Lots to catch up on!
The first group run was a huge success in many ways, and it was definitely worth dragging myself out of my bed at 7:00 AM. The shop was easy to find given that there were 30 Yahoos standing outside of it in various shades and hues of neon. Even though these bright colors are supposed to make it easier for vehicular operators to see us at night and in the morning, I’m quite convinced that it’s really a collective belief that we work hard enough to wear some ridiculous clothing. At the very least, that’s part of the reason that I also showed up wearing a highlighter yellow jacket.
After a few formalities and announcements, during which I realized how painfully behind I am in fundraising, the group set out along the Lexington bike trail for a 10 mile spin. Feeling zealous, I hopped into the lead pack that was led by Tyler, a DMFC vet of four years who has an amazing ability for conversation running a 7:20 mile. I wasn’t dying, but I certainly kept my mouth shut for most of the way. Eventually, the pack dwindled to five of us and we plodded along the backs of developments and houses through the leafless trees. Thanks to the Garmins in the group, we had constant pace and mileage updates throughout the run. Following Jack’s advice, we attempted to negative split on the way home. The group held strong and dropped to around 7 minute miles up to a mile to go. At that point, Tyler kicked into a different gear and I held onto his heels. We went 6:20 for the last mile.
After the run, I took a few minutes to get my stride examined to help me pick out some new shoes in the next few weeks. I am happy to report that I’m getting a better understanding of my footing and had a good conversation rather than just sitting and nodding my head. I ducked out before buying anything but next long run (and next 20% discount!) I’ll be back to do some damage.
Over the weekend, I decided that save for the group runs, I’m going to do my own training schedule based on what I did for Boston last time. The first time through, I ran the distances but had no concept of pacing. Speed workouts were fast, long runs were slow, and pace workouts somewhere between. Thanks to some math, I updated the program with splits for all of the workouts, which I’m hoping to keep with the help of at treadmill and a GPS (Santa? Are you listening?)
Today was 4x800m with 2 minutes rest. I ran them at 10.4 mph (2:52 per 800m) and finished the workout easy breezy. Tomorrow will be a paced 7 miler. I still have no watch but between a stop watch and Nike+ I’m sure that I’ll figure something out.
Also checked out the Nike store today. They have some SICK new shoes that I have no business buying or wearing. It is my firm belief that you must earn the right to wear ridiculous things, and I need to be sub three if I show up to the line wearing neon green kicks with a royal blue swoosh. Then again, if I break three, I’m absolutely making my own NikeIDs that are blue and hot pink…something to look forward to…
