Author Topic: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread  (Read 18069 times)

marty998

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Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« on: January 31, 2021, 02:10:30 PM »
I’m not even sure what happened to the 2020 thread! But for those of you not in lockdown, let’s talk about 2021 goals and improvements.

My January total was 236km, which is by far and away my highest monthly total ever, and included 5x 18km long runs at about 5:50/km pace, and 4x 5km’s in ~22:40 (Parkrun is back!)

Very happy with that, hope to keep it going in Feb.

The cancelled 2020 marathon I signed up for last year is scheduled again in April. That’s the next goal.

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #1 on: March 15, 2021, 05:04:26 PM »
That's an awesome total!

I'm a new runner, I started in the summer of 2020 at age 34 and I was averaging 70 miles/month (112 km) from October 2020 to January 2021.

I ran a half marathon in mid January and then a couple weeks afterwards I started feeling some nagging knee pain, so I've been taking it easy, trying more stretching/foam rolling/strength training to recover. I just started running 1 mile (1.6 km) every couple of days to get back into it.

My 2021 process goals are:
-Run 4 times per week for 30 minutes or more
-Run 1 time per week for 60 minutes or more
-Do 1 hard run with fast intervals or hills once a week

2021 Outcome based goals:
-Run a sub 2 hour half marathon
-Run a sub 25 minute 5k

Morning Glory

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #2 on: March 15, 2021, 06:57:40 PM »
I like running but I'll admit to being a weekend warrior. Doing my best to get 3 runs per week because it really boosts my mental health. After the end of April I'll have a lot more free time to try some new routes. I like dirt trails and gravel roads the best. I can run 90 minutes but I'm not fast.  Over the years I've sporadically gotten up to half marathon distance and been able to go a lot faster, but that takes more discipline than I can give right now. I have a relative who didn't start running until age 40 and is now 50 and running ultras.

Goals:
Try some new routes
Don't stress about it
Do my strength training at least 1x week
Remember that a short run is better than no run
Run a 10k once they have one here
Stretch goal: 1/2 marathon by end of year

I need some advice on how to warm up my ankles. They feel really sore for the first ten minutes or so and then they settle down. My normal route starts with an uphill section (much better than ending with it lol). I am wearing Brooks Ghost for now but Saucony Ride series is my favorite.


marty998

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #3 on: March 18, 2021, 02:41:25 AM »
Ankles (and knees) will hurt till you get into a habit of running. Mine did when I started but they no longer do.

Just going running seems to me the best way to build strength into them (but don’t take my word for it, I’m not a physio.

____________

I didn’t keep up the Jan efforts in Feb. The mileage was slightly down, but I did get a good 30km hit out in. I’m March so far we’ve been hit by a lot of rain, and I’ve had other activities so the body has had a bit of a rest.

But with three weeks to go I’m in pretty good shape for the marathon.

cerat0n1a

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #4 on: March 18, 2021, 08:24:36 AM »
I'm doing a fairly consistent 50km or so per week, nearly all in the countryside, which is extremely muddy at the moment, looking forward to some nice weather and harder ground. We're supposed to exercise locally during current lockdown, so I've been doing a load of different 20-25km runs each Sunday out to different villages in the area. Although I've been running in the area for more than a decade, I still occasionally find new paths, new bits of forest or small hills, a farmhouse or cottage I haven't seen before that keeps it interesting and there's always a chance of seeing deer, foxes or other wildlife.

No races planned. Hopefully parkrun gets going here again from June and an autumn marathon can be on the card.

Pretty decent parkrun times, marty - are you looking for a sub-4hr marathon?

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #5 on: March 18, 2021, 08:55:56 AM »
Terrible 2021 for me. Stopped running over the winter when it got really cold in NY, and haven't ran in almost three months now.

Keep procrastinating that firsts mile back. How do you motivate yourselves after a prolonged hiatus?

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #6 on: March 18, 2021, 10:36:21 AM »
Ankles (and knees) will hurt till you get into a habit of running. Mine did when I started but they no longer do.

Just going running seems to me the best way to build strength into them (but don’t take my word for it, I’m not a physio.

____________

I didn’t keep up the Jan efforts in Feb. The mileage was slightly down, but I did get a good 30km hit out in. I’m March so far we’ve been hit by a lot of rain, and I’ve had other activities so the body has had a bit of a rest.

But with three weeks to go I’m in pretty good shape for the marathon.

@marty998 you'll have to let us know how the marathon goes! I wish you good temperatures, no chafing, and a nice cold drink at the finish!

Also, what does parkrun mean?

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #7 on: March 18, 2021, 10:39:08 AM »
Terrible 2021 for me. Stopped running over the winter when it got really cold in NY, and haven't ran in almost three months now.

Keep procrastinating that firsts mile back. How do you motivate yourselves after a prolonged hiatus?

Start slow and easy, just do a mile, 1 mile and it's much easier to convince yourself to do it because it's a minimal time commitment. Maybe go tell some friends/family (this thread) that you're going to go for a run so you feel some sense of obligation to follow through with it.

You got this!

Morning Glory

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #8 on: March 18, 2021, 11:32:39 AM »
Terrible 2021 for me. Stopped running over the winter when it got really cold in NY, and haven't ran in almost three months now.

Keep procrastinating that firsts mile back. How do you motivate yourselves after a prolonged hiatus?

Last fall/early winter I had a very severe anxiety disorder and felt a lot better if I was moving. I was able to do four miles at once after a two-year hiatus, and got up to 9 miles within about a month. I was not eating or sleeping much during that time either, and I didn't care if I got cold.  I had been biking all summer so my cardio fitness was good, but I was still surprised at how long I could run.  Now that I've got medication and my moods are a bit more stable I have not been pushing myself as hard with the running, nor am I as motivated.  I can still do about seven miles but I sometimes have to walk on the uphill bits, depending on what time of day I go.

cerat0n1a

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #9 on: March 18, 2021, 12:57:19 PM »
Also, what does parkrun mean?

It's a free, timed 5k run that happens every Saturday morning run by volunteers - pretty big phenomenon here in Britain, and has successfully taken off in other European countries and in Australia/NZ. There's nearly 400 events in Australia, more than 1000 in the UK. You enter your details on their website once, print off a barcode and you can then just turn up and run at any parkrun in the world any weekend you like and your times are recorded on the website. Generally a very supportive ethos, which over time has shifted much more to participation/encouragement of people walking as well as running and moved away from calling itself a race, although it sure looks like a race to the people going round in 16 minutes or so at the front of my local events.

For whatever reason, it seems to have been much slower to get going in the US. Possibly more concerns about insurance/legal liability, fewer suitable public parks or venues, maybe less of a culture of volunteering, maybe better alternatives?

https://www.parkrun.com/countries/
« Last Edit: March 18, 2021, 12:58:59 PM by cerat0n1a »

Morning Glory

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #10 on: March 18, 2021, 01:14:06 PM »
Also, what does parkrun mean?

It's a free, timed 5k run that happens every Saturday morning run by volunteers - pretty big phenomenon here in Britain, and has successfully taken off in other European countries and in Australia/NZ. There's nearly 400 events in Australia, more than 1000 in the UK. You enter your details on their website once, print off a barcode and you can then just turn up and run at any parkrun in the world any weekend you like and your times are recorded on the website. Generally a very supportive ethos, which over time has shifted much more to participation/encouragement of people walking as well as running and moved away from calling itself a race, although it sure looks like a race to the people going round in 16 minutes or so at the front of my local events.

For whatever reason, it seems to have been much slower to get going in the US. Possibly more concerns about insurance/legal liability, fewer suitable public parks or venues, maybe less of a culture of volunteering, maybe better alternatives?

https://www.parkrun.com/countries/

we need this here!!!!

mspym

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #11 on: March 18, 2021, 03:24:09 PM »
Fingers crossed that my run of ankle sprains is healing up. I've been pretty consistent on the 5-6km every second day. It helps with the motivation that the household running buddy is a small bossy dog that needs a daily run. I would love to do park runs but I am either running with the dog or having a recovery day.

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #12 on: March 18, 2021, 03:42:03 PM »
Also, what does parkrun mean?

It's a free, timed 5k run that happens every Saturday morning run by volunteers - pretty big phenomenon here in Britain, and has successfully taken off in other European countries and in Australia/NZ. There's nearly 400 events in Australia, more than 1000 in the UK. You enter your details on their website once, print off a barcode and you can then just turn up and run at any parkrun in the world any weekend you like and your times are recorded on the website. Generally a very supportive ethos, which over time has shifted much more to participation/encouragement of people walking as well as running and moved away from calling itself a race, although it sure looks like a race to the people going round in 16 minutes or so at the front of my local events.

For whatever reason, it seems to have been much slower to get going in the US. Possibly more concerns about insurance/legal liability, fewer suitable public parks or venues, maybe less of a culture of volunteering, maybe better alternatives?

https://www.parkrun.com/countries/

we need this here!!!!

Agreed this would be great! It probably hasn't caught on because of a combination of all the reasons @cerat0n1a listed, plus it would compete against all the charity and non-charity 5k events that happen throughout the year. I wonder if I could get my local running club to help support/promote it once we get covid more under control. I'll have to keep this in mind if I'm traveling to a location that has a group already going.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #13 on: March 18, 2021, 06:07:38 PM »
Thanks for motivation friends! I finally remembered to turn on the run tracking app on my phone today. I got 9.7 miles, average pace was 11.33 but I was walking quite a bit toward the end. My first few miles were 10.30- ish. Gentle hills, temp was 50F so I was taking my gloves and hoodie on and off multiple times depending on wind direction. I didn't intend to go that far but I turned down an unfamiliar road and the next turnoff was farther than expected. Mood is much improved. Ankles are ok but I started getting arch pain towards the end.

marty998

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #14 on: March 19, 2021, 08:28:46 PM »
Also, what does parkrun mean?

It's a free, timed 5k run that happens every Saturday morning run by volunteers - pretty big phenomenon here in Britain, and has successfully taken off in other European countries and in Australia/NZ. There's nearly 400 events in Australia, more than 1000 in the UK. You enter your details on their website once, print off a barcode and you can then just turn up and run at any parkrun in the world any weekend you like and your times are recorded on the website. Generally a very supportive ethos, which over time has shifted much more to participation/encouragement of people walking as well as running and moved away from calling itself a race, although it sure looks like a race to the people going round in 16 minutes or so at the front of my local events.

For whatever reason, it seems to have been much slower to get going in the US. Possibly more concerns about insurance/legal liability, fewer suitable public parks or venues, maybe less of a culture of volunteering, maybe better alternatives?

https://www.parkrun.com/countries/

we need this here!!!!

Agreed this would be great! It probably hasn't caught on because of a combination of all the reasons @cerat0n1a listed, plus it would compete against all the charity and non-charity 5k events that happen throughout the year. I wonder if I could get my local running club to help support/promote it once we get covid more under control. I'll have to keep this in mind if I'm traveling to a location that has a group already going.

Yes I understand from reading some of the FB discussion groups that Americans are distrustful of anything that is free (it must be a scam or socialism!)... so if Parkrun were to charge a nominal $1 per run you guys might turn up in droves :)

I absolutely love it. Parkrun "touristing" is starting to catch on. Councils and local authorities will support a parkrun in the area because it brings in tourists who are trying to knock off some of the informal challenges (like doing a parkrun starting with every letter of the alphabet, or doing all parkruns in a state or region).

When they stay for a post-run coffee afterwards it also supports the local businesses.

It's all about participation, making new friends and getting out on a Saturday morning and having a bit of fun. Today I turned up to mine and it was absolutely bucketing down rain - we've had a torrential week and it got even worse this morning. But parkrun goes ahead regardless unless a course is deemed dangerous.

My little goal is to do every parkrun in NSW... but that is quite the challenge when you're not yet FIREd and can't get to some far flung places by 8am on Saturday!

The clock never lies. If you need to keep yourself accountable, a weekly timed 5k is highly recommended :)
« Last Edit: March 19, 2021, 08:31:16 PM by marty998 »

marty998

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #15 on: March 19, 2021, 08:38:14 PM »
@racquetcat there are unfortunately none in Kansas at this point, but there are 2 next door in Colorado! South Boulder Creek and Aspen.

https://www.parkrun.us/
https://www.parkrun.us/events/#geo=3.93/38.01/-97.63

See here for all the details for the US and the list of events.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #16 on: March 20, 2021, 05:03:55 PM »
5.5 miles today at a pace of 10:30, not bad. Stopped to look at the birds by the reservoir.

mspym

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #17 on: March 20, 2021, 06:00:51 PM »
Ran a bit over 5 km this morning in the rain, occasionally dropping to a walk on sections that were super flipping treacherous (downhill, streaming with rain, covered in slimy leaves) as I didn't want to risk another sprain if Honey took it into her head to chase a cat or startle at a magpie. It's funny, when it's rainy, I find it less miserable to be running than walking. Probably because I am focusing on something other than the weather. It's the same as not noticing the cold water if I am snorkelling.

cerat0n1a

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #18 on: March 21, 2021, 02:43:53 AM »
When they stay for a post-run coffee afterwards it also supports the local businesses.

It's all about participation, making new friends and getting out on a Saturday morning and having a bit of fun.

I think this is what has made it so successful. I started doing parkrun back in 2011. If you run 5k at the same time, same place with a few hundred other people, you eventually get to know some of them, particularly if you stick around for a coffee at the end, or if you take your turn to be a volunteer marshall, timekeeper or whatever every few weeks or months. There's now 4 parkruns within a few miles of my house where I could turn up and be guaranteed of seeing at least a few people I know to talk to. Closest one to me is nothing special - some muddy fields behind a school in a fairly rundown area, no cafe, no toilets or other facilities. Next closest is in the grounds of a mental health hospital (former 19th century lunatic asylum). But others are in beautiful parks, or countryside.

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #19 on: April 01, 2021, 11:19:37 AM »
Monthly distance update!

January-76.5 miles over 14 runs
February-0.9 miles - I hurt my knee so I started a stretching and strength routine to aid in recovery.
March-15.7 miles over 12 runs. I'm continuing to do strength training 3 days per week. I'm slowly increasing the distance as long as my knee continues to feel okay.

Let's hear about your March distance! I'm looking forward to warmer weather and getting that shirt drenching sweat after a nice hard run!!!

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #20 on: April 02, 2021, 01:21:33 PM »
Cool!  I somehow missed the Throw Down the Gauntlet section over the past several years, and now I'm jumping in all over the place! :)

I stopped running over the winter up here (Nova Scotia) but I did a couple runs last week.  We got a spin bike for Christmas, and I used that ~3x a week during the winter so I felt good running.

Can I ask a stupid question -- how do you all track your distance?  Do you map it out or use a fitbit or similar?  I haven't mapped my usual lunchtime route, and I often "freestyle" around the down and surrounding environs, so I'm pretty lousy at knowing distances. 

I typically run for ~25 minutes or so, usually at lunch, which I would guess is probably about a 5K.  I like 10Ks, and I used to run longer but I had plantar fasciitis a while back and I don't want it again.  I have always been slow, but I'm steady. :)

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #21 on: April 02, 2021, 04:40:34 PM »
I am pretty new to running - started up last spring as a way to get some alone time with the COVID lockdowns and to get our dog out for some off-leash time.

I LOVE trail running on the (technically shared use) mountain bike trails in the early mornings. Unfortunately, our snow has just started to melt so running on the trails is still a few weeks out at the earliest. In the last couple of weeks, I have started getting out for some shorter runs alongside the river but running on the flats is not something I find particularly interesting and it makes my knees a bit sore compared to the trails in the trees!

Let's hear about your March distance! I'm looking forward to warmer weather and getting that shirt drenching sweat after a nice hard run!!!

Totals for March:
Nordic Skiing - 20 km (only got out 3 times)
Running - 32.5 km (6 runs - 2 longer and 4 short ones)

Can I ask a stupid question -- how do you all track your distance?  Do you map it out or use a fitbit or similar?  I haven't mapped my usual lunchtime route, and I often "freestyle" around the down and surrounding environs, so I'm pretty lousy at knowing distances. 

On my phone, I use the Free Strava app set to Private. It works really well - when I remember to turn it on that is! I also got a Samsung Active 2 watch last year, and have the same app on it as well. It is nice to ditch the phone but still have the time, music and an app to track distance.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #22 on: April 02, 2021, 09:11:08 PM »
I ran my fist half marathon last week since 2016. I’ve been running so much during the pandemic it was the first time I wasn’t really sore afterwards. Time could have been faster of course. Would like to do another soon.

marty998

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #23 on: April 04, 2021, 06:40:41 PM »
Garmin plus the runtastic app. It’s kinda scary how much data they scrape and come to learn about you, but that’s the price you pay.

I got to about 140km in March, well down on the previous month again, but two solid weeks of bad weather put a full stop to the training plan.

Had a good weekend just now covering 40km across three runs. Feet up for the next few days before the marathon this coming weekend. A little undertrained compared to what I wanted to be, but I should still be able to put in a decent effort.

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #24 on: April 04, 2021, 07:38:04 PM »
Cool!  I somehow missed the Throw Down the Gauntlet section over the past several years, and now I'm jumping in all over the place! :)

I stopped running over the winter up here (Nova Scotia) but I did a couple runs last week.  We got a spin bike for Christmas, and I used that ~3x a week during the winter so I felt good running.

Can I ask a stupid question -- how do you all track your distance?  Do you map it out or use a fitbit or similar?  I haven't mapped my usual lunchtime route, and I often "freestyle" around the down and surrounding environs, so I'm pretty lousy at knowing distances. 

I typically run for ~25 minutes or so, usually at lunch, which I would guess is probably about a 5K.  I like 10Ks, and I used to run longer but I had plantar fasciitis a while back and I don't want it again.  I have always been slow, but I'm steady. :)

Slow and steady is definitely my style, I'm a self proclaimed "turtle racer"!

To track distance I've used my phone with several apps: Nike running, strava, and under armour running app, of those I probably liked the Nike or under armour apps the best. I've ditched the phone and now use a Garmin forerunner 45 watch. It's on the lower end of what Garmin produces, but I mostly wanted it to track running and steps and it does a good job of tracking both of those. Its got a pretty simplistic design and fewer bells and whistles, but I'm okay with that. I really like the Garmin connect app that it syncs with on my phone.

marty998

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #25 on: April 15, 2021, 04:33:45 AM »
Woo hoo! I ran 4:10 and wound up with a 19 minute PB for the marathon on the weekend! Average pace was about 5:47/km for the first 34km, dropping only to 6:15-6:25 for the last 8. I like to think I held it together really well, and finished with a sprint at the end which was a great way to cross the line.

Lots of slow training is definitely working. Really happy with that result!

cerat0n1a

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #26 on: April 15, 2021, 05:43:09 AM »
Woo hoo! I ran 4:10 and wound up with a 19 minute PB for the marathon on the weekend! Average pace was about 5:47/km for the first 34km, dropping only to 6:15-6:25 for the last 8. I like to think I held it together really well, and finished with a sprint at the end which was a great way to cross the line.

Lots of slow training is definitely working. Really happy with that result!

Congratulations, that is a big PB.

brandon1827

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #27 on: April 15, 2021, 06:54:30 AM »
Thanks for starting this thread. I need some people to commiserate with and another accountability outlet.

I was a full-on runner for years starting when my wife got pregnant with our son. I was 34 at the time and I've done 11 half marathons, numerous 5Ks & 10Ks, and one 10 nautical mile race since. In 2019 & early 2020 I became more focused on doing HIIT workouts and kind of let my running go by the wayside. When covid hit, I stopped working out altogether and gained a nice solid 10-15 covid pounds. I've very recently decided that I want to start running races again, but I'm essentially starting from scratch after not doing much for the past 12 months. I'm 45 now and damn is it hard to get going again after so much time off! I'm basically starting off doing beginner run/walk workouts to start rebuilding my base and to get used to being on my feet for longer periods again. My mother-in-law gifted us a Nordic Track treadmill that we've setup in the garage. I'm utilizing the free 12-month iFit program available with the machine, so it's much better following along with a trainer and having it adjust the speed, incline, etc. for me. I don't really have runnable roads where I live, so just having to pop into the garage to get a run is amazing...and now I have no excuses not to do my workouts because I have to drive somewhere, etc.

Anyway, I'm excited to be part of the running community again and I look forward to checking back here to follow everyone's success!

ToTheMoon

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #28 on: April 15, 2021, 01:11:36 PM »
It is excellent that you are getting back at it @brandon1827!

I usually run with a friend, but last week I went for a short one on my own and decided to try out the run coach via Samsung Health. The settings I used were a bit aggressive, and at one point I was pretty much going full out and SHE kept telling me in her (robo voice) "run faster" "run faster" "run faster." Apparently, I was not getting up to the speed I was supposed to and SHE finally chastised me with a "Try Harder."  Bah ha ha ha, what a bitch! ;D

marty998

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #29 on: April 15, 2021, 03:31:25 PM »
It is excellent that you are getting back at it @brandon1827!

I usually run with a friend, but last week I went for a short one on my own and decided to try out the run coach via Samsung Health. The settings I used were a bit aggressive, and at one point I was pretty much going full out and SHE kept telling me in her (robo voice) "run faster" "run faster" "run faster." Apparently, I was not getting up to the speed I was supposed to and SHE finally chastised me with a "Try Harder."  Bah ha ha ha, what a bitch! ;D

Running advice is like that sometimes.

“How do I get better?”
“Run faster”

“How do I run faster?”
“Move your legs faster”

Thoroughly unhelpful :)

brandon1827

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #30 on: April 16, 2021, 07:43:32 AM »
Lol, exactly. Sometimes the "help" you receive isn't that helpful

I'm actually on the other side of this now as I did "week 2 workout 3" yesterday. The trainer (Tommy Rivers Puzey) is doing these runs in Portugal, so the scenery is amazing...but after that 8th workout I'm getting bored with going so slow. I understand (and he explains repeatedly) that going slow is better than going too fast too soon. I agree with him, but damn, doing 30 second runs followed by 60 second walks for 25 minutes is getting old, lol. I should probably be thankful that he's not cranking up the intensity too quickly, but I grow impatient.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #31 on: April 16, 2021, 04:09:47 PM »
My running partner is my dog, which I find very encouraging. She's happy with my faster shorter runs and my husband's slower longer runs, and it's much more inspiring to have your running buddy looking back at you with a "Isn't this GREAT!?" smile than an app barking "Run faster!" at you. Oh, and since she's tied to my waist there is a little bit of speed assistance there but it does come with some additional risk of her abruptly changing direction on you. [See: the only times I have ever sprained an ankle]

brandon1827

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #32 on: April 29, 2021, 06:45:27 AM »
I heard a lot about Hal Higdon plans several years ago when I first started running. I'm glad it seems to be working for you Fru-Gal! At some point, once I'm through this Tommy Rivs 6-week plan and have worked my way back up to running 5k distance, I'll likely start looking for another plan to get me ready for 13.1 sometime later this year

jrhampt

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #33 on: April 29, 2021, 07:13:02 AM »
I haven't been to the gym since last March due to COVID...used to run about 3x a week year round, 30 minutes, 5k ish each time, so about 10 miles weekly.  I would supplement with 3-5 times a week group fitness classes, yoga etc.  Since COVID I have run as my primary form of exercise with a bit of biking and hiking mixed in, so I've upped it to 5-7 times a week, 15-20+ miles per week.  30 minute runs at a time seem to be my sweet spot for no injuries, followed by walking another 3 miles.  If my calves/knees start twinging when I run, I know it's time for new shoes.  We also moved to the shore, so there's less snow to impede my run during the winter, and I have micro spikes and yak traks for the handful of days when the roads/trails are too icy to go without.  I find that when I run year round as opposed to just when the weather is nice, I don't have those really uncomfortable runs in the spring when I'm just starting for the season, and I don't feel as caged in during the winter.

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #34 on: May 04, 2021, 02:11:32 PM »
I haven't been to the gym since last March due to COVID...used to run about 3x a week year round, 30 minutes, 5k ish each time, so about 10 miles weekly.  I would supplement with 3-5 times a week group fitness classes, yoga etc.  Since COVID I have run as my primary form of exercise with a bit of biking and hiking mixed in, so I've upped it to 5-7 times a week, 15-20+ miles per week.  30 minute runs at a time seem to be my sweet spot for no injuries, followed by walking another 3 miles.  If my calves/knees start twinging when I run, I know it's time for new shoes.  We also moved to the shore, so there's less snow to impede my run during the winter, and I have micro spikes and yak traks for the handful of days when the roads/trails are too icy to go without.  I find that when I run year round as opposed to just when the weather is nice, I don't have those really uncomfortable runs in the spring when I'm just starting for the season, and I don't feel as caged in during the winter.

Running during the winter is awesome once you get the right clothing, plus it makes me feel like a total badass when people in cars stare in wonderment about how someone could be outside in the weather.

racquetcat

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #35 on: May 04, 2021, 02:15:17 PM »
Monthly distance update!

January-76.5 miles over 14 runs
February-0.9 miles - I hurt my knee so I started a stretching and strength routine to aid in recovery.
March-15.7 miles over 12 runs.

April -29.5 miles over 11 runs. Still getting strength training in 2-3 times per week. Shooting for 50 mile May!!

jrhampt

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #36 on: May 05, 2021, 08:51:47 AM »
I haven't been to the gym since last March due to COVID...used to run about 3x a week year round, 30 minutes, 5k ish each time, so about 10 miles weekly.  I would supplement with 3-5 times a week group fitness classes, yoga etc.  Since COVID I have run as my primary form of exercise with a bit of biking and hiking mixed in, so I've upped it to 5-7 times a week, 15-20+ miles per week.  30 minute runs at a time seem to be my sweet spot for no injuries, followed by walking another 3 miles.  If my calves/knees start twinging when I run, I know it's time for new shoes.  We also moved to the shore, so there's less snow to impede my run during the winter, and I have micro spikes and yak traks for the handful of days when the roads/trails are too icy to go without.  I find that when I run year round as opposed to just when the weather is nice, I don't have those really uncomfortable runs in the spring when I'm just starting for the season, and I don't feel as caged in during the winter.

Running during the winter is awesome once you get the right clothing, plus it makes me feel like a total badass when people in cars stare in wonderment about how someone could be outside in the weather.

Same!  I also have a friend who cycle commutes to work year round and he is frequently quoting maxims such as "we are not made of paper" for when it rains, etc.  I actually look forward to runs in the 30s now more than the hotter runs in the summer.

brandon1827

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #37 on: May 05, 2021, 01:12:15 PM »
My best half marathon ever was the CMM one year when it poured rain on downtown Nashville the entire race. I tend to overheat and sweat so much that by mile 10 I'm starting to cramp despite my best efforts to keep hydrating...but that year I could've run all day long and never felt like I got terribly hot

jambongris

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #38 on: May 05, 2021, 01:52:39 PM »
I just started running in 2021. Prior to this year I had only run 5k once.

I ran one 5k in February (25m46s) and one 5k in March (22m44s) before realizing that I kind of enjoy running.

I managed to up my distance to 105k in April and am on pace for a similar amount in May. I lowered my 5k PB to 21m50s in April and am currently « training » to see how much more I can lower it. My personal goal is sub-20 but I think I’m setting myself up for disappointment.

My initial goal was just to train for a 5k PB but I find myself thinking about next steps (1/2s, marathons, etc.)

My biggest struggle right now is pushing myself too hard. I need to keep reminding myself to slow down and just put in the miles at a slower pace (lest my knees give out for a few days). I’m getting better at slowing down and enjoying the journey but I still find myself speeding up during my runs if I’m not careful.

amberfocus

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #39 on: May 08, 2021, 09:47:21 PM »
Hello fellow Mustachian runners!

Runner here since 2018. Started running to get into shape; I worked my distance up to 10K by the end of 2019, half-marathon by spring of 2019, and full marathon by summer of 2019. I'd always hated sports because I have zero natural talent, but with distance running, you can make up for genetic deficiency through patience and sheer stubbornness -- both of which I have in spades, LOL.

It's also a really good and cheap investment -- upfront cost is just a pair of shoes, and you reap significant health dividends which can keep future healthcare costs down, which is great for FIRE. Be still my Mustachian heart. :)

My training lapsed in 2020 after the pandemic cancelled all of my races (including the NYC marathon), and work stress shot through the roof. I know a lot of people exercise for stress relief, but stress and burnout make me shut down into zombie-mode and I stop doing things. I need to be in decent mental health to stay self-motivated.

I am solving the work stress situation by retiring in two weeks, so I hope to be back to form soon! Major goals for the rest of this year include:

1) Build mileage base back up to 30 to 40 miles per week by the beginning of July. I'm aiming for 3 to 4 shorter 10K runs and a long run of 10 to 15 miles. I was able to crank out 13.1 the past two weekends, so endurance is still decent, but I have to work on volume.

2) Train for either a (thrice-deferred) local marathon in the fall, or the 2021 NYC marathon if I get in. A PR is probably not realistic given my current fitness level, but I'll settle for a decent training cycle and a well-executed finish.

3) Restart strength training. I'd lift at the gym 2 to 4 times per week pre-Covid, but need to establish a new post-pandemic and post-FIRE routine. A plank a day keeps the injuries away.

4) If I find out that fall marathons still aren't happening, I might put in a training block to work on a sub-2 half. It's really hard to fit these in around two marathon training cycles per year. I should have been doing this last year, but now I wouldn't have work stress as an excuse anymore.

I'm currently really enjoying the beautiful spring weather. Slowly reclaiming my lost Local Legend titles in Strava is also helping with motivation, ha. I'm gonna be a lot less happy when it starts getting hotter, though. I'm not a morning person and I cannot do crack-of-dawn runs. I used to run midnight laps around my workplace campus parking lot to escape the summer heat, but I'm not gonna be able to do that anymore. Hopefully I can figure out a solution to this dilemma.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #40 on: May 09, 2021, 01:53:57 PM »
I did four miles today after failing to make time for several weeks (I've been doing hiking and other things, just not running). I didn't time myself but I was able to run the whole way without walking. Mood is much improved.

jambongris

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #41 on: May 09, 2021, 02:57:41 PM »
I did four miles today after failing to make time for several weeks (I've been doing hiking and other things, just not running). I didn't time myself but I was able to run the whole way without walking. Mood is much improved.
I definitely feel better after a run. Mentally anyway. It’s very therapeutic.

I’ve also realized that I much prefer running without headphones. It’s so freeing.

Set a new distance PR this morning but my left knee is really feeling it.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #42 on: May 09, 2021, 04:18:22 PM »
This morning's run was brought to you by a reminder to do your stretches and any rehab exercises your physio has mandated.

@jambongris I used to run with music but had to stop once I needed to be completely alert to all the things that my dog would take offence to and now I really prefer it.

jambongris

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #43 on: May 09, 2021, 05:59:26 PM »
This morning's run was brought to you by a reminder to do your stretches and any rehab exercises your physio has mandated.

@jambongris I used to run with music but had to stop once I needed to be completely alert to all the things that my dog would take offence to and now I really prefer it.
Any good stretch suggestions? I have a series of stretches that I do pre-run and another for off days. I also do yoga most off days.

I’m still very new to running so any suggestions are welcome.

brandon1827

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #44 on: May 10, 2021, 07:19:19 AM »
Just my two cents, so take that for what it's worth, lol. I'm in the "never stretch before running" camp. I've read plenty of literature on the benefits and pitfalls of a pre-run stretch...but ultimately I think it's different for each individual. Personally, when I used to stretch before runs I noticed I was more injured pretty much all the time. I switched to active warm-ups in lieu of stretching and it was huge for my health. I will do high knees, karaoke, shuffles, jog forward & backward, then spend 10 +/- minutes doing a lower speed light jogging to get myself ready to go. After that, I feel that my entire body is ready to run and anecdotally I've had much fewer aches and pains while running. Again...to each their own...but I would suggest tinkering until you find a mix of stretching and/or active warm-up that works for you.

jambongris

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #45 on: May 10, 2021, 11:18:03 AM »
Half of my pre run routine would probably be considered « active warm ups ». I just figured that was still « stretching ». I had no idea that some people advocated against stretching before runs. Looks like I have some research to do.

I did some reading this morning and I think my issue at the moment is my IT bands. Using the foam roller really helped after my run yesterday. Ultimately I think I just need to dial it back and then increase my speed and distance at a slower rate.

brandon1827

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #46 on: May 10, 2021, 01:23:03 PM »
I think you're on the right track if you're considering tapering a bit. IT bands can be tricky and they take a while to heal properly or can lead to other issues. I had real bad IT band problems when I trained for one of my half marathons on the same stretch of road for months. I wasn't thinking of it at the time, but the shoulders are somewhat inclined away from the roadway to help with runoff in big rains and such. I had a 10-mile out and back where 5 miles were one way and I'd cross the road and come back the other way. Over time, I was running with an altered stride due to the road shoulder angles and it wreaked havoc on my right IT band due to my uneven stride. I treated it with KT tape until after my race, but it ended up contributing to a torn meniscus and a cortisone injection...so absolutely listen when your body is trying to tell you something, lol.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #47 on: May 10, 2021, 02:20:55 PM »
I sprained the same ankle 3x in 18 months thanks to my canine running partner and I need to do mobility exercises for my ankle and my glute medius specifically so my whole leg doesn't eventually lock up. Calf stretches and raises are another big one to keep everything moving.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #48 on: May 10, 2021, 02:39:59 PM »
I don't know if I can quite consider myself a runner yet, but I just started a couple weeks ago and I'm loving it so far! Over the past 8 months or so I've been walking at least 4-5 kilometers daily, and I decided that I wanted to get running since I've been feeling out of shape without my regular sports activities.

I'm starting off slow, around 3km, 20-25 minute runs every other day. I've run about 16km so far this month. Not worried about speed for now, just forming the habit and gradually building up distance. Definitely trying to do it right and not injure myself. Not sure how fast I'll progress but I'd love to be able to run 10km by the end of the summer. I'm using the Nike run club app and I'm really enjoying the guided runs and the data it tracks.

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Re: Run for your lives! The 2021 runners thread
« Reply #49 on: May 11, 2021, 07:32:28 PM »
Five miles today. It was nice and sunny out. Hoping to make this a regular habit again.