MUScoop
MUScoop => The Superbar => Topic started by: ChitownSpaceForRent on May 13, 2016, 02:49:54 PM
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Need to get back into a shape that's not round. Went for a run today but realized how hopeless I was. For all you runners on scoop, what's the best way to get started and maintain/improve on distance and time?
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Go grain free and save yo knees by walkin', ai na?
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Need to get back into a shape that's not round. Went for a run today but realized how hopeless I was. For all you runners on scoop, what's the best way to get started and maintain/improve on distance and time?
Running is great if you enjoy the challenge, but I will say 100% the most dramatic improvement in fitness I've had was through weight training.
If you're in Milwaukee I have a very very strong recommend for a personal trainer. I'm talking 40 lbs dropped with no extreme diet sh1t, and no cardio (not a fan).
Anyway, DM me if you're interested in the referral
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If you're anywhere near a beach it is lower impact to run on sand and the fact that it gives way as you run actually makes it a better workout.
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Running is great if you enjoy the challenge, but I will say 100% the most dramatic improvement in fitness I've had was through weight training.
Definitely the way to go. May be a little expensive.
If you join a Fitness Center, you will probably pay $500 - $750 extra per 3 months with a trainer. But it is the quickest, most effective way.
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Need to get back into a shape that's not round. Went for a run today but realized how hopeless I was. For all you runners on scoop, what's the best way to get started and maintain/improve on distance and time?
Start small and work your way up. I have no idea your physical condition, but I'd start with relatively short distances (1 mile or so). It might sound silly, but I love the Zombies Run! app. You can even start out walking and just up your speed when the app indicates a mob is chasing you. Pretty good storyline as well.
I think running is good for conditioning and to build endurance, but as mentioned, it isn't necessarily the best weight loss method.
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I've been running regularly for 20 years off of 10 years as a "you'll pry this cigarette out of my dead cold hand" smoker. The way I started was to mark a mile from my house, I did it every day until i didn't have to walk, then increased the distance in 1/2 mile increments. For me, the key was not about pace, it was about making sure i kept moving (fast, slow, walk, occasional crawl).
Also, have FUN with it and listen to your body - you'll be shocked at how quickly your endurance improves.
I dropped 20lbs pretty quickly - but it was 20 years ago. Now i find that if i need to drop 10, as others have said, i throw in cross training too. Not specifically weightlifting but burpees, pushups, jump rope, etc.......but runnings always at the core of my workout.
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Run through the pain. And ignore the elements. There is no such thing as too cold, it's raining, the dog ate my homework...
Also, do it first thing in the morning. That way you make sure it gets done.
And sign up for races. It gives you goals.
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I hate running (I mean really hate it), but I do it because it is a very efficient way to exercise in terms of time. I have run four half-marathons in the last year and a half.
Not everyone is motivated by the same things, but here is what worked for me:
1. Sign up for a race. There are many times that the only reason I stuck to my training routine was that I didn't want to look like a pathetic loser on the course. Plus I am a competitive person, and I am always looking to improve my time.
2. Get a formal training program. There are tons of apps that help you, no matter what shape you are in when you start. I have heard the Couch to 5K app is pretty good if you are starting from zero. I use Hal Higdon.
3. Music helps me a lot. If I didn't have it, the words "I hate this I hate this I hate this" would be running through my brain on a loop. Put together a playlist of songs that get you fired up, and listen to it when you run. Being a Marquette fan, I have "Thunderstruck" and "Sandstorm" on mine (of course), plus songs like Beastie Boy's "Sabotage" and "Hocus Pocus" by Focus. But you have to find what works for you. And use a lot of songs. Even your favorite song gets annoying if it repeats often enough.
4. Get properly fitted for shoes at a running shoe store. Don't go to the Nike Outlet; go to a place like Dick Pond or East Bay or Fleet Feet, where they study your gait and measure your feet.
If you stick to the routine and make healthier food choices, you'll start seeing results. I don't know if you have seen Chick jr. since graduation, but running helped her lose all the beer weight she accumulated in college.
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+1 on chick's suggestion to get the right running shoes, and make sure they fit properly. The true running-centric places usually have people who will ask a bunch of questions, get proper measurements, and not push you to get anything that isn't right for you.
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Run through the pain. And ignore the elements. There is no such thing as too cold, it's raining, the dog ate my homework...
Also, do it first thing in the morning. That way you make sure it gets done.
And sign up for races. It gives you goals.
Plus one on getting it done in the morning. Create your own micro climate in all weather is also another Keefe plus one. There is no bad weather, just bad gear.
One original suggestion: get a friend to train with. Keep the ear buds at home and chat the run away with a pal.
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Three words: Hash House Harriers.
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Plus one on getting it done in the morning. Create your own micro climate in all weather is also another Keefe plus one. There is no bad weather, just bad gear.
One original suggestion: get a friend to train with. Keep the ear buds at home and chat the run away with a pal.
i was a night runner pre kids but now i'm home before anyone wakes up - it's a cool side of your neighborhood not everyone sees when you're out your door at 5:45.
On the weather.....my personal boundaries are 0 air or -15 wind and ice. Anyone can run when it's 60 and sunny.
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Running is great if you enjoy the challenge, but I will say 100% the most dramatic improvement in fitness I've had was through weight training.
If you're in Milwaukee I have a very very strong recommend for a personal trainer. I'm talking 40 lbs dropped with no extreme diet sh1t, and no cardio (not a fan).
Anyway, DM me if you're interested in the referral
Appreciate the offer but I am back in chicago now a days.
Chick last time I saw chick jr was when she had the messed up foot so no running for her during that time.
Thanks for the advice yall, I think I bit off a little more than I could chew today but now I know. Went for 1.5 miles didn't run all the way but tried. It's wword because I definitely weigh much more than I did when I was playing volleyball everyday but I'm still pretty athletic. I can still jump decently well and hit a volleyball down and get down the line pretty quick in softball. Just put on a few (generous) lbs that last year of school and don't have the endurance anymore.
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Do Al's run.
Quaf 12 pack at Summerfest afterwards.
Hell of a day.
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Appreciate the offer but I am back in chicago now a days.
Chick last time I saw chick jr was when she had the messed up foot so no running for her during that time.
Thanks for the advice yall, I think I bit off a little more than I could chew today but now I know. Went for 1.5 miles didn't run all the way but tried. It's wword because I definitely weigh much more than I did when I was playing volleyball everyday but I'm still pretty athletic. I can still jump decently well and hit a volleyball down and get down the line pretty quick in softball. Just put on a few (generous) lbs that last year of school and don't have the endurance anymore.
Yep, chick jr. had a walking boot for awhile. She had a stress fracture in her ankle, but she is back running now.
Just keep at it, Chitown. You're young, and you will be surprised how quickly you get back in shape. And calories in is as important as calories burned. I don't think you need to actually go on a diet, but even simple things like drinking water as a beverage instead of beer or soda can make a big difference.
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I have to echo those who say weight training will get you in better shape. Try Crossfit or something like that. Running to me is very boring and I don't like it.
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I have to echo those who say weight training will get you in better shape. Try Crossfit or something like that. Running to me is very boring and I don't like it.
Crossfit is effective, but be careful. The trainers tend to push you as hard as possible in every workout and on every rep. It can be dangerous if your body isn't ready for it.
I like Crossfit, and it's a big part of why I am where I am in life today, but it can be overtaxing for those not ready for that level of workout and commitment.
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I have to echo those who say weight training will get you in better shape. Try Crossfit or something like that. Running to me is very boring and I don't like it.
IMHO is depends what you mean by "weight training" and "running."
If weight training means the same few exercises on the same few pieces of equipment day after day, it can be pretty boring too. And if running means the same route every day or the treadmill, yes, it can get very boring. The key with either is changing it up. If you're running, try different routes - turn left where you might usually turn right - just to see where it takes you.
I think the better way to do it isn't by deciding "weight training" or "running" - it's doing an interesting mix of both, and adding some core strength exercises. Sorta like Crossfit, but without the fees.
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Thanks for the advice yall, I think I bit off a little more than I could chew today but now I know. Went for 1.5 miles didn't run all the way but tried. It's wword because I definitely weigh much more than I did when I was playing volleyball everyday but I'm still pretty athletic. I can still jump decently well and hit a volleyball down and get down the line pretty quick in softball. Just put on a few (generous) lbs that last year of school and don't have the endurance anymore.
If you really want to get fit I can introduce you to some great guys who will take you under their wing and get you in the best shape of your life. Not only will you shed fat and add muscle but they will throw in the workout gear, three squares a day, a warm place to rest your head, and cut you beer money every 15 days.
Once you get in shape they will give you some incredible stuff to play with, let you climb mountains, skydive from 4 miles up, and put the hurt on bad people while blowing sh1t up. Side benefits include forging the best friendships you will ever make, women in yoga pants, and turning those little grapes into solid brass.
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Do H.I.I.T. Training. It's tremendously more effective than endurance like biking and running it'll also burn fat faster than weights.
I suggest battle ropes, mountain climbers, sprints, medicine ball slams and burpies. It sucks but your workouts will be shorter and more effective. Keep one day of cardio a week as a break.
Trust me I can eat like crap, drink my body weight and doing workouts like this it keeps me in fighting shape.
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If you really want to get fit I can introduce you to some great guys who will take you under their wing and get you in the best shape of your life. Not only will you shed fat and add muscle but they will throw in the workout gear, three squares a day, a warm place to rest your head, and cut you beer money every 15 days.
Once you get in shape they will give you some incredible stuff to play with, let you climb mountains, skydive from 4 miles up, and put the hurt on bad people while blowing sh1t up. Side benefits include forging the best friendships you will ever make, women in yoga pants, and turning those little grapes into solid brass.
Reminds me of the beginning of Private Benjamin.
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Already a lot of improvement on day 2. I still don't have the music going because I dont have Spotify or anything but I don't know if it would help much anyways.
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Already a lot of improvement on day 2. I still don't have the music going because I dont have Spotify or anything but I don't know if it would help much anyways.
I'll echo above. Sign up for a race for motivation. Also find a group like Hash House as Benny said. Be very cautious with Crossfit, definitely helped the PT business. Be very cautions with buying "special shoes." Most studies show they don't do anything to change gait mechanic (placebo effect?). If you have access to a treadmill and someone to video you, I can look at it to see if there is anything that really stands to lead to a future injury.
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I'll echo above. Sign up for a race for motivation. Also find a group like Hash House as Benny said.
The Hash was started by expats living in KL as an excuse to drink beer. It morphed into a hook up thing over the years. I did the Hash in Hong Kong until my wife, who could kick my ass in a 10K, came along one time and saw what the majority of Hashers were about. She just gave me that look which communicated my Hashing days had come to an end.
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Already a lot of improvement on day 2. I still don't have the music going because I dont have Spotify or anything but I don't know if it would help much anyways.
Music really helps me, just takes your mind off of everything and you don't have to listen to yourself breathing. Pandora and Spotify are both easy to download and use, as long as you're fine with carrying your phone or running with it in your pocket.
My tips would depend on your end-goal. I agree with everyone who has recommended signing up for a race, whether it be a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, etc. For me, signing up for my first half marathon is what got me into good shape. I signed up for a race about 20 weeks out. I ran 2 miles about 4-5 times a week for 4 weeks, then there are plenty of 16 week training programs to follow to get you running consistently and ready for the race.
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The Hash was started by expats living in KL as an excuse to drink beer. It morphed into a hook up thing over the years. I did the Hash in Hong Kong until my wife, who could kick my ass in a 10K, came along one time and saw what the majority of Hashers were about. She just gave me that look which communicated my Hashing days had come to an end.
Totally agree on the hash if there's one around. "A drinking club with a running problem". They typically pick fun routes, don't discourage walking, offer roles for those who are injured to remain with the group (hash piss), and never take themselves too seriously.
On another note, from a slightly (ok, seriously) overweight individual who enjoys running, get a pair of "fat boy" running shoes. My current faves are New Balance 1260 v5 but Asics also has a "fat boy" design. A good running shop will let you go around the block in them to see how they really feel. Good, supportive shoes make a huge difference.
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Music really helps me, just takes your mind off of everything and you don't have to listen to yourself breathing. Pandora and Spotify are both easy to download and use, as long as you're fine with carrying your phone or running with it in your pocket.
I use an SPI belt to carry my phone. It's great. It doesn't bounce when you run. You hardly know it's there. It's also great for races, because while I don't listen to music, it's so much easier to meet up with your friends or family post-race if you have your phone.
http://www.amazon.com/SPIbelt-Sports-Running-Belt-Original/dp/B005OVQQBM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1463317368&sr=8-2&keywords=spi-belt
(https://spibelt.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/spibelt-web1-600x600.jpg)
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It doesn't bounce when you run. You hardly know it's there. ]
Sports bra?
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The Hash was started by expats living in KL as an excuse to drink beer. It morphed into a hook up thing over the years. I did the Hash in Hong Kong until my wife, who could kick my ass in a 10K, came along one time and saw what the majority of Hashers were about. She just gave me that look which communicated my Hashing days had come to an end.
Dang... I musta ran with the wrong Hash groups then. Either that or I drank too much beer to realize what was going on.
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Dang... I musta ran with the wrong Hash groups then. Either that or I drank too much beer to realize what was going on.
The Hash in HK was mostly Brits and Aussies and they were much better drinkers than runners. What always surprised me was how people would go for a run and then start firing up smokes immediately afterwards. But I guess drinking and smoking is like peanut butter and jelly to some.
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Need to get back into a shape that's not round. Went for a run today but realized how hopeless I was. For all you runners on scoop, what's the best way to get started and maintain/improve on distance and time?
I've been running regularly for 33 years. I run 5:30 every morning except winter. I generally do 2.75 to 3.5 mile runs. I do 6 to 8 races a year. Normally 5Ks, but I've thrown a few other distances in recently for fun. 5th Avenue Mile for the opportunity to run down 5th Ave New York City and the Sleepy Hollow 10K where the race is lead by a Headless Horseman and autumn views of the Hudson River.
Training to run is like a race itself. It takes persistence and don't judge where you are in 1-2 weeks, but take a peek at 3 months or 6 months and a year later.
1. Just keep at. Schedule in 30 minutes every day that fits your schedule to run. Run 5 to 6 days a week.
2. Build up distance. If you can only do 1.5 to 2 miles at a time then do that for several weeks until you're comfortable then up your distance, repeat. Ideally you want to be very comfortable doing 3 miles as that is the distance of most races.
3. Improve distance. - If you want to run longer, take 2 or 3 days a week and do a 4 to 8 mile run.
4. Improve Time. - This one is the hardest. You need to do speed workouts as part of your training. You need to visit a track. Sprint 200meters, jog slow for 100m, Sprint 200m, jog slow 100m until you reached 3 miles. There are training exercises also.
5. Improve time and endurance - Do hills. Run quickly up hills. I live in New England so everything is hills constantly. After awhile any hill on your run will become as routine as any flat surface.
6. Vary your running routes, so you're not doing the same distance and same roads every day. It's OK to have a Monday route and a Tuesday route, etc.
7. Get a running App on your phone. I use Caledos Runner that ties in with Runkeeper. You can see all your tracked data online and see paces, times, distances and maps. I don't use it, but you can set training plans with an App.
8. Wear comfortable shoes. Dress appropriately for the weather. If it's cold wear a hat. I have blinking light, so cars can see me when it's still relatively dark.
This is a good website for running. They handle sign-ups for many races, but they have good section on running reading material, advice, and tips.
http://www.active.com/running
Any other questions feel free to contact me.
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Regarding dressing for the weather, I use the famous 20-degree rule: Dress like you would if it were 20 degrees warmer.
The first time I ran in 45-degree weather wearing no jacket and a long-sleeve tech shirt, I thought it was crazy, but it worked. You might want running gloves, but I found that they made my hands too sweaty. You might want a headband instead of a hat for the same reason.
If you are running a race in colder weather, go to Goodwill and buy a 5-dollar hoodie that you can wear while you are waiting for the race to start and can toss to the side when the gun goes off. Some races actually collect them along the route and donate them afterwards.
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Regarding dressing for the weather, I use the famous 20-degree rule: Dress like you would if it were 20 degrees warmer.
The first time I ran in 45-degree weather wearing no jacket and a long-sleeve tech shirt, I thought it was crazy, but it worked. You might want running gloves, but I found that they made my hands too sweaty. You might want a headband instead of a hat for the same reason.
If you are running a race in colder weather, go to Goodwill and buy a 5-dollar hoodie that you can wear while you are waiting for the race to start and can toss to the side when the gun goes off. Some races actually collect them along the route and donate them afterwards.
The 5th Avenue Mile does this. They give you a bag with a number. Before your heat, you can stuff all your warm up sweats and stuff into the bag. The stick it on a truck that leaves before the run starts and is waiting for you at pick up after the race.
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The 5th Avenue Mile does this. They give you a bag with a number. Before your heat, you can stuff all your warm up sweats and stuff into the bag. The stick it on a truck that leaves before the run starts and is waiting for you at pick up after the race.
Most races do this, but the cutoff is usually something like 30 minutes before race time, so you are standing around in the cold for quite awhile waiting for the race to start.
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Bit late to the party on this one but as someone that despised running as a pursuit for the first 30 years of my life, I will attest to it's awesomeness and can give you some good tips(I think).
I've always played sports at an extremely competitive level, even into college so I never really had to do independent training. Then I stopped playing sports but had to keep trying to service requirements(you never see a fat pilot, well unless they're air force), but then when that fell through, my years of eating and drinking whatever I wanted caught up to me as I hadn't really developed a workout plan. Flash forward to 90 pounds and 10 years more, one day playing basketball, tore my ACL....probably because I was just too damn fat. Rehabbing the ACL means no cutting and not sports for 10 months and running is good rehab for the knee so I decided to jump into running as a competitive sport just to see if I could get over my hatred of it. Running 6 days a week, with a couple of days of light lifting a week, plus tracking my calories in and out via app, I lost 80 pounds in 9 months and haven't felt better physically in a long long time. 6 years later it is now one of the core things I do almost every day and I hate it if I don't get a run in for some reason.
So it definitely works and I laid that sad story out as encouragement that if I guy like me can do it, you can too. I think a lot of the advice here is good stuff so some I'll echo, some might be new
1. Go to a running store, get your gait analyzed and get a decent pair of shoes that fit your gait. Doesn't have to be the best pair of shoes, but a solid pair goes a long way toward making the run more comfortable and save the knees and feet
2. Find someone or someones that are looking to start like you. Encouragement is good, and if you have a standing running "date" you are much more likely to do it then if it's just you. Plus you might find some every day competition to push each other
3. Sign up for races of different lengths, the sooner the better. Once you get times on those races you'll find yourself wanting to do another race just to get a better time then last time and your training takes on more importance.
4. Definitely make it a habit, plan runs for times when you know you will do it. If you are an early riser like me and like to make excuses like me...do it in the morning then you can't flake on it later in the day. And you get a surprising amount of energy for the rest of the day.
5. Be consistent in the first 6-9 months. I would only run in the mornings for the first 6 months until I got in the habit. Now I'll run 3 or 4 days in the morning but then 2 days during the week I run during lunch because it breaks up the work day nicely for me.
6. Listening to music is good, but also try podcasts...anything to disengage the higher function of the brain. I spent a lot of time in the "early" years of running not listening to anything and my brain would focus on how hard it was or how boring or how tired I was. If you can distract while being safe it helps a lot
7. Be really aware of your running form early. If you get in bad habits it can hurt long term so just make sure you are running correctly at the cost of fast or long. Both can be developed with time but only if you aren't hurt all the time
8. Invest in equipment slowly. You can blow a ton of money in running gear, so start investing slowly as you figure out what you like and what is comfortable. You don't have to have all the latest and greatest to enjoy running. Plus if you are doing a bunch of races you'll get plenty of tech shirts for "free" along the way.
9. Track your runs both from a time and calorie standpoint, especially if weight loss is a goal. MyFitnessPal is a great app for tracking food and run results.
10. Get a running watch that isn't super fancy but does the following things well: GPS, real time pace, average pace and distance run(sub-set of GPS). You don't need a heart rate monitor or fancy split timer etc. Again invest slowly so don't buy top of the line.
10. Listen to your body. There is a difference between gutting out a run when you want to quit and gutting out a run when your knee is killing you. If something physically doesn't feel right, take a break and crosstrain, lift weights for a couple of days and let it heal up. If you fight through an injury it never gets better.
11. Find as many interesting places to run as you can where it's convenient to run. Variety is the spice of life, so it is with running. Don't run the same route day in and day out, you will get bored no matter what you listen to. If you have to run in the neighborhood every week because of time that's fine, but make sure the weekend run is somewhere completely different. You can even vary the neighborhood runs, go left instead of right sometimes.
12. Have fun and enjoy it, don't make it your nemisis or you'll burn out on it. It really can be a great way to disengage your brain and leave your cares behind.
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FWIW--Four years ago I decided I wanted to lose 50lbs for my 50th birthday which was ten months away from my start date. I was in HORRIBLE shape and had not exercised in years and was unsure how to get started. So, I started by going to gym everyday and walking on treadmill with a fairly good incline. Everyday I increased a tad and by the third month I was jogging. I even got myself ready for half marathon roughly 15 months after starting my working out.
To me the best things I did was: stayed within my comfort level at beginning, realistic expectations, did not miss many days at gym in first year (over 95% attendance) and I kept a journal to keep me focused. No outside trainer or help, just a fat middle aged guy on the treadmill at local Y. Proud to say nearly 4 years later 95% of the weight is still off and still hit the gym over 80% of the days every month.
Good luck!!
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I too am arriving a little late to the party but hope that my experiences might be helpful.
My experience with running was similar to 03's. I played sports at a highly competitive level through college and even a couple of years after that. Even in my late 30's / early 40s I stayed in "decent" shape by playing softball three nights a week in the summer and basketball a couple of nights a week in the winter. My friends and I laughed at runners because it looked like such a grim and boring way to get or stay in shape. My mantra was "Until I see one of those SOBs running with a smile on his or her face I'm not even mildly interested". In my mid 40s I gave up my semi beneficial hobbies and the only real exercise I got for the next 7 or 8 years was walking the golf course (so not much). Disappointed in the way I looked and felt, I went for my first "run" at 52. I barely covered 1 mile and it took me about 11 minutes. I knew I was out of shape but I had no idea it was that bad! The shock was enough to get me back in the gym and running became part of my regimen. For me it was like Scotch whiskey - I didn't enjoy it initially but it became an acquired taste. Ran some 5ks, some 10ks and at age 55 my first marathon. I qualified for the Boston Marathon at age 60 and running it with my brother-in-law in 2010 was a "bucket list" thrill. I've given up long races but still run 20 miles a week and an occasional 5k or 10k race. I don't have much to add (the advice given by previous Scoop runners was all good) but here are some things I've found:
1.Go easy at first and don't get discouraged - everyone struggles some initially.
2.Once you've built up enough stamina to run 3 miles without stopping and are putting in 12-15 miles a week, start training for your first 5k. Training regimens are easy to find on the net. I used Hal Higdon's, but I'm sure there are more up to date ones available.
3.Run through discomfort but not through injury. Normal soreness (or even something like patella tendonitis) can actually be diminished by pushing through. A strained/torn hamstring can't.
4.Music and podcasts are great for running - they're a distraction that can help you pile up miles. But every once in awhile run without the headphones - moments of clarity and even that euphoric but elusive "runner's high" are more likely without them.
5.Once you find a groove, think about joining a running club. The social benefits speak for themselves and the commitment can get you going on days you're not feelin' it.
most of all good luck - if you give running a chance it can change your life.
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Lenny
You are right on changing your life. When I started I was struggling with dealing of loss of several people I loved, tough times in business and general stress in life. I really do believe that getting on that treadmill everyday helped me cope much, much easier. Told my wife many times that exercise changed my life. Really glad that I made the first step nearly four years ago.
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Lenny
You are right on changing your life. When I started I was struggling with dealing of loss of several people I loved, tough times in business and general stress in life. I really do believe that getting on that treadmill everyday helped me cope much, much easier. Told my wife many times that exercise changed my life. Really glad that I made the first step nearly four years ago.
I heard rumors about your new wellness from the Commissioner. But have you scraped off the years of varnish from the Knotty Pine?
Glad to hear of your good health.
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Lots of good advice here.
One other thing about running, is I take enjoyment of bringing my running shoes on vacation & business trips for the opportunity to run in new locations and explore some areas or public parks you might not see in normal sightseeing. Off the beaten path.
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You are right on changing your life. When I started I was struggling with dealing of loss of several people I loved, tough times in business and general stress in life. I really do believe that getting on that treadmill everyday helped me cope much, much easier. Told my wife many times that exercise changed my life. Really glad that I made the first step nearly four years ago.
I feel the same way. I was a regular runner since high school and have since branched into cycling and some weight stuff. Whenever bad stuff happens, a good workout helps me deal better with life's downs.
A few years ago, a lot of stresses that had been building up for years (job, family stuff, etc) boiled over and sent me into a deep depression and panic attacks. Regular exercise was one of the primary tools I used to get back into life.
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Lots of good advice here.
One other thing about running, is I take enjoyment of bringing my running shoes on vacation & business trips for the opportunity to run in new locations and explore some areas or public parks you might not see in normal sightseeing. Off the beaten path.
LOL once I went to a conference in Arlington, Virginia and wound up getting chased by some MPs. Apparently, I was jogging a little to close to the Pentagon for their comfort.
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Regarding dressing for the weather, I use the famous 20-degree rule: Dress like you would if it were 20 degrees warmer.
So...what are you wearing when it's above 80'?
Pics?
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Lots of good advice here.
One other thing about running, is I take enjoyment of bringing my running shoes on vacation & business trips for the opportunity to run in new locations and explore some areas or public parks you might not see in normal sightseeing. Off the beaten path.
I do that all the time, every business trip or vacation I'm on I log miles and go someplace interesting, great way to see a city and find places to eat(what, I'm burning calories). Last time I was in NYC I stayed in Chinatown, I jogged over to Brooklyn and back using the namesake bridge and it was like being a kid.
Colleagues who haven't worked with me much will look at me funny when I ask what the best trail is in whatever city I happen to be in.
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I do that all the time, every business trip or vacation I'm on I log miles and go someplace interesting, great way to see a city and find places to eat(what, I'm burning calories). Last time I was in NYC I stayed in Chinatown, I jogged over to Brooklyn and back using the namesake bridge and it was like being a kid.
Colleagues who haven't worked with me much will look at me funny when I ask what the best trail is in whatever city I happen to be in.
Best way to defeat jet lag is a good hard run. When the other guys go looking for a beer I laced them up and ran for an hour. Easiest, most effective way to reset the body clock.
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(you never see a fat pilot, well unless they're air force)
FA-18 RAG class heading out to the ramp.
(https://tse3.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.M94d3c18c44a0d17cd9224982fd2957b8o0&pid=15.1)
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FA-18 RAG class heading out to the ramp.
(https://tse3.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.M94d3c18c44a0d17cd9224982fd2957b8o0&pid=15.1)
I'm guessing they fly jumbo jets?
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FA-18 RAG class heading out to the ramp.
(https://tse3.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.M94d3c18c44a0d17cd9224982fd2957b8o0&pid=15.1)
(http://d2crf0x3egcub6.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/omg.gif)
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I'm a huge runner (7 marathons signed up so far this year), but I second adding weight-lifting being more beneficial. I got to the point where I felt skinny fat since I was wearing off most of my upper body muscle.
But it all comes down to motivation. To me it was easier to just jog 7-10 miles outside than to actually force myself to do more body work (even simple stuff like pull-ups and push-ups.
As for getting started, just make it as easy and simple as possible. Have a set path by your home or treadmill with everything set up. When I first started running I thought I would get motivated by finding a cool spot or meeting friends. That became a burden and was easy to create excuses (I don't have time to drive to the trail, my friend cancelled, etc) You have to get into the mindset that you have a spot for your running gear with your headphones and a charged iphone or mp3 player ready to go. It's hard to find an excuse why you can't do a 20 minute couple miler if everything is set-up. I did that with my weight-lifting. After some arguments with the wife, I have a pull-up bar in the in a main room where it is easy to squeeze in a couple sets of pull-ups everyday along with a rack of small weights and a DIY medicine ball (filled a new basketball with sand and plugged it with a bike tire patch- $20 bucks for a $25 weight and looks kind of cool). Don't give yourself any excuses.
As for during the runs, I need something in my year. Races I do music but having a nice 45 min podcast to zone out to really helps a light jog go by fast.
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Sir Lawrence
Years of Knotty Pine and other establishments definitely has taken a toll on the body. The new routine allows for me to misbehave from time to time.
Saw the Commissioner a couple of weeks ago and had a nice time at Pius XI Trivia night. Fun time had by all.
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LOL once I went to a conference in Arlington, Virginia and wound up getting chased by some MPs. Apparently, I was jogging a little to close to the Pentagon for their comfort.
I've run that neighborhood. I kept away from MPs. I recall staying at the Residence Inn on Army-Navy Drive and the hotel view is the Pentagon and a jumble of highways. The only landmark or park to run to was up a steep hill to Air Force Memorial which I made the visit to.
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I've run that neighborhood. I kept away from MPs. I recall staying at the Residence Inn on Army-Navy Drive and the hotel view is the Pentagon and a jumble of highways. The only landmark or park to run to was up a steep hill to Air Force Memorial which I made the visit to.
DC is a great place to run if you get out in the early mornings for sure.
I think we've spent enough time giving our young padawan some running advice.....what is everyone's favorite race and/or route they have run?
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And now, the bizarre running story from a foreign locale on a business trip.
On my second business trip to Mexico City, I expanded my morning run route in the Polanco neighborhood. At 6:00AM it is extremely weird to see no traffic at all in a city of 18 million people. The only cars I saw were Policia and idling taxis waiting for a call.
I neared the end of my run. I had to cross the street where there were no parked cars, so I ran behind a newspaper kiosk on the corner and a second later - BAMMM!!! Something grabbed my foot and I went lip first into the street unable to break my fall. Someone in their infinite wisdom decided to cement into the edge of the sidewalk a slightly above ankle height, crown-shaped chain fence. The chain snagged my ankle and because it was swingable but unmovable, it hung to my foot and I was immediately stopped in mid-stride.
I had a horribly bad swollen lip and my big toe caught a share of the fall and was black-and-blue for weeks. I had to go to a business meeting at a customer that afternoon where it worked to my advantage because the customer wanted to unfairly ream my company out, but instead took some pity on the wounded gringo and the meeting ended up being thankfully shorter than my co-worker and I originally slotted.
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Lenny
You are right on changing your life. When I started I was struggling with dealing of loss of several people I loved, tough times in business and general stress in life. I really do believe that getting on that treadmill everyday helped me cope much, much easier. Told my wife many times that exercise changed my life. Really glad that I made the first step nearly four years ago.
Goose
Can't overstate how happy I am to hear your story! Nice going, I'm sure those who love you most are proud.
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I think we've spent enough time giving our young padawan some running advice.....what is everyone's favorite race and/or route they have run?
Hood to Coast relay run.
I also did the Bourbon Chase, but HTC is better organized, and hard to find better scenery.
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DC is a great place to run if you get out in the early mornings for sure.
I think we've spent enough time giving our young padawan some running advice.....what is everyone's favorite race and/or route they have run?
Best Marathon? Marine Corps. Meticulously managed run through the nation's capital that ends at the Iwo Jima memorial at Arlington. Goose bumps.
Most scenic urban run? Bowen Road in Hong Kong. Halfway up the Peak in Mid-levels you are overlooking Central and Victoria Harbor. Breathtaking.
Best 10K? BolderBoulder. Incredibly well managed and a stirring finish line. Few get to be an Olympic athlete. But running into the stadium is a reasonable proxy for us less gifted.
Best Ultra Race? Leadville 100. 50 miles out and back. We ran this as an 8-man team of TACPs, taking turns flying lead, and stayed in formation throughout. No better way to get ready for A Stan.
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One other thing that I would echo is don't get discouraged by the time results, focus on completion instead. When I trained for my first marathon, it sucked. My time wasn't close to what I desired, but I completed it and that was encouraging. I ran my 2nd marathon in November and cut 40 minutes off of my time. Then, I did a half a couple of weekends ago and improved my pace by 30 seconds per mile.
Bottom line, is the first race (whatever length) is the hardest to train for and get out of the way. If you train for a 2nd race, it's much easier to build on.
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Keefe
Right on regarding the best urban run being in Hong Kong. Truly is amazing.
Lenny
Thank you for the kind words. Time to get on the treadmill. Have been a tad lazy the past month or so and have to stay focused.
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And now, the bizarre running story from a foreign locale on a business trip.
On my second business trip to Mexico City, I expanded my morning run route in the Polanco neighborhood. At 6:00AM it is extremely weird to see no traffic at all in a city of 18 million people. The only cars I saw were Policia and idling taxis waiting for a call.
I neared the end of my run. I had to cross the street where there were no parked cars, so I ran behind a newspaper kiosk on the corner and a second later - BAMMM!!! Something grabbed my foot and I went lip first into the street unable to break my fall. Someone in their infinite wisdom decided to cement into the edge of the sidewalk a slightly above ankle height, crown-shaped chain fence. The chain snagged my ankle and because it was swingable but unmovable, it hung to my foot and I was immediately stopped in mid-stride.
I had a horribly bad swollen lip and my big toe caught a share of the fall and was black-and-blue for weeks. I had to go to a business meeting at a customer that afternoon where it worked to my advantage because the customer wanted to unfairly ream my company out, but instead took some pity on the wounded gringo and the meeting ended up being thankfully shorter than my co-worker and I originally slotted.
Was there a week ago and was shocked they blocked off that street. The whole time I was thinking there was a major race going on. Considering it is pretty much impossible to run anywhere else in the city it was a good idea.
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DC is a great place to run if you get out in the early mornings for sure.
I think we've spent enough time giving our young padawan some running advice.....what is everyone's favorite race and/or route they have run?
though not as scenic as Keefe's i love running the local Brew-to-brew (Boulevard brewery in KC to Freestate brewery in Lawrence) it's a 42 mile relay where you set the size of your team from 1 to 10. The team runs are a blast.
Second DC running - running the mall is always cool because there are only runners out. no crowds or traffic.
edit: martyconlon's mentioning of seeing someone arrested at 10AM reminded me.....as much as i hate going to Vegas running, the strip in the AM is surreal and highly entertaining, especially as you get to the older areas.
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DC is a great place to run if you get out in the early mornings for sure.
I think we've spent enough time giving our young padawan some running advice.....what is everyone's favorite race and/or route they have run?
Favorite Trail- Right along the east side of the Milwaukee river starting off Warren north of Brady. A little treacherous since it is very uneven skinny at points, but a beautiful (dirt) trail to run along the river in a city like Milwaukee. Most people don't even know it is there. (runner-up: Trails at Lapham Peak)
Favorite Paved Trail: South side of Milwaukee along the lake. Changes scenery a few times and you don't have to worry about crossing traffic (Runner-Up: Island trail behind Summerfest Grounds)
Favorite Short-Run: Al's Run.
First Marathon: Chicago - It's flat and cool seeing the whole city and neighborhoods it offers.
Favorite Marathon: Flying Pigs. This course won't allow you to set a PR since it has a ton of hills, but it is beautiful at times and the city gets behind it. Set-up well like a big city marathon without any of the hassles.
Favorite Run: Rocky 50k in Philly
One bonus of running is it a great way to see the city when traveling. If you get to the point where a 10+ miler is appealing, you can scope out a town and then not feel bad pounding a ton of beers later that night. In the Rocky 50K mentioned above, I zig-zagged across the city and saw every part of the city (woman getting arrested at 10am in one part of town) and had a good feel for where everything was when I met my wife afterwards.
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Keefe
Right on regarding the best urban run being in Hong Kong. Truly is amazing.
Lenny
Thank you for the kind words. Time to get on the treadmill. Have been a tad lazy the past month or so and have to stay focused.
None better, Goose.
The HK Hash did Bowen Road and some runs over on the Stanley side. If we did Bowen we ended up at the Bull and Bear which was near the tram stop in Admiralty. We lived in Queen's Garden on Old Peak Road in Mid-Levels so I would walk to the start then cab it back up after a night of drinking.
Another great place to run was up in the undeveloped parts of the New Territories. Almost like a jungle.
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Keefe
Love your style!!!
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DC is a great place to run if you get out in the early mornings for sure.
I think we've spent enough time giving our young padawan some running advice.....what is everyone's favorite race and/or route they have run?
My favorite race so far has been the Las Vegas Rock 'n Roll Half Marathon.
It's in November, so the temperature is perfect. Because it's on a Sunday with the start time in the early evening, you can still do a decent amount of Las-Vegas-style partying over the weekend. I love the course. It's super-flat -- perfect for a first race or if you are trying for a PR.
You start out near the Luxor heading south on The Strip, loop around the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign, and then run all the way up Las Vegas Boulevard to downtown and back. It's pretty thrilling running down a closed-off Strip with all of the neon and flashing lights going. All along the route, you are cheered on by drunken revelers. They always have a famous-name act play a set before the start of the race.
It's an all-around great time.
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* I'll third running in Hong Kong, except the few times I was there I only ran the Kung Fu Hall of Fame walk along Victoria Harbor. Very cool watching the fishing boats at dawn among the Peak & skyscrapers.
* Anytime in my neighborhood in October seeing New England in it's autumn glory.
* Central Park, NYC is different everytime I've run there, despite the sameness.
* Savannah, GA - Flat land, and Spanish moss covered age old pin oaks. I can never get a full run in because my wife is inspired to take photos every few minutes.
* Any beach run where the tide receded and left the compressed, but soft sand. At dawn, it's usually a like a highway filled with other runners and walkers.
* King Street in Alexandria. Brick sidewalks with views of DC at the mid-point of the run from the Alexandria riverfront.
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I think we've spent enough time giving our young padawan some running advice.....what is everyone's favorite race and/or route they have run?
Favorite overall race: Big Sur Marathon- 26.2 beautiful miles up the Pacific Coast Highway, serenaded by live classical music.
Favorite city race: Twin Cities Marathon- going from Minneapolis skyscrapers, to city lakes to St. Paul mansions and the capitol, all among beautiful fall foliage.
Favorite training area: Nashville. I lived about a mile south of the Vanderbilt campus (Hillsboro Village), and I could step out my door and get to the nice suburban-like neighborhoods of Green Hills in minutes. When I had time to drive to a running area, I'd go to Percy Warner Park - Just on the outskirts of Nashville, a very hilly, rural, secluded area. Go far enough, and you are among horse paddocks on the other side of the park. Having previously lived only in Milwaukee, Chicago and Madison, Percy Warner introduced me to hills.
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Favorite overall race: Big Sur Marathon- 26.2 beautiful miles up the Pacific Coast Highway, serenaded by live classical music.
Favorite city race: Twin Cities Marathon- going from Minneapolis skyscrapers, to city lakes to St. Paul mansions and the capitol, all among beautiful fall foliage.
Favorite training area: Nashville. I lived about a mile south of the Vanderbilt campus (Hillsboro Village), and I could step out my door and get to the nice suburban-like neighborhoods of Green Hills in minutes. When I had time to drive to a running area, I'd go to Percy Warner Park - Just on the outskirts of Nashville, a very hilly, rural, secluded area. Go far enough, and you are among horse paddocks on the other side of the park. Having previously lived only in Milwaukee, Chicago and Madison, Percy Warner introduced me to hills.
I am a lazy runner, so I hate running in Nashville. Plus it's as humid as Hades down there in the summer.
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Love running Folly Island in Charleston, but I only do it November to March because other wise it's a race to see what will kill you first, the humidity or the malaria.
In Milwaukee, South Shore is a great trail with a lot of variety and ability to avoid cars. Lots of options once you get into Grant Park and coming back north I think it has the best view of downtown in Milwaukee.
I've done some trail runs in the Denver area that are spectacular but given the altitude I don't get as far as I'd like.
Races, haven't done much out of the Milwaukee/Chicago area. I like Tyranena Half in Lake Mills because most of it is great scenery(except for the last 1.5 through an industrial park) and it ends with a bunch of beer and lasagna. Trying to talk myself either into or out of doing the Chicago Marathon, depending on the day. I've heard great things, but I'm just not sure I want to commit to that level of training. I can easily do a 14 mile run if I have time without really training but to get a time I'd want and to complete the marathon without dying it feels like a large commitment to a training program.
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Love running Folly Island in Charleston, but I only do it November to March because other wise it's a race to see what will kill you first, the humidity or the malaria.
In Milwaukee, South Shore is a great trail with a lot of variety and ability to avoid cars. Lots of options once you get into Grant Park and coming back north I think it has the best view of downtown in Milwaukee.
I've done some trail runs in the Denver area that are spectacular but given the altitude I don't get as far as I'd like.
Races, haven't done much out of the Milwaukee/Chicago area. I like Tyranena Half in Lake Mills because most of it is great scenery(except for the last 1.5 through an industrial park) and it ends with a bunch of beer and lasagna. Trying to talk myself either into or out of doing the Chicago Marathon, depending on the day. I've heard great things, but I'm just not sure I want to commit to that level of training. I can easily do a 14 mile run if I have time without really training but to get a time I'd want and to complete the marathon without dying it feels like a large commitment to a training program.
There is a big time commitment to the marathon training program but the program I follow maxes you out at 21 miles so it's not THAT bad. I think it's 4 running days per week for 16 weeks. Long run on Saturday or Sunday and the longest weekday run is about 9 miles.
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I am a lazy runner, so I hate running in Nashville. Plus it's as humid as Hades down there in the summer.
I was planning on doing a half-marathon in Nashville when I was down there for the Packers-Titans game in November....now I'm not so sure. Thanks for putting doubts in my mind.
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I was planning on doing a half-marathon in Nashville when I was down there for the Packers-Titans game in November....now I'm not so sure. Thanks for putting doubts in my mind.
What's the name of the race? I will check out the course and let you know how hilly it is.
And it's not humid in November. It's pretty perfect running weather.
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What's the name of the race? I will check out the course and let you know how hilly it is.
And it's not humid in November. It's pretty perfect running weather.
Yeah I figured weather wouldn't be a concern (barring possible rain). The race link is below. Thanks!!
http://nashvillehalfmarathon.com/
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Warrior chick
My wife and her siblings did Vegas and had a blast. My wife normally only likes competitive over fun races but loved Vegas. I was there but did not run due to injury and feel like I missed out.
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Warrior chick
My wife and her siblings did Vegas and had a blast. My wife normally only likes competitive over fun races but loved Vegas. I was there but did not run due to injury and feel like I missed out.
I may do it again with Glow Jr. next November --- I treated Chick Jr as a graduation present two years ago and will probably do the same for him (just got his grades -- it's official!). You should go back!
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Yeah I figured weather wouldn't be a concern (barring possible rain). The race link is below. Thanks!!
http://nashvillehalfmarathon.com/
Looks like it is uphill the first half and downhill the second half. If I was going to do a hilly course, that is what I would prefer.
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Why run?
I just bang a lot.
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Warrior chick
Goose III is graduating as well. Three down and one to go. I am sure we will end up going back to Vegas for the run one of these years. Congrats to you and Glow on the graduate!!!
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Yeah I figured weather wouldn't be a concern (barring possible rain). The race link is below. Thanks!!
http://nashvillehalfmarathon.com/
I did that many years ago. November weather should be beautiful if it doesn't rain.
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I am a lazy runner, so I hate running in Nashville. Plus it's as humid as Hades down there in the summer.
Fortunately, I escaped the worst of the humidity. I was there for law school, and had clerkships both summers - one in Milwaukee, and one in Pittsburgh. So my experience was basically September through May.
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Lots of DC mentions for favorite runs and (not totally related) it's the fittest city in the US
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/05/18/fittest-city-united-states-america-american-college-sports-medicine/84492256/ (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/05/18/fittest-city-united-states-america-american-college-sports-medicine/84492256/)
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Wednesday fun. Enjoy runners.
15 Funny Signs to Keep You Inspired and Laughing at Your Next Race
http://www.active.com/running/Articles/15-Funny-Signs-to-Keep-You-Inspired-and-Laughing-at-Your-Next-Race.htm?cmp=291&memberid=173200402&lyrisid=45731373
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Wednesday fun. Enjoy runners.
15 Funny Signs to Keep You Inspired and Laughing at Your Next Race
http://www.active.com/running/Articles/15-Funny-Signs-to-Keep-You-Inspired-and-Laughing-at-Your-Next-Race.htm?cmp=291&memberid=173200402&lyrisid=45731373
A few of my personal faves:
(https://media.timeout.com/images/102907861/750/422/image.jpg)
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/44/6e/7a/446e7adaa1e8dab2bbc84edfbcb864e0.jpg)
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/69/96/c2/6996c2ba59ef937df744f37ef62248c5.jpg)
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I used to run a lot and was a track guy in college.
In my 40s I now find running to be extremely painful. I've basically quit running and now I keep my fitness level by cutting firewood by hand and by walking. Avoiding elevators until the 4th floor and parking at the back of the lot does add up quickly.
When I ran road races there was always some jackwagon spectator on their front lawn with a beer playing Bob Segar's "Running Against the Wind."
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I used to run a lot and was a track guy in college.
In my 40s I now find running to be extremely painful. I've basically quit running and now I keep my fitness level by cutting firewood by hand and by walking. Avoiding elevators until the 4th floor and parking at the back of the lot does add up quickly.
When I ran road races there was always some jackwagon spectator on their front lawn with a beer playing Bob Segar's "Running Against the Wind."
But how much of the running issue has to do with rucking around 80lbs of gear in sand and heat?
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The Onion - 'Nuff said. And the location, how appropriate for a Marquette board.
http://www.theonion.com/article/woman-had-no-idea-participating-5k-walk-could-be-s-52935
Woman Had No Idea Participating In 5K Walk Could Be So Unrewarding
NEWS IN BRIEF May 16, 2016
Vol 52 Issue 19 Health · Fitness · Lifestyle
KENOSHA, WI—After participating in the fundraising event for a local charity this past weekend, area woman Ashley Hyland reported to friends and family Monday that she had no idea competing in a 5K walk could be so unrewarding. “This was my first time doing a race like this, so I was completely unprepared for what an insignificant life experience it turned out to be,” said Hyland, adding that she was blindsided by the underwhelming emotions and utter lack of accomplishment she felt as she crossed the finish line of the 5,000-meter race. “It didn’t really hit me until I was out there doing it when I thought to myself, ‘Wow, this is not in any way giving me a sense of purpose or changing my perspective on life.’ I was really taken aback by how little it all meant. And the thing is, it wasn’t just unrewarding for me—it was unrewarding for so many other people given that I raised just a total of $35 for diabetes research.” Hyland added that the experience of completing a few slow laps around the public park with 2,000 or 3,000 other participants was something she would neglect to remember for the rest of her life.
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But how much of the running issue has to do with rucking around 80lbs of gear in sand and heat?
Knees were shot by then due to running. The 80-lb ruck is what did the back in.