Attack of the Blah

"Off" Days

Some days running is harder than others. While I've had my good and bad days, this weekend I had my most challenging experience. 

Saturday is my go-get-em day where I can run for longer periods of time because the specters of homework and internships are a little more removed. 


I started on my run in my neighborhood, planning on running 3 miles to the best of my ability and walking another 2 with the goal of eventually building up to where I can just run 5 miles. That all came to a rather abrupt halt when I only made it to the corner of my street and my lungs felt like they were on fire. I made it a grand .65 miles before it hard to breathe at all. 

My fiance is far more experienced than I am when it comes to training for a half marathon. He told me all about the dreaded "off" days. The ones where you just can't get into your rhythm and no matter how often you run it's going to happen. But when you're faced with the off day challenge don't give up. Running may have been out for the day but I could still walk so I went for a beautiful 2 mile stroll along the trail behind our house and did some strength training. Walking and doing strengthening exercises shouldn't be underestimated. Remember, every little bit helps. 

Off days can also be caused by a more corporal factor- what you eat. I discovered that even though I was drinking high volumes of water my body wasn't absorbing it. I took a look back at my diet and found a major component was missing- salt. I found that Runners World has a great section with recipes and tips for how to stay hydrated and pack the nutrients you need into your diet. It's these little things that make a difference and by being conscious of what are are putting in your body you'll be ready to get up and go!

How do you fight off your blah days?

Miles-To-Go: 48.34

Lesson Number 1

Lesson #1: Don't Run on the Balls of your Feet

So I'm about two weeks into running outside and my current goal is to run 2 miles straight. I always jog farther than 2 miles to try and push myself. One day I want to go home, shower, and see that I actually went 3 miles. 

Does it sound like much? Nope, but I have to start somewhere and since I never ran before, except for short sprints for rugby, I need to work on my form. Desperately. How do I know this? I rolled both of my ankles. Yes, both. I have a tendency to walk and run on the balls of my feet. This puts a lot of pressure on my poor ankles and eventually they just couldn't take it anymore. I had to stop my run at my shortest distance ever, 2.2 miles. 

The good news is, Runners World has a great guide for the perfect form. They cover everything from head positioning to feet positioning. Your shoes can also effect your form and inhibit your running, but they have a basic shoe guide that will list what brands and styles are best for your feet based upon a questionnaire. The best part- it's free. 

Time Left: 28 Days

Miles To Go: 59.87

Midterms and Miles, Oh My!

How the hell do you balance midterms and running? Planning

It's all about the plan. Are you taking a thirty minute study break? Go run a mile instead of logging on to Pinterest. What about that hour of TV you smuggled in when you were supposed to be writing your paper? Cut it in half. You know you're going to break anyway so instead plan for those breaks. When I'm getting dressed in the morning I put on my t-shirt and shorts so when I break I can pick up my ipod and go right out the door. 

Also, getting up and about makes a difference when you know you're going to be sitting for 12+ hours writing/studying. It can end up making you more productive in the end, and if you HAVE to watch that episode of Say Yes to the Dress (my personal weakness) either put it on your DVR or have it playing on low while conscientiously working on your midterms after your work out. Call it a little reward for good behavior.

http://www.cafepress.com/mf/7176547/proud-to-be-a-turtle_mugs

Today was the first day I got off the elliptical and ran outside. Dear God was it hard, but I went 2.5 miles. It took me 32 minutes but at the end of the day I did it. And I kinda really want to get this turtle running mug...