sorry, BUT I have the same issue with heat and I have since I was a kid. I get heat stroke easily (which is nice in a way because it has always gotten me out of yard work.) I have read up on it a lot to try to figure out how to not faint, get nauseous, etc but basically I have learned that some people will just always struggle. Maybe we are two of those people. ;o)

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 17:19:08 from 98.202.141.17

Congratulations on the fine time. You're back!

From Carina on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 17:23:45 from 204.15.86.83

Great race Rob, You totally rocked. It was fun to see you finish so strong, I looked up and was like hey, there's Rob!!!

From RAD on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 17:33:51 from 76.27.16.189

Excellent race Rob! I guess your TM at the gym doesn't need me going so slow anymore...I'll give it back :)

What a wonderful way to PR just coming back from the SF. Shows what an amazing all around athlete you are! Sorry about the awards - sounds a little hookey to me!

good luck in the remaining weeks till SGM!!!

From allie on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 17:37:32 from 24.10.191.18

nice work, rob. i am happy the race went well for you today and that you are back at it again!

i had no idea there was a mishap with the timing. the only reason i left early was because i wanted to take a nap :)

i'm sure they will get it sorted out eventually...

From Rob on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 17:38:39 from 204.15.86.95

Paul- thanks for coming back from the dead to respond to my report :) I'm hoping if I get anything out of my injury it's how to control myself better.

Teena Marie- I'm glad I could make someone smile.

Kelli- That really sucks about the Marathoners. I didn't think about it until you mentioned they didn't even say anything about it. Lame.

Rob- Planning on going for that 1:15 in Just Cuz. Will you be there with me?

Carina- I'm really glad I got to see you and your infamous dance. You really love a good race don't you? Thanks for cheering for me.

From Rob on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 17:42:18 from 204.15.86.95

Hey Rad and Allie, You must have responded while I was in the middle of typing. I didn't not respond to you on purpose.

RAD, You can use my treadmill anytime you want.

From Steve Piccolo on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 17:43:41 from 67.2.46.110

Great race! Glad I didn't stick around long after.

From Walter on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 19:34:27 from 24.2.69.110

Great Job Rob! Just like I told you! I think mile 2-3 has a flat spot there because I was just under 5 my first mile and then slowed to 5:30 for 2 miles then got several 4:50's in a row. That is such a cool course! Great job!

From Rob on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 23:32:43 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks Walter, Sorry I forgot to mention that I got my race strategy from you. Thanks for the advice, I wish you would have warned me about the last 7 miles. But then again maybe it was good you didn't

From Walter on Sat, Jul 30, 2011 at 23:42:15 from 24.2.69.110

I didn't really give you race strategy. I just told you how I ran It and you did it the same! You're an animal!

From Dragonvulture on Mon, Aug 01, 2011 at 01:18:01 from 67.41.183.211

Great Race! Nice to have someone to chase down for miles. I'm sure after you have some more time back from your injury 1:15 will be yours.

From Smooth on Mon, Aug 01, 2011 at 19:33:56 from 67.2.116.101

So HAPPY for your PR after your sf! GREAT performance and confidence builder for SGM!!!

It was so cool to watch you fly by in the canyon!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Ouch!!

Comments
From Carina on Sun, Jul 31, 2011 at 14:30:53 from 204.15.86.83

I feel your pain!! That race is brutal!!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I was planning on swimming this morning but when I got there the lap pool was closed for cleaning.  They had the splash pool open and it has lanes but that pool is heated and I feel like I'm swimming in a swamp, so I changed back into workout clothes and went upstairs.

5 miles on the elliptical, and then I limped around the gym for 45 minutes doing various machines.

Saturdays race really has me perplexed,  pretty much proves the fact that I have no idea what the heck I'm doing.  I've been in much, much better shape before,  over the last 3 weeks of "official" marathon training I haven't hit any of my key workouts, I had a terrible 5K just a week earlier yet somehow I went and ran a PR,  and I didn't even feel especially great for this race, dealt with stomach cramps the first 4 miles and then had a bit of a crash the last 3.  So how is it that I ended up running the fastest average pace I've ever ran in a race before?  Was the course really that much faster?  Is it simply because I wasn't able to run all summer so my body was better rested?  Or did just having some crazy number like run a 1:15 in my mind give me enough motivation to run faster than I thought was possible?

I did run a bit smarter than other races,  I look at my previous 2 half marathons and I went off the line at a dead sprint close to 5:00/mile, this time I really tried to keep my pace at a level closer to where my average needed to be, even with the huge hill in the first mile.  I don't really have a large pool of races to go off of, so setting PR's isn't a big surprise, if I ran a race every month I'm sure I'd have a much better idea of what I'm capable of but I've really only had 3 or 4 races that I can even compare too.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 5.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Aug 01, 2011 at 18:27:28 from 24.10.191.18

i'm perplexed by saturday's race as well -- i think it's a combination of everything you mentioned.

i'm also extremely sore -- more sore than i have been after some marathons. it's kind of ridiculous. i assume the elliptical and limping around means you are sore too?

From Rob on Mon, Aug 01, 2011 at 19:15:18 from 166.205.9.157

Yeah Allie, I'm like marathon sore but figured it was cause I haven't raced since January.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

Still a bit sore, but I stretched out and iced last night so this morning I gave myself the OK to go run.  I can't afford to take too much time off.

6 miles on the treadmill waiting for light,  then I went and did 6 really slow relaxing miles on the JRP.  Very nice morning, saw a family of Racoons and a Fox.  Felt like I was in a Disney film.

6 miles in 42:15 7:02 avg pace

6 miles in 49:41 8:17 avg pace

*****************************************************

Decided if I'm going to get over my phobia of running in the sun I need to go run in the sun, which means more lunch time runs while I'm in town.  Wasn't to hot but plenty warm, I wouldn't want to race in it for sure.  Ran from my office up Big Cottonwood canyon until I hit 3 miles and then turned around.  The coming down really hurt.

6 miles in 49:13 8:12 avg pace

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 6.00Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Chad Robinson on Tue, Aug 02, 2011 at 16:26:22 from 67.136.62.186

Nice job on keeping a slow pace. I'm sure your body will thank you.

From Carina on Tue, Aug 02, 2011 at 16:27:55 from 204.15.86.83

18 miles on a Tuesday!! You're crazy!

Here's that link I was telling you about.

http://tosh.comedycentral.com/video-clips/the--150-000-tosh-0-marathon

From Rob on Tue, Aug 02, 2011 at 16:37:18 from 206.71.84.68

Chad, my body isn't thanking me right now :)

Carina, I actually just got threw watching it, pretty funny.

Funny story, that Kenyan that won "Jonathan Ndambuki" holds the course record for the Des News Marathon. How do I know this? Last year when I finished running Des News Sasha came up and asked me if I could give him a ride back to the house he was staying. So I actually drove with him last year. Pretty cool huh?

From allie on Tue, Aug 02, 2011 at 21:23:45 from 24.10.191.18

3 runs! you're a crazy man, rob, but nice job. glad the soreness is manageable so that you can get back to running again -- i feel the same way about taking time off -- i can't afford it and yet i have subjected myself to another low mileage week. dang it!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Can someone please remind me what the end goal is???

1600 meter swim at the gym while waiting for the light, then 7 slow miles on the JRP, nice morning, a little warmer than yesterday but still pleasant.

7 miles in 57:58 8:17 avg pace

******************************************

I had every intention of running a short lunch run today, but when lunch time came around I just felt Blah! and didn't think running would accomplish much of anything, so I went to the shoe store and looked at new running shoes.  There are about 3 different ones I would love to try but can't afford $100 a pop.  

Swim Miles: 0.50Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Comments
From jtshad on Wed, Aug 03, 2011 at 15:30:04 from 204.134.132.225

I know that feeling. Don't worry about it, just move on to the rest of your day.

From allie on Wed, Aug 03, 2011 at 15:47:29 from 161.38.218.168

the end goal is...? that's an excellent question.

i agree with jeff -- don't worry too much about the lunch run. no harm in giving your body some rest if it's asking for it.

From Rob on Wed, Aug 03, 2011 at 15:56:50 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks guys, I have a pretty big mileage day tomorrow. I figured it would be better to be fresh for that than beat myself up today.

Have you recovered from Saturday Allie? I think I'm going to start doing downhill sprints once a week just so I don't have to go through that again.

From allie on Wed, Aug 03, 2011 at 15:58:52 from 161.38.218.168

i have been able to run the past two days, but it has been painfully slow. i'm still sore. i'm seriously slogging through 9:00 miles. i'm not sure the extreme downhill is worth it...:)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.005.000.000.0020.00

Progressive HR test run today, ran 9 miles on the treadmill starting at 7:00 pace and incrementing up every mile.   Just wanted to get an idea of where my fitness is based on HR from back when I feel like I was in my best shape, which I think was early March right before my stress fracture.  After 9 miles I realized I was anywhere between 5 and 10 bpm higher per given pace than I was back then and stopped.  Went outside and ran a slow 6 miles on the river trail to cool down.

Found an old similar workout from March to compare HR.

Distance Time
 Avg Pace
March Avg HR
Today Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:57 6:57 135 137 150
 2 13:40 6:43 144 152 154
 3 20:15 6:35 149 155 158
 4 26:41 6:26 152 160 163
 5 33:00 6:19 154 165 168
 6 39:13 6:13 156 169 170
 7 45:26 6:13 157 170 172
 8 51:30 6:04 159 172 174
 9 57:19 5:49 159 173 176
 Total57:25
 6:21152
 161 176

 

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:53 7:53  152 157
 2 15:34 7:41  155 157
 3 23:17 7:43  154 156
 4 30:43 7:26  152 158
 5 38:26 7:43  156 158
 6 46:22 7:56  155 157
 Total46:22
 7:46  154 158

 *****************************************************

I need to find a new lunch time route, running up Big Cottonwood canyon in the middle of the day in August isn't really a "recovery" run.

5 miles in 39:20 7:52 avg pace.

I had to come back and add one more line from my fancy new Quad Core Macbook Pro.  It's pretty sweet.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Aug 04, 2011 at 13:11:35 from 204.15.86.83

It looks like you're doing pretty good just coming back from an injury! I stopped using the HR monitor, it just freaked me out.

From allie on Thu, Aug 04, 2011 at 23:17:07 from 24.10.191.18

quad core macbook pro...cool.

nice data -- it's always nice to have a comparison.

i want to personally thank you for leaking that horrible monster photo of me to the FRB community. yes, i made that face on purpose, but i didn't think anyone but me would ever see it. haha. it's so terrible. :)

From Rob on Fri, Aug 05, 2011 at 00:05:35 from 204.15.86.95

Allie, your picture was awesome. Mine is worse and I didnt even try to make a scary face.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

When I woke up this morning I noticed a very dull pain in my hip, doesn't hurt or alter my mobility at all but the fact that I can feel it at all bothers me.  I thought about swimming but then decided to just do an easy run and see how things went,  it didn't hurt at all running so I kept it up but cut the run a bit short.  Ran 8 X .1mile strides the final 2 miles at 12.1,12.2, 12.3......mph and then finished with stretching in the pool and hot tub.  I feel really good and refreshed right now.  Hopefully the hip thing isn't anything bad.

8 miles in 59:30 7:30 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Aug 05, 2011 at 10:24:40 from 204.15.86.83

Be careful with the hip! Nice run!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

After last weeks race I wanted to experience the Sogonapmit marathon,  I met Ryan at his house this morning and we drove to a church about 3 miles from the base of American Fork Canyon, ran up the canyon until we hit 9 miles and turned around.  Very nice cool morning, I can definately see why everyone liked that marathon so much, I actually enjoyed the run up the canyon more than coming back down.

18 miles in 2:16:00  ~ 7:34 avg pace   Average going up was probably around 8:30 pace, 6:30 coming down.

Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 18.00
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Aug 06, 2011 at 11:08:04 from 204.15.86.83

That actually sounds fun. How was running in the canyon? There doesn't seem to be much shoulder and the road is so narrow.

From Rob on Sat, Aug 06, 2011 at 12:53:57 from 204.15.86.95

Coming down the canyon was a bit of an issue, most of the cars were polite and got way over but some, not so much. The shoulder has a pretty big slant to it too, so it was kind of hard to run. Like I said the run up was much more plesent than the run down.

From allie on Sun, Aug 07, 2011 at 01:10:08 from 24.10.191.18

very nice, rob.

From Smooth on Sun, Aug 07, 2011 at 01:44:05 from 67.2.98.112

NICE run Rob! I'd run up and down AF Canyon more if weren't for the scary traffic and had to run on the slanted narrow shoulder. it gets scary in the early morning and the rising sun blinds the drivers! One time I almost got run off to the river by some cyclists and other times got rude honking from passing motorists.

glad you had a fun and safe run! :)

From Rob on Sun, Aug 07, 2011 at 16:51:33 from 166.205.10.143

I think next time we do that route we'll try it on a weekday when it's not so busy with crazy campers.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

6 miles on the treadmill with 8 X .1 mile strides at 13.1,13.2,13.3...... mph to finish of the treadmill portion.  Then 6 miles on the JRP.  Maybe a lunch run, maybe not...

6 miles in 40:38 6:46 avg pace

6 miles in 47:12 7:52 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From RAD on Mon, Aug 08, 2011 at 17:56:54 from 76.27.16.189

I visited your TM this morning for a much slower run :) Glad you're keeping it primed so it doesn't break down on my shuffle miles!

Nice job Rob! Looks like you're coming back quite well.

From Rob on Mon, Aug 08, 2011 at 18:00:27 from 206.71.84.68

I'm sure the treadmill appreciates someone who weighs much less than me not pounding it to death. I'm surprised it still works.

Did you see LT is closed next week? I don't know what I'm going to do..

From allie on Mon, Aug 08, 2011 at 18:49:48 from 24.10.191.18

the doubles are looking good!

From Rob on Tue, Aug 09, 2011 at 12:25:59 from 206.71.84.68

Allie, those aren't suppose to be doubles, It's basically one long run but 1/2 of it I stay in one place and the other 1/2 I go somewhere and then end up back in the same place.

Seems like a waste to go 12 miles and not go anywhere doesn't it?

From allie on Tue, Aug 09, 2011 at 12:32:07 from 161.38.218.168

oh, i see. i thought you were doing them as two separate runs. but yes, i do agree that 12 miles should at least take you somewhere :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.005.000.000.0015.00

So I-15 North was closed at the point of the mountain at 4:30 this morning for construction, luckily I noticed the backup before getting on the freeway and was able to take back roads to the gym but I still ended up getting there about 15 minutes later that I wanted.  Plan was to run part of my run on the Treadmill and finish on the trail but I realized the only way I was going to get done with my 15 mile run in time was to do the entire run on the treadmill, and do it pretty fast.

Ended up doing basically 2 back to back progressive tempo runs, first one 9 miles, then a treadmill reset and a second 6 miler.   I felt really good, I forgot my HR monitor but my cardio system seemed to hold up extremely well, legs were really the only thing that got to be a problem, oh and my right foot kept threatening to cramp up for some reason, maybe the 1000 miles on my Nike Free's is to much.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 7:01 7:01   
 2 13:54 6:53   
 3 20:39 6:45   
 4 27:11 6:32   
 5 33:38 6:27   
 6 39:57 6:18   
 7 46:07 6:10   
 8 52:09 6:02   
 9 57:59 5:50   
 10 1:04:21 6:34   
 11 1:10:55 6:22   
 12 1:17:16 6:21   
 13 1:23:30 6:14   
 14 1:29:38 6:08   
 15 1:35:23 5:45   
 Total 1:35:23 6:21   

 

**************************************************

I was going to do a lunch run today but I feel like I'm riding a fine line between gaining fitness and injuring myself again.  I've decided erroring on the side of rest is much better than hurting myself again.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

I needed that, a nice recovery day.  Went to the gym and did 45 minutes of weights and stretching type stuff, then ran the JRP trail on a perfect morning.  My legs feel really refreshed right now, best I've felt in weeks actually.

There is a lady that walks her dogs on the JRP every morning, and every morning I run right past the dogs with no incident, well this morning for some reason one of the dogs decided to attack me,  It tried to bite my leg but luckily didn't get it's teeth in.  I must have smelled different today :)

 6 miles in 46:24  7:44 avg pace.

************************************************

Realized the only way I was going to drag myself out of my comfy soft char in my cube for a lunch run was going to be a thoughtless, mind numbing run on an air conditioned treadmill, So I drove all the way back to the gym for an easy 6 miles, ended up being a 2 hour lunch Shhh, don't tell my boss.

6 miles in 43:21 7:13 avg pace. 

Last 1/4 in 85 just to show my body what tomorrows tempo run will feel like.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 6.00Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Carina on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 10:16:50 from 204.15.86.83

Where do you get on the JRP? Is it by maverick? Do you drive there, or run? Nice recovery run, glad you didn't get hurt by the crazy dog!!

From Rob on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 10:21:43 from 206.71.84.68

I go to Life Time fitness off of 114th south every morning on my way into work. The JRP trail is right across the street from the gym. I can run the trail and shower at the gym on my way to work.

And the best part in my work pays for our gym memberships.

From Carina on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 10:23:50 from 204.15.86.83

Well aren't you lucky!?! I want to get a membership there, but it is so expensive, and I don't know if I can compete with the Holly Wood like atmosphere I've heard about. Ha Ha

From Rob on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 10:55:53 from 206.71.84.68

Yep, the monthly membership fees are nuthin' compared to the plastic surgery bills. I'm going in for my 3rd round of botox tomorrow!!

From Carina on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 15:25:41 from 204.15.86.83

Lol!! Well I better start saving now so I can be presentable enough to join lifetime1!

From Rob on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 16:34:06 from 206.71.84.68

There is one exception, if you are faster than everyone else it doesn't matter what you look like.

I'm pretty sure you wouldn't need to worry either way though.

From allie on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 16:38:46 from 161.38.218.168

ah, lifetime. i heard there are diamonds studded into the treadmill belts. nice job getting your runs in today -- two runs today, right? :)

attack dogs. tsk. tsk.

From Rob on Wed, Aug 10, 2011 at 16:42:22 from 206.71.84.68

Yep Allie, that one does count as a double :)

The diamonds are nice, but I really like the pretty girls feeding me grapes and wiping sweat off my forehead while I run the most.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.005.000.0012.00

Pretty Gosh darned happy with my run today, it was one of those workouts that I was nervous thinking about last night trying to go to sleep.  It's always scary to know that you are purposely going to hurt yourself.  Workout called for a 4 mile LT tempo run, I took a wild guess and thought my LT range was somewhere in the 5:40 - 5:30 range.  Ran a 4 mile warmup then started out at 5:45 pace counting on progressively getting faster, I was actually pretty surprised how easily I fell into the pace, I guess that's where those short sprints come in.  Started out feeling hard but OK, then at the 1.75 mile mark something strange happened, my HR dropped about 5 bpm and it all of a sudden felt "easy" after the 4 miles was up I decided to go another mile just for good measure, I slowed it down a tad, it felt good to relax at 5:45 pace.

All and all, really happy.  Felt like this is the first workout I've actually hit since last March (with the exception of that random 1/2 marathon PR).  I feel like I could have actually gone harder but my HR was right where I expected it to be.

3 Mile cool down on the trail after.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 7:297:29  144 177
 2 14:477:18  143 145
 3 21:557:08  144 147
 4 28:577:02  148 151
 5 34:425:45
  164 169
 6 40:245:42
  170 172
 7 46:045:40
  172 173
 8 51:355:31
  173 175
 9 57:175:42
  171 175
 10 1:04:537:36  151 156
 11 1:12:297:36  152 154
 12 1:20:167:47
  151 154
 Total1:20:16
6:41
 157
175
Tempo Total
28:20
5:40

170
175

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Aug 11, 2011 at 12:11:31 from 204.15.86.83

Awesome run Rob!! Way to get it done!!!!

From Marlin on Thu, Aug 11, 2011 at 15:14:31 from 174.253.162.141

Rob, that is some very impressive times, great job.

From RAD on Fri, Aug 12, 2011 at 00:29:52 from 76.27.16.189

wow, excellent work Rob! Back in good form.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.860.000.000.0018.86

I had this brilliant idea that it would be fun to run to work this morning,  convinced Ryan that it would be fun, that guy will fall for anything.  Sucker!!

So yesterday we both brought a change of clothes to work and left it here, he left his car here and I drove him home,  Started from my house at 5:00 down the flight park road around the point of the mountain, picked up the Porter Rockwell trail and followed it into Draper, followed 13th East to Fort Union and then up the hill to the office.  This was a considerably much more difficult run than your average 19 miler, rollers the whole way and then a killer hill at mile 17 from 13th east to 3000 east, and then steep down to our office.  I thought it was going to be 18 but it ended up being almost 19, I just didn't have anything left when we got to the office to get that extra .14 miles in for an even 19. 

Pretty happy we did it, but I doubt I will try it again this year, I'll stick to my regular 18 mile flat loop.  Pretty decent average pace considering all the rollers and hill at the end.  Ryan definitely pushes me harder than I would push myself on those long runs.

18.86 miles in 2:15:20 7:09 avg page

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 18.86
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Aug 12, 2011 at 13:48:44 from 174.253.180.221

Wow!! Great long run!

From RAD on Fri, Aug 12, 2011 at 17:14:30 from 76.27.16.189

VERY nice run Rob!!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Well now I feel bad, I wanted to get 85 miles in this week but after yesterdays hard run my hip was giving me problems.  It's the same hip my stress fracture was in which freaks me out but I don't think it's still a stress fracture for a few reasons that may or may not be valid.  1. I can pass the hop test.  2. It feels better when I run on it.  3. Stretching helps.  Which was not the case when I had the stress fracture.   Not quite sure why it's bothering me, or if it's somehow related to the initial injury, but what ever the case I decided to not run this morning.  I don't want to push my luck.

Did a 1 mile swim in the pool instead and then sat in the hot tub.  Hip feels tons better and I'm sure my body will actually thank me next week for the extra day off from running.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Aug 13, 2011 at 15:05:17 from 204.15.86.83

Way to be smart!! I think miles are over rated :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.100.000.000.005.10

I try not to run on Sundays cause my wife gets mad at me, but when I woke up this morning I just couldn't lay there any longer.  5.1 miles with Nellie on an absolutely perfect cool morning, 4 of the 5 on dirt road.  That dog is out of shape, I had to drag her the last  mile, but she really is a great running companion, doesn't talk to much.  She takes the "stop and smell everything" approach to life.  I need that on my runs every once in a while.

5.1 miles in 41:40  8:10 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 5.10
Comments
From allie on Sun, Aug 14, 2011 at 18:38:07 from 24.10.191.18

sounds like a nice run. i won't tell anyone...

From Rob on Sun, Aug 14, 2011 at 20:45:48 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks allie, but I already got caught and paid the price.

I thought you were mad at me, so thanks for still talking to me.

From allie on Sun, Aug 14, 2011 at 22:00:56 from 24.10.191.18

haha. mad? no. :)

i guess i could be mad that you are doing SGM instead of TOU, but i'll forgive you this time...

From Rob on Sun, Aug 14, 2011 at 22:55:31 from 204.15.86.95

If I was a real man I'd do both.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Lifetime Fitness is closed for the week and really threw off my schedule.   The only thing I could think to do was drive to work and run from work, that way I didn't have to deal with traffic.  Ran from the office up to Wasatch Blvd. ran north on Wasatch until I hit 6 miles and then turned around.  Turned out to be a really nice run, the first 2 miles up the hill kind of sucked but Wasatch was really nice.  A wide bike lane all the way, nice views of the city, and a full moon on a nice cool morning, nuthin' fancy. 

Looks like that will be my daily run for the rest of the week.

12 miles in 1:26:30  7:12 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Aug 15, 2011 at 10:19:40 from 204.15.86.83

I ran up by there a couple of weeks ago and I was surprised how much I liked it, it really is a beautiful place to run.

From allie on Mon, Aug 15, 2011 at 10:43:53 from 161.38.218.168

i love wasatch blvd. sounds like a very pleasant run. the moon was cool this morning.

lifetime closed for a week?! are they rennovating?

From Rob on Mon, Aug 15, 2011 at 10:58:16 from 206.71.84.68

Yep, on the renovation. I hope they put a new belt on my treadmill.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Exact same run as yesterday except I took my iPod which made me run it 30 seconds per mile faster than yesterday.  Today was suppose to be a speed workout day but I have decided to abandon all speed workouts since they seem to cause bodily harm.

Noticed I was at 7:01 avg pace at the 6 mile turn around which means I averaged 6:21 coming back, not to shabby.

Another beautiful morning.

12 miles in 1:20:30 6:42 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Aug 16, 2011 at 21:58:04 from 24.10.191.18

nice pace. speed workouts cause bodily harm for me as well. i haven't done one in a year and a half...

From Carina on Tue, Aug 16, 2011 at 22:49:26 from 204.15.86.83

Great run!! So what will you do instead of speed work? Tempo runs?

From Rob on Wed, Aug 17, 2011 at 09:44:20 from 206.71.84.68

At this point I figure my best bet is to just show up at the start line un-injured. If I can gain some fitness and endurance along the way that's a plus. I'm not going to get the time I wanted but I'm sure if I can just stay healthy I can get a good PR.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Horrible night sleep last night, laid awake until 2:00am stressing about work, stressing about life, stressing about the fact I couldn't get to sleep so my run was going to bite.

Word of advice, if any of you are or ever will be in cub scouts, "DO NOT" do the space derby, stick to the tried and true Pinewood derby.  I was in charge of the Space Derby last night and it was a logistical nightmare, kids crying, parents yelling at me.  Not fun!!

Anyway, pretty much planned on skipping the long run today.  Thought I'd be good to go 8, instead of starting from my office and dealing with the climb up to Wasatch I drove and parked at the park and ride at the corner of 6200 and Wasatch.  Ran North on Wasatch to the trail that goes over I-80, and turned around and came back.  Tuned out being 10 miles round trip, I never really pushed the pace at all, just enjoyed the run.  Felt good, I'm sure the run woke me up better than an extra hour of sleep would have.

10 miles in 1:13:33 7:21 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Wed, Aug 17, 2011 at 09:45:20 from 204.15.86.83

For what it's worth Stephan and my boys had a blast, thanks for organizing that!! And great run despite the lack of sleep!

From Rob on Wed, Aug 17, 2011 at 09:52:43 from 206.71.84.68

Your kids made some mighty fine rockets.

I felt bad, my kids all kept loosing cause I couldn't help them get their rockets ready.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.002.000.000.0015.00

Since I did today's run yesterday I figured it made sense to run yesterdays run today. right? Felt really good this morning I should have taken advantage of feeling good and made it an even longer run but I only gave myself enough time for 15 before work.

Decided that a 7:00/mile avg seemed like a good pace for a mid week longer run, ran from the office up to Wasatch, north to the road that goes up Milcreek canyon, started running up Milcreek and thought about making it an even longer run since I felt good but the headwind made me change my mind so I turned around and headed back.   When I got to mile 13 I noticed that I was at an average 7:07 pace, 7 seconds per mile behind goal, I quickly did some calculations in my head.  Humm, lets see 7 seconds per mile over 13 miles with only 2 miles to make it up, Wow!  That's hard, I don't even think I could do that with a calculator.  Decided I should just run the last 2 miles really fast, turned out to be pretty good math, ended up with exactly a 7:00/mile avg pace.  So when in doubt just run fast, it seems to work out pretty good.

15 miles in 1:45:00 7:00/mile avg pace.

My 11 year wedding anniversary is tomorrow, do you think my wife would like one of these?


Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 15.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Aug 18, 2011 at 10:36:17 from 204.15.86.83

LOL!!! Knowing Britt she might find this amusing, but I think something a little more romantic would be better for you anniversary :) Nice job on your run today!

From Rob on Thu, Aug 18, 2011 at 10:39:18 from 206.71.84.68

Flying sharks are about as Romantic as we get in our house.

From Chad on Thu, Aug 18, 2011 at 11:02:52 from 168.177.153.27

Congrats on the anniversary. Coincidence, my 15th was yesterday.

Love the fish, those are cool.

From allie on Thu, Aug 18, 2011 at 19:18:26 from 24.10.191.18

nice run.

your wife will love them...

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

This morning I took some Immodium for the normal reasons one might take Immodium, about 3 miles into my run I got really loopy, and dizzy and just couldn't seem to run straight.  Had to stop and just stare at the stars for a bit.  Started up again very slow, luckily it's Friday and I wasn't really in a big hurry to get to work.  Is this a normal side effect to Immodium?  If so it's good to find out today than on a race day.

Last day to run my new Wasatch Blvd route, Monday I'm off to Las Vegas for 2 weeks, that should be interesting trying to find places and time to run down there.  Hotel gym doesn't open till 6:00am and morning temps are 85.  Guess I'll find out what its like to be Burt and JeffMC

10 easy slow miles in 1:16:34  7:38 avg pace.

Broke 1000 miles on my second pair of Nike Free's today, guess I should get a new pair.  Problem is there are 3 different shoes I want,  New Free's, Nike LunarGlides, and I wouldn't mind trying the New Balance Minimus.  But I don't have a spare $300 to blow on shoes.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 17:25:25 from 204.15.86.83

I always have weird reactions to medication, that's why I rarely take anything. Happy Anniversary BTW!!!

From Rob on Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 17:44:51 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks, it's been very Romantic so far. Work all day, kids soccer all night, early to bed. Are you running Hobblecreek?

From Carina on Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 18:02:27 from 204.15.86.83

No, I'm not running Hobblecreek, I kind of wish I were. Are you?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
20.000.000.000.0020.00

Well since Ryan was running Hobble Creek this morning I was struggling trying to find a running partner, so last night I asked my 9 year old if he wanted to go on a bike ride this morning, he of course said sure, little did he know it was at 5:00am and 18 miles.  :)  My 7 year old wanted to go too, but he just barely learned how to ride with out training wheels this summer.  I know sad, Bradin was riding without them at age 5. 

Anyway, I rigged up Bradins bike with a flashlight and duct tape head lamp, and a modified food and phone case strapped to his seat.  Woke him up at 5:00 and we headed down to the Maverik for my normal 18 mile loop.  Even though I put my Garmin on the charger last night the battery died at mile 1, very upsetting, Oh well, I've run this loop so many times I pretty much know my mileage the whole way.  Pace was slower than if Ryan would have been there pushing me.  I'm going to take a wild guess that my actual moving average was around 7:15 - 7:20.  Water breaks were a little longer just due to having a 9 year old on a bike with me.  He is an awesome running partner though, never complained once the entire ride.  We ran into 2 girls training for St. George and ran with them for about 1 mile, they thought Bradin was the cutest thing ever waking up going on an 18 mile bike ride with his dad at 5:30am.  Bradin obviously got annoyed with girl talk and went off ahead, so I said goodbye and went to catch up with Bradin again.

When we were finished I felt really good so when I got home I told Ethan (my 7 year old) to get on his bike for a ride.  I live on a loop that if you run the outside sidewalk around is exactly 1/4 of a mile, so I ran the loop 8 times with Ethan for an extra 2 miles to finish off the day.

Happy I got a long run in, wish I would have got a tempo in there somewhere but I think the long part was the important part.  I'm going to take a leap of faith the next 2 weeks and not run anything longer than 12 since I will be at a conference in Vegas.  That is when I always seem to get injured, on Conferences where I walk 15 miles a day, work 18 hours and then try and fit my running schedule in.  So I have modified it to shorter runs with Tempos in for the next month.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 20.00
Comments
From Rob on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 12:36:28 from 166.205.9.226

Update! Ryan ran 1:12:24 at Hobble Creek! Ouch, He is officially at a different level. 2:30 at St George looks good for him.

From Fritz on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 16:18:54 from 65.100.192.74

I think you need to take your son to get some ice cream for getting him up at 5.

Nice job on the run and for the week.

From Rob on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 16:35:58 from 204.15.86.95

The kid is definitely one of a kind, I've never met another 9 year old with that much drive.

I'm a little bit worried that this is my highest mileage week. Last year I had a few 90's and 1 100+ building up to TOU. I've just struggled getting mid-day runs in this year. Stupid work.

Oh well, we'll see.

From Carina on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 16:41:15 from 174.253.180.168

Nome of my kids would ever do that, what an awesome kid!! Great running today :)

From Chad on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 17:13:33 from 204.113.19.55

I took my daughter with me on her bike this morning. But it was only 5 miles and we started at 6:30 when she had enough light. 18 miles in the dark with a flashlight headlight is pretty cool.

From Rob on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 17:48:48 from 204.15.86.95

Chad, were you the one we passed just after Willow park? And I said "Looks like you had the same idea?"

From Rob on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 18:03:48 from 204.15.86.95

We are on our way to get ice-cream right now.

From Chad on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 18:16:06 from 204.113.19.55

That was me! Small world.

From allie on Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 22:39:39 from 24.10.191.18

nice running, rob. kudos to bradin. :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.005.000.000.0010.00

Pretty speedy progressive tempo run this morning, more because I was in a hurry to get to the airport than anything. 

The only difference I could tell with all the "re-modeling" at LifeTime this morning was the smell of carpet glue.  Nice way to wake up on a morning run, who knows maybe it helped.

Now I'm at the Airport 1 hour early, I don't know why I hurry all the time,  I'm always just sitting around anyway.  I will hit Delta Platinum on this trip, pretty excited about it, I haven't been Platinum for a few years.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
   
 1 6:52 6:52   
 2 13:36 6:44   
 3 20:10 6:34   
 4 26:38 6:28   
 5 32:56 6:18   
 6 39:08 6:12   
 7 45:10 6:02   
 8 51:06 5:56   
 9 56:56 5:50   
 10 1:02:57 6:01   
 Total 1:02:58 6:17   

 

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 10.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Aug 22, 2011 at 14:08:20 from 161.38.218.168

i love the smell of carpet glue. nice speedy run this morning, and good luck with your travels.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Well, this is going to be a huge problem, I have found the worlds least runner friendly city.  I'm staying at the Encore in Las Vegas,  I decided to run the strip since it is lit at 5:00am, well I ran that for a bit and found out this city really doesn't ever sleep, there were people harrasing me, Taxi's running over me so I decided to find a less populated route and ran out to Koval the road that goes behind all the Casinos, well about 1/4 mile into that some guy started chasing after me, yelling who knows what.  Luckily my sprint speed was faster than his and I hurried back up the the strip where at least there are Police around.  Dealt the the crowds and traffic and ran to the end of Mandalay Bay, then there weren't any people, which oddly enough was even more creepy.  That was 3.5 miles decided I'd had enough anyway and made the trek back to the hotel.  I did get lots of stair workout in going up and over all the bridges, but that was about the only good I got out of this run.

The hotel gym costs $15 per day, which at this point I'm willing to pay but they don't open until 6:00am and close at 9:00pm.  Not sure what I'm going to do...

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Chad on Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 10:41:04 from 168.177.153.27

I tried running at 5am in Vegas once. It was nasty hot. I ran on the strip and there were always stop lights to slow me down. I didn't have anyone yelling at me like you did but It wasn't any fun and I was scared to run anywhere else at 5am. I was only there for a couple days so after that one run I called it quits.

From Rob on Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 11:35:40 from 166.205.8.216

The heat wasn't horrible, just traffic and rude people mostly.

From jtshad on Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 11:45:43 from 204.134.132.225

Do you have a car? If you do, head out to the Clark Canyon Wetlands Park at the east end of Tropicana. It is a nice park with trails that I have run around many times (lots of loops) that is open from dawn to dusk. A nice alternative to the streets and not too far of a drive. Otherwise, head up to Red Rocks.

From Rob on Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 19:33:36 from 72.254.96.224

Thanks for the advice, I do have a car so maybe I will try that. My work schedule is nuts for the next 2 weeks, we work from 7:00am to 8:00pm everyday making running very difficult. My job has it's perks but every once in a while I have to pay for them.

From allie on Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 22:45:16 from 24.10.191.18

sorry about the rough run this morning. the park sounds nice though -- hopefully you can find some time to get out there. good luck with all the work stuff.

From Carina on Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 22:56:38 from 204.15.86.83

Running in Vegas is a total joke!! I tried it once. I think we ended up driving to a suburb and running a route we found on mapmyrun.com.

From RAD on Wed, Aug 24, 2011 at 00:43:50 from 76.27.16.189

Yuck! Yeah, I'd head out to the burbs as well. Good luck with getting the miles in.

From Smooth on Wed, Aug 24, 2011 at 00:56:53 from 174.27.193.15

I ran the Strip the year (2008 or 2009) we went to the Mountain West Conference basketball tournament for two days over the weekend. One was a 18 miler down the Strip one side and back on the other side. It was not that bad at 6 am and running up and down the pedestrian crosswalks was nice workout. We were staying at the Egyptian Luxor and we didn't have a car. But I think running the trail suggested by Jeff sounds much better.

Sorry you had to work such crazy hours in hot Vegas!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

A little bit better run today than yesterday,  I looked on Google maps and saw that there was the Wynn golf course right behind the hotel, decided to run around the perimeter of the golf course thinking it was about 2 miles, the loop ended up being 2.5 miles exactly which was even better so I ended up just running that loop 4 times for a total of 10. I only had to stop an 1 busy intersection each loop and I felt pretty safe the entire way.

It was very hot at 4:45 am, I'm guessing close to 90, The golf course was watering so every once in a while I got a nice cool breeze from the sprinklers.  Not the most scenic run but pretty good considering the alternatives.   111 degrees for the high today, seriously, who has a conference in Vegas in August, last year this was in San Francisco, I'd much rather be there.

10 miles in 1:11:24   7:06 avg pace

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Day 2 of heat resilience training. Same 4 loops as yesterday, I really wanted to do 1 fast loop but my body just can't seem to go any faster in this heat.  I really hope St. George is cold this year cause if it's hot I'm toast.  I at least was smart enough to stash a water bottle in the bushes this morning so I could hydrate every 2.5 miles, that helped.  I finished off by running to Walgreens and buying a litter of cold water, a Gaterade, and a Strawberry Quick.  All 3 were gone by the time I got back to my room.

10 miles in 1:09:27  6:57 avg pace.  2 minutes faster than yesterday.

 

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Chad on Thu, Aug 25, 2011 at 10:15:11 from 168.177.153.27

Glad you found somewhere nice to run. I shouldn't be complaining about the 70 degree start I had at 5am this morning.

From Rob on Thu, Aug 25, 2011 at 10:57:38 from 72.254.35.223

Thanks Chad, It's not the most Scenic route in the World but at 4:30 in the morning I guess it doesn't really matter.

From Carina on Thu, Aug 25, 2011 at 11:18:19 from 204.15.86.83

It was definitely warm this morning for my run, but I will not complain! Maybe you could train for badwater with temps like that :)

From allie on Thu, Aug 25, 2011 at 11:54:12 from 24.10.191.18

nice running, rob. it can definitely be difficult to get it going in the heat, but i think you are managing just fine.

From RivertonPaul on Thu, Aug 25, 2011 at 16:13:38 from 67.42.27.114

Sounds oh so thrilling.

From Rob on Fri, Aug 26, 2011 at 00:01:13 from 72.254.60.252

Hey Paul, are you back to blogging?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.001.000.000.0010.00

It may be a little bit cooler this morning than the last 2 days but I also wanted to treat todays run as a recovery so I kept the pace a bit slower which may have had something to do with it.  I thought an 8:00 pace sounded like a good goal when I went to bed last night so I even set my alarm 10 minutes earlier to compensate for the 1 min/mile slower pace.  The cooler temps and a nice breeze off of the golf course made it feel good and I ended up with a faster average pace but it felt good so just went with it.   Did 2 1/2 mile pickups at about 5:50 pace on the final lap just for the heck of it. 

I'm really happy with my decision to change my running schedule during this conference, last year I was going to bed at 11:00 and waking up at 3:00 trying to get my long runs in and it just tore me apart.  I'm actually feeling very good right now, minor aches and pains in my left leg but all and all I feel really good.  I'm not really feeling over worked at all, I probably wont be in as good of cardio shape as I was last year at this time but at least I'm not limping around like an 85 year old lady.

10 miles in 1:13:49 7:23 avg pace


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Pretty disappointed in this mornings run, plan was to run 12 miles at 6:20 avg pace.  When I got to the strip at 4:30 the street was packed with people, most of them drunk (well probably all).  It was crazy, I had to keep dodging people and running out into the street to get around everyone for the first 1/2 mile (drunk people think it's so funny to try and run with you, what's really funny is how stupid they look trying it),  after I left the strip it got a little easier but it was Hot, Windy, and Humid and I could tell it was going to be a long 12 miles.   First lap went OK, on the second lap the heat started to get to me and I started getting stomach cramps, slowed down a bit but managed to do the first 2 laps in 32 minutes (5 miles at 6:24 avg pace) after the second lap was done I decided to slow it down a bit more and try to cool down, never really could get back into it though,  ran 2 more loops and after finishing my standard 4 I just couldn't get motivated to run another step.  Went to Walgreens for some beverages and now I'm off to work.  Last day of setup today, the conference starts tomorrow.

I found out the Killers are going to be playing at this conference,  I really hope I can go, I like the Killers.

10 miles in 1:07  6:45 avg pace

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From RAD on Sun, Aug 28, 2011 at 02:27:54 from 76.27.16.189

Nice miles. You should've told the drunks it was a race, some may have believed you. I'd love to see it honestly! People watching (when they are drunk) is one of my favorite activities :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy miles just to get this busy.. busy.. day off right.  If it wasn't for this blog I would have no idea what day it was.

6 miles in 46:49  7:48 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Comments
From allie on Sun, Aug 28, 2011 at 10:12:05 from 24.10.191.18

good luck with the busy day.

From steve ash on Sun, Aug 28, 2011 at 16:05:58 from 24.10.169.210

I know exactly what you mean..

From Rob on Mon, Aug 29, 2011 at 00:01:08 from 70.0.227.45

Ah! I made it through the day, and only had to work a 13 hour day. Now the rest of the week is easy peasy!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

I think running in Vegas is probably the best thing I have done training wise ever.  It was about 5 degrees cooler this morning than it has been, but still 85 which hopefully is more than anything I will need to deal with in St. George.  I felt pretty good this morning, never really pushed hard but tried to keep a nice steady pace. 

Did my normal 4 loops and then 1 more mile into the loop turned around and went back for an even 12.  Not because I was afraid of an extra 1/2 mile but because I hate the last mile of my loop, it's hot, uphill and has the highest number of homeless people to jump over.

12 miles in 1:21:46  6:49 avg pace.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Aug 29, 2011 at 11:06:18 from 161.38.218.168

nice miles this morning, and way to put a positive spin on running in the hot vegas temps. it's definitely good conditioning for you to prepare for the heat at SGM.

jumping over people while running sounds like fun...

From Rob on Mon, Aug 29, 2011 at 11:32:56 from 72.254.96.254

Jumping over people is fun for a while but gets old.

Nice job on your run this morning too, good luck not breaking.

I would comment on your blog, but I'm supporting a conference and every time a piece of hardware goes down I get an e-mail alert which is very stressful, so the shlew of e-mails I get from commenting on your blog would just put me over the edge :)

From Carina on Mon, Aug 29, 2011 at 15:20:12 from 204.15.86.83

I hope this doesn't put you over the edge!! Nice running this morning. That's a great pace!!

From Rob on Mon, Aug 29, 2011 at 15:47:15 from 72.254.96.254

1 or 2 e-mails are good. Commenting on allies blog is, well you know!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

So much for easy peasy,  the 18,000 attendees here at VMWorld  all but crashed our network yesterday so we were up late last night completely re-engineering the entire network.  Just planned on not running this morning but like clockwork I was up at 4:00am anyway, at that point I realized I wouldn't be able to go back to sleep anyway thinking about work so I went for an nice easy run instead.

10 miles in 1:16:??  7:25 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.500.000.000.0012.50

Nice morning, getting cooler and cooler every day.  It was a little bit breezy which kept drying me out but I had my water stash every 2.5 miles.  My Garmin died at .5 miles so I just had to run by feel, pretty sure the first 2 laps were 6:30ish pace, then I slowed into a more comfortable pace for the next 2.  I was just going to run 1 mile of the final loop and turn around for an even 12 but I saw a guy ahead and caught up to him.  He is here for the conference from Indiana and was in the same boat as I was, nowhere to run.  I told him I'd show him my loop so I ran with him for the final loop.  I wish I would have had him earlier, it made it really nice to talk to someone and forget about running for a bit.

Really kind of clueless about my total time,  all I know is I made it to work on time.  This conference out of all other conferences I do per year really is the only one where I start thinking about getting a new job.  So ready to be done.  Then I get to go do it all over again next week in San Francisco.

I'm looking for a running partner really early on Saturday morning for a 22 - 24 mile run.  Any takers?

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 12.50
Comments
From jtshad on Wed, Aug 31, 2011 at 11:47:10 from 204.134.132.225

Couldn't convince your wife to let you come to Poky?

From Rob on Wed, Aug 31, 2011 at 11:51:16 from 72.254.96.254

Nope, It was a pretty definitive "NO" when I brought it up again.

From Carina on Wed, Aug 31, 2011 at 23:03:26 from 204.15.86.83

I love running with a buddy, it's the best. If my ankle wasn't all jacked up I might take you up on that 22 miler, except that your too fast! I tried to tell Britt to let you run it, but she was pretty adamant about you not. Save it for St. George!

From Kurt on Thu, Sep 01, 2011 at 16:53:35 from 174.52.144.102

I would be very interested in doing a long run with you. What kind of pace are you looking for and where were you thinking of doing it?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.002.0012.00

I'm probably a little too old to say I have a favorite band but if I were to say which group I have listened to more running miles than any other it would have to be The Killers, so when we got the word that staff was invited to the Killers concert last night I was pretty excited. I pretty much know the words to every one of their songs.  While we were standing in the crowd waiting for the concert I got a text from our contact saying that the internet connection back stage wasn't working and the Killers wouldn't play until it was fixed.  I figured it must be the back stage production guys that were broken so me and 2 co-workers went running back stage and found out that it was actually the band that was having problems.  We went to the Green Room where the Killers and all their groupies were and discovered that someone had un-plugged the switch to plug in a Refrigerator, cause of course cold drinks in the green room of a rock concert are way more important than internet.  Anyway it was way cool, highlight of the trip, Brandon Flowers actually said Hi to me :).  We were invited to sit backstage after than but I really wanted to go watch the concert.  Concert started right on time and it was probably one of the best concerts I've ever been to.

Back to running.  Great run today, temperatures in the 70's this morning and I felt really good, plan was to run 10 slow but I ended up sprinting every intersection whether there were cars or not just because.  I would guess that was about 12 -15 short sprints total.  Felt good after 10 and decided to run 2 more,  ran the last 1/2 down the strip really fast.  My Garmin must have just bit the dust completely so I didn't get splits again but I ran the last 1/4 faster than I've ever ran a 1/4 before.  I'm guessing pretty close to 4:30 pace but I have no proof.

17 hour work day today, but it's finally tear down day and I get to go home tomorrow,  So glad.  I may or may not get around to running tomorrow.

12 miles in ~1:27ish  7:15 pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Thu, Sep 01, 2011 at 11:34:45 from 24.10.191.18

that's awesome! the last time the killers came to SLC, my car broke down on the way to the concert and i missed it :( sounds like it was a fun night.

good running, too.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

I thought I would never get done with this last 2 weeks but I finally made it.  Worked until 11:00 pm last night so only a 16 hour day.  Now I'm sitting at the Airport.

6 easy miles this morning waiting for our flight.  3 with one of my Co-Workers and then 3 alone.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 6.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Sep 02, 2011 at 16:40:40 from 24.10.191.18

congrats on making it through these last two weeks. sounds like it was pretty crazy. you did a good job of keeping on top of your running and getting the miles in where you could. that's a victory right there. safe travels.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
23.000.000.000.0023.00

Awesome, Awesome morning.  Kurt answered my desperate cry for help a few days ago when I put out that I needed a running partner for a long run today.  He E-mailed and said he was up for a 22 miler, but 18 was the furthest distance he had ever run prior.  I flew home yesterday afternoon from Vegas and when I got home came up with a route basically running the first 15 miles of Des News course but instead of going North on Foothill we came south over I-80 and continued on Wasatch finishing at the park and ride above my office building.  We met at the Park and Ride at 5:00 am, left Kurts car there and headed up the course dropping water bottles in various strategic places along the route.  We got to the top about 30 minutes earlier than I had planned so it was pitch black still, I had a headlamp but the batteries were all but dead so we headed down the canyon basically by the light of really bright stars.  It was a perfect morning, cool breezes the entire way, we never did have sun on us.  Great company and great conversation.

Kurt is an animal, he's never ran a marathon, never ran over 18 miles before but somehow managed to plow through 22 miles at 6:44 avg pace, incredible.  Pretty much no question whether or not he can run a sub 3:00 marathon, he basically did it today, with a good 5 minutes to spare.

1/4 of a mile to the car I told Kurt I wanted to turn around and run back and have him finish his 22 and come back and pick me up.  I really wanted to try and get at least an extra mile in so I cranked out a 5:52 final mile just cause I wanted to get the full mile in before Kurt picked me up.  It worked out perfect, I hit 23 turned around and there he was.

Perfect Day, I'm really excited about how good I felt the entire run.  Last long run I have time for before St. George, now the key is to show up on race day feeling as good as I did today and I'm sure I can crank out a decent PR.

23 miles in 2:34:16 6:42 avg pace.

 

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 23.00
Comments
From RAD on Sat, Sep 03, 2011 at 16:14:10 from 76.27.16.189

You guys really are amazing! Nice work Rob! Kurt's really just taking this thing by the horns!! Glad you had a wonderful run. See you at SGM, hopefully!

From Carina on Sat, Sep 03, 2011 at 16:54:42 from 204.15.86.83

Wow, awesome long run!!!

From allie on Sat, Sep 03, 2011 at 17:12:04 from 24.10.191.18

most excellent. big PR is coming...

From Rob on Sat, Sep 03, 2011 at 18:41:33 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks for the drinking fountain info allie. They came in very handy.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
1.000.009.000.0010.00

Pretty crazy workout, I feel like I got away with something.  At least I hope I did.  Decided to go get reacquainted with the ol' treadmill this morning.  I wanted to show my legs what it felt like to run fast downhill so I tested out the decline feature on the treadmill.  Ran a 1 mile warmup at 7:00 pace and then set the treadmill to -1.5 and went to 5:50 pace, bumped up the speed every 2 miles.

Felt really good from a cardio standpoint,  legs were really the only thing complaining but I actually feel like I could have kept going at that pace if I had to.  Luckily I didn't.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Incline  
 1 7:03 7:03 0%  
 2 12:51 5:48 -1.5%  
 3 18:34 5:43 -1.5%  
 4 24:17 5:43 -1.5%  
 5 29:57 5:40 -2%  
 6 35:33 5:36 -2%  
 7 41:09 5:36 -2%  
 8 46:42 5:33 -2.5%  
 9 52:12 5:30 -2.5%  
 10 57:34 5:22 -2.5%  
Total
57:35
5:45
- 2%  

My Cyclist friend got this shirt just to wear in front of me.  I was running so fast I felt like I was a criminal today.  I'm not sure why there was money in the garbage can.

 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From allie on Mon, Sep 05, 2011 at 21:31:13 from 24.10.191.18

nice!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.200.000.000.0016.20

Decided to take a real recovery day, pretended I had a stress fracture.  45 minutes on the Elliptical, 30 minutes of weights and stretching.  Now I'm sitting at the airport waiting to fly to San Francisco.  Weather looks perfect there, I'm pretty excited to run there it's one of my favorite places to train for 2 weeks.

################### 4 hours later ########################

Well, I had an inkling something like this might happen.  Our shipment was delayed so the amount of work we were able to do today was minimal.  Which means double work tomorrow.  

One thing I have always wanted to do in San Francisco is run across the Golden Gate bridge and run in the Golden Gate National Park but from downtown across the bridge and back is an 18 mile round trip in itself which always put it out of reach.  Today I decided to take a taxi to the bridge run across it and run the trails in the park.  I told my co-worker Jeff this plan and he thought it sounded fun as well.  Problem is the furthest he has ever ran is 6 miles and he's fairly slow.  Oh well I can't really tell him no, so we both went, I ran with him across the bridge and then told him I was going to explore and to meet back in 1 hour.  I took a road down to the beach which dead ended, and realized I took a wrong turn so I headed back up the mountain to the top. (2000 ft of elevation gain in 3 miles), from the top the views were amazing, the place would be a trail runners paradise. I took a few picture and head back down, met Jeff on the bridge and finished crossing with him for a total of 10 for me and 8 for him, he said he was done and took a taxi back, I opted to run back for an extra 6 slow miles.

My legs are completely trashed, I took an ice bath when I got back to the hotel.  Great run, I wish I could have been a little bit more fresh, and wish I would have know my way around better but it was fun non the less.

16.2 miles in 2:10:00  ~8:00 min/mile avg.

 

 

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 16.20Elliptical Trainer Miles: 6.00
Comments
From RAD on Tue, Sep 06, 2011 at 20:55:03 from 76.27.16.189

wow, simply breath taking! Nice work. I thought my 2000 ft over about 6 miles was nasty...YIKES! I will now have to put this run on my bucket list. The views would be worth it! Enjoy the good weather.

From Rob on Tue, Sep 06, 2011 at 22:42:32 from 107.37.215.108

It was way neat. I think going up the road about 10 more miles to the Muir woods would actually be better but I didn't really have a way to get there.

From steve ash on Tue, Sep 06, 2011 at 22:46:43 from 24.10.169.210

Wow! Rob, I want to go next time.. You can pack me in a large suitcase if you have to LoL!

Man.. You seriously get to go to some really cool places:)

From allie on Tue, Sep 06, 2011 at 23:29:44 from 24.10.191.18

cool pictures. cool run.

From Rob on Wed, Sep 07, 2011 at 08:40:29 from 107.37.215.108

I do go lots of cool places for sure. But it comes with a price, like missing my sons first day of pre-school, and first soccer game :(

From Kurt on Thu, Sep 08, 2011 at 00:55:45 from 174.52.144.102

I'm sorry that you missed your sons soccer game and the first day of pre-school, but I have to tell ya, I am SOOO jealous about those runs. That looks Awesome. I raced at Stanford in college once and I absolutely loved running out there. I hope you have some more time to really enjoy it.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 slow miles on a chilly yet gorgeous morning here in San Francisco.  Ran down Market to the Embarcadaro around passed Fishermans Warf, over Fort Mason to Crissy Field then back. 

Tons of runners out this morning.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.505.000.000.0011.50

11.5 miles due to bad math, apparently my hotel is 1/4 mile closer to the Embarcadaro than last year so my runs are a 1/2 mile short.

Cool, Breezy morning.  I got an early start cause we are really behind on work since our shipment didn't get in until 3:00pm yesterday.  Ran the same route as yesterday except I went a mile further and ran back faster.  Threw in an impromptu 5 mile tempo run coming back just to get back quicker.  ~6:25 avg pace on Tempo.

11.5 mile 1:20:23  6:53 avg pace.

It seems that the 3 - 4 week out from marathon day is very stressful, at least it is for me.  I feel like this is my last chance to add any extra bit of fitness I can before the race, but it also seems like an injury is lurking if I push it to hard.  It's such a game of balance.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 11.50
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Sep 08, 2011 at 12:09:14 from 204.15.86.83

I so get the stress!! I feel like I'm losing fitness :(

From Kurt on Thu, Sep 08, 2011 at 12:56:33 from 174.52.144.102

I know what you are talking about, I also feel like I'm pushing my running to the red line. Knock on wood you will toe that starting line injury free. Then we will all get to see how you can really run.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

Made sure I went an extra 1/2 mile to get my even 12 in for the day, just kind of ran this morning, wasn't really sore or tired just for some reason didn't have a lot in me.  I did have to do a couple of sprints coming back up Market to get through intersections but other than that just a easy steady pace.

12 miles in 1:26:50  7:14 avg pace.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Sep 09, 2011 at 11:22:27 from 24.10.191.18

bread and butter...

From Rob on Fri, Sep 09, 2011 at 12:51:01 from 72.254.80.100

Sour dough and clam chowder.

From Carina on Fri, Sep 09, 2011 at 17:48:24 from 204.15.86.83

I am so jealous! I think San Francisco has been my favorite place to run so far!!

From Rob on Fri, Sep 09, 2011 at 18:29:22 from 72.254.80.100

Not gunna lie, it's pretty perfect running conditions here. I just wish work didn't wear me out so much so I could enjoy it.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
17.000.000.000.0017.00

I told myself I wouldn't run further than 12 miles while I was in "Show mode" but I actually got a pretty decent night sleep last night and felt really good this morning,  I thought it might be my last chance to run across the Golden Gate Bridge.  I woke up a bit earlier and was out the door at 4:37.  Ran to the visitor center on the far side of the bridge in 1:01:00, running on the bridge at 5:30 is really surreal, It's pretty amazing how the fog just kind of sits over the bridge,  completely silent except for the Fog Horns going off every minute or so.  It's a pretty amazing experience.  Made the return in 56 minutes, 5 minute negative split over 8.5 miles.

Busy work day now,  I'll probably take tomorrow off.

17 miles in 1:57:00  6:52 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 17.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

40 minutes on the elliptical trainer in the hotel gym, followed by weights and a soak in the hot tub.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 5.00
Comments
From allie on Sun, Sep 11, 2011 at 11:22:30 from 24.10.191.18

sounds like a nice way to spend a sunday morning. good job with the cross training and giving your legs some recovery time.

From Rob on Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 00:05:50 from 107.38.41.209

It was a nice break. I'm feeling very good right now, pretty excited that I've made it this far without injury. I have 800's on the schedule tomorrow but am really skeptical about doing them. That's how I hurt myself in March, speed work while working long hours. Humm, decisions decisions.

From Kurt on Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 00:39:28 from 174.52.144.102

Good luck with the speed work. I always like it because if you start feeling something going wrong you can stop it at any time without a long run back to the car. The problem is making sure you are listing to your body and are willing to bag the workout. Or at least that is usually my problem.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.500.000.002.5012.00

7.5 easy miles out to the Fort Mason hill and back, pretty warm this morning I wore a long sleeve shirt and had to take it off half way through.  Ran in to my Co-worker Jeff on the way back so I ran back with him.  He's definitely getting in much better shape,  Sub 8:00 min pace for the the whole way.

7.5 in 57:52  7:43 avg pace.

Came back to the hotel treadmill to do the dreaded 5 x 800's  I contemplated skipping this workout all together but decided I was feeling good and it might be good for me if I didn't break myself.  Found out I'm not in as good as shape as I thought I was or maybe want to be, I need to remind myself that my main goal wasn't to get to St. George in the best shape of my life, just get there.  I thought I'd be able to run at least 2 of my sets at 5:00 pace but found out that around 5:10 is puke pace and I could only hold that for about 1/4.  After my second repeat I really felt sick and decided to run the final 3 a bit slower.  My form felt OK and it didn't really "hurt" I just felt sick running that fast.

5 x 800's with 400 rest.

2:36, 2:36, 2:39, 2:46, 2:47

Boston Marathon sign up today!! Who's going?  Not me, I don't have a Qualifier :(  But.... my St. George time will qualify me for 2013 and I'll turn 40 1 week before Boston 2013, so that's my new goal.  Sad that I'm looking forward to turning 40.


Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Fritz on Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 17:08:11 from 65.116.116.6

Thanks for the heads up on Boston. I like the new process

http://www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon/participant-information/registration-process.aspx

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

My left hip started out hurting a bit this morning and I thought "oh great, now I did it, I made it this far went and did speed work and broke it again"  after about 1 mile though it loosened up and felt fine the rest of the run so I think I'm OK,  I'll just take it easy for the next couple of days.

Wicked headwind going out to the GG bridge this morning but that was OK cause I knew that meant wicked tailwind coming back.  Held a 6:30 pace on the way back without a whole lot of effort.

12 miles in 1:25:12  7:06 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Sep 13, 2011 at 14:28:17 from 161.38.218.168

i thought that i had rebroken my leg after every 5k this summer -- it's definitely a valid concern. nice job getting through your workout yesterday. i'm glad your hip felt okay after warming up today. i'm sure it's fine. i *think* my leg is fine, but i am feeling it this week more than ever. i keep telling myself it's just in my mind...:/

From Rob on Tue, Sep 13, 2011 at 17:55:39 from 72.254.11.154

It's very strange, anytime I feel pain from a hard run it is in the hip that was broken. It always just feels like muscle pain but I'm sure there has to be some relation.

From Kurt on Wed, Sep 14, 2011 at 12:55:07 from 174.52.144.102

Take care of that hip my friend. I cant wait to see what you can do in the marathon as a healthy runner. And running on the Golden Gate Bridge, are you serious? I'm so jealous!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

16 hour work day, 2 hours of sleep, 45 minutes on the Elliptical.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.005.000.000.0015.00

Incredible run this morning,  I'm so ready to go home after 4 weeks on the road but I am going to miss running in this nice cool moist sea level air.  I know I'm boring for running the same route every single day but it's such an awesome run, I'd run 20 miles a day if I lived here I think.   Wanted to get one last run on the bridge in so I ran 1/2 way across until I hit 7.5 stopped and looked at the amazing views of the city and then started back.  The Bridge is incredibly fast, perfect down hill sloop and really fast smooth surface.  I wasn't planning on it but running back on the bridge started off an impromptu tempo run

First 7.5 miles in 53:24 7:07 avg pace

Second 7.5 miles in 46:51 6:14 avg pace

15 miles in 1:40:15

I posted the Garmin map cause I thought it was funny my Garmin thinks I jumped off the bridge.

http://connect.garmin.com/player/114516937

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 15.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Sep 15, 2011 at 13:41:31 from 204.15.86.83

When we were out there we stayed just up the street from there. I loved running in SF I felt like a total rockstar with the elevation difference! How long does that last? I'm glad you have been able to enjoy running out there!

From allie on Thu, Sep 15, 2011 at 22:19:41 from 24.10.191.18

great run, rob. it sounds awesome.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 really easy miles just enjoying my last day running in San Fran.  Now I'm sitting at the airport waiting for my 2 hour delayed flight, tt's only 1:30 flight.  If I would have known I had 3 hours to run this morning I would have done a long run today.

10 miles in 1:18:50  7:53 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.008.000.000.0018.00

Today is cutoff day, the last day I told myself I can do anything to improve my performance in St. George.   I'm in as good as shape now as I can possibly be so I'll just have to be satisfied with it, anything I do over the next 2 weeks will only hurt my performance.

When I woke up this morning it was raining pretty hard so I altered my running plan and went to the gym and ran on the treadmill, decided to start with my 9 mile progressive fitness test with HR monitor to see where I was fitness wise.

Much harder effort for 18 miles than I had planned on, but I felt OK and feel OK now, HR stayed manageable the entire time.

I hope all ya'll up in Logan didn't get to soaked today,  looks like some really cool temperatures up there this morning.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 HR March
 HR Aug
 HR Today
 1 7:01 7:01 135 137 132
 2 13:54 6:53 144 152 143
 3 20:47 6:44 149 155 148
 4 27:23 6:36 152 160 152
 5 33:49 6:26 154 165 156
 6 40:07 6:19 156 169 159
 7 46:18 6:11 157 170 162
 8 52:22 6:04 159 172 163
 9 58:02 5:50 159 173 165
 10 1:04:35 6:37   149
 11 1:11:07 6:32   160
 12 1:17:33 6:26   161
 13 1:23:56 6:23   162
 14 1:30:15 6:19   162
 15 1:36:30 6:15   162
 16 1:42:40 6:10   164
 17 1:48:59 6:19   163
 18 1:54:51 5:52   168
 Total 1:55:00 6:23   156

Looking at my HR's I'm pretty happy with my progress, March is back when I think I was the best shape I have ever been right before my stress fracture, the August HR was measured on Aug 4th, 6 weeks ago 1/2 way through my 12 week build up, I remember feeling depressed how out of shape I had become,  I think I have made very good improvement over the last 6 weeks, not quite optimum performance but not bad at all.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 18.00
Comments
From Kurt on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 19:11:31 from 75.196.211.203

Nice run! It looks like you found another gear at mile 10. Enjoy the easy runs from hear on out.

From Rob on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 20:59:47 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks Kurt, there is a reason for the fast mile. The treadmill resets at 1 hour, since I couldn't get 10 miles in under 1 hour I stop it at 9 so mentally I feel like I'm going to get a break at the end of 9 and push myself harder :)

From Carina on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 21:20:40 from 204.15.86.83

You're going to do so well at St. George, I can't wait to see you kick some bootie!!!

From Rob on Sat, Sep 17, 2011 at 21:41:39 from 204.15.86.95

Are you going to be there Carina?

From RAD on Mon, Sep 19, 2011 at 00:35:31 from 76.27.16.189

excellent run Rob! Glad that TM got a good workout too.

Glad to hear that the fitness has come back to you and that you are feeling confident for SGM.

What I love most about this post: you know and live by the "you can do nothing the 2 weeks before a marathon to help yourself, you can only hurt yourself." Now that I'm a tad bit sidelined, I'm taking comfort in the fact that I can x-train to keep the cardio and hoping my legs remember what to do in 2 weeks, and that I'm healed.

From what I understand I'm pushing a SF right now and if I push the pain I may be in it up to my eyeballs. So, I'm banking on the 2 week thing. Thanks for the re-enforcement of that with your post today. patience...patience....

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.001.0010.00

Treadmill run.

8 Miles in 55:50  7:00 avg pace.  Then I did 10 X 0.1 mile strides with .1 mile jog.  Started at 13.1mph, 13.2, 13.3 ...... 14.0.

10 miles in 1:08:45.

 

I wasted about 1 hour of time at work today making this nifty pace calculator for St. George.  You can download it here and try it out.  Tell excel to enable editing for it to work.  No, it's not a virus.


Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Kind of a weird workout today,  I'm really dumb that I don't just wait an extra hour and run outside, it's such perfect running weather, It's not like I have anything better to do, like work ;) 

Anyway, TM run again.  Set the speed to 8 mph and never changed it again,  The first 3 miles I did 1/4 mile off and on toe striking to try and use some of my calf muscles that normally don't get use, after I'd had enough of that I did 3 1 mile hill climbs at 3-5% incline with 1 mile flat in between.  Didn't really want to hurt myself since today was suppose to be an easy day but I did work some different muscles than I'm used to for sure. Hope I don't hurt to bad tomorrow.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Chad on Tue, Sep 20, 2011 at 10:23:31 from 168.177.153.27

Run in the dark. It's great. I see you're still putting miles on those shoes. Are you going for 2,000? Sweet.

From Rob on Tue, Sep 20, 2011 at 11:12:25 from 206.71.84.68

I don't mind running in the dark, I'm just lazy some days.

I love those shoes, I just can't let them go. They are starting to get holes in the top so they probably won't make it to 2000.

From Chad on Tue, Sep 20, 2011 at 11:16:19 from 168.177.153.27

Duct tape.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.003.009.00

I hope I don't ever make myself that sick again for at least 1 1/2 weeks.  5 mile warm-up and then 3 x 1miles with 1/2 mile rest.  Actually felt better than when I did my 800's last week,  I probably could have done these faster but didn't really want to puke all over the treadmill.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
  Avg HR
 Max HR
 17:21
 7:21  148 179
 214:25 7:04  146 149
 321:17 6:52  148 151
 427:58
 6:41  153 156
 534:57
 6:59  153 160
 640:23
 5:26  170 177
 6.544:50
 7:55  159 176
 7.550:20
 5:25  172 179
 855:03
 9:26  154 179
 91:00:21
 5:18  172 178
Total
1:00:21 6:42  156 179

I wasted an embarrassing amount of time yesterday putting this Pace Calculator for St. George Together,  I basically wanted to compare a few different things.  First I have the results from a calculator I found online, then I compiled data from actual FRB bloggers results over the past 4 year from some of our favorite bloggers, then I did one based strictly on per mile gradient of the course, and finally used results from Sasha's course tool.  The results are interesting, not sure how useful they are though.  Take a look and tell me what you think.

St. George Pace Calculator comparison.

Just enter your goal time in the box and it will calculate the rest.

 

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 9.00
Comments
From allie on Wed, Sep 21, 2011 at 11:10:35 from 161.38.218.168

nice workout. wow.

i think the pace calculator is pretty cool, but i don't have any feedback on it because a) i've never run st. geoerge and b) i'm not running it this year so i don't have any use for it. however, if that was built for a marathon i was running, i would be all over it. so i think it's going to be very useful for you and others who are running. anything that involves running/pace/mile/marathon calculations is a good use of time :)

From Rob on Wed, Sep 21, 2011 at 11:17:25 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks allie,

You don't need to be running St. George to have feedback. The main thing I was trying to get a grip on with it is the difference between actual human results compared to actual course profile. Plus I'm trying to figure out if it's better to start out fast and just hold off the crash, or start out conservative and just run "allie style"

From allie on Wed, Sep 21, 2011 at 11:35:31 from 161.38.218.168

i just plugged in a few different goal times and it's really cool. it seems pretty accurate to me based on what i do know about the course. the comparison with the "tools" and the "humans" is very interesting -- a bigger slow down at the end occurs with a much faster start -- seems to be pretty typical of any marathon. it's personal preference for sure, and only you know how your body will best respond, but i say the "even effort" strategy will produce better results than the "fast start/hang on" strategy. however, i've never run this course so maybe it's unique. i just like the the way the splits look from the course tool. seems like a very sensible way to run the race. in any case, good luck. you are going to do really well, i'm sure.

From Carina on Wed, Sep 21, 2011 at 11:52:43 from 204.15.86.83

If I were running St. George I think I would totally use this! I am a big fan of going out slower. I think if you go out too fast you'll pay for it in the end.

Your workout today was awesome!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I haven't swam in quite some time now, a couple of months at least, I almost forgot how.

It took me about 10 laps to get a rhythm down.   32 laps, then a soak in the hot tub, weights and stretching, back to the hot tub, then to the steam room.  I could get used to this taper thing.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Great run this morning along Wasatch Blvd, 8 mile out and back.  Perfect morning, perfect temps.  I spent a lot of time just thinking about how amazing it is to be running completely pain free 1 week away from a marathon.  I always just assumed that getting ready for a marathon meant constant pain.  I'm not really sure where I am from a fitness stand point, I've pretty much just spent the last 12 weeks making sure I didn't hurt myself again more than doing fitness structured workouts.  I think I'm in pretty good shape, I feel really good but I'm afraid my goal time may be a bit aggressive. 

8 miles in 59:08  7:23 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From RAD on Fri, Sep 23, 2011 at 14:31:26 from 76.27.16.189

Will you share your secret? I have yet to get through a taper for a goal race feeling good an uninjured! I think you will surprise yourself at SGM. Looks to be a near perfect (although slightly warm) race!

From Carina on Fri, Sep 23, 2011 at 15:28:33 from 204.15.86.83

You are going to do so well, I'm excited to see it!! Way to go staying injury free. It's tougher than it looks!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.003.000.0015.00

Since I've been gone Ryan has been cheating on me with Scott Keate and doing his long Saturday runs with Scott's group.  So this morning he asked if I wanted to join them, I said sure.

Ran down to the corner of Timpanogas Highway and Traverse Mountain (~2 miles) where Ryan picked me up and we drove to the mouth of Provo Canyon, met Scott and his group, there were 8 of us all with at least sub 3:00 goal in mind for St. George next week.  Ran pretty much together up the canyon almost to Vivian park stopped and turned around.  Scott asked if we were up for a 3 mile Tempo run at Marathon pace, 3 of us agreed, I asked what Marathon pace meant he said about 5:50 so I thought that sounded OK.  We ran slow for 1/2 a mile to get to 7 and then took off,  I looked down.  5:20 I said, uh! we're going a bit fast, Ryan and Scott laughed and said ya we kind of are, I backed off, they didn't.  I went 5:34, 5:35, 5:43 for my tempo run, Ryan and Scott gained about 10 seconds per mile on me.  so much for 5:50 pace.  Liars.

13 miles in 1:27:20  6:42 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.00
Comments
From RAD on Sat, Sep 24, 2011 at 12:31:58 from 76.27.16.189

All runners are good liars!

Nice job on the river trail - one of my favorites!

From Rob on Sat, Sep 24, 2011 at 19:56:09 from 204.15.86.95

Rachelle, I never lie.

That is a great trail, I love all the runners on it. Perfect morning too.

From Teena Marie on Sun, Sep 25, 2011 at 12:53:19 from 174.27.200.245

That is a sweet pace, Rob!

Very impressive!!! :) :) :)

From Rob on Sun, Sep 25, 2011 at 14:56:09 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks Teena Marie, I wish that was my marathon pace.

Are you running next week.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7 miles in 52:10  7:27 avg pace. 

Did 5 X 100m strides the last mile just to loosen up.  Feeling pretty good but very anxious. 

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Sep 26, 2011 at 10:22:52 from 204.15.86.83

Use that anxiety as fuel for the race. You've got this!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.003.000.000.009.00

9 Mile progressive run to analyze fitness one last time.

 Distance Time Avg Pace
 Sept 17 HR
 Today HR
 Max HR
 1 7:01 7:01 132 136 147
 2 13:55 6:54 143 149 153
 3 20:38 6:43 148 151 154
 4 27:14 6:36 152 154 156
 5 33:40 6:26 156 157 159
 6 39:59 6:19 159 160 162
 7 46:10 6:11 162 163 165
 8 52:13 6:03 163 165 166
 9 57:58 5:45 165 167 171
 Total 58:00 6:27153
155
171

Humm, strange.  I actually wasn't expecting that.  My HR was 2 -5 bpm higher than 10 days ago when I did that same run.  Splits were almost identical so I'm not sure what's up.  I've kind of felt maybe a slight cold coming on, I hope it's not an issue.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From allie on Tue, Sep 27, 2011 at 10:55:35 from 24.10.191.18

just focus on rest this week and i'm sure you'll be fine. i'll be cheering for you on saturday -- you've worked so hard this summer to come back and you are ready. good luck.

From Rob on Tue, Sep 27, 2011 at 12:04:33 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks Allie, I'm really nervous for some reason. Luckily work is keeping me busy to keep my mind off of it.

From Kurt on Thu, Sep 29, 2011 at 17:00:51 from 174.52.144.102

I have been reading a book called Total Heart Rate Training by Joe Friel that sheds some light on situations like this. In short it says don’t get wrapped around the axle if you HR test comes back with some unexpected results. There are to many variables to get accurate information form one test to the next. What you have to pay attention to is the trend over time. That will give you a better since of how you are doing.

You know you have put in the work. You are ready, and you are going to kill it at Saint George. Good luck!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

32 laps in the pool in 40 minutes then stretching and light weights. 

Today it was confirmed what I already knew.  All the cool people go to Life Time fitness, I saw Carina there doing "Total Body Workout"

Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From Andrea on Wed, Sep 28, 2011 at 17:59:38 from 63.241.111.230

32 laps in a pool sounds mindnumbingly miserable!

From Rob on Wed, Sep 28, 2011 at 18:02:22 from 166.205.9.161

I just think about running to pass the time :)

From allie on Wed, Sep 28, 2011 at 18:55:39 from 24.10.191.18

good call on the swimming. your legs will be well rested on saturday.

From Carina on Wed, Sep 28, 2011 at 19:31:36 from 204.15.86.83

I am still quite embarrassed that you saw me in that class. There is a reason that I've stuck to running, because I look SO dumb doing those classes, I'm just not coordinated enough! Fun seeing you there.

Glad you gave those legs a break today, they'll thank you on Saturday when you bust out you're new marathon PR!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 easy miles on the treadmill, threw in 3 x 1/4mile strides at Marathon pace just to see if I really liked marathon pace, Seemed OK.  If nothing terrible happens, like stomach issues or leg cramps I think I'm golden.  Feeling really pretty good,  don't want to jinx myself but I'm not superstitious.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.000.000.000.003.00

Swim Miles: 0.30Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 3.00
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Sep 30, 2011 at 18:08:50 from 204.15.86.83

Ready to rock!! Go do what you are trained to do! You've waited so long for this, and you are going to do so well!!

Race: St. George Marathon (26.2 Miles) 03:02:30
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.2018.000.000.0026.20

Epic Failure,  I'm embarrassed to even be typing this and pretty much feel like I've wasted the last 2.5 years of my life.  I might feel a little better after the deliria is gone but I'm in pretty bad shape at this time.

Here is the worst of it, I felt great at the start line, never had stomach issues, never had cramping, in fact at mile 15 I remember thinking to myself how great my legs felt and I could go forever.  Well I couldn't, as soon as the sun hit me I instantly fell apart, by mile 18 I couldn't even run in a straight line, or think straight.  I fell in to a vicious cycle of trying to stay hydrated and fueled and keeping it all down. Every time I drank or ate anything it was on the side of the road within 5 minutes.  To tell the truth I really don't even remember how I eventually got to the finish line, I would have got in the sag wagon at any minute but it never came so I just kept going.  Not even joking, this was probably the closest near death experience I have ever experienced, it really wasn't even safe for me to keep going.  Absolutely miserable ride home, my wife had to quickly pull off to the side of the road a number of time for me to throw up on the side of the road. 

I hope this wasn't to over dramatic, maybe I should have waited a day to write something.

I may do real splits someday, but for now I'll put what I remember

5K - 17:55

10 Mile - 1:00:00 flat ( I was very happy about that one.)

1/2 way - 1:20:20 (On track, just need to negative split)

20 Mile - 2:03:?? (Still on track for a 2:40 but fading fast)

26.2 - 3:02:57 (almost 1 hour to go 6.2 miles)

I really do think I'm going to take a good long break, especially from the Marathon,  maybe 1/2's are more up my ally.

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 26.20
Comments
From jtshad on Sat, Oct 01, 2011 at 22:54:13 from 74.211.5.19

Sorry about the bad experience today, but take solace in the fact that you finished a tough race today.

It is just one race and there will be others, but I know the disappointment is tough right now. Hang tough and know that you can recover from this race.

From Carina on Sat, Oct 01, 2011 at 23:06:29 from 204.15.86.83

Seriously it was like 70 at the start line! I can't believe you still pulled out a 3:02 with all the stomach issues. Really, it is just one race and you've shown that you are a great runner, don't be too down!!

From Steam8 on Sat, Oct 01, 2011 at 23:18:05 from 166.70.55.77

WOW...3:02 is no epic failure! That is an amazing time!!!

I am so sorry that you had such a bad race! The heat really got to everyone today. This would have been my nephew's 5 marathon and he pulled out at mile 21 with stomach cramps and dizziness.....he said it was the worst running experience ever. He said everyone was vomiting and the wagon was full. They told him that he really shouldn't keep going, he couldn't walk in a straight line. I hope you recover and are okay. That really must have been hard on your body.

From Jon on Sat, Oct 01, 2011 at 23:35:41 from 74.177.125.83

Sorry about your bad race. Give it a few days, and I'm sure you will relax a bit and won't consider it a complete failure. Running in the heat, in particular, can really wreak stomach issues and mess up people's races.

From RAD on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 00:43:06 from 74.120.32.192

I think we were running in parallel worlds...an hour apart.

I feel your pain, oh do I feel it! What happened today? Seriously? What was in the water?!?

From Kory on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 01:40:12 from 184.155.137.220

The positive side is you were fit to PR... so you can look at it that way. The sun/heat can instantly do tricky things to the body. Maybe it was just a hydration issue. I wouldn't down the fitness but maybe just a bad heat day.

From Lily on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 02:25:13 from 67.199.178.210

Rob it was rough, but you still did super awesome. Good to see you today! :)

From Rob on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 11:18:00 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks everyone for the comments, I wasn't even going to post a race report for this one but I'm very glad I did now. This Blog is really great for making you feel better when your down.

I have no idea why I have such a problem with heat exhaustion, it's been a problem ever since I was a kid, I used to think it was just cause I was over weight.

I lost 12 lbs from the start of the race to the finish yesterday. Not real healthy!

From Bernhisel on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 16:04:14 from 71.38.230.147

Find the silver & count your blessings not your failures. No one loves you any less because you didn't reach your goal. I'd love to trade you times. Maybe some year.

From Seth on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 17:31:53 from 67.177.36.131

Hang in there man! Sounds like conditions were tuff for this race and you didn't quit. Your past entries seem like you've been enjoyin running and staying fit, so try not to base everything you've done on this one race!

From Kelli on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 19:55:13 from 71.219.83.151

WOW, sorry. Puking is not fun.

I hope you are feeling better. Bummer about the race, but not epic failure, just a really bad day.

From Superfly on Sun, Oct 02, 2011 at 20:29:46 from 74.211.21.81

Dude! You had a day and a half. It's what us STG guys call "making some memories". So sorry it went so bad at the end. Running in the heat IS the worst culprit for having a bad race. Yesterday we had heat and a headwind during the last 10 miles. I knew things would get ugly with the way the temps have stayed high. Then Friday nights cloud cover just made it even worse. You ran up to mile 20 but by then the damage was already done. My race last year here at STG went almost just like yours. I was like a frog slowly cooking in water and by the time I was boiling it was way too late.

Anyways don't be hard on yourself. You'll run another race and you'll hit your goals. The hard part is we just can't control the conditions. I've ran STG 7 times and only 3 of the times were super for trying to PR. Every other race will be the same. Take a good rest, and recover from this one... then sign up for something else. I guess that's what we do.

From Kurt on Mon, Oct 03, 2011 at 00:25:15 from 174.52.144.102

When I ran in the Jr National championships for the 10K, it was at 11 pm, 99 degrees and 100% humidity. I had been training in the cool Utah weather all year only to step into a sauna to run the race of my life. It was so humid that you couldn’t see from one side of the track to the other. The stadium lights looked like a night club in the fog. I suffered heatstroke in the race, resulting in a horrible performance. I completely believe you when you say it was a near death experience. I know how it feels to have a race go south on you after putting in so much work. But I would rather have a race go to the dogs due to the circumstances than wuss out. There was nothing you could have done to make a better time, and that is very respectable.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Post Marathon identity crisis day 1. 

45 minutes on the elliptical followed by 30 minutes of aimlessly wondering around the gym doing random exercises.

I'm not really sore at all, which is nice but pretty lame.  I mean really, who walks normal 2 days after a downhill marathon?

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 5.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Oct 03, 2011 at 21:52:37 from 204.15.86.83

LOL, I didn't mean to laugh, but I just had a mental picture of you wandering around the gym not knowing what to do with yourself and I have to admit it made me giggle. I have felt that way for the last few weeks myself. Keep your chin up, no one thinks you are any less of a runner because you had a disappointing race. In fact I still envy your time.

From Rob on Tue, Oct 04, 2011 at 00:05:17 from 204.15.86.95

You just say that cause you don't live with her!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.002.000.000.007.00

7 miles in 50 minutes 7:15 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.002.000.000.009.00

Progressive run 9 miles in 57:25  6:22 avg pace.

No, I'm not an electrician, and no I don't work for a moving company but somehow between just my wife and I we moved an 800 lb hot tub into our backyard, ran electrical to it and had it to temperature and ready for a nice relaxing soak by 9:00pm last night.  This winter just got that much better already.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Andrea on Wed, Oct 05, 2011 at 16:06:07 from 72.37.244.100

I think we need to become better friends...

From Rob on Wed, Oct 05, 2011 at 16:14:18 from 206.71.84.68

You and Jake can come on over for a hot tub party anytime.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.002.002.000.008.00

8 speedy miles in 49:30 6:11 avg pace

Now off to a crazy long work week in the wonderful city of Salt Lake.  I'm staying at the Salt Lake Downtown Marriott all week, 20 minutes away from my house.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Burt on Thu, Oct 06, 2011 at 14:07:31 from 68.14.209.26

Staying at the Marriott? How are you going to enjoy your hot tub if you're at the Marriott?

From Rob on Thu, Oct 06, 2011 at 14:16:26 from 72.254.34.223

The Marriott has a hot tub too.

From Burt on Thu, Oct 06, 2011 at 14:17:18 from 68.14.209.26

It's just not the same, though.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Hope I'm not coming down with something, went to bed at 8:00 slept in till 5:30 and still felt like it was just an elliptical trainer day.

30 minutes on the hotel elliptical 15 minutes of weights now off to work.

I've stayed in a lot of cities and I'd have to say Salt Lake is one of the stranger ones.  I went walking around looking for dinner at 7:00 last night and the place is a ghost town, I don't even see how businesses stay open here. 

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 4.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Oct 07, 2011 at 09:16:11 from 24.10.191.18

yes, salt lake city is weird.

it looks like your recovery is going well so far this week with some solid running days and good cross training.

i'm jealous of your hot tub.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

12 miles in 1:17:54 avg pace 6:29.

Had a mini St. George like crash at around mile 10 and had to slow down, that must mean I'm not as recovered as I thought I was.

now another busy work day, I work to much.

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 12.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.002.000.000.005.00

5 miles in 32:30, I was going to do a 5 mile tempo run but junk food all day yesterday limited it to 2.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.003.000.000.009.00

9 miles in 57:55 on the hotel treadmill  6:26 avg pace. 

 I tried to go home last night but people kept calling me so I had to stay at the hotel again.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Crappy day at work yesterday, crappy night sleep last night, crappy 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer in the hotel gym. 

I was just peddling along on the elliptical trainer at 5:00 am, when all of a sudden I had an "Ah Hah" moment, ran upstairs took a quick shower, got dressed, ran over to the Salt Palace and fixed all lifes problems before the day even got started.  Hopefully today goes much better.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.002.000.000.009.00

9 mile progressive in 58:12  6:28 avg pace.

The point of these runs is to get faster, but I seem to end up just doing the same run every morning.  I  get to that 6:00 pace and start feeling sick and can't force myself to go any faster.  I need to eat better and get a job with less stress I think.  

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Carina on Wed, Oct 12, 2011 at 09:53:26 from 204.15.86.83

I can't believe how much you can run on the treadmill. I just can't stand it for that long!!

From Rob on Wed, Oct 12, 2011 at 10:14:14 from 72.254.10.191

It's one of the advantages to being crazy.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.002.003.000.007.00

A bit more aggressive progressive run than normal.  Started at 7:00 pace and bumped it up .2 mph every 1/2 mile, ended at 5:20 pace for the final 1/2.  Funny how the Wendys frosty from last night seems to know exactly when I hit 6:00 pace.

 7 miles in 43:10  6:09 avg.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 7.00
Comments
From RAD on Thu, Oct 13, 2011 at 16:50:23 from 76.27.16.189

ahhh, how running helps those 'tummy' issues :)

Nice job hitting it hard with the run. I think all of us SGMers that didn't quite end up where we expected to are hitting the ground running (haha) this week, trying to redeem our brains from the places they ended up a couple weeks ago. Well, maybe I'm just speaking for myself :)

From allie on Thu, Oct 13, 2011 at 21:39:07 from 24.10.191.18

nice aggressive progressive!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.001.000.000.008.00

8 miles in 54:42 6:50 avg pace,  Ran slow until some guy decided to come and race me on the treadmill next to me.  I'm pretty sure I won.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.003.002.000.009.00

Guess what I did this morning?  Yep, a 9 mile progressive run.  Started at 6:40 pace instead of 7:00 bumped it up .1 mph every 1/2, finished at 5:30 pace.  When I hit 9 miles right at 55 minutes I thought to myself, "all I need to do it run 1 mile in 5 to go 10 in 1 hour" then I thought "nah, that ain't happening" and pushed the big red button.

9 miles in 55:00 6:06 avg pace.

The finish line for the SoJo marathon was setting up right across the street from Lifetime this morning.  I thought, boy that would have been nice, I could have finished the race and came across the street and took a shower and sat in the hot tub.  I'm pretty upset I didn't just run the SoJo with Kurt today instead of St. George but instead I'm sitting at the airport waiting for a plane to fly me to San Francisco.  On the plus side this is my bi-annual trip where I get to run on my favorite trail.  Sawyer Camp trail, so I'm pretty excited about that.  Last time I ran it I had a stress fracture and didn't enjoy it at all.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Kurt on Sun, Oct 16, 2011 at 00:56:55 from 174.52.144.102

Wow Rob! You are putting in some super strong runs! Enjoy your trip and trail runs. It sound great.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.004.000.000.0010.00

10 miles on my favorite trail in the United States,  Sawyer Camp trail it's in the hills between SFO airport and Half Moon bay and runs through a game preserve.  Perfect temperature 60 degrees with a cool mist coming off the lake.

It's a bit spooky early in the morning, like Halloween spooky.  The weird thing is the deer aren't afraid of people, so you'll be running along and all of a sudden there will be a deer standing 5 feet away and not even move.  Kind of freaks you out.

Great run, it makes my least favorite job just a little bit easier.

10 miles in 1:06:40  6:40 avg pace.  Slow in the dark going out and then I kind of turned on the after burners for a few mile coming back.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From jtshad on Mon, Oct 17, 2011 at 15:52:12 from 204.134.132.225

I just hope they don't charge you like that guy in the YouTube video on the mountain bike who was broad-sided by a charging buck!

From Rob on Mon, Oct 17, 2011 at 19:53:03 from 72.254.40.146

I was more worried about the things that eat the deer than the actual deer.

Are you going to be at Just Cuz? I told Lance I'll be there so I guess I'll be there. It's the only free thing I've ever got from running so I might as well take it. Even if it costs me $50 in gas and $150 hotel room :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.003.000.000.006.00

Late night working last night, early morning this morning so I didn't have time to make it to my trail, which meant a really hot miserable quick run on the stuffy hotel treadmill.  Blah!!

6 miles in 37:05 6:10 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

9 miles on the Sawyer camp trail before finally going home, Dragged my co-worker Jeff out of bed to go with me. I ran 2 slow with him and then went off ahead. ran out to the 4.5 mile marker and turned around. I really would have liked to go the entire length but was short on time.

It was a perfect morning once again, actually had to dodge around a deer that was just standing in the middle of the trail and had no intention of getting out of my way. Geez, share the trail deer.

9 miles in 1:03:? 7:04 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Ahhh! I needed that. I've worked the last 16 days straight, no days off, so this morning I slept in till 6:00, went hot tubing with my wife, waited for it to get light outside and went for a nice slow run on my original 10 mile route from back when 10 miles was my long run. The entire route is under construction so I had to deal with a few big trucks but the hard packed road base was a perfect running surface.

Nice cool morning, beautiful views of the mountains and the leaves. Now this is running weather.

The only other thing I have planned today is to go read Piggy Pie to my 4 year olds pre-school class, other than that I'm going to do a whole lot of sittin' around.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Lily on Wed, Oct 19, 2011 at 12:01:51 from 67.199.178.210

Yay for a good run!

From allie on Wed, Oct 19, 2011 at 16:54:15 from 24.10.191.18

nice running, rob. enjoy your day off!

From Rob on Thu, Oct 20, 2011 at 10:31:58 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks guys. It was a nice day off but not quite as relaxing as I'd hoped. Is it really ever?

My wife made me dress up as a Witch to read Piggie Pie.

From jtshad on Sat, Oct 22, 2011 at 12:36:24 from 69.20.183.178

Gotta have a few days like these!

Nice job with the kids, lots of fun.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.001.009.00

Had a really hard time getting into it this morning, just felt tired and blah! After 7 miles I decided to shake the lead out and do some intervals. Did 10 X 0.1 miles sprints with .1 rest. Started at 13.1mph 13.2.... up to 14 mph for the last one.

Felt a little better after that and some stretching.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Lily on Thu, Oct 20, 2011 at 10:33:37 from 67.199.178.210

Ya for sprinting! :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.002.003.000.009.00

9 mile progressive run in 54:56 avg pace 6:06. 

Started at 6:40 pace ended at 5:28 pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.002.000.000.0015.00

So the plan this morning was to go on a nice little family outing, packed up the car with bikes and stroller and drove down to Willow Park with the whole family, Britt pushed Zach in the stroller, Ethan's furthest bike ride was 2 miles before today so he stayed with Britt and Zach and Bradin and I went off ahead.  We headed South on the trail, Bradin and I went out to the Lake and turned around, on the way back I had him pace me at a just sub 6:00 pace for about 2 miles, it was very cold this morning so things were a little bit tight and achy.  When we got back to Willow Park Britt and the kids were already in the car trying to warm up, Bradin wimped out on me and got in the car too.  They asked if they should meet me at Maverik and I told them no I'd just run home.  I forgot how far home it was, and how big of a hill I live on so the last 4 miles of the run were pretty brutal.  My easy 12 mile run with the family turned into a pretty hard 15 miler, felt more like 22 honestly, with all the short fast runs I've done lately 15 felt like eternity.

Pretty happy to get it done, I'm really quite sore in places I didn't know I was sore, the cold and the hills really brought it out.

15 miles in 1:47:30  7:10 avg pace.

This was a really fun week of running, never felt like I over did it, I'm not following a schedule or anything, I just kind of did what my body felt like doing every morning.  That's probably how most of you already are but it's kind of a new concept to me.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.00
Comments
From allie on Sat, Oct 22, 2011 at 13:59:57 from 24.10.191.18

nice run to end a great week for you. i'm glad you are just enjoying running right now and not worrying about a schedule, training, etc. i think it's really important to do every now and then -- very refreshing!

From RAD on Sat, Oct 22, 2011 at 15:10:40 from 98.202.23.178

I'm glad a 15 feels like a 22 to you this week. Makes me not feel like such a pansy. My 13.5 yesterday was tough, I'd forgotten how the hills around home kill me on the WAY home.

Sounds like a good fun run with the family! How fun to keep up with your son on a bike, that should show him just how awesome his dad is!!

From Rob on Sat, Oct 22, 2011 at 15:31:06 from 204.15.86.95

Kids on bikes make very good pacers surprisingly. 9 year old boys love numbers, at least mine does.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.000.006.000.009.00

I wanted to do a really hard run today, I was up late last night and couldn't sleep so when I got to the gym my mind just twasent in the game. I did a 2 mile slow warm up then I accidentally pulled the emergency stop magnet and staled the treadmill.  When I started back up I decided to just go for it,  I put the treadmill at 1.5% decline and speed at 10.5 mph,  bumped the speed up every 1/2 mile but by the time I got to 5:30 pace I was feeling pretty pukey.  Slowed it back down to 5:40 pace which seemed sustainable, not comfortable, just sustainable.  Ran 6 like this then did a 1 mile cool down.

6 miles in 34:04 5:40 avg pace

So the reason I was up late is cause Walter got me a spot as a 1:40 pacer for the Halloween 1/2 this weekend.  I'm very excited about it,  I was up late coming up with a pacing plan, and putting a list of Halloween jokes to tell at each mile.  So if you're running the Halloween 1/2 and want to do it in 1:35, you should slow down a bit and run with my group cause it's going to be fun.  I've never paced before so I'm not sure how it will go, but I plan on doing a really good job :)  It should be a lot of fun to run a race at a pace I know I wont crash at.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Lily on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 10:14:01 from 67.199.178.210

Darn that emergency stop button. I've done this probably hundreds of times.

Your pacing plan sounds fun. I love that race so have a great time Rob!

From Andrea on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 11:43:45 from 72.37.171.52

Haha what a great excuse for staying up late! I almost wish I was running it just so I could hear some awesome jokes.

Nice tempo run! I hate it when I hit the emergency stop, but I usually get so frustrated that I just quit. Probably a good thing that I don't run on the treadmill much for training!

From Rob on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 14:28:52 from 206.71.84.68

I'll post the jokes in my race report!

From Andrea on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 15:56:19 from 72.37.171.52

I think I convinced my PT to run in your pace group. I told him you were going to be really funny. Don't let me down! :)

From Rob on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 16:27:14 from 206.71.84.68

Seriously?? That is just way to much pressure. I'm not a very funny person, you should probably go try and get a refund...

I'll be thrilled to have you in my group though, my main goal is to have a cooler pace group than Allie and James.

From Rob on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 21:30:33 from 204.15.86.95

So, Lily. Are you not running the Halloween 1/2 this year?

From Lily on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 22:53:05 from 67.199.178.210

Rob I'm not. I lost both my big toenails there last year, and I just don't want to go through that again this year. It hurt and my toes looked hideous all winter.

From Andrea on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 22:56:53 from 67.177.21.60

Rob - I meant my physical therapist is running the half! haha

I don't think running a super-downhill race would be a good idea right now, right before the marathon!

From Rob on Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 23:30:11 from 204.15.86.95

:), Funny Andrea, that comment still could go either way.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Decided to give my legs a break.  32 laps in the pool, 30 minutes of weights.

For some reason it felt like I was swimming in a big pool of honey, to bad it didn't taste like it.

Swim Miles: 1.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.003.000.000.009.00

Just great! yesterday afternoon I started feeling a head cold coming on, you know that feeling when you know its coming and it's coming fast and there is nothing you can do about it except start drinking Emergen-C by the gallon.  So all night I had a hard time sleeping with a stuffy head, got up went to the gym and just decided to ignore it and try and sweat it out. Probably not a great idea but seriously, is anything I do in my training a good idea?  I run most of my miles at close to marathon pace in a pair of holy shoes with over 1500 miles on them and then I go sit in the hot tub after every run.  Running hard with a head cold is the least of my worries.  Anyway I think It actually worked, I feel much better now.  Now lets see how the rest of the day goes.

 9 miles in 57:50 6:25 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Chad on Wed, Oct 26, 2011 at 14:10:09 from 168.177.153.27

Way to show that cold who's boss.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Hummm??  Well that was weird.  The first time in years I can remember that I un-intentionally slept in to the point where I just didn't have time to do anything except get ready for work.  Some how my alarm got turned off and I just slept the morning away.  Usually I don't need an alarm anyway, Oh Well, I don't feel to bad about it, it's the first decent night sleep I've had in days so my body must be telling me something.  I still have a bit of a cold, but not even as bad as yesterday morning.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

This stupid cold is kickin' my butt.  I hope it doesn't take away from having a good time tomorrow, I'm not worried about running my pace, but I am worried about people being able to hear my jokes.  After my run this morning I went up to a couple to ask if they were running the Halloween Half tomorrow, they were the first people I had talked to all morning so when I tried to speak I realized nothing was coming out of my mouth.  They looked at me really stupid, and said "What?"  I've never talked to them before so it was kind of embarrassing.  I apologized for my lack of communication skills and went off to do some stretching on my own.

 8 miles in 56:18  7:02 avg pace.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From RAD on Fri, Oct 28, 2011 at 13:49:54 from 98.202.23.178

a ruined conversation is the worst.

Nice job on the miles and I hope to catch you tonight at the expo or tomorrow at the race! What time are you pacing?

From Rob on Fri, Oct 28, 2011 at 14:01:12 from 206.71.84.68

I'm pacing the 1:40.

Race: Halloween Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) 01:40:21
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

So about a week ago I saw that Walter Brown was organizing the pace groups for the Halloween Half, I just commented that it sounded fun, he responded back and told me there was a 1:40 spot available if I was interested.  I was very excited about it, it’s been a life long dream of mine to be a pacer in a race.  Well maybe not a life long dream but once I thought it would be pretty cool to be able to run fast enough that one day someone would ask me to run slower. 

My wife was pretty adamant I not run this race so when the opportunity came up to run it for free I couldn’t pass it up, not that it changed her decision but I did it anyway.

 

I called Walter one night and asked if he thought it would be better to pace it at a flat 7:38/mile pace or run it course appropriate, since the first 5 miles are so steep.  I thought it was a fair question to ask and before I knew it I was in charge of setting up the pacing chart for all of the pacers.  Lucky for me I had just spent oodles of time making up race pace templates for the St George marathon and had some experience in the subject.  I came up with what I thought was a pretty good formula for the course, plugged in the times from 1:30 – 3:00 pace and they all seemed to be pretty reasonable.  That was the easier part, he then asked if I knew where to get wrist bands, I told him I’d figure that out as well.  I found a local place that sold waterproof, tear resistant paper (not easy) and found some great double sided sticky tape (too great according to Allie) had my kids wear them for 2 days straight and taking baths with them to make sure they could handle the harsh conditions of a ½ marathon.

I’m not going to get into all the craziness and drama of the actual race politics, and packet pickup.  I’m sure you will hear about all that in other peoples reports.

 

Slept in the basement last night so my wife wouldn’t keep me awake, and vis-versa, woke up at 4:00am, drove to the finish line, instead of the University Mall where the bus pickup was and parked there.  I jogged the 2.5 miles to the Mall, it was quite pleasant to get a nice cool run in.  Got on the second to first bus and went for a really long bus ride to the start line.  Again I wont go into details but the bus ended up going all the way to the top of the Alpine loop to turn around so we were on the bus for 2 hours.  Actually quite nice, sitting on a nice warm tour bus instead of a cold stuffy tent.

Race started pretty on time, about 9:10.  I figured it would much later with the bus issues, I lined up with my other 1:40 pacers, forgot the full names, sorry, Andy and someone rallied our troops and off we went.  Pretty congested at the start, I thought hitting mile 1 on pace would be hard, but we ended up pretty good.  I warned everyone that I was going to tell a Halloween Joke every mile so they could decide if they wanted to run with me or not.

First number is my actual split, second is what my pace calculator said to do it in.

 

Mile 1=  7:19   7:21

Why don't monsters eat clowns?

Because they taste funny.

 

Mile 2=  7:11   7:20

What happens when a ghost gets lost in the fog?

He is mist.

 

Mile 3=  6:57   7:09

What kind of street does a ghost like to run on?

A dead end.

 

Mile 4= 7:10   7:06

Why didn't the skeleton go to the halloween party?

Because he had no body to go with.

 

Mile 5= 7:29   7:25

Who does a ghost fall in love with?

His ghoul friend.

 

Mile 6= 7:56   8:01

Who are some of the werewolves cousins?

The whatwolves and the whenwolves.

 

Mile 7=   7:57   8:08

How does a witch tell time?

She looks at her witch watch.

 

Mile 8=   7:51   7:51

Where can you see a real ugly monster?

In the mirror.

 

Mile 9=   7:35   7:36

What do they teach in witching school?

Spelling.

 

Mile 10=   7:41   7:52

How do mummies hide?

They wear masking tape.

 

Mile 11=   7:50   7:45

What is in a ghost's nose?

Boogers

 

Mile 12=   7:55   7:50

Why did the ghost go into the bar?

For the Boos.

 

Mile 13= 8:41   7:48

What did Dracula say after hearing all these jokes?

They suck!

 

Mile 13.1= :57   :47

Total 1:40:21

 

At mile 12 we realized we were about 1 minute off pace,  we told everyone still in our group to sprint ahead and go for it, we then slowed we down and tried to motivate people behind us to hurry up and beat us and they could still beat 1:40.  When I hit the 13 mile mark my watch already said 1:40, I couldn't figure out how that happened and sped up to try and get in within the 1:40 mark.  (Markers were a bit off the whole way but no big deal)

 

This was truly one of the best running experiences I have ever had, I think I learned a lot about me, and just running in general.  It was very interesting to run a race course correctly.  I will totally do this again someday if I get the chance.  Thanks Walter for the opportunity, I made some great new friends today.

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 16.00
Comments
From Burt on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 17:43:06 from 72.223.91.148

Great job Rob. Maybe you can give allie some pointers on telling jokes.

From rAtTLeTrAp on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 18:17:23 from 24.22.239.183

Burt - I think he bought all those at the maverick.

From Burt on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 18:22:33 from 72.223.91.148

*like*

From Rob on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 18:23:31 from 204.15.86.95

That took me a minute to get,

Allie is the one that gave me the idea to come prepared with pre-loaded jokes:)

From leslie peterson on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 20:47:27 from 71.195.193.128

Fun Report! Loved the jokes! Nice job!

From Teena Marie on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 21:03:30 from 174.27.200.245

FUN!!!! :)

Seriously, I want to run in a group that you pace one day! :)

Jokes 6,8, and 11 are AWESOME!!! :)

Congrats on the whole experience. :) :) :)

From RAD on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 21:41:43 from 98.202.23.178

I had no idea you came up with the pace chart! I was wondering who was smart enough to do that and that it was PERFECT for the course. Seriously perfect. All paces felt even effort, darn course was .1 long, so we were at 1:50:40, but at 13.1 my watch said 1:50:02 - so they really were nice splits. Thanks for all your hard work. I had a good time too!!!

From Andrea on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 21:44:05 from 67.177.21.60

Corny, but cute, jokes! :)

From Rob on Sat, Oct 29, 2011 at 22:43:10 from 204.15.86.95

Nice Job Rachel, it seems all of us are showing the course a tad long. I liked where they tried to fix it in the parking lot though, better than running back up the canyon like in Provo river half.

Andrea, I had better jokes but thought the one liners would be better than story type in a race. People were obviously sick of them by mile 10, but I keptm coming.

Teena, I'll be sure and post any future pacing in advance. My monster in the mirror joke got the most "boo's,". Pun kind of intended.

From allie on Sun, Oct 30, 2011 at 00:57:45 from 24.10.191.18

i'm glad you had such a good experience, rob. pacing is fun, eh? i am also glad that you came prepared with jokes. james and i tried out a few, but they were mostly received by moans or silence (typical for us).

thanks for making the pace bands -- they were right on and they were very helpful.

it was nice seeing you again this morning. let's get that new years day freeze fest run planned...

From Walter on Sun, Oct 30, 2011 at 12:25:55 from 24.2.69.110

Rob! You are the course tool hero! It seriously was right on for the pacers! Dude, everyone came in right on time and had tons of compliments from runners coming up to me thanking me for your hard work! We really proved Luke Wagner wrong and he won't ever be pacing for me or the race ever. The Course Tool Works! I want to thank you for your help! You will be helping me more I hope for his future races. Tell your wife that I really appreciate that and sorry for pulling you away. I'll make it up to you I promise.

From Kelli on Sun, Oct 30, 2011 at 22:17:08 from 71.219.90.3

GREAT job on those pace bands, they were awesome to have. i do not think I could have paced well without them at all. We had people call us liars (referring to our pace time) at the start because we were going so "slow" down the hills, so it was great when we passed them later!

From Rob on Sun, Oct 30, 2011 at 22:44:15 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks Walter, I'll be happy to help out again.

Kelli, that was a big eye opener for me, you always hear that it's better to run a consistent pace but it's always a leap of faith to actually do it. I had two girls in my group that really wanted a 1:40, I told them to just stay with me and I promised they would get it. So it was way cool when they stayed with me the whole time and we started passing people at mile 8 that went out to fast. They both stayed with me and then broke away at mile 12 with enough energy to beat their goal. I had both of them come thank me afterward. And they both liked my jokes.

From Kelli on Sun, Oct 30, 2011 at 22:49:57 from 71.219.90.3

Great jokes. We entertained by arguing over whose Garmin was right---amazing how 4 of us had such different paces and distances going on! I was the most vocal, so I won the battle. Seriously, though, those pace bands worked like a charm. We had quite a few split off towards the end with energy to spare as well, which was very cool. NICELY DONE! Next time I pace, I will have to get you to help me make my own pace bands. Guessing is much harder.

From Rob on Mon, Oct 31, 2011 at 14:07:54 from 206.71.84.68

I looked up my time and it said 2:02, I thought that was odd, then I noticed the bib number wasn't right. It had me as 5088, I was pretty sure my number was 5008, so I looked up 5008 and Erica Allan had a time of 1:40:25. O'well, it doesn't matter so much to me, I'm sure Erica is very happy about it.

From Smooth on Mon, Oct 31, 2011 at 23:08:43 from 174.27.193.64

A+ for making the pace bands! :)

A++ for helping others get their goal tines!! :) :)

A+++ for the Halloween jokes!!! LOVE IT!!! :) :) :)

You are WAY AWESOME!!!! :) :) :) :)

From Rob on Tue, Nov 01, 2011 at 09:49:58 from 206.71.84.68

Thanks Smooth!!

A+++++ for thinking I'm Awesome,

C- for accuracy.

From Tara on Tue, Nov 01, 2011 at 13:17:19 from 75.169.156.160

So how did you come up with the paces for this race? That is likely a complicated question. Any tips for me to do it myself for next races? Hills do make a diff!

From Rob on Tue, Nov 01, 2011 at 15:26:30 from 206.71.84.68

Tara, I made an excel spreadsheet that makes it real easy to just plug the times in and print out bands. But for just you, use the course tool from this site, it's much easier than what I went through and comes out about the same.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

Apparently that hill is really steep no matter how fast or slow you go down it.  My legs really hurt this morning.  I hope they get better by Saturday.

30 minutes on the elliptical, 10 minutes of talking to Riverton Paul in his super cool 70's soccer player outfit and then 30 minutes on the treadmill.  I was going to get pictures of Paul working out but figured he should post his own pictures.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 4.00Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Some soreness lingering but worked itself out after about 1 mile, my main problem is this stupid cold.  I just can't seem to shake it.

8 miles in 53:20 6:39 avg pace.

So I take Fish Oil, Glucosamine, Emergen-C, Calcium (since my stress fracture) and sometimes Iron on a daily basis.  I swear by some, not sure about others but they seemed to be a good idea.  Well here is a website that actually shows scientific evidence of whether or not supplements actually do anything.  Kind of interesting.

 http://www.informationisbeautiful.net/play/snake-oil-supplements/

Have you ever thought to yourself "Man, that Rob guy has a sweet job,  I wish I had his job?"  Well, my boss finally realized that I am in way over my head and has approved another one of me.  Here is the job listing if you're interested.

http://jobview.monster.com/Network-Engineer-Job-Salt-Lake-City-UT-US-103557819.aspx

 


Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Marlin on Tue, Nov 01, 2011 at 20:08:20 from 75.174.16.111

Rob, I sure hope you can shake that cold and are able to make it to the Just Cuz Half, it would be great to meet you finally. Temps will be around the mid 30's for a high they say.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.001.000.008.00

Seems my little downhill jaunt jacked up my right leg a bit, I just can't seem to get normal again. 6 miles slow then I finished off with 10 x .1's with .1 rest.  Started at 12.1,12.2 .... 13mph.

8 miles in 54:55 6:51 avg pace.

Saturdays race looks awfully cold, Pretty sure I wont be able to blame a bad performance on heat exhaustion.


Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 8.00
Comments
From allie on Wed, Nov 02, 2011 at 09:47:28 from 161.38.218.168

yes, saturday looks like a nasty day for racing. but it will be fun!

hope your leg is OK...

From Carina on Wed, Nov 02, 2011 at 15:52:57 from 204.15.86.83

That does not look like an easy paced run to me! Give your leg some time and I'm sure it will be ok.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Decided to swim this morning,  I really dread that initial freezing cold plunge into the pool, that .5 seconds of misery is enough to make me not want to swim most mornings.  It turned out to be a really great idea, I thoroughly enjoyed my swim, it cleared my mind and my leg feels 97.3% better, still a little bit sore right behind my right knee.

Just found out I may be taking a few last minute trips this year before Christmas, first to Sao Paulo Brazil, never been to South America so I'm pretty stoked about that one, and then to Prauge, Czech Republic, sounds cold in December but looks like an awesome place.

There is still an opening at my work :)

 http://jobview.monster.com/Network-Engineer-Job-Salt-Lake-City-UT-US-103557819.aspx

Swim Miles: 1.00
Comments
From jtshad on Thu, Nov 03, 2011 at 15:52:43 from 204.134.132.225

Sorry I won't be running with you at the Just Cuz.

Wow, you travel to some interesting places!

From Rob on Thu, Nov 03, 2011 at 16:12:20 from 72.254.17.228

Just found out they want me in Brazil on the 7th and Prauge on the 8th. I don't think work is willing to pay for what ever plane I'd need to take for that to happen.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.001.000.006.00

6 miles in 39:40 6:36 avg pace.  Last Mile in 5:40 just to see what it felt like.

I really don't know what to think about Just Cuz 1/2 tomorrow,  6 hour round trip drive for 1+ hours of pure torture. I would like to PR but with the weather I'm not sure it's going to be ideal, and frankly I don't have a lot of confidence in myself right now.  I'd say I'm in at least as good of shape as I was last year, I  have more experience running sub 6:00 pace for extended periods of time but I've just had so many quirky problems lately I don't know what to expect.  Plus Jeff and Rob aren't going to be there to push me, I'm just going to have to let my watch do the pushing. 

I guess we'll see, I just hope it doesn't end up being a whole lot of driving for another disappointment.

Oh, I bought some new Nike Free TR Winters, they have treads on them like snow tires and they are water resistant.  I thought tomorrows race might be in the snow, but I also wanted them for running this winter.  I wore them on the treadmill this morning for a test run and they seem fine, they don't really feel like real Free's so I'm not sure where they get off calling them Free's.

Nike Free TR Winter Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Carina on Fri, Nov 04, 2011 at 16:47:20 from 204.15.86.83

Hey, be positive, if you are making that huge trip for that race you better believe in yourself!! You're going to do great!!!!

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Nov 05, 2011 at 00:14:08 from 76.27.122.13

Good luck tomorrow Rob. Remember, this is supposed to be fun!

Race: Just Cuz 1/2 Marathon (13.1 Miles) 01:17:44, Place overall: 2, Place in age division: 1
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.0013.100.0013.10

******WARNING******  This race report contains whining and complaining, if you are offended by this type of material skip directly to Chapter 2.

 

Chapter 1:

So last year my neighbor who is from Pocatello told me about this race and said he was running it,  I thought it sounded fun since Britt was running the Halloween Half the week before and I had to be an athletic supporter for her and couldn’t run that one.  We made it a family outing, stayed in the Marriott the night before, the kids got to play in the pool, I met Rob Murphy and Jeff Shadley for the first time and got to run with them, the weather was perfect, the wife and kids had a great time in the park at the finish line and as an added bonus Rob Murphy took a wrong turn at mile 11 making it possible for me to be the overall winner.  (not complaining yet). 

 

This year we decided to do it again, since I got a free entry for winning last year.  I e-mailed the RD and told him I was coming back and he said “no problem I’ll take care of it”, I made reservations at the Marriott, planned our family outing but on Thursday the weather man changed all that, Britt decided she didn’t want to come and sit in a cold snow storm waiting for me to run, she told me to just go alone.  Since I wake up at 4:00am every morning anyway and the race didn’t start until 10:15 I just decided to drive up this morning and cancel the hotel.  (still not complaining)  Got on the road by 5:00am and drove 3 hours in a blinding blizzard, I thought about just turning around a number of times but thought, “nah, I told the RD I’d be there and I try to always keep my word”  Got to the finish line, packet pickup got out of my car and realized, I hadn’t felt 20degree temps for a while,  it was cold.   Went to get my packet and low and behold, no packet, no registration for Rob Rohde.  I explained the situation to the packet guy and he made a call (to Lance I presume) and then handed me a timing chip.  I asked him if I needed a number and he said, “nope, just the chip”  OK, “do you need my name?” he wrote it down on a piece of scrap paper and off I went to the bus.

 

Ended up with a second place finish, waited for the result to be posted, low and behold, no Rob Rohde.  I went to the timing table and explained the situation, he went through and found a “Bandit” runner chip time, with a time of 1:17:44, must be me.  Since the next person back was 1:20:00.  He told me he’d fix it, I said “do you want my name” he wrote it down on a piece of scrap paper.

 

The RD was running the race, so when he finished I went and told him what happened, and he told me “don’t worry, we’ll take care of it”  Well, when I got home he had already e-mailed out the results (actually pretty impressive) most races don’t do that for days, but low and behold, no Rob Rohde.  I suppose he still has time to make it right, but what about the poor guy that thinks he got 3rd place and really didn’t, what about the poor guy that got 2nd place (me) that there is no record for at all and apparently ran the race “Bandit”.  This is the sort of stuff that drives my wife crazy, she always asks why I spent so much time and money running races instead of just going and running 13.1 or 26.2 miles.  What is the reason?  To get the medal and see your name on a piece of paper with your PR on it.  To her point, I could have woke up at 4:00 this morning, gone to the gym, set the treadmill to -1.5% decline and speed to 10.1 and run a 1:17:44 13.1 mile run and been back home before anyone even woke up.  Instead I drove 6 hours in a snow storm to freeze my butt off and got the same results.

 

*******Complaining done!*********

 

Chapter 2:

Pretty darn good race today!!!  I was sad that Rob and Jeff weren’t going to be there, but decided to just go have a good time, I wanted to run a 1:15:?? So I made a famous paceband for the course and a 1:15:00, Marlin introduced himself to me and we rode the bus up together and had a great conversation, he is really a great guy and it was nice to find someone to talk to.  Driving the bus up to the top I realized that I should just rip off the pace band, the course was solid ice for the first 3 miles, and patchy ice for the next 3.  Oh! Forgot to mention, the race theme was “Super Hero” my costume consisted of a “The Flash” pair of underoos with a lightning bolt across the…. Well on the front.  A fairly attractive Wonder Woman came up to me at the start and looked at my Underoos, then and me and said “nice lightning bolt”  That made my day.

At the start line I overheard a kid saying he was going for a 1:14 so I hung out with him on the start line, he was wearing regular racing flats and I figured he would be a goner in the first 100 feet.  We talked it over and decided to go out slowish together, gun went off, and him and I were gone, I was surprised I wasn’t falling but seemed to find decent traction on the side of the road, he kept running and skating, I’m amazed he didn’t fall down.  We hit mile 1 in 5:30, and that was being careful, seriously ¼ of the total elevation drop for this course happens in the first mile, it’s pretty insane, especially on ice, I looked back and couldn’t see anyone else at all.  Mile 2 I proved that I can overheat even in 28 degree weather,  I slowed at the aid station just long enough to rip off my sleeves and hat,  Scott (the kid) got a small lead at that point which was fine cause I just turned on my music and went to my happy place.  Had to concentrate pretty hard through mile 6 just not to crash on the ice, then it got better, unfortunately after mile 7, this course is no longer easy.  Rolling hills and then at mile 8 out of the canyon headwind with blowing snow,  I felt good and was happy for the cold.  I actually think 30 – 35 degrees is probably my race temp.  Scott was slowly getting further away but I could always see him in range, by mile 10 I realized I was gaining on him, thought for about 30 seconds “maybe I can catch him” that was short lived cause right then a wicked headwind hit me.  Then at Mile 11 the course plays a real cruel joke and turns off the main road and goes straight up hill, Blah, I lost site of Scott and realized I didn’t have time to catch him anymore.  Never really died, I just couldn’t go any faster.

 

Finished in 1:17:44, only 8 seconds off of last year and only 20 seconds behind the winner, so I was actually closer than I thought.  Pretty darn happy actually, I know it’s easier said than done but I think without the ice at the top that today was at least a 1:15:?? effort, I’m going to call it my half marathon PR on an ice skating rink.

 

I will post splits later, I need to go to the Chilli cook off at the Church now.

 Mile Split 2010 Split

 1

 5:31 5:00
 2 5:35 5:15
 3 5:56 5:48
 4 5:55 5:47
 5 5:44 5:45
 6 5:59 5:52
 7 6:08 6:04
 8 5:48 5:54
 9 6:00 5:58
 10 6:08 6:05
 11 6:25 6:21
 12 6:35 6:26
 13 6:32 6:32
 13.1 :31 :31
 Total 1:17:44 1:17:36

Humm, those splits don't quite add up for this year.  They have me at 1:18:something.  O'well, I like the official results better.

Here is a picture at the start line, I'm the second from the left with the Red Underoo's, the guy in the blue compression socks was the winner.  Check out the ice on the road.

 

Nike Free TR Winter Miles: 13.10
Comments
From jtshad on Sat, Nov 05, 2011 at 19:46:29 from 69.20.183.178

Great time, especially considering the conditions. You ran very well, sorry about the race issues.

I am glad I didn't end up running, came down with a nasty cold today.

From Marlin on Sat, Nov 05, 2011 at 19:57:57 from 75.174.16.111

Great job Rob, it was very nice to meet you and hope to run with you again. OH by the way you are not kidding about the conditions as my post sounds the same, but just chapter 2 only haha

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Nov 05, 2011 at 20:24:46 from 76.27.122.13

Quite simply one of the best race reports I have ever read. It should be classified as literature.

Congratulations all around!

From Jake K on Sat, Nov 05, 2011 at 20:38:35 from 67.177.21.60

Nice race Rob! Not exactly ideal conditions today, making it all the more impressive.

Complimentary entries always freak me out because I get so OCD about a mistake being made by the RD, etc. I usually end up driving the person coordinating the entries NUTS until I am 110% sure I am registered. It is a bummer that they didn't have it taken care of beforehand... hopefully they will get the correct results straightened out soon.

From Rob on Sat, Nov 05, 2011 at 21:37:47 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks guys, This was my first comp'd anything so I didn't quite know what to do.

I really did miss you guys Jeff and Rob, it just wasn't the same. The cold put a damper on it too though.

Geez Rob, no one has ever told me my writing is "literature" I'm a computer guy. I'm going to track down my freshman English teacher right now and show her :)

Marlin, good meeting you today, and great job on your race.

From Smooth on Sun, Nov 06, 2011 at 00:36:49 from 75.162.83.50

CONGRATZ Rob!!! You ran an awesome race despite all the issues with the RD and the cold, icy condition and the long drive! GOOD JOB!!! The *nice lightning bolt* made me laugh! :)

From Teena Marie on Sun, Nov 06, 2011 at 09:43:27 from 74.211.26.22

Lovin' it, Flash!!! :)

A huge congratulations! :) :) :)

From Carina on Sun, Nov 06, 2011 at 10:33:34 from 204.15.86.83

WOW!! Good job on the race especially given the weather conditions. That's lame that they screwed up your registration so bad. Hopefully they'll get it sorted out. And I really think you should have worn your flash costume to the chili cook off, it sure would have made things a little more entertaining ;)

From Rob on Sun, Nov 06, 2011 at 17:19:04 from 166.205.13.42

Update... The Race Director just sent out a mass e-mail to all the participants apologizing for a few malfunctioning chips that were handed out on the last day, and specifically called me out as the overall second place finisher, and said I am welcome back again next year, Comp'd.

So technically I can now delete Chapter 1, but I'm going to leave it for it's literary content.

From allie on Sun, Nov 06, 2011 at 21:11:38 from 24.10.191.18

nice race, rob! i'm glad they got the results sorted out. i always love a race report with chapters.

hope the chili was good.

From Chad on Mon, Nov 07, 2011 at 10:59:54 from 168.177.153.27

That is extreme. Nice job. Loved the report.

From Tara on Mon, Nov 07, 2011 at 18:09:16 from 75.169.159.43

That was a great race report. I almost ran that race, but last minute decided on the Halloween half. The snow looks crazy! My friend Josie started that race, but it looks like it has turned hectic. I love that your name was written TWICE on a piece of garbage and nothing was ever done with it. Hopefully it sorts out. COngrats on the PR!

From Tara on Mon, Nov 05, 2012 at 08:46:42 from 75.169.142.155

I actually was thinking about this race report as I was heading into the race. I couldn't remember who wrote it but I wanted to re read it to get a good idea on how the race felt. Your description of the course was spot on, except we had no snow! Last years experience actually sounds like a total nightmare!! I'm assuming it all got sorted out. Lance seems to be a very nice guy, but maybe his workers were not as dedicated :-) it seems there are glitches every year for every race. what are your thoughts for running it next year? I might make it a tradition:)

From Rob on Mon, Nov 05, 2012 at 09:02:03 from 206.71.84.68

Yeah Tara, Lance actually ended up sending me a gift card in the mail a few months later so it's all good. I totally would have gone and ran it again this year but my wife had better things for me to do. I really like this race, and will go do it again for sure.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

1 hour on the elliptical and then 30 minutes of weights and stretching. I'm done hurting myself for the rest of the year.

I was thinking this morning, it sure would be nice to go to Florida this week. Then I realized, I am going to Florida this week.

My favorite quote from the New York City Marathon yesterday.

Announcer 1: "What do you think it means that Gebre is still wearing a hat at mile 18." Announcer 2: "Well, I think it means his ears are cold."

Now that is some info I can use in my next race.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.50
Comments
From Steam8 on Mon, Nov 07, 2011 at 09:27:36 from 166.70.55.77

Lucky! Enjoy that Florida weather!! I have to go out and shovel. :(

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

I've decided my whole problem in life (as far as running goes), is that I weigh to much for the intensity I'm trying to run at.  My body just breaks down, and I'm sure that's my over heating problem too.  I can't figure out how come I can't loose weight, I started running, lost 80 lbs in like 5 months but now I just can't seem to go any lower, I've been this weight for 2 years now, whether I run 50 miles a week, 90 miles a week, nothing seems to make a difference.  So now that I'm not in any sort of training mode I'm going to change it up a bit, for the next month I'm going to attempt to run really far, really slow.   Today was sort of a trial run so not as far since I am still a bit sore from Saturdays race but I'm going to test the theory that low intensity burns more fat.

See ya in a month, hopefully 10 -15 lbs lighter.

12 miles in 1:30:00  7:30 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Marlin on Tue, Nov 08, 2011 at 10:22:14 from 174.255.128.176

Rob, keep me informed as I have been at the same weight for awhile now myself. Thanks

From Andrea on Wed, Nov 09, 2011 at 11:28:35 from 72.37.244.100

Whether you are able to lose weight or not, you will have developed a nice mileage base by the end of the month and developed more endurance strength!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

This is going to be harder than I thought, more mentally than physically.  Luckily my scenery is going to change a lot over the next month.

16 long, slow, boring miles in 1:59:10 7:26 avg pace

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 16.00
Comments
From Carina on Wed, Nov 09, 2011 at 22:12:18 from 204.15.86.83

Good job, 16 miles and still a great pace!!

From allie on Wed, Nov 09, 2011 at 22:31:36 from 24.10.191.18

good job with the run today, and interesting strategy. hopefully it produces the results that you want. 7:26 is still a very good pace.

From Jeff L on Wed, Nov 09, 2011 at 22:38:46 from 74.81.227.108

I thought you were going to slow down on your runs, Rob. Nice job.

From Rob on Wed, Nov 09, 2011 at 22:41:21 from 204.15.86.95

Humm, I thought I was. Now y'all have me worried I'm still going to fast. Guess it's time to throw the HR monitor back on.

From RAD on Thu, Nov 10, 2011 at 01:26:38 from 98.202.23.178

Oh, how I long for the day that 7:26 is a SLOW pace. At least come down to 8:20 for your 'slow' to make ME feel better :)

From Jake K on Sat, Nov 12, 2011 at 23:21:07 from 67.177.21.60

Rob - I think what you are doing will pay some huge dividends for you. If I can offer you any advice, its that when you are ramping up the miles to a much higher level, you gotta just let yourself go slow. I don't even hit 7:30 pace on my easy runs (ask allie and andrea!). Have the confidence to run slow... if you stay consistent and healthy, you will be ridiculously fitter and faster in 2012.

You'll have days when you feel like junk. Just listen to your body when they happen.

Keep it up man!

From Rob on Sun, Nov 13, 2011 at 11:43:29 from 72.255.61.200

Wow! The great Jake commented on my blog. I'm honored.

I am very surprised how well my body is holding up so far with the slower pace, last time I was anywhere close to 100mpw I could barely walk but I'm actually feeling quite good. The main problem is finding that much extra time each day.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
19.000.000.000.0019.00

Long day, I woke up at 3:00am and got to the gym by 3:45 so I could get my run in before traveling to Miami.  I wore my HR monitor today to see where I'm suppose to be running for my weight loss initiative.  I think I should be between 120 - 130 bpm for best results.  Started at 8:00/mile pace for the first 7.5 miles,  Bumped up to 7:30 pace for 1.5 miles and then I realized I was running late and better hurry to get to the airport so I ran the last 3 miles at 6:20 pace.  12 miles in 1:30:46  7:34 avg pace for entire run.

Got to the airport and RAD  (Rachel) was sitting there waiting to get on my same plane, she was on her way to North Carolina to run a Marathon, I talked to her for a bit, and wished her luck.

Got to Miami, did some work, went to dinner and then I just couldn't stand it any longer I had to go for a nice run on the boardwalk along the beach.  7 more slow miles in 59:10  8:27 avg pace.  Hope all Y'all are enjoying Utah, but this 70 degrees along the beach, well, I could get used to it.

Ahh!!! What the heck?  I just went to sign up for the Ogden 1/2 and it's sold out!!! How the heck did that happen.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 19.00
Comments
From allie on Thu, Nov 10, 2011 at 21:10:50 from 24.10.191.18

seriously -- the races-selling-out-in-5- minutes thing is really annoying. really.

great job with the running today, and way to keep it nice and slow on that second run. i'm jealous of your location...

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
14.000.000.000.0014.00

I'm pretty sure running doesn't get more perfect.  65 degrees, on a flat fully lit boardwalk along the beach with a nice cool sea breeze.  It's going to be hard to leave this place.  I normally don't run shirtless, but I figure if the women can go topless here, so can I.  I woke up at 5:00 am (3:00am Utah time) to get my miles in, ran 9 miles on the boardwalk, 2 miles along the beach then I decided running in sand was going to make me hurt so I went back to the boardwalk for the final 3.

14 miles in 1:51:04  7:56 avg pace.

I wonder how well my weight loss program would sell??  "All you have to do it is run 16 to 20 miles a day and you too can burn up to 1 -2 lbs of fat per week"  For some reason it doesn't have a ring to it.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 14.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 at 07:45:58 from 24.10.191.18

it doesn't have a ring to it because it requires lots of time and hard work. :)

still jealous...

From Rob on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 at 09:19:31 from 198.228.232.212

Are you trying to talk me out of it?

This might make a nice Honeymoon destination ;). Actually I probably have better recommendations but it's an option.

From allie on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 at 12:24:34 from 161.38.218.168

i'm definitely not trying to talk you out of it -- it just wouldn't sell as a weight loss program because there are no shortcuts or magic elixirs involved.

From Rob on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 at 12:43:58 from 198.228.232.212

Ah, but that's where you are wrong. I rub the Urine of Brazilian tree frogs in my navel before every run. I don't think it has anything to do with the weight loss, but I swear by it.

From allie on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 at 12:48:59 from 161.38.218.168

i want some. how much?

From Rob on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 at 13:07:49 from 72.255.107.167

Just the price of a Brazilian tree frog.

From Rob on Fri, Nov 11, 2011 at 13:13:26 from 198.228.232.212

I'll be in Brazil in 2 weeks I'll pick up a couple extra for you.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
17.800.000.500.0018.30

There goes that pesky job of mine getting in the way of pleasure.  I was on the phone with Cisco TAC until midnight last night trying to fix a network issue.  I ended up figuring it out myself and upset that I didn't think of it 5 hours earlier.  Oh Well, all is good now.

Anyway, it ruined my double yesterday, and almost ruined my morning run except I can't ever sleep after working late on network problems so I was up at 5:00 am anyway and decided to go run.  I actually had the time to go further but decided with the lack of sleep it wasn't a great idea.  I was going to only do 12 but a little photo shoot on the beach made me need to back track.

About 6.3 miles on the sand, and 6 on the boardwalk.  Hopefully I can get out this evening for another 6 on the something.

P.M.

6 easy miles along the boardwalk after work in 48 minutes.  8:00 /mile avg pace.  Tomorrow I'm going to try and expand my Miami Beach running geography.  I've pretty much been just running back and forth on the path for 3 days, not going to say it's boring cause I know the alternative but a change would be nice.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 18.30
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
24.000.000.000.0024.00

Got 8 hours of sleep last night for the first time in quite a while so I was feeling pretty good this morning.  This was my last long run in Paradise, and it was a perfect morning once again.  Pretty much ran my normal route except when I got to the end of the beach instead of turning around I ran across the bridge to Miami.  Ran to Port of Miami where all the cruise ships leave from and then back.

5 miles on the sand, 7 on the boardwalk, 4 on the road.

16 miles in 2:07:01  7:56/mile avg pace.

P.M.

Why do so many people choose to run at night when it was clearly designed to be done in the morning?

8 long hot humid miles in the dark on the beach.  Tomorrow morning I fly home so I'm not sure how the running thing is going to work out.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 24.00
Comments
From Carina on Sun, Nov 13, 2011 at 13:49:10 from 204.15.86.83

Nice run. I love running along the ocean, not so much on sand though.

From Rob on Sun, Nov 13, 2011 at 14:25:22 from 72.255.61.200

There is a path along the beach where all the work trucks drive up and down so the sand is packed down and pretty nice to run on. It doesn't go the whole length of the beach though, that would be awesome.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.250.000.000.006.25

Sitting in the Delta Crown room waiting to leave sunny Florida and go back to reality.  Woke up early and ran a quick 6.25 miles before my flight. 

Airports need treadmills!!

6.25 in 48:44  7:48 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
19.001.000.000.0020.00

A late flight, and a wife that has different views about what I should do in my spare time than I do made it so I didn't get my afternoon run in yesterday.

15 miles on the treadmill in 1:52:52  7:31 avg pace

I got on the scale for the first time since I started this little weight loss experiment last week.  And guess what?  I didn't loose a single pound.  Seriously, I've ran 112 miles all between 7:30 and 8:00min pace in the last 7 days, haven't eaten great due to travel but it's not like I was eating at Chuck a Rama everyday and somehow I didn't loose anything.  I don't get it, what is wrong with me???

P.M.

5 miles with my 9 year old after school around the neighborhood dirt roads.  The hills and gravel roads where harder on him than I thought they would be so we were pretty slow.

5 miles in 40:54  8:11 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 5.00Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 15.00
Comments
From Fritz on Tue, Nov 15, 2011 at 20:03:47 from 65.116.116.6

Nice work on the big miles. Calories in need to be less than calories out. :)

From Rob on Tue, Nov 15, 2011 at 20:33:44 from 166.205.14.72

I know your right Fritz, but I'm seriously not eating more than when I lost 70 lbs, and back then I could pretty much count on 1 lb per day, and I could only run 5 - 8 miles per day.

From Fritz on Tue, Nov 15, 2011 at 23:30:28 from 67.182.226.25

Yeah, I think it gets progressively more difficult as you get in better shape. You become more efficient while you run, hence burning fewer calories per mile, and you probably absorb more of the food you eat because your body needs it. But what do I know.

From Jake K on Wed, Nov 16, 2011 at 10:38:03 from 155.100.226.53

In my experience, Fritz is right. The more efficient you get, the less calories you burn per mile. And your body is always expecting to go for another 15 mile run, so it starts to hold onto everything and not be wasteful.

I think its one of those things that will definitely pay off, but you are not going to have immediate results. Its going to be a longer term thing.

From Rob on Wed, Nov 16, 2011 at 11:18:13 from 206.71.84.68

I'm starting to think maybe Ultras would be my thing. I'm just to efficient :)

I'm just getting frustrated, I can't keep up with skinny young guys like you two.

Really, I'm just trying to mix things up a bit in my down time and see what my body is capable of.

From Jake K on Wed, Nov 16, 2011 at 11:20:51 from 155.100.226.53

Rob - regardless of whether you lose 1 lb or 10lbs... you stay healthy with this mileage, and you'll run faster than you ever imagined you could!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
24.000.000.000.0024.00

This is totally a new type of running to me, I've never run at a pace where I felt like I could seriously go forever without ever getting depleted.  I don't drink water or eat anything and never really feel drained.  My legs do get a little sore but seem to be recovering day to day.

16 miles in 2:04:25  7:46 avg pace

P.M.

Went to the Gym for lunch, weather was perfect for a run outside, so what did I do?  I ran on the treadmill.   Was planning on 6 but I was actually enjoying myself so much I decided to finish off the full hour.

8 miles in 1:01:10 7:38 avg pace

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 24.00
Comments
From allie on Wed, Nov 16, 2011 at 16:30:18 from 24.10.191.18

ultra time.

From Rob on Wed, Nov 16, 2011 at 17:05:08 from 72.254.10.28

Sorry allie, I don't drink.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
21.001.000.000.0022.00

Still going....

16 miles in 2:03:30, 7:43 avg pace

Guess I better get the Christmas lights up today, there's a storm a brewin'

P.M.

Hung lights all morning, almost done just need a Lowes run for a couple more things.  Broke away for a "quick" run with the dog.  First signs that I'm finally falling apart, my left knee started bugging me pretty bad for some reason, which is strange cause I've never had my knee bother me before, I've had every other problem but not the knee.  I blame it on light hanging instead of resting in between runs.

6 miles in 50:17  8:22 avg pace.  Ouch!!  That actually had to do with a very out of shape dog more than the knee.

1 more food for thought, extracting rocks out of the souls of Nike Free's is almost as good as popping bubble wrap.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 16.00
Comments
From Carina on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 at 09:56:11 from 204.15.86.83

You should come hang ours too :) Nice going on the miles!

From Rob on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 at 10:30:12 from 72.254.10.28

I hate Christmas lights, but I did it once and now it's expected.

Britt doesn't seem to understand how dangerous it is. All it takes is me slipping once and it's over.

From Jake K on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 at 10:46:28 from 155.100.226.53

Thats why you should put up your XMas decorations in August when the days are warm and long!

From Rob on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 at 10:52:28 from 72.254.10.28

Our Neighborhood has rules against crazy things like that.

From allie on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 at 16:59:40 from 161.38.218.168

i hate sore light hanging knees.

From RAD on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 at 17:10:33 from 98.202.23.178

uh huh...blame it on the dog. It's always the dog's fault! :) Nice 'slow' miles.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

Seriously I'm not sure what to make of all this, I may keep up the high mileage for another week just cause I have the week off but there is no way I could do this and have a normal work schedule.

I don't really feel like I'm getting a whole lot out of it truthfully,  I'm not really tired when I get done, I don't even sweat, and my legs have been more tired after walking around convention centers all day, and I haven't lost a single pound so I'm not really sure what to do.  Strange that 20 miles a day doesn't wear me down at all.

8 miles in 1:04:00 Then I felt like I needed a change of pace so I did the next 8 in 56:00.

16 miles in 2:00:00 7:30 avg pace.

No afternoon run today, I'm planning a little somethin' special for tomorrow morning.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 16.00
Race: Treadmill Marathon (26.2 Miles) 02:49:26, Place overall: 1, Place in age division: 1
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.0026.200.000.0026.20

Well, I think I defined a new level of crazy (or stupid) today.  This is the sort of thing that happens when you give someone like me too much idle time.  All my long runs on the treadmill this last week made me think of lots of things,  “What’s for dinner” “When should I hang my Christmas lights?”  “I wonder if I could run a full marathon on the treadmill?”  “I wonder if I could run a marathon PR on the treadmill?”  You know, those kinds of questions.

Yesterday on my run I thought about running 26 miles on Thanksgiving morning just for fun, then I thought I should just do it tomorrow since I feel good now.  It has also haunted me that my marathon PR was 2:51:30 at Des News and that was after my (at the time) biggest mileage week as a “training run”.  I can run 6:30 pace pretty easy and always think I could just run 6:30 pace forever, so why don’t I even have a marathon time to back that up?  Basically because every time I run a Marathon setting a PR by a minute or 2 never interests me, I always go out too hard, blow up and end up feeling bad for myself for weeks after.

So anyway, all this made me devise a crazy plan for this morning, wake up early go to the gym and run a PR marathon.  Wow!  Who thinks like that, especially after running by far the furthest mileage week I've ever had (not quite 140 miles this week)?  Apparently me.  I couldn’t sleep very good last night, first sign this was the real deal, I woke up and 3:30 and decided to get on with it so I headed to the gym.  I wanted to make it as honest as possible, which meant when I hit the start button on my Garmin I couldn’t hit stop until I was done, I knew I would have 2 treadmill resets, one at mile 9 and one and mile 18 (to keep the splits easier to track) and wasn’t sure how much time this would cost me.  I decided to use those 2 resets as my only “aid stations”.  I also wore my HR monitor to keep me honest from doing something crazy like, (jumping off the treadmill for a rest while it still went).  So anyway, I felt that these measures would make it honest so I could feel good about it.

Started at 9.2 mph 6:31 pace then at mile 5 I bumped it to 9.3 to try and make up for the resets, did that again at mile 14.  The resets only ended up taking about 15 seconds so not to bad.  My HR went pretty high at first and I thought maybe I wasn’t going to make it, by the first reset though I was feeling pretty good and decided I would make it.  By the second reset I was actually feeling better and better the longer I went, my HR even was dipping down a few bpm too, not sure how I got feeling better after 20 miles.  So at mile 20 when I realized this was really going to happen I kept bumping up the speed every mile thinking I wish I could finish all marathons like this.  I really wanted to break 2:50 so I pushed pretty hard the final 2 miles.

 

In many ways this was the best marathon I’ve ever done, no bathroom lines, no long bus ride, no standing in the cold, and it started right on time.  Well, 4 minutes late for one last bathroom break. 

 

Does it count as a real PR?  Who knows?  I say yes, but it’s my run and my blog so I can say whatever I want.

 

26.2 miles in 2:49:26 6:28 avg pace.   A 2:04 PR. 

 Distance Time Avg HR
 Max HR
 1 6:32 153 167
 2 6:31 160 162
 3 6:31 161 163
 4 6:32 161 163
 5 6:31 162 164
 6 6:27 162 165
 7 6:27 163 166
 8 6:27 163 165
 9 6:27 163 167
 10 6:46 162 168
 11 6:31 162 165
 12 6:31 161 164
 13 6:32 160 162
 14 6:31 159 162
 15 6:27 160 162
 16 6:29 160 162
 17 6:25 159 162
 18 6:23 160 165
 19 6:45 159 163
 20 6:31 159 161
 21 6:27 159 164
 22 6:27 158 161
 23
 6:23 158 161
 24 6:23 158 160
 25 6:19 159 162
 26 6:14 163 165
 26.2 1:06 165 167
 Total 2:49:26 160 168

 

 http://connect.garmin.com/activity/129577165

 

 


 

Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 26.20
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 11:57:01 from 204.15.86.83

You are seriously CRAZY!!! Way to go on a new marathon PR!!!

From Jon on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 12:06:57 from 98.71.177.166

So were you hitting lap on your watch each mile (per the treadmill)?

I think it counts, though treadmills are notorious for being off, so it's definitely not certified. Plus, if you can run that fast on a treadmill, you could definitely do faster when tapered in a real race with competition to push you.

Nice job, though. Do you realize most people would see this as nuts?!?

From Rob on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 12:16:09 from 204.15.86.95

Yeah, I just hit the lap button every mile. This is the same treadmill I run on everyday, I think it seems pretty accurate compared to my road effort.

Yeah, even I think it's nuts.

From Tom on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 12:25:58 from 67.199.180.90

Wow! I saw the title of your race and had to see if you actually ran a marathon on the treadmill in that time. And you did! Congrats, that takes some serious mental fortitude to handle that long and that fast on the mill! I once ran 16 on the treadmill and swore I would NEVER EVER do it again. I'll be sure and use you for inspiration on those winter days when the roads are non-runnable and I have to do the long run inside! Good job!

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 12:33:49 from 76.27.122.13

Wack job!

From Walter on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 12:38:48 from 24.2.69.110

Rob, I really want to do a half marathon or full on treadmills. I think it would be fun. We could get actual course to treadmill to run Boston in Thanksgiving.

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 12:47:56 from 76.27.122.13

Tom - mental fortitude? Try lack of brain cells.

I have nothing better to do than sit here all day and make fun of Rob

From Rob on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 12:55:56 from 204.15.86.95

Rob, my wife said you spelled "Whack" wrong :) You could try going to the gym!

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 14:28:08 from 76.27.122.13

Whack Job!!

From Marlin on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 14:58:47 from 75.174.15.108

Wow, nice run Rob - you are incredible!!!!

From Rob Murphy on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 15:36:56 from 76.27.122.13

OK, I will admit that I am impressed.How many times did you cycle through "Sports Center" while you were running?

From Jon on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 15:51:02 from 98.71.177.166

I would have at least done it on a weekday, so you could watch Mike and Mike on ESPN2...

From Fritz on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 16:04:16 from 65.100.192.74

Wow! Did you run this at home or the gym? If at home I wonder how this will affect your power bill. Still far cheaper than paying for a race. :) I definitely think you can count this as a PR. At 0% incline I think treadmills are a little faster than a flat course but certainly not as fast as St. George or TOU.

From Rob on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 16:14:09 from 204.15.86.95

It was at the gym, Lifetime. They don't have individual TV's just a giant wall O' TV's. So I just listened to music really loud and watched the same weather forecast 7 times.

From Rachelle on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 18:52:24 from 66.7.127.115

Um you are a rockstar. Wow simply amazing! I have always thought about running a marathon on the treadmill because I swear on the life of me I could PR that way too.

I might just have to try it. Why not huh?

From Burt on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 22:26:02 from 174.255.241.22

You are absolutely bonkers.

From Seth on Sat, Nov 19, 2011 at 22:38:25 from 67.177.36.131

Wow, that is impressive! I say PR for sure. You need to go into your next marathon with that laid back mentality and you'll kill it. Nice work!

From allie on Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 00:19:00 from 24.10.191.18

blink. blink. HOLY COW.

From Bam on Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 06:34:43 from 86.40.3.113

You are seriously touched, lad.

Well done, that was amazing. I can't even stay on a treadmill for more than 5 mins.

Perhaps you should investigate if they have TM marathon races. I think you'd be up there with the best of them. Once again, well done.

From Teena Marie on Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 11:26:41 from 174.27.199.39

Did you count how many crazy looks you got from people at the gym?

Less than or equal to 2: probably not crazy

3 to 4: very likely crazy

greater than or equal to 5: (I'd have to agree with Murphy here) total whack job!!

Regardless, congrats on the PR! :)

From Rob on Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 11:35:34 from 204.15.86.95

:), Teena Marie. For the first hour I was the only person at the gym so I don't really think anyone knew. All these people are used to seeing the crazy guy on the front treadmill 3 from the right every morning, they stopped giving me crazy looks months ago.

From JulieC on Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 13:29:51 from 67.41.189.197

totally crazy..but nothing surprises me anymore with running. I ran a marathon for the heck of it in July up AF canyon and back..but sub 2:50 marathon on the TM takes the cake!! Longest I have run is a 20 miler on the TM : D if I were as crazy as I was in July I would be on that TM tomorrow shooting for my PR too due to your inspiration!! I LOVE IT!!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!! Thanks for sharing!! btw did you add any incline to vary the terrain?

From Kam on Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 22:31:46 from 67.2.39.81

Nice. I've heard of some pretty dull courses, but this must be the winner. Do you have a count of how many people got on and off next to you during your marathon?

From Bec on Mon, Nov 21, 2011 at 11:48:50 from 68.206.133.141

This is just AMAZING!!! What kind of looks were you getting at the gym, if any? Did you get off the TM and think, "I just ran a marathon on the TM and no one here even knows it!"

I am impressed. I have ran 22 miles on the Olympic Oval and a half on TM. Don't know if I could do a full... Now I want to. It would have been nice to have ran next to someone.

From Rob on Mon, Nov 21, 2011 at 12:07:03 from 204.15.86.95

Walter - I'm in, sign me up. Do you need pacers :)

Rob - I wasn't offended by you calling me a braincell deficient whack job. I knew you were impressed.

Rachelle - Thanks, my ears were ringing like a Rockstar from listening to loud music for almost 3 hours.

Burt- Thanks, that means a lot coming from you.

Bam - I did a search, apparently treadmill marathons aren't real popular.

Julie - No, just 0% inline the whole time. Going into it I thought if I wanted to bail out I could always put it on negative incline and cheat but I never had too.

Kam - People don't run next to me, I must stink.

Bec - At mile 25 I actually started crying a bit and thought "I hope no one sees me, cause they would think I was really crazy" But yes, that is exactly what I thought when I got done. "I just ran a marathon and no one here even knows."

From Burt on Mon, Nov 21, 2011 at 12:17:40 from 68.14.209.26

Apparently this guy holds the world record for treadmill marathons: http://athlinks.com/racer/41201281

Maybe you've heard of him.

From Rob on Mon, Nov 21, 2011 at 12:41:45 from 204.15.86.95

Looks like Josh got beat!

http://www.recordholders.org/en/list/treadmill.html

From Burt on Mon, Nov 21, 2011 at 12:45:22 from 68.14.209.26

I'll be darned.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

16 miles in 2:06:25  7:54 avg pace.  

I'm kind of worn out but not really that sore.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 16.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

So much for my high mileage week, woke up feeling like I'd been hit by a truck.  Stuffy, Achy, and just all around yucky.  1 hour on the elliptical, 1/2 hour of weights then hottub and steam room.  I feel 100% better now, but glad I didn't push it.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Bec on Tue, Nov 22, 2011 at 10:01:12 from 68.206.133.141

Didn't push it? An hour and a half of exercise? My biggest worry is what I will eat next. I'm glad you feel better.

I am from Lehi too. I just got married and moved to Texas. I miss the Utah mountains but not the Utah cold.

From Rob on Tue, Nov 22, 2011 at 10:08:08 from 204.15.86.95

Where in Texas? My wife gets mad at me every day for making her move back from the South.

From Bec on Tue, Nov 22, 2011 at 10:10:37 from 68.206.133.141

Ha! I don't blame her if she likes the warm weather. We live in Del Rio, right on the boarder, in the middle of NOWHERE.

From allie on Tue, Nov 22, 2011 at 12:44:15 from 161.38.218.168

sorry you're sick, but that hardly looks like a rest day to me. good job, rob.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.005.000.000.0012.00

I've been waking up very stuffy the last few weeks and thought it must be from the furnace and dry air, so this week I installed a whole house humidifier onto the furnace thinking it would help.  My fingers aren't falling apart from being so dry any more but for some reason I and the rest of the family are still waking up very stuffy every morning.  After getting up and moving it seems to get better but it's really annoying.

Stomach was also a bit of an issue this morning so I ran 6 slow miles, took a water break and then 6 faster miles.  Everything felt better while running the faster 6 so maybe that's the trick.

6 miles in 47:00 7:50 avg pace

6 miles in 38:15 6:22 avg pace

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 12.00
Comments
From jtshad on Wed, Nov 23, 2011 at 10:12:48 from 204.134.132.225

You have been putting in some serious mileage! I hear you about our similarities this morning...running slow outside didn't sound fun, but neither did the TM. But on the TM I could stop at any time and I am more motivated to run fast to get it over with!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

From Rob on Wed, Nov 23, 2011 at 12:44:23 from 204.15.86.95

I have 5 weeks of vacation I have to use or loose by the end of the year so I've just been slummin' around and trying to take advantage of it by getting some miles in. I may have over done it though, I'm starting to wear down.

Happy Thanksgiving to you too.

From Carina on Wed, Nov 23, 2011 at 13:50:40 from 204.15.86.83

I woke up stuffy today too, but I think I have a cold :/ Nice run this morning. You should actually go on vacation, oh wait, this is a vacation from traveling for you :)

From crockett on Wed, Nov 23, 2011 at 20:15:07 from 71.36.83.141

Try Saline nasal spray. I have cronic problems like this. Wake up in the night stuffed, a little salt spray helps a ton.

From allie on Thu, Nov 24, 2011 at 00:00:30 from 24.10.191.18

neti pot. it's magical.

From Rob on Thu, Nov 24, 2011 at 00:09:30 from 204.15.86.95

I'll try the nasal spray, my wife told me to try the Neti pot but I have a German co-worker that I make fun of for using one.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Full out sick today, went to the gym cause that's what I do.

1 hour on the elliptical, weights, hottub, and steamroom.  Now I feel a little better

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

 

I'm pretty dang excited and a proud parent, I wasn't in the mood for racing but we went down to watch the American Fork Fleet Feet 5K and kids race.  We let the kids run the race and Zach my 4 year old (in bright orange) totally smoked the field.  I always knew he was fast but today he proved it.  Check out that form!!

I met Chad and Chad today to which was cool!

Zach Winning Thanksgiving Turkey trot.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.50
Comments
From RAD on Fri, Nov 25, 2011 at 01:22:02 from 98.202.23.178

I saw the pic before reading your report and I thought "wow, that kid is nothing if not a runner! I'd love to have a race pic like that." Glad it was your kid I was looking at :) He really is awesome - totally catching air like nobody's business!!!

From Smooth on Fri, Nov 25, 2011 at 01:33:26 from 174.27.205.151

OMG!!! HE IS SO DANG CUTE!!!

Seriously, AWESOME form!!!!

Natural born runner, a chip off the old block ( not that you're old, just sayin' ) :). CONGRATZ!

From Rob on Fri, Nov 25, 2011 at 07:24:00 from 204.15.86.95

I know, right? He's got like 8" of air under his feet.

Smooth, he is cute. I didn't want a third kid and I always tell my wife "you're just lucky he's so dang cute" but now he's my Daddy's boy.

So, at the start line I pointed to the finish line and said "K Zach there's the finish line, you just need to beat all these other kids there, can you do it?" He looked at me and said "yep" and never looked back. It was awesome.

From Carina on Fri, Nov 25, 2011 at 11:31:46 from 204.15.86.83

What a little stud he is!! Sounds like a great start to Thanksgiving, way to go Zach!! Hope you're feeling better.

From Andrea on Fri, Nov 25, 2011 at 11:40:22 from 96.32.4.123

Your little guy is adorable. Looks like we have an all-star in the making!

Hope you feel better soon.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Got out of bed at 8:30am, walked to the kitchen for a drink and decided that was enough exercise for one day so back to bed.

Trying to figure out where my son gets his natural running talent.  Humm!!


Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

Managed to squeeze out 9 easy miles this morning, first 3 were rough then it got easier.  The treadmill stalled on me halfway through, I'm sure glad it didn't do that to me on my treadmill marathon, I would have been mad.

Off to Brazil tomorrow so I'm not sure how running is going to go next week.  I'm a little nervous, I travel a lot but for some reason Brazil seems a little bit scary, especially since I'm going alone.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Chad on Sat, Nov 26, 2011 at 18:43:23 from 71.199.13.143

Boa Sorte.

From Rob on Sat, Nov 26, 2011 at 18:49:33 from 204.15.86.95

Do you speak Portuguese?

From Andrea on Sat, Nov 26, 2011 at 18:56:31 from 38.121.228.2

Have fun in Brazil! Hope it's not too scary :)

From Rob on Sat, Nov 26, 2011 at 20:22:48 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks guys, I'm sure the Marriott and the airport shuttle are absolutely terrifying:), but I would kind of like to get off of the hotel treadmill and explore if anyone has any idea how safe it is to run in Sao Paulo. Chad?

From Chad on Sat, Nov 26, 2011 at 22:57:31 from 71.199.13.143

I've only been to the airport in Sao Paulo and don't know anything about the area. I spent my mission in the north. I used to speak Portuguese but it's been almost 20 years and I've forgotten a significant amount. So boa sorte (good luck).

I'm sure there are plenty of safe areas to run but don't run in the wrong ones. Americans can sometimes be targeted. I don't mean to scare you, just be careful.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.004.000.000.009.00

Well, I wasn't about to go sit on a plane for 18 hours without getting a run in first.  Woke up at normal time, went to the gym, ran a quick 9 miles, now I'm sitting at the airport waiting to get on a very long flight.

9 miles in 59:40 6:37 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

After 20 hours of travel I finally made it to Sao Paulo Brazil, I forgot how miserable international flights are, and I have 3 more of them before the end of the year.

Since I'm a Marriott points hog I opted to stay 40 km away from where I'm working at the airport Marriott, which still makes some sense since I have to fly out of the airport too, plus it saved the company money.  Not sure it was such a great choice though, the area isn't very nice.  Of course for all I know these could be high price condos but anywhere in the US they would be considered "low income housing" to be polite.   I asked the hotel concierge if it was safe to run here, he said yeah just run on the road right out side the hotel, I asked how far it went, he said 1 kilometer, I said what if I want to run 10 kilometers, he said run back and forth 10 times :)  I opted to go to the gym.  Which is a very nice hotel gym by the way.

It was really hard to get moving after sitting on the plane for that long,  I was going to go for 90 minutes but either the humidity or jet lag got to me and I had to call it quits after 7.5 miles.  (12k).  I may try to get down again tonight.

7.5 miles in 60 minutes  8:00 avg pace

Oh! and if you were wondering, the treadmill belt spins the same way in the southern hemisphere as in the north.  I was a little worried about it.

***********************

P.M.

Turns out the concierge wasn't kidding, I looked out my hotel room window and saw 100's of people running on that road so I decided to go check it out.  Turns out they paved the inner lane with some red, like high school track like material for running on and it seems to be the thing to do.  It was exactly 1.25 miles around, I only managed 2 laps before it got dark (at 8:00pm) now off to the gym to lift some weights.

2.5 miles 7:45 avg pace

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
1.000.000.000.001.00

Long day mostly sitting in a taxi in Sao Paulo traffic, I was excited to get back to the hotel and run.  When I got back there was a monsoon rainstorm going on so I went to the hotel gym, every machine in there was being used and the place was a hot, humid, smelly mess.  I waited and got a treadmill but after 1 mile I decided it was the most miserable run of my life and nothing was worth putting myself through a whole hour of it so I quit.  Yep just up and quit and I may not run again today.  So there!

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 1.00
Comments
From RAD on Tue, Nov 29, 2011 at 18:21:24 from 98.202.23.178

just have some bacon and call it good :)

From Carina on Tue, Nov 29, 2011 at 19:22:09 from 204.15.86.83

I hate having to wait for a treadmill, and I hate when other people are waiting while I'm on a treadmill. I feel like they are watching me. I don't blame you for leaving it sounds miserable!

From Chad on Tue, Nov 29, 2011 at 19:48:44 from 71.199.13.143

Wow, that sucks. I guess it is spring down there. I hope you can get some good runs in while you're down there.

From Bec on Tue, Nov 29, 2011 at 19:54:05 from 68.206.133.141

I am proud of you for stepping off that machine!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

I'm going to pre-blog since this might be the last internet I have for a while.  I couldn't get a flight out of here early so I am stuck in Brazil for a whole day with nothing to do, so guess what I've done today?  Nothing!  Woke up, went to breakfast and then laid by the pool all morning.  Now I'm about to get kicked out of my hotel room and my flight isn't until 10:30 tonight.  So my plan is to go down to the gym and run 16 miles and then workout for a total of 3 hours and then go sit at the airport for 5.   fun fun. 

See you back in America in about 26 hours, if the storm coming in doesn't delay me.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 16.00
Comments
From Jake K on Wed, Nov 30, 2011 at 11:27:52 from 155.100.226.53

And I was complaining about a "long" travel day to get from Connecticut to Utah!

From Rob on Wed, Nov 30, 2011 at 11:30:23 from 187.50.185.99

Yeah, I really over did it with the end of year travel. I come home for 4 days and then I'm off to Prague for 10 days. Then maybe I can enjoy the Holidays.

From allie on Wed, Nov 30, 2011 at 12:12:44 from 161.38.218.168

USA!

From Rob on Wed, Nov 30, 2011 at 15:09:49 from 166.137.11.59

I'm going to pre-blog more often, there is no way I could have got through all 16 miles of that had I not already logged it.

Off to the airport now!

From RAD on Wed, Nov 30, 2011 at 20:12:10 from 98.202.23.178

Hmmm, maybe I should pre-blog too! Give me motivation to hold up my ideal training. I hope the 5 hours at the airport don't net you all 1600 calories back. It probably would me. I can't resist the cinnabon smell that long, but then again you are in Brazil. Maybe they don't have those there and the food is sketchy enough that you just go for the Hershey's and Coke vending :) I could probably do some damage to those in 5 hours too though.

From Carina on Thu, Dec 01, 2011 at 19:37:25 from 204.15.86.83

Ugh!! Long flights are the worst!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.004.000.000.0012.00

I'm sure I'll get a lot of sympathy from y'all but after my extra day in Brazil laying out by the pool I'm sunburned worse than I've ever been.  Ouch! and then I had to sit on an airplane for 18 hours with a sun burn.  

8 progressive miles this morning, and then 4 easy for a cool down, then I had to head to Layton to clean up after Katrina 2.  My poor parents house is a complete disaster.  10 trees total completely blown down, the roof is a mess and needs to be completely re-done.  I'm pretty over whelmed with it all, not sure I'll be able to run tomorrow cause I'll be cleaning up again.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 12.00
Comments
From allie on Fri, Dec 02, 2011 at 20:19:42 from 24.10.191.18

i actually have a lot of sympathy for you -- 18 hours on an airplane with a sunburn sounds terrible. i'm glad you made it through that.

sorry about the damage to your parent's house. that is really sad. it's unbelievable what that wind did.

From Rob on Fri, Dec 02, 2011 at 21:02:08 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks Allie, I didn't get much sympathy at all from my wife.

I can't believe how much damage was done, I thought my parents were exaggerating, but it seriously looks like a tornado went through. I really don't understand how their house is still standing.

From Chad on Sat, Dec 03, 2011 at 13:49:11 from 71.199.13.143

Working on a house with a sunburn seems like a summer project. That was a wicked storm though. I hope every thing works out all right.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 miles in 45 minutes on the treadmill, then 11 trees cut up and taken to the dump in 8 hours.  which is the better workout?

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Jake K on Sat, Dec 03, 2011 at 21:18:10 from 67.177.21.60

For me cutting up 11 trees would be the equivalent of running about 30 miles!

Maybe you can make it out next Saturday to run w/ us

From Rob on Sat, Dec 03, 2011 at 21:26:34 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks for the offer, I would love too but I'll be in Prague. Has Allie told you about our annual New Years day run? We've done it once and Allie and I were the only ones that showed up. Maybe we can try again this year and get a better turn out.

From Jake K on Sat, Dec 03, 2011 at 21:28:13 from 67.177.21.60

As long as I don't have to jump into a freezing body of water afterwards, I'm in!

From Rob on Sat, Dec 03, 2011 at 21:40:16 from 166.205.12.33

Lame, I couldn't talk Allie into it either.

From Jake K on Sun, Dec 04, 2011 at 20:37:12 from 67.177.21.60

I guess I'd be down for a polar bear club run if there was a water source that wasn't gross (like the jordan river or sugarhouse pond)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.305.000.000.0015.30

12 mile progressive run in 1:18:10  6:30 avg pace.

Then I noticed some super fast pregnant women and went and ran 3.3 miles with her.  She was running at a 6:30 pace, craziness.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 15.30
Comments
From RAD on Mon, Dec 05, 2011 at 17:08:10 from 98.202.23.178

yeah, she IS crazy! :) Nothing like you...no, nothing. at. all.

From Rob on Mon, Dec 05, 2011 at 17:23:55 from 72.254.24.175

I'm not pregnant.

From Chad Robinson on Mon, Dec 05, 2011 at 17:41:36 from 50.73.39.89

And, behold, there was much rejoicing!

From Carina on Mon, Dec 05, 2011 at 17:46:51 from 204.15.86.83

Thanks for trying to make me feel better about slowing down. I sure didn't hold that 6:30 pace for very long.

From RAD on Mon, Dec 05, 2011 at 17:58:01 from 98.202.23.178

You may not be pregnant, but you are both CRAZY fast runners! Prego or no :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.003.000.000.0015.00

15 miles in 1:45:00, 7:00 avg pace

On my way to Prague today so I'm not sure how my running is going to turn out the next week and a half.  I'm taking warm running clothes cause I'm really hoping to find some cool running routes, but I'm also taking clothes in case I'm stuck on a hotel treadmill the whole time.  I don't have a big enough suitecase.

Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 15.00
Comments
From Jake K on Tue, Dec 06, 2011 at 16:54:14 from 155.100.226.53

Have a good trip! Too bad there aren't treadmills on airplanes... you could be getting in some 200 mile weeks w/ all this flying around!

From Rob on Tue, Dec 06, 2011 at 16:55:36 from 204.15.86.95

I've always thought that. Wouldn't it be cool to say you ran from here to Paris?

From Jake K on Tue, Dec 06, 2011 at 17:05:10 from 155.100.226.53

George Bush actually had a treadmill on Air Force One when he was president. That would be pretty sweet.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.000.000.000.003.00

Pretty pathetic excuse for a workout but I wanted to just go get moving to keep from going to sleep and hopefully get over Jetlag as soon as possible.  Very long flight, hit the hotel gym as soon as I checked into my room, managed 3 miles and then just couldn't do it anymore, I then went to the elliptical trainer, couldn't figure out what was wrong with it then I figured out they had installed the handles backwards so they felt all weird, so I gave up on that too.  I think I can manage to stay awake for another 4 hours now.

On the drive it we drove past a river that looks like it has a nice bike path next to it for a ways, tomorrow hopefully I can get out and explore a bit.  It's really wet here, I asked if it is always raining and they told me no, usually its snow.

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 3.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

After walking around to find dinner last night I learned 2 things about Prague, 

1- it is the coolest city I think I've ever been to, pretty much exactly what you would expect from an old Gothic European city.  I never really gave much thought to Prague and never really thought of visiting but it really is an amazing place, and being here right before Christmas is really neat too.   

2- it would be very easy to get lost here.  The problem with wanting to go for a 10 mile run in a new city is 5 -6 miles away from the hotel can get you extremely lost, especially when you've never seen the place in the light.

So I chickened out and went to the hotel gym this morning,  Actually got a very good night sleep last night, only woke up once and then I slept in past my alarm.  It felt really good to get a good run in this morning.

16 km (10 Miles) in 1:14:40  ~7:30 avg pace

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From allie on Thu, Dec 08, 2011 at 15:14:43 from 161.38.218.168

bav se dobře in prague!

From Rob on Fri, Dec 09, 2011 at 03:53:56 from 88.208.89.139

Thanks Allie, I didn't know you spoke fluent, what ever they speak here. I would have brought you as a translator.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I haven't mentioned it before cause I was trying to pretend it wasn't real but after my little 140 mpw, ending with a treadmill marathon stunt my right shin has been causing me grief.  I've just been running through it and eventually it goes away after about 10 minutes but this morning I decided it was to much and I succumbed to the pain and did the Arc Trainer at the hotel gym instead.

45 minutes on the Arc with backwards handles followed by 20 minutes of weights and stretching.  Hopefully I can get done with work early today and get an afternoon workout in.

 

P.M.  30 minutes on the Arc again before heading to bed.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.50
Comments
From allie on Fri, Dec 09, 2011 at 17:15:04 from 161.38.218.168

shoot. if i've learned anything this year it's don't mess with the shins. i really, really hope it's nothing serious.

From Jake K on Fri, Dec 09, 2011 at 17:38:22 from 155.100.226.53

Hoping for the best for you Rob, and like Allie said, its nothing that a little rest and ice won't take care of. You pushed it to a new level there for a couple weeks, and ran a heck of a treadmill marathon... do a little cross training, the body has a remarkable ability to heal itself if given the chance (and a little luck).

From Rob on Sat, Dec 10, 2011 at 00:52:05 from 62.50.217.208

Thanks guys, I don't think it's a stress fracture due to the fact it goes away after running on it, and I can pass the ever so scientific hop test.

Jake- Have you ever tried to find Ice in Europe? If you ask for ice in your soda they bring you one little cube with a pair of tongs :) I love to fill my hotel tub up with ice and take ice baths on business trips but it just isn't possible here for some reason. I guess they haven't caught up to our superior refrigerant technology yet.

From Jake K on Sat, Dec 10, 2011 at 15:54:05 from 67.177.21.60

That would be pretty annoying. When I ask for ice, I want a 20 pound bag!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Well, I finally did it.  Last night I studied a public transit map of Prague and saw that there were bike paths all along the river so I decided to go for it this morning and try running outside.  Started from the hotel and went down the cobble stone streets of Old Prague "the touristy part" and out across some famous bridge that I don't know the name of.  I couldn't find any signs of a bike path and once I got to the bridge as tradition would have it some drunk guy in a suit decided to run after me.  It seems to be an international tradition, every where I go some drunk guy tries to run with me. (Oh, except in Paris it was 2 drunk women in high heels, quite impressive).  I take comfort in knowing I can out run 99% of everyone out there and probably 100% of everyone stumbling out of a bar at 5:00am.   Anyway, I ran through a bunch of narrow cobble stone streets trying to stay close to the river and eventually found the bike path,  it was a great path and seemed to go on forever, problem was it was dark, I had no idea where I was headed and frankly it got kind of spooky so I decided to turn around and head back to civilization.  I ran aimlessly around the streets of Prague for a while and decided I wasn't having much fun so I headed back to the hotel.

I would love to go follow that river trail in day light further, I'm pretty happy with my run and was actually surprised I went 7 miles.  Leg felt OK the whole time but due to being lost most of the way I never really pushed the pace.  I'll try and get a little more in after work today.

Nike Free TR Winter Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Carina on Sat, Dec 10, 2011 at 18:12:54 from 204.15.86.83

I love having running adventures in new places :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

1 hour on the elliptical trainer.

 Ready to come home for the holidays, I feel like I'm missing Christmas.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.200.000.000.008.20

13.2 km in 60 minutes (8.2 miles) progressive run, I hope this treadmill is off and not the one at Life Time cause 6:30 pace seemed really hard.

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 8.20
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

16.1 km (10 miles) in 1:14:00. 7:24 avg pace.

I'm sure having to work a lot longer hours here than I was led on to believe.  I'm suppose to be on vacation this week, not working.

I've decided to try and run the Big Horn 50M this year, work and wife permitting.  It's in Britt's home town so that should be an easier sale.  I suspect I'm a better ultra runner than marathoner but I wont know that until I do one.   :)

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jake K on Tue, Dec 13, 2011 at 11:28:46 from 155.100.226.53

That sounds pretty cool. And if you decide the 50+ mile races aren't for you, the strength you'll build up will only help you if you drop back "down" to the marathon.

From Rob on Tue, Dec 13, 2011 at 11:55:07 from 72.254.18.140

It looks like an amazing run, odd that I've decided I'm done with marathon's for a while, perhaps I'll run 2 of them, in the mountains, both at once. I'm silly that way.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 miles in 1:11:45  7:10 avg pace.  Now I'm really sweaty, stuffy hotel gyms are the worst.

I calculated that I flew over 108,000 miles this year, that's 4 times around the earth and then a quick trip to Paris and back.

I'll run over 2,500 miles, that's a quick trip from Los Angeles to New York, I'm guessing that number could have been about 1,000 more if it weren't for that 3 months off for a pesky stress fracture.

 

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From RAD on Wed, Dec 14, 2011 at 02:22:23 from 98.202.23.178

wow, putting your yearly miles in that kind of context really puts it into perspective! Nice job surviving the hotel gym.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Some days I can deal with pain better than others,  this morning I just couldn't muster up the strength to get through the first 10 minutes of agony so I went to the Arc trainer.  Stupid leg. 

1/2 way through I was messing with my iPhone and dropped it,  I jumped off the trainer without it stopping completely to pick up my iPhone and the peddles wacked me in my non-hurt side ankle, and it hurt like a ........  Now I have 2 bad legs, and no spares.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 miles in 1:08:40  6:52 avg pace.   First sub 7 avg run I've done in a while, my leg felt pretty good this morning, even the one I wacked with the Arc peddle yesterday. 

Today is the last day of the conference, so ready to go home, not so ready to sit on a plane for 18 hours again.  Yuck!  Next year is looking even worse for travel. So far I have 3 trips to China, 1 trip to Brazil, 1 trip to Barcelona, and maybe Abu Dabi.  If I go there I'm so going to Ferrari World.

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Chad Robinson on Fri, Dec 16, 2011 at 02:26:49 from 208.110.158.227

Nice run Rob - You have some wonderful haze/smog waiting for you at home. Travel safe.

From RAD on Fri, Dec 16, 2011 at 12:41:52 from 98.202.23.178

wow. can I have some of your miles? sky miles? My hubby is going to Singapore and I want to go with him. How do you get away with flying all over and not having a crazy jealous family?

Oh, an awesome job on the run!

From Rob on Sun, Dec 18, 2011 at 00:15:17 from 12.130.118.118

Rachel I need my miles, I have 3 kids and 1 wife that all want to go to Switzerland.

From RAD on Sun, Dec 18, 2011 at 02:38:55 from 98.202.23.178

family? pshhh... likely excuse :) I'm just jealous, that's all. Have a safe trip home!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.400.000.000.0012.40

20 km (12.4 miles) in 1:29:05  7:11 avg pace.

Coming home today,  tomorrow for y'all who have been living in the past for the last 10 days.  So ready to be done and home, I wish I could close my eyes and click my heels together, but instead I have to sit on a plane watch 10 movies and eat really bad food.

Should be home in 22 hours 39 minutes from now.

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 12.40
Comments
From RAD on Sun, Dec 18, 2011 at 01:53:29 from 98.202.23.178

Half way around the world you are! Bad food and a horrible plane ride. Tell my husband it's not worth it! :)

Nice job on the run - were you on a TM or outside?

From Rob on Sun, Dec 18, 2011 at 02:03:23 from 166.205.14.17

TM, I only got one outside run in. Pretty bummed about that.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.000.000.000.0015.00

Ahh!  Home at last.  This morning I was wide awake at 3:00am and decided I might as well just go to the gym.  I have a crazy friend that is at the gym at 2:30 every morning (he claims he only sleeps 3 - 4 hours a night and just walks 2 - 3 hours every day so I got on the treadmill next to him and just jogged at an easy pace while talking to him.  He left after 50 minutes, then I was alone.  I tell him to start jogging and he'd be able to start doing ultras, but he's not interested.  He also claims he used to run 26 miles a day 13 miles in the morning 13 miles at night at a 10:00 pace but was loosing to much weight so he started walking instead.  Go figure, he has never ran on the road ever, only treadmill.  I'll turn him into an Ultra runner before you know it.

I've decided perhaps I'll take advantage of Jet lag and Vacation this week and try to put up another high mileage week.  Nuthin' crazy like 140 but 90 - 100.  We'll see how it all works out with my leg, and holiday travel plans, but that's the idea.

15 miles in 2:00:00  8:00 avg pace.

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 15.00
Comments
From RAD on Mon, Dec 19, 2011 at 12:30:55 from 98.202.23.178

sounds like a perfect Christmas present to yourself!!

From jtshad on Mon, Dec 19, 2011 at 16:15:03 from 204.134.132.225

Welcome home! Have a blessed Christmas!

From Carina on Mon, Dec 19, 2011 at 18:54:59 from 204.15.86.83

Be careful with that leg!! It sounds like your turning yourself into an ultra runner ;)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
20.000.000.000.0020.00

20 miles in 2:26:30 7:19 avg pace.

Yes it was all on a treadmill, Yes I am nuts, No I don't know what I'm doing or why I would even want to run 20 miles on a Tuesday at 3:30 am.

Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 20.00
Comments
From Jake K on Tue, Dec 20, 2011 at 11:27:47 from 155.100.226.53

Man, you had 20 miles in the bank before I even started this morning... and I still feel like I had a pretty good morning!

From Rob on Tue, Dec 20, 2011 at 11:36:51 from 204.15.86.95

You did have a nice run. I really need to suck it up and go run outside. It's not really the cold, I actually like running in cold. The gym is just so nice cause of the cold lap pool I can jump in after a hard run. Not quite as cold as an ice bath, but man it feels good. And then the hot tub and steam room to finish it all off. Ahh! I may just go for another 20 mile run just thinking about it.

From Jake K on Tue, Dec 20, 2011 at 11:38:38 from 155.100.226.53

Yeah the cold pool / hot tub combo sounds really good right now

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

16 miles in 1:50:20 6:53 avg pace.  Was kind of planning on doing 18 but I was feeling a bit wrecked, so I stopped.  Oddly at mile 3.5 my leg pain just went away and never returned.  Still feels good now.

Weights and stretching, and then a quick dip in the cold pool after.

Driving up to Wyoming tomorrow morning, I hope the storm doesn't hit to hard.

Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 16.00
Comments
From Rob Murphy on Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 18:07:45 from 76.27.122.13

Pretty good workout day. You seem like you are on track for a good year.

Where in Wyoming?

From Rob on Wed, Dec 21, 2011 at 20:19:51 from 204.15.86.95

Thanks Rob, It's a Decent year, would have been much better if I hadn't had to take 3 months off for my stress fracture.

Britt's family all live in Sheridan Wyoming. Closest "big" city is Billings Montana, about 100 miles away.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

We were planning on leaving for Wyoming at 5:00 am this morning, but we checked the Wyoming road conditions and found that 1-80 was closed in a number of places along with the road from Rawlins to Casper.  We waited to see if they would open and decided what to do, around 7:00 the roads opened and we decided to just go for it and take it easy.  What a nightmare.  600 miles of solid ice, what is normally a 8.5 - 9 hour drive turned into 12 hours of white knuckle driving.  A double long Fed-Ex truck jack knifed between Rock Springs and Rawlins closing the freeway so we sat in a parking lot for 1 hour waiting for that mess to clean up.  No Christmas presents for those people.

Anyway, we finally made it and I went directly to bed at 7:30 pm.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

12 miles in 1:21:30. 6:47 avg pace at the Sheridan YMCA, It's actually very beautiful up here, perfectly clean air, blue sky's but very chilly.  -5 degrees according to the car thermometer when I went to the gym at 5:00.

So much for my 90 mile week, Oh well, who's counting, besides me?

Now let the excessive cookie and fudge eating begin.

Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Jake K on Fri, Dec 23, 2011 at 14:27:29 from 67.177.21.60

At least you made it to Wyoming in one piece! That sounded like a rough drive.

excessive cookie and fudge eating = "Refueling"

From Rob on Fri, Dec 23, 2011 at 14:47:35 from 184.167.120.210

Thanks, it was a crazy drive. We used to live in Memphis so I have a few friends going to Knoxville for the holidays. Hope you guys have a great Christmas.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.250.000.000.007.25

7.25 miles with my brother in-laws dog.  He was jumping around driving everyone crazy so I decided to go wear him out.  It seemed to work OK.

This may be my last run for a while, my shin is in pretty bad shape and not getting better. 

Merry Christmas everyone!

Nike Free TR Winter Miles: 7.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

90 minutes on the Elliptical at the Sheridan YMCA, then 30 minutes of weights. 

I'm going to not run all week and see how things feel.  If I don't feel any better, well, I guess I'll not run even longer.  I have a couple of work trips to places I really like to run coming up so I need to start feeling better before then.  San Francisco, and Anaheim.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Carina on Mon, Dec 26, 2011 at 21:46:57 from 204.15.86.83

Definitely let that shin heal!!

From RAD on Tue, Dec 27, 2011 at 00:06:08 from 98.202.23.178

no injuries! they suck...they really, really suck! :)

From Rob on Tue, Dec 27, 2011 at 11:17:32 from 72.55.212.141

Yes, Rachel they do. We can have a stress fracture swim, and elliptical party and not invite any healthy people.

From RAD on Tue, Dec 27, 2011 at 12:06:53 from 98.202.23.178

I'm in! No healthy people, just us poor cripples :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

60 Minutes on the elliptical trainer, a little faster than normal trying to keep my HR at 140.  Then I did something I've never done before, the rowing machine, can't say it's my favorite cross training machine, 6400 meters in 30 minutes, I'll have to check Fritz's blog to see if that's good or not, my shoulders are going to be sore tomorrow.

I can run faster than that so given a choice between rowing somewhere or running I pick running, unless I have a stress fracture, or I'm going to an island.  Plus, what kind of sport do you go backwards to go forward?  Seems odd!

It's a bummer I can't run, the weather has been great up here in Wyoming and I have a whole lot of spare time. I've been taking lots of naps.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Andrea on Tue, Dec 27, 2011 at 11:37:37 from 69.131.218.205

I would definitely choose running over rowing, although you do get a better workout for your arms with the rowing!

Bummer you can't run, but nap is a good alternative! Have fun in Wyoming - enjoy relaxing. Happy holidays.

From RAD on Tue, Dec 27, 2011 at 12:10:44 from 98.202.23.178

I've thought about the rowing machine myself! Something I may be able to do in these next 6 weeks. Sorry about the lack of running, but a week off is better than a stress fracture, right? Maybe take the rowing machine outside :)

From Rob on Wed, Dec 28, 2011 at 11:32:30 from 72.55.212.141

Thanks Andrea, when do you guys come back? I was going to ask if there is a Saturday group run but Jake just answered that.

Rachel, maybe I can start rowing the Jordan River, and wave to the runners on the trail.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

My dear wife woke up at 5:00 with me and went to the gym.  She's not much of a 2 hour worker outer so this mornings workout was cut a bit short.

45 minutes on the elliptical while she ran, then 45 minutes of circuit weight training.  I probably really could use some good weight training in my down time to strengthen things up.  I noticed on some of the machines I was doing the same weight as my wife. 

Wimpy runners.

I went to the Sport Stop in Sheridan yesterday and started talking to the Lady that owns the shop and is in charge of the Big Horn Ultra in June,  she got me excited to do it and I've been telling all the in-laws that I'm doing it, so unless I hurt myself majorly I guess I'll do it.  She even let me sign up for early registration since my wife is a local.   Guess I better start hitting some trails and get off the treadmill.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

90 minutes on the elliptical, 30 minutes on the stationary bike, 15 minutes of weights.  A whole rest of the day of nothin'.

 

 

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00Bike Miles: 9.50
Comments
From RAD on Thu, Dec 29, 2011 at 13:31:56 from 98.202.23.178

even though we do 2+ hours of a workout it just doesn't feel the same as running even for an hour, huh? I'm getting sick of it! We need to have a pity party :)

From Rob on Thu, Dec 29, 2011 at 14:16:24 from 72.55.212.141

I am a bit frustrated but not as much as last time, maybe because I'm not specifically training for anything at the moment but I feel like I'm starting to learn my bodys limitations much better. Im excited to start implementing cross training into my normal routine and try not to injure myself next time.

But ill still have a pity party with you. By the way, I ate bacon for breakfast.

From RAD on Thu, Dec 29, 2011 at 14:43:11 from 98.202.23.178

I guess that is what ticks me off most about this injury - it wasn't running related. I have been SO good about cutting down mileage and working speed and being good within the limitations of my body so that I wouldn't get injured. Dumb, just dumb.

Bacon huh? I had peanut m&ms :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Wow!  10 miles for the week, a new record I think.

Went to the gym and did 1 hour on the elliptical followed my 15 minutes of weights, I then drove and met Jake, Andrea, Allie, James, Adam, Emily, and Devra.  Ran 10 miles on the JRP trail on a nice morning.

James asked me why I was running when I suspected having a stress fracture, I told him "cause I'm an idiot" which is partially true. but driving home I thought more about it.  So, here is my real reason.

Every day it seems I am either on the treadmill at LT at 4:30 or on some random Hotel treadmill in some foreign place, or if I'm lucky running outside in some random City.  What ever the case I'm almost always running alone.  Very seldom do the planets align to where I can actually go on a fun run with company.  Because of this, I have actually been looking forward to a New Years group run for quite some time now.  I wasn't real picky about who, or where I just knew I wanted to do it.  I took the entire week off of running to try and feel better and when Jake and Andrea posted that they were planning a run I was excited to go.

I'm no going to win a marathon any time soon, I'm not going to qualify for the Olympic trials so pretty much all I have to look forward to is a nice run every once in a while.  And that James is why I ran with a suspected stress fracture, because todays run meant more to me than running with an injury.

Elliptical Trainer Miles: 7.00Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jake K on Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 14:24:03 from 67.177.21.60

Hey Rob - glad you could make it this morning... it was nice to finally meet you. What a perfect winter morning for a run!

I hope the leg pain you've been having ends up not really being a stress fracture... but if it is - better now than in April or May, right? You should definitely think about the Antelope Island 50K... that would be a great litmus test along the way towards Bighorn.

From Kelli on Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 14:38:55 from 71.219.66.129

Glad you did it then! And i HOPE it is not a stress fracture.

From Carina on Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 15:37:02 from 71.199.45.117

Running with people is one of the biggest reasons I run so I totally understand. I really hope your leg pain isn't a stress fracture. I thought mine was too, but it was just really bad shin splints and tendinitis.

From emruns on Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 16:00:02 from 76.27.114.171

I'm glad you came this morning. It was nice to meet you. I understand the appeal of a group run. They are so much more fun than running alone, and so motivating. I hope your leg feels better soon.

From allie on Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 17:23:58 from 97.117.82.156

glad you could make it out for the run. i hope everything is feeling okay after the 10 miles. just be careful!

i'm glad it was warmer this year...

From allie on Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 17:24:11 from 97.117.82.156

here is a picture of the air cast i had: http://site.ambercity.com/images/mabis/air-cast-ankle-brace-training-adult-left-630-6825-0080-lr.jpg

From Rob on Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 17:29:15 from 97.117.11.6

Thanks Allie, I think my dad has one of those, I'll try it.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2196.62274.6099.1017.102587.42
Saucony Progrid Blue Miles: 87.86Nike Free 5.0 Miles: 213.60Swim Miles: 30.60Saucony Progrid Kinvara Miles: 275.00Nike Free Run+ Livestrong Miles: 1523.71Elliptical Trainer Miles: 231.50Bike Miles: 305.95Barefoot Miles: 6.50Nike LunarGlide 3 Miles: 336.80Nike Free TR Winter Miles: 33.35Nike Free Run 2 Miles: 104.60
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