So its the end of another year.
2008 has been and is almost gone; 2009 is just around the corner.
So have you made your new year's resolutions?
Normally I don't buy into the whole new year's resolutions thing given the propensity for people to make rash new year's resolutions and then fail to see them through.
However this time I've decided to set some goals. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.
After a not so great 2008 I'm planning on having a really fine 2009!
Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Are you gonna go my way (Lenny Kravitz)
This morning I met up with two fruits and softshoeshuffle for a run taking in Black Mountain, gunbarrel and Dairy Farmers hill, among others. I was on time but I had forgotten my drink bottles and carrier. Fortunately both guys had brought extra drinks. This was my first 'real', hilly off-road run since the 'back' incident 3 weeks ago so I wasn't sure how I'd fare. However, last week I managed a total of 45km for the week, 16km of this was on flat cycle paths, and then I graduated to off-road trails. However not all is peachy just yet - I have developed a sore left achilles and left groin muscle, both of which apparently relate back to my 'back' incident.
Our run started with a run up Black Mountain (which I walked) and then backtracking down the path we had just come up. I was running downhill very carefully because downhill running puts more strain on my back at the moment so the guys ran away from me. No problem, I knew where they were going....or so I thought. I got to the bottom and no-one was there. Funny I could've sworn I didn't pass them on the way down, so where were they? Seems like I was too engrossed in listening to my music and watching my footing to take any notice of where they were going and I missed a turn-off. Luckily two fruits had come back for me, envisaging I had either done a CJ or my back had given way. Then we made our way back to where he had left softshoeshuffle, only to find he wasn't there. Oh dear, this run was going really well!
We eventually regrouped and started off again, along familiar territory (for me) in Black Mt nature park and then it was time to head across to Stromlo. Without thinking I was heading for the shortest way across, which in this case was a road (part of Glenloch Interchange). Not a good idea! Instead we followed the cycle path underpass - a much safer route.
The rest of the run had its highs and lows for me but this had more to do with my lack of running for the past 3 weeks rather than any pain or niggles. The weather also was starting to change - we started in warm sunny weather but a large black cloud was looming and the wind was picking up some strength.
Finally Black Mt peninsula came into sight - oh what a reassuring sight to see my car! I ran close to 24km this morning - some of it easy, some of it hard but as always, with great company. I know I wouldn't do half of what we did if it wasn't for the moral support and the 'just being there' that I get from running with these guys. So a big thanks and hugs to two fruits and softshoeshuffle.
Our run started with a run up Black Mountain (which I walked) and then backtracking down the path we had just come up. I was running downhill very carefully because downhill running puts more strain on my back at the moment so the guys ran away from me. No problem, I knew where they were going....or so I thought. I got to the bottom and no-one was there. Funny I could've sworn I didn't pass them on the way down, so where were they? Seems like I was too engrossed in listening to my music and watching my footing to take any notice of where they were going and I missed a turn-off. Luckily two fruits had come back for me, envisaging I had either done a CJ or my back had given way. Then we made our way back to where he had left softshoeshuffle, only to find he wasn't there. Oh dear, this run was going really well!
We eventually regrouped and started off again, along familiar territory (for me) in Black Mt nature park and then it was time to head across to Stromlo. Without thinking I was heading for the shortest way across, which in this case was a road (part of Glenloch Interchange). Not a good idea! Instead we followed the cycle path underpass - a much safer route.
The rest of the run had its highs and lows for me but this had more to do with my lack of running for the past 3 weeks rather than any pain or niggles. The weather also was starting to change - we started in warm sunny weather but a large black cloud was looming and the wind was picking up some strength.
Finally Black Mt peninsula came into sight - oh what a reassuring sight to see my car! I ran close to 24km this morning - some of it easy, some of it hard but as always, with great company. I know I wouldn't do half of what we did if it wasn't for the moral support and the 'just being there' that I get from running with these guys. So a big thanks and hugs to two fruits and softshoeshuffle.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
And a good time was had by all......
Last night it was the final dinner for the year for the Speedygeese group. The dinner was at Phnom Penh restaurant in Belconnen. Despite the fact that I don't think I have turned up to even one session this year at Parliament House, I would like to think I am part of the speedygeese group in spirit so attended the dinner. It was a great night - great company, lots of laughs (could be the drugs!), and great food. So thanks Geoff for organising the dinner - I'm sure everyone had an enjoyable night. I know I did.
Now if only I could run off all this extra food I am consuming at this time of the year!!!!!
Update on injury - I'm actually not feeling too bad this morning. The back was taped yesterday so that helps. Will go for a walk after work - I have been given permission by my physio.
Now if only I could run off all this extra food I am consuming at this time of the year!!!!!
Update on injury - I'm actually not feeling too bad this morning. The back was taped yesterday so that helps. Will go for a walk after work - I have been given permission by my physio.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Never assume anything!
Last Tuesday I injured myself and it wasn't through running - so no I didn't do a CJ (I saw your comment Ewen!).
It had to with a frozen computer, a desk and power cords underneath the desk. That is, my work computer froze during log-on, the on/off switch wouldn't work, hitting it definitely didn't work so this meant I had to crawl under my desk to pull the power plugs out of the power board (or whatever it's called), as we don't have power switches up on the desk. I gave the cord a yank, hit my head on the underneath part of my desk and thought that was it.....until I went to stand up..........and couldn't. My lower back went into painful spasms and I had to get back on the floor until it settled down.
Since then I have been to the doctor, the physio (three times), and for acupuncture (twice). I'm on muscle relaxant medication plus anti-inflammatories. The back went into spasms again Sunday night but since the acupuncture it has settled down so now I'm feeling almost human and not likely to snap anyone's head off or burst into tears. I have another lot of acupuncture Thursday afternoon - I have to admit I've been impressed with the results so far.
Then we fly to the Gold Coast Friday afternoon for son #3's graduation from Griffith University which is on Saturday afternoon. Then we fly home Sunday.
I miss my running.
It had to with a frozen computer, a desk and power cords underneath the desk. That is, my work computer froze during log-on, the on/off switch wouldn't work, hitting it definitely didn't work so this meant I had to crawl under my desk to pull the power plugs out of the power board (or whatever it's called), as we don't have power switches up on the desk. I gave the cord a yank, hit my head on the underneath part of my desk and thought that was it.....until I went to stand up..........and couldn't. My lower back went into painful spasms and I had to get back on the floor until it settled down.
Since then I have been to the doctor, the physio (three times), and for acupuncture (twice). I'm on muscle relaxant medication plus anti-inflammatories. The back went into spasms again Sunday night but since the acupuncture it has settled down so now I'm feeling almost human and not likely to snap anyone's head off or burst into tears. I have another lot of acupuncture Thursday afternoon - I have to admit I've been impressed with the results so far.
Then we fly to the Gold Coast Friday afternoon for son #3's graduation from Griffith University which is on Saturday afternoon. Then we fly home Sunday.
I miss my running.
Monday, December 08, 2008
A sad day
This afternoon I heard the saddest news: Dual Commonwealth Games marathon gold medallist Kerryn McCann has died from cancer at the age of 41.
Kerryn McCann was aged 38 when she provided one of the dramatic highlights of Melbourne's 2006 Commonwealth Games.
Exchanging the lead several times with Kenyan Hellen Cherono Koskei as they approached the MCG, Kerryn hit the front and entered the stadium to a massive roar from the crowd.
As the pair battled the final stretch around the stadium, Kerryn lost the lead before summoning an inspiring home straight burst to eclipse Koskei and snatch victory by two seconds.
She described it as 'probably the greatest victory I've ever had, or the greatest race I've ever run'.
An inspirational woman, athlete and mother.
Kerryn McCann was aged 38 when she provided one of the dramatic highlights of Melbourne's 2006 Commonwealth Games.
Exchanging the lead several times with Kenyan Hellen Cherono Koskei as they approached the MCG, Kerryn hit the front and entered the stadium to a massive roar from the crowd.
As the pair battled the final stretch around the stadium, Kerryn lost the lead before summoning an inspiring home straight burst to eclipse Koskei and snatch victory by two seconds.
She described it as 'probably the greatest victory I've ever had, or the greatest race I've ever run'.
An inspirational woman, athlete and mother.
Its a long way to the top......
but it had nothing to do with rock'n'roll! Saturday's run was the hardest, toughest run since.....since... since the last time I walked/ran Mt Tennent.
I really only saw Mick and Nick before we started and then only in passing, usually when I was walking up as they were running down Mt Tennent, and they were looking relatively fresh in comparison. Steve, softshoeshuffle, JK and I ran together in parts or met up at the summit once or twice.
The first ascent from the Visitors Centre is rocky, steep and not for the faint-hearted (Strewth, you'd hate it!). I rolled my ankle not far from the start but fortunately it wasn't serious and for a while I didn't say anything because I didn't want to jinx myself. The only times I really noticed anything was when I stopped running or during the final descent back down to the Visitors centre, when the ankle was aching a bit. (Today - Monday - it's fine).
We passed a group of bushwalkers on the way up to the top for the first time, then some of the same group on the descent to Bushfold Flats, and then again on the final descent. Otherwise it was just us crazy runners. As mentioned I walked a good part of the uphills and even that was really hard work. But I'm stubborn and I was determined to get to the top for the second time even if it took all day. That, and the fact I had run out of water and there was a water tank at the top!
However, it felt so good to finally finish back at the cars - five hours (4hr 30min running time), 30.5km and 2,323 calories later! Not only because it had been a tough gruelling run but because I had completed it - despite a lot of walking. The run may not have been fast, it was definitely not pretty but I did it.....and I have DOMS to prove it!!!!!!
I really only saw Mick and Nick before we started and then only in passing, usually when I was walking up as they were running down Mt Tennent, and they were looking relatively fresh in comparison. Steve, softshoeshuffle, JK and I ran together in parts or met up at the summit once or twice.
The first ascent from the Visitors Centre is rocky, steep and not for the faint-hearted (Strewth, you'd hate it!). I rolled my ankle not far from the start but fortunately it wasn't serious and for a while I didn't say anything because I didn't want to jinx myself. The only times I really noticed anything was when I stopped running or during the final descent back down to the Visitors centre, when the ankle was aching a bit. (Today - Monday - it's fine).
We passed a group of bushwalkers on the way up to the top for the first time, then some of the same group on the descent to Bushfold Flats, and then again on the final descent. Otherwise it was just us crazy runners. As mentioned I walked a good part of the uphills and even that was really hard work. But I'm stubborn and I was determined to get to the top for the second time even if it took all day. That, and the fact I had run out of water and there was a water tank at the top!
However, it felt so good to finally finish back at the cars - five hours (4hr 30min running time), 30.5km and 2,323 calories later! Not only because it had been a tough gruelling run but because I had completed it - despite a lot of walking. The run may not have been fast, it was definitely not pretty but I did it.....and I have DOMS to prove it!!!!!!
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Rest day
No running, no gymming; instead a well earned rest day to recuperate and recover.
Today I came aross this quote:
It comes from a book called Another Roadside Attraction by Tom Robbins. The character named Amanda is listening to an FBI agent go on about courage, trying to get her to give up her husband's location. She responds with:
"Courage? You risked your life, but what else have you ever risked? Have you ever risked disapproval? Have you ever risked a belief? There's nothing particularly courageous in risking one's life. So you lose it. You go to your hero's heaven and everything is milk and honey til the end of time, right? You get your reward and suffer no earthly consequences. That's not courage. Real courage is risking something you have to keep on living with. Real courage is risking something that might force you to rethink your thoughts, and suffer change, and stretch consciousness. Real courage is risking one's cliches."
Hope everyone had a good day.
Tomorrow: 16km off-road run in my new, you-beaut off-road shoes, before breakfast.
Gym at lunchtime.
End of year assessment in client screening and assessment in the evening - and then classes are finished for the year. Yay!!!!
Today I came aross this quote:
It comes from a book called Another Roadside Attraction by Tom Robbins. The character named Amanda is listening to an FBI agent go on about courage, trying to get her to give up her husband's location. She responds with:
"Courage? You risked your life, but what else have you ever risked? Have you ever risked disapproval? Have you ever risked a belief? There's nothing particularly courageous in risking one's life. So you lose it. You go to your hero's heaven and everything is milk and honey til the end of time, right? You get your reward and suffer no earthly consequences. That's not courage. Real courage is risking something you have to keep on living with. Real courage is risking something that might force you to rethink your thoughts, and suffer change, and stretch consciousness. Real courage is risking one's cliches."
Hope everyone had a good day.
Tomorrow: 16km off-road run in my new, you-beaut off-road shoes, before breakfast.
Gym at lunchtime.
End of year assessment in client screening and assessment in the evening - and then classes are finished for the year. Yay!!!!
Monday, December 01, 2008
From Innabaayna to Tuggeranong
Groundhog day.
Alarm went off at 7am - turned it off, dozed off.
Woke up - blinked, blinked again, rubbed eyes - 8am.
From bed to Innabaayna (site of last Vets run for the year, out on Majura Rd) - in 45-50min including coffee on the run.
I was in Group 33 as I'm still paying the price for a really good run back in February 2006 and as happened last month, all the back runners passed me before the turnaround, or just after. It was beginning to look like I would come in last because I'm sure everyone passed me and I hadn't passed anyone. The legs felt heavy to start with and any hill brought me to a shuffle but I was gradually getting into my stride - it just takes time. I kept Steve in sight but really all I was trying to do was run at a comfortable pace.
I finished 80th (of 94 participants) in about 34.28min, an average of around 5min/km pace. Not too shabby after Saturday's run.
Then yesterday evening I went with some work colleagues to see Joe Camilieri (sp?) and the Black Sorrows who were playing at the Tuggeranong Festival, down by the lake. It was a great night followed by fireworks. However the coffee I had at 8.45pm (late by my standards) meant I had a very sub-standard night's sleep.
This morning I was at the gym doing a weights session followed by 30min cardio intervals on the bike. My legs are still feeling a little sluggish but not too bad.
Alarm went off at 7am - turned it off, dozed off.
Woke up - blinked, blinked again, rubbed eyes - 8am.
From bed to Innabaayna (site of last Vets run for the year, out on Majura Rd) - in 45-50min including coffee on the run.
I was in Group 33 as I'm still paying the price for a really good run back in February 2006 and as happened last month, all the back runners passed me before the turnaround, or just after. It was beginning to look like I would come in last because I'm sure everyone passed me and I hadn't passed anyone. The legs felt heavy to start with and any hill brought me to a shuffle but I was gradually getting into my stride - it just takes time. I kept Steve in sight but really all I was trying to do was run at a comfortable pace.
I finished 80th (of 94 participants) in about 34.28min, an average of around 5min/km pace. Not too shabby after Saturday's run.
Then yesterday evening I went with some work colleagues to see Joe Camilieri (sp?) and the Black Sorrows who were playing at the Tuggeranong Festival, down by the lake. It was a great night followed by fireworks. However the coffee I had at 8.45pm (late by my standards) meant I had a very sub-standard night's sleep.
This morning I was at the gym doing a weights session followed by 30min cardio intervals on the bike. My legs are still feeling a little sluggish but not too bad.
The 4WD in running shoes
On Saturday Steve, softshoeshuffle, JK and I met up at the Cotter for our weekly long run. We had arranged to meet at 7.15pm at the t-junction of Cotter Rd and Urriara Rd to make a decision about where to run based on the weather, just in case it was like last Saturday all over again. The plan was to get up early (about 5.30-ish), have breakfast and then head off to meet them at the designated time. Instead it panned out like this - alarm goes off at 5.30am, turn it off, lie there thinking about getting up, doze off, wake again at…what's that…surely not….6.40am, launch myself out of bed, mad dash to cupboard to find necessary running gear, sprint to the kitchen to make the absolutely essential coffee, whip up a blend of banana, milk and protein powder (breakfast), frantically grab miscellaneous items needed for running such as Garmin, ipod, cap, sunnies, shoes etc, etc, and I was out the door. Somehow I managed to make it to the meeting point on time (ok, maybe I was a couple of minutes late).
I hate runs that start with an uphill - this was one of them. And it kept going up courtesy of Mt McDonald - my calves were hating it with a passion. Lovely view at the top once the calf cramps eased off. I was also wearing my new you beaut 4WD in running shoes - the Salomon XT Wings.
"Looking for more speed and power? Try Salomon’s new top of the line all terrain running shoe, the XT WINGS. With solid foot support and excellent grip, this lightweight and versatile shoe allows easy running on a wide variety of terrain, from flat sandy fire trails to steep rocky singletrack. The new Agile Chassis System (ACS) provides a perfect balance of cushioning, stability and responsiveness. Quick-drying breathable mesh provides ventilation for the entire foot, while the soles of your feet remain fresh and odour-free thanks to a special anti-microbial treatment. Salomon’s innovative Quicklace™ system ensures the shoes deliver a snug fit with just one pull."
These shoes are amazing - rocky rough trails - no problem. Downhills - no problem. I am morphing into the Downhill Demon - a big turnaround from the previous Downhill Dunce that I was. Don't get me wrong, I still have a lot more work to do on my downhill running but these shoes have given me the confidence, so look out knees! Now, if only Salomon could develop a shoe that helps make uphill running easier!! (or getting out of bed in the morning a lot easier!)
So in summary there were hills, downhills, lots of talking and laughing (especially about Zits - a comic strip in the Canberra Times), lots of swearing under breath (from me as I was struggling up hills), music (when the going gets tough, the music goes on), muscles going lactic, a snake, standing in cool water, sunshine then cool breezes, and a coffee man who didn't hang around to take our orders (bah humbug).
I think we ran about 31km in around 3hr 10min (running time). Next week: Mt Tennent. Enough said…….
I hate runs that start with an uphill - this was one of them. And it kept going up courtesy of Mt McDonald - my calves were hating it with a passion. Lovely view at the top once the calf cramps eased off. I was also wearing my new you beaut 4WD in running shoes - the Salomon XT Wings.
"Looking for more speed and power? Try Salomon’s new top of the line all terrain running shoe, the XT WINGS. With solid foot support and excellent grip, this lightweight and versatile shoe allows easy running on a wide variety of terrain, from flat sandy fire trails to steep rocky singletrack. The new Agile Chassis System (ACS) provides a perfect balance of cushioning, stability and responsiveness. Quick-drying breathable mesh provides ventilation for the entire foot, while the soles of your feet remain fresh and odour-free thanks to a special anti-microbial treatment. Salomon’s innovative Quicklace™ system ensures the shoes deliver a snug fit with just one pull."
These shoes are amazing - rocky rough trails - no problem. Downhills - no problem. I am morphing into the Downhill Demon - a big turnaround from the previous Downhill Dunce that I was. Don't get me wrong, I still have a lot more work to do on my downhill running but these shoes have given me the confidence, so look out knees! Now, if only Salomon could develop a shoe that helps make uphill running easier!! (or getting out of bed in the morning a lot easier!)
So in summary there were hills, downhills, lots of talking and laughing (especially about Zits - a comic strip in the Canberra Times), lots of swearing under breath (from me as I was struggling up hills), music (when the going gets tough, the music goes on), muscles going lactic, a snake, standing in cool water, sunshine then cool breezes, and a coffee man who didn't hang around to take our orders (bah humbug).
I think we ran about 31km in around 3hr 10min (running time). Next week: Mt Tennent. Enough said…….
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Winter in November
The plan was to run the Cotter. With great trepidation I drove out to the Cotter, the weather matching my mood - it was grey, cold and miserable. However by the time the guys (Two Fruits and softshoeshuffle) showed up and we unanimously agreed to run around Lake Burley Griffin instead, I was feeling much more confident of making the distance.
Not long after we arrived at Black Mountain peninsular several more cars showed up containing some very familiar faces: Roger, Maria, Peter, Helen, and Charlie. Time for a quick chat and then we (me, two fruits and softshoeshuffle) were off around West basin. The weather wasn't too bad - not exactly shorts and singlet weather (i was wearing several layers) but there were patches of blue sky and sunshine.
However can't say the same for the last 8km we ran once the others left for coffee (sob!). It was bitterly cold, windy and I'm positive there was a touch of sleet. It was miserable but I wanted to get in 25km for the day so there was nothing for it but to tough it out. Also by this stage my legs were feeling it - they were very tired. However it was with great satisfaction when we completed the 25km. I was going to treat myself to an Italian hot chocolate at Belconnen markets (its not dissimilar to a cup of melted chocolate rather than the insipid hot cocoa-type chocolate you usually get) but they don't sell it anymore (double sob!).
Today I feel fine - no soreness or tightness in the legs. I attribute that to the wonderful epsom salts bath I had last night - it was bliss.
The weather is still the same - wet, cool and miserable but its doing the garden a lot of good. Our strawberries are going crazy and they are so delicious - they may be small but so sweet. Just great with dark chocolate - for the antioxidants of course!!!!
Tomorrow the plan is to go to the gym before breakfast/work for a weight session (back and biceps) plus a 30min hard cardio session on the exercise bike.
Tomorrow night I will be assessed on instruction in resistance exercises for the abs/back and arms, plus on one piece of cardio equipment(bike, crosstrainer, stepper or dreadmill). I've been studying today and using son #2 as a guinea pig!
Not long after we arrived at Black Mountain peninsular several more cars showed up containing some very familiar faces: Roger, Maria, Peter, Helen, and Charlie. Time for a quick chat and then we (me, two fruits and softshoeshuffle) were off around West basin. The weather wasn't too bad - not exactly shorts and singlet weather (i was wearing several layers) but there were patches of blue sky and sunshine.
However can't say the same for the last 8km we ran once the others left for coffee (sob!). It was bitterly cold, windy and I'm positive there was a touch of sleet. It was miserable but I wanted to get in 25km for the day so there was nothing for it but to tough it out. Also by this stage my legs were feeling it - they were very tired. However it was with great satisfaction when we completed the 25km. I was going to treat myself to an Italian hot chocolate at Belconnen markets (its not dissimilar to a cup of melted chocolate rather than the insipid hot cocoa-type chocolate you usually get) but they don't sell it anymore (double sob!).
Today I feel fine - no soreness or tightness in the legs. I attribute that to the wonderful epsom salts bath I had last night - it was bliss.
The weather is still the same - wet, cool and miserable but its doing the garden a lot of good. Our strawberries are going crazy and they are so delicious - they may be small but so sweet. Just great with dark chocolate - for the antioxidants of course!!!!
Tomorrow the plan is to go to the gym before breakfast/work for a weight session (back and biceps) plus a 30min hard cardio session on the exercise bike.
Tomorrow night I will be assessed on instruction in resistance exercises for the abs/back and arms, plus on one piece of cardio equipment(bike, crosstrainer, stepper or dreadmill). I've been studying today and using son #2 as a guinea pig!
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Stop the treadmill, I want to get off!
I have been busy busy busy. Trying to fit in going to the gym for weights sessions and a cardio session, plus slowly building up my running, as well as turning up to work and trying to get through my inbox. Oh and family…yes….remembering to at least sight them once a day for more than a passing glance! It has been very hectic this week. I can't believe one long weekend (last weekend), having half of today and all of tomorrow off, and going to Melbourne would generate this much activity….but it has. I'll be so glad to get on that plane tomorrow (it is Qantas so keep fingers crossed) and just sit there for an hour or so and tune out.
The original plan for going to Melbourne, many months ago now, was to run the marathon. Then this was revised to the half marathon. This was changed to the 10km. Now I'm going to a Gluten-free expo which happens to be on this weekend, at the Exhibition Centre. These days little things like this can get me very excited! So no Ewen, no running for me this weekend.
Thanks SpeedyG for your thought - I am definitely feeling much better now and my running kinda resembles running these days.
iliketoast / Tesso - chocolate, on the whole, is gluten-free. How cool is that!!! (ok there are things I can't eat chocolate-wise but there is still enough for me to occasionally indulge in) And Tesso, you commented previously about Gym Maintenance 101 - or more precisely asked what it was. As part of my Cert 3 Fitness course, we have to look at the equipment in the gym and the types of things that can go wrong, break down, loosen, etc and how to repair them (or at least the basic uncomplicated stuff). Very underwhelming but I'm sure its very useful information. My usual response however when things break down is to delegate!
The original plan for going to Melbourne, many months ago now, was to run the marathon. Then this was revised to the half marathon. This was changed to the 10km. Now I'm going to a Gluten-free expo which happens to be on this weekend, at the Exhibition Centre. These days little things like this can get me very excited! So no Ewen, no running for me this weekend.
Thanks SpeedyG for your thought - I am definitely feeling much better now and my running kinda resembles running these days.
iliketoast / Tesso - chocolate, on the whole, is gluten-free. How cool is that!!! (ok there are things I can't eat chocolate-wise but there is still enough for me to occasionally indulge in) And Tesso, you commented previously about Gym Maintenance 101 - or more precisely asked what it was. As part of my Cert 3 Fitness course, we have to look at the equipment in the gym and the types of things that can go wrong, break down, loosen, etc and how to repair them (or at least the basic uncomplicated stuff). Very underwhelming but I'm sure its very useful information. My usual response however when things break down is to delegate!
Monday, October 06, 2008
An entree
I finally feel like I am well on my way to full recovery. This morning I ran a 6km interval session and I felt great during and after the run. Lately each run has been really hard work, the pace has been oh so slow, and I've been so relieved to finish - I really wasn't enjoying it. But I persevered because I missed the feeling of freedom when running and I knew it must still be there somewhere. And today I tasted it again - an entree so to speak! Admittedly it was only 6km and the pace would not be considered fast by many people but for me oh boy, it felt so good. Woo hoo!
And fortunately I managed to fit my run in during the morning because then the showers came and it got very soggy and very cool outside.
Then this afternoon I did a lower body and arms weights session. Can't you see my halo sparkling?!
Plus this weekend I also managed to complete and lodge 4 tax returns and complete my Cert 3 Fitness assignment - a maintenance log and schedule for 2 types of pin loaded weight machines, a cardiovascular machine and free weights (now that was exciting - NOT!). And the reason for all of this activity?
We are having a long weekend next weekend in Melbourne - can't wait!
And fortunately I managed to fit my run in during the morning because then the showers came and it got very soggy and very cool outside.
Then this afternoon I did a lower body and arms weights session. Can't you see my halo sparkling?!
Plus this weekend I also managed to complete and lodge 4 tax returns and complete my Cert 3 Fitness assignment - a maintenance log and schedule for 2 types of pin loaded weight machines, a cardiovascular machine and free weights (now that was exciting - NOT!). And the reason for all of this activity?
We are having a long weekend next weekend in Melbourne - can't wait!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Not all rice crackers are created equal
This I learned the hard day last night/this morning. Last night while at class (doing the ever-exciting Gym Maintenance 101) I had some rice crackers. The person who was offering assured me they were fine to eat and silly me, I also assumed they would be fine. Not so!
A night of sweats, bloating and headaches and a morning of severe stomach pains and other symptoms - all this from a couple of suspect rice crackers.
Then I received a very apologetic call from one very upset friend. She thought she had packed the gluten-free rice crackers for class but had mistakenly packed the other ones instead - ones containing gluten.
Oh well - live and learn. But I will be more careful next time someone offers me a snack.
A night of sweats, bloating and headaches and a morning of severe stomach pains and other symptoms - all this from a couple of suspect rice crackers.
Then I received a very apologetic call from one very upset friend. She thought she had packed the gluten-free rice crackers for class but had mistakenly packed the other ones instead - ones containing gluten.
Oh well - live and learn. But I will be more careful next time someone offers me a snack.
Mullet Monday
This entry is not about running.
After all you really don't want to hear that "I ran 5km, it was hard; or geez I struggled in that 8km I ran on the weekend". Boring.......
At the moment my running is just not that interesting (if it ever was). My goal hasn't changed - I am still aiming for SFT in 2009, though at the moment it feels like I am at the bottom of one of those huuuuge hills wondering how on earth I am going to make it up to the top!!!!
So there won't be too many running entries until things get a bit more interesting than the slow 5km - 8km along the cycle path.
However I did go to the gym Monday lunchtime. Now this is a time of the day that I don't usually go to the gym but I was too tired that morning to get out of bed to do anything that looked remotely more active than eating breakfast, showering etc!! So I made a promise to myself that I would go to the gym at lunchtime. Now this is usually a hollow promise - one where mentally I go "yeah, yeah - until it gets to lunchtime and then there will be a brief to do, someone to ring, a meeting to go to, or more importantly a coffee date". But I kept my promise and found myself in my gym gear in a busy gym at lunchtime.
What struck me first was the number of young guys were there - they must be from the nearby college. The next thing that struck me - I didn't know mullets were back in style! Boys, boys, boys - the mullet style is not stylish, trendy or god forbid, sexy. What on earth has possessed you to adopt this ridiculous style? Apologies to anyone reading who is a fan of mullet hairstyles but for me it conjures up scary memories of Billy Ray Cyrus *shudder* The mullet is up there with those 'orrible little rats tails that some guys have - you know the ones - they have either shaved their heads or its very very short but they persist with either a little fringe or a rats tail or both. *double shudder*.
So there you go. Now you know one of my pet hates!
After all you really don't want to hear that "I ran 5km, it was hard; or geez I struggled in that 8km I ran on the weekend". Boring.......
At the moment my running is just not that interesting (if it ever was). My goal hasn't changed - I am still aiming for SFT in 2009, though at the moment it feels like I am at the bottom of one of those huuuuge hills wondering how on earth I am going to make it up to the top!!!!
So there won't be too many running entries until things get a bit more interesting than the slow 5km - 8km along the cycle path.
However I did go to the gym Monday lunchtime. Now this is a time of the day that I don't usually go to the gym but I was too tired that morning to get out of bed to do anything that looked remotely more active than eating breakfast, showering etc!! So I made a promise to myself that I would go to the gym at lunchtime. Now this is usually a hollow promise - one where mentally I go "yeah, yeah - until it gets to lunchtime and then there will be a brief to do, someone to ring, a meeting to go to, or more importantly a coffee date". But I kept my promise and found myself in my gym gear in a busy gym at lunchtime.
What struck me first was the number of young guys were there - they must be from the nearby college. The next thing that struck me - I didn't know mullets were back in style! Boys, boys, boys - the mullet style is not stylish, trendy or god forbid, sexy. What on earth has possessed you to adopt this ridiculous style? Apologies to anyone reading who is a fan of mullet hairstyles but for me it conjures up scary memories of Billy Ray Cyrus *shudder* The mullet is up there with those 'orrible little rats tails that some guys have - you know the ones - they have either shaved their heads or its very very short but they persist with either a little fringe or a rats tail or both. *double shudder*.
So there you go. Now you know one of my pet hates!
Monday, September 08, 2008
The Road to Six Foot Track 2009……
This morning I started running. Or more specifically, I started the Couch to 5km program – a program I have actually used with work colleagues and my son, all of whom were non-runners. However at my current level of fitness and dodgy health status, I thought it was probably an appropriate starting point for me too!
The session this morning started with a 5min brisk walk warm up, followed by 8 x 1min jog (90sec walk). I began really well, I thought. It was like, wow, I haven’t forgotten how to run, I’m not huffing and puffing, this is good. By the 5th 1min jog, it was more like gosh, how many more of these blasted intervals do I have left, it’s a bit harder than I thought, where’s my puffer?! But in all honesty it did feel good to be back outdoors and doing something that vaguely resembles physical exercise. After 6 weeks of doing bugger all, this felt great…..after I had got my breath back and my heart rate had dropped from alarming levels.
In five months I will be running Six Foot track. Today was the just the beginning of that journey!
The session this morning started with a 5min brisk walk warm up, followed by 8 x 1min jog (90sec walk). I began really well, I thought. It was like, wow, I haven’t forgotten how to run, I’m not huffing and puffing, this is good. By the 5th 1min jog, it was more like gosh, how many more of these blasted intervals do I have left, it’s a bit harder than I thought, where’s my puffer?! But in all honesty it did feel good to be back outdoors and doing something that vaguely resembles physical exercise. After 6 weeks of doing bugger all, this felt great…..after I had got my breath back and my heart rate had dropped from alarming levels.
In five months I will be running Six Foot track. Today was the just the beginning of that journey!
Monday, September 01, 2008
The light at the end of the tunnel
It has only taken me all of the month of August but I think I am finally recovering from a bout of pneumonia, which was further compounded by sinusitis and complicated by a recent diagnosis of Coeliac disease. So I think I’ll just forget the month of August and move on….
Today is the first day of Spring and Mother Nature has certainly laid the weather on – gorgeous sunny blue sky, no clouds (that I can see while gazing out my window at work, taking a break from the squillions of emails that have accumulated since I’ve been away).
I haven’t run for over a month now. I went for a walk to the local shops on Saturday and suffered with DOMS on Sunday – sad, isn’t it! So I’ll focus on doing some more walking this week and maybe try slow jogging next week, fingers crossed. But at least I am up, out of bed, back at work, and feeling halfway normal – can’t wait until I feel 100% healthy again!
Today is the first day of Spring and Mother Nature has certainly laid the weather on – gorgeous sunny blue sky, no clouds (that I can see while gazing out my window at work, taking a break from the squillions of emails that have accumulated since I’ve been away).
I haven’t run for over a month now. I went for a walk to the local shops on Saturday and suffered with DOMS on Sunday – sad, isn’t it! So I’ll focus on doing some more walking this week and maybe try slow jogging next week, fingers crossed. But at least I am up, out of bed, back at work, and feeling halfway normal – can’t wait until I feel 100% healthy again!
Friday, August 08, 2008
Temporary break in transmission
CJ would like to apologise for the temporary break in transmission - normal programming will resume as soon as possible.
I am currently laid low with pneumonia and have recently been diagnosed with Silly Yaks disease. This has put a real dampener on things - no breakfast with Strewth and Mr B yesterday, no going out to dinner tonight with friends, and no Sydney this weekend.......*sob*
Good luck (and more importantly have fun) to everyone doing the City to Surf this weekend - I am very jealous. I will be thinking of you.
I am currently laid low with pneumonia and have recently been diagnosed with Silly Yaks disease. This has put a real dampener on things - no breakfast with Strewth and Mr B yesterday, no going out to dinner tonight with friends, and no Sydney this weekend.......*sob*
Good luck (and more importantly have fun) to everyone doing the City to Surf this weekend - I am very jealous. I will be thinking of you.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Bush Capital 25km
I had decided about a week or so ago that I would enter the Bush Capital 25km event that was held last Saturday morning. I have run the event on 2 previous occasions, the last time being back in 2006.
So it was I fronted up in freezing conditions Saturday morning for the 9am start not feeling particularly enthused about running through the Mt Ainslie and Majura nature parks when I had lost feeling in most of my fingers and my legs were turning a chilly shade of purple. The first kilometre of this course is particularly challenging, especially as I like to ease into hills at the best of times. Its not that the start is particularly steep but just that the path gradually rises upwards. My legs had gone lactic and I still had 24km to go!
For most of the run there was a discussion (argument?) going on between my mind and my body (generally my legs) which went something like this:
Body (legs): Are we there yet? This is too hard – lets stop and walk a bit
Mind: don’t be so wimpy; just take it slowly. You’re not worried about times so enjoy it.
15mins later
Body (legs again): Are we there yet? This hill is too hard – we’ll have to walk.
Mind agrees: I walk the first of many hills
About a km before the turn for the 16km runners
Mind: you know you do have the option of doing the 16km course instead of the 25km one. The pain could be over with a whole lot earlier.
(The faster 16km runners had overtaken me at this point)
Body decides to show a streak of stubborness and refuses to wimp out. A quick drink at the drink station and then we pass the point of no return - on to Majura nature park. Body then regrets streak of stubborness. Mind has switched off and is focused on the music instead - anything to blot out the tiredness and the constant 'are we there yet?' from body. After all body was given the chance to do the 16km and knocked it back, so suffer!
By now feeling and colour have returned to fingers. Long sleeved top is off and tied around the waist. Concentrate on footing - the last thing I want is to do a CJ out on the course (there were a couple of people who weren't so lucky and were sporting bloodied knees and arms). Occasionally pass a walker - feel really good about this. Ok, so they might only be walking but hey I'm happy to pass anyone at this stage, though there was a time heading up a hill when I couldn't catch the walker, and I was running. Sad, I know. Started seeing runners returning after reaching the turn around - some look way too comfortable and relaxed. Others more closely resemble how I feel. Say hi to Mango as he goes past (he's one of those infuriatingly relaxed runners).
On the return trip I focus on the runner in front of me and try not to let the gap between us get any bigger. Pass some more walkers plus the occasional runner. Mind and body have finally made a pact to work together to get me over the finish line - then I think both will be rebel and refuse to do anything else for the rest of the day. I start to appreciate nature and accompanying chorus of cockatoos - not the most musical bird song but quintessentially Australian. Finally the finish line comes into view and then its over - that's my long run for the day done and dusted - mind and body very happy. Then I spent almost as long trying to unpin my number and hand it to one of the officials - there was no hand/eye coordination happening. Stand around for some chit chat, make arrangements to meet Jen and others later in the day (Jen went on to do an awesome 10km time on a tough course) and then I headed off home for a) coffee, b) shower and c) a doze on the couch before meeting up with Strewth, Rochelle, Aki and Jen at Tilleys for a very pleasant couple of hours (and to hear about the up and coming Jen's Big Adventure).
Later heard that Kelley did 3hr 41min in the marathon and was the second female. To quote Strewth, "awesome!"
So it was I fronted up in freezing conditions Saturday morning for the 9am start not feeling particularly enthused about running through the Mt Ainslie and Majura nature parks when I had lost feeling in most of my fingers and my legs were turning a chilly shade of purple. The first kilometre of this course is particularly challenging, especially as I like to ease into hills at the best of times. Its not that the start is particularly steep but just that the path gradually rises upwards. My legs had gone lactic and I still had 24km to go!
For most of the run there was a discussion (argument?) going on between my mind and my body (generally my legs) which went something like this:
Body (legs): Are we there yet? This is too hard – lets stop and walk a bit
Mind: don’t be so wimpy; just take it slowly. You’re not worried about times so enjoy it.
15mins later
Body (legs again): Are we there yet? This hill is too hard – we’ll have to walk.
Mind agrees: I walk the first of many hills
About a km before the turn for the 16km runners
Mind: you know you do have the option of doing the 16km course instead of the 25km one. The pain could be over with a whole lot earlier.
(The faster 16km runners had overtaken me at this point)
Body decides to show a streak of stubborness and refuses to wimp out. A quick drink at the drink station and then we pass the point of no return - on to Majura nature park. Body then regrets streak of stubborness. Mind has switched off and is focused on the music instead - anything to blot out the tiredness and the constant 'are we there yet?' from body. After all body was given the chance to do the 16km and knocked it back, so suffer!
By now feeling and colour have returned to fingers. Long sleeved top is off and tied around the waist. Concentrate on footing - the last thing I want is to do a CJ out on the course (there were a couple of people who weren't so lucky and were sporting bloodied knees and arms). Occasionally pass a walker - feel really good about this. Ok, so they might only be walking but hey I'm happy to pass anyone at this stage, though there was a time heading up a hill when I couldn't catch the walker, and I was running. Sad, I know. Started seeing runners returning after reaching the turn around - some look way too comfortable and relaxed. Others more closely resemble how I feel. Say hi to Mango as he goes past (he's one of those infuriatingly relaxed runners).
On the return trip I focus on the runner in front of me and try not to let the gap between us get any bigger. Pass some more walkers plus the occasional runner. Mind and body have finally made a pact to work together to get me over the finish line - then I think both will be rebel and refuse to do anything else for the rest of the day. I start to appreciate nature and accompanying chorus of cockatoos - not the most musical bird song but quintessentially Australian. Finally the finish line comes into view and then its over - that's my long run for the day done and dusted - mind and body very happy. Then I spent almost as long trying to unpin my number and hand it to one of the officials - there was no hand/eye coordination happening. Stand around for some chit chat, make arrangements to meet Jen and others later in the day (Jen went on to do an awesome 10km time on a tough course) and then I headed off home for a) coffee, b) shower and c) a doze on the couch before meeting up with Strewth, Rochelle, Aki and Jen at Tilleys for a very pleasant couple of hours (and to hear about the up and coming Jen's Big Adventure).
Later heard that Kelley did 3hr 41min in the marathon and was the second female. To quote Strewth, "awesome!"
Thursday, July 17, 2008
The Cold Coast
Just a quick note as I'm about to head home but thought I should post something about the Cold Coast marathon (and no, its no typo!). The weather was abysmal and I even purchased a thermal top at the Expo, as well as a snazzy pair of "skins-type" running knicks, black and pink short sleeved and long sleeved tops...... Then at Harbourtown I bought the cutest pink running top with 'Chocolate without the Guilt' on the front (hmmmm).
Met up with Roger, Ewen and LL for dinner on Friday evening at Tooleys - had a really delicious risotto. Then we went back to LL's amazing apartment - one very swish, stylish apartment.
We had lunch and coffees with Katy and Ewen on Saturday - when the weather was at its worst (rain, wind, and cold). It was great to catch up with Katy (soon to be an aussie - oi, oi, oi!) but never managed to catch up with Mark - a cryin' shame.
What's that? The marathon? You want to hear about the marathon? You don't really but if you insist - it was very ordinary but then my running has been very ordinary lately (like the last 8 months). However there is a very good (medical) reason for the decline, and hopefully things may pick up shortly.
I had a revelation while chasing the green balloons (the 3.30hr pacer) - a) I wasn't going to catch him, b) for the past few months I haven't been enjoying my running because I've been too focused on trying to run PBs and getting nowhere fast and running was becoming a chore, and c) this was going to change as of now (probably about the 10km mark of the marathon!). So I settled into some sort of rhythm and just enjoyed the journey rather than beating myself up for not meeting a particular 'time'.
And that's how I'm going to run from now on - no PBs in time, no beating myself up for not meeting some arbitrary time, and enjoying the journey. If I do run a good time then that will be a bonus - but its not the sole focus of my running.
Next event - Bush Capital 25km. Bring it on!!!!
Met up with Roger, Ewen and LL for dinner on Friday evening at Tooleys - had a really delicious risotto. Then we went back to LL's amazing apartment - one very swish, stylish apartment.
We had lunch and coffees with Katy and Ewen on Saturday - when the weather was at its worst (rain, wind, and cold). It was great to catch up with Katy (soon to be an aussie - oi, oi, oi!) but never managed to catch up with Mark - a cryin' shame.
What's that? The marathon? You want to hear about the marathon? You don't really but if you insist - it was very ordinary but then my running has been very ordinary lately (like the last 8 months). However there is a very good (medical) reason for the decline, and hopefully things may pick up shortly.
I had a revelation while chasing the green balloons (the 3.30hr pacer) - a) I wasn't going to catch him, b) for the past few months I haven't been enjoying my running because I've been too focused on trying to run PBs and getting nowhere fast and running was becoming a chore, and c) this was going to change as of now (probably about the 10km mark of the marathon!). So I settled into some sort of rhythm and just enjoyed the journey rather than beating myself up for not meeting a particular 'time'.
And that's how I'm going to run from now on - no PBs in time, no beating myself up for not meeting some arbitrary time, and enjoying the journey. If I do run a good time then that will be a bonus - but its not the sole focus of my running.
Next event - Bush Capital 25km. Bring it on!!!!
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