December - Bad Month

Here it is, the day after Christmas and all I have to show for the month (running related) is 7 runs. Six of them only 2 miles and one 3 miler. With the Ogden Marathon looming in less than 5 months, I am struggling. The good news is that my two most recent runs (December 25th and 24th) were two of my faster times for the year for 3 and 2 miles. My problem is the need for longer runs!

Our recent family trip to Southern California and a trip to Las Vegas really did me in during my "month off". With no trips coming up for quite a while, I should be able to get back on track and focus on training. The only derailers I can see are inclement weather and bad air days. No excuses though....right?

Until next time..."Happy trails to you".

Killer Hill!

I did a 4.5 miler this morning. Part of the run was running up 900 south in Centerville. I affectionately call the run up 900 south Killer Hill. It has historically did me in to the point where I have to walk a lot. In fact, today was no worse...a lot of walking to get up the monster. As I recall, I think I have only run up Killer Hill twice without walking in about 25 attempts over the past 10 years. Mark my words though...I will make it up it before next May's marathon.

Well, I pounded out 5 miles this morning. That was my longest run since April. There is a long way to go and a lot of improvement to go before May 21, 2011 rolls around. I know it will be a lot better once I lose weight so I am not working so hard on my runs. Oh well, at least I am doing something besides being a great couch potato. Let's go team! :)

Moonlight Half Marathon

Yeah!! I wanted to post some pics from the half marathon--so fun and so worth it. I haven't ran much since August so I guess it is back to some sort of training for the upcoming Ogden Marathon--yep you talked me into it Kev. So here we go back to the grind...

Ogden Marathon

I just registered for the Ogden Marathon. The marathon starts east of Huntsville, goes around the north side of Pineview Reservoir, and down the canyon to Ogden. Except for the canyon (downhill), the course is relatively flat. Here is a link to the marathon website and you can drill down to a PDF file of the course map: http://www.ogdenmarathon.com/

I hope that once this is over, I am able to run the St. George marathon later in the year (if I get selected in the lottery).

Oh boy...here I go. Anyone else interested?

St. George Marathon

While I am typing this, the leaders of the St. George Marathon are done, and the middle of the pack 3 - 4 hour runners are starting to finish. I am really finding myself wishing I would have drawn out and was able to run the marathon. I am down in St. George right now and the weather is beautiful. Bright sunshine, a little warm for running, but nice. Next year will be the year!

Great St. George Desert Run

I had a great 4 mile trail run on Bear Poppy Trail in St. George. There is plenty of elevation change plus running along a relatively flat dried drainage channel. Absolutely gorgeous. Keep running!

Congrats to Brit!

For starting and finishing her first half marathon. That is a very impressive feat. Next year, a marathon or two?

10 Miles Baby!

So I finally did 10 miles and I am SORE! It was awesome though, felt good through the whole run, was not tired until the last 1/2 mile--however our pace was pretty slow. I did not clock it exactly, but it was around 2 hours and 15 minutes for the 10 miles.

Hoping to do another long run this weekend.

Starting Over With You...

I don;t know what happened here. Didn't get into the St. George marathon and decided to take a "break" I guess. But I am trying to get back at it as well. Went running on Friday for 2.5 miles, I really am back at ground zero. Hoping to gain more distance quicker this time than the first time around, we shall see. I still hope to be able to do at least a half-marathon at some point this year. This is my new goal.

I Hate Starting Over

In my last post I thought I was starting over again...and I was. I got a couple of good startup runs in and then poof, a summer time cold hit and I dropped off the running grid for a week. So here we go again to get started all over again. Almost comical, yet sad. Oh well, happy trails to you.

Still Going - Barely

Well, here it is, the 5th of July and I am still running. I am only averaging about 10 miles per week and not really training for any races now. Just running for weight control. Have been blessed with mild morning temperatures for July. Perhaps there may be a race in the future?

Back At It Again

Well, I am back to running after having to take two weeks off towards the end of May with a foot injury. While the first run back felt like starting over, the second run was much better. I think I am actually in better shape than when I started back in January and my off running recovery is faster. Now, if I can only stay healthy from here on out.

I have ruled out running a marathon this year...but I still have my sights set on a half marathon in the August/September timeframe. I am also planning on running the Centerville 5k on July 3rd. That will be my first competitive race in 14 years. Time sure flies when you are having fun.

Didn't Make it, Dang

Well, we didn't make it into the St. George Marathon. 11,000 people applied, 7,000 got in. Maybe next year! Until then, there is still the Top of Utah Marathon in Logan in September and the Layton Marathon in October. I am planning on the Layton Marathon...mainly because it gives me an extra week to prepare for and it starts on Antelope Island. It should be a fairly flat course.

After being off running for nearly two weeks (illness, laziness), I was able to get out this morning and crank out a reasonable (for me right now) 45 minute, 4.5 mile run.

Come on and keep up the training and don't give up what you have already accomplished so far!

Drum Roll Please

Ok, here we go...waiting to see if we get into the St. George Marathon! We will know tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed...

Piriformis Syndrome

You warned me and I guess I pushed a little too hard this past week. Looks like I have Piriformis Syndrome (yeah I have never heard of it either). But using my amazingly awesome sleuth skills and the internet, this sounds too be the most likely problem. Says 1-2 weeks out, with lots of stretching of this area. We shall see....

I Am Still With You

Sorry, with the trip to St. George last week and being sick and out of running for a while, I haven't really done much to post about. However, I have 3 - 3 mile runs so far this week and one planned for tomorrow (Friday) and a 5 miler for Saturday. That will be my best week for about two months. Only two weeks to go to find out if we made it in or not. Keep your fingers crossed! Nice job on the six miler you did - that is awesome. You are right on track...just don't push yourself too hard, injuries are a depressing thing!

More or less for myself

Well I am going to start using this to better track my eating/running habits. SO for the rest of you, if any of you, track this still just ignore this unimportant information as it is a record keeping thing more or less for myself. Or add your own comments. What ever floats your boat!

This past week ran a total of 17 miles. My long run was 6 miles outside. I realize I need to up this to about 8 at this point. Will shoot for that this upcoming Saturday.

Started back into the running scene this week with a 4 mile run tonight. Still holding pretty steady at about a 10 minute mile. But 4 miles is starting to feel pretty comfortable. No straining or breathing problems as long as I have a good amount of water during the day (my runs are now at late afternoon or night) and eating good carbs throughout the day really seems to help.

Yeah for running!

Back in the Groove

So over the past few weeks I have been fairly consistent in my running and tonight I finally broke the 4 mile barrier and ran 6 miles in 60:53--of course this was on a treadmill with no hills--but still I am feelin' good!! All registered for the marathon, fingers crossed we will get in!

Registration

So it looks like the Utah County Half marathon has already reached capacity. So I think that the 10k sounds good in May and shoot for the Hobbler Half in July. I have tried to track down cost for them, but haven't found it yet...Running is going alright. Still haven't ran more than 4 miles. Registration for St. George starts tomorrow!! Kick this butt into gear!

Another Nice Saturday Run

Well, I made 4.3 miles today in 47 minutes. 15 years ago I did that same distance in 32 minutes. Ouch!!! I guess the extra 40 pounds and extra 15 years may have something to do with that. None the less, I am still excited about the training and the marathon.

I found a few more potential intermediate races for us to consider in preparation for the marathon. They are listed to the right. I was surprised to find there is a 1/2 marathon on July 10 in Springville - Britt's own backyard 1/2 marathon. It is called the Hobbler 1/2 Marathon.

How about a Memorial Day 10k in Orem?

Anyway, I hope you all are doing well and enjoying this opportunity!

Happy Trails to You.

Ok, back at it again

I am now finished with my self imposed vacation from running and back at it again. Saturday I ran/walked 2.6 miles in 30 minutes up by the Bountiful Temple. Today (Monday) I discovered it is about 2.6 miles from the Hunter's home to my home and did that in 29 minutes. Monday's run/walk was a lot easier on my lungs and legs than Saturday's run.

My vacation from running lasted about two weeks and was caused by me being lazy in St. George.

I hope you all are doing ok. Tiff, just keep walking to help your knees along. Don't push to hard...we don't want permanent damage.

I learned of a new half marathon at work today. It is in July. The Bryce Canyon marathon. I'll bet that is a beautiful run. I'll check on it for more information.

Happy trails to you all.

Finally an Update!

Not a whole lot new here. I have done a few runs outside and they were MARVELOUS! I really want to up my mileage, still sticking around 2-3 miles per day, 4 miles for a long run. Missed my long run last week :(...but today I did run my three miles in 33 min. I am okay with that. I feel good while running, but still finding that I have minor aches and pains in my legs/knees after. Hopefully that will subside as I continue. Almost registration time...dun dun dun!

What is up with my knees?!!

Ouch! My knees are still hurting after a week! I tried to run thru it last Tues. but made it worse. I've gone for some walks over the past week but I haven't been able to do much more. I am getting depressed watching all of the other runners each morning down on Main and I am getting anxious to get out there! I am giving the knees a rest and then I will start back up again when they aren't hurting so bad anymore...hopefully, soon!! I hope things are going better for you guys!

I've Been a Bad Boy

Well, a week in St. George made me very lazy...I didn't run at all this last week. Back to pounding the pavement tomorrow to start all over. Yuk! Oh well, better to keep it on and off than permanently off.

I hope you all are progressing better than me. WOOHOO!

Ran 2 miles yesterday...outside. I'm trying to run at least 1 run each week outside so I'm conditioned for the marathon. It seemed to be a little harder on the knees. My right hip and left knee are hurting - enough that I took an ibuprofen yesterday. Next week I start some 3 milers!

Update for the week

This will be short and sweet. This week ran my 2 miles Mon, Tues, Thurs and today (Friday) ran my 3 miles in 32:47. Off to St. George this afternoon, hopefully can get out tomorrow and do my long run. Whew!!

You Get What You Give

Hey my little "pack"! Kevin, I liked the Bad Company lyrics! Thanks for sharing! One of the songs on my playlist is "You Get What You Give" by the New Radicals. This is a little mantra I use for myself as I'm running. Another New Radicals song I like is "Mother We Just Can't Get Enough." When I start to hurt, I sing the part where it says, "we just can't get enough." Is that sick or what!!?? Kevin, have you tried the Kings of Leon? I think you would like them. They really have that classic rock sound. Anyway, back to the run...I did 2miles today. I should have done them yesterday but the morning was crazy. I did the run today which was going to be a rest day so I'm back on schedule. Britt, I just need to trim 5 min. off my 2 mi. and I will be caught up to you. I'm working hard at being consistent and meeting the goals and it's really making me feel great inside and out. It's amazing the sense of accomplishment I already have. I can't wait for the feeling I will have when I cross that marathon finish line...that is totally keeping me motivated!

Here are some lyrics that apply to our little "pack" as Britt has named us. They are from a song in the 1970s (of course) from a band called Bad Company. The name of the song is called Running With the Pack. The lyrics are taken way out of context...but they will work for us.

You can't hold me down,
You can't hold me back,
goin my own way, runnin with the pack,
Ooh,
Never never never looking back,
Woh,
Keep on running, keep on running, yeah,
Moving on, moving out,

Come On Spring!

I am so happy that it appears the weather is warming up. I really struggle with getting out and running when it is less than 25 degrees outside. With that comment made, I did miss my run this morning but will be back at it tomorrow with a 3 miler.

It will difficult next week in St. George to get acclimated to the beautiful weather there and then have to come back to cold again. Oh well, a taste of what is yet to come.

Morning update: Done with the run and it was a spectacular 32 degrees outside. You guys have a fine run today!

My New Best Friend

Today I ran my 2 miles, better time--22 minutes. I have decided this week that I need to jump on the wagon of no carbonation. I will have to probably slowly adapt to this because as you all know me and Dr. Pepper are pretty good friends, he has seen me through a lot these past years and always seems to put me in a better mood. But not anymore. My new best friend is going to be my water bottle. True he has been neglected the past few months/year--but no more. I have dusted him off and from now on wherever I go, he goes. Welcome home old friend!

Back of the Pack

Wow guys! You are doing awesome! I am happy to be on a running schedule now...finally hit the 6 week mark last week so I am good to hit it hard and I have to in order to keep up with you all! I found a great regimen for a 26 week program online and I wrote my daily goals into my calendar so each day I know what to accomplish. There are a few extra weeks in that schedule before Sept./Oct. so if there is a week I struggle I can be a little flexible but I really want to work hard to continually progress. I am on a slow start (1 mile on Thurs., 2 mi. Fri., 2 mi. Sat.) but I am encouraged that I have seen improvement in just the few days since I started. Today I did 2 miles and cut my time by 3 min.! I can't wait till some of this weight comes off so I can move a little quicker! Here are a few things that have made me feel good: 1. A great playlist on the ipod - totally gets me moving! 2. Jason introduced me to a great breakfast: fried egg on whole wheat toast (fried with Pam, no oil or butter) with a little Creole seas. on top and some days I have a homemade fruit smoothie with protein powder. Of course, tons of water to drink. 3. A good night's sleep. Some of this depends on Caleb but I do the best I can where I have control. 4. Cutting the late-night snacking. When I feel super-tempted, I pop some air-popped popcorn and that helps...plus it's a great source of fiber! Sorry this is a long post but this is really exciting to me and I love that we are supporting each other thru it. Can't wait to see all our progress in the months to come! Good luck and Good work...I'll follow your examples!

No Huntsville Run

Sorry all, I just checked the Huntsville half marathon date and it will be in September, not July. So, it looks like we should try for the Utah Valley half marathon in June. Also, Just in case we don't make the entry cut for the St. George Marathon, do we want to shoot for the Logan Marathon on September 18? The registration for it started on March 1.

Day 2--Brittany

Whohoo Kevin (or should I say Marathon Man)...that is good time on your 3 miles!! Hope your run went well this morning!

Today was my first time running 4 miles...KAPOW! I did stop and do a brisk walk for a quarter mile or so. Total time was about 47 minutes (need to get that pace up!). Feeling good, didn't feel winded, but I did start to get a minor side ache, maybe I should eat something better prior to running. Suggestions??

Thank you for the challenge

Thank you for this great opportunity to improve my health (physically and mentally). I am in my fourth week of training and was progressing pretty good, until three days ago. I ran/walked 3 miles Wednesday morning (31 minutes, 30 seconds) and by that night had achilles tendon pain (tendonitis). So I have accepted my own medical recommendation to you all and have taken the last two days off with ibuprofen (ugh!). I am getting ready to go out and try three miles this morning (Saturday) and see how the old body feels. I love this blog...great accountability tool!

Day 1

Okay so I thought if I can be accountable for my running, maybe I will be more motivated. Let's help each other get there!!!

Day 1- Today was my "rest" day. Stretched, ran 1 mile at an easy rate. Tomorrow is my long run, still shooting for just 4 miles. Hope to gain more soon.