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!
Monday, September 08, 2008
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!!!!
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Minus one degree but who’s counting
Went for a run this morning resembling the Michelin woman, I had that many layers on. It was cold, clear and frosty and a very chilly minus one degree. My face was frozen into a Joker-like grimace. The only thing that kept me going was the thought that tomorrow I’ll be on the Gold Coast, tomorrow I’ll be on the Gold Coast…..
I had a quick look at the weather forecast for the Gold Coast, for the weekend, and they are forecasting showers and a maximum of 21 degrees (the minimum temperatures are our maximums!) Looking out the window just now it looks like a lovely day – blue skies, no wind……until you actually go outside and the cold air hits you.
Good luck to those who are running anywhere on the weekend. The next time you’ll hear from me will be after the marathon…..some time…..
I had a quick look at the weather forecast for the Gold Coast, for the weekend, and they are forecasting showers and a maximum of 21 degrees (the minimum temperatures are our maximums!) Looking out the window just now it looks like a lovely day – blue skies, no wind……until you actually go outside and the cold air hits you.
Good luck to those who are running anywhere on the weekend. The next time you’ll hear from me will be after the marathon…..some time…..
Monday, June 30, 2008
But wait there’s more……
This coming Sunday I’m running in the Gold Coast marathon. I’ve trained as best as I can, with Pat’s guidance and encouragement, even though my goal times and actual times are getting further and further apart! I’m relatively injury-free. I’m looking forward to a break up on the Gold Coast with 2 of my bestest friends, and hopefully we’ll have some warm weather. Shopping doesn’t look too bad either.
So what’s next on the agenda? I’ve decided to do something completely different and *drum roll* will be part of a 4 person team doing the 100km Oxfam Trailwalker in late August (Hawkesbury to Sydney). I met with two of the team members for coffee today and agreed to help them out after one of their original members had to pull out for personal reasons. It sounds like a big adventure and I like the fact that its done as a team – we start together and finish together. So I have a few long walks to do once the marathon is over, including one that will start at 7am and finish at 7pm, and another weekend where we will do a 40km walk both days. There will also be a couple of night walks of a couple of hours to look forward to, so we can get used to walking in the bush with headlamps.
But first things first, this Sunday – I am focused, I am pumped, I am so ready………for a great weekend on the GC!!!!! Oh, and there’s that little run I have to do while I’m there!!!!!!!!!
So what’s next on the agenda? I’ve decided to do something completely different and *drum roll* will be part of a 4 person team doing the 100km Oxfam Trailwalker in late August (Hawkesbury to Sydney). I met with two of the team members for coffee today and agreed to help them out after one of their original members had to pull out for personal reasons. It sounds like a big adventure and I like the fact that its done as a team – we start together and finish together. So I have a few long walks to do once the marathon is over, including one that will start at 7am and finish at 7pm, and another weekend where we will do a 40km walk both days. There will also be a couple of night walks of a couple of hours to look forward to, so we can get used to walking in the bush with headlamps.
But first things first, this Sunday – I am focused, I am pumped, I am so ready………for a great weekend on the GC!!!!! Oh, and there’s that little run I have to do while I’m there!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
It's been a while.........
Told you I had some work to do before the Half ironman triathlon in December!!!!!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Mission accomplished and Go Charlie Go!!!!!!!
I know this entry is a little late but since the marathon I’ve been flat out trying to finish an assignment, and submit it, and work to a deadline on a presentation at work
As you may, or may not be aware, the lead up to Canberra marathon was plagued by injury, illness and infection. Not to mention, the odd binge or two on chocolate due to the all of the problems I was experiencing (I had to get my endorphins somehow and I certainly wasn’t getting them from running).
Anyhoo marathon day dawned black, wet and there was lightning – hardly an auspicious start.
Actually you’ve read everyone else’s reports and seen the photos so let me just say that I ran the marathon comfortably, 10mins slower than last year and the injury held out (tho there were a couple of times I was pretty worried). My official time: 3hr 37.41min, 7th woman in my age group, and 395th of 1,041 competitors.
The best thing about the day though was that Charlie ran a huuuuge PB by about 11 mins and we managed to run together or close to each other for pretty much most of it. So a big well done to Charlie – you did well!!!!
So now it’s on to training for Gold Coast marathon. I do have a goal time in mind but will keep it quiet for now, won’t we Tesso!!!!!
And I’m planning on doing the Canberra Half Ironman triathlon in December this year (I must be stark raving mad) so I’m going to gradually add in swimming and cycling sessions. At least I’ve given myself plenty of time.
ps A big thankyou to that amazing cheersquad duo - Katy and Mark. Anyone that can make me laugh when everything is hurting has to be doing a great job! Thanks guys!
As you may, or may not be aware, the lead up to Canberra marathon was plagued by injury, illness and infection. Not to mention, the odd binge or two on chocolate due to the all of the problems I was experiencing (I had to get my endorphins somehow and I certainly wasn’t getting them from running).
Anyhoo marathon day dawned black, wet and there was lightning – hardly an auspicious start.
Actually you’ve read everyone else’s reports and seen the photos so let me just say that I ran the marathon comfortably, 10mins slower than last year and the injury held out (tho there were a couple of times I was pretty worried). My official time: 3hr 37.41min, 7th woman in my age group, and 395th of 1,041 competitors.
The best thing about the day though was that Charlie ran a huuuuge PB by about 11 mins and we managed to run together or close to each other for pretty much most of it. So a big well done to Charlie – you did well!!!!
So now it’s on to training for Gold Coast marathon. I do have a goal time in mind but will keep it quiet for now, won’t we Tesso!!!!!
And I’m planning on doing the Canberra Half Ironman triathlon in December this year (I must be stark raving mad) so I’m going to gradually add in swimming and cycling sessions. At least I’ve given myself plenty of time.
ps A big thankyou to that amazing cheersquad duo - Katy and Mark. Anyone that can make me laugh when everything is hurting has to be doing a great job! Thanks guys!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Warning - Black cloud hovering
The marathon is 13 days away and right now the physio has ordered no running for 5 days. You're kidding right? I've started my taper, its true, but this is ridiculous.....a sudden taper you might say. This has only been issue #546 that I have had training for this marathon. It seems I run okay for a couple of weeks and then *pfffft* something happens - I get sick (a few times now), I fall (and I don't even have to be out running for this to happen), work/study/home/life gets in the way......
So what's the problem this time? Well it seems that I have aggravated something (muscular or neural we're not quite sure but probably a bit of both) in my glute that is having an effect on my hamstrings and generating some swelling on the medial/posterior side of my left leg. When some strength tests were tried on my left leg I couldn't do them - there is no strength there, no matter how hard I tried to exert some pressure. How did this happen? Thinking back, I did slip down a rocky slope after the Skyfire fireworks a couple of weeks ago, and landed very heavily on a rock, on my left glute. Its been since then that the problem has developed, especially while running while away at the coast over Easter.
So I'm cranky, tired, miserable, eating to compensate for not running and basically indulging in self sabotage. I see the physio again on Wednesday after having run that morning. Fingers crossed there is some improvement. At the moment I am weaning myself off chocolate (who am I kidding - I've gone cold turkey) and eating apples instead. Not quite the same really. But I don't want to waddle to the marathon start either!
Waaaaaaaaaaah!
So what's the problem this time? Well it seems that I have aggravated something (muscular or neural we're not quite sure but probably a bit of both) in my glute that is having an effect on my hamstrings and generating some swelling on the medial/posterior side of my left leg. When some strength tests were tried on my left leg I couldn't do them - there is no strength there, no matter how hard I tried to exert some pressure. How did this happen? Thinking back, I did slip down a rocky slope after the Skyfire fireworks a couple of weeks ago, and landed very heavily on a rock, on my left glute. Its been since then that the problem has developed, especially while running while away at the coast over Easter.
So I'm cranky, tired, miserable, eating to compensate for not running and basically indulging in self sabotage. I see the physio again on Wednesday after having run that morning. Fingers crossed there is some improvement. At the moment I am weaning myself off chocolate (who am I kidding - I've gone cold turkey) and eating apples instead. Not quite the same really. But I don't want to waddle to the marathon start either!
Waaaaaaaaaaah!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
I'm still here....
I noticed Ewen's comment on Two Fruits blog - something about CJ's blog biting the dust. Ewen, never mention CJ and 'biting the dust' in the same sentence please! That's just asking for trouble.
I have been running - 32km at the Cotter on Saturday (with two Fruits) - for a flat run it was rather hilly!!!!!!! Still, there was no walking and joy, oh joy, there was a mobile coffee stand at the finish. I thought I was seeing things - had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming! It would have been perfect if they also sold Magnum icecreams! Anyway a great run and great company.
This morning I did a 20km run before work. It went something like this: Up at 4.30am for my first breakfast of toast, banana and honey. Out the door at 5.30am for a run around the 'burbs under the street lights because it was dark. About 6.15am stopped off at home for something to drink. Then headed offroad up behind Hawker and then ran parts of the Pinnacle nature park. Home again about 7.40am for my second breakfast - omelette made with 1 egg and 3 egg whites. Shower and then off to work by 9.30am.
Off to Hyams Beach over easter - it can't come soon enough!
I have been running - 32km at the Cotter on Saturday (with two Fruits) - for a flat run it was rather hilly!!!!!!! Still, there was no walking and joy, oh joy, there was a mobile coffee stand at the finish. I thought I was seeing things - had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming! It would have been perfect if they also sold Magnum icecreams! Anyway a great run and great company.
This morning I did a 20km run before work. It went something like this: Up at 4.30am for my first breakfast of toast, banana and honey. Out the door at 5.30am for a run around the 'burbs under the street lights because it was dark. About 6.15am stopped off at home for something to drink. Then headed offroad up behind Hawker and then ran parts of the Pinnacle nature park. Home again about 7.40am for my second breakfast - omelette made with 1 egg and 3 egg whites. Shower and then off to work by 9.30am.
Off to Hyams Beach over easter - it can't come soon enough!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
I didn’t recognise you with your clothes on!
Now that’s a statement guaranteed to get some looks in a busy shopping centre! And this was the comment I got from Katie (one of the speedy geese) as I was on my way back to work after lunch today! There were a few sideways glances our way after this announcement!
But that’s probably the most exciting thing that has happened to me today.
I ran a 12km fartlek session this morning, mentally reciting the names and positions of the skull bones as I was doing this. Then it was a quick revision of anatomical and movement terminology.
No classes tonight but I will be attempting my first legal principles assignment.
Today's fantale tally: 6
Yesterday: no fantales but 5 sherbies
Tuesday: 9 fantales
But that’s probably the most exciting thing that has happened to me today.
I ran a 12km fartlek session this morning, mentally reciting the names and positions of the skull bones as I was doing this. Then it was a quick revision of anatomical and movement terminology.
No classes tonight but I will be attempting my first legal principles assignment.
Today's fantale tally: 6
Yesterday: no fantales but 5 sherbies
Tuesday: 9 fantales
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Breathe deeply…slowly…….reeeelllllaaaaaxxxx
Aaaargh! I’m drowning in assignments and homework – don’t these lecturers realise I have a life? That I must run 100km for the week and go to work for at least 8 hours a day? And then somewhere in there communicate with the family…in person…face to face. And sleep….and eat….and do all those other things ‘normal’ people do.
Calm down, breeeaaathe……
I ran a total of 100km for the week, last week. It was my heavy week. This week is an easy week thank goodness. So I am remembering how to have an intelligible, let alone intelligent, conversation, not fall asleep at the table, and not have that glazed, dazed look at work – doesn’t inspire much confidence apparently!
On Sunday I ran the monthly vets’ event at North Curtin – a 6km course that includes a hill at the start before a lovely downhill stretch followed by a flattish bit on a cycle path. This month I started in group 35 (down from group 36) and watched as the others in my group took off leaving me in their wake. Not to worry – I had already run 7km that morning, before breakfast, so I had no grand plans of setting any land speed records. However I did manage to pick up some speed and managed to say hi to Mr B, Strewth, Charmaine and Geoff B as I passed them (not necessarily in that order). It was a good run and by the time I had crossed the finish line 27.57min later I had completed my 100km for the week! Yay!
Sat through the riveting subject of Contracts last night in the Risk Analysis, OH&S and Legal Principles class – it was about as exciting as my previous classes on negligence and duty of care. Thank goodness the lecturer has a sense of humour. Fortunately there are only 4 more classes left for this unit. Unfortunately there are also 2 assignments and one is due in 3 weeks time. On Wednesday nights we have anatomy and physiology – far more interesting. Though I have to say I can’t recall from my nursing days (way back in the dim dark past) there being so many bloody bones to remember! I’m trying not to confuse my sesamoid with the flat, the long with the short, the tibia from the fibula, the femur from the humerus….you get the picture! Not forgetting the medullary canal, diaphysis, epiphyses, etc, etc. And this unit also involves weekly worksheets, an exam and a presentation including a class handout.
Breeeaaathe……reeeelaaaaax………
And did I mention the dancing fantales? No, maybe not, let’s not even go there……..
Calm down, breeeaaathe……
I ran a total of 100km for the week, last week. It was my heavy week. This week is an easy week thank goodness. So I am remembering how to have an intelligible, let alone intelligent, conversation, not fall asleep at the table, and not have that glazed, dazed look at work – doesn’t inspire much confidence apparently!
On Sunday I ran the monthly vets’ event at North Curtin – a 6km course that includes a hill at the start before a lovely downhill stretch followed by a flattish bit on a cycle path. This month I started in group 35 (down from group 36) and watched as the others in my group took off leaving me in their wake. Not to worry – I had already run 7km that morning, before breakfast, so I had no grand plans of setting any land speed records. However I did manage to pick up some speed and managed to say hi to Mr B, Strewth, Charmaine and Geoff B as I passed them (not necessarily in that order). It was a good run and by the time I had crossed the finish line 27.57min later I had completed my 100km for the week! Yay!
Sat through the riveting subject of Contracts last night in the Risk Analysis, OH&S and Legal Principles class – it was about as exciting as my previous classes on negligence and duty of care. Thank goodness the lecturer has a sense of humour. Fortunately there are only 4 more classes left for this unit. Unfortunately there are also 2 assignments and one is due in 3 weeks time. On Wednesday nights we have anatomy and physiology – far more interesting. Though I have to say I can’t recall from my nursing days (way back in the dim dark past) there being so many bloody bones to remember! I’m trying not to confuse my sesamoid with the flat, the long with the short, the tibia from the fibula, the femur from the humerus….you get the picture! Not forgetting the medullary canal, diaphysis, epiphyses, etc, etc. And this unit also involves weekly worksheets, an exam and a presentation including a class handout.
Breeeaaathe……reeeelaaaaax………
And did I mention the dancing fantales? No, maybe not, let’s not even go there……..
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Gym…..race…..hilly run…..feeling wasted…….
It’s been a busy couple of days exercise-wise. Yesterday morning I fronted up at the gym for the first of my twice-weekly weights session. I think it will be time to tweak my program soon – I’ve been doing this one for a while. I had to rush through the session as I had an early meeting down in Tuggeranong (my gym is in Woden) – I hate early meetings. But then on the other hand at least then its out of the way.
After work it was time to head off for the second race in the cross country Summer series – this one was a 5km at Weston Park. The weather was very different to last week – not as hot, it was overcast with a breeze blowing, though it felt very warm while running. All the usual suspects were there and I got to catch up with Kelley. It was lovely to catch up. The course was definitely cross country – all on grass, which can be hard and tiring if you’re not used to it. I would have preferred not to have gone out too fast…again. Next week I plan on negative splitting and finishing the race strongly, not just barely holding on. The other thing is that I have to get up for a medium long run the next morning so I really don’t want to go hard the night before.
This morning I ran 16km up hill and down dale. I was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t feel as tired as expected. The run itself was uneventful though I did see a lot more people out running this morning. It was also quite foggy.
The rest of the day I felt wasted – the gym/run sessions of the last couple of days had finally caught up with me and my brain has turned to mush. My bed is looking really good right about now………
After work it was time to head off for the second race in the cross country Summer series – this one was a 5km at Weston Park. The weather was very different to last week – not as hot, it was overcast with a breeze blowing, though it felt very warm while running. All the usual suspects were there and I got to catch up with Kelley. It was lovely to catch up. The course was definitely cross country – all on grass, which can be hard and tiring if you’re not used to it. I would have preferred not to have gone out too fast…again. Next week I plan on negative splitting and finishing the race strongly, not just barely holding on. The other thing is that I have to get up for a medium long run the next morning so I really don’t want to go hard the night before.
This morning I ran 16km up hill and down dale. I was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t feel as tired as expected. The run itself was uneventful though I did see a lot more people out running this morning. It was also quite foggy.
The rest of the day I felt wasted – the gym/run sessions of the last couple of days had finally caught up with me and my brain has turned to mush. My bed is looking really good right about now………
Monday, February 04, 2008
Dreary day – dreary mood
Rain is good, don’t get me wrong but I do like the blue sunny skies. There is no sign of sunny blue skies today – it’s grey, cloudy, and drizzly. Perfect weather to be home reading a good book (I’m currently reading The Power of One – Bryce Courtney), not sitting in a cold office, in front of a computer.
Running-wise, I ran 20km on Saturday. It was thoroughly enjoyable as it was my easy week and after having run 34km the week before, the 20km seemed like a jog in the park(!). Then it was off for a much-needed massage in the afternoon – pleasure and pain, what can I say?! I finished the day with pizza at Zeffirelli’s with a group of very dear friends.
Sunday warranted a sleep-in, which I had, and then I ran a very gentle 6km before breakfast. In the afternoon I met up with Strewth, Rachelle and Ewen for coffee at Tilley’s. It was a great afternoon – I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This morning it was drizzly as I ran my 11km with 2 x 7min at tempo pace (10km pace). The run back home seemed to take forever as my legs felt slow and heavy. And I’ve felt like that ever since – slow and heavy, foggy headed (Mondayitis symptoms I’m sure).
Running-wise, I ran 20km on Saturday. It was thoroughly enjoyable as it was my easy week and after having run 34km the week before, the 20km seemed like a jog in the park(!). Then it was off for a much-needed massage in the afternoon – pleasure and pain, what can I say?! I finished the day with pizza at Zeffirelli’s with a group of very dear friends.
Sunday warranted a sleep-in, which I had, and then I ran a very gentle 6km before breakfast. In the afternoon I met up with Strewth, Rachelle and Ewen for coffee at Tilley’s. It was a great afternoon – I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This morning it was drizzly as I ran my 11km with 2 x 7min at tempo pace (10km pace). The run back home seemed to take forever as my legs felt slow and heavy. And I’ve felt like that ever since – slow and heavy, foggy headed (Mondayitis symptoms I’m sure).
Friday, February 01, 2008
Back to school
Just in case I thought working full-time and marathon training wasn’t enough, I’ve enrolled in Certificate 3 Fitness at CIT. I’ll be studying part-time, with evening classes twice a week. I’ll go straight from work to class on those nights.
For the first semester I will be doing ‘Risk Analysis, OH&S and Legal Principles’ for 9 weeks, then ‘Provide nutrition advice to clients in accordance with recommended guidelines’ for 9 weeks, on Monday evenings, and (wait, there’s more……..)
and I’ll be doing the following units for 18 weeks on Wednesday evenings:
*Apply basic exercise science to exercise instruction
*Provide advice to clients on the application of basic anatomy and physiology to fitness programs
*Implement strategies for dealing with medical conditions in a sport setting
*Develop and apply an awareness of specific populations to exercise delivery
Whew! I’m looking forward to it – new challenges for a new year. Just remind me of my initial enthusiasm and excitement when its halfway through the semester, my motivation levels have plummeted and I’m asking myself why I’m doing this!
And thanks for the lovely comments on my Ironman experience – I have great memories of the day, and, you know, after reading my account there’s that little niggling thought again……!!!!!!
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Last instalment - 42.2km run
........Finally I reappeared, much to the relief of Team Cathy, and started off on my 42.2km run. My plan for the marathon was to run between drink stations, these were about 2km apart, then walk for a minute having something to eat and drink. The first drink station was probably about 200m down the road from the transition area but I stopped nevertheless to have a drink and walk for a minute. I had people encouraging me to run, telling me it wasn't that bad, obviously thinking I had given up before I'd really started!
I ran this course last November in the Half Ironman, and had a very bad experience - I had trained through a Canberra winter so really hadn't done any training in warm, let alone hot, weather and the weather was hot on the day. Also the course is quite hilly and I just couldn't run the hills initially - it probably took me about 10km before I felt like I could really run decently at all. This had been at the back of my mind during all my run training since and I felt that I was better prepared this time - most of my running had been done in the heat of the day and I had run hills ad nauseum, so let me at 'em! The only thing I wasn't sure about was how I'd go running 42.2km after cycling for 180km - I was about to find out!
It was still very warm late in the afternoon so I was still drinking but I was starting to feel bloated and crampy in the belly - not a good sign. What to do? I didn't know whether I should stop drinking sports drink and just stick to water, considering I still had a long way to go and I didn't want to run out of energy and hit the wall. I had a couple of jellybeans at the next drink station but by now I was over sweet food in a big way. I concentrated on watching other competitors and looked forward to seeing Team Cathy again when I completed the 5km Tuncurry loop before heading out on the 16km loop through Forster suburbs. I also got to see the lead woman heading toward the finish as I was heading out on my first 21km loop. Another diversion was to read the chalk messages on the footpaths and road from supporters and yes, I found plenty done by creative members of Team Cathy.
The hills weren't presenting a problem at all and I managed to pass quite a few people this way. Supporters and residents were well spread out on the run course so there weren't many times when you weren't cheered on or alone. I started to drink flat coke and eat vegemite sandwiches and this worked for me. I was feeling great and smiling and laughing which prompted remarks like "you're obviously not running hard enough" or "you're looking far too relaxed - this is supposed to hurt!" I was running along minding my own business when I heard that horn - I knew that sound and it could only mean that Team Cathy were around somewhere. And they were - across the road hanging out the car windows - yelling and hooting for all they were worth!
Coming through to run the second lap I was given an orange scrunchie to wear on my arm indicating that I had already completed one lap - now I was feeling like I was getting somewhere. However, during the 5km Tuncurry loop I was starting to feel really tired and it was taking all my effort to keep running between drink stations. Don't tell me this was it - I was going to hit the wall - I still had 21km to do - not good. I saw Rae Wells up ahead - she was supporting her husband who was also doing the Ironman. I had been seeing Rae on and off throughout the day, on the bike and run. I told her I wanted to stop, I was so tired. "You're not tired - you're feeling great. Come on you can do it - think positively." Yeah right. However I continued on and within a couple of kilometres I was feeling fine and smiling as I came up to pass Team Cathy again, before heading out for my last 16km.
Downhill running was proving to be a challenge as my right ITB was starting to flare up. I had had problems with my ITB early on in training - cycling aggravated it and for a few weeks I couldn't run or cycle far without it hurting. However, at this point in the Ironman nothing was going to stop me from finishing and it was only the downhills that were a little difficult. I was passing so many people now who were walking. I had to pin a glowstick to my top as night began to fall. Soon I was running in the dark and this was also proving to be interesting - I almost tripped over at the 32km mark. Coming to the final turnaround, which meant I only had 8km to go, I almost bumped into two Team Cathy supporters - Ruth and Helen. I don't know who got the biggest shock - them or me!!!
Now I was heading home - I felt as though I was flying up the hills. I could definitely feel my ITB now but with 2km to go it didn't matter - I knew I was going to make it. I was going to finish and I felt great. Spectators were congratulating me and calling me an Ironman even though I hadn't finished yet. Up that last hill and ahead I could see lights and people, lots of people. I could also hear them counting down to 13 hours but the time wasn't important.
Briefly, for about half a second, I thought I was going to cry but excitement took over. I high fived someone I recognised from Canberra. Team Cathy spotted me and I jumped up and down excitedly when I saw them, before high fiving kids lining the sides of the finish chute. I felt a million dollars and my smile was getting bigger and bigger - I had done it. I had made possible what I once thought was impossible - it was a little bit of magic. The announcer, American Mike Reilly, the voice of Ironman, was calling me across the finish line (I was told this after - I was so excited that I missed hearing it!) and then I was finished. After 13hours, 2minutes and 10 seconds of swimming, cycling and running I could finally stop. I am an Ironman!!!!
THE END
I ran this course last November in the Half Ironman, and had a very bad experience - I had trained through a Canberra winter so really hadn't done any training in warm, let alone hot, weather and the weather was hot on the day. Also the course is quite hilly and I just couldn't run the hills initially - it probably took me about 10km before I felt like I could really run decently at all. This had been at the back of my mind during all my run training since and I felt that I was better prepared this time - most of my running had been done in the heat of the day and I had run hills ad nauseum, so let me at 'em! The only thing I wasn't sure about was how I'd go running 42.2km after cycling for 180km - I was about to find out!
It was still very warm late in the afternoon so I was still drinking but I was starting to feel bloated and crampy in the belly - not a good sign. What to do? I didn't know whether I should stop drinking sports drink and just stick to water, considering I still had a long way to go and I didn't want to run out of energy and hit the wall. I had a couple of jellybeans at the next drink station but by now I was over sweet food in a big way. I concentrated on watching other competitors and looked forward to seeing Team Cathy again when I completed the 5km Tuncurry loop before heading out on the 16km loop through Forster suburbs. I also got to see the lead woman heading toward the finish as I was heading out on my first 21km loop. Another diversion was to read the chalk messages on the footpaths and road from supporters and yes, I found plenty done by creative members of Team Cathy.
The hills weren't presenting a problem at all and I managed to pass quite a few people this way. Supporters and residents were well spread out on the run course so there weren't many times when you weren't cheered on or alone. I started to drink flat coke and eat vegemite sandwiches and this worked for me. I was feeling great and smiling and laughing which prompted remarks like "you're obviously not running hard enough" or "you're looking far too relaxed - this is supposed to hurt!" I was running along minding my own business when I heard that horn - I knew that sound and it could only mean that Team Cathy were around somewhere. And they were - across the road hanging out the car windows - yelling and hooting for all they were worth!
Coming through to run the second lap I was given an orange scrunchie to wear on my arm indicating that I had already completed one lap - now I was feeling like I was getting somewhere. However, during the 5km Tuncurry loop I was starting to feel really tired and it was taking all my effort to keep running between drink stations. Don't tell me this was it - I was going to hit the wall - I still had 21km to do - not good. I saw Rae Wells up ahead - she was supporting her husband who was also doing the Ironman. I had been seeing Rae on and off throughout the day, on the bike and run. I told her I wanted to stop, I was so tired. "You're not tired - you're feeling great. Come on you can do it - think positively." Yeah right. However I continued on and within a couple of kilometres I was feeling fine and smiling as I came up to pass Team Cathy again, before heading out for my last 16km.
Downhill running was proving to be a challenge as my right ITB was starting to flare up. I had had problems with my ITB early on in training - cycling aggravated it and for a few weeks I couldn't run or cycle far without it hurting. However, at this point in the Ironman nothing was going to stop me from finishing and it was only the downhills that were a little difficult. I was passing so many people now who were walking. I had to pin a glowstick to my top as night began to fall. Soon I was running in the dark and this was also proving to be interesting - I almost tripped over at the 32km mark. Coming to the final turnaround, which meant I only had 8km to go, I almost bumped into two Team Cathy supporters - Ruth and Helen. I don't know who got the biggest shock - them or me!!!
Now I was heading home - I felt as though I was flying up the hills. I could definitely feel my ITB now but with 2km to go it didn't matter - I knew I was going to make it. I was going to finish and I felt great. Spectators were congratulating me and calling me an Ironman even though I hadn't finished yet. Up that last hill and ahead I could see lights and people, lots of people. I could also hear them counting down to 13 hours but the time wasn't important.
Briefly, for about half a second, I thought I was going to cry but excitement took over. I high fived someone I recognised from Canberra. Team Cathy spotted me and I jumped up and down excitedly when I saw them, before high fiving kids lining the sides of the finish chute. I felt a million dollars and my smile was getting bigger and bigger - I had done it. I had made possible what I once thought was impossible - it was a little bit of magic. The announcer, American Mike Reilly, the voice of Ironman, was calling me across the finish line (I was told this after - I was so excited that I missed hearing it!) and then I was finished. After 13hours, 2minutes and 10 seconds of swimming, cycling and running I could finally stop. I am an Ironman!!!!
THE END
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Part 3: 180.2km cycle
The bike course is two laps of 90.1km of flat to undulating road, varying from satisfactory to poor condition. It was also starting to warm up. Other cyclists whizzed past but I kept telling myself to take it easy, there was a long way to go - 180.2km, in fact. My plan for the bike was to maintain a steady pace and check my bike computer every hour to make sure I was on target. Eating and drinking was going to be important as I was probably going to be on my bike for at least 7 hours and then would have to get off and run a marathon. So I ate sandwiches, bananas, gels, fruit bars, fruit sticks - some I had with me, some I collected as I rode through aid stations. I exchanged a bidon at every station as well, these were 10km apart, alternating between water and sports drink.
Coming back into Forster at the end of my first lap was amazing. Supporters and onlookers had lined the street and were yelling, blowing whistles and making as much noise as possible. Sure enough when I came to the turnaround point I could hear the tell-tale horn and the shrieks and see the bright yellow t-shirts - Team Cathy was pretty excited!
Back out of town for the next 90.1km and it could be very easy to feel overwhelmed about the distance still to cover and the hours still to go but strangely enough I felt fine. I had some minor discomfort, mainly with a niggly backache, and saddle soreness but otherwise I was feeling fine and starting to pass people - some of those who had passed me earlier. It was beginning to get a lot warmer and drinking was even more important. The hills were still out there and some felt a little steeper than the first time around but the downhills still felt pretty good! Also, as I was heading out for my second lap the lead male competitor, Chris McCormack, was heading into town at the end of his cycle! In fact, I think as I was heading out on the run, he was finishing but I digress..............
6 hours and 51 minutes later and I had finished the cycle and was changing into my run gear. I took a little longer with this transition, about 12 minutes, but why rush? I had about 7 hours before the final cut-off so I stretched, had a drink, ate some potato crisps, went to the toilet.
to be continued..........
Coming back into Forster at the end of my first lap was amazing. Supporters and onlookers had lined the street and were yelling, blowing whistles and making as much noise as possible. Sure enough when I came to the turnaround point I could hear the tell-tale horn and the shrieks and see the bright yellow t-shirts - Team Cathy was pretty excited!
Back out of town for the next 90.1km and it could be very easy to feel overwhelmed about the distance still to cover and the hours still to go but strangely enough I felt fine. I had some minor discomfort, mainly with a niggly backache, and saddle soreness but otherwise I was feeling fine and starting to pass people - some of those who had passed me earlier. It was beginning to get a lot warmer and drinking was even more important. The hills were still out there and some felt a little steeper than the first time around but the downhills still felt pretty good! Also, as I was heading out for my second lap the lead male competitor, Chris McCormack, was heading into town at the end of his cycle! In fact, I think as I was heading out on the run, he was finishing but I digress..............
6 hours and 51 minutes later and I had finished the cycle and was changing into my run gear. I took a little longer with this transition, about 12 minutes, but why rush? I had about 7 hours before the final cut-off so I stretched, had a drink, ate some potato crisps, went to the toilet.
to be continued..........
Hot, hot, hot
Today's calendar entry: "Dermatologists have found that applying chocolate topically renews and moisturises the skin."
It was hot yesterday afternoon, running in the 5km at Stromlo. The facility is great but it lacks shade at the moment. The grass track is excellent to run on, and there are undulations as it meanders around for 2.5km. This meant we were running 2 laps. I ran a warm up lap with Ewen and Jeni to familiarise myself with the course and even then I was feeling hot. Finally it was time to start and I promised myself that I would run the first lap comfortably – no silly business!
The first lap wasn’t too bad – chatted a while with Chris P, Kerrie B flew past, Susan Hobson and Sarah Fien were just ahead. The second lap was hard and getting harder – it seemed hillier the second time around. And hot – when there was no breeze, the sun was just beating down. I have never been so happy to finish. Water tasted wonderful! The shade was beautiful! I came in 60th overall, in a field of 105; my time was 23.14min. Happy!
This morning I ran 12km, my usual route behind Hawker. I was tired and it all seemed much hillier than I remembered it. It was warm for 6am – about 19*c. I also took water with me which I don’t usually do for the shorter morning runs but I was still feeling a little dehydrated from yesterday’s run.
I also had a win this morning – a pair of pants that I haven’t been able to fit into properly since last summer, now fit me. Yay! There is something to be said for marathon training!
It was hot yesterday afternoon, running in the 5km at Stromlo. The facility is great but it lacks shade at the moment. The grass track is excellent to run on, and there are undulations as it meanders around for 2.5km. This meant we were running 2 laps. I ran a warm up lap with Ewen and Jeni to familiarise myself with the course and even then I was feeling hot. Finally it was time to start and I promised myself that I would run the first lap comfortably – no silly business!
The first lap wasn’t too bad – chatted a while with Chris P, Kerrie B flew past, Susan Hobson and Sarah Fien were just ahead. The second lap was hard and getting harder – it seemed hillier the second time around. And hot – when there was no breeze, the sun was just beating down. I have never been so happy to finish. Water tasted wonderful! The shade was beautiful! I came in 60th overall, in a field of 105; my time was 23.14min. Happy!
This morning I ran 12km, my usual route behind Hawker. I was tired and it all seemed much hillier than I remembered it. It was warm for 6am – about 19*c. I also took water with me which I don’t usually do for the shorter morning runs but I was still feeling a little dehydrated from yesterday’s run.
I also had a win this morning – a pair of pants that I haven’t been able to fit into properly since last summer, now fit me. Yay! There is something to be said for marathon training!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
The things you see.......
.....when you go for a long run! I wish I had a camera! I was probably about 16km into my long run (almost halfway) when I came across an ironing board, set up, with clothes hanging off it. To put it in context, I saw this ironing board just as I left the O’Connor entrance to Black Mountain nature park so I was still in the bush. I had to look twice just to be sure I wasn’t hallucinating! I’m assuming it has been set up by some person who has been collecting lost clothing items from the nature park and this was quite a novel way of displaying them in hope that their owners would reclaim them.
Anyway back to the long run – last Saturday morning. It was basically the same as the long run the week before only a little longer. I ran a total of 34km from home to Black Mt Nature Park and back again. Probably the only thing I did differently was to run the (signposted) Little Black Mt circuit which added on a couple of kms. It was also a lot warmer with sunny blue skies. However I did notice that a few weeks ago I would’ve struggled with this one, especially over the latter stages, whereas on Saturday, while I felt tired, certainly ran it a lot better. So I am improving - 34km in 3hr 27min.
The hard thing was backing up with a 6km race the following morning. It was the monthly Veteran’s run handicap, at Campbell Park. I felt tired and sluggish initially and it was really only from the turnaround point that I felt that I could make it home in a respectable time, and not die on the way! Again, it was sunny and hot. I started in group 36 (still!) and finished 92nd in a field of 116 – so not last thankfully (though for a while I thought that was to be the case!). My time was 28.52min.
Monday was a rest day and this morning I was up bright and early (ok, well maybe just early!) and off to the gym, the first time for 5 weeks. So it was light weights and high reps so I can run this afternoon in the 5km race at Stromlo Forest Park, part of the Cross Country Summer series. Thing is, it’s meant to be 34*c today and it probably won’t have cooled down a lot by 6pm. And there’s no shade on the grass track. It’s going to be hot.
Anyway back to the long run – last Saturday morning. It was basically the same as the long run the week before only a little longer. I ran a total of 34km from home to Black Mt Nature Park and back again. Probably the only thing I did differently was to run the (signposted) Little Black Mt circuit which added on a couple of kms. It was also a lot warmer with sunny blue skies. However I did notice that a few weeks ago I would’ve struggled with this one, especially over the latter stages, whereas on Saturday, while I felt tired, certainly ran it a lot better. So I am improving - 34km in 3hr 27min.
The hard thing was backing up with a 6km race the following morning. It was the monthly Veteran’s run handicap, at Campbell Park. I felt tired and sluggish initially and it was really only from the turnaround point that I felt that I could make it home in a respectable time, and not die on the way! Again, it was sunny and hot. I started in group 36 (still!) and finished 92nd in a field of 116 – so not last thankfully (though for a while I thought that was to be the case!). My time was 28.52min.
Monday was a rest day and this morning I was up bright and early (ok, well maybe just early!) and off to the gym, the first time for 5 weeks. So it was light weights and high reps so I can run this afternoon in the 5km race at Stromlo Forest Park, part of the Cross Country Summer series. Thing is, it’s meant to be 34*c today and it probably won’t have cooled down a lot by 6pm. And there’s no shade on the grass track. It’s going to be hot.
Part 2 - 3.8km swim
My plan for the Ironman was not to race it, the distances are just too huge for me to even contemplate racing, but to make the cut-offs and do it comfortably, if that's possible. There's a 2 hour cut-off for the swim, 10 hour cut-off from the start of the swim for the bike and an overall cut-off of 15 and 1/2 hours for the finish. I thought I could probably finish in 14 to 14 and 1/2 hours.
Back to Sunday, April 4 2004, transition area at Forster Keys - the start of my first Ironman triathlon. My husband Steve had found my goggles - in the boot of our car. They had fallen out when I had pulled my wetsuit out of my gear bag. Crisis over I could now concentrate on the 3.8km swim ahead of me - in the lake in front of me - with 1500 other competitors. I had seen video footage of the swim start and for a very average swimmer it doesn't inspire confidence, particularly when one is not wearing a wetsuit. While during the cycle and run everyone supports each other, in the swim it is usually everyone for themselves. My plan, if you could call it one (survival was probably a more apt description) was to stay out of everyone's way and if that meant swimming way out on the fringes adding an extra kilometre, then so be it. There were five large groups of coloured caps in the lake - you had to give an estimated swim time on the entry form and at the time I thought 1 hour 20 minutes sounded quite reasonable..........in a wetsuit.
Now I was thinking one and a half hours might actually be more realistic. My estimated time had me in a yellow cap and we were the last group. As far as I could see ahead of me in the water were people. Relax, I kept telling myself, just treat it as a training swim. Before I knew it we had started and I didn't have time to think about anything but avoiding arms, bodies, legs. There were times when I was swimming along by myself and thinking that it wasn't so bad and then there were other times when it felt as though fifty people were trying to swim over me. Relax, I kept telling myself, take it easy, breathe, find an empty space, avoid that person, breathe.......... There was only the one time when someone either kicked or hit my foot, I'm not sure what happened but oh did it hurt. I had to keep wiggling my toes to reassure myself nothing was broken.
I could hear the helicopter above me, could smell and taste the diesel fumes from jetskis and boats which were nearby, could vaguely hear the announcer on the loudspeaker when I swam past the crowds. The last 400m back into shore was probably the roughest part of the swim as people sensed they were almost finished and pulled out all stops to get there - there were arms flying and legs kicking everywhere. I had done it - I had swum 3.8km without a wetsuit and emerged unscathed from the experience in 1 hour 23 minutes.
Then I was in the tent changing into my cycling gear. A volunteer filled my back pockets with fruit bars, gels, and fruit sticks. I had earlier that morning packed a couple of sandwiches into the bento box on my bike. Shoes on, sunnies on, helmet on and done up and I was out the door heading for my bike.......stop..... have a drink, get my bearings, find my bike. Team Cathy supporters decked out in bright yellow t-shirts and caps ensured that everyone knew I was on my way!
...to be continued!
Back to Sunday, April 4 2004, transition area at Forster Keys - the start of my first Ironman triathlon. My husband Steve had found my goggles - in the boot of our car. They had fallen out when I had pulled my wetsuit out of my gear bag. Crisis over I could now concentrate on the 3.8km swim ahead of me - in the lake in front of me - with 1500 other competitors. I had seen video footage of the swim start and for a very average swimmer it doesn't inspire confidence, particularly when one is not wearing a wetsuit. While during the cycle and run everyone supports each other, in the swim it is usually everyone for themselves. My plan, if you could call it one (survival was probably a more apt description) was to stay out of everyone's way and if that meant swimming way out on the fringes adding an extra kilometre, then so be it. There were five large groups of coloured caps in the lake - you had to give an estimated swim time on the entry form and at the time I thought 1 hour 20 minutes sounded quite reasonable..........in a wetsuit.
Now I was thinking one and a half hours might actually be more realistic. My estimated time had me in a yellow cap and we were the last group. As far as I could see ahead of me in the water were people. Relax, I kept telling myself, just treat it as a training swim. Before I knew it we had started and I didn't have time to think about anything but avoiding arms, bodies, legs. There were times when I was swimming along by myself and thinking that it wasn't so bad and then there were other times when it felt as though fifty people were trying to swim over me. Relax, I kept telling myself, take it easy, breathe, find an empty space, avoid that person, breathe.......... There was only the one time when someone either kicked or hit my foot, I'm not sure what happened but oh did it hurt. I had to keep wiggling my toes to reassure myself nothing was broken.
I could hear the helicopter above me, could smell and taste the diesel fumes from jetskis and boats which were nearby, could vaguely hear the announcer on the loudspeaker when I swam past the crowds. The last 400m back into shore was probably the roughest part of the swim as people sensed they were almost finished and pulled out all stops to get there - there were arms flying and legs kicking everywhere. I had done it - I had swum 3.8km without a wetsuit and emerged unscathed from the experience in 1 hour 23 minutes.
Then I was in the tent changing into my cycling gear. A volunteer filled my back pockets with fruit bars, gels, and fruit sticks. I had earlier that morning packed a couple of sandwiches into the bento box on my bike. Shoes on, sunnies on, helmet on and done up and I was out the door heading for my bike.......stop..... have a drink, get my bearings, find my bike. Team Cathy supporters decked out in bright yellow t-shirts and caps ensured that everyone knew I was on my way!
...to be continued!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Motivational Magic
Going through some documents yesterday I came across this one, which I had written not long after completing the Ironman at Forster back in 2004. As I read it I could feel the hairs rising on the back of my neck; it was an amazing achievement. If ever I need a motivational boost then all I need do is read this again. It will be in instalments because it is quite long. Here is the first instalment of an amazing adventure..........
Ironman Australian Triathlon, April 4 2004
It is 5.40am Sunday 4 April 2004 and I am madly searching through my fairly empty gear bag for swimming goggles which are not there, trying not to feel sick. I'm at the 19th Ironman Australian triathlon at Forster-Tuncurry, 35 minutes before the swim start and I can't find my goggles. Not only that but for the first time ever in the history of the Australian Ironman it was going to be a non-wetsuit swim, due to the water temperature. Why, why, did it have to be this year?!
Rewind to Sunday April 6 2003 - Kerry O'Neill and I are in Forster to watch our first Ironman and to support a couple of Kerry's friends from Alice Springs who were doing the event. "You'll be doing it next year," friends warned me when I told them I was going to watch the Ironman, "You won't be able to help yourself!" Don't be silly, I told them - who would be mad enough to swim 3.8km, cycle 180.2km and then run a marathon after that? Certainly not me! The sheer size of the event amazed us, the thousands of supporters, the 1500 or so competitors, the accompanying infrastructure - no other triathlon I've attended comes even close to the size and atmosphere of the Ironman. And then there's the finish - it feels and looks like everyone in Forster is down at the finish shute, cheering people on, whether they come in 1st, 10th, 1230th, or last. In fact it is the only event I know where everyone stays to the very end - its one big party! It was at this point that a little thought started niggling away - some of those people doing this event looked very normal and if they can do it, then well maybe so can I. Uh oh……..that finish has sucked me in - I wanted to do an Ironman!!!!!!
And what a year its been since then - cycling in below zero temperatures during Winter; a very memorable ride to Murrumbateman by myself in sleet and strong winds and being attacked in the face by a vicious magpie on the return trip; all the food that I was able to eat and not put on weight! (the Tim Tam training diet); the half ironman in Forster in November last year - during the run wondering why the hell I was doing this; hearing my name in the rolldown process after the Half Ironman when I was offered a spot at the Ironman; all those laps in the pool, all those kms on that bike seat; those 'lovely' bike/run sessions on a Wednesday (130km cycle followed by a 20km run); those days when I wondered why the hell I was doing this - those thoughts happened more frequently early this year; the bombshell dropped at the briefing the day before the Ironman - no wetsuits allowed, the first time in 19 years; and finally the realisation about 35mins before the race start that my goggles were not in my bag!
To be continued.......
Ironman Australian Triathlon, April 4 2004
It is 5.40am Sunday 4 April 2004 and I am madly searching through my fairly empty gear bag for swimming goggles which are not there, trying not to feel sick. I'm at the 19th Ironman Australian triathlon at Forster-Tuncurry, 35 minutes before the swim start and I can't find my goggles. Not only that but for the first time ever in the history of the Australian Ironman it was going to be a non-wetsuit swim, due to the water temperature. Why, why, did it have to be this year?!
Rewind to Sunday April 6 2003 - Kerry O'Neill and I are in Forster to watch our first Ironman and to support a couple of Kerry's friends from Alice Springs who were doing the event. "You'll be doing it next year," friends warned me when I told them I was going to watch the Ironman, "You won't be able to help yourself!" Don't be silly, I told them - who would be mad enough to swim 3.8km, cycle 180.2km and then run a marathon after that? Certainly not me! The sheer size of the event amazed us, the thousands of supporters, the 1500 or so competitors, the accompanying infrastructure - no other triathlon I've attended comes even close to the size and atmosphere of the Ironman. And then there's the finish - it feels and looks like everyone in Forster is down at the finish shute, cheering people on, whether they come in 1st, 10th, 1230th, or last. In fact it is the only event I know where everyone stays to the very end - its one big party! It was at this point that a little thought started niggling away - some of those people doing this event looked very normal and if they can do it, then well maybe so can I. Uh oh……..that finish has sucked me in - I wanted to do an Ironman!!!!!!
And what a year its been since then - cycling in below zero temperatures during Winter; a very memorable ride to Murrumbateman by myself in sleet and strong winds and being attacked in the face by a vicious magpie on the return trip; all the food that I was able to eat and not put on weight! (the Tim Tam training diet); the half ironman in Forster in November last year - during the run wondering why the hell I was doing this; hearing my name in the rolldown process after the Half Ironman when I was offered a spot at the Ironman; all those laps in the pool, all those kms on that bike seat; those 'lovely' bike/run sessions on a Wednesday (130km cycle followed by a 20km run); those days when I wondered why the hell I was doing this - those thoughts happened more frequently early this year; the bombshell dropped at the briefing the day before the Ironman - no wetsuits allowed, the first time in 19 years; and finally the realisation about 35mins before the race start that my goggles were not in my bag!
To be continued.......
Icky Thump
Today’s calendar entry: “Men, coffee, and chocolate are all better rich - Anon”
Today’s title sort of sounds like my running sometimes – ‘icky’ describing how I feel; ‘thump’ describing my running style. But actually it’s one of my favourite running songs at the moment by the White Stripes. The lyrics are kind of interesting though. Here’s a sample:
“iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeeeee
Icky thump
Who’da thunk
Sittin drunk on a wagon to Mexico?
Aaah well
What a chump
Well my head got a bump
When I hit it on the radio
Redhead senorita
Looking dead
Came and said
“Need a bed?”
En Espanol
I said
“Gimme a drink of water
I’m gonna ‘sing around the collar’
And I don’t need a microphone.”
Trust me, it sounds better than it reads! And it was songs like this that kept me going yesterday afternoon as I ran 18km, from home down to Lake Ginninderra, around the the peninsula and then back home again. The first 7km of the run didn’t bode well: I was averaging about 5.40min/km, my legs felt leaden, I felt tired, tummy felt blah, and I asked myself why do I do this? Not the running, but the time of day I sometimes choose to run. I am definitely not an afternoon runner – it sucks.
Anyway things improved after 7km and I enjoyed the rest of the run home. And my times had improved – I averaged 5.25min/km for the run so the second half was much, much better.
Thursday
I ran a slow 8km this morning before meeting Strewth and Mr B for breakfast at Red Belly Black Café. They make the best muesli with natural yoghurt, topped with marinated apricots – it’s delicious.
Today’s title sort of sounds like my running sometimes – ‘icky’ describing how I feel; ‘thump’ describing my running style. But actually it’s one of my favourite running songs at the moment by the White Stripes. The lyrics are kind of interesting though. Here’s a sample:
“iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeeeee
Icky thump
Who’da thunk
Sittin drunk on a wagon to Mexico?
Aaah well
What a chump
Well my head got a bump
When I hit it on the radio
Redhead senorita
Looking dead
Came and said
“Need a bed?”
En Espanol
I said
“Gimme a drink of water
I’m gonna ‘sing around the collar’
And I don’t need a microphone.”
Trust me, it sounds better than it reads! And it was songs like this that kept me going yesterday afternoon as I ran 18km, from home down to Lake Ginninderra, around the the peninsula and then back home again. The first 7km of the run didn’t bode well: I was averaging about 5.40min/km, my legs felt leaden, I felt tired, tummy felt blah, and I asked myself why do I do this? Not the running, but the time of day I sometimes choose to run. I am definitely not an afternoon runner – it sucks.
Anyway things improved after 7km and I enjoyed the rest of the run home. And my times had improved – I averaged 5.25min/km for the run so the second half was much, much better.
Thursday
I ran a slow 8km this morning before meeting Strewth and Mr B for breakfast at Red Belly Black Café. They make the best muesli with natural yoghurt, topped with marinated apricots – it’s delicious.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
The Bead Diet
Today’s calendar entry: “The biggest mistake one can often make in life, is to be constantly fearing they will make one – E.S.F”
No run this morning. After being woken up by the same way-too-cheerful DJ (I really must change radio stations), I had my coffee and considered my options. Thing was, I wasn’t inspired to run this morning. Maybe the thought of running 18km before breakfast dampened my enthusiasm. Maybe I was tired. Maybe I was just being lazy and the thought of lying in bed for another hour or so had more appeal. So I made a deal with myself. Lie in this morning and then run 18km after work. Easy. Now to live up to my side of the bargain this afternoon.......
Surf the web and sometimes you find the strangest things. I’m not kidding – below is something I found on the ninemsn webpage! And you can even buy the bracelets!
“Hottest diet and fitness trends for 2008
What are the hot new trends for 2008? Get fit and fab with the latest and hottest celeb fitness crazes — quick, before your friends find out [!! – my exclamation mark]
Bead diet
What is it? A calorie-counting plan that uses a beaded bracelet to help you diet. Each bead equals 100 calories, so if you want to eat 12,000 calories per day, slide 12 beads onto one string of the bracelet. Then when you eat 100 calories, slide a bead onto the other string.
What can I eat? Anything! As long as you know the calorie content.
How much weight will I lose? It depends, but if you stick to 1300 cals a day, you could lose six kilos in six weeks.
Why is it hot right now? Delta Goodrem is rumoured to be a fan and actress Kate Beckinsale makes her own diet bracelets for friends. Forget those red Kabbalah bracelets, you'll be seeing Hollywood's elite wearing diet beads in 2008.
How can I do it? Buy a bracelet at www.ilovethiscolor.com/dietbracelets or make one. Take a piece of wool long enough to wrap around your wrist twice and then thread enough beads onto one strand of the wool. When you've eaten, just slide the bead to the other strand.”
I mean, the fact that both Delta and Kate are fans of this diet makes it so hot now, and gosh, Kate even makes her own diet bracelets for friends, it must be good, right?! Sheeeesh! Pass the Magnum Minis please.
No run this morning. After being woken up by the same way-too-cheerful DJ (I really must change radio stations), I had my coffee and considered my options. Thing was, I wasn’t inspired to run this morning. Maybe the thought of running 18km before breakfast dampened my enthusiasm. Maybe I was tired. Maybe I was just being lazy and the thought of lying in bed for another hour or so had more appeal. So I made a deal with myself. Lie in this morning and then run 18km after work. Easy. Now to live up to my side of the bargain this afternoon.......
Surf the web and sometimes you find the strangest things. I’m not kidding – below is something I found on the ninemsn webpage! And you can even buy the bracelets!
“Hottest diet and fitness trends for 2008
What are the hot new trends for 2008? Get fit and fab with the latest and hottest celeb fitness crazes — quick, before your friends find out [!! – my exclamation mark]
Bead diet
What is it? A calorie-counting plan that uses a beaded bracelet to help you diet. Each bead equals 100 calories, so if you want to eat 12,000 calories per day, slide 12 beads onto one string of the bracelet. Then when you eat 100 calories, slide a bead onto the other string.
What can I eat? Anything! As long as you know the calorie content.
How much weight will I lose? It depends, but if you stick to 1300 cals a day, you could lose six kilos in six weeks.
Why is it hot right now? Delta Goodrem is rumoured to be a fan and actress Kate Beckinsale makes her own diet bracelets for friends. Forget those red Kabbalah bracelets, you'll be seeing Hollywood's elite wearing diet beads in 2008.
How can I do it? Buy a bracelet at www.ilovethiscolor.com/dietbracelets or make one. Take a piece of wool long enough to wrap around your wrist twice and then thread enough beads onto one strand of the wool. When you've eaten, just slide the bead to the other strand.”
I mean, the fact that both Delta and Kate are fans of this diet makes it so hot now, and gosh, Kate even makes her own diet bracelets for friends, it must be good, right?! Sheeeesh! Pass the Magnum Minis please.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Tuesday thoughts
Today’s calendar entry: “Chocolate is, let’s face it, far more reliable than a man – Miranda Ingram.”
Have you noticed its getting darker in the mornings these days? I’m talking 5.30ish here. It was also considerably cooler this morning – 11*c proclaimed the ultra cheery radio voice – so cheery I felt half inclined to throw my clock radio across the room. Then I had my coffee and the day suddenly seemed rosy! Ok I exaggerate a little – I thought I could at least get up and run 10km followed by 6 x 100m strides on the oval. All this before breakfast too.
Which. Is. What. I. Did.
Got up……dressed……and ran…..10km in 49.28min. This was followed by 6 x 100m strides and then I was heading home for rolled oats with banana and sugar-free maple syrup. Yummo! I do love early mornings really, its just that getting out the door sometimes is the hardest part.
A comment was made on yesterday’s entry that it looked like I had made a massive jump in distance for my long runs. Not so, not so. I have been following a training program for a little while now, and the week before last my long run was 26km, previously 24km, 20k, etc. This coming Saturday I will run 34km and then for the following week (my easy week) I cut back to 20km. Likewise for my mid-week medium long run. This started at 10km, then 12km, 14km, 16km last week and 18km tomorrow. Next week it will be about 10km I think. Ok, so I suck at 10,000m on the track but out on the trails, on my own, going slowly – anything is achievable!
Have you noticed its getting darker in the mornings these days? I’m talking 5.30ish here. It was also considerably cooler this morning – 11*c proclaimed the ultra cheery radio voice – so cheery I felt half inclined to throw my clock radio across the room. Then I had my coffee and the day suddenly seemed rosy! Ok I exaggerate a little – I thought I could at least get up and run 10km followed by 6 x 100m strides on the oval. All this before breakfast too.
Which. Is. What. I. Did.
Got up……dressed……and ran…..10km in 49.28min. This was followed by 6 x 100m strides and then I was heading home for rolled oats with banana and sugar-free maple syrup. Yummo! I do love early mornings really, its just that getting out the door sometimes is the hardest part.
A comment was made on yesterday’s entry that it looked like I had made a massive jump in distance for my long runs. Not so, not so. I have been following a training program for a little while now, and the week before last my long run was 26km, previously 24km, 20k, etc. This coming Saturday I will run 34km and then for the following week (my easy week) I cut back to 20km. Likewise for my mid-week medium long run. This started at 10km, then 12km, 14km, 16km last week and 18km tomorrow. Next week it will be about 10km I think. Ok, so I suck at 10,000m on the track but out on the trails, on my own, going slowly – anything is achievable!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Ups and downs and round and round......
......which basically sums up my long run yesterday morning. It was initially planned for Saturday morning but when I got up, nice and early, it was raining and I had no plans of starting a 30km run in the rain. So I went back to bed and later got up and ran 8km nice and easy….in the rain (my planned Sunday run).
Anyway I was up again nice and early on a Sunday (which is really unforgivable but like I said I didn’t have a choice) and set off running off-road behind the houses in Hawker – the suburb up the hill from ours. The track was slippery but surprisingly I did manage to stay upright though there were a couple of close calls! Then I diverted into the Pinnacle Nature Park for a little bit (to avoid a really steep hill though I still run uphill but its more gradual) before heading out of the park and towards Mt Painter nature park (behind Macquarie). Now here there is a steep hill but I haven’t managed to find a way around it so up I go – baby steps, until I reach the top and head off down the other side. For a little way it’s downhill though I have to watch my step because it is rocky in parts and there is the occasional exposed tree root to trip unsuspecting people.
Then it’s back uphill at the back of Cook briefly again when I cross the cycle path, before heading down another rocky path, back onto the cycle path briefly and then make my way through the gate into Aranda Nature Park. I was so busy concentrating on where I was going I didn’t see the large kangaroo standing in the middle of the trail until I was almost in front of it. I’m not sure who got the biggest fright – him/her or me! Then I noticed the paddock – instead of sheep it was full of kangaroos.
After following the trail a bit I came to the new underpass which took me into Black Mountain Nature Park and for a while the trail remains fairly flat, though again there were puddles and muddy patches. Now it was time to turn right and head upwards, as though I was heading to the top of Black Mt, which I wasn’t, but it still felt steepish. Finally I was at the top of the path and turn left to run downhill before turning right and running up another hill! (There’s a theme here!) I followed the trail around past the electrical sub-station, or whatever it is, and came out onto a road (I was probably near CSIRO). I followed this road for a little bit before turning back into the nature park and followed a very undulating trail, following power lines. Up until now the weather had been muggy, it was overcast and foggy in parts, but now it was starting to drizzle very lightly. I had visions of being drenched for the run home because I was at the farthest point of the run –
15km. However the rain was very very light and then
disappeared.
So, all the downhills and uphills I had run on the way out on this run, now became the uphills and downhills on the way home – challenging at times. However I felt comfortable for the entire distance which is great because my last couple of long runs have been very ordinary to say the least. The weather may have had something to do with it because the other runs have been done when it has been very sunny and hot – not my idea of fun or an enjoyable run. And then the previous week’s long run was affected by consuming some dodgy prawn rice paper rolls for tea the night before.
I had completed just over 30km in 3hrs – very happy with it. And it’s a great run too, mostly off-road. Okay, maybe less hills might make it better........!
Anyway I was up again nice and early on a Sunday (which is really unforgivable but like I said I didn’t have a choice) and set off running off-road behind the houses in Hawker – the suburb up the hill from ours. The track was slippery but surprisingly I did manage to stay upright though there were a couple of close calls! Then I diverted into the Pinnacle Nature Park for a little bit (to avoid a really steep hill though I still run uphill but its more gradual) before heading out of the park and towards Mt Painter nature park (behind Macquarie). Now here there is a steep hill but I haven’t managed to find a way around it so up I go – baby steps, until I reach the top and head off down the other side. For a little way it’s downhill though I have to watch my step because it is rocky in parts and there is the occasional exposed tree root to trip unsuspecting people.
Then it’s back uphill at the back of Cook briefly again when I cross the cycle path, before heading down another rocky path, back onto the cycle path briefly and then make my way through the gate into Aranda Nature Park. I was so busy concentrating on where I was going I didn’t see the large kangaroo standing in the middle of the trail until I was almost in front of it. I’m not sure who got the biggest fright – him/her or me! Then I noticed the paddock – instead of sheep it was full of kangaroos.
After following the trail a bit I came to the new underpass which took me into Black Mountain Nature Park and for a while the trail remains fairly flat, though again there were puddles and muddy patches. Now it was time to turn right and head upwards, as though I was heading to the top of Black Mt, which I wasn’t, but it still felt steepish. Finally I was at the top of the path and turn left to run downhill before turning right and running up another hill! (There’s a theme here!) I followed the trail around past the electrical sub-station, or whatever it is, and came out onto a road (I was probably near CSIRO). I followed this road for a little bit before turning back into the nature park and followed a very undulating trail, following power lines. Up until now the weather had been muggy, it was overcast and foggy in parts, but now it was starting to drizzle very lightly. I had visions of being drenched for the run home because I was at the farthest point of the run –
15km. However the rain was very very light and then
disappeared.
So, all the downhills and uphills I had run on the way out on this run, now became the uphills and downhills on the way home – challenging at times. However I felt comfortable for the entire distance which is great because my last couple of long runs have been very ordinary to say the least. The weather may have had something to do with it because the other runs have been done when it has been very sunny and hot – not my idea of fun or an enjoyable run. And then the previous week’s long run was affected by consuming some dodgy prawn rice paper rolls for tea the night before.
I had completed just over 30km in 3hrs – very happy with it. And it’s a great run too, mostly off-road. Okay, maybe less hills might make it better........!
Monday, January 14, 2008
dnf.......
Oh dear - first event of 2008 and my first since the Canberra marathon last year and I didn't finish. I had entered the 10,000m at the AIS track last Thursday evening. We had got back from the coast that afternoon, it was hot, and I was in two minds about whether to do it. I'd also had a fall a couple of days before and this would be my first run since then. But I had told Ewen I would do it so I couldn't wimp out!
I started well - snuck in behind Ewen and thought I could manage to stay with him for the distance. Bad move - I should never run someone else's race - it never works for me. Normally I start slowly and gradually get faster the longer I go. This time we set off at a cracking pace which was fine for about 5,000m but then I started feeling 'not quite right'. By 6,000m I was contemplating pulling out but as I'd never pulled out before I didn't really want to start now so talked myself into slowing down and taking it easy. However by 7,000m I knew I couldn't do another 3,000m and so I made the decision to stop...........
First....and hopefully.....the only.......DNF for 2008.
I started well - snuck in behind Ewen and thought I could manage to stay with him for the distance. Bad move - I should never run someone else's race - it never works for me. Normally I start slowly and gradually get faster the longer I go. This time we set off at a cracking pace which was fine for about 5,000m but then I started feeling 'not quite right'. By 6,000m I was contemplating pulling out but as I'd never pulled out before I didn't really want to start now so talked myself into slowing down and taking it easy. However by 7,000m I knew I couldn't do another 3,000m and so I made the decision to stop...........
First....and hopefully.....the only.......DNF for 2008.
What's with the teddy bears?
Something I had never noticed before on the way down to Bateman's Bay - the number of teddy bears, big and small, including one gorilla and one crazy frog, attached to trees between the outskirts of Queanbeyan and Bungendore. Some looked like they'd been there a while; others looked new. So what's the story with the teddy bears? Does anyone know?
I'm curious!
I'm curious!
Ouch!
The coast was great; the fall I had before we left for the coast wasn't great! The first fall for 2008 - on the gravel, skin off the right palm, arm and knee. Lots of blood and gore as I ran home - lots of funny looks as blood splatter was going everywhere! Plus I was covered with dust down the front of my top.
The fall happened on the flat; I'd run up and down hills and over rocky tricky bits and then I fell on a flat stretch of path, on my way home. Mr CJ says I need to learn how to roll but as i retorted, I don't even know I'm going to fall over! It all happens so quickly - one minute I am upright running, the next minute I have face-planted the gravel!
So the right knee is bandaged again - this is becoming a January ritual!
The fall happened on the flat; I'd run up and down hills and over rocky tricky bits and then I fell on a flat stretch of path, on my way home. Mr CJ says I need to learn how to roll but as i retorted, I don't even know I'm going to fall over! It all happens so quickly - one minute I am upright running, the next minute I have face-planted the gravel!
So the right knee is bandaged again - this is becoming a January ritual!
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Birdlife
Even though it was my easy week I still had a long run to do on Saturday - though it was 18km as opposed to 28m, and for that I was very grateful. I had decided to start a little later in the morning and that was a bad mistake - even though it was cloudy, when the sun did make an appearance it was very hot. And when I was runni...er...struggling up the hills it was no fun at all.
Even so, the long run out to Black Mt nature park and back is one of my favourite runs - despite the hills and the uphill return trip! There is always a lot of birdlife to distract me while I'm running. We are so lucky - there is such diversity of birdlife here in Australia, and the colors are fantastic. Magpies, cockatoos, galahs, rosellas, blue wrens......
The run itself was uneventful though I had miscalculated the distance and what was meant to be a 16km run turned out to be 18km, which doesn't seem like a lot of difference but when its hot and hilly, well lets just say I was very grateful to finish. And the banana smoothie I had afterwards was just the best!
We're off to Batemen's Bay for a couple of days of R&R this week - hopefully the weather will be nice. Certainly beats going to SE Qld at the moment anyway!
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Gifts from Boston
Received a lovely surprise in the mail today - a small box of gifts from Boston, USA. What with Christmas and the holidays I had completely forgotten I had taken part in the International City Swap, hosted by Shelley.
Basically what we do is we swap cities/towns. You put together a package that you think best represents the place where you live, and what you love about it. Or, if you think where you live is ridiculous, you can put in the silliest things you can find. It’s up to your own creativity. Last year there were packages circulating: from Detroit to Alaska, NYC to Rome, Jordan, NY to Turin, Italy, San Jose, CA to Australia, and Atlanta, Georgia to Rome.
I sent a package of Aussie stuff, including a packet of Tim Tams, to Alli in San Francisco and I received a package from Ulli in Boston. My goodies included a Boston 2008 calendar with various points of interest marked, such as where Ulli lives, and the park where she had a really bad date!; a very cute little red lobster fridge magnet (seems like they like their lobster in Boston); A Boston guide book, very necessary for any future trips there (well they do have a marathon!); a Red Sox cap (seems like lobster is not the only thing they are passionate about); a packet of Hershey's Kisses and a "Save the Earth. It's the only planet with chocolate" card. I love surprises!
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year!!!
We had a quiet new year's eve - watched tv for a bit then headed off to Civic to watch the midnight fireworks from our vantage point near the Acton Ferry terminal. No alcohol, no partying, very quiet.Today is a rest day from running so I enjoyed my sleep in this morning. In fact, I slept through my first coffee which was kindly brought to me while I was still sleeping. He didn't wake me!
I forgot to mention yesterday that while I was in Woolies I saw hot cross buns for sale - on 31 December! So expect to see easter eggs on the shelves shortly.
Monday, December 31, 2007
The last word......
....for 2007.
I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas, didn't eat too much, and scored a bargain or two in the post-Christmas sales (we did!)
The first week of my holidays are over, the Christmas drinks we went to about a week and a half ago were great, and it was great to catch up with iliketoast and ihatetoast the day after the night before!
The running is coming along nicely. I returned to one of my old runs last Saturday - the Black Mountain nature park run. Omg, I'd forgotten how hilly it is! I have lost all my hill fitness and am still experiencing sore quads from the downhills! I have an easy week this week.
But for now - its back to my book. I'm reading Lord of the Rings. It could take me a while!
Happy new year and here's to a great 2008!!!
I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas, didn't eat too much, and scored a bargain or two in the post-Christmas sales (we did!)
The first week of my holidays are over, the Christmas drinks we went to about a week and a half ago were great, and it was great to catch up with iliketoast and ihatetoast the day after the night before!
The running is coming along nicely. I returned to one of my old runs last Saturday - the Black Mountain nature park run. Omg, I'd forgotten how hilly it is! I have lost all my hill fitness and am still experiencing sore quads from the downhills! I have an easy week this week.
But for now - its back to my book. I'm reading Lord of the Rings. It could take me a while!
Happy new year and here's to a great 2008!!!
Friday, December 21, 2007
Last day at work......
.....for three weeks. Not that there's too many people here or a lot to do. After weeks of frantically typing up briefs, filling out costings templates, and the like, this week there's been........nothing. However there is still a couple of hours before I walk out of the office today so maybe I shouldn't have let that thought out!
Took my life into my own hands and headed off to the Plaza at lunchtime to search for 'the' present - hoping to get some inspiration. 'The' present is to be a surprise for Mr CJ but I have absolutely no bloody idea what to get him. He would have to be the hardest man in the world to buy for. No luck - I ended up buying Body Butter from the Body Shop for moi - I've almost run out. So I've got 3 days left in which I'm hoping inspiration will strike.
Running is going well. So much so that I forget that I ever had an injury that stopped me running for about 3 months. However I'm not pushing my luck - I'm still running between 8km and 10km but at least I'm consistent. Which is good because I'm surrounded by chocolate at the moment - chocolate santas at home, chocolate truffles at work, an amazing flourless chocolate cake made with Lindt Intense Orange chocolate that someone brought to morning tea yesterday (that was to die for....).
Tomorrow is my long run and I'm planning on running about 12km - 15 km. Then tomorrow night we're off to Christmas drinks at our friends' place - an annual event that's greatly anticipated and thoroughly enjoyed!
Have a great weekend!
Took my life into my own hands and headed off to the Plaza at lunchtime to search for 'the' present - hoping to get some inspiration. 'The' present is to be a surprise for Mr CJ but I have absolutely no bloody idea what to get him. He would have to be the hardest man in the world to buy for. No luck - I ended up buying Body Butter from the Body Shop for moi - I've almost run out. So I've got 3 days left in which I'm hoping inspiration will strike.
Running is going well. So much so that I forget that I ever had an injury that stopped me running for about 3 months. However I'm not pushing my luck - I'm still running between 8km and 10km but at least I'm consistent. Which is good because I'm surrounded by chocolate at the moment - chocolate santas at home, chocolate truffles at work, an amazing flourless chocolate cake made with Lindt Intense Orange chocolate that someone brought to morning tea yesterday (that was to die for....).
Tomorrow is my long run and I'm planning on running about 12km - 15 km. Then tomorrow night we're off to Christmas drinks at our friends' place - an annual event that's greatly anticipated and thoroughly enjoyed!
Have a great weekend!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Fingers crossed....
*whispering* I'm back running but I'm not trying to make too big a fuss about it....just in case.....you know..... I jinx myself. I've been steadily increasing my running over the past couple of weeks with no ill effects and I'm running 8km - 10km consistently......but no hills.....yet.
Hence the silence for the past few weeks (ok, month then) - that, and then post-election which meant lots of urgent briefings, costings, etc, etc...and then there's Christmas and yikes.....I'm way behind on everything! However I have one more week of work before going on holidays for 3 weeks....can't wait!
So, I'm back and my next event is........*drum roll* the 10,000m in January. Wish me luck.....I'm going to need it!
Hence the silence for the past few weeks (ok, month then) - that, and then post-election which meant lots of urgent briefings, costings, etc, etc...and then there's Christmas and yikes.....I'm way behind on everything! However I have one more week of work before going on holidays for 3 weeks....can't wait!
So, I'm back and my next event is........*drum roll* the 10,000m in January. Wish me luck.....I'm going to need it!
Monday, November 12, 2007
A reunion of sorts
This morning I did something that I haven't done for 15 months. And while doing it I realised why I hadn't done this for 15 months. Yep, I got on my bike - literally. The bike was dragged out of the shed yesterday and what a sorry sight it was - covered in dust and cobwebs, and with 2 flat tyres. However once I cleaned it up and pumped up the tyres, it looked much better. Then I had to go searching for my helmet, bike gloves and shoes - also covered in a layer of dust.
The reason for resurrecting my bike was because I need to do something a little more substantial than run/walk sessions that are over before I really get started. I need to get my teeth into something other than chocolate! And it was either cycling or swimming so guess what won out.....for now.
I organised all my gear last night before going to bed so I wouldn't be running around in a flap this morning trying to find things (I'd forgotten how many bits and pieces are required for cycling). I was in the right mind set for a cycle this morning before breakfast.
So why was I lying in bed this morning thinking up all the reasons why I didn't need to get out on my bike? Honestly the time I waste in these fruitless exercises! I did get out on my bike eventually and cycled for about 18km - not far but plenty enough for my first foray. I have to admit I had to focus on clipping and unclipping my shoes, try to remember how the bike computer worked, and changing gears. I think it was all coming together nicely by the time I finished!
So that was my first cycle in 15 months. It won't be that long before my next ride!
The reason for resurrecting my bike was because I need to do something a little more substantial than run/walk sessions that are over before I really get started. I need to get my teeth into something other than chocolate! And it was either cycling or swimming so guess what won out.....for now.
I organised all my gear last night before going to bed so I wouldn't be running around in a flap this morning trying to find things (I'd forgotten how many bits and pieces are required for cycling). I was in the right mind set for a cycle this morning before breakfast.
So why was I lying in bed this morning thinking up all the reasons why I didn't need to get out on my bike? Honestly the time I waste in these fruitless exercises! I did get out on my bike eventually and cycled for about 18km - not far but plenty enough for my first foray. I have to admit I had to focus on clipping and unclipping my shoes, try to remember how the bike computer worked, and changing gears. I think it was all coming together nicely by the time I finished!
So that was my first cycle in 15 months. It won't be that long before my next ride!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
A few of my favourite things
I have found pizza in Canberra that is the closest to the real Roman pizza - Pizza-Arte in Kingston. It operates out the back of a house - its a home-based business. Their motto is "life is too short for bad pizza" and I so agree. I had been grumbling a few weeks ago about the lack of decent woodfired thin crust pizzas in Canberra when an Italian friend of mine told me about Pizza-Arte. So Mr CJ and I made the trip across town last night to try the pizzas and we weren't disappointed. I had the patate pizza (potato and rosemary) and Mr CJ had the napolitana pizza. You have to ask specifically for the Italian-style thin crust. The best thing is they don't pile on the toppings so it just becomes gloop on top. Later last night a Domino's pizza ad came on TV and they were advertising the meatlovers pizza with ingredients galore and 'tons of cheese' - in other words, pizza gloop.
Another favourite place is Costa Noosa is, unfortunately, in Noosa!!! They make the best coffee.
As their website states:
"Costa Noosa Espresso is the coast's specialty roaster, catering for lovers of exceptional, fresh coffee.
At Costa Noosa Espresso, we take the best available 100% Arabica beans from the Americas, Asia and Australia and precisely roast and blend them to produce coffee with passion. We invite you to share that passion with us.
Call into our roastery and espresso bar in Duke Street, Sunshine Beach and experience a little Costa Noosa magic. For the true coffee aficionado, sitting in the roastery experiencing the sights, and the intensity of the taste and aroma as the finest primo quality beans are being roasted, creates a special magic all of its own."
The highlight of my week in Noosa was going across the road to Costa Noosa for my morning albinocino. Beam me up Scotty...and take me back there!
My current favourite chocolate!!!
"Traditionally the Maya Indians in southern Belize flavoured their cocoa with spices. We recapture this by blending rich, dark chocolate with a refreshing twist of orange that is perfectly balanced by the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Organic Cocoa Mass*, Organic Raw Cane Sugar, Organic Cocoa Butter*, Emulsifier: Soya Lecithin, Natural Fruit and Spice Extracts (0.1%), Organic Vanilla Extract. * = All the cocoa in this chocolate is Fairtrade. Cocoa represents 55% of the total product weight."
The long road back
Friday I was back at the physio's for more treatment. The good news is that since the cortisone injection seems to have done the trick *touch wood* I can increase the amount of running I can do to.......*wait for it*....2.30min for each interval, with a 3min walk after each one. Sigh......at this rate I might be ready for the 2009 Canberra marathon :-( If, after a week, everything is still hunky dory then I can decrease the walk intervals from 3min to 2min. Lucky I'm a patient person....NOT!
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Dust if You Must......
Dust if you must, but wouldn't it be better
To paint a picture, or write a letter,
Bake a cake, or plant a seed;
Ponder the difference between want and need?
Dust if you must, but there's not much time,
With rivers to swim, and mountains to climb;
Music to hear, and books to read;
Friends to cherish, and life to lead.
Dust if you must, but the world's out there
With the sun in your eyes, and the wind in your hair;
A flutter of snow, a shower of rain,
This day will not come around again.
Dust if you must, but bear in mind,
Old age will come and it's not kind.
And when you go (and go you must)
You, yourself, will make more dust.
(Author unknown)
To paint a picture, or write a letter,
Bake a cake, or plant a seed;
Ponder the difference between want and need?
Dust if you must, but there's not much time,
With rivers to swim, and mountains to climb;
Music to hear, and books to read;
Friends to cherish, and life to lead.
Dust if you must, but the world's out there
With the sun in your eyes, and the wind in your hair;
A flutter of snow, a shower of rain,
This day will not come around again.
Dust if you must, but bear in mind,
Old age will come and it's not kind.
And when you go (and go you must)
You, yourself, will make more dust.
(Author unknown)
TTOTM!
It was that time of the month again........KokoBlack time! This time I was having morning tea with some friends whom I hadn't seen for some time to exchange holiday stories and photos! I think I have been to Kokoblack three times since the end of September!!!!
As for the after effects of the cortisone injection - I had the injection last Tuesday afternoon, so Wednesday wasn't a lot of fun - in fact, it was very painful. The pain subsided about 4am Thursday morning and since then..........nothing! Now I won't get too excited just yet but *fingers crossed* I might have turned the corner. I have been for 2 short runs since the injection and there has been no soreness or achiness.
ACT has a public holiday on Tuesday (Melbourne Cup day) and so many of us, including moi, are taking Monday off as well - a 4 day long weekend. I haven't got anything special planned for the days off except study - I am currently studying a Certificate in Nutrition. This will be followed by a Cert 3 (Professional Fitness Instructor) and Cert 4 (Personal Trainer). Next year I have applied to do an Advanced Diploma In Naturopathy (part-time), specialising in nutrition. So life, no doubt, will become very hectic!
As for the after effects of the cortisone injection - I had the injection last Tuesday afternoon, so Wednesday wasn't a lot of fun - in fact, it was very painful. The pain subsided about 4am Thursday morning and since then..........nothing! Now I won't get too excited just yet but *fingers crossed* I might have turned the corner. I have been for 2 short runs since the injection and there has been no soreness or achiness.
ACT has a public holiday on Tuesday (Melbourne Cup day) and so many of us, including moi, are taking Monday off as well - a 4 day long weekend. I haven't got anything special planned for the days off except study - I am currently studying a Certificate in Nutrition. This will be followed by a Cert 3 (Professional Fitness Instructor) and Cert 4 (Personal Trainer). Next year I have applied to do an Advanced Diploma In Naturopathy (part-time), specialising in nutrition. So life, no doubt, will become very hectic!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
X marks the spot
Injury update:
It's been 72 days since the injury first reared its ugly head, up in Noosa (not that I'm counting!) In that time, I have had x-rays, a bone scan, and today it was a cortisone injection. The problem is the injury is not improving despite the very limited running I am doing - it still aches when I run, aches when I stop and aches in the middle of the night, or when I go down stairs, or just because it can. The periostitis is very localised - I can point to exactly where it is tender. For some reason, doctors and physios take great pleasure in applying some force to this particular spot and then asking, with a straight face, whether it hurts - one look at my face gives them the answer.
So the sports doc poked and prodded again today, muttering about how the symptoms still point to a stress fracture and debating whether I should have an MRI before the cortisone injection. However, we opted for the cortisone injection first, and then if it hasn't improved in about a week's time, I will have the MRI. This injury is going to send me broke!
Naturally I googled 'cortisone' before the visit to the doc today and came up with the following information:
How do cortisone injections work?
Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that occurs naturally in the body to controls and assists normal body functions. When therapists use cortisone to treat tendonitis, bursitis, and arthritis it acts as a potent local anti-inflammatory drug. Cortisone is useful in suppressing inflammation in the short term, and in the long term, dissolving scar tissue, stabilizing the body's defenses, speeding the healing process, and is very effective in causing certain cysts to disappear.
Cortisone is not directly a pain relieving medication, as it only treats the cause or site of inflammation. Your pain is decreased by a cortisone treatment because the inflammation is diminished and this is turn reduces the pain. By injecting the cortisone into a particular area of inflammation, very high concentrations of the medication can be given while keeping potential side-effects to a minimum.
What is cortisone?
Cortisone is a type of steroid that is produced naturally by a gland in your body called the adrenal gland. Cortisone is released from the adrenal gland when your body is under stress, and natural cortisone is released into the blood stream and is relatively short-acting. The absence of cortisone in the body is called Addison's Disease.
Injectible cortisone is synthetically produced but is a close derivative of your body's natural product. The most significant differences are that synthetic cortisone is not injected into the blood stream, but into a particular area of inflammation. Also, the synthetic cortisone is designed to act more potently and for a longer period of time (days instead of minutes).
Are there side effects to a cortisone injection?
Unfortunately yes. Probably the most common side-effect is a 'cortisone flare,' a condition where the injected cortisone crystallizes and can cause a brief period of pain worse than before the shot. This usually lasts a day or two and is best treated by icing the injected area.
Another common side-effect is whitening of the skin where the injection is given. This is only a concern in people with darker skin, and is not harmful, but patients should be aware of this.
Other side-effects of cortisone injections, although rare, can be quite serious. The most concerning is infection, especially if the injection is given into a joint. The best prevention is careful injection technique, with sterilization of the skin using iodine and/or alcohol.
Also, patients with diabetes may have a transient increase in their blood sugar which they should watch for closely. Because cortisone is a naturally occurring substance, true allergic responses to the injected substance do not occur. However, it is possible to be allergic to other aspects of the injection, most commonly the betadine many physicians use to sterilize the skin.
It's been 72 days since the injury first reared its ugly head, up in Noosa (not that I'm counting!) In that time, I have had x-rays, a bone scan, and today it was a cortisone injection. The problem is the injury is not improving despite the very limited running I am doing - it still aches when I run, aches when I stop and aches in the middle of the night, or when I go down stairs, or just because it can. The periostitis is very localised - I can point to exactly where it is tender. For some reason, doctors and physios take great pleasure in applying some force to this particular spot and then asking, with a straight face, whether it hurts - one look at my face gives them the answer.
So the sports doc poked and prodded again today, muttering about how the symptoms still point to a stress fracture and debating whether I should have an MRI before the cortisone injection. However, we opted for the cortisone injection first, and then if it hasn't improved in about a week's time, I will have the MRI. This injury is going to send me broke!
Naturally I googled 'cortisone' before the visit to the doc today and came up with the following information:
How do cortisone injections work?
Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that occurs naturally in the body to controls and assists normal body functions. When therapists use cortisone to treat tendonitis, bursitis, and arthritis it acts as a potent local anti-inflammatory drug. Cortisone is useful in suppressing inflammation in the short term, and in the long term, dissolving scar tissue, stabilizing the body's defenses, speeding the healing process, and is very effective in causing certain cysts to disappear.
Cortisone is not directly a pain relieving medication, as it only treats the cause or site of inflammation. Your pain is decreased by a cortisone treatment because the inflammation is diminished and this is turn reduces the pain. By injecting the cortisone into a particular area of inflammation, very high concentrations of the medication can be given while keeping potential side-effects to a minimum.
What is cortisone?
Cortisone is a type of steroid that is produced naturally by a gland in your body called the adrenal gland. Cortisone is released from the adrenal gland when your body is under stress, and natural cortisone is released into the blood stream and is relatively short-acting. The absence of cortisone in the body is called Addison's Disease.
Injectible cortisone is synthetically produced but is a close derivative of your body's natural product. The most significant differences are that synthetic cortisone is not injected into the blood stream, but into a particular area of inflammation. Also, the synthetic cortisone is designed to act more potently and for a longer period of time (days instead of minutes).
Are there side effects to a cortisone injection?
Unfortunately yes. Probably the most common side-effect is a 'cortisone flare,' a condition where the injected cortisone crystallizes and can cause a brief period of pain worse than before the shot. This usually lasts a day or two and is best treated by icing the injected area.
Another common side-effect is whitening of the skin where the injection is given. This is only a concern in people with darker skin, and is not harmful, but patients should be aware of this.
Other side-effects of cortisone injections, although rare, can be quite serious. The most concerning is infection, especially if the injection is given into a joint. The best prevention is careful injection technique, with sterilization of the skin using iodine and/or alcohol.
Also, patients with diabetes may have a transient increase in their blood sugar which they should watch for closely. Because cortisone is a naturally occurring substance, true allergic responses to the injected substance do not occur. However, it is possible to be allergic to other aspects of the injection, most commonly the betadine many physicians use to sterilize the skin.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Attitude
There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and noticed she had only three hairs on her head.
Well," she said, "I think I'll braid my hair today" So she did and she had a wonderful day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.
"H-M-M," she said, "I think I'll part my hair down the middle today" So she did and she had a grand day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head.
"Well," she said, "today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail." So she did and she had a fun, fun day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head.
"YEA!" she exclaimed, "I don't have to fix my hair today!"
Attitude is everything.
Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly.......
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.
Well," she said, "I think I'll braid my hair today" So she did and she had a wonderful day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.
"H-M-M," she said, "I think I'll part my hair down the middle today" So she did and she had a grand day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head.
"Well," she said, "today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail." So she did and she had a fun, fun day.
The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head.
"YEA!" she exclaimed, "I don't have to fix my hair today!"
Attitude is everything.
Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly.......
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Something’s gotta give
My energy levels haven’t improved.
I went to the gym this morning and while I worked my butt off on the weights I still felt as if I was wading through molasses.
The running is coming along slowly – too slowly for my liking but then I’m not known for my patience. As for the periostitis, there is still some tenderness in one particular area of my shin but I don’t think it warrants a cortisone injection. I see the physio again on Friday and a decision will be made then.
I pretty much flunked the calf flexibility test last week at the physio’s – you know, the one where you stand next to a wall then bend the knee, with the aim of touching the wall with said knee. With my left foot, the distance is about 4cm from the end of my toes to the wall. With my right foot it’s about 2cm.
Now, in case it’s not immediately obvious, I have very tight calves! And this has probably contributed to my injury. In fact, in all likelihood, it’s been the change in terrain since last November that has contributed to the problem as a lot of my running included steeper hills than usual. I have tended to run on the balls of my feet more than usual thus increasing the load on my calves, which over time have become tighter and tighter until *twang* something gave way ie an overuse injury.
I went to the gym this morning and while I worked my butt off on the weights I still felt as if I was wading through molasses.
The running is coming along slowly – too slowly for my liking but then I’m not known for my patience. As for the periostitis, there is still some tenderness in one particular area of my shin but I don’t think it warrants a cortisone injection. I see the physio again on Friday and a decision will be made then.
I pretty much flunked the calf flexibility test last week at the physio’s – you know, the one where you stand next to a wall then bend the knee, with the aim of touching the wall with said knee. With my left foot, the distance is about 4cm from the end of my toes to the wall. With my right foot it’s about 2cm.
Now, in case it’s not immediately obvious, I have very tight calves! And this has probably contributed to my injury. In fact, in all likelihood, it’s been the change in terrain since last November that has contributed to the problem as a lot of my running included steeper hills than usual. I have tended to run on the balls of my feet more than usual thus increasing the load on my calves, which over time have become tighter and tighter until *twang* something gave way ie an overuse injury.
Days like these…….
…..are better off spent staying in bed out of harms way!
That was my day yesterday.
I started the day with a ‘run’ of 90sec jog followed by 90sec walk then 3min jog followed by 3min walk and repeat this. I have to say it was the fugliest run I’ve done in a long time. It was like how I imagine running through molasses would be like – hard going to say the least. My energy levels have dipped below the empty mark and yet it can’t be my diet – I am fully loaded on slow carbs ie low GI carbs. And it’s not like I’m over training – 4 runs a week but it’s only a total of 9mins actual running time for each run. I go to the gym twice a week so I hardly qualify as a gym junkie. Hopefully this lack of energy will pass.
Ever heard of the person who sends out a joke email and accidentally includes the whole department in the email?
Trust me, it does happen and I am living proof of it.
Ok, so it wasn’t the entire department but it did go to everyone in one particular building belonging to our department. How did it happen? The person I was forwarding on some joke photos (not risque, thank heavens) has the same surname as the name of this particular building and I didn’t look when selecting the name from the address book – bad, bad move. Anyway to cut a long sad sorry tale short, the motto of this story is to always check the email address BEFORE sending the email (or just don’t send joke emails at all and I’m seriously considering that option!) I sat waiting with sinking heart for emails to come pouring back in but so far only 2. It’s so mortifying…… :-( I’m such a klutz at times.
Yesterday’s highlight (fortunately it wasn’t all lowlights) was attending a work presentation by Ian Kiernan (Cleanup Australia) – a very down-to-earth man who is passionate about the environment and can tell a good story or two. The theme of the talk was leadership and it was a very entertaining hour. The next talk will be given by Dr John Tickell (of the Great Australian Diet and Celebrity Overhaul fame) in November – I am looking forward to it.
That was my day yesterday.
I started the day with a ‘run’ of 90sec jog followed by 90sec walk then 3min jog followed by 3min walk and repeat this. I have to say it was the fugliest run I’ve done in a long time. It was like how I imagine running through molasses would be like – hard going to say the least. My energy levels have dipped below the empty mark and yet it can’t be my diet – I am fully loaded on slow carbs ie low GI carbs. And it’s not like I’m over training – 4 runs a week but it’s only a total of 9mins actual running time for each run. I go to the gym twice a week so I hardly qualify as a gym junkie. Hopefully this lack of energy will pass.
Ever heard of the person who sends out a joke email and accidentally includes the whole department in the email?
Trust me, it does happen and I am living proof of it.
Ok, so it wasn’t the entire department but it did go to everyone in one particular building belonging to our department. How did it happen? The person I was forwarding on some joke photos (not risque, thank heavens) has the same surname as the name of this particular building and I didn’t look when selecting the name from the address book – bad, bad move. Anyway to cut a long sad sorry tale short, the motto of this story is to always check the email address BEFORE sending the email (or just don’t send joke emails at all and I’m seriously considering that option!) I sat waiting with sinking heart for emails to come pouring back in but so far only 2. It’s so mortifying…… :-( I’m such a klutz at times.
Yesterday’s highlight (fortunately it wasn’t all lowlights) was attending a work presentation by Ian Kiernan (Cleanup Australia) – a very down-to-earth man who is passionate about the environment and can tell a good story or two. The theme of the talk was leadership and it was a very entertaining hour. The next talk will be given by Dr John Tickell (of the Great Australian Diet and Celebrity Overhaul fame) in November – I am looking forward to it.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Low GI Diet
Part 2 of Operation Marshmallow to Muscle:
"The Low GI Diet is the safe and healthy way to lose weight with smart carbs. The Australian authors of the bestselling series on the glycemic index, The New Glucose Revolution, explain how choosing low GI carbohydrates—the ones that produce only small fluctuations in your blood glucose levels—can help you feel fuller longer and increase your energy levels, making weight loss achievable and sustainable.
The Low GI Diet includes:
*a 12-week action plan based on smart carbs and smart moves—lose up to ten per cent of your current body weight
*the tools and tips you need to maintain weight loss for life
*delicious recipes, meal plans and a menu survival guide
*the GI tables—with the GI of all your favourite foods.
*Easy to follow, and based on making simple substitutions to the way you eat now, The Low GI Diet will change the way you eat for life."
Is it any coincidence that chocolate is low GI?!!!!! *just kidding - while it is low GI it is also high in saturated fat so all things in moderation!* :-)
Well, I'm almost at the end of the first week of 12 weeks and I have probably eaten more healthily than I have for quite a while. Its a food plan I can live with because it contains a lot of food I enjoy: fruit, vegetables, wholegrain cereals, etc. Portion size is probably my biggest trap and because I am not doing a great deal of running I need to scale down the amount I eat.
For each week there are goals: food goal, exercise goal, activitiy goal ie incidental activity, and Food for Thought.
So, for example, the food goal for the week:
Increase my awareness of what I eat and why (now that can be pretty scary!)
Exercise goal:
pretty much taken care of - I jog/walk 4 times a week and go to the gym twice a week
Food for thought: what is the GI of my diet?
In short, this is a meal plan that I can live with.
As it says in the book: "One of the loudest messages in this book - despite its title - is don't 'diet'.
Don't severely restrict food intake, don't skip breakfast, don't skip meals, don't follow fad diets - you are just asking for trouble. Instead, we want you to adopt simple lifestyle 'manoeuvres', only some of which are specific to food. The aim is to maximise your muscle mass (increase your engine size), minimise your body fat (decrease the cushioning ie the marshmallow) and keep you burning the optimal fuel mix for lifelong weight control (high octane energy with built-in engine 'protectants')."
I know, sounds pretty basic, but its amazing how complicated we can make things sometimes.
Dark chocolate acts as aspirin
Dark chocolate acts as aspirin – study
Cocoa contained in dark chocolate may function in the same way as aspirin in preventing heart attacks, according to a new US study.
Scientists at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine say that a few squares of dark chocolate each day can reduce the risk of heart attack by almost 50 per cent in some cases.
The researchers said platelets in the blood of dark chocolate eaters clotted more slowly, reducing platelet clumping in the blood. Platelet clumping can be fatal if a clot forms and blocks a blood vessel, causing a heart attack.
Given the high levels of saturated fat and sugar in chocolate, you can obtain the benefits of cocoa on a regular basis without the added kilojoules by having a hot chocolate or iced chocolate drink made from cocoa, with skim milk.
Source: Presentation to the American Heart Association’s annual Scientific Session, November 2006.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Operation Marshmallow to Muscle
This little project (Operation Marshmallow to Muscle) started when I went back to work on 5 September but it fell by the wayside , what with one thing and another. I have refocused and was back into the gym this morning. As part of Operation Marshmallow to Muscle, I am following the Triple Threat Workout by Dr John Berardi, featured in this month's Oxygen magazine.
Apparently our total daily metabolic rate can be broken down into 4 components:
* Resting metabolic rate
* Physical activity level
* Thermic effect of feeding
* Non-exercise activity thermogenesis
If we want to maximally boost our metabolism we need to rev up all 4 of these components, and to do so we need to take aim at 5 main metabolic targets: muscle, afterburn, post-meal metabolism, inefficiency and exercise volume.
The Triple Threat Workout is designed to maximise 4 of the 5 targets. And the workout got its name because it combines 3 types of exercise:
* weight training
* interval exercise
* active recovery cardio
So, for example, a weekly workout could look like this:
Monday
Weight training: lower body weights
Tuesday
Interval exercise session 1: 7 to 10 x 30sec high intensity; 90 secs low intensity
Wednesday
Active recovery cardio workout: 60mins of low intensity cardio
Thursday
Weight training: Upper body weights
Friday
Interval exercise session 2: 7 to 10 x 60sec high intensity; 60sec low intensity
Saturday
Active recovery cardio workout: 60mins of low intensity cardio
Sunday
Rest
I have changed it slightly for the weights session: I do a whole body weights session rather than split it into upper and lower body over 2 sessions. For Monday (today) I do (did) progressively heavier weights and progressively lower reps. For my other weights session I will do lighter weights and higher reps just to mix things up. Hopefully by summer there'll be more muscle than squishy marshmallow!
So that's one part of my planning put into practice. Still to come: future running goals, nutrition plan, study plans/options.........
Apparently our total daily metabolic rate can be broken down into 4 components:
* Resting metabolic rate
* Physical activity level
* Thermic effect of feeding
* Non-exercise activity thermogenesis
If we want to maximally boost our metabolism we need to rev up all 4 of these components, and to do so we need to take aim at 5 main metabolic targets: muscle, afterburn, post-meal metabolism, inefficiency and exercise volume.
The Triple Threat Workout is designed to maximise 4 of the 5 targets. And the workout got its name because it combines 3 types of exercise:
* weight training
* interval exercise
* active recovery cardio
So, for example, a weekly workout could look like this:
Monday
Weight training: lower body weights
Tuesday
Interval exercise session 1: 7 to 10 x 30sec high intensity; 90 secs low intensity
Wednesday
Active recovery cardio workout: 60mins of low intensity cardio
Thursday
Weight training: Upper body weights
Friday
Interval exercise session 2: 7 to 10 x 60sec high intensity; 60sec low intensity
Saturday
Active recovery cardio workout: 60mins of low intensity cardio
Sunday
Rest
I have changed it slightly for the weights session: I do a whole body weights session rather than split it into upper and lower body over 2 sessions. For Monday (today) I do (did) progressively heavier weights and progressively lower reps. For my other weights session I will do lighter weights and higher reps just to mix things up. Hopefully by summer there'll be more muscle than squishy marshmallow!
So that's one part of my planning put into practice. Still to come: future running goals, nutrition plan, study plans/options.........
Sunday, October 14, 2007
A little bit of what you fancy........
This afternoon I met friends for afternoon tea at where else but KokoBlack! I had a short macchiato and the Belgian Spoil platter. For those not familiar with the Belgian Spoil it comprises a small serve of chocolate icecream, a small serve of choc mousse, a small shortbread biscuit, a small choc muffin, and two KokoBlack chocolates. Yummo! The best thing about it are the small serves, so while it sounds like a lot its not......its just right! Anyway it was a great way to spend an afternoon - with Strewth, Mr B, Kelley and Rachelle. See what you missed Ewen!
Anyway I went for a run yesterday *drum roll* This consisted of 4 x 90sec jog followed by 2min walk in between. If I counted the warm up and cool down walks, it came to about 20min in total. Woo hoo! Baby steps...... The important thing was there was no pain during or after the run. However I am taking anti-inflammatories as advised by the sports doc and will be taking them for a week, so this could be masking the pain. But I'm being positive about this - I've turned the corner and on the road to recovery....slowly! (And twofruits you didn't have anything to do with this injury so just ignore Ewen)
I have also been drawing up a plan - new goals for exercise, running, nutrition and life. All will be revealed over the next few days but exciting times are ahead! See what happens when I can't run - I can't not have goals!!!
Finally a couple of photos from last week's whale watching trip.......
Anyway I went for a run yesterday *drum roll* This consisted of 4 x 90sec jog followed by 2min walk in between. If I counted the warm up and cool down walks, it came to about 20min in total. Woo hoo! Baby steps...... The important thing was there was no pain during or after the run. However I am taking anti-inflammatories as advised by the sports doc and will be taking them for a week, so this could be masking the pain. But I'm being positive about this - I've turned the corner and on the road to recovery....slowly! (And twofruits you didn't have anything to do with this injury so just ignore Ewen)
I have also been drawing up a plan - new goals for exercise, running, nutrition and life. All will be revealed over the next few days but exciting times are ahead! See what happens when I can't run - I can't not have goals!!!
Finally a couple of photos from last week's whale watching trip.......
Friday, October 12, 2007
Periostitis
Defn: Is generally considered to be an overuse injury that produces an inflammatory reaction and pain, usually along the border of a bone. Most authors agree that the pain is associated with bony periostitis, rather than the previous theory of musculotendinous inflammation
Etiology: Most studies suggest that excessive pronation, foot instability, along with a change in activity, such as type of shoes, or running surface causes increased stretch and eccentric contraction on the tibialis anterior muscle. This causes increased traction forces at the periosteal-fascial junction resulting in periosteal oedema or microfractures of the cortical bone.
Clinical features: Recent studies using MRI scans have revealed what the majority of authors thought - that periostitis occurs prior to the formation of a stress fracture (Anderson, et al., 1997; and Fredericson, et al., 1995). This therefore makes it extremely difficult to differentiate clinically between the two, because of the similar signs and symptoms.
Symptoms: It a condition also exaggerated by exercise and relieved by rest. The pain description can vary from a dull ache to severe pain, especially with prolonged activity. The patient will nearly always confirm that the pain is along the border of a bone.
Treatment: Since most authors agree that periostitis precedes most stress fractures, the treatment is basically the same. The patient must be aware of the implications of developing a stress fracture if activity is not modified. The treatment relies heavily on rest followed by gradual resumption of exercise. Rest can be considered a relative decrease in the offending activity to a level which is comfortable. In the acute phase cryotherapy, ultrasound and physiotherapy are recommended, while the chronic stage involves the use of massage, heat, trigger point therapy, ultrasound, shoe modification, and taping procedures. Orthotics should be prescribed to assist athletes with excessive pronation or abnormal subtalar mobility. Should these conservative measures fail, anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections may be of benefit.
Ok, lesson over....
I had a bone scan yesterday and the diagnosis is periostitis. Better than a stress fracture I guess though looking at the treatment, I can't really see the difference! I can try some 'running' ie 90sec jogging followed by walking and repeat this several times. The sports doc looked at me very firmly as she was saying this and then, to add insult to injury, ended her lecture with "so don't go out tomorrow and run for 30min". *sigh* She knows me too well....
If, in a fortnight's time, it is still sore, then I am to have a cortisone injection. Ouch.....
So what have I been doing in the meantime to compensate for no running?
Well, there was a trip to Merimbula last weekend for a spot of whale watching - unreal, amazing, incredible. The weather wasn't great and it was very windy and the ocean was very choppy but to our credit, no-one in our little group threw up. We must've seen around 20 whales - it really was sensational. There was also a visit or two to Truffles, a chocolate cafe. And highly recommended is a little cafe in Nimmitabel called CJ Harveys - and no, I don't have shares in it! But it serves great coffee and food - the toasted chicken panini was to die for. We stopped there for lunch on our way back to Canberra last Sunday.
I visited KokoBlack here in Canberra a fortnight ago - the first time since it opened in June this year. Here is the link: drooling permitted!: http://www.kokoblack.com/ *And girls (and boy), and you know who you are (!),* I'm going there again this Sunday for afternoon tea with friends AND again in a fortnight's time for morning tea with another group of friends! So texting me while I am in my sick bed to tell me you are at KokoBlacks did not have the desired effect of making me jealous....well, ok, a teensy little bit!
So, no running but a lot of chocolate consumption! I'm morphing from Fit CJ into Fat CJ!!!!
Until next time.......
ps Congratulations to everyone who ran the Melbourne Marathon - you did well, given the circumstances some of you experienced. Well done guys, I'm very proud of you.
Etiology: Most studies suggest that excessive pronation, foot instability, along with a change in activity, such as type of shoes, or running surface causes increased stretch and eccentric contraction on the tibialis anterior muscle. This causes increased traction forces at the periosteal-fascial junction resulting in periosteal oedema or microfractures of the cortical bone.
Clinical features: Recent studies using MRI scans have revealed what the majority of authors thought - that periostitis occurs prior to the formation of a stress fracture (Anderson, et al., 1997; and Fredericson, et al., 1995). This therefore makes it extremely difficult to differentiate clinically between the two, because of the similar signs and symptoms.
Symptoms: It a condition also exaggerated by exercise and relieved by rest. The pain description can vary from a dull ache to severe pain, especially with prolonged activity. The patient will nearly always confirm that the pain is along the border of a bone.
Treatment: Since most authors agree that periostitis precedes most stress fractures, the treatment is basically the same. The patient must be aware of the implications of developing a stress fracture if activity is not modified. The treatment relies heavily on rest followed by gradual resumption of exercise. Rest can be considered a relative decrease in the offending activity to a level which is comfortable. In the acute phase cryotherapy, ultrasound and physiotherapy are recommended, while the chronic stage involves the use of massage, heat, trigger point therapy, ultrasound, shoe modification, and taping procedures. Orthotics should be prescribed to assist athletes with excessive pronation or abnormal subtalar mobility. Should these conservative measures fail, anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections may be of benefit.
Ok, lesson over....
I had a bone scan yesterday and the diagnosis is periostitis. Better than a stress fracture I guess though looking at the treatment, I can't really see the difference! I can try some 'running' ie 90sec jogging followed by walking and repeat this several times. The sports doc looked at me very firmly as she was saying this and then, to add insult to injury, ended her lecture with "so don't go out tomorrow and run for 30min". *sigh* She knows me too well....
If, in a fortnight's time, it is still sore, then I am to have a cortisone injection. Ouch.....
So what have I been doing in the meantime to compensate for no running?
Well, there was a trip to Merimbula last weekend for a spot of whale watching - unreal, amazing, incredible. The weather wasn't great and it was very windy and the ocean was very choppy but to our credit, no-one in our little group threw up. We must've seen around 20 whales - it really was sensational. There was also a visit or two to Truffles, a chocolate cafe. And highly recommended is a little cafe in Nimmitabel called CJ Harveys - and no, I don't have shares in it! But it serves great coffee and food - the toasted chicken panini was to die for. We stopped there for lunch on our way back to Canberra last Sunday.
I visited KokoBlack here in Canberra a fortnight ago - the first time since it opened in June this year. Here is the link: drooling permitted!: http://www.kokoblack.com/ *And girls (and boy), and you know who you are (!),* I'm going there again this Sunday for afternoon tea with friends AND again in a fortnight's time for morning tea with another group of friends! So texting me while I am in my sick bed to tell me you are at KokoBlacks did not have the desired effect of making me jealous....well, ok, a teensy little bit!
So, no running but a lot of chocolate consumption! I'm morphing from Fit CJ into Fat CJ!!!!
Until next time.......
ps Congratulations to everyone who ran the Melbourne Marathon - you did well, given the circumstances some of you experienced. Well done guys, I'm very proud of you.
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