Friday, November 18, 2011

Misadventures on an Adventure Run. November 17, 2011

Went running at the Road Runner Sports San Carlos Adventure Run.  This was the last adventure run for the year.

Heard it was coming back in March 2012 though.


How It Works?
Runners/walkers have less than 1 hour to run/walk to as many checkpoints as possible, gathering raffle tickets at each checkpoint.  Those who wear a special event tech T during the run received bonus tickets at each checkpoint.

Raffle tickets were later dropped into a container for chances to win raffle prizes, which included Foot Balance shoe inserts, Road Runner Sports gift certificates, nuun drink tablets and free pairs of Mizuno shoes.

Those of legal drinking age also received a free beer ticket for per-registering for the event, complements of Deschutes Brewery.


My misadventures consisted of the following:
  1. It was pretty dark at some points.
  2. I wasn't familiar with the area and got lost a bit along the way.
  3. But, the worst part was that I dropped my checkpoint raffle tickets along the way and had to backtrack looking for them.  I never found them, losing valuable time in addition to the tickets.  :(

After the run was over, I was happy with my running but felt pretty sad listening to the raffle numbers being called for possible winners.  Everyone else had way more tickets to check than the measly few I had.

None of my tickets were called out as a winner  But, I felt better when they tossed a few items into the crowd as prizes, and I managed to pick up 2 pairs of Feetures! tech socks and a package of PowerBar Gel Blasts.

I was happy to at least go home with a prize from the event.

-----

3.24 miles @ 0:44:21

Also, walked 4.31 miles.

Guestimate calories burned:  589

Road ID: 20% Off. Expires: November 28, 2011

The holiday shopping is on.

For those who know a runner, a bicyclist or a triathlete, a great gift to give to that active someone is from Road ID, who make ID bracelets and accessories.

Emergency contact and medical information can be engraved on a Road ID product.  In case the wearer of a Road ID becomes incapacitated during possibly a run or a ride, emergency responders can possibly use the medical and/or contact information engraved on a Road ID.

To start shopping for that special active someone in your life, click on the Road ID logo on the right side of the screen and use the following code to get your discount:


20% off
Code:  pcSanta220
Expires:  November 28, 2011


Happy savings!!!

Lots of Walking and Getting Around. November 16, 2011

For the day, 8.9 miles walked.


Guestimate calories burned:  601

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Injured and Didn't Realize It Until Midway During a Run. November 15, 2011

Often times before a run, I check my toe nails to minimize damage to my socks.  If a nail is sharp, I usually trim it or file it down.  Today was no different.

But, during my run, I looked down at my shoes. I saw blood seeping out at the top of my shoes.

I got in 6 miles but was distracted along the way.



Guestimate calories burned:  731

-----

 When I got home, this is what I saw:

One of two bloodied shoes.

A pair of bloodied socks.


Cleaning my shoes and socks was not fun.

A pair of shoes being dunked.

My wet shoes are officially out of commission for 1 to 2 weeks to dry.  Fortunately, I have a couple of other pairs of shoes to keep me busy for the duration.

I hope my streak of recent boo, boos have come to an end.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Walking and Errands Kinda of Day. November 12, 2011

No run today.

I was sitting at a bus stop waiting for the next bus to come along, and I saw all these runners running by.  It made me want to just go for a run, too.

But, alas, I got to get a bunch of errands done, so no running for me today.

Walked about 5.69 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  317

Friday, November 11, 2011

Went on a Long Run in New Shoes and Ate a Bug. November 10, 2011

I heard bugs tend to be more active at sunrise and sunset.  I went out on a long run that went into the evening.  As I was breathing, something hit the back of my throat.  Next thing I know, I swallowed whatever it was.

Perhaps, I should invest in bug mask of some kind.


Note to thyself:  Do NOT pull out a pair of Nike Vomeros fresh out of a box to do a long run.  They were rather stiff, and I had to put in more energy to keep going.  This was not the case with several pairs of Asics Gel Nimbus.

New pair of Nike Vomero 5.  Start off with the shorter runs first before you hit the long runs in them.

All in all, I got in 13.24 miles @ 2:41:22 and walked 0.49 mile for a short cool down.


Guestimate net calories burned (bug not included):  1,027

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Itching Skin or Not, Went for a Run. November 8, 2011

My wounds from this past weekend's crash are healing up.  One of them is a real itcher.  It's going to be a torturous healing process.

Went for a run.

4.14 miles @ 0:49:39


Also, walked 4.18 miles


Guestimate calories burned:  729

Monday, November 7, 2011

First Run Post-Crash. November 7, 2011

With wounds band aid up, I went out for my 1st post-crash run.

During the 1st mile, the new skin on my knees were tight, and it did hurt slightly as I was trying to run.  However, after the 1st mile, I didn't notice much.

6 miles @ 1:07:50


In addition, walked 1.37 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  849

Sunday, November 6, 2011

A Run, a Crash and a Near Crash. November 5, 2011

Went for a run today.

Along the way, there was some broken sidewalk.  I misjudged the distance, tripped on some of the broken sidewalk, then fell.

Trying to get up, my boo, boos looked pretty bad.  I can see blood trailing down one arm.  I can also see blood coming out from 2 fingers.  And, that's before I saw blood trickling down 1 knee.

I picked myself up and continued on my way.

And, along the way, I almost crashed again.  There was a garbageman emptying a garbage bag out of public garbage can.  Without looking for pedestrians, he picked up the garbage bag and put it directly in my path.  Fortunately, I wasn't going that fast, so I jumped over the garbage to safety.

Now, I was thinking I am jinxed today.

I continued onwards.  My knee must have looked pretty bad.  At one point, a nice lady pushing a child in a stroller going the opposite direction saw me approaching.  She yelled at me, "I have some clean wipes."

I thanked her, said I was alright and continued onwards.

When I finally finished my run, this is what I saw on 1 of my legs:

1 of my boo, boos.  I felt a bit late for Halloween.

I was planning on going to the gym afterwards.  But, I decided to give my wounds some time to heal.

I spent quite some time cleaning my wounds, spraying antiseptic spray and band aiding them up using some Neosporin.


6.24 miles @ 1:11:47 


In addition, walked 5.81 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  1,338

Friday, November 4, 2011

Trying to Get in a Run Without Being Rained On. November 3, 2011

Old man winter came knocking.  Rainy and windy today.

I checked the hourly forecast on Weather.com trying to get a run in without being rained on.

Early in the day, it wasn't accurate.  The rain came earlier than forecasted.  Late afternoon, I lucked out.


Run
4.76 miles @ 1:00:17, encountering 3 hills along the way; 2 mean ones and a smaller one

Gym
Weights, free weights and abs @ 0:33:00


In addition, walked 4.77 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  939

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

A Run, then Went to the Gym. Mentally, Feeling Lost Running-Wise. November 1, 2011

I wanted to go on a long run today, but it was too hot.  The air was also unusually dry.

Run
4.29 miles @ 0:51:51 with 1 hill along the way


Gym
Weights, free weights and abs in 0:30:00


Also, walked 5.45 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  935

------

Mentally, I am feeling lost running-wise.  For some time, I had several half marathons on my running calendar, so I knew what my running schedule should be.  Now that all those races are completed, I am in a state of uncertainty what runs and distances should be done on what days.


On the positive side of things, I do not have the post-race blues, and I am not physically injured.

With the holidays coming up, there aren't many running events which I am interested in, but I may run in a Turkey Trot to try to keep some of the holiday pounds off.

Monday, October 31, 2011

Gone Volunteering at the ZombieRunner Halloween Run. Event date: October 30, 2011

I had a very, very, very busy weekend.

On Sunday, I went volunteering at the ZombieRunner Halloween Run organized by Coastal Trail Runs.

Course wise:  Compared to most events organized by Coastal Trail Runs, this course was pretty flat.  The elevation change over the Half Marathon distance was just a tiny 65 feet.

On the Menu:
  1. 5 Miler - actual was less (Note:  Trails runs are known for a bit of a variance between the actual distance because one just can't plop down the Start and Finish areas, as well as the aid stations where one likes.  Often, it's limited by natural barriers.)
  2. Half Marathon
  3. Marathon

Another fine event organized by the folks the Coastal Trail Runs.

Some runners dressed in costumes.

Here are Bunny and Fairy past an aid station.

Beware of the speed trap just past the Finish.  Runners were being ticketed for speeding.

Frankenstein was sneaking up on a runner.


There were several costume contests.  I was so busy volunteering I missed out on seeing how folks fared at the costume competitions.  I heard winners of some of the costume contests received a pair of shoes from Ahnu, who also sponsored the event.


The awesome finisher blings!

Thanks, ZombieRunner and Clif Bar, for sponsoring the event.

For more info. on ZombieRunner, click here.
For more info. on Clif Bar, click here.
For more info. on Ahnu, click here.
For more info. on Coastal Trail Runs, click here.


Happy Halloween!!!

Friday, October 28, 2011

Halloween Discount on RaceReady Apparel: 20% Off. Expires: October 31, 2011

My favorite race short company is offering a Halloween discount.

I love the number of pockets they put in their shorts.  They come in handy on race day and on long training runs.


20% off
Code:  RRHALLOWEEN
Expires:  October 31, 2011


To avoid disappointment, order early.

To start shopping and/or browse thru their apparel, click here.

Happy Halloween!!!

A Run, the Gym and Getting Around. October 27, 2011

Running
I just got fitted with new Foot Balance custom shoe inserts, and today was the first day I went for a run in them.  I noticed they did affect my gait for the better.

4.2 miles @ 0:45:46


Noticed things got dark earlier.  I had some reflective wear on and a flasher.  But, many folks out for a jog or run didn't have any reflective wear on them.

Note to thyself:  Make sure to eat something before heading out for a run.


Gym
Weights, free weights and abs in 0:30:00


Getting Around
Walked 4.21 miles


Guestimate calories burned:  900

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

A Hilly Run and Went to the Gym. October 25, 2011

Running
This run was so hilly that a couple of folks turned around before the midway point.  But, not me.

Some exercises aren't all that fun the first time you try it, but I can't imagine turning back and not following thru.

4.12 miles @ 0:57:58


Gym
Weights, free weights and abs @ 0:30:00


In addition, walked 4.15 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  837

Track Time. October 24, 2011

I usually don't head for a track workout, but if I'm near one, I might go around in circles for a few miles.

Round and round we go.  Where will we stop?  Who knows?

Got in 3.01 miles @ 0:33:50 on the track.

In addition, walked 3.8 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  520

The Treadmill, Some Weights and The Elliptical. October 22, 2011

Treadmill
3.08 miles @ 0:35:02

Weights
Weights, free weights and abs in 0:30:00

Elliptical
Spinning for 0:30:00

Getting Around
Walked 3.85 miles


Guestimate calories burned:  992

Friday, October 21, 2011

An Easy Run and a Bunch of Walks. October 20, 2011

Ran an easy 4.11 miles @ 0:53:24.

And, walked about 3.1 miles doing some errands.


Guestimate calories burned:  535

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Walked 3.3 Miles. October 19, 2011

Today, I managed to walk 3.3 miles doing some errands.

I am thankful I didn't have to walk that much today.  My legs can use a rest from yesterday's walk of about 13.1 miles.

Guestimate calories burned:  165

Post Race High and a Walk of About 13.1 Miles. October 18, 2011

I am still on a mental high from the 2011 Nike Women's Half Marathon 2 days ago.

My legs are still stiff, and I felt they were not ready for a run.

I went for a short walk and ended up getting carried away.

Carried away to a walk of about 13.1 miles.


Guesitmate calories burned:  655

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Gym Workouts and Errands Kind Of Day; Injured Thoughts. October 11, 2011

One of my hips is still injured.  It has been 3 days since it landed on the injured bench.  It still hurts when I walk.

I tried foam rolling and stretching; both seem to help.


Gym
0:33:00 spinning on an elliptical

0:30:00 weights, free weights and abs


Errands
3.86 miles walked


Guestimate calories burned:  693

-----

Injured Thoughts
Being on the injured bench feels strange.  Every now and then in the back of my head, these strange thoughts would pop up, thinking that perhaps my hips has a certain mileage on them and I might be nearing that mileage.

Usually, I snap out of it and tell myself, it's just part of the exercise life cycle and that things will mend in time.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Went for a Run and Realized I am Injured. October 8, 2011

Run
6.28 miles of a couple of hills and lots of stairs

1 of my hips started hurting on Mile 1, and I took things easy the rest of the way.  I was hoping an easy slow run would loosen things up along the way.  There were moments when I felt it did.

Afterwards, I concluded I am injured.  My hip even hurts when I walk.


Gym
0:30:00 weights, free weights and abs


Walked
Went on a bunch of errands.

3.43 miles walked


Guestimate calories burned:  1,013

-----

My Injured Hip Plan
 It's 1 week away from the Nike Women's Half Marathon.  I am going to get comfortable with the couch, the remote control and TV.  Will also be foam rolling and stretching.  I am hoping my hip is back to normal on event day.

A Short Spin and Some Errands. October 7, 2011

Passed thru a gym.

0:20:00 spin on an elliptical


And, did a bunch of errands.

2.05 miles walked



Guestimate calories burned:  253

Friday, October 7, 2011

A Run, the Gym and Getting Around. October 6, 2011

Run
I finally went for my 1st post PR Rock 'n' Roll San Jose Half Marathon run.

3.07 miles @ 0:34:20 with 1hill along the way


Gym
Also, made it to the gym.

0:30:00 of weights, free weights and abs.


Walking
In addition, went on a bunch of errands.

2.54 miles of walking


Guestimate calories burned:  657

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Short Spin on an Elliptical. October 5 , 2011

After the running in this past weekend's Rock 'n' Roll San Jose Half Marathon, I felt totally drained for the next couple of days.  I couldn't believe how tired I was.  All I wanted to do was sleep and sleep and more sleep.

Although I was pressed for time, I briefly stopped by the gym.

0:20:00 on an elliptical

Guestimate calories burned:  140


When you're pressed for time, 20 minutes is better than 0 minutes at the gym.

Friday, September 30, 2011

A Run, the Gym and Getting Around. September 29, 2011

Run
Ran 4.32 miles @ 0:50:06.  Went up a large hill along the way.

Gym
  1. Short spin on an elliptical in 0:20:00
  2. Weights, free weights and abs in 0:30:00

Getting Around
Walked 3.34 miles


Guestimate calories burned:  961

Thursday, September 29, 2011

DSE Lake Merced Half Marathon Race Report: New Half Marathon PR! Event date: September 18, 2011

I set my Half Marathon distance PR a few years ago during the 2009 Surf City Half Marathon in Huntington Beach, CA with a Chip:  2:30:45.  It was my third half marathon ever.

Fast forward to my 31st half marathon, the Dolphin South End Runners (DSE) Lake Merced Half Marathon on September 18, 2011.  I wasn't expecting a PR this day, but I PR'd!


DSE organized the Lake Merced Half Marathon and many other low key, no frills running events.

While on my way to my 31st half marathon ever, mentally, I was iffy on the Lake Merced Half Marathon.  My wallet was very happy that my event registration fee was just $8.  But, when the gun or the start is announced, I wasn't sure if mentally I can take the event seriously.

The Big Question:  Given the low registration fee, will my legs even want to run?


When I arrived, bib pickup was smooth.

Despite the low registration fee, there were a few extra porta potties.  There were no lines when I got there.

While on my way over, I kept thinking that for such low reg. fees, I might have to make use of some bushes instead.  The bushes were safe today.


The starting line was a chalk drawn line in the parking lot.  There were no fancy banner overhead saying, "The Start."

Everyone lined up behind the chalk line, and the race eventually started.

The first mile was totally congested as the multi-use path around Lake Merced isn't very wide.

During the second mile, the faster folks were pulling away, and I started weaving in and out trying to get ahead.

I got into a nice zone during the third mile and just kept going only taking several walk breaks while downing some gels, downing some drinks or to briefly stretch.

It was an uneventful race until Mile 10 happened.

Mile 10:  The mouthpiece on my running pack broke, trapping all my fluids inside my pack.

Fortunately, the next aid station was about a mile away.

I ran over to the next aid station and drank quickly before running off.

I kept running on the multi-use path until I reached a path made by some cones, signaling it was time to the turn off and head thru the parking lot to the Finish.


When I saw the Finish ahead, I sprinted towards it.  (Note:  I took this pic after I had finished.)

 After I crossed the Finish, I stopped my clock and looked down.  I was stunned!
New Half Marathon PR:  2:25:29

I was stunned enough that I went over to the folks working the finish area and asked if their clock was accurate.  They said that it was.

Wow!!!  I PR'd.


A couple of firsts for me:
  1. A sub-2:30 half marathon finish
  2. A sub-11:00 minute/mile average pace during a half marathon

Official time and new PR:  2:25:26

My treasured bib and finisher's ribbon from the event which got me a new PR.

Post-race, there were lots of orange slices, some potato chips, some bananas and lots of cookies.


So, the answer to the Big Question:  Given the low registration fee, will my legs even want to run? is that yes, my legs will not only run but can run for a PR.


For more info. on the Surf City Marathon events, click here.
For more info. on the DSE Running Club, click here.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

A Crazy Hilly Run and Went to the Gym. September 27, 2011

Run
Crazy hilly run of 4.75 miles @ 1:12:03

Gym
Weights, free weights and abs in 0:30:00


And, of course, I had to get around.  Walked 2 miles.


Guestimate total calories burned for the day:  722

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Inaugural Half Moon Bay Marathon Expo and Scott Jurek. Event date: September 24, 2011

What a long day!

I woke up at 4 something am to head off to volunteer at the Brazen Racing's Trail Hog running events and afterwards, made a beeline to the Inaugural Half Moon Bay Marathon Expo to catch ultra runner, Scott Jurek, speak.

Scott's running career highlights include winning the Badwater Ultramarathon twice and the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run 7 times.  His race distances make the marathon distance look like a walk in the park.


I arrived at the Half Moon Bay Marathon Expo and walked thru the small shopping complex.  The expo was held entirely inside a small shopping complex which was nice.  It was cold and breezy outside from the nearby ocean.  It was also wet outside from the heavy fog.

An event flag greeted runners outside at the mall.


There wasn't a whole lot to see at the expo.  On the plus side, your wallet was pretty safe from spending too much money here.

The Fleet Feet area of the expo.


Scott had 2 presentations.  Because I was commuting from volunteering at a trail running event, I missed his first presentation.  His second presentation was called, "Running Tough."

I need all the help I can get!


After his presentation, he signed copies of  Chris McDougal's Born to Run and some Brooks posters.  Scott is one of the athletes covered in the book.  He is currently sponsored by Brooks.


Pic of Scott and me.  I was awestruck.

Scott said he is currently writing a book.  I am hoping he will be back this way during his book signing tour.


For more info. on the Half Moon Bay Marathon, click here.
For more info. on Scott Jurek, click here.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Giant Race Half Marathon Review: Growing Pains and Brian Wilson. Event date: August 27, 2011

This was the 2nd annual Giant Race, benefiting Project Open Hand.

Originally, I wasn't going to run this year because last year's half marathon course wasn't all that great.  I didn't like last year's course.  The intersection blocking wasn't great.  The course also was a tease, where half marathoners ran past AT&T Park on the way back only to run around in the drab areas of Mission Bay, with there was nothing much to look at and no one cheering also.

When they announced it was a new course, I decided to make a run for it.


No Pre-Race Packet Pickup.
I was disappointed with the no pre-race packet up for most runners.  New this year:  You have to purchase a baseball game tix to get into the Pre-Race Pickup.

If I paid a registration fee, I can't see why I should pay more money to get into the race expo.

It also made no sense to pay for a baseball game tix for a game the evening before a half marathon, since I have to get some shut eye and wake up early for the half marathon.



Pre-Race.
FedEx gear check and pickup was smooth.

Porta potty lines were not too long and steadily moved along.


The Race.
Getting into a corral was a challenge.  Lots of folks congregated at the coral entrances when there was plenty of room in the middle.

Wave 1 before the race started.

Getting closer to the Start.

Off we went.

The first 3 miles were congested.  Many folks were running on the sidewalk to avoid the congestion but were eventually waved back into the streets by course marshals.

Making things more congested this year for the Half Marathon distance is because they added a 10k distance this year.  They took 2 out of 3 lanes for the 10k during those first 3 miles; one lane was for turning around the 10k and the other lane was for the returning 10k folks.

Here are a few pics from the course:

The Ferry Building.

Pier 39.

Fisherman's Wharf.

Fort Mason hill.


During Mile 5, I was running along.  I saw up ahead what looked like some fan who looks a lot like the San Francisco Giants closer, Brian Wilson.

Only when I got closer, I realized it was really him.  He was standing in the middle of the street, cheering on the half marathoners.  When I got to him, he was totally surrounded by fans.


Here's a pic of SF Giant, Brian Wilson, as I went by.


The course continued past Crissy Field and back thru the following to AT&T Park:

  1. Fort Mason hill
  2. Aquatic Park
  3. Fisherman's Wharf
  4. Pier 39
  5. The Ferry Building

Returning towards AT&T Park.


The Finish is just up ahead.

Chip:  2:32:37, which I am happy with.


Post-Race.
After I finished, I quickly realized that things were a mess.  I received my usual bottle of water and bling; this was fine.

What wasn't fine was that I was handed a yogurt but no spoon.  It was followed by being told the advertised granola had already ran out.

I followed the line of other runners up the stairs and onto the concourse.

Things then came to a screeching halt.

The Post Race Goodie Bag and Food Line Jam.

Eventually, the masses slowly moved forward.

I picked up a goodie bag, a Safeway bag, a bagel and a banana.

Next, came the Tim Lincecum bobblehead.

After the bobblehead came the T shirt pick up area.  Some folks were upset they had ran out of their shirt sizes.  Fortunately, I was able to get a Men's L.

The masses then slowly moved towards the Post-Race Expo area.

Finally, I reached the Post-Race Expo.

I made it over to the advertised chocolate recovery booth area, where there was nothing left.  It seemed they had ran out and had already packed up.

At this point, I was very disappointed.  Why advertise something when they can't deliver?

I was also disappointed that due to the start and finish times, those who did the 5k and 10k would nail all the food before some of the half marathoners even finished.


The only highlight in the Post-Race Expo area was the World Series Trophy.

Pic of the World Series Trophy and me.

Ran Out of Medals.
Afterwards, I found my friends and went to lunch.  It was suppose to be a celebratory lunch, but it didn't feel very cheery.  They had ran out of medals, and I was the only person at our table who received a medal after finishing.



Pros:
  1. Beautiful baseball stadium
  2. Finish on the field of a beautiful baseball stadium
  3. Tim Lincecum bobblehead
  4. Post race, everyone can pose for a pic with the World Series Trophy
  5. If you didn't have a camera with you, they had photographers who can take a pic of you and the World Series Trophy.  A print:  $20.  Digital download:  $30

Cons:
  1. No free Race Expo.  If you want to attend, you must purchase a baseball game tix.
  2. Scheduling the Half Marathoners to run into the back of the 5k, including those pushing strollers
  3. Only 3 corrals.  They really should have more.
  4. Ran out of some shirt sizes
  5. Ran out of medals
  6. Congestion on the course
  7. Congestion during the last mile or so
  8. Congested post race areas

Would I Run it Again?
Maybe.

I really wanted to like this one because I love baseball and love finishing on the field of a baseball stadium.

On one hand, it is only the 2nd annual running of this event.  It has growing pains that needs to be worked out.

OTOH, however, if you see a race event schedule the start of a 5k event 1 hour and 30 minutes after the start of the Half Marathon event and they both share the same finishing course; common sense would tell you that it's going to be a mess.  This is poor planning, and it's an event to avoid until their bugs are cleaned up and their race reviews are better.

The Bling that Got Away: Trail Hog Event Volunteering. Event date: September 24, 2011

This year, I told myself to run in less races compared to previous years and now look what happened...

I let a gorgeous bling slip away.

Over the weekend, I volunteered at the Brazen Racing's Trail Hog trail running events instead of running in it.  I was so envious of those folks who had finished their events and have blings hanging around their necks.

Gorgeous trail hog blings.
 
If the bling is similar for next year, I am not letting it get away from me.  That hog will me mine.

For more info. on Brazen Racing, click here.

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Short Spin on an Elliptical. September 23, 2011

Sometimes, I get pressed for time in between things.

Today was one of those days.

0:20:00 on an elliptical with arms


In addition, I walked 1 mile trying on a bunch of errands.


Calories burned for the day:  276

Friday, September 23, 2011

Went for a Run and then to the Gym. September 22, 2011

Run
4 miles, including 2 crazy hills, some headwind and a trail section with lots of sand.  Each time I run thru a trail section with that much sand, it reminds me why I don't like trail running.


Gym
0:30:00 weights, free weights and abs


In addition, I walked 2.34 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  842

Thursday, September 22, 2011

First Workouts Post-Race. September 21, 2011

I'm trying to get back into the saddle after the DSE Lake Merced 1/2 Marathon, which was on September 18, 2011

For today:  0:20:00 on an elliptical with arms and walked 2.29 miles.


Guestimate calories burned:  335

-----

NOTE:
I tried to put up some pics for my Giant Race Half Marathon Review the other day, but blogger or Picasa's Web kept freezing up on me.

I am hoping to try again this weekend and will see if it will work.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

So Relieved! My New Bladders Had Arrived.

A couple of days ago, the mouthpiece on the bladder of my running pack broke during Mile 10 of the DSE Lake Merced 1/2 Marathon I was in.

Mile 10 equipment failure:  a broken mouthpiece.

After I made it home, I immediately canvassed high and low looking for a replacement mouthpiece.  I found plenty of Camelback parts but no Nathan parts.

So, I clicked a few buttons and ordered new bladders with new mouthpieces.

So Relieved!  My New Bladders Had Arrived.

Shipping was lightning fast and free from Running Warehouse.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

So Glad Not to Be Sick Before a Race

Very cold next to the beach!  Brrr...

Today, I am so relieved that I am not sick.  I will be running in a local, no frills half marathon around Lake Merced tomorrow.

I had been very concerned.  The other day, I volunteered to help Nike with a timing test for an Internet project they are working on.  The location was next a beach.  There was a lot of down time for us volunteers.  It was very windy and incredibly cold.  Near the end, my nose kept running; I felt cold; and I was losing feeling in my fingers.

So, glad not to be sick before a race.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Pay $10, Get $20 at Whole Foods Market

Pay $10, Get $20 at Whole Foods Market

Some Fine Print
  • Limit 1 per person.
  • Promotion Value Expires on:  December 13, 2011 (last day to use at Whole Foods Market)
  • Not available in all markets.

To get in on this deal, do the following:
  1. Click here
  2. To check to see if this offer is available in your area, go to the bottom of the right side of the screen.
  3. Click on "Looking for Another City"
  4. Click on the city location closest to you to see offers available.

Thanks for reading and good luck!!!

Ran 4.72 Miles. September 12, 2011

Very warm day today.  But made it out the door.

4.72 miles @ 0:54:28

Crazy me even tossed in 1 mile running up hill near the end.  What was I thinking?


Calories burned:  572

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Ran, Attended a Nike Women's Marathon Event, Went to the Gym and Walked. September 10, 2011

Went for a Run
I saw Brian "Fear the Beard" Wilson before my run.  I didn't have a camera on me.  Perhaps, next time.

8.09 miles @ 1:38:18


Nike Women's Marathon Event at Lombardi Sports
Then, went to a Nike Women's Marathon event at Lombardi Sports.

Nike Women's Marathon event sign at Lombardi Sports

Fun event.  Free Nike tech T's and free shirt customization with minimum Nike purchase.  Nike shoe test runs.  They also raffled off some entries to the SOLD OUT Nike Women's Marathon, which is on October 16, 2011, to some very lucky folks in attendance.

In addition, there were informative seminars from San Francisco Sport and Spine Physical Therapy and Marathon Matt, covering injury prevention and proper running form.



Played at the Gym
Afterwards, waddled off to the gym.

0:35:35 of weights, free weights and abs.



Getting Around
Also, walked 3 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day: 944

Friday, September 9, 2011

Walked 3.02 Miles

Errand day today.

A stop here.  A stop there and so on.

Walked 3.02 miles

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  151

A Run, the Gym and Getting Around. September 8, 2011

Run
Crazy sized hills today along the way.  I'd consider a few blocks to be mountainous.

3.71 miles @ 0:47:25


Gym
0:35:00 of weights, free weights and abs.


Walking
2.28 miles


Guestimate calories burned:  728

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Wrestling with the Tall People's Elliptical with Arms. September 7, 2011

Briefly worked out at the new gym today.


Elliptical Machine with Arms
Tried out one of those elliptical machines with the arms.

Seriously, there should have been a warning sign on this machine saying, "For Tall Folks Only."

It seemed that to use this machine comfortably, your stride must be considerably longer than the length of any of my strides.

In addition, I used the preset cardio workout program on this machine.  The resistance at times was too much.  There were times I literally had to shift all of my weight onto one of the foot levers in an attempt to get the lever down.

After my wrestling with the Tall People's Elliptical with Arms, I moseyed over to the stationary bicycle section.


Stationary Bicycle
The next machine I got on was a stationary bicycle.  Fortunately, it was for a person of my size.  But, on the other hand, the machine thought I was a ghost.  My heart rate was listed at "0" for a good chunk of my time on it.


I really wished I was at my old gym instead where the equipment ain't so odd.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  400

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

2 Days of Rest but Now Back in the Saddle. September 6, 2011

I gave myself 2 rest days in a row (September 4 and 5, 2011).  It felt strange not being active for those 2 days, but I got back into the saddle today.


Confused at New Gym
I am trying out a new gym and am just confused over the computer to machine link.  I poked around on a stationary bicycle for several minutes and was still baffled.  I tried asking the person to my left and the person to my right before we pieced together something workable.

I have a feeling I'll be confused for a couple of weeks.

0:30:00 on a stationary bicycle


Run
Then, went outside for a run.

4.11 miles @ 0:43:52 (speed work)


Back to Old Gym
I was so relieved to be back at my usual gym near the end of the day.  More importantly, no fuss over the computer links to the machines.  Just do your workout and then that's it.

0:35:00 of weights, free weights and abs


Getting Around
Walked 3.03 miles


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  1,230

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Hills and Inclines Kind Of Day

I am not a fan of hills, but on somedays, I got to try to get up them hills.  Today is 1 of those days.

6.06 miles of some hills and inclines @ 1:19:53


Afterwards went by the gym for 0:35:00 of weights, free weights and abs.

And, walked 2.79 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  973

Friday, September 2, 2011

Runned, Walked and Hit the Gym. September 1, 2011

Ran 3.04 miles @ 0:36:33.

There was 1 hill along the way, and I got blasted by strong headwinds.  Pace-wise, it was hard to tell if my legs were tired or if it was due to strong headwinds.


Afterwards, went to the gym.

0:30:00 of weights, free weights and abs.


In addition, walked 2.35 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day: 613

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Light Cardio

Sometimes 30 minutes of light cardio will have to do.

Guestimate calories burned:  150

1st Post Event Workouts: Runned, Walked and Dropped by the Gym. August 30, 2011

I ran in the Giant Race 1/2, which was on August 27, 2011.  I was happy with my finish time and hope to have a report up within 2 weeks.

Today was the first day running after the Giant Race 1/2.

4.45 miles @ 0:50:22  (545 calories burned)

There was 1 hill along the way.  I pushed a bit too hard up the hill I kinda of wished I had an oxygen mask.


I also went the gym.

0:30::00 of weights, free weights and abs.


In addition, I walked 2.85 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  817

Monday, August 29, 2011

Rock 'n' Rolled in Chicago: My 2011 Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon Review. Event Date: August 14, 2011


Heading into this event, I had reservations.  I had registered for this event before I got cooked during the 2010 Chicago Marathon.  The temperatures for that race reached 89 F, and it made for a long, hot and miserable event.  I even recalled I was served hot Gatorade at Mile 15 during that event.  So, I kept checking the temperatures heading into the 2011 Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon.  They looked OK, so I showed up.


Here are a few of my sightseeing pics:
The Bean (Cloud Gate) with a reflection of the Chicago skyline at night.
A delicious deep dish Chicago Pizza from Giordano's.  This cheese pizza took 40 minutes.
Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs baseball team.

Expo at McCormick Place.
Big Expo.  Got some samples and schwag.  The # of vendors and different types were very well balanced.

Brooks apparel and footwear was a huge sponsor and vendor at the event.

I have a soft spot for animals, so I helped to direct $20 to the ASPCA.  Thanks, Dodge!

Small Hiccup.
My packet p/u had only 1 hiccup.  The first shirt I got had some thread issues.  I exchanged it for a 2nd shirt.  The process was painless and smooth.


Pre-Race Night.
Had a lovely dinner with my friends, Jenny and Terry, before hitting the hay.

Unfortunately, my pre-race jitters got to me, and I had problems falling asleep.


Race Day.
1.       Attempted to check in my gear before heading off to meet some friends for some pre-race pics.  No go.  The gear check set up fell behind on schedule.
2.       I suspect many things fell behind schedule because of the storm the day before.  After trying to check in my gear the 1st time unsuccessfully, the covers were still on the finish line banners when I walked by the finish. At their other events, the covers are already off by now.
3.       It rained on and off during the race, so I kept my camera bagged as I was running along, hence no pics along the way.
4.       The last 3 miles had headwinds up to 20 mph.


Some of the sights along the way included the following:
  1. Mile 3 - Chicago Theater
  2. Mile 5 - United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls, basketball team
  3. Miles 8, 9 and 11 - McCormick Place
  4. Mile 12 - Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears, football team
  5. Chicago Skyline
  6. Tunnel thru McCormick Place, I believe

Chip:  Very happy with 2:34:07, which is almost a 10 minute improvement from the year before.

My 2010:  Chip:  2:44:06
My 2009:  Chip:  2:40:32


Pros and Cons.

Pros:
  1. No issues finding a set of porta potties w/o any lines before the race started.
  2. For this year, the weather was cooler and not as humid.  It rained on and off during the event.
  3. Loved the Journey cover band along the way.
  4. New course this year.  Saw more of the city streets than in year’s past.

Cons:
  1. Congested at certain points
  2. Some folks complained the waves were not separated enough, but I thought it was fine.
  3. Some of the aid stations were overrunned.  Volunteers couldn't keep up with the number thirsty runners going by.  I wasn't affected as I carried my own fluids.
  4.  The post-concert headliner, Bret Michaels, cancelled at the last minute.  I believe it was over health issues.

Overall.
Overall, the Chicago weather in August is all over the place, just like for the Chicago Marathon in October.  When it’s cool, it’s great.  But, when it gets hot, it can be miserable.

I had fun at this event.  Thanks to the hardworking volunteers and staff for the efforts in making this event fun for the participants.

Friday, August 26, 2011

RaceReady Shorts and Other Items: 20% Off New Site Promo. Expires: September 5, 2011

I am a fan of RaceReady shorts.

During my half marathons, I need the pockets on my RaceReady shorts to hold my gels.

And, after a I cross the finish line, I've had too many experiences where there is no bag for me to hold all the finisher food.  But, with my RaceReady shorts, my now emptied pockets on the back of my shorts are ready to hold many of the items I pick up in the finisher food line.


I am planning to buy more RaceReady shorts and other items soon.

If you are in the same boat, we are in luck.


Discount:  20%
Code:  NEWSITE
Expires:  September 5, 2011


For more info. and/or to shop at RaceReady, click here.

Happy savings!!!

Runned, Walked and Played at the Gym. August 25, 2011

It's 2 days before the Giant Race 1/2.  I am excited and a bit nervous.

Went for my last run before race day.

4.34 miles @ 0:52:34, which included 2 hills along the way.


Also went to the gym.

Weights, free weights and abs @ 0:35:00


And, walked 2.75 miles, trying to get to and from a bunch of places.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  795

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Cramped Up During a Run and Played at the Gym. August 23, 2011

There's a heatwave today and probably for the next few days.  It was warm and humid.

Went for a short run.  I ran up a hill and went up some stairs.  Next thing I know I cramped up while going down a set of stairs before I even made it to Mile 2.  It sure surprised me!

After I stopped running, the cramped area still hurt even when I was walking.  I have the Giant Race 1/2 Marathon coming this weekend.  I have several days to mend.

Ran 3.82 miles @ 0:52:13


Afterwards went to the gym.  The AC was so nice at the gym.  Perhaps next time, I should play on the treadmill instead of going outside during a heatwave.

0:33:00 of weights, free weights and abs


Also, walked 1 mile.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  653

Walked 5 Miles. August 20, 2011

I slept like a log and felt much better today.  Definitely had more energy than yesterday.


Today, just went on a bunch of errands from point A to point B to point C to point D and so on.  There are moments when I wished I had a Segway to get me to and from all these points.

Walked 5 miles

Guestimate calories burned:  250

Runned, Walked and Played at the Gym and Needed Recharging. August 19, 2011


Today, I wished I was a electrical device and just plugged myself into a wall outlet for a quick recharge.


I woke up bright and early.  I didn't want to head out but made myself go.

Sometimes, I feel better after a run, but it didn't happen today.   Just felt tired and needed more sleep.

Along the way, I turned it into a fun run and just enjoyed the scenery.

6.23 miles @ 1:21:44



Despite feeling the need to recharge after my run, I went to the gym afterwards for 0:30:00 of weights, free weights and abs.

In addition, walked 3 miles.

Guestimate calories burned for the day:  867

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Road Runner Sports Grand Reopening Event, San Carlos, CA: Saucony. August 19, 2011

The Road Runner Sports - San Carlos, CA store completed a remodeling and held several grand reopening events.

Although this event was quite a distance for me, I was passing thru and made it to one of the events.

Road Runner Sports - San Carlos during their grand reopening, August 2011

Shoe Dog

No, these are not the shoe recycle bins.  These are bins containing Saucony try on shoes for those doing the fun run.

Guest speaker:  Iron Lady Champion Meredith Kessler

And, if you are a Road Runner Sports VIP Member who stopped by, you get a goodie bag.

A Road Runner Sports VIP Goodie Bag

I had fun.  Thanks to Road Runner Sports, Saucony, Iron Lady Champion Meredith Kessler, Clif Bar and Massage Envy for the event.

Wished I was closer to this store.  I am envious of those who are.


For more info. on the following:
  1. Road Runner Sports, click here.
  2. Saucony, click here.
  3. Clif Bar, click here.
  4. Massage Envy, click here.
  5. Iron Lady Champion Meredith Kessler, click here.

Friday, August 19, 2011

Walked 6.29 Miles

Errands everywhere and then some, so it felt.

Walked 6.29 miles.

Guestimate calories burned:  314

1st Post - Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon Workouts. August 18, 2011

Finally went out on my 1st post-Rock 'n' Roll Chicago Half Marathon run.

Legs felt rusty and tired early on.  It also didn't help there was heavy headwinds.

5.08 miles @ 0:55:50

Also, made it to the gym for a workout on weights, free weights and abs:  0:30:00

In addition, walked 2 miles.


Guestimate calories burned for the day:  813

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Received Samples: New Stevia Formula Cytomax Sticks and Muscle Milk

Made it to the 2011 Rock 'n' Roll Chicago 1/2 Marathon over the past extended weekend.  Work schedule permitting, I'll try to put together an event report within 2 weeks.

Was surprised by a sample package I received in the mail when I got back.

New Stevia formula Cytomax sticks and a package of Muscle Milk.

I don't recall where or when I had signed up for the sample from but will hopefully try out the new Stevia formula Cytomax sticks soon.  Over the past weekend, the Cytomax at the RnR Chicago 1/2 expo were still the old formula Cytomax.

For more info. on Cytomax, click here.