July Running!
 

The year is half way done! Come here to share your running goals and aspirations. New, old, 1/2 mile or marathon, we don't care - we're ALL runners!

3 miles for me this morning and that puts me at 500 miles so far this year, right on track for 1000. My knees have felt really good the last couple days.

Sunday I'm scheduled for 12, excited and a little nervous. Last time I ran that far was last year.

Happy July!!!

nothing to be nervous about Ncuneo... you know exactly what to expect! :) its just a training run... relax into it and try to enjoy it! Have you tried listening to audio books or podcasts on long runs? they help SO MUCH with making the time go by and not getting bored.... if you dont already, you should start looking for Podcasts and books that interest you....... once you start doing 4 hour, 5 hour training runs........ ITS A LONG TIME to be alone in your head... and when you are going for that long music just doesnt cut it.. in my opinion

so, im driving up to North Dakota tonight.. planning on being there till tuesday or wedsday.... Im excited to get some really great runs in.... LONG runs :) Last time i was up there i felt like i could literally run forever, effortlessly! SO MUCH OXYGEN! lol :) it truly makes a HUGE difference!~ I havent done any run longer than 12 or 13 miles since last fall, so im planning/hoping to just go for it! a big 17-20 miler....which reminds me, i need to pack my camel back.....

Any advice you ladies can give me right now on how to improve on my distance? I can run 4.5 miles right now, without stopping. Maybe 5, but I can confidently say 4.5. I would really, really like to work myself up to a 10k, then 1/2 marathon. Not so worried about speed... Just distance. Thanks in advance. With that being said, my July running goal is to be able to run 10k without stopping. Not concerned with how long it takes me (for now), just that I can do it.

MKRoyer: 20 miles! Wow! Enjoy the fresh air!

I don't run long distances, but I will have to check out some podcasts. Which do you like?

I'm currently training for a 10k, the farthest I can run without stopping right now is about 3 miles, so I've got a way to go! The training programme I'm using is here if you're interested:

http://www.halhigdon.com/10ktraining/10knovice.htm

I think it's all about building up your distances gradually and improving your fitness with cross training.

My goal this month is to stay on target with my training, so it will be running 3 times a week and by the end of the month I'll be running 5 miles without stopping!

mkroyer I love listening to podcasts. It keeps me much more entertained than music!

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I'm halfway through my one-week pledge for no exercise. I'm hoping my body will continue to enjoy it's vacation and be ready for 10K on Tuesday when I return to running.

I think this whole exercise sabbatical has been helpful. I'm looking forward to returning to working out.... I think I took a break right before I was about to burn out, mentally and physically.

@ Riestrella, thanks! I'll check that out :)

Podcasts would be grear except I don't have an iPod :( I wonder if there are any Android apps like podcasts? Hmm

nikki, 4.5 had been my best as well and I did 5 this morning. You're so close - it's gotta be mental at this point. What makes you not go the extra half - fatigue, specific pain, thirst?

The other thing that's made it harder for me is that it's starting to get hotter and humid, which has a HUGE impact for me - are you finding that as well?

I'm doing a 10K in September so want to feel like I can comfortably run 6 by the end of July. Unfortunately as I increased my distance beyond 5K, I've slowed down to about a 12 minute mile. Not worrying about it for now, hoping I can start to improve that once I've got the 10K distance down.

Hmmm, podcasts never thought of that.

This morning was epic, it was 85+ and 64% humidity. OMG it was brutal, but I had an awesome pace and felt really good. I was surprised to have a good run since I was 3000+ cals on Friday and Saturday and was pretty sure I was going to tank it. But I felt fantastic. And I discovered I've been cheating myself by not refuling mid-run. Holy cow did my performance improve! My GPS started freaking out about 9 miles in so I'm not positive what my pace was, but I'm pretty sure it was a PR. Either way I felt good and I'm glad I survived the humidity since my race is in Chicago, but remind me not to train for an August race again!

Hi there! I'm just starting out running (I used to do it but not competitively or anything just a couple times a week) and have been running almost everyday (aside from yesterday as my legs were a bit achy) for about a week now and i can get up to about 5K with a couple 2 minute breaks in about 28 minutes and I'm wanting to be able to run a 10K without stopping by the end of the month :)

One small question: can I run using old, kinda worn out running shoes or is that making me more prone to injury?

I did a 5k yesterday and my speed had improved to 16 min per mile. So today when I was out for my long run of the week, which moved up to 5 miles, I kept reminding myself to keep up the pace. I was pleasantly surprised when I got home and realized I had kept the 16 min per mile pace for the entire run.

PLEASE get new shoes chooks. You are asking for trouble. Running shoes are not the time to be cheap either. Go to a running store, get fitted and get the right shoes for you.

Way to go envelope!

Awesome! Good runs are so unpredictable. I wish I could find a pattern!

My three sons and I did a race together on Sunday, but I didn't get much actual running in this holiday weekend. They have been wanting to do a race with me. They had fun and enjoyed the experience, but they all agreed that they were never running another race again LOL It was hot and sunny. They hadn't trained, and it wasn't a normal race with T-shirts, timing chips, and cheering fans. In my opinion, it was much, much better than the average race, but I can see why they missed the hype. My youngest and I took second to last place in the race and had a darn good time doing it! I wrote about it in my blog and even have a couple of rare photos if you want to read more about our Do Life race experience.

Good for you! I've only done 5 miles once and it felt like a huge accomplishment! I have about a 30 to 45 minute window to run most of the time, so even on the rare day when I feel like I could run forever, I run out of time. If only I could run faster, I could squeeze in more miles! LOL Awesome job on keeping up your pace AND going the long distance.

You gals "inspire" me to run outside. Been running on treadmill and well...kinda scared to run outside. Yup...scurrrred!:eek: Why? Because last time I ran outdoors (on trail), my left knee gave way and it was soooo embarrasing to have to limp back to my car and drive all the way home. I've been running indoors ever since.:(

That's it. Back to the open free...for some fresh air...birds chirping and yes OXYGEN!!!:D

I'm so stoked for you Ncuneo!:carrot: I find that my runs are ALWAYS stronger the day after eating high calorie.

Running 5.4 miles (indoor) this evening.:)

Hi all!!! Happy July (a little late). I’m still plugging away on my half marathon training! This week I’ll do 14 miles total.

Hmm, I’ve heard of listening to an audiobook on runs to make time breeze by. Perhaps I should invest... This may be a dumb question, but what exactly is a podcast?

I’m beginning to see that my runs are really affected by my eating and hydrating (or lack thereof). Today was supposed to be a 4 mile run, but after far too many beers this weekend, I only made it 3 miles. Ouch. If I have any hope of actually doing this race, I’m going to need to focus on fueling my body.

Hehe...12 was great, almost tanked 5 yesterday...go figure. Actually I did tank it, I had to walk a mile...that has NEVER happened to me before. Oh well. Gym day today. 7 tomorrow.

Joy! It's great to finally put a face with the name - you look awesome girl!

today’s 2 mile speed run went well. easy peasy. 2 seems paltry after ncuneo talks about her 12! hehe

Tomorrow is 4 miles of speed intervals, and I’m mentally preparing for Sunday’s 6 miles! eee!

Just did 4 miles at the gym (52 mins.)
Did 2.6 last night at a race. The race is through a park - so it is a little bit paved, a little trail, a little grass... and a lot of hill. I wanted to do it in under 30 (my time last year was 33mins and some-odd seconds). I did 30:24 (ooo! So close!) But it is a series of races - so I get to try again in a few weeks!

A half marathon question: I have my schedule set up for how many miles I should do on what days. I will be doing both TM and out door runs... (I LOVE the idea above about getting podcasts, etc. for longer runs - thank you!) For the shorter runs throughout the week - should I be working on anything in particular? Speed Intervals? Hill Intervals? A little of everything?

Sasha - I have my first 6miles scheduled for Sunday too. We can do it!!!

Up to you SC. My only concern for my first half was simply to finish without walking. So I didn't do any special speed work or anything. This time I'm still working on distance because I'm using it as a possible precursor to a full marathon. So you can work on other stuff, but you don't have to and IMO finishing and distance should probably be your focus for your first. Oh and have fun!

My 7 was ok this morning, it's still super humid out here and it's really effecting my pace and endurance.

You're all doing great with your runs girls!!!
I started running outside again with a friend a few weeks ago. First run out ran either too fast or too far (13k) and ended up completely ceasing up that night and in a lot of pain. Backed off the next week and did 10k slower, 11k the week after. Couldn't fit a run in my schedule last week so back to it this morning and did just over 11k at a faster speed and feeling it again tonight. I'm told it's my hip flexors that are causing the pain. I've just bought new shoes but haven't started using them yet, maybe I need to start breaking them in and see if they make any difference.
I'm in the UK and even when I was a kid I had a dream of running the London Marathon, so this year I entered the ballot! It's about a 1 in 7 chance of getting a place so I'm not holding my breath, and to be honest I don't know what possessed me to enter now that I look back lol, my longest run to date has been 13k a couple of times! So anyway, I'd like to start building my distance up slowly, definitely to a half marathon distance anyway, and then maybe beyond if all the stars align and early October fate tells me it's time to start training for a marathon!
At the moment I'm only running once a week, all my other workouts are classes, and I'm trying to figure out how to add in more runs without giving up the classes I love that I know help my fitness etc. Any ideas?

OMG LovingMe! Love the new pic! And congrats on entering the marathon!!! When exactly are your classes and what kind are they. Need that info in order to suggest a way to incorporate more running. At minimum you'll need to get to 3 days a week, but more likey 4-5 days.

EXCELLENT!!!! SUPPORT!!!! WE CAN DO IT!!!! :hug: :D

SCraver, I’m running my first half in Oct. I’m only concerned with finishing the race without walking, but I have been working on speed on my short runs only because it’s been making my long runs easier. For example, if I push myself to run at a 10min mile pace for my 2 mile run, jogging my long run at a leisurely 13-14min mile pace seems much easier. Idk, maybe it’s a mind trick, but it’s working for me.

Hey thought I would start posting my runs with you guys too.

I did 5 miles this morning. Thankfully the mornings have been pretty good here temperature wise.

You guys are all doing awesome!!

I am in Week Two Of No Running Or Impact Activity At All: aka Operation Right Knee Full Recovery.

It sucks. I really miss running. And the weather is cooling off too.

But I did a yoga session on Tuesday and 1 hour on the elliptical today to keep my cardio stamina from dying completely. It felt good.

Hope to be back to running in perhaps 1-2 weeks from now? In the meantime kudos to the rest of you... I read this thread every day with envy.

I strained my left hamstring the other day, and woke up to more pain than I was prepared for today. Boo. Guess I pushed too hard yesterday. So, there goes my run. Going to cross train, stretch, ice, and massage. Rarr! Any other suggestions?

cheshire, welcome!

Indiblue, wishing ya a speedy recovery!!

Hi girls

I have a 15k on Sunday here in Texas called "Too Hot to Handle" and a half marathon on July 23rd called "The Hottest Half". I think these are both appropriately titled. I am in the process of losing both of the toenails on my big toes. They don't hurt, but they are black and definitely ready to come completely off. It's kinda freaky!! LOL

I ran a mile last evening as fast as I could and came in at 6:57. It was my husband's bright idea that I should speed train every now and again to build not only endurance but get a little faster. I could never keep up that pace past one mile, but it felt so good.

You're all doing so well and give me great inspiration. Thank you and carry on.

July has been my month to get back into my running shoes.

I started running 2 years ago with the C25K program and completed my half-marathon in October. I did a 5k in January and then found out I was pregnant, 17 weeks later, I miscarried and am just now feeling *up* enough to run.

Its been fun finding my stride again. lots of 2 mile jogs, with a 3.1 on Monday. I am finding that my speed is lessened. I used to be a 10 min miler, but now am struggling to get up to an 11 min mile.

I guess it will just take time. Right?

Gym day today...no run...trying to cut my cals back and I feel like sh*t...guess this will teach me to gain 10...I don't think I tolerate a deficit like I used to. I'm close to just forget it - no one care anyway...but I know I care...bleck - sorry just feeling sorry for myself...I know what needs to be done...it might have to wait til after the 1/2 though...just not sure I can hack it right now...

Hi there! Would it be okay if I kind of join in here?

I'm not a runner, not by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, I hate running!! BUT I love the feeling of accomplishment I get after I run, runner's high really gets me good. I've actually just picked up the C25K program this week, after not having run for about 6 years. 6-7 years ago I ran a marathon, came in 2nd to last place, and before that did the C25K program to start.

I am ready to get back to it! I'd really love to run a half marathon by my younger son's first birthday, which is in April of next year. I am 12 weeks post-partum now, and really finally feeling recovered and ready to get my body moving. I've lost about 45 pounds since he was born (only gained 8) and have at least another 50-60 pounds to lose until I'm around my goal weight. So a long journey ahead of me.

I don't really have a mileage goal for this month, just to make sure I get into the groove of things and follow my C25K program at least 3X week. I'm really excited to start crossing some finish lines again!

I just need to brag a moment... I just went to the gym and did 12 miles on the bike in 41:39 and then got on the treadmill and did 3.1 miles in 39.41.

I FEEL AWESOME!!!

Indi and Sasha - I hope you are both feeling better and get back to your routine soon.

Louise - just enjoy it! Do not worry about the time for now, your time will increase again soon.

NC - hope you are feeling better today.

PacSun - Welcome!!! I am jogging my first 1/2 marathon in Sept. My goal is to finish, even if that means I come in last.

Go Scraver, Go Scraver, Go Scraver!!!

This morning I decided to tackle the toughest 2 miles in my town. The hills were tough, but I felt so good when I finished.

I wish I had the time to train for any type of race, lol. My goal by September 1st is to do 4 miles/ 4x week in like 45 minutes. I'm in my 5th week of jogging and am currently up to 2.5 miles/4x week for 30 minutes. Not bad for a gal on the cusp of turning 40 (in November!) and not having run anywhere for like 30 years, lol. I notice my endurance is much improved, I'm sleeping better and I've noticed an overall tightening of my body from head to toe. Heart disease runs in my family so keeping my heart healthy is a number one concern for me.

Maybe some motrin along with the other stuff you mentioned. (?) Feel better. :)

8 miles done for today!
I was a little worried because I skipped my long run last week (I couldn't pass up a trip to the beach with some friends), but it went great. A little sluggish around the 4 mile mark with side stitches but then my body pulled it together and finish it off strong.

thanks envelope and fitmom! already feeling much better

welcome Louise and Pac!

milmin- that sounds fun! last time i timed my mile was middle school.

scraver and cheshire- yaaaaay!! :D so motivating!

nc- sorry you’re having such a tough time. just keep at it. hope you’re feeling a bit better now.

today is a rest day, maybe i’ll do some light stretching too. Tomorrow is 6 miles... longest long run i’ve had yet. Oy! I’m nervous.