The Run Around
After a few running-related post mentions (like this, this and this), I’ve gotten a bunch of requests to write a more in-depth post about my hobby – so I’m veering off home topics just for today (like we’ve done with hair-cutting, Eminem, nursing, and Clara’s birth story to name a few other times). But don’t worry, I’ll be back with more deck progress on Monday (it’s actually starting to really LOOK LIKE A DECK – you have no idea how exciting that is to us). As for the subject of running, I’ve hesitated to tackle this subject a few times, because although I call myself a “runner” and it’s a hobby I’ve enjoyed for over a decade, I’m certainly no expert. I don’t subscribe to any strict running lifestyle or rigorous routine. But I do run races (usually 10Ks, although I’ve done one half marathon). And I enjoy my Runner’s World subscription (despite Sherry’s jokes that it’s the same articles each month about stretching and running shoes just slightly repackaged).
How I Got Started: I got the running bug my second year of college (2002) after a couple of failed attempts to get into it before that (I never made it past the track team “interest meeting” in high school). It didn’t stick until my roommates (one was already a runner, the other was a newbie like me) welcomed me on their nightly 20-minute jogs one unseasonably warm January. What was different about this attempt? I think because for once the act of running took a backseat to other things like socializing with my friends and enjoying the great outdoors. Shortly after that, another friend convinced me to sign up for a 10K she was doing later that spring – oh the things college guys do for college women. That was Richmond’s Monument Avenue 10k, a race I’ve now done every year since (2012 being my 11th consecutive time). I threw up at the end of that first one, but apparently not enough to turn me off to the whole running thing. Though that girl and I never worked out, fortunately I snagged myself another one…
Why I Run: Let’s start with the usual suspects. I enjoy the fitness benefits of it (mainly it makes me feel better about occasionally eating junk food) and it’s a great stress reliever. I like the self-competitiveness of it – trying to better a race time or run a longer distance. But I actually like it most for the music. Weird, I know. But the main way I kept myself motivated to run through college was so that I could listen to a CD I just bought (remember the Discman?). To this day I geek out making special playlists for each race, crafting it to be just about as long as I think I’ll be running – interspersing slow songs as reminders to pace myself and strategically putting fast beats towards the end to help me keep from fizzling out. I did once get a sarcastic “har-har” from Sherry when I explained that MJ’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” belonged at the beginning of my playlist because that’s when, duh, I’m starting something.
I also like to run for the exploration of it all. My dad (who is 67 and faster than me) likes to run the same loop so he can gauge his pace against familiar landmarks. I, on the other hand, prefer to try out new routes and take random turns just to see where it will take me and what scenery I’ll encounter (one of the reasons Runner’s World’s Rave Runs photos often serve as my laptop’s wallpaper). I love getting “lost” on trails so that I can subconsciously add miles finding my way back. Or weaving through city blocks downtown to check out some of Richmond’s coolest homes. Basically, doing circles around a track is my nightmare. Unless I’ve made a good playlist for it, of course.
My Training Schedule: I’d love to share a running routine with you guys, but I don’t have one. I used to aim for 3 days a week, but now 8-10 times a month is a good month. Part of the reason I sign up for races is to guarantee at least one run in my future – and hopefully a few in advance to make sure my body remembers how to put one foot in front of the other. My most disciplined year was back in 2007, when I really pushed myself to get a good time in the Monument 10k. My 10+ mile training runs paid off with my fastest 10K time yet (and still) at 46:23. It also gave me the confidence to run my first (and only) half marathon two weeks later. That earned me a 1:52:27 time and a case of runner’s knee that has haunted me ever since.
My Goals: I have secret aspirations of doing a marathon sometime in my lifetime, but despite the physical therapy I did after the injury in 2007 – my knee still starts to complain once I get close to double-digit mileage. Sherry also reminds me that some of my first words after completing the half marathon were “Don’t ever let me do a marathon. I can’t imagine having to do this run twice in a row.” But that was five years ago, so I’m thinking of trying to tackle another half sometime soon to see if it leaves me with the same impression.
Ultimately I want to keep running fun. Right now I get a lot of joy from it – whether from music, scenery, a cheering race crowd, a good conversation with a running buddy or just pushing myself that extra mile. So if I never introduce a training regime of speed drills and hill workouts to my calendar, I’d die plenty happy. Just give me my running shoes, my iPod (with the Nike+ app), and perhaps Clara in her jogging stroller and I’ll be one content runner. Well, and I’d love to have Sherry join me too, but the bad ankle she developed from being one of the fastest girls on her track/cross country team as a teen won’t let her do much more than a fast walk without a swollen grapefruit-looking-ankle to show for it.
If I Had To Offer Some Advice: So now that I’ve firmly establish I don’t have the most conventional or regimented outlook on running, I can’t expect you to give much weight to my advice. BUT, just in case someone out there is looking to start running (or just do it more regularly), here’s what I would offer up as a few things to try:
- Figure out what about running makes you happy and plan around that. Is it socializing? Then find a friend to run with. Is it being alone with your thoughts? Find some peaceful, uncrowded trails to lose yourself on. Is it the competition? Sign up for races. Not everyone has to enjoy running for the same reasons, so don’t be shy about embracing yours.
- Don’t push yourself. For most people, any running is better for you than none at all. If you can’t go a mile without taking a walk break, don’t beat yourself up over it. Be proud of the distance you did run and savor the moments you’re walking (I still enjoy a good walk break – notice the red spots on the map above). Who cares if you can’t run a 5K / 10K / half-marathon / marathon / whatever is your unattainable distance? If you spend too much energy lamenting what you can’t do, you won’t put it into relishing what you can.
- Find a race that you can look forward to. I love organized races – whether they’re 5Ks, 10Ks, whatever. They’re pretty much my favorite thing about being a runner. Not only is the energy of the crowd (both of other runners and the people cheering from the sidelines) a great boost, but I also find they’re great motivators to lace up on my own in preparation. So find a race that speaks to you for some reason – the course looks especially fun, it promises great music, it benefits a great cause, or maybe they throw colored cornstarch at you? – and sign up for it. If you don’t know where to find a race, try a local running shop, sporting goods store, or even a local gym for more info. They usually have flyers up.
Okay, now here’s the part where all you other runners (hardcore or casual like me) can raise your virtual hand and tell me a little bit about your running-self. What’s your favorite part about running? How do you keep yourself motivated? Any particular personal best or success stories you wanna share?
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At the risk of sounding a little like a quack…you might want to look into finding a matrix repatterning practitioner. They put muscles back in place, and it’s insane the level of improvement that people experience after even the first appointment. Injuries that seem like they might never go away turn out to be totally treatable. Just a thought :)
(And I agree with Sherry about Runner’s World, but it’s still a fun magazine to read!)
Never even heard of that. So interesting!
xo,
s
As a fellow Wahoo alum, did John ever run the Charlottesville 10-miler?
Also, I was the same way, after the 10-miler, I was proud of myself, but realized that I probably could not do a marathon.
I haven’t yet, but I have heard it’s fun (and hilly)!
xo,
s
Yay Cville, John should DEFINITELY run the 10-miler! It’s a great race :)
john – you should add aqualung by jethro tull (you may be too young to know that song!) to your playlist…i guarantee you will run fast while listening to that song..have fun
Thanks, I’ll have to check it out!
-John
Worst. Song. Ever.
I have been running since I was 4. My parents both did marathons and it was just something you did. The most common misconception of marathon runners is that there fast, well thats wrong. I did my first marathon in 2003, just 3 years after my first knee surgery in 2000. I had another knee surgery in 2008 and just shy of a year i was back at it again. The last couple years with the barefoot running trend I tried it. It was painful for the first couple months, but I didn’t have knee pain which was a first EVER. I ran my first full marathon in my bare foot shoes (I use the vibrams) and I didn’t have any injury unlike the previous 6 marathons with toenails and muscles. I just started getting into triathlons, but I agree running for fun is the best way to go.
I absolutely second the VFF’s/minimalist shoe running. No IT band pain, no foot/heel pain. I’m faster and I have better form, which has all sorts of other benefits. My feet even went from a size 9 (post 3 babies) back to an 8. Wouldn’t go back for the world.
I love my Vibrams, also! Just had a baby 10 months ago and my shoe size went up over a size. Just getting back into things, so I am hoping to reap the benefits of decreased shoe size soon!
I have been treated by a podiatrist for chronic foot pain and it has diminished significantly since switching over to the ‘barefoot’ shoes (which just seems like an oxymoron). I’m sure they aren’t for everyone, but I would recommend giving them a try to anyone suffering from foot pain!
I have to jump in here and say that minimalist shoe running and a forefoot strike have made all the difference for me. I’ve tried getting into running several times in my life and have never had much success sticking with it. Now that I am using the pose technique and a minimalist shoe, I’m running 5 miles several times a week. Hopefully I’ll be tackling a 10k soon and then the half marathon later this year or early next year. :)
I’m totally hopping on this bandwagon. No, I didn’t get the VFF’s due to the actual bandwagon that is going on. I have a bunion which is causing major tendon problems in my left foot to the tune of I could hardly walk for a week after my half marathon this year. I’m trying to avoid surgery and in doing research these were recommended. While things don’t feel 100% I can run and not be in pain the rest of the day, where in my regular sneakers I would do 2 miles and be out of commish. So, I’ve been back in the saddle and just did a succesful 4 miler with my beloved VFF’s! WOO! As for why I love to run and what keeps me motivated? It’s being in shape, feeling accomplished, and loving the time to myself (usually) that keeps me running. Motivation wise, the best thing I have found and what I tell everyone about not burning out is to run to how you feel. If you’re not in it, turn around and go back. Don’t kick yourself for doing a short run. Likewise if you’re really feeling it, go for the longer. I don’t go into my runs with the mentality that I have to hit a certain mark usually, and that makes all the difference.
I think most everyone college girl has done something similar for a college boy. I did the 10k trail run without really knowing what a trail run was on minimal training (i.e. max training run was about 2 miles…).
I think the not pushing yourself too hard it great advice, I tend to get really into it and then get injured/burned out. My one half marathon experience from 2005 has left me emotionally scarred, even if the knee, back, and ankle injuries are mostly healed.
“My one half marathon experience from 2005 has left me emotionally scarred”–ack!!!!
I’ve done 1 marathon (Marine Corps WOO!) and three half marathons. I second the not pushing yourself. I tried to do a marathon in my 20s (I’m 40 now) and got tendonitis and got sidelined for six weeks. When I started running again “competitively” (my 10ks are in the 55 minute range and my halfs are in the 2 hours and 10 minute), I made a promise that I would never run 2 days in a row. I’ve been running injury free for three years now and had a great marathon (finish at a sustainable pace of 12 minute/mile pace).
I love your half marathon story. Mine is basically identical. I ran a 10K a little over a month before my first (and only) half marathon and scored my best time to date. I then attempted the half marathon and like yourself, developed runners knee and now wear a patella strap every time I run a long distance, if you don’t have one yet.. it really makes a difference! It was in the plan to do a full marathon about 3.5 months after the half marathon. Needless to say that did not happen. I am still toying with the idea of doing a full one day, however, I think I may just start with a half again and see how it goes!
Such a timely post for me, and thanks for the info/interesting read. I’m a total newbie to running – I only started “running” (if you can even call it that) maybe a month or 2 ago – I always hated running for running’s sake (plus, I tore my ACL in college and my left knee has never been the same since the surgery) , and I don’t even know what motivated me to try it again, but I’m actually enjoying it! I started the couch to 5k program/app, and so far I love it (I use it in conjunction with the nike + app, since they have different features). The program is really doable. Except I haven’t gotten close to actually doing the 5k distance! So that’s my goal. Hoping to do a race this fall. Would love to do a color run after seeing your post about it, but I checked and there are none nearby. After my next week of the program (the halfway point), I intend to reward myself with purchasing real running sneakers!
So I have no feedback to add, but will be reading everyone else’s comments for motivation!
Karen – sometimes I feel more like a ‘wogger’ than a runner, but I’m still faster than the dude on the couch! ;)
Same here Kristen! I like that…”wogger”…ha!
LOL, yes! I’m definitely wogging! And it’s better than doing nothing, for sure!
I had knee surgery too, and when I started running 4 months ago I had a lot of knee pain. I bought myself a real pair of running shoes (I pronate a little) and it has made all the difference for me. Much less knee pain.
I’m in the same boat! I was always athletic (played soccer and lacrosse in high school) but HATED running. After 2 kids in 2 years, I decided it was time to find something I could do while toting around both little ones, and running was it. I ran my first 5k in April (finished in 42:00, which was under my goal of 45) after doing just a week of the couch to 5k program, and just started the program over again 2 weeks ago to prepare for a 5k in September. New goal is to run the whole thing and finish in 30 minutes!
Thanks for the post, John! I sometimes have to drag myself to run, but once I get out there and do it, it’s such a motivator for future runs:-D And I totally love your playlist idea–I’ll have to try that. I do love me some Britney, Eminem, Maroon 5, Etc ;-)
I loved this post! I just started running in March, and I run about 3 miles 5 days a week (so 15 miles a week). Pretty amazing considering I used to beg my mom to let me stay home when we had to run the mile every year during gym, haha. Who knew ten years after high school that I’d be in my best shape? Not me! :)
And I totally agree about the music. Stomping on each beat kept me really motivated in the beginning! Some songs that I’ve been digging lately on my playlist: “Aha!” by Pentatonix, “Bang Bang” by K’naan (ft. Adam Levine), and “Scream” by Usher. Happy running, everyone!
Hey, Pentatonix! Awesome.
I’m another newbie – I started running two weeks ago, though it’s more like “the slowest jog ever”, interspersed with “running like a bear’s after me” because I get ambitious for half a block. I haven’t used music yet, but clearly that needs to be my next change!
Yay! Like you, John, I like to run, but hate speed work, farklets, reps, blah blah blah… I just want to run, and hopefully get faster through frequency, not hard work. (And so far, simply continuing to lose weight, running more and reminding myself that I can actually run faster is working).
Of course, right now it’s August in south Louisiana and I hate running outside. I can only manage about 3 miles on the treadmill before I have to get away, but I can’t wait until it gets a little cooler and I can head out to start training for my SECOND half marathon in December.
Question — why do you run in cotton? Moving to performance wear was the best decision I made after I started running.
That green shirt I’m wearing in the race crowd pic is a running shirt. I definitely love it. For the color run I used an old short that I wouldn’t mind getting dirty.
-John
Ugh – all my “performance” gear stinks! It never seems to release the sweat smell, no matter how much I wash it. For me, I wear running shorts, and a cotton shirt. I sweat something fearce, but don’t feel much difference between the quick dry and the cotton. Plus, the “Performance” clothes COST A FORTUNE!
To each their own!
Have you tried washing them with white vinegar in the wash? I do that with lots of things…mostly doggy smelling things, but also my workout gear.
Emily- I use about 1/2 cup of white vinegar per load when I wash my workout gear– takes the smell right out (also great for sweaty clothes worn while gardening, stinky towels, etc). Also, check out Target, Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, Ross, and so on for discounted tech gear. My favorite running capris were on clearance for 10 bucks at TJ Maxx, and I wear them for hiking, yoga, running, and biking. $10 well spent!
i read an article (possibly from runner’s world online) that says not to dry your performance gear in the dryer, it sets the smell. i’ll have to try the white vinegar though in addition. i can’t stand to run in cotton (the only thing i’m not looking forward to about my color run), it just absorbs the sweat and gets heavy. i don’t like the feel of running in a heavy, wet shirt. i love my nike sports bras, shirts, and socks.
Not sure if this is going to come up under the right set of comments, but make sure you’re not washing your workout gear with fabric softner. Ruins any anti-stink stuff the fabric has built into it.
Interesting about not putting perf. gear in the dryer… we don’t OWN a dryer (common here in Israel) and my gear doesn’t stink (after washing, that is). Never knew this could be bc of line drying!
Emily- Buy one shirt that is Icebreaker brand and you will never work out in anything else. Yes, it is expensive. I swear to you they don’t smell. When I was living in New Zealand a friend who is an outdoor guide told me she had worn her shirt for a month in the wilderness and it didn’t smell. Since I was reluctant to smell her dirty shirt she paid me $20 (I can never turn down a bet) to prove her point. She was right! It smelt like fabric. Nothing else. I am very active and will never wear anything else but Merino products. ***Don’t put it Icebreaker in the dryer or you will end up with a shirt that would fit a toddler.
Love this departure from the norm post!!! Share many of your sentiments re: running – did the 1/2 marathon thing a couple years ago, felt totally accomplished & so help everyone around me if I ever try a full! Would ya’ll be willing to share your playlist on Spotify?
Yes that playlist in the picture is on spotify so if you search the name in the pic it’ll hopefully come up.
-John
I’m not a big runner, but my parents are (their first date was a run!). From them, I’ve learned how important it is to take care of yourself – while you do need to challenge yourself to improve, you are doing yourself no favors by finishing a run on a fractured foot (my mom’s done this twice) or skipping pre and post-run stretches.
Also, it’s personal – for years I never ran with music, because my parents insisted that it took away from the experience. Whoops! Now I put on a podcast and jog away.
One of my favorite things about being a runner is that we have a pretty great sense of community. I loved reading this post because I love reading about and talking to other runners! And, yes, okay, the Runner’s World articles can be pretty similar from month to month, but couldn’t you say that about every magazine? I still look forward to getting and reading it every month! (Although, somewhat ironically, I read it on the elliptical…)
For the runner’s knee, have you tried incorporating weights and foam rolling into your routine at all? I had my first case of runner’s knee several months ago, but I was able to kick it by taking several weeks off, becoming serious about foam rolling, and adding some leg strengthening into my weekly routine — weighted squats, lunges, single-leg Romanian deadlifts, etc. You’ve probably already tried this, but just in case, I thought I’d pass it on. And I would definitely encourage you to look into a marathon; it’s such a great experience!
A couple of thoughts:
- the Couch to 5K running program is fantastic for people getting started. I thought it was much harder to go from 0 to 3 miles than it was to go from 3 miles to 13 so it’s nice to have a structure to get started
- the Garmin Forerunner GPS watch is fantastic for people like you (and me!) who like exploring while running, although Nike+ serves a similar purpose
I admire your consistency and persistence in running. You’ve given me some thoughts to consider (especially thinking about why I want to run) as I plan to return to running soon.
Oh, and shoes! My cheapskate husband even admits that being fitted for proper running shoes was one of the best things he’s ever done.
I completely agree with all these comments! (3x marathoner here and I still think getting to 3 miles was the hardest and most important part. Building a consistent base is the best way to avoid injury… I used to have knee pain when I ran but it never came back after I built up slowly from walking to running!)
Forgot to add that I love jogging to the soundtrack of a musical. There’s a story to follow and they usually have a good variety of pacing. A little weird and dorky, but no one has to know I’m not listening to hip hop!
I’m not quite a jogger, but I do WALK to musicals! You’re so right about the pacing and stuff. Too funny!
I LOVE running! I think subconciously it’s my brain’s way of getting back at the evil gym teachers I had in high school, or maybe those mean boys that made fun of the fat kid. Seriously, it’s an addiction.
I ran my first half-marathon last December without really training for it (3:00:30), so speed isn’t really my thing and that was definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my entire life (yes, I’d even put it above childbirth). But sooooooo worth it.
Now I’m more casual about it, for the health benefits and for relaxation. I used to run in the evenings but it’s still 108 degrees at 10pm here in Texas so now I try to sneak it in the morning. I feel so much better about myself and it’s a great way to kick start the day.
Now if only I could convince a certain tall, lanky, good-looking hubby of mine to join me then it could be slightly better, I suppose.
But maybe not.
Like you, I enjoy a very random running style. One of my favorite things is to join a friend for a run and see where their path/pace takes me. But the best thing about this hobby is that I don’t need anyone or anything except my running shoes to do it…super simple! Looking forward to a Color Run next month :)
Hey John – thanks for sharing! I’m still a relatively new runner, but finished my first (and potentially ONLY!) half last November in Savannah. I started running to lose weight – and hated every.freaking.minute. After a year, I’ve come to a point where I miss my runs. I try to get out or on the treadmill 3 days a week or so. This summer heatwave has been a killer for me though!
I got a dog in January, and she adores running. She knows when I get my running shoes out, and starts bouncing around and doing spinning jumps in the air! Our runs have been short for now, to get her used to being on a leash. When I go with her, I leave all my gadgets at home. I really look forward to that – no tunes, no runkeeper telling me pace or distance. Just me and my furball. She is sooo happy when we run – all I need anymore. :)
I was always athletic in high school and never really disliked running, but I didn’t come to LOVE it until I got my two dogs. They are both german shorthaired pointers (the dogs of boundless energy) and I was at the end of my rope with them until we started trail running. We happily run 4 miles a day and I am in training for my first half marathon (Surftown in Westerly, RI) coming up in one month!
Aside from the obvious health benefits (lower heart rate, higher “good” cholesterol), I’ve found that I’m sleeping better, have more consistent energy through out the day, and am just a more relaxed person. I haven’t lost a single pound in the 5 months I’ve been running, but I still feel amazing because I know my body is getting stronger
Thanks for the post John, it’s interesting to hear about you guys outside of the house!
I am (was) also a runner, I started running for fitness, then did some 10k’s, a 1/2 marathon and really caught the competitive running bug but I figured the only way I was going to ever get to the marathon goal was to attach my self to something that would forve me to do it so I joined a ‘training team’ through which I raised money for the Arthritis Society and got to meet a fun group to train for a specific race with.
I am a lover of all things Disney, I even got to work there for one of the best years of my life – so what better race than the Disney Marathon!
But no, no – I didn’t just sign up for the marathon, I figured “Go Big or Go Home” and checked the box for the Goofy – a 1/2 marathon on Saturday and the full on Sunday!
I trained my a$$ off, just in the hopes of surviving and in the end I did – no personal best race times but I did finish and can always say that I did!
Unfortunately along with my medals I brought home a serious case of runners knee that won’t allow me to go for much longer than about 20min nowadays but it was a fun period of my life that I can look back on and say I was a competitive runner!
Keep it up, you’ll make it to those 42kms someday! Just remember – the hardest step is the first one out the door!
To the “Don’t Push Yourself” tip, I would add “(But Also Do).” When you’re just getting into running and it feel like absolute death, I agree that you shouldn’t put any speed/distance pressure on yourself, but as that gets more comfortable — and it will, I promise! — you can push the pace with no more effort than the slow, painful first miles. I love that running feels just as hard as it did when I started running but now I’m way faster. And trust me, if I could do it, pretty much anyone can!
(Btw, John, I love half marathons — I’ve probably done 8-10 of them — but the one marathon I ran was one of the two worst experiences of my life [the other was having my wisdom teeth removed]. Just say no!)
I used the couch to 5K program to start running. I can now run 5K without thinking about it, which is amazing since I am the least athletic person out there. I was the one in high school who was ecstatic when I found out phys. ed. was optional.
I haven’t reached the “I love running!” stage yet (It still takes me about 43 minutes to run 5K) but I’m staying at it.
I found a quote yesterday, “Whether it is a 14 minute mile or a 7 minute mile, it is still a mile.” That’s my new mantra.
That’s a great quote. It’s true!
-John
Great quote!
That is AWESOME. I love that quote. It’s just perfect.
Hey John, Cool running post. I saw this recently and have passed it along to people I know who run. It’s from The Onion and it’s pretty hilarious. Keep up the running and maybe you will do a marathon. As they say, if you can do 3 miles than you can do 26.2. It really is one of those great accomplishments but it’s definitely more fun to have run a marathon than the act of actually running one! In that respect it’s a lot like writing, which is something you guys know about too. The process isn’t always fun, but seeing the finished project completed is great. Here’s the link:
http://www.theonion.com/articles/im-truly-sorry-for-this-but-youre-about-to-hear-al,28995/?ref=auto
Hahahaha, we more both cracking up reading it!
xo,
s
Interesting post! I enjoy finding out what bloggers’ other hobbies are. I am a runner, too. I’m kind of new to the sport. I ran in high school forcedly, in college casually, and now a bit more seriously – I ran my first half marathon in May and I’m doing my second this Sunday.
Psst, Sherry – a Garmin might make a great gift for John!
John has a fun GPS iPhone app that he loves (called Nike plus). He even hears cheers in his headphones when friends/fam “like” when he’s running on Facebook. It’s hilarious.
xo,
s
Actually I just started running. I have run three 5ks so far and my last time was 41 minutes. I have been doing the couch to 5 k app on my phone. I don’t really enjoy running but I guess that’s because I am not a great runner yet. I will get there if I keep it up. I just realized after my last race that I should save my bibs. I love the picture of all of them together. This would be great to frame.
Hi John – what a great post! I love your chronicles of how you got into running and what keeps you motivated. I was an avid runner in my 40s – mostly 10 and 12 k races. My previous employer Sallie Mae sponsored a 10k run every year in the spring in downtown DC. It was a nice flat course with unbelieveable views. I ran it for 10 years straight trying to beat my time every year. Then my knees started giving me trouble and that was the end for me. Now I power walk with my playlist guiding my pace. I also wear a walkfit vest to make it a bit more of a challenge. Maybe oneday I will get back into it one day…..thanks for sharing!!!
~dt~
My favorite line I ever hear when asked what was your time for a race was “I had a great time!”. It didn’t matter to them what time they got, all that mattered is that they were out doing something they enjoyed. That has stayed with me a long time. If only we all could focus on the enjoyment of the tasks vs how fast we went.
But for you, nice job! Keep it up!
Are you starting out too fast? The map shows green at the beginning, and then it tapers off. Try starting off a bit slower and see if you can extend that green section for a bit longer.
I’m training right now for the Bourbon Chase Relay Race in KY and the Marine Corp Marathon in Oct in DC. It will be my 3rd marathon, though my 4th attempt (Nashville this spring was just too hot so I downgraded to a half). I’m really hoping for a personal best since the weather will be nice and it’s less hilly than what I’m used to.
My best advice when you want to train for a marathon is to train with a running group. That will give the motivation needed to get the runs in. I think that so many people are capable of running a marathon, as long as they put in the work 3-4 days a week for 16 weeks beforehand.
Is your knee pain related to the IT Band (outter edge of the knee)? If so, foam rollers are essential. Mine was $12 at the runner’s store. You Tube has videos of how to use them. Keep with it! I loved hearing about your running experience.
I think the green beginning was just a function of the route I took that time. It was downhill at the beginning and then got hillier and more intense!
-John
I used to run track and play tennis in high school so yes those were my golden years and I can admit it. Long gone but not forgotten. I tried running again after having my kids but quickly realized those days are also behind me. Nowadays I power walk like a Seinfeld character all over my neighborhood and I find that it is just as fulfilling as when I was running relays and clearing hurdles and it keeps me lookin’ fancy. Oh! And by my senior year I developed some serious shin splints and I would get the “tingles” so bad all over my legs by the end of practice I would look like a meth addict from all the itching going on. Thanks for the memories John. :o)
My best, Lynn
thanks john, I always feel guilty next to the totally motivated half marathon runners, but truth is: I only started half a year ago, I recently ran a 5k so that’s something.
But then I got sick for two weeks and motivation left me. After reading your text I just signed up for a night run in 2 month, and it’s true: having a run in your future motivates to get in shape :) So thanks!
I am gradually learning to call myself a runner, even though I still walk more than I run. I agree that organized races are the BEST thing about running. I have walked most of mine, but they are still the ultimate motivator to get out there and keep training so that the race won’t be so painful!
I just recently downloaded a run tracker app to my phone and now it is my favorite thing to see how far and how fast I just went.
I never listen to music, I prefer to spend the time quietly pondering whatever may be going on in my life. And the combination of solitude and physical exercise is tonic for my mental health.
I have done one full marathon (Los Angeles Marathon way back in 1999) and am signed up for another one at Disney this January…wish me luck!
Here are photos of my medals…I may be a bit of a RunDisney freak. lol
http://tinyurl.com/8oamq78
http://tinyurl.com/9o4tq49
Good luck in January!!
-John
Thanks! I figure the more people I tell the more accountable I am to actually FINISH! Ha!
I totally relate to this post!
I rarely even call myself a “runner”… A friend once told me to get over it and call myself a runner already– it’s an empowering noun. It really doesn’t matter how far you run, or how quickly. Being a runner simply means you are disciplined, strong, and dedicated to staying healthy and in shape. So my 11 minute miles in a 10k still qualify someone as a runner!
The best advice I give to people just starting out:
1) invest in some high quality socks (I really dig SmartWool PhD running socks);
2) get some Body Glide for things that might rub (be it shoes, thighs, whatever)- it’s sold at any running store and even some sporting goods stores;
3) for the ladies, invest in wicking compression capris or shorts. Life-changing.
Keep up your healthy habit, and kudos on taking Clara in her jogging stroller. She will know how to live a healthy lifestyle because of you, and there’s no better gift to give a child. :-)
Running is such a HUGE passion of mine. One of my biggest fears is that I wouldn’t be able to run at least three miles whenever I want. There is nothing more fulfilling after a long day at work then putting on my running shoes, grabbing my headset and hitting the pavement. Music is a HUGE part of my running. I’ve done without, but I just don’t run as far or as well. I need my mojo! I teach spinning classes and have noticed that spinning helps my endurance on the long runs. I’ve ran a half before, tempted to do another one, but I feel pretty good with running for an hour. Great post on running! Thanks for sharing.
John,
Thank you SO MUCH for this, especially the last part about figuring out what you love about running, embracing that, and not lamenting what you can’t do!
I love the part of running that gets me outdoors on quiet trails, with or without music. I also love how I feel after a good sprint at the end of a run, whatever the total distance. I had forgotten that – I haven’t run regularly since I got plantar faciitis in my right foot while training for a New Year’s Eve 5K in Minnesota three years ago (yes, it’s as insane as it sounds, but so much fun to tell people your ran in the middle of winter in Minnesota, plus training for it taught me my lower limit for running temp – 20F is as low as I go!).
I keep trying to start running again, but we’ve moved since then and I don’t have access to the same quiet parks, and the weather was hot and humid. I thought it was having a second kid that kept me from running, but now reading this, I realized it’s not the kids – it’s the fact that my favorite part of running, the peaceful park-y trails in relatively pleasant weather, was missing. We’re in the middle of another move that will be taking us closer to where I can get that kind of trail again, so now I have hope that I can start again with the healed injury and a better trail in a cooler climate!
and that’s not -20F, just plain 20F. :-)
Haha, gotcha!
-John
as a former Minnesotan who’s transplanted to Florida, i totally understand your love of the quiet parks and how much they’re missed when they’re gone. hope your upcoming move brings you somewhere (almost) as nice as MN!
I LOVE running. I love the accessibility of keeping shorts, a tank top, socks and runners in the trunk of my car and having the possibility of absolutely anywhere being my track. I do it for fitness and head space. Sometimes I like borrowing other people’s iPods to mix up my music rotation. The ONLY time I like dirty rap music is while running! I keep myself motivated with registering for races and community runs…. and with snazzy, jazzy running shoes. So many fun colours lately!! I’m a dedicated Asics girl for running.
I am no runner. Or exerciser really. I prefer the Sherry method. Walk with the baby and try to be active around the house.
The hubs however, is a runner. He LOVES it. He doesn’t do the 5k or 10k road races. Have you ever looked into doing a tough mudder? He did a half marathon one and said he could have done it twice in the same day. It wasn’t bad because each mile is separated by some kind of crazy obstacle that takes a few minutes so you get some time to get your breath back. And it’s fun. And all the proceeds go towards the Wounded Warrior Project. It’s pricey, but would make an awesome addition to your collection.
That sounds fun!
-John
Natalie, you guys must be in a warmer climate if your hubs could have done it twice in one day. My hubs,brother and friend did the Tough Mudder when it was about 40* out and raining the entire day (Cleveland area). Not a single person wanted to be out there longer than they had to be. Everyone ended up running with those foil blankets wrapped around them it was so cold. They’re doing the Virginia Beach one next year! haha! Vacation! =)
I LOVE RUNNING!!! I was a soccer player for 13 years as a kid and have now really gotten into running. I had knee surgery at 20 (now I’m 26) and that really deflated my athletic spirit for a while, but I kept working at it and working at it and now I’m in better shape than I was when I was 16.
My family are really active runners too (and yes, my step dad at 61 is also way faster than me). We ran a 52 mile relay in Hawaii called the Road to Hana and it seriously was one of the greatest experiences of my life
http://www.picardyproject.com/2010/09/road-to-hana.html
And over a year ago I competed in my first (and most likely only also) half marathon. I too thought I was going to die. But I was shooting for 1:55 and I got 1:48! (and I will give all the credit to my boyfriend’s great training schedule and the amazing pacing of my step dad)
Now I stick with 5k’s because my body just can’t handle longer distances (bad knees, etc.) But I really enjoy getting faster and faster. My best time is 21:11 and I REALLY want to hit under 21 minutes, but recently I got a stress fracture from upping my training so much. But what can I say, becoming a sweaty, dirty mess after a good work out becomes addicting :)
Keep up the good work!
YOU need to come down to Raleigh for the Krispy Kreme challenge sometime. It’s a fundraiser for a children’s hospital put together by some Park Scholarship alumns from NC State. Basically, you run round trip 5 miles from campus to the local Krispy Kreme downtown where you have to eat a dozen glazed donuts before you can run back.
I’m not anything near a runner, but I had gotten into pretty good shape a few years ago, losing 100lbs before I had my son. My goal is to get into good enough shape to run the challenge, donuts and all. My husband, who is also not a runner but has had great success with the Couch to 5k, is not willing to do the donut eating part, but you can still run the race anyway, and you get a free dozen donuts. You can even run with jogging strollers!
That sounds hilarious and I love that it’s for a good cause.
-John
That sounds like the most amazing race EVER.
LOVE the Krispy Kreme challenge! I’m in Raleigh too (Go Pack) and it’s fun to run or just to watch everyone else run/stuff their face.
There could be some pretty sweet house crashing action in the 5points area of Raleigh…….just sayin’
I’m not a runner at all… I honestly get shin splints thinking about running, but I’m challenging myself this year and getting on the wagon and signed up for an Adventure Run called One Tough Cookie September 15th and then the Color Me Rad Run here in Madison, WI in October, wish me luck!!
Lots of luck!
-John
Definitely check out the ease into 5k app. It’s a couch to 5k program that uses walking and running intervals (starting with just 30 seconds of running at a time!) to slowly increase your endurance. I LOVE it!
As a fellow runner, I’m always happy to hear people love to run, and don’t take themselves too seriously.
That’s all, carry on. ; )
(Also we are half marathon time twins!! This spring I put up a 1:52:15 half. We’re AWESOME.)
The paths to Pony Pasture are at the end of my parent’s street. Running alone (with my yellow lab, Barley) with my ipod in, analyzing my life.. that was my favorite past time when I lived in Richmond.
I am moving home, to Richmond, and starting a new job with Amazon on September 4th. Even though my Barley dog, my running buddy, is no longer with us, I hope I can start running again. And who knows, maybe some day soon I’ll be able to get another lab, perhapys I’ll name him Hops.:)
Running was one of the only ways I could find peace, and I can’t wait to have that feeling again!
Aw Barley sounded like a great running partner. So sorry for your loss. I love those trails by Pony Pasture!
-John
I love the name Hops after having Barley :-) It’s a much better name than Yeast!
I ran my first marathon almost two years ago, and absolutely loved it! I’ve run 4 half marathons and am signed up for my next half and full in October. I’m no speed demon, but the sense of accomplishment is amazing. It definitely helped that my best friend ran the last six miles of the marathon with me. I don’t think I would have finished without her.
I also don’t run with headphones. I love the feeling of peace and quiet when running. I also live in a city – so it’s important to be aware of the sounds around me when I get to an intersection etc.
Have you considered triathlons? Yes, you need a road bike, but not a fancy one. I have found that the cross training improves my running and prevents injury (especially knee injury). It also gives you something else to do when it’s too hot to run, and you can see even more of the city. Sprint triathlons are a great way to start.
I also feel that yoga does wonders for running!
I have thought about it hit I’m not as strong at swimming. Sherry and I joke that we’d make a great tri team since she was a competitive swimmer in high school and I could do the running part. And maybe we could bike together?
-John
We have a triathlon in our area that is canoe/kayak, run, bike. I had done it a few times – it is super fun. I don’t think I will ever do a traditional triathlon since I’m not a great swimmer either.
http://www.littlemiamitriathlon.com/html/triathlon.html
there actually ARE team tris where one member does each leg! :)
I’m down!
xo,
s
I’ve heard of certain triathlons where people can in fact split the race :) At least out here in Cali :)
Cool! My sister and I are running the Richmond half-marathon on Nov 10th . You doing that? We’re from the DC-area and I’ve never been to Richmond so we’re looking forward to it. We run for fun and I’m pretty slow. I kinda run races for the free food at the end :P
We’ll be away on book tour stuff but it sounds really fun. Good luck!
-John
Oh – forgot to add that full-marathons are kinda miserable. I’ve only done two. The last six miles are not a good time. I encourage you to try it at least once though, just so you can enjoy that misery yourself. Being slow, I ran a 4:39 marathon which made the last 6 miles even more torturous.
Be sure to cross-train too! It will help keep injuries at bay. Yoga, elliptical, deck building, whatever suits your fancy – just make it a part of your training. I’ve run 3 marathons and several halves – after my first half, I said “I can’t imagine running that again” – well, DUH. You run a marathon slower than your half AND you train for it; no wonder I said what I did after running and training only for a half. 9 months after my first half, I ran my first marathon and loved every minute of it (okay, not every minute – it hurt – mentally, physically – but it was absolutely exhilarating to finish). Also, I think someone commented on runners don’t have to be fast – and this is totally true yet a hard thing to get over for new runners. Don’t let intimidation get in your way – run at your pace for that day. Also, if you are meeting up with someone to run with, the general runner’s code is to run at the slower person’s pace (and no resentment allowed!).
Thanks for sharing this!
Oddly enough, my first and only organised run was a marathon. It totally kicked my butt, but I really wanted to complete a marathon as a mental challenge. I’m a performer (singer) and a lot of managing nerves on stage is a mental game. The fact that I could get my body to continue running when my brain and body were both screaming STOP was indeed a fantastic mental challenge to over come!
Now I run for exercise and for the feeling of freedom I get from it. Especially when I’m stressed out, the idea of running really fast on an open road is so appealing and comforting.
I don’t think I’d do another marathon, but after a baby and now being in my thirties, a 10K sounds about right. ;)
I really enjoy running races because it feels like such an accomplishment when I’m done. I’ve never been a runner, I’ve always preferred swimming and my knees don’t always take kindly to beating the pavement. But, my finance (he just did the Disney Marathon in January) and 2 of his brothers have started a tradition of doing the Broad Street Run in Philly. It’s a 10-mile run that goes right through Philly. It’s become quite a family event, we tailgate after and everything so it’s secretly been a goal for me to do it. Finally, this past May I did it, bad knees and all in 1:37, I was so pumped. I’m looking forward to next year and hoping to improve my time and have less knee pain.
I have an on again, off again relationship with running. I am trying to improve my 5k pace after just runningone of the slowest 5ks in my life. Two of my friends and I have a challenge to do 45 miles in 4 weeks. It is more of a personal challenge, but if we don’t make our goal, we have to treat the others to a movie. I’ve signed up for an 8k Labor Day weekend, a 5k monster dash (planning my Halloween costume) in October, a 10k in November, and the color run in Charlotte in November. I’m a social runner so I signed up for a walking/running group here in Raleigh that starts in a few weeks. I’m not really sure how I’ll fare at the 8k since I am only able to run about 20 minutes straight. I may have to do walk /runs to complete it… But that’s ok. I like to say I am built for comfort not for speed. Oh, and your playlist looks really similar to mine!
I’m not much of a competitive person so I run for the stress relief (which I need because of work), the health benefits and because I love that quiet alone time every morning. I don’t even listen to music anymore.
This is too funny! My blog post today is also about running… with my dog. He’s pretty good motivation and keeps me laughing most of the way. We’re both rather new to the hobby, but I’m enjoying it so far!
Sherry’s opinion of Runner’s World is the same as mine for my husband’s Golf Digest. Seriously don’t know how there can be THAT much info on golf!
Ha! I hear you! Its the same articles about golf swing and such! :) I guess my glamour mag just offers new makeup tips and such..haha