Cool Down Chat - February 27, 2014

I made it to the gym tonight and decided to mix it up a little. I was able to add a little weight training – nothing to serious. I spent 15 minutes working my upper body as I ran through about five different nautilus type machines. Then I did some speed work on the elliptical machine completing 3 miles in 20 minutes and then another ¾ mile slow cool down. 

A friend of mine asked me if I had ever done any hypertrophy training and I was a little embarrassed to say that I had no idea what the heck he was talking about. But after a little research, this is what I found out – it’s complicated. The science behind the method is a little over my head, but the jest of it, I gather that is a way to build muscles quickly. The example my friend gave me is as follows, high number of sets, medium number of reps. He does 8 sets of 8. Sometimes he says he will do 5 sets of 5.

Arctic Strides would like to know if there is a method to your madness. What techniques do you use at the gym?

Cool Down Chat - February 26, 2014

I didn’t make it to the gym tonight, but I did manage to put on my T25 Beta Speed 1.0 DVD and complete 25 minutes of total body cardio. Most of the time was spent bouncing around on my tippy toes in a highly effective way that made my calves feel like they were on fire and pads of my feet feel worn. My plan for tomorrow is to get up early and hit the elliptical machine at the gym. I need to put in at least another five miles. 

Arctic Strides would like to know how you mix it up and keep your workouts from getting dull.

Cool Down Chat - February 24, 2014

The thought of the monotony of any cardio machine is enough to make me dread any trip to the gym. As of late, I have been extremely neglectful of my health and fitness and avoiding my training like the plague. However Monday I rededicated myself to my marathon training and selected the low impact cardio exercise of running on the elliptical machine. For years I have frowned at the thought of paddling along in an effortless and aimless robotic motion and always criticized friends for choosing this option. But tonight I have to repent because I made a new friend and his name is elliptical. I competed more than five miles and burned almost 600 calories. I feel good, tired, and look forward to a return visit to the gym. 

Arctic Strides would like to know what machines or gym equipment you avoid.

Long Run - February 14, 2014

The Cheechako Runner   

                              

I met Emily online through an effort made by the social media team at Big Wild Life Runs (BWLR).  I was invited to take part in a series of featured runner profiles on their blog for the upcoming 49k race. Absolutely flattered, I jumped at the chance to take part in something so near and dear to my heart.  Emily emailed me a list of questions that I was supposed to answer and thus began our correspondence and my interest in learning more about her own running experience.

Normally I would have invited Emily to go for a run and interviewed her on the trails. But seeing that she is a woman, and I am a stranger who she just met through the internet; I thought it best to meet in a well-lit public place. I asked her to meet me at one of my favorite places for some coffee talk. As we chatted, I got to know her a little and learned a lot about her excitement for life, running, and Alaska.

Emily is a Cheechako, here for work and the Alaskan experience. She and her husband migrated here all the way from South Carolina. She noted more than once how much she loves living in the Last Frontier. She especially loves how friendly everyone is and how much Alaskans want to share the state with anyone that is willing to let them. Emily is what I would call a light runner, or maybe a better way to say it is social runner. Some of her favorite things about running are the social aspects.

As a new resident she quickly made friends by attending the Skinny Raven Pub Runs and eventually joining the Anchorage Running Club. I asked her how she got involved with BWLR. She said while working an interim job at a “high end” clothing store, the race director (a personal client) invited her to announce the races. As luck would have it, she met Jeff Galloway the day before and let him talk her into running the Snow City 5k without any training. I gather she’s up for just about anything, as long as it is fun (and challenging). Anyway – that led her to other opportunities such as volunteering to work with the BWLR social media committee.

I listen to Emily’s story of how she became a runner, how she ended up in Alaska, and why she continues to love the sport so much. She told me that running motivates her to be a better version of herself. She loves the fitness aspect of the sport and the friendships it creates. She also shared with me that running instills a feeling of accomplishment or achievement that she thrives on.

She went on to share a funny story about her first winter run and how it was a little overwhelming. Her husband and a couple of friends from out of state had never really done any kind of winter running. As you might imagine they all overdressed, by probably about five layers. She showed me a picture, and I had to laugh. To be honest though, I think that is something we can all relate too. I know it can be a struggle to figure out just the right number of layers to wear.

One of the most interesting things I learned about Emily is that she has never run a marathon – not even a half. I was kind of surprised to learn this, but after hearing her advice to anyone that is thinking of becoming a runner, I was able to move past it. Emily says, “It is never too late to start running. It doesn’t matter what level you’re at, go at your own pace. It’s not about big miles; it’s about getting out there. Progress is progress.”

I really enjoyed hearing her perspective on running. It made me feel like I can give more back to the sport that has given me so much. I should note that she has made a commitment to finish her first half at the Mayor’sMarathon in June.

I asked Emily to tell me what runners should expect and look forward to at this year’s BWLR event. She says, “Big Wild Life Runs is going to be amazing this year!” They are adding the 49K Ultra (which yours truly is going to run). They are also anticipating an even bigger turnout for the Anchorage Mile. She is expecting it to be another fun filled weekend for runners of all types. On the roster for guest speakers will be American Olympian Jeff Galloway and Marathon Champion Dick Beardsley. She also made a special note mentioning all the amazing volunteers that make the race possible.

If you happen to see Emily on the trails make sure to say hi and don’t be afraid to offer a high five.

If you are interested in learning more about the BWLR or how you can be a featured runner log on to BigWildLifeRuns.Com, follow them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

Rest Day - February 13, 2014

It’s another rest day – but I have to ask myself what the heck am I resting from? I have been so lazy lately. Ever since I injured my leg, I have been fighting to find motivation to run. It would seem that I enjoy talking about running more than I am actually getting out there and doing any running.

My Doctor suggested that I avoid high impact training and instructed me to stay off the trails/treadmills for at least six weeks. He told me to focus on low impact machines like the elliptical and to try to do some light strength straining too. If my leg is still hurting he wants me to come in for x-rays – the theory being that I may have a stress fracture. This presents a problem as I am already signed up to run the Mayor’s Marathon in June (time is running out to get myself in marathon shape). I am worried that if I don’t get it in gear, I am going to repeat the same struggles I experienced at the Honolulu Marathon.

Arctic Strides would like to know what kind of strength training I should do build muscle in my lower legs? 

Rest Day - February 9, 2014

The Run You Prepare For Is the One You Run Best

There are a few things in life I know to be true; things I can always count on. First, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is Christ’s true church, restored. Secondly, the atonement of Jesus Christ is far reaching. Thirdly; I believe that every blessing we receive is a result of our obedience to the principles upon which the blessing is predicated. To put is in simpler terms, when we obey God’s command, we prosper in the land. Lastly, I believe, God will give the faithful line upon line, precept upon precept, all according to our understanding and readiness.  I believe with faith in Jesus Christ all things are possible. I know I can move mountains, even if it requires a shovel to do so.

For three years and counting, I have dedicated myself to the sport of endurance running. I have finished three marathons, six half marathons, and one Tough Mudder composition. This last year however, I have struggled to finish any of my races. I come to the starting lines unprepared for the courses that lay ahead. Each finish has been a drawn out battle for which I have only myself to blame.  Most recently I ran the Honolulu Marathon in Hawaii. I came ready to run, but not ready to endure. I failed to train adequately and so like you would expect, the race was more than a challenge. It was downright unbearable. In the past I worked hard, trained hard, ate healthy, and focused on the goal at hand. But like the Apostle, Peter who walked on water with Christ, I began to sink as I took my eyes off of the end goal.

Several of my runs have led me down paths that I never thought I would be able to travel even distances that I thought were impossible. But through hard work, dedication and focus I have accomplished levels of endurance that are reserved for those that have truly prepared themselves. 

Once while participating in a half marathon I cramped up half way through the race. I was sure that there was absolutely no way I would cross the finish line. Remembering my training and the rules I established for myself long before I set out to accomplish such a goal. One of my rules to running is pray always. Just as I concluded my plea an angel appeared. I don’t remember her name, but she saw I was in distress and encouraged me to keep going. She kept me company and distracted me from my pains all the way to the finish line.

Running is a lot like the gospel. When we study things out, and prepare for the challenges ahead, we are far more likely to accomplish what we set out to than if we had not. My short comings were not punishment for disobedience, but rather the consequence of being ill prepared. Training for a marathon requires daily discipline and self-mastery. Each time I go for a run, I learn something about myself and the course I am on. Likewise each time I study the scriptures I learn something new about God’s plan. I have learned when I take the time to do what is right, giving my very best, having faith in Jesus Christ, all things are possible. I can move mountains, and even run marathons. This I believe.

Long Run - February 7, 2014

Justification

A guilty pleasure of mine is reading and watching shoe reviews online. I love seeing why each incarnation is better than the last and what makes that shoe the got-to-have shoe of the moment. I could compare running shoes to hotrod cars, but I don’t know enough about cars to make that comparison other than they excite me.

Just like shiny cars gets me all revved up, so do a brightly colored pair of Mizunos, Brooks, or Sauconys. Heck, I even get excited when I see a new pair of Ascis or Nikes. And like any kid in a candy store, I want them all. Alas, I can’t afford that when the average price of a quality running shoe is going to be upwards of $100.00. I think the best deal I ever found was for a pair of Brooks Ravenna; they were $95 at aSports Authority.

Typically the shoes I want are around $125-$140, but on a single income every expense has to be planed for, or cleverly justified. The last pair of shoes I bought have been hurting my feet. They cause blisters, numbness, and even a black toenail. I know it’s the shoes fault, because I read somewhere that your shoes can sometimes shrink if they get wet. And the last marathon I ran, my shoes were never dry. For six long hours, they were soaked with sweat and water; yuck.I also read that running causes your feet to get bigger and wider over time. They can grow up to a full size larger.

Between shrinking shoes and growing feet, I am left with no choice but to look for and purchase a new pair of running shoes. Coincidentally Brooks just released their new shoe line called Transcend and our local running store just happens to have them in stock. Also my birthday is this month, so odds are I might be able to justify (weasel) my way in to pair. I’ll let you know how it goes. 

Arctic Strides would like to know what is your favorite running shoe?