So, Sunday has come and it was time to run again for the LA Roadrunners.
This time the schedule called for 45 minutes (only time on the schedule).
I set out again dark and early. I had a little coughing again. This time though I did feel better in my quads (a little sore) and calves (not at all) and more importantly knee (not too bad). I also kept the brace off this time.
After the coughing began, I just decided to go slow again and just take it in as I ran. I was also thinking a great deal.
I kind of eased along a modified M1 route. The weather was not too bad; so, that helped.
I was a little disappointed; but, the turboboost thoughts just were not coming and I thought it best to save energy for a hard week. (The Group 7 SPL said he even though Sundays were optional). I felt slow. kind of taking baby steps.
I made it home after a spell. It was more just a stretch-the-legs trot than anything. Still, as slow as I was, my time was a bit better than last Sunday on a longer time ... so, baby steps of progress.
This might be what it will take to do the Los Angeles Marathon ... baby steps upon baby steps.
46:09 of running (vs. 32:02 last Sunday)
13:37 pace (vs 13:43 last Sunday)
3.38 miles (vs. 2.34 miles last Sunday)
Showing posts with label knee. Show all posts
Showing posts with label knee. Show all posts
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Week 21: From the Sea to the Stadium ... SURPRISE!
This was a new part of the LA Roadrunners' training, a visit to Dodger Stadium for hill training. I guess it helps when the same people own the Los Angeles Marathon and Dodger Stadium.
I left early and arrived quite early at Dodger Stadium, the first time I have ever been there before the sunrise! It was also my first time going there when there was not a game to see! Still, it was kind of exciting. At the same time, being me, instead of the Stadium to the Sea course plan; I was doing Sea to the Stadium ...
I found where the earlycomers were parked. Soon, people were asking about restrooms ... so, got to visit the Left Field Pavilion. It was kind of weird being so quiet, no one at the turnstiles checking tickets, no vendors, ... kind of like a ghost town.
More people came and eventually we filled up and got semi-organized. I found some others in my group and we found some pace leaders.
Eventually, people started getting sorted and even setting out. Our senior pace leader was addressing us when I heard the now familiar, though missing for a while, Roadrunner chant ... "Mile One is just for fun," etc. echoing in Chavez Ravine. Group 7 lined up and set out and then a few yards later promptly stopped as we had a new start line. (Try explaining this to a Garmin ...)
Then we were off. I was in the back and without my normal partner. We did two laps of the ring road of the Dodger Stadium parking lot, which is more of an incline than it seems when just driving!
Then they had us go out on the planned 5k race course. It was also good as we set out on how the marathon itself will start; so, we have seen the start and the end!
The 5k part was hilly at times. The road is in horrible condition in some parts; I hope runners are not hurt in some of the potholes and faults. There was also storm debris.
It got more interesting as we were going along as the paceleaders were unsure which way to go several times and eventually we became the lost group. (The confusion has happened a few times before; but, this was a new level). Eventually, Rod Dixon, our heroic Kiwi leader, came to our aid on his bicycle and basically escorted the wayward children all the way back!
I did get to go back to the sprinter days on the hillclimb back as the paceleaders called for form. This is one part I do have an advantage. My form is basically better than most because of the sprinting times. No chicken arms or such for me!
Despite the scenic excursion and extra training, we made it back. We went to the congested bananas and Gatorade table, where we also got some samples of new energy and recovery products.
I was feeling so-so. My knee had gotten sore. My arch was also a bit troublesome. The run itself was alright; but, I did not feel any sense of elation or panic; it was just "Well, it's done."
Then we got the surprise ... they took us to the centerfield area and let us go ON the Dodger Stadium outfield to stretch ... and then play around! It was awesome (well for Dodger fans). One Group 7er offered to put on a Reds' hat; but, was swiftly persuaded that that was a non-starter.
It was so much fun being on the grass. Lots of cellphone pictures. Lots of people doing the run into the foam protection on the wall. Some bellyflops. It was just awesome. It was fun pretending to be Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and Manny Ramirez (no, I am not using female fertility drugs).
I did get ice on my knee; but, it stayed sore. I opted to avoid the 10 and just go surface ... so, saw all the variety that defines L.A. as I went down Sunset to Alvarado to Olympic and into the wilds of Santa Monica.
Quite a day!
1:09.25 of running
6.43 miles
10:40 pace
I left early and arrived quite early at Dodger Stadium, the first time I have ever been there before the sunrise! It was also my first time going there when there was not a game to see! Still, it was kind of exciting. At the same time, being me, instead of the Stadium to the Sea course plan; I was doing Sea to the Stadium ...
I found where the earlycomers were parked. Soon, people were asking about restrooms ... so, got to visit the Left Field Pavilion. It was kind of weird being so quiet, no one at the turnstiles checking tickets, no vendors, ... kind of like a ghost town.
More people came and eventually we filled up and got semi-organized. I found some others in my group and we found some pace leaders.
Eventually, people started getting sorted and even setting out. Our senior pace leader was addressing us when I heard the now familiar, though missing for a while, Roadrunner chant ... "Mile One is just for fun," etc. echoing in Chavez Ravine. Group 7 lined up and set out and then a few yards later promptly stopped as we had a new start line. (Try explaining this to a Garmin ...)
Then we were off. I was in the back and without my normal partner. We did two laps of the ring road of the Dodger Stadium parking lot, which is more of an incline than it seems when just driving!
Then they had us go out on the planned 5k race course. It was also good as we set out on how the marathon itself will start; so, we have seen the start and the end!
The 5k part was hilly at times. The road is in horrible condition in some parts; I hope runners are not hurt in some of the potholes and faults. There was also storm debris.
It got more interesting as we were going along as the paceleaders were unsure which way to go several times and eventually we became the lost group. (The confusion has happened a few times before; but, this was a new level). Eventually, Rod Dixon, our heroic Kiwi leader, came to our aid on his bicycle and basically escorted the wayward children all the way back!
I did get to go back to the sprinter days on the hillclimb back as the paceleaders called for form. This is one part I do have an advantage. My form is basically better than most because of the sprinting times. No chicken arms or such for me!
Despite the scenic excursion and extra training, we made it back. We went to the congested bananas and Gatorade table, where we also got some samples of new energy and recovery products.
I was feeling so-so. My knee had gotten sore. My arch was also a bit troublesome. The run itself was alright; but, I did not feel any sense of elation or panic; it was just "Well, it's done."
Then we got the surprise ... they took us to the centerfield area and let us go ON the Dodger Stadium outfield to stretch ... and then play around! It was awesome (well for Dodger fans). One Group 7er offered to put on a Reds' hat; but, was swiftly persuaded that that was a non-starter.
It was so much fun being on the grass. Lots of cellphone pictures. Lots of people doing the run into the foam protection on the wall. Some bellyflops. It was just awesome. It was fun pretending to be Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and Manny Ramirez (no, I am not using female fertility drugs).
I did get ice on my knee; but, it stayed sore. I opted to avoid the 10 and just go surface ... so, saw all the variety that defines L.A. as I went down Sunset to Alvarado to Olympic and into the wilds of Santa Monica.
Quite a day!
1:09.25 of running
6.43 miles
10:40 pace
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Can you hurt it? Yes, I can!
Well, this morning marked the end of the lull; it was back and at it for training for the Los Angeles Marathon. I had 30 minutes to do to match the LA Roadrunners' schedule.`
It was actually hard to get up and going. I just felt a bit drained; it has not been good week, despite having a bit more rest due to the cutback week. Nevertheless, I made it outside and at least was greeted by a clear star-filled sky, which definitely helped.
I decided to experiment a little, not wearing the sleeve for my right knee.
I headed out and realized pretty soon that was a mistake. It is getting better overall; but, it was having a bad day this morning.
Also, I soon realized I had pain at the bottom of my right foot. I think I somehow pulled a muscle or something along the outer edge of the arch. I did not even know it was possible! I have found that my stride, particularly for my right leg, has changed with my knee injury and it has caused some subsequent issues. Still, I felt like some sort of pain-loving Bob the Builder: Can you hurt it? YES I CAN!
Early on I was doing well; but, soon, it was becoming an issue and I decided to reduce my speed to try and be better prepared for Saturday. Ah, the sweet concept of opportunity cost from economics classes comes to life!
So, it was a bit of a disappointing run. My calves and quads were good though; so, that was a positive. Also, I was still a lot faster than the aerobic running phase; so, that is a second positive. (I am reaching .... but, I really need all the positives I can get these days!!!!!).
30:14 of running
11:20 pace (doh)
2.67 miles
It was actually hard to get up and going. I just felt a bit drained; it has not been good week, despite having a bit more rest due to the cutback week. Nevertheless, I made it outside and at least was greeted by a clear star-filled sky, which definitely helped.
I decided to experiment a little, not wearing the sleeve for my right knee.
I headed out and realized pretty soon that was a mistake. It is getting better overall; but, it was having a bad day this morning.
Also, I soon realized I had pain at the bottom of my right foot. I think I somehow pulled a muscle or something along the outer edge of the arch. I did not even know it was possible! I have found that my stride, particularly for my right leg, has changed with my knee injury and it has caused some subsequent issues. Still, I felt like some sort of pain-loving Bob the Builder: Can you hurt it? YES I CAN!
Early on I was doing well; but, soon, it was becoming an issue and I decided to reduce my speed to try and be better prepared for Saturday. Ah, the sweet concept of opportunity cost from economics classes comes to life!
So, it was a bit of a disappointing run. My calves and quads were good though; so, that was a positive. Also, I was still a lot faster than the aerobic running phase; so, that is a second positive. (I am reaching .... but, I really need all the positives I can get these days!!!!!).
30:14 of running
11:20 pace (doh)
2.67 miles
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Hmmmm ...
Well, this morning was the post-long run run.
I set out dark and early and soon realized my knee was sore.
Since my senior pace leader at the LA Roadrunners had said that he felt the Sunday run could even be optional, I slowed right down fast. I continued on; but, slower than planned or goal.
I took a trip down to around Santa Monica Airport and then home.
It was a bit frustrating not feeling better; but, my calves were fine. At least I got in a conditioning run, if nothing else.
30:25
2.51 miles
12:05 pace
I set out dark and early and soon realized my knee was sore.
Since my senior pace leader at the LA Roadrunners had said that he felt the Sunday run could even be optional, I slowed right down fast. I continued on; but, slower than planned or goal.
I took a trip down to around Santa Monica Airport and then home.
It was a bit frustrating not feeling better; but, my calves were fine. At least I got in a conditioning run, if nothing else.
30:25
2.51 miles
12:05 pace
Week 19: HOLD THE LINE!
This was another week for the LA Roadrunners long run training.
Due to the week's encounter with a dog, plus ongoing knee issues, and not doing last week's run too well; I was nervous. I checked my ankle and it had a lot of bruises; but, there was no real swelling.
I arrived quite early and did what they had told us before not to ... STRETCH! I wanted my leg to be loose. I had also used some of the old Servite track hell week tactics to get ready ... music and all.
My group was a lot smaller this week, may be 50, vs. the usual 70. My normal partner was also missing. He had said he was trying Group 6 the week before; but, I never saw him. Sad as it makes it more fun ... I wanted to talk to him about USC's debacles, etc.
We set off and my leg was a little sore; but, I kept up as we headed north to the Santa Monica Pier. I was towards the back of my group in case I needed to split off; before we started, I explained my situation and the pace leader said go for it anyways. I did see my friend from church and we exchanged hand signals as usual.
My partner went off towards the restrooms a second time and that was that ... my partner killer reputation had been enhanced!
I was doing alright and becoming a bit relieved. I did check the Garmin 305 though to see mileage slowly ticking upwards.
Soon enough we were at the Totem Pole! Wow. Then, it was off to Adelaide and then onto the San Vicente urban obstacle course! I felt a little soreness in my knee; but, it was definitely manageable. In my mind I was relying on the old Servite mind tricks ... One was from hellweek's group work when we had to run and stay as a group. I was one of the guys designated to enforce that the group stayed intact, which usually led to, "Hold the Line!" Well, I silently kept saying to myself, "Hold the Line!"
We reached the turnaround at 21st Street and more water. I saw our on-the-disabled-list senior pace leader. The trip back was uneventful, thankfully. Eventually we reached the Santa Monica Pier and got a great view as the sun finally broke out and shined over the Pacific Ocean. Then, it was back to the Strand and home! Actually, some people fell out of the line.
In reality, it was a normal run for the Roadrunners.
For me thought, it was big. I had completed 11 miles at race pace despite it all. It felt good after the struggles.
Our senior pace leader was also happy as he said Group 7 was going out and coming back intact and together; other groups were quite spread apart and ragged.
So, it was a good run. I felt like there was progress. My knee did hurt later in the day; but, I got the ice on it.
2:01.41
11:05 pace (including water stops; they said without the stops, we were right on race pace!)
10.99 miles ... so close!
This one felt like a big step in making it to the Los Angeles Marathon!
Due to the week's encounter with a dog, plus ongoing knee issues, and not doing last week's run too well; I was nervous. I checked my ankle and it had a lot of bruises; but, there was no real swelling.
I arrived quite early and did what they had told us before not to ... STRETCH! I wanted my leg to be loose. I had also used some of the old Servite track hell week tactics to get ready ... music and all.
My group was a lot smaller this week, may be 50, vs. the usual 70. My normal partner was also missing. He had said he was trying Group 6 the week before; but, I never saw him. Sad as it makes it more fun ... I wanted to talk to him about USC's debacles, etc.
We set off and my leg was a little sore; but, I kept up as we headed north to the Santa Monica Pier. I was towards the back of my group in case I needed to split off; before we started, I explained my situation and the pace leader said go for it anyways. I did see my friend from church and we exchanged hand signals as usual.
My partner went off towards the restrooms a second time and that was that ... my partner killer reputation had been enhanced!
I was doing alright and becoming a bit relieved. I did check the Garmin 305 though to see mileage slowly ticking upwards.
Soon enough we were at the Totem Pole! Wow. Then, it was off to Adelaide and then onto the San Vicente urban obstacle course! I felt a little soreness in my knee; but, it was definitely manageable. In my mind I was relying on the old Servite mind tricks ... One was from hellweek's group work when we had to run and stay as a group. I was one of the guys designated to enforce that the group stayed intact, which usually led to, "Hold the Line!" Well, I silently kept saying to myself, "Hold the Line!"
We reached the turnaround at 21st Street and more water. I saw our on-the-disabled-list senior pace leader. The trip back was uneventful, thankfully. Eventually we reached the Santa Monica Pier and got a great view as the sun finally broke out and shined over the Pacific Ocean. Then, it was back to the Strand and home! Actually, some people fell out of the line.
In reality, it was a normal run for the Roadrunners.
For me thought, it was big. I had completed 11 miles at race pace despite it all. It felt good after the struggles.
Our senior pace leader was also happy as he said Group 7 was going out and coming back intact and together; other groups were quite spread apart and ragged.
So, it was a good run. I felt like there was progress. My knee did hurt later in the day; but, I got the ice on it.
2:01.41
11:05 pace (including water stops; they said without the stops, we were right on race pace!)
10.99 miles ... so close!
This one felt like a big step in making it to the Los Angeles Marathon!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Sunday Morning Run?
Sunday came after another night of virtually no sleep due to the retreat. Still, I decided to try and get going.
The Senior pace Leader at LA Roadrunners for my group said he thought Sunday run was optional and also with my knee not exactly soaring it became time to walk.
So, decked out in Roadrunners gear, I again set out for some slopes. I went up and down just more out of frustration than anything.
I did managed 2.20 miles in 54:49 minutes and 24.58 pace. Not impressive. But, that did include lots of significant slopes as well as hauling garbage bags up hill (talk about crosstraining!).
The Senior pace Leader at LA Roadrunners for my group said he thought Sunday run was optional and also with my knee not exactly soaring it became time to walk.
So, decked out in Roadrunners gear, I again set out for some slopes. I went up and down just more out of frustration than anything.
I did managed 2.20 miles in 54:49 minutes and 24.58 pace. Not impressive. But, that did include lots of significant slopes as well as hauling garbage bags up hill (talk about crosstraining!).
Week 18: Ups and Downs
This Saturday I could not train with the LA Roadrunners as I was with my parish's Confirmation retreat ... in the mountains.
So, last week I spoke with my senior pace leader about my knee and also about this week. He gave me some hints for my knee and also said to just do hilltraining, which is about all you can do in the mountains! So, Running Springs (hey, that seemed fitting) and San Bernadino County became new training frontiers.
I woke up after very little sleep Saturday morning and felt my knee was having a bad day. I have been icing it, taking Aleves, etc.; but, this was not good. Still, I got into my Roadrunners gear and set out to see what I could manage. (Yes, shorts and the shirt!). I also had my running shoes as there was essentially no ice and brought my trusty Garmin 305 for help.
I began with a trip down the entrance road from the highway. I realized any idea of 10:30 pace on the hills was not going to happen. I started to do my best and was going up and down and along (I did make a quick stop as I found some ice/snow still present and had to honor my Canadian roots ... so got some on my face). I reached the main highway (California 330) and decided to not become a hood ornament and turned back down the road. I then went past the camp and church and into the burn area, where a huge fire had blazed through two years ago. There were some really nice new homes as well as construction sites (in California!!!). I went along for a while, still going up and down, as well as enjoying the pine trees and seeing squirrels, birds, etc. before turning back to the center.
At the retreat center, there are some very good slopes; so, I ended up doing five laps around the center, kind of a oval with elevations! By then, I was a bit concerned about my knee as well as the need to get cleaned up and ready for Retreat Day #2; so, I stopped.
I was a bit disappointed in the scoreboard
2.0 miles (but ALL hills and legitimate slopes)
17:31 pace
35:12 minutes
Right now, I just hope to finish!
So, last week I spoke with my senior pace leader about my knee and also about this week. He gave me some hints for my knee and also said to just do hilltraining, which is about all you can do in the mountains! So, Running Springs (hey, that seemed fitting) and San Bernadino County became new training frontiers.
I woke up after very little sleep Saturday morning and felt my knee was having a bad day. I have been icing it, taking Aleves, etc.; but, this was not good. Still, I got into my Roadrunners gear and set out to see what I could manage. (Yes, shorts and the shirt!). I also had my running shoes as there was essentially no ice and brought my trusty Garmin 305 for help.
I began with a trip down the entrance road from the highway. I realized any idea of 10:30 pace on the hills was not going to happen. I started to do my best and was going up and down and along (I did make a quick stop as I found some ice/snow still present and had to honor my Canadian roots ... so got some on my face). I reached the main highway (California 330) and decided to not become a hood ornament and turned back down the road. I then went past the camp and church and into the burn area, where a huge fire had blazed through two years ago. There were some really nice new homes as well as construction sites (in California!!!). I went along for a while, still going up and down, as well as enjoying the pine trees and seeing squirrels, birds, etc. before turning back to the center.
At the retreat center, there are some very good slopes; so, I ended up doing five laps around the center, kind of a oval with elevations! By then, I was a bit concerned about my knee as well as the need to get cleaned up and ready for Retreat Day #2; so, I stopped.
I was a bit disappointed in the scoreboard
2.0 miles (but ALL hills and legitimate slopes)
17:31 pace
35:12 minutes
Right now, I just hope to finish!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Day Off ...
Well, today normally would be a running day (I tend to go on Monday and take Tuesday as the day off in the LA Roadrunners schedule).
After Saturday's long run and yesterday's not-so-speedy walk, I decided this will not be a running week, well until Saturday. I am going for a bit of rest. I may do some walking as well (well, besides normal amount in job and commuting). Hopefully, the knee will respond to the rest, the brace, and the ice. I may give it a second week off next week.
It does feel weird not to have been and I feel rather guilty. It did give me a bit extra sleep, which hopefully will help me finish off a cold and some general tiredness.
I guess right now it is trying to balance pain vs. soreness, recklessness vs. tough it out, pride vs. practical, and more ...
After Saturday's long run and yesterday's not-so-speedy walk, I decided this will not be a running week, well until Saturday. I am going for a bit of rest. I may do some walking as well (well, besides normal amount in job and commuting). Hopefully, the knee will respond to the rest, the brace, and the ice. I may give it a second week off next week.
It does feel weird not to have been and I feel rather guilty. It did give me a bit extra sleep, which hopefully will help me finish off a cold and some general tiredness.
I guess right now it is trying to balance pain vs. soreness, recklessness vs. tough it out, pride vs. practical, and more ...
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday ... A Bit Better is Better than A Bit Worse
Monday morning came all too soon and it was soon time to be back at it. I got up and decided to give it a go.
I headed out for a scheduled 45 minute run for the LA Roadrunners mid-week training. I now have kind of routes depending on time due.
At the start my knee did feel sluggish; but, the legs felt better than normal. I started taking Clif Shot ROKS right after the long runs and they definitely seem to help in recovery. My calves were a little sore; but, there was nothing really hard to overcome due to Saturday.
I was doing alright, not great; but, the soreness in my knee was not threatening.
I continued along and while off the LT pace target, I was relatively comfortable, especially compared to Saturday.
I also have begun a bit of mental adjustment. I was not frantically sprinting to try to get to the magic number. The reality is I have a concern about an injury and sprinting on uneven sidewalks in the dark is a good way to add more problems. While not a great run, I was still going and trying.
I made it home and looked ...
45:56, 4.14 miles, and 11:22 pace.
Great? No.
Good? Not really.
Satisfying? In a way, yes as I was able to run at least and reality is compared to April level, those are good numbers.
Adelante!
I headed out for a scheduled 45 minute run for the LA Roadrunners mid-week training. I now have kind of routes depending on time due.
At the start my knee did feel sluggish; but, the legs felt better than normal. I started taking Clif Shot ROKS right after the long runs and they definitely seem to help in recovery. My calves were a little sore; but, there was nothing really hard to overcome due to Saturday.
I was doing alright, not great; but, the soreness in my knee was not threatening.
I continued along and while off the LT pace target, I was relatively comfortable, especially compared to Saturday.
I also have begun a bit of mental adjustment. I was not frantically sprinting to try to get to the magic number. The reality is I have a concern about an injury and sprinting on uneven sidewalks in the dark is a good way to add more problems. While not a great run, I was still going and trying.
I made it home and looked ...
45:56, 4.14 miles, and 11:22 pace.
Great? No.
Good? Not really.
Satisfying? In a way, yes as I was able to run at least and reality is compared to April level, those are good numbers.
Adelante!
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Sunday ... Live to Run Another Day
Sunday is kind of a post-run run ... So, after yesterday's fun, I set out dark and early.
My legs felt better than normal, especially for 16.32 miles added to the odometer, My knee was acting up some; I decided to just do what I could.
I struggled a bit and felt LT pace was not an option; so, I slowed and just tried my best.
I ended up with a mediocre 30:54 for 2.4 miles at 12:54 pace (including traffic lights time). It was not great (or even decent); but, it kept me moving.
Hopefully, these non-perfect runs will be their own portion of this journey to run the Los Angeles Marathon.
My legs felt better than normal, especially for 16.32 miles added to the odometer, My knee was acting up some; I decided to just do what I could.
I struggled a bit and felt LT pace was not an option; so, I slowed and just tried my best.
I ended up with a mediocre 30:54 for 2.4 miles at 12:54 pace (including traffic lights time). It was not great (or even decent); but, it kept me moving.
Hopefully, these non-perfect runs will be their own portion of this journey to run the Los Angeles Marathon.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
The Success in Failure?
Today was the first time since I have started that I failed to run the complete scheduled run in the LA Roadrunners plan for training for the Los Angeles Marathon.
It was a disappointment. I really wanted to do it.
My knee had been bothering me a lot on Wednesday. I put an ice pack on Wednesday night for sleeptime.
Waking up dark and early, I debated whether to go back to sleep and rest, try it or just go for a walk.
I opted for "B" and added a new knee brace as a fashion item, though the windbreaker was relegated.
I set out and felt some soreness and limits on movement. I quickly decided that the planned 45 minutes at LT pace (10:30) was not viable. Still, I headed east and started up and down two hilly streets. I was managing to run, just not that fast or comfortably.
I decided to just switch to a "let's see what is doable" mode. I opted for one of the normal, medium-range run courses which added another hill. I was coping, not thriving, but coping.
I also found that slowly my leg felt better or perhaps "less bad." Eventually, I was hitting aerobic pace at least for Group 7 and even getting a tad faster (under 12:00).
I hit Santa Monica Airport and turned for home. I found I was sensing a bit more power and far less gimpiness as I kept going.
I made it home ...
41:03 at overall 13.24 pace for 3.06 miles. Easily, my worst performance statistics wise. (If this was statistics class, I am hoping this is the outlier!). Still, I am kind of happy I could run at all and know I have hope if I can just get in motion.
I am not sure how Saturday will go. It is scheduled for 16 miles. I may try to tough it out to the first water station and then hope the apparent normal "now it's better" mode sets in and I can go for it. Also, the week after is faster LT pace; so, that will be a huge test. Right now, I am away in the mountains January 8-10 with the teenagers from church; so, that might be an injury break weekend.
I am praying this is not serious. It has lingered since August; but, I thought it was getting better ... I do not want to think about not making the marathon. I just do not want to even consider the possibility. May be I will have to walk; but, I feel I HAVE to do it somehow, someway.
We shall see ... definitely St. Michael Defend Us In Day of Battle time.
It was a disappointment. I really wanted to do it.
My knee had been bothering me a lot on Wednesday. I put an ice pack on Wednesday night for sleeptime.
Waking up dark and early, I debated whether to go back to sleep and rest, try it or just go for a walk.
I opted for "B" and added a new knee brace as a fashion item, though the windbreaker was relegated.
I set out and felt some soreness and limits on movement. I quickly decided that the planned 45 minutes at LT pace (10:30) was not viable. Still, I headed east and started up and down two hilly streets. I was managing to run, just not that fast or comfortably.
I decided to just switch to a "let's see what is doable" mode. I opted for one of the normal, medium-range run courses which added another hill. I was coping, not thriving, but coping.
I also found that slowly my leg felt better or perhaps "less bad." Eventually, I was hitting aerobic pace at least for Group 7 and even getting a tad faster (under 12:00).
I hit Santa Monica Airport and turned for home. I found I was sensing a bit more power and far less gimpiness as I kept going.
I made it home ...
41:03 at overall 13.24 pace for 3.06 miles. Easily, my worst performance statistics wise. (If this was statistics class, I am hoping this is the outlier!). Still, I am kind of happy I could run at all and know I have hope if I can just get in motion.
I am not sure how Saturday will go. It is scheduled for 16 miles. I may try to tough it out to the first water station and then hope the apparent normal "now it's better" mode sets in and I can go for it. Also, the week after is faster LT pace; so, that will be a huge test. Right now, I am away in the mountains January 8-10 with the teenagers from church; so, that might be an injury break weekend.
I am praying this is not serious. It has lingered since August; but, I thought it was getting better ... I do not want to think about not making the marathon. I just do not want to even consider the possibility. May be I will have to walk; but, I feel I HAVE to do it somehow, someway.
We shall see ... definitely St. Michael Defend Us In Day of Battle time.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Back At It
It is a cut back week for the LA Roadrunners; but, it was back at it dark and early this morning. I was curious to see how two consecutive days of rest would go with my legs. Today was a short 30 minute schedule.
It started out decently and a lot smoother than Monday. My knee did act up on parts of the run; but, it was nothing too serious. It seems that once the momentum is going and the ligaments are loose from activity it gets better (or the natural painkilling endorphins start or I just will it away?).
It still felt nice to be out again, even if I also would not have minded more sleep.
Did 2.61 miles at 11:53 pace; so, not bad. Still a long way until the Los Angeles Marathon; but, each step is a step closer ...
It started out decently and a lot smoother than Monday. My knee did act up on parts of the run; but, it was nothing too serious. It seems that once the momentum is going and the ligaments are loose from activity it gets better (or the natural painkilling endorphins start or I just will it away?).
It still felt nice to be out again, even if I also would not have minded more sleep.
Did 2.61 miles at 11:53 pace; so, not bad. Still a long way until the Los Angeles Marathon; but, each step is a step closer ...
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