Running on empty

It’s good to know that although in my last post, I lamented over not blogging enough, I proceeded to go a full month without blogging again! I’m starting to sound like a broken record, whining “I’m busy!”

So let’s focus on what’s been going on. I started the Running Room 10K clinic on October 10th, which is 20 days ago. The hectic training schedule has us running five times per week – ouch! At first, the distances were pretty small. A 5K, a couple of 6Ks, and mostly 3Ks. Pretty manageable, right?

But now we’re starting to get into the real work. On Sunday, I went for my first 8K run – my longest run yet. I’m happy to say it was relatively easy. I’ve been going to the Running Room for their group runs, and it’s really helping. Not only am I meeting new people, I’m also getting a good idea of pace and timing. I’m running with a group that runs a little bit slower than my normal pace (I’m usually a little too out of breath, which I think means I run too fast when I’m alone). But now we’re running a long run on Sundays, and at least two 6K runs each week – plus another two to three 3K runs.

Next week, we’re also starting on hill training, which I hear is killer. You have to run up a hill at around 85 percent of your maximum speed – several times in a row. I’m not quite sure I’m ready for that, but I guess I will be whether I want to or not! It’s apparently a great way to improve your time.

So how is everything else going? One big change since last month is that I’ve quit my gym and the whole family has joined the YMCA. It’s been pretty good so far. My schedule has made it tough to get to the gym, but on Saturday mornings, we’ve been going. The kids are in a program, Mike works out, and I do a spinning class and then a 3K run on the treadmill. At 11, I pick up Chris and take him to swimming, and Andrew’s in the pool then as well. I’m anxious to try more of the classes at the Y, which I’m hoping to do starting in November.

I’ve also been struggling a bit with my first injury! That little pulled muscle in my leg kept getting worse. Finally, my chiropractor discovered it was actually a pulled muscle in my glute that was causing the pain. I’ve been stretching it out and going to athletic massage therapy to fix it. It’s still ever-so-slightly sore, but much better.

I also discovered that my running shoes – now nine months old – had given out. The Running Room recommends changing your shoes every three to six months, and now that I’m running distances, it’s even more important. I went to the Running Room last night to get evaluated and fitted for new shoes – and, oddly enough, ended up getting exactly the same pair I got last time! I did a 6K in the new shoes this morning, and I sure could tell the difference. I guess the shoe thing isn’t just a marketing gimmick after all.

So I’m pledging right now to try and update my blog more frequently – once a week, if possible. There’s so much for me to discover, and write about, and read about, when it comes to running. I know I’m busy with work, but I’m planning to make a few simple changes next month (like letting go of a small – but time consuming – client) to free up a bit more time and eliminate some stress. Let’s hope it works!

Happy trails…