Strength Training 07/31/11

This is how I felt after Chest & Back.

I seriously have no strength or something, which is why I'm strength training. Duh.

Someone call the police and lock up those push ups! Those push ups were killer.

KILLER. KILLER. KILLER.

At least I did my best. Now I can forget the rest.

Haha.

So 6 mile run + 1 mile walk to and from park & chest & back.

I was going to do ab ripper but after the halfway point of chest and back, I started seeing double and felt like puking so I think I'll call today's workout done.

Plus my core is pretty sore right now from push ups cuz "I sucked it in." Haha. I should probably do ab ripper. It will only benefit me. Man.

To ab ripper or not?!

PS. I'm cleaning my work out mat now. Its always dripped with sweat and I don't want it to be all germy. Ewe!

Training Run 07/31/11

6 miles DONE! Its not the best but I was somewhat consistent with my times which I'm proud of. In Pasadena my marathon pace was 13:00/m, so I'm anticipating that for my half, I'll be somewhere between 11:30-12:30, or more realistically 12:00-13:00/m. I hope so at least because I would discouraged if I didn't improve on that 13:00 pace. I'm already pretty disappointed that my training runs are at more than 13:00/m. But I have to remember where I came from at almost an hour for a 5k. That is super half assed! Maybe not have half assed, that was just like rolling on the floor status of a joke for a pace and now I did six miles in 1 hr 18 min when before that would have gotten me like 4 miles! You'll never know how far you've come until you look up and look back. I chose to be proud of whatever I can do now because its mine. For me, by me. Need to remember that. I need not to compare myself to others to make myself feel better. Haha. I'm uniquely me!

splits

this is my running route! =]

Ran this in my Lunarglides and I'm still very unsure about these shoes. My right foot felt weird around mile 5, just my right foot tho. Like I could feel EVERYTHING under my foot. But I did appreciate the support and bounciness of the shoe! Maybe I just need to put on my Free runs and do a short run on the dreadmill later just to compare.

I actually walked to the park, did some joke of a stretching (I normally don't stretch since I use my walking to the parking to justify not doing so, but I know I should stretch), ran my six, and cool down was walking back home. I'm not that tired. I know I can keep going but I was getting bored. Haha. I so don't like looping at the lake, and I hate running there in the weekends cuz there are more cars and some drivers are stupid and irresponsible. I'm not tired, but I just wanted to get in doors.

I wore a white long sleeve because it was so cloudy when I left and it was still cloudy when I finished but the shirt was 100% cotton and it was some random shirt I found in my room a guys long sleeve crew neck and guys shirt have a higher neckline. I was dripping sweat and the shirt is now gross. But at least it kept me cool and my skin from not getting any darker. I really need to get an Under Armour shirt with UPF protection. I don't mind my legs getting darker because frankly, I get hot easily and I'm going to get irritable and not run. But I mind my upper body. My skin is really sensitive and its getting really dry and blotchy from running out doors.

Its all good tho! All good!

Now its time to eat some egg white omelet and then research up food for post run recovery and post strength training recovery and just eating in general. Have to get that done for me and for those people who has been patiently waiting for that promised food post. Lols!

PS. I had bitter melon, ampalaya, omelet post run. I am indeed a masochist! It was just bitter melon, tofu, & egg whites. It was really bitter even if I salted the ampalaya prior to get rid of some bitterness. Truth be told, I was craving it! Gonna read up now & P90x later. Its a good and beautiful day, as always!

07/30/11 NO Training Run

My immunity seemingly shut down overnight.

Its pretty bad right now and my muscles are still sore like crazy.

I may have to re-think my, or lack of, a post workout/run recovery strategy.

I bet a lot of it is from not eating properly post and pre-run, but more so post run. Or both. I think both is important but I'm probably not fueling my body for proper recovery which would make sense if my immune system is also affected.

I need to remember that running is "strain" on the body. Is it really a strain or am I making that up? I think its a strain. So it shall be!!! So is working out. And now that I'm back on that P90x boat with a vengeance its like double whammy for my body. I wasn't supposed to run today but since I did very little running in SoCal, I wanted to get a run in. But the way things lined up, or didn't line up, it was meant for a rest day.

Instead of running, I caught up with a friend and it was good for me to talk to someone about working out and running and sharing life together. Its easy to "get lost" in this journey and feel like I'm alone. For me anyway. And talking to my friend helped me to just get my bearings straight and to do this "properly" and not take short cuts or "cheat" in ways that will probably do more harm than good.

For those just getting into a work out regimen or a running routine, resting is a very good thing. Rest days aren't my favorite because I feel like I should be there doing something because I can be, but I know that my body will ultimately benefit from rest. I admit, I'm not the best at taking rest days, so the way that things fell together today is probably a gentle prod from the Man above reminding me to take it easy.

I'm going to take a shower, and maybe a pain killer because that 6AM P90x is starting to catch up to me. I'm focusing on my arms because I haven't been and they need to be toned up!

Strength Training 07/30/11

07/29/11 Training Run

Today was supposed to be a rest day but I wanted to do at least 2 miles. As per the norm right now, no negative split and a really bad 2nd mile. But its okay. I made a couple of mistakes. First one, don't wear cotton shirt under a windbreaker. Its like a freakin' sauna. Second, I got some moisture wicking socks that I think are supposed to be liners but I wore them alone and my foot kept on sliding around my shoe. It wasn't fun.  But its okay. Well, its not. I'm disappointed in my performance, but I mean, like I said... ITS MINE <3<3<3 I don't know anyone in this household that ran 2 miles today and will do P90 before going to bed.

In my head I wanted to do 10 miles. I have a lot of "clearing" in the head to do and how better to do that than run?

If you're in pain, go faster. It won't hurt less but it will end sooner.

Anyway.

My hamstrings are totally beat from yesterdays run. I actually tried to push through hills and just push in general. I've gotten into counting in my head while running because I can't find my mp3 player. So I'll jog 100 paces, walk 50 and repeat. Different variations of too. Whatever whimsy is in my head that day.

So my hamstrings and glutes are totally in pain right now. I'm about to put on my compression socks and lounge. Truth be told, I'm having a hard time pushing myself DURING my runs. Not to run, because I would always want to run, but during my runs. I'm not sure why. Actually, I know why, but I'll keep that to myself. Its just one of those things that are more mental than physical. I can look past the physical pain because theres such thing as pain killers, compression socks and icy hot. Its the mental stuff that gets to me. I think it only happens during my shorter runs because on my long runs I'm too in pain to notice the mental stuff. Haha. But its okay! I have about 50, or less, days before my first ever half! Nor-Cal Marathon! Woot! Then Hollywood Half in April which has a 3 hour time limit which I'm kinda scare of. But well see how that goes. If ever, I'll sell my voucher. LOLs!

I'm going to eat something small and P90x tonight around 9 because I CAN!

I want to sleep like a baby. I'm aiming for 5 miles tomorrow and I want to do it before the heat settles.

That is the picture of my new socks! Its Fila from Ross. But its okay that its Fila cuz it was cheap and it is moisture wicking! Yay! But I guess they are more for lining. They were kinda thin. I want the cushioning in the toes =] But hey, they match! And it came in three pairs and one of them is blue and match my Frees or Faas! All of them are grey =]

Running IS For You Too!

Its amazing how many people confessed after reading "EveryBODY Different" that they are scared of running!

The truth is this, I love encouraging people to try out running! But if you ask me to run with you, I'll probably say no.

Why?!

Because 99.999% of you that told me you were scared of running will probably be a lot better than me! And I've been at it consistently since January (been running on & off for years!), seriously since March!

I'm a very competitive person, I get competitive over Monopoly. We all have some of that in us.  Its not necessarily a bad thing, but we can let it get to us if we don't recognize. I had to get over that "I want to beat that person!" mentality really quick. My friends who helped prod me a long the starting line of this journey are way better than me. In my 11 minute PR mile time (I'll always say this, I did a ten minute mile! It just wasn't "official") they could cover at least 2.5 miles. They are crazy fast.

Was I discouraged? Oh. For. Sure! People will tell you how discouraged I was. I began this running thing running a 5k (3.1 miles) in almost an hour. And yes, I am slow! I remember going into my first "race" event, Pasadena May 2011, that I was so discouraged and nervous. I was seriously thinking about backing out, thinking about purposely breaking my leg, and just random junk. I seriously thought I wasn't going to finish 3.1 miles. Or if I did finish, I would be rolled by in a stretcher. My goal was to finish with 45 minutes. And remember when I started I was hitting like 55 minutes for a 5k. Then I ran that ish and ran my little heart out and just let my runny nose run too and finished at 40:22.

40:22, almost five minutes off my goal time.  Is that slow? Eff yeah thats freakin' slow! And I "trained" for that ish! But the thing is, it maybe slow, but its mine. Look, I played soccer, and I loved it, but soccer is a team sport. And I can hardly call a goal "mine."  The thing about running is that its all mine. And now that I have my 40:22, I can now look forward to my 35:00 and my 30:00 and eventually my <20:00 5k.  You see where I'm getting at? Progress. Its not about winning the race, its about you versus you. You progressing. Its not the fastest that wins, its the one that progresses.

Those people who come up to me and say "I'm too scared because I'm slow," let me let you in a little secret. You, being more fit than I am even after dropping a lot of weight, can probably SMASH my 40:22 time. You can probably do a 5k in 30-35 minutes. There are moments when I don't want to encourage people because I know in my gut they are going to beat my sorry little- albeit curvy thanks to running-  ass!

But I just have to remember that this "race" is mine. That I am no Kara Goucher, but I can do my best to be my own Goucher! That I am no Prefontaine, but I can train my ass off like Pre.

This run, and future runs, will be ran by me, for me!

If you want to start, go run around your neighborhood. Sure, your legs are going to be in pain. Probably think your heart will explode, even when you start slow and take walking breaks. Its normal. I thought my lungs were going to explode when I was running 14-15 minute mile (I'm at 11-13 minutes now if I eat right & hydrate properly) and I seriously thought my legs were going to break at the joints.  Guess what tho? My lungs didnt' explode and my legs are still intact. If anything, I have stronger lungs and stronger legs! Honestly after a month I was addicted to put it bluntly.  Even tho at first I ran because I thought it would help me loose weight (if you remember, I lost 5lbs and plateaued) after than month, I was hooked. I was running because I could. I was running because I wanted endorphins. I was running because my butt was looking nicer and nicer after every step.

Its just those things that changed my motivation. Because frankly, there are probably easier and faster ways to loose weight than running, not to mention easier on your body as well; remember, running won't solely do it for weight lost. But I don't think any of them is as rewarding as finding out that you can in fact run a 5k. And in time a 10k. Then a half (13.1 miles) and then finish a full 26.2 miles.  I'm not saying you have to race in order to run, remember this is for you, by you. You don't have to race at all, but trust me, you would want to =] I thought I wouldn't want to race at all. What place does a 45-55 minute 5k girl have in a run? But gosh darn it, I want to run races. Not to race others, but to race me. To have that satisfaction that "Hey cat! You did it when you said you couldn't!"


So for those who want to take up running, for whatever reason you may have, I'll borrow a little slogan:

Just. Do. It.

07/28/11 Training Run

Ran 4 miles. More like walked. But whatever, I was out there! Where were you?! Haha. Just kidding. I can't find my mp3 player and ran lonely today. I had a good time listening to my body tho but hearing me breathe is ewe!

I'm not giving up on the Lunarglides. Still ran with them. Was tempted to put on the Frees, but I'm hoping Lunarglides will be my "long distance" shoes. I'll do my long run (6 miles) this weekend with the LG, then next weekend (6 miles) with my Frees and see what happens.

I'm not too worried about time, even tho I still couldn't/didn't manage a negative split this run. I started out at 12:xx at mile 1 and finished mile 4 at 15:xx. That is such awful times, I feel like I'm doing Pre a disservice, but its okay. I'm not Pre and this is me for me! To think It would take me 55 minutes to do a 3 miler before and now I'm at 4. Thats progress. Its not where I want to be, but its better! And better is better! Haha.

Thats about it. I'm kinda getting anxious about this half, but I've come anticipate that and embrace it! I'm so looking forward to it! I'm kinda hoping they open up at least a 10k, 5k is better, so that I can convince people to do it. Its hard to convince non-runners to do a half with me. But its okay.

Work in a hour then P90x when I get home! I want to be fly like a G6!

PS. Charles gave me a mix that his cousin made and its freakin' epic working out music! I was feeling it during P90x yesterday. The thing is, its an hour long and my 4 gb mp3 player would need some extensive cleaning! LOL! But its awesome.

PPS. Very little things feel better than peeling off two layers of sports bra after putting in a ton of work. Its like sticky sweat being lifted out of your body... beast!!!

07/27/11 Training Run

I wanted to do 5 miles but my legs wouldn't let me.

I'm wondering if switching between neutral shoes (Free Runs) and stability shoes (Lunarglides) have anything to do with the pain.

I've only put 5 miles on my LG as opposed to like a million on my frees, so the shoe isn't broken in yet, but I'm missing the arch support of the Frees.

Like I mentioned before, I want the Lunarglides to work because they look fly. And I have the LG 3 on the way! Black & pink is a sick color way. Not the black, pink, & blue, just black & pink! However, if Frees and the FAAS 300 (neutral shoes) are what my feet like, I'm just going to cancel those LG3 and customize a 2nd set of Frees.

Or maybe its all mental. I can't seem to get a negative split in the park since I'm looping and lapping as opposed to one giant loop. I manage to get negative splits when I ran in the neighborhood. I need to pick up runners pepper spray tho. Stupid ghetto as folks who hold up people on gunpoint in broad daylight. Blah!!!

Anyway, my time was bad. Mile 1 was 13:55 and mile 2 was 15:52.

-_-

I'm so sad about the time, but like I said my feet were hurting. You know the side of your calves? They are hurting like a mofo. I usually wear compression socks to sleep but my only pair right now is dirty (washing em) and my other pair is I have no clue where the f'ck it is cuz I didn't get a tracking number.

But anyway, whats done is done. I'll wake up early tomorrow and try to get a run in. I need to hop back on the calendar, I don't even know what I was supposed to do for today. I was hoping for five miles cuz I didn't get to do my long run this weekend.  That unplanned trip to SoCal threw me off, but it was super worth it! It helped talking to Marathon Mark! He said I'll be okay and just to make sure to log miles and build endurance. Not to worry about time. I'm not worried since the half marathon has a 4 hour time limit or an 18:xx per mile pace. I do have a target time, its < 3:30 so sub 3:30. I'll work that out to negative splits when time draws closer (52 more training days!). He also said that I'll probably get by without too much training and then when I do my 2nd half, I'll get cocky and won't train and then I'll suffer. LOLs! But he got me excited about running. I think training is a big part of it for me since I love endorhpins, and the race events (expo included) are just cherry on top. I'm going to hit up (try to!) the SF Marathon expo and also the SJ Rock & Roll expo! Free swag & inspiration baby!

Anyway, yeah. That was my crummy run today. Or more like walk.

I also got bit by an ant in the nape of my neck and it was a big ugly ant and it hurts!

Time to wash all my workout clothes and wash myself and look forward to tomorrows workout!

Anyway, here is a GPOY cuz I got more Nike gear in. And yes, I bought into the whole Nike thing. I seriously should buy stock in Nike.

Funny story about those Nike compression shorts. I bought them on clearance and got em in the mail. Tried em on, they fit fine. Didn't actually use them for a week and now they are too big to be compression. Is that a good or bad thing? They make nice shorts tho and lining for when I bike or wear shorts with no lining. They are the Pro-Combat shorts. I have also learned to appreciate my thighs because I put those suckers to work. Besides my calves, my thighs are gaining a lot of definition and I've embraced them. If I could "spot" treat fat without getting lipo, I think my legs would be like muscular. I'm looking forward to that fat on my legs going bye bye! Strong calves are awesome! Ten years from now, I'm going to be carrying my kids upstairs and no chicken legs is going to be able to carry/drag five kids up stairs! 40, 50 years from now, I'm going to be carrying my grandkids up stairs to our space ship so we can vacation in Mars. And my thighs will still be putting in work. So yeah. No where near where I want to be in terms of my body, but progress is progress. And that, my friends is what its all about =] And yes, those spiel about kids and grand kids is a paraphrase from a Nike ad. Told you I bought into the hype!

EveryBODY Different

By no way am I a dietitian, a nutritionist, a personal trainer, nor do I consider myself knowledgeable about all things concerning health.  But what I do know comes from advice of those who knew before me and application of those advices and seeing what worked and didn't work for me. By no means am I anywhere near my ideal body (if you want to know its runners lean!) but I have no doubt that I can get there =] If you don't want to read the entire thing, its fine, just at least burn off 1 or 2 calories by scrolling all the way to the bottom of this post, the bottom line should help you. I'm also putting this right after telling you to scroll down cuz it has a greater chance of being read, know this as well: the way you look will not fix your insecurities. That statement will be left at that, just take it for what it is. You can add "not a shrink" to not a nutritionist or a personal trainer =]

I recently saw a bunch of family and friends in a party, I haven't seen them in at least 3 months. People have been asking what the hell I do. They all said one or more of these things

• "You lost a lot of weight!"
• "How much did you loose?"
• "What do you do?"
• "What do you eat?"
• "You're disappearing!"
• "I want to do what you're doing!"

There were also a few other random things I chose to leave out, they were weird comments 8-)

I'm going to be one of those people who say this, there is no magic pill, its pure diet & exercise!

Lets break it down yo! Grab popcorn (no butter) and get comfy!

Exercise
I, obviously, do a lot of running. But what you need to know is that running won't drop your weight for you. Haha. A lot of people think running is a cure all for weight loss, but from MY experience, it isn't! When I started running, I lost 5lbs and then didn't drop anymore for a month. It was like thats it?! And half of those was probably water weight from sweating so much!  So why the hell do you run?! I run because I love, I mean LOVE, the feeling of endorphins after my runs. Its crazy addicting. I also love seeing progress! Its one of those mental benefits of running. Running, is after all, just you and the road. You push yourself, you lift those damn legs, and move. Its for you, by you! That is why I run.  Why won't running help you loose weight? Running alone won't help you because its an aerobic exercise. Its good for your heart, its good for your lungs but really aside from your legs, you're not building muscles (remember: muscles burn more calories than fat). A lot of people say I'll go running to justify what they eat. There lies the problem. Remember its diet (which means what you eat, not cutting back on what you eat. It just means what you eat) AND exercise! So really, the approach most people take to running/exercising is a means to justify what they eat. Which is okay if you're trying to maintain weight, which I'm not, I'm trying to cut weight and gain muscle. And most of us is trying to cut weight. So do I attribute some of my weight loss to running. Most definitely! I do, but its not just running alone.  I also attribute a lot of mental benefits to running, but thats another blog entry =]

Like I said above, aside from your legs, running doesn't really help you build muscle. And unless you change up your running surface (trail or road) you're probably just working the same muscle groups all the time and still not building a lot of muscle since its constant strain on one set of muscle groups. So aside from running, I also do some strength training in the form of P90x!!! I love love love P90x! Its one of those things we all cringe at in the beginning but you get into it and you feel the burn and you feel bad ass! Especially since I'm a girl, I get all proud and feel all bad ass when I finish and finish well! P90x is an anaerobic exercise. I'm not going to go to deep into the difference between aerobic & anaerobic exercises, I'll let this website do the talking. For the link phobic, its like a hybrid vehicle, first they rely on the electricity part then when they hit the faster speeds, they rely on gas. For the most part, we rely on oxygen (aerobic) to fuel our cells, but when intensity is bumped the oxygen is not enough and the body relies on other chemical reactions to fuel itself- which creates lactic acid which is why we experience muscle fatigue. Obviously, P90x is a high intensity type of training. Any weight training regimen is intense and requires a lot of energy making it anaerobic.  I don't think you really had to know the difference. I just got carried away! Haha. Why is P90x necessary? Really, any strength training is necessary. First of all, it helps build muscles and when talking body, more muscle is always better! muscle > fat is always a good thing! Plus muscles help pull everything in. Weight may not change for a while, but you will drop inches and its better to go by inches rather than weight. A pound of muscle takes up less space than a pound of fat =]

So over all, the exercise part is running (cardio) & P90x (strength trianing). A good balance, 30 minutes of each is good, but really, people are lazy (including me sometimes!) so if you can only do one, strength train! Build those muscles and let them burn fat for you!

Diet
I'm going to start by saying this: diet doesn't mean you change your food intake, diet is simply what you intake. Diet has such a negative connotation, like I'm going on a "diet." In reality, you're already on one, it just depends if its a good or bad one.

Now that that is out of the way, I'm going to say one more thing: I'm on a very low calorie diet and I'm running and strength training at the same time. Albeit, I did cheat over this weekend when I was in SoCal, but thats why I'm so strict when I'm at home. With that said, here are the basic specs of what I do:

"Cat's Not Recommending this Diet" Diet

• 1200 - 1800 calories a day; 6 meals 200-300 calories a day
• The ratio I try to stick to: 50% protein, 30% carbs (cuz I run, I would generally do 20% & add the other 10% to protein) 20% fat.
• Food List: eggs (mostly white), Ezekiel toast, cheese, 2 Balance Bars (2 meals right there), turkey breast, chicken breas, lettuce, brocolli (really any non starchy vegetables; but brocolli is my go to! High fiber, low GI!). Thats it. I have a boring food in take at home =]
• Water or Green Tea
• One day of cheating!

Macro-Nutrient Ratios
A lot of people rely on counting calories to control their diet.  Thats cool and all but think of food as fuel. You can consume 1200 calories of cake for an entire day but your body won't be fueled. Why? Your body is fueled by chemical reactions that uses carbs, proteins, & fats! A slice of cake will have fats (unhealthy ones) and carbs, but very little protein. So its also important to look at the macro-nutrients. Depending on what you want to try to do (like for me its cut weight & build muscle- low carb, high protein- while still providing enough energy to fuel my runs, which is hard cuz carb is fuel for runs but I really try to cut back on carbs for weight loss- which some say is unnecessary but I love bread the only way for me to do it is DO OR DIE!), ratios is something that you should look at. Generally speaking I believe 40% carbs, 30% protein, & 30% fat is what is the norm. It took me a long time to get ratios down, and to some extent, I still don't have it down, but once you have a basic understanding of ratios, you can start to manipulate your ratios, i.e. carb cycling! Carb cycling is something I tried to do but had a hard time doing since I'm so anti carbs, but I started doing it sub consciously, I won't talk about it too much till I get my head wrapped around it solidly, but it works! For those who are trying to loose weight and is putting in work in exercising (both kinds) I would just go with the 40/30/30 ratio. Once you figure out what your goals are, you can start to manipulate your ratios.

Thats it. I can break it down specifically to what I eat but generally speaking, thats how my diet consists like. I know a lot of people are asking for specific foods, but seriously if you ask my sisters or my parents who are at home, thats really the majority of what I eat. Preparations may be different, but I stick to those meats, veggies, bread, etc.

DISCLAIMER I don't recommend this diet because at my weight and height, my basal metabolism is almost 2000. That means to do nothing but lie in bed all day and keep my body functioning, I burn 2000 calories. I'm consuming 1200 calories a day and so by that calculation I'm already down 800 calories, take into consideration that I strength train and/or run everyday, means I'm really down on calories. This may seem bad ass, (& to be honest I sometimes think I have an eating disorder. Haha, I don't! I'm just really careful cuz I know I eat not so cleanly when I'm out of town, & I'm out of town a lot) but its dangerous. Do you see that flashing *DANGER* sign? Its there!

If its dangerous, why do you do it? Here is the beauty of exercising and "getting in touch" with your body. You learn to read your body. You learn to listen to your body and its demands. You learn to know what works for you and what doesn't.  I'm still learning this eating thing as well because I'm a very lazy eater. I don't want to complicate things and I'm sure theres variety of foods I can eat aside from turkey and chicken and turkey, but I like to keep it simple. I don't want to think too much since if I get information overload, I'll give up. It may also seem that I'm super duper strict food police, but I'm really not. I can be flexible when the occasion calls for it. If theres an occasion, I'll eat what I'm served. Like right now, I just got back form SoCal, land of good food a plenty, so you know I"m really strict on what I'm eating right now. I'm probably going to cut back on carbs some more unless its the day before a long run. And I'm going to bump up the intensity/duration of my strength training/runs. Generally speaking tho, what I listed above is what you'll see me eat. And it seems like its really little food, but I'll eat a ton of broccoli, like two crowns of broccoli. Or a big plate of salad. Its just learning what your body needs. For example, I learned through trial and error and learning how to read my body that if I have a long run the next day, I'll eat a bit more carbs the previous day (ratio manipulation!) and if I know I'm going to be in a rest day I'll ease up on the carbs and just load up on veggies. Its things like that.

So, if you don't recommend your diet what do you recommend?
Learning to read your body and your tummy and what it needs is probably the most important thing anyone can learn as opposed to being told what to eat. In a way, I believe we all know what to eat and what to avoid, we don't need to be told that. I will put up resources on this, but theres so many conflicting information in the internet that really, I would advice to read up, find something that you think is do-able for you. Do it. If it works, keep on doing it. If it doesn't find another thing. If it STOPS working, by that time, you'll probably be able to read your body. Like I said, I'm still learning, and by no means do I consider myself a nutritionist. PS. I'll update another post with resources. I'm sifting through a ton of them right now. LOLOLS! I will however say this, don't go by the food "plate" pyramid thing that the gov't released. Its bs!



EveryBODY is different. This is what worked for me, since a lot of you asked. I can go into so much details (like this isn't detailed right? I haven't even talked about my supplements! lol) but I think this is already wordy enough. I'm still on this journey, its really life long, and would be more than happy to help anyone out.  But I'm letting you all right now, what works for me, might not work for you at all. A lot of people just asked what I do, and heres my answer.

If you don't want to read the whole thing, just read the bottom line:

 eat clean, train dirty & keep at it.

07/27/11 Strength Training

Getting back in the groove of P90x!

I did Biceps & Back plus Ab Ripper today!

Ab Ripper is a killer but I love the way it feels after. Like I'm about to puke with every breathe I take.

Motivation? I had a cheese roll post workout with my protein shake!

I also took double the dosage of jack3d and it helped get me through it. Still tingly right now, hopefully it will pass in an hour at most. Last time, I was tingly all day. I haven't had caffeine in a while.

I really want a stronger core. I find myself slouching when I run after a certain miles and a stronger core will help me not slouch. I know that this will benefit running and vice versa so I really want to keep at it.

I won't weight myself for two weeks either because I just got back from LA where I hardly watch what I eat. I still did but I gave myself soom room for nom nom I don't have up here.

Yeah! Loved it. I can't wait to work myself back up to 10lb weights then 15... I think I'll probably top at 20. I want to be lean, not bulky.

07/26/11 Training & Random Run

Ran 2 miles just to be out there and running through awesome Glendale!

I wish I lived here!!! I could get used to running by/through the Americana and getting coffee hook ups from a friend who works at Starbucks! But I had chocolate milk and had it mid run, which didn't help my 2nd mile at all. But it was yummy organic chocolate milk!

Shoe report! I ran with my Lunarglides 2, and granted I haven't broken them in, I still really prefer my Frees over them. And the LG3. I think its just cuz I've put so much miles on my frees and I'm used to the arch support of the frees. I have high arches which I think goes well with the arch support of the Frees. My calves, the side of them, hurt in the LG2. I'm sure it will go away when I use em some more but they hurt! Enough to force me to walk em out. I'll keep at it tho, Lunarglides are fly lookin' shoes!

Headed home today. Kinda bummed about it since i love where I'm at right now, but its totally okay. I'll be back and running SoCal in no time! If I lived here I would go crazy running. Nice weather, sweet neighborhood, Portos near by, security at Americana if i want to run around that area... I'm in love with Glendale! It comes close to Pasadena!

07/25/11 Training Run

Ran in Glendale! I loved it! LOVE LOVE LOVE it!

Granted I haven't ran in a while and this was really turtle pacing it.

I ran in my LG2 and kinda pushed it and didn't stretch and my calves were feeling it, but I also haven't ran since Friday morning and been eating really unhealthy.

Ran with my friend Mark, who is getting married THIS WEEKEND, congrats Mark & Camille!!! He will be known as Marathon Mark and he pushed me well considering I had a bagel as my pre run food. But its okay, it was fun and its good to have motivation from outsiders from time to time. Someone who understands! I can't wait till he visits with Camille and run again! I'm going to be stronger & faster!

Anyway. I'm running again tomorrow! Should be fun! Then head home and just knock out.

7/22/11 Training Run

I admit defeat.

I did something to my right achilles tendon and its hurting like a mofo.

If you look at my splits, you can tell it acted up after mile 2 because the last 1.5 miles = hella slow.

First time for everything.

Ice time then wrapping it and hopefully can be okay for tomorrow or round 2 tonight. I'm determined to make up for this bull.

I'm also sore from P90x yesterday and can't "pendulum" my arms without something hurting. My chest hurts a lot and my triceps and my back, so pretty much everything I worked out yesterday. Haha. Also got like 3 hours of sleep and had a really ugly dream where everyone I don't want to see was in it. Like seriously?!

Anyway, I did my best for this run and I'm okay that it wasn't my best over all, but it was my best given the circumstances. I don't know much people who say they went out there and covered 3.5 miles. I'm sure a lot of people did more but in my circle, I'm probably the only one ::proud::

07/21/11 Strength Training

Guess who did P90x after what I believe is more than a month off?!

ME!

Okay, I did a couple of half assed sessions here and there, but damn. My ass is kicked right now. Super bad. Running ate up what little muscles I have!

I had to go back to my bands and I barely used my 8lb weights. When I stopped, I was on 8/10 lbs depends which one I'm doing. But now, I'm on bands. Damn it!!! In retrospect, I should have started form the beginning. I did chest, shoulders, & triceps. I should have just done chest & back, like start over totally. Over ambitious I guess.

My left hand is also significantly weaker than my right hand which super sucks!!!

Anyway, all this "fail" is just motivating me to get back on the P90x bandwagon. I'm determined to make it work along with running. It seems so counter productive but P90x will give me a stronger core which will help my form in running and running will help me my P90x by working out my legs because I hate doing legs in the P90x. Haha!

But I think I'll randomly do free weights with my left hand. Its really weak. I'm kinda sad about it. Those one arm push ups were killer.

Anyway, yeah. I'll have my 3.5 miler later after work whenever it cools down a bit.  Looking forward to that. But seriously... my ass is so kicked from this P90x session. I feel bummed that I stopped for that long, but like I said, motivated and ready to kick some more ass.

PS. I can't wait for my GU to get here. I bulked ordered em on subscription from Amazon and they came out to be $0.86 per GU. I pay $1.30 at the store and I use about three a week. Or I try to use 3 a week. Limit myself to those 3 and so I get a shipment of 24 GU every 2 months. If that doesn't work, I'll have to do it monthly. But I figured 3 a week that 24 should last me 8 weeks, roughly two months. Hopefully it will work. But I "can't" run with GU. I can, but I feel the lack of energy. It might be mind games, but I really doubt it is because I can still run, but I can feel a lack in my performance and lack of energy. But whatever! I'm glad its coming supposedly tomorrow and I get my combat shorts from Nike today!

PPS. My weight is fluctuating like crazy, but my size is on a decline so I'm not too worried. I'm going to stop using the scale for a month because that fluctuation is driving me crazy even if I know that I'm dropping sizes.

07/20/11 Training Run

Run was alright. I covered about 3 miles but I only record/log on the Nike+ the scheduled training distances. Today was 2.

I totally can't get over smaller runs. I think I'm starting to like long runs better. Or maybe its this nasty heat wave that  makes short runs "not worth it."

Finished 2 miles with a split of 11:xx for mile 1 and 14:xx for mile 2. Look at that shitty split!

But whatever, its supposed to be 2 miles or cross.  I just don't know what to do besides run because the bike here is too tall and I don't have a pool or anything. So I consider the first mile "running" and my 2nd mile "cross" because I walked that shiz. I wanted to swim across the lake so I can get home faster but according to Municipal Code 34C19 or something, the lake is not for swimming.

::sigh::

I'm tired too, this heat wave sucks and now I have to go to work. Burn more calories anyway! And get paid! Haha. My bank account is increasingly happy. And I just bought some Nike Combat shorts to wear under my non lined shorts. And take care of this ugly leg s tan I'm developing. Next up is some Under Armor gear to prevent me from burning!

Those 10.5 miles are crazy heat. And I don't log all of my covered distances! The widget for daily mile cycles every monday and this run includes my 5 miler on Sunday. Sundays are my start okay daily mile!

07/19/11 Training Run

This run SUCKED!

Time wise anyway. I'm just glad that I got out there and ran.

48 minutes for a 3.5 miler is horrible for me. That is horrible!

I also didn't manage to negative split and probably pushed it too hard on my first mile, but whatever. I won't dwell on it.

Right now, my main concern is to finish the half marathon and the full marathon. I'm not too concerned with my time as long as its generally improving because as I drop more weight, I know that it will help my time. And in my future marathons, I'll improve.

I should have ran earlier. I think if I got out when I wanted to at 8 am, it would have been better weather wise. It got really hot really fast for being cloudy and windy during the beginning of my run.

But like I said, its okay. I won't dwell on it.

Generally, from the big picture, my time is improving leaps and bounds and I'm dropping anywhere from 3-5 lbs a week, which is fast, but I swear I'm listening to my body. So I'm satisfied. I need to step up my "daily" vitamin game tho since I know I haven't been getting all my nutrients in.

Anyway, heres a picture and a note:

cat, next time your suicidal cell phone decides that it wants to die and jumps out of your pocket while running across a crosswalk and the "walk" sign has been flashing a while, let it die. its not worth the heart attack. my phone is hella tore up, but it works. however, my heart rate won't go down. In SUV vrs cat, SUV will win.

PS. Good thing I was able to cancel one order of my GU. For some reason my bank was being stupid and with held payment and I wasn't sure what to do so I re-ordered because Amazon said payment didn't go through. Turns out payment went through and I had 2 cases of GU coming way way!!! Thats 48, and thats a lot! Thats a 4 month supply! I know I would use em all eventually, but if I had all 48 at one go, I might have been tempted to frost an entire cake with it! Chocolate Outrage is outrageous!

Random Update!

I already ate breakfast and drank water and on a whim decided to weigh myself.

Even with eating something heavy like oatmeal, and drank a lot of water, I've dropped 3 pounds.

Last time I reported was Wednesday, so its a good reasonable progress and I know I'm under calories a lot but I'm listening to my body. I'm fueling when I know I need it and restricting when I know I can.

I'm so suprised I dropped weight because I had Redlobster on Saturday and Wingstop on Thursday. I know I didn't drop just water weight because I've been hydrating like crazy (making it a point for clear skin) and whoo!

Progress is fun.


Also in retrospect, that 1:07 time for the 5 miler is really good. When I first started running, I would do a 50-60 minute 5K, which is 3 miles. So to do a 5 miler in 1:07 and knowing that was easy pace and I was distracted due to texting is amazing. I will give myself credit for that one! =]

07/17/11 Training Run

Five miles!

Five freakin' miles!!!

Not that its the best time, 1 hour 7 minutes, but its five miles!

It was supposed to be a slow long distance run and it was just that. I just get eager in the beginning and my splits show it:

That last mile is bothering me even looking at it. I should have finished way stronger than that. But I know I was texting at that point. I was bored and something had texted and struck up a conversation. That gap between the first mile at 11:29 and 14:09 for the last mile is just ugly. I need to work on pacing and focusing on negative splits. Not that I'm trying to beat someone or race something just me vrs me, improving myself! But I'm still happy that I got out there and finished five miles.

I ran a six miler some time ago and it took me almost 2 hours. If I calculated my time and distance right, this was pre sportswatch gps, it took me 1.45 minutes to run 6 miles.  So to say that I finished a 5 mile run in 1:07 minutes is a major improvement.

Next week, I'll try not to text during my last mile. That might help shave that time off and most definitely I'll do some of my shorter runs as tempo runs to help with speed and really learn to pace on my longer runs.

Over all tho, I covered a good distance. I did about 7 miles but I only time the ones for training.  I walked to the park and after my 5 miles walked to the nearby plaza to pick up some chocolate milk and walked home. So yeah, lots of distance today!

I'm so excited to be in this journey. I really am. It gives me a big sense of peace. And I love being able to see where I am physically and push it.Not to the point of death, but to be able to see progress and to be able to push it feels amazing.

At this point its not about being skinny, but about being strong. About proving myself wrong. About improving.

Its a journey I wouldn't trade for anything else.

Training Run 07/14/11

I just realized I'm pretty redundant with the dates, Blogger posts them for me and I title with them too. Oh well =]

Run went well! I PR'ed my 5k which is good for me since this route is pretty hilly.

I'm beginning to like running in the lake although I'm going to have to loop a bunch of times when I increase miles because I can pee when I have to! There are actual facilities in the park. I almost killed my entire water bottle today. Considering all I had was a GU before my run (about to eat a protein shake, or maybe wait on that till after I P90x) I needed that water. Granted I didnt' drink all of it, most of the time I spit it out.

anyway, I know I covered at least five miles today since I don't log my walk to and from the park. I partially logged my walk home and hit a mile so I know mile wise I covered at least 5! Thats significant to me cuz at least I know I can survive that much you know.

I know that as I push miles farther and farther, I'm also pushing my wall farther and farther. To be honest after mile 3 I kinda want to give up but thats slowly changing and changing. My muscles are usually hurting but as soon as I push through, they "stop." I'm trying to see where my mental wall is. Physically, I'll be okay for the half marathon because they have a walking pace of more than 30 minutes per mile for the half. I just mentally need to be ready. I'll see if I pushed that wall back, I have a 5 miler this Saturday! I'm excited and nervous for it. Not sure why since I've ran 6 miles before, but this time its like part of "training" as opposed to just for fun I guess. But yay!!!

I also need to adjust food intake. Part of me feels bad ass that I'm burning all these calories and NOT even hitting 1,000 calories a day, but I know that I'm probably damaging something in me. So I need to stop. As much as I want to drop weight as quickly as possible I need to be smart. Veggies won't hurt me and its low calorie, low GI, and will fuel me. Keep that in mind cat!!!

07/13/11 Training Run

According to my calendar, its supposed to either be a 2 mile run or cross. I want to do P90x later on today so I just ran a mile this morning to get me used to waking up and running early.

I'm not sure if I mentally get satisfied on my long runs and use that to justify my choppy, smaller, runs but I really want to kick up miles. I'm sure that after this training is done, I'll probably be back to my regular three miles and one long run a week. Hopefully I improve on that. I just don't want to be satisfied with where I'm at. By saying that, I guess I know I'm not, I just want to be motivated.

My legs were feeling that 4 miles from yesterday tho. I really want an ice bath but I can't because I don't have a bath tub. Would have to use my parents bath room and I'm a stickler for clean tubs and I don't know if its clean. I guess I'll clean it. But seriously, my muscles (hammies, glutes, & quads) hurt. Surprisingly my calves are okay and the ankle pain from yesterday isn't as prominent. I wonder what happened yesterday. with the ankle pain.

Anyway, early runs are good and I feel mentally better splurging a bit on breakfast after a run. Instead of  just cheese and toast, I had some corned beef. Not exactly the healthiest, but it was yummy! It wasn't a lot tho. And yesterday was super low calorie wise. So low even I know it was bad. I had cheese and toast for breakfast, didn't eat till I ran around 4 and all I "ate" was a GU. For dinner had fish and peas and carrots. Thats it.

Today will be good and I have a long weekend so I'm looking forward to my 3.5 tomorrow and 5 this weekend!

PS. I weighed in today. Dropped 5 pounds since the last time I weighed myself. Which I have no rememberance of when that was, 2-3 weeks ago I believe A lot more to go, but those 5 pounds is 5 pounds less than what I have to 'carry' on my half marathon! And this is with practically no P90x. If I kick up P90x again, I'll probably get rid of weight faster. I knew my P90x was going to take a backseat to marathon training/running but now, I want to level it up a bit. No cutting back on running so just devoting A LOT more time to P90x! #motivated

Battle Wounds!

When I was looking at my feet after my run, I saw my first ever blood blister!!! I was so happy that I have a blood blister from running. HAHAHAHAHA.

Its my first ever running battle wound blood blsiter!

Thats about it. I'm just trippen out about how the back of my left heel almost looks like a finger!

And the fact that I have a blood blister!!! From RUNNING! I also want to pop it but I just read to leave smaller ones in tact. Especially blood blisters to prevent bacteria from getting into my blood stream! How BAD ASS is that? I can get a bacterial infection in my blood stream if I pop my blood blister I got from RUNNING!!! BAD ASS!!! Can you die from that? That would be a pretty epic way to go! Dying from something you love doing!!!

#beastmode #turnonyourbadassswitch

07/12/11 Training Run

Ran my 4 miles that I was supposed to do over the weekend.

Feels good finishing it under an hour, which I know is super slow and penguin pace compared to everybody else out there, but its for me, by me and I'm proud of what I finished and am looking forward to improving.

I need to work on pacing and hopefully next long run I'll get a negative split, a faster 2nd half than the 1st half which shows discipline in conserving energy and using kicks.

Maybe I'll focus on that when I keep on increasing miles. I just really want to finish the half and my full next year. I'm so excited for that full! Sometimes, okay often times, I ask myself what I got myself into, then I run and train and have my chocolate protein shake after and all is well.

During today's run, my ankles started hurting.  I'm not sure why but even now they still hurt a bit. I'm about to wrap them and maybe ice them.  Tying my laces tighter helped a bit but it still hurt.  I also learned that I can't run in blazing sun.  I have a farmers tan already form my tech tee and I also burn through the tech tee so I'm probably just as red as my tech tee. It just sucks getting darker, and I have total aversion to getting darker. I just look weird dark because I burn then tan blotchy and then I just look dirty. I'm really surprised that I've kept up with running out doors for this long because ask anyone that knows me, I hate getting dark. On other non skin related news,  my knee isn't tweaking as much which is super duper good.

Anyway, that is today's run report!

67 days left till the half!

PS. I'm debating adding another half on October. I don't want to register till after my first half on September but if I complete both, I get a Nor-Cal series medal! ::ponders::

PPS. I'm learning that when your normal distance starts feeling crummy and mundane, the only way to fix that is to run farther. Increasing mileage is both scary and rewarding from my point of view. The only hard part is I hate running in circles and prefer one giant loop in whatever distance and its easier with the Nike+GPS watch, but still hard to know where to go if you don't know the area that well. Just have to stick to where I'm familar with just incase something happens.

PPPS. Here is a picture after my run. I'm seriously too hyper for having nothing but cheese and toast and a GU the entire day. I haven't eaten since that GU before my run. I need to fuel up!

go, go endorphins!

Keep Going

Not sure if its cuz I didn't run Saturday or Sunday and only did one mile yesterday, but my motivation for running seemed to significantly drop over the weekend. From LEGGO! to Hell no! Maybe its the lack of endorphins and I'm going through withdrawals, but wouldn't that mean I would want to run like fifty miles? Or endorphins is like taking Red Bul as a chaser? Its a downer/upper? You want it but since you're stressed or not on your "happy drug," you just can't get up and get it? Haha. All this endorphin talk is really just excuse. I love the feeling of it, but really in the end, its up to me to get out and do it.

My fears and anticipation for the half this September and my full next year is on rage right now. Its crazy. But I've come to accept and understand that these feelings will come and go and that running has always been for me by me. Not for anyone else.

I'm probably just anxious. I love how I feel when I'm running when I'm working out when I'm out there doing something anything for my body. And thats something that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world right now. 

Been going through a few non-running related things that has taken its toll on my mind and sometimes those things affect us physically as well. Just need to recognize that and move on from that. Running has also been my escape, my way to deal, with stress and I don't think I can be sane without running.

I'll be okay tho.  I know myself well enough that my anxiety will turn into excitement again and will light a fire for my motivation. Those little spurts of progress always motivates me and makes me smile. I don't think anyone understands the running part of running. Everyone seems to see me and see the "weight loss" aspect of running. But running has very little to do with that, the weight loss part is from watching what I eat. Running just ensures I'm always on a calorie deficit. But anyway, the running part of running is really what motivates me. Beating PRs, the mental drive after mile four and just being out there and doing something for me when for the longest time, I've been doing things for others, that is what I run for.

Cat, keep going. Keep going.


Just because you don'tw ant to doesn't mean  you can't. Keep going.

When The Bad Ain't So Bad- 11!!!

I'm paying the consequences of party hardy from last night and had a hard time running. I was going to not go at all because today was supposed to be a four miler.

I decided to just go and do at least a mile. I was just going to walk the entire thing. I also had no mp3 player and I didn't eat real food today (2 croissants and cheese, thats it) and is dehydrated... I just wasn't feeling it.

I actually walked and texted in the beginning of my run.

Then with nothing to distract me I just decided to run for a mile so I ran it.

And PR'ed my mile!

From 11 minutes and 57 seconds a few days ago to 11 minutes flat!

Thats 57 seconds off with walking and texting breaks?! i know I can get it to 10 minutes and 30 seconds!

What is even more amazing is that it wasn't PUKE pace either. I was still able to breathe properly, no side stitches, didn't feel like I was gonna die and still had energy to burn after!

So really in the beginning, I had a hard time getting out there. I got home around 1 and was supposed to run around 3, didn't run till 8 stepped outside in my shorts, too cold. Went back in lay down a few seconds put on my sweat pants and got out there anyway.

Was just going to be content in walking and PR'ed anyway!

So really, the bad wasn't that bad.

I know its only a mile, and its 3 miles short of my scheduled 4 miler, but I'm glad I got out there anyway and PRed!

I can do my four miles tomorrow. Then this Sunday, I increase to 5 miles for two Sundays then 6 miles... oh man. Increasing miles always scares me but its little progress like this that makes it all worth it.

PS. I'm so glad its 11. I love the number 11. First of all, I was born on the 11th and today is the 11th of June and I know a lot of people born on the 11th of any month and I just always really loved my birthday. So the fact that it was 11 minutes flat really, really, really made my day!

Running On E

No, not that kind of E, the "E"mpty kind of "E."

I woke up at six am and I wanted to go on a six am run, but the park didn't open till 8. None the less, I actually didn't run till around nine and didn't even end up running in the park.

I don't like eating before I run. I guess I'm just not used to it. I either run right when I get up or two hours after my last meal, at least two hours and that meal is a small meal. I just don't like running with food in my belly.  So to fuel up, I usually take one GU 15 minutes before I run and thats GU, and my water bottle of fluids, is usually enough for any runs 6 miles or less. I may take an extra one along if I'm hitting 5-6 miles. I haven't hit that distance with my Nike Sportswatch GPS, but those runs take me at least like 1.5-2 hours, so I need my GU. I'm such a penguin pacer, but I notice my endurance & speed are improving surely but slowly.

Anyway, today, I found out I have no more GU!!! TRAGEDY! I know I needed to eat something so I had 1/3 of a Balance Bar. Mistake! It upset my tummy. I'm really not used to solid foods before running. No matter how small I guess. I need to stock up on GU because I even waited an hour after I ate 1/3 of that bar and it still upset my tummy. Now maybe its mind games, but I noticed the difference!

I also underestimated the sun. It was really hot and I have a farmers tan from my tech tee and sunglasses! Its gross! If I didn't like running as much as I did, I would stop. I hate getting darker because I don't actually tan evenly, I tan very blotchy and it looks like I didn't wash my face or shower in a while. Papaya soap time!

That was today's run. I'm bummed that I didn't get to finish my three so depending on how the rest of the day goes, I might go out again and do my 3 later on in the day!

PS. I also need to wash my workout & running clothes. Working out/running in 85-95 degree weather makes clothes super sweaty. I seriously lie down on a towel after my runs and just let it soak up sweat. Haha. Its gross in a rewarding way!

PPS! Despite the no GU issue, I PR'ed my mile today! Well, I've done ten minute mile once but it wasn't Nike+ official so I don't count it. Considering the heat and stepping out of my routine, I'm glad to PR. Haha. This just means I'm doing something right to even PR when I think I had a bad start to my run.

you like how i keep my room hella dark cuz of the freakin' heat?!

PPPS. I ran in my Free Runs today. I wonder if switching from shoe to shoe daily is going to mess up my feet.  The way I have it so far is my Free Runs for training-5k, FAAS 300 for 5k-10k, and anything above that will be my Lunarglides. Keep in mind this is all in the mind so far. I haven't actually used my FAAS that much and haven't used my Lunarglides at all. This is just what I was thinking, but I'm not sure if its going to mess me up come race day to switch shoes or something. Thoughts?

I Be FAAS Mon!

Today's run was AWESOME!!!

Maybe its the excitement because of the new gear! I ran in my FAAS 300. I've had them a while but haven't used them since I'm getting so comfortable in my Free Runs but I love the FAAS! It will definitely take some time and miles to get used to, but I love them a lot!

In terms of the actual run, I know I could have been better had I been smarter by hydrating and eating before hand. For this entire day, I've had 2 Balance Bars and an Ezekiel toast with cheese. For the entire day. I burned all of that out during my run so I know I'm on a calorie deficit but there was a couple of points in my run where I was dizzy and had to hold on to a tree or a wall for a bit. Oh, I had my handy dandy Chocolate Outrage GU before my run so that helped, but hardly.

I also brought my Nathan water bottle with me and kept on drinking Gatorade because I was sweating like crazy and just needed something anything to fuel me.

The run was good tho! I'm really happy about it. Close to my 5k marathon pace of 40:22, not too shabby considering I'm a penguin. I can't wait to get under 30 minutes for my 5k runs. I was able to do it before, years ago when I completed Couch to 5k, but I never ran a real race then, just did it to do it. Maybe I should do it again after my half marathon training. Its a bit backwards I know, but I just want to make sure I finish my half marathon alive =]

07/05/11 Run Recap

This is what I have to run with, my black neoprene knee brace. It is one of the worlds greatest inconvenience while running. I'm not sure if I'm KT-taping right because my knee still hurts when I run with the KT-tape for too long- it does help tho, so I chose to run with the neoprene. Its black, it attracts and retains heat and now it is soaked in sweat. I had perhaps the slowest mile I've ever walked not just "run" but walked. And it was hella slow. But its okay. I'm not going to be sad over it, not going to trip over it, I'm just so super proud and glad that I still went out there and did something. Granted, this "injury" is pushing me behind in my half training but the only things that its really affecting are my long runs because it really starts too hurt. Maybe once I get over 4 miles, it will all just be mind games and I'll just have to push through the pain. Pain will come, I will choose if I want to suffer. I can suffer in an ice bath later.

At least I had a nice view while running! I actually ran/walked more than what the Daily Mile widget says. I don't want to reveal where I live in Nike+ so I start and stop the watch significantly farther from where I live. I know I hit about three miles so I'm not that bummed. One day I'll be more accurate when I'm running not near my house. Anyway. I "ran" okay more like walked or crawled in the park today. I would go there more often but its really hilly and I seriously need to find a flat surface to run in so I don't mess up my knee some more. When I ran in the grass my knee wouldn't hurt as much so I know softer and flatter surfaces help.

I also took a Honey Stinger energy thing and I'll just stick to Chocolate GU. Haha. The taste was weird! I heard the waffles were good, but I don't want to eat solids. Maybe when I run longer runs I'll move onto solids. But that won't be for a while. Although I've read reviews that the waffles taste like STROOP WAFFLES which are my favorite baked treats from Europe. Those things are BOSS. Imagine one designed for fueling exercises?! But taste wise, I don't recommend the Honey Stinger at all. I had a hard time swallowing it.

Running Swag

I feel like doing a random post of what I use on my runs. By no means are these endorsements.  These things work for me, and if they work for you, great, if not, then great! This are just the things I use.

Nike Free Run+ 2

Prior to getting these shoes, I've been running in a pair of Asics that I found at Ross.  They were not doing anything for me.  They were something that I picked up way before I knew anything about running. I would use them for my runs and my shins would be hurting and my ankle would hurting and pretty much everything would be hurting. They were way too bulky and I just hated them.  I consider the Free Run+ my very first pair of "real" running shoes.  I love them so much. They fit so comfy and they have just the minimalistic support that I like. Not too much like the Asics I had.  They don't hurt when I run in them, but when I push past 6 miles, I can usually feel pain. I'm in no way blaming the shoes because its possible that my body is just in pain.  But so far, my favorite pair of shoes to date!

Puma Faas 300

I picked these up because they were recommended by a friend. I originally wanted the 500s but when I tried the 500 on, I wasn't convinced. It felt too much for a minimalist running shoe but too little for support. I'm already indecisive, I don't need indecisive shoes! I haven't used these at all. I'm really getting used to my Free Run+. I'm going to use these as soon as I can get rid of some of the pain in my left knee so I can't blame the shoes for them. I love them on tho. They are comfy and I feel barefoot in them.  Just as a disclosure, I love being barefoot! Even when I was younger, I would never wear slippers. I still walk around barefoot outside. I'm not into the whole "minimalistic" movement thing because I haven't even done my research on that. I just like the whole being barefoot thing. 

Under Armour Tank

I picked these up on sale at Sport Chalet for $7.00!!! A steal for Under Armour! I get hot and sweat easily and I really, really love these cooling stuff from Under Armour. They work well and its white which helps repeal heat.  But at 90 degree weather, it kinda doesn't make a difference, but hey, I have a white UA tank for $7 and it works!

Nike Pacer Shorts

 I love, love, love these shorts!!! I also got this at a Sport Chalet sale for $10 each.  They still retail for full price, $32, at the Nike website.  Pacer shorts have built in underwear, but I still wear my own =], and two interior pockets. I love those damn pockets when I don't feel like carrying anything. There is one in front, and one in the back. They barely hold my phone but they can hold a small (non iTouch) mp3 player, GU, and keys if you want. The lining is also moisture wicking (dri-fit) and with this weather, we don't need sweat building up in our legs! The moisture wicking part works and it keeps me comfy in my long runs. Another important thing for me is that THEY DON'T RIDE UP! I have a pair of Target brand shorts that I used/still use before I got the pacers and they ride up all the time. The first time I ran with these, I kept on "pulling them down" but I didn't have to! Comfy shorts, not too long, not too short, don't ride up, what more could you ask for?! Well, I do want to try the ones with the built in compression, but thats for another time! I can't justify paying $40 for shorts right now.

Body Glove Sunglasses

This was from Ross that I've had for a while. They were intended for water sports. They have rubber lining on the side pieces that prevent them from slipping, but since I haven't been near water in a while, I use them for my runs! They work well without being the typical over-size, bug-eye sunglasses I wear when I'm not running and I like red & black. The rubber lining helps prevent them from moving around too much when I run (or play in the beach) and thats always a plus.

Nathan Quick Draw Plus Water Bottle

Yes, I spent $17.99 on a water bottle -_- The thing with this is, I dehydrate easily. I sweat easily and profusely on a normal basis, imagine when I'm running and putting in work. Its like Niagara. This bottle doesn't require for you to open or "pull up" on the tip of the bottle to drink from. Just drink. It also has a small pocket where I can fit my debit card, license, phone, and GU.  There is also a spot for an ID. As a road runner, I get worried sometimes when I don't carry my ID, so having this ID tab built in is something like a peace of mind that cost me $17.99.  The thing is, I've taken this with me on my runs and I have to switch hands because my hand gets sore carrying this. I only fill it up 8 ounces (this carries 22 ounces I believe) so its not that heavy but my hand still gets tired. My right hand since thats my dominant hand.

Nike+ Sportswatch GPS

This little diddydiddy showed up, I would map my runs prior and sometimes I'll forget where to turn and would miss turns and it was just a disaster. I still have some issues with the watch- no stop watch function and no alarm function, please fix it with a software u pdate- but so far so good. I love how intuitive it is and how it looks. The CSR I spoke with accidentally let it slip that they are releasing a new color, I'm not sure what, but I'm content with the black and green/yellow thing. But yes, I love this and its money well spent. This actually makes me excited to run.

Not picture is my elastic wrist thing with a whistle attached and my Sansa mp3 player. I can't find my whistle right now (OH NO!) and my mp3 player is charging!

But yes, these are my running swag and quasi review of them.

Pause!

I'm going to pause my carb cycling.

I'm having a hard time tracking my carbs and really eating that much carbs is a chore for me.  I'm kinda discouraged by it since it should be pretty simple, but its pretty hard for me, but there isn't a point dwelling on that. I'll just put it off till after the half.

I know I gained weight because of the two weeks I was on it, and I know my running will use up the fuel, but right now I'm frustrated cuz I have to think about what I eat and marathon training so I'm just going to pause that one aspect of life right now.

I also know I'm loosing muscle mass, which is also frustrating. I knew my P90x was going to suffer while training for the marathon, but I worked hard for what little muscles I have so I'm sad about that, but I'm going to kick that up a notch.

So right now, I'm just going back to really low carbs and listening to what my body needs after its run. If I need a little more carbs, I shouldn't/won't be afraid to eat some good for me carbs.

Also, being a girl runner sucks. I think guys have it better, here is a list why:

• Guys don't have boobs. They don't need to spend at least $20 for a really good bra. I double up my bras and it gets really hot and uncomfortable.
• Guys don't have periods. You don't have to be bloated, crampy, and irritated.
• Guys have bodies that were built to run. Girls have child bearing bodies.

Those are just some reasons that randomly came up in my head. I hate having to deal with the first two. The last one, that isn't really an issue cuz our bodies are smart and adjust. But imagine running in 90 degree heat, wearing two sports bras and on your period. That is probably the worst case scenario for a girl.

I'm also thinking up more races for the future. I'm going to be traveling a lot till the end of the year and I'm excited for that, but it makes it difficult to see which races I can do. I really want to do another 5k soon, even a 10k, but there isn't much events in my area.

Debating about doing the inaugural Hollywood Half but its really expensive for a half, and I'll have to travel down there, which means it will probably cost me 3x the registration over all to just do the run. I don't mind, since I can see my fam there, but at the same time, why can't NorCal just be more runner and marathon friendly? It will save me some serious cash!

But planning trips AROUND marathons are also fun! I want to do the Niagara Marathon which is the only marathon that spans two countries! You need a PASSPORT to run the race! How exciting is that? I also want to do Peachtree next year! And just so many random events. I'm so excited. I wish someone would take up the same interest as me and would find all this worthwhile cuz traveling is always fun with someone! But I know my friend wants to check out random places anyway, she should be down to travel (not necessarily run) with me!