I have definitely let the blog go...so much has happened that I need to document, but time has just flown by.
I think I will start with just a short summary of things I would like to capture before they blur in my memory.
The List from oldest to newest:
1. June 13 - floating Spring River while 35 weeks preggo
2. June 15 - preggo pics taken
3. June 18 - baby shower bbq hosted by the greatest friends
4. July 4 - Boom Run 5K in the AM - went into labor with baby girl in PM
5. July 5 - Mira Nyx born at 3:30AM!!!!!! via emergency C-section - healthy baby girl 5lbs 9oz 18" long - 2 weeks early
6. July 17 - 1st bike ride post baby - 12 miles
7. July 31 - hiking at Roaring river with Mira
8. Aug 11 - 5 weeks post baby 2 mile run
9. Aug 26 - Colorado with Mira (first flight) for USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 5 & 6
10. Sept 4 - week total of 20 miles running, including a 5 miler in 5 fingers
11. Sept 12 - Mira's first bike ride in the Burley trailer
11. Sept 14 - back to work and missing my little girl :-(
Stay tuned...
Also, thinking this blog may change up a bit and have more stuff (not just running). Need to look at how to categorize things- any thoughts on that?
Showing posts with label pregnant running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pregnant running. Show all posts
Friday, September 16, 2011
Monday, June 6, 2011
Starry Night 5K at 33 weeks pregnant
Last Monday I had a so, so 3.5 mile run. Friday morning I had an OK 3.25 mile run, but it still required walking. Pretty sure both were in 10:30 - 11min/mile pace.
So, Saturday came and I was feeling skeptical about whether I should attempt a 5K that night. The fact that it was for a good cause won me over and we headed to Joplin. Decided on a grilled cheese & cranberry limeaide from Sonic as the perfect pre-race dinner. We got to race start around an hour early and registered then chatted up with friends until start time. There seemed to be great attendance for a first annual event. Everyone was stoked about doing a night run. We were all outfitted with glow in the dark arm bands in either pink, purple, or yellow. The course was lined with luminaries. It was still humid, but tolerable by the 8:30pm race start. After prayer and the National Anthem the 10K racers were started followed shortly by the 5K racers. I picked a place near the back and fielded more questions on whether I planned to walk or run and how far along I was. (My answer was "whatever my body feels like doing" & of course "33 weeks" - per the title). We got going and I realized the hard packed gravel was treating my belly a little more gently than the pavement. I felt good and proceeded to unintentionally 'pick-off' people. I grabbed a swig of water at the 1ish mile mark to make sure I stayed hydrated. As I left that water station I started seeing the top 5K runners on their way back. I yelled 'good job' to them all & chatted with people I passed to make sure I was staying within my 'able to have a conversation' zone. I made it to the 1-1/2 mile turn around, then grabbed another swig of water at the 2ish mile mark. Heading back in was surreal - pitch dark on a tree lined trail with only luminaries on the sides and lots of swinging circles of glowing light (our glow in the dark arm bands) then into the lights of the finish line. It was a pretty impressive finish line for a 5K, but at night it was even more awesome. With the music and the announcer and the fans it felt more like finishing a marathon. My time was 31:30 - the best pace and best run I've had in weeks. I felt like I could keep going, but was also happy it was over so I could have a bathroom break! I downed two bottles of water, an orange, and a snocone as we watched the rest of the 5K finishers and the 10K finishers come in (the winner of that race came in right behind me!).
The highlights of the night were all of the positive words about continuing to run I received (sometimes people outside of the running community don't understand the desire to continue running into pregnancy) and seeing such a great event in Joplin so soon after all the destruction. This race was the first of a 3 race night time series. The next race is called A Midsummer Night's 5K & 10K run on July 9 then the Blue Moon 5K & 10K on August 13. I think even if I have to walk it, I would like to get back out there on July 9 (baby permitting of course). Time will tell. :-)
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Running at 32 weeks pregnant
Just another quick update. Still getting out the door occasionally. (Although yoga has turned into my go to preggo exercise - luckily I have found a couple challenging videos that I like and work for me right now.)
So, running - I did 3.5 miles yesterday and walked about .5 of it. The running (if you can call it that) was very slow. The man ran with me and actually had a Garmin on so I know how slow I've gotten. 10:30 was average pace, my body preferred 11's and my legs preferred 10's. They compromised, but I don't think they will continue to do so for much longer. I think my legs will have to take pleasure from biking and spinning for a while. I will say that using a maternity band has helped, heat has not. Drinking on the run exacerbates the need to pee, but not drinking in this weather is not really an option. I did have at least 1.5 miles of pleasure during the jaunt and that will keep me getting out there. The plan is to try again tomorrow morning - we shall see how it goes. :-)
Another note, as of the last couple weeks my longest tanks are starting to show a little belly. I guess that's not bad considering they are just normal tanks and not maternity. So, we found a Reebok tank from Motherhood Maternity this weekend. I don't love the fabric and it's a little long, but it will help get me through. I like the separation between the boobs & the belly so that it doesn't look like one big blob - that's nice for a pregnant lady. We need to not feel like blobs as much as possible! :-)
So, running - I did 3.5 miles yesterday and walked about .5 of it. The running (if you can call it that) was very slow. The man ran with me and actually had a Garmin on so I know how slow I've gotten. 10:30 was average pace, my body preferred 11's and my legs preferred 10's. They compromised, but I don't think they will continue to do so for much longer. I think my legs will have to take pleasure from biking and spinning for a while. I will say that using a maternity band has helped, heat has not. Drinking on the run exacerbates the need to pee, but not drinking in this weather is not really an option. I did have at least 1.5 miles of pleasure during the jaunt and that will keep me getting out there. The plan is to try again tomorrow morning - we shall see how it goes. :-)
Another note, as of the last couple weeks my longest tanks are starting to show a little belly. I guess that's not bad considering they are just normal tanks and not maternity. So, we found a Reebok tank from Motherhood Maternity this weekend. I don't love the fabric and it's a little long, but it will help get me through. I like the separation between the boobs & the belly so that it doesn't look like one big blob - that's nice for a pregnant lady. We need to not feel like blobs as much as possible! :-)
Friday, May 13, 2011
Running at 30 weeks preggo
Just a quick update on running - still doing it.
I have had 2 decent runs, & 2 not as great runs this week. Kind of sinking in that not all days will be good for running and walking is alright too. Just getting out there is an accomplishment and the fresh air always does me good.
Biggest issues with continuing to run are bladder/pelvic pressure & sore feet.
Downhills are no longer my friend since they put some extra pounding on the bladder. On days when it's just 'the need to pee' pain I'm doing OK. On days when there is pressure and pain in the pelvis (think needle poking pain - not excruciating, just irritating) there is walking.
Taking smaller strides helps reduce all my bladder pain. Heel striking helps with the pressure on my feet.
Slowing down helps with everything.
So, slow and steady and taking it easy when my body says so, I'm going to try to keep up this mental release during my pregnancy. Only 10 more weeks! :-)
I have had 2 decent runs, & 2 not as great runs this week. Kind of sinking in that not all days will be good for running and walking is alright too. Just getting out there is an accomplishment and the fresh air always does me good.
Biggest issues with continuing to run are bladder/pelvic pressure & sore feet.
Downhills are no longer my friend since they put some extra pounding on the bladder. On days when it's just 'the need to pee' pain I'm doing OK. On days when there is pressure and pain in the pelvis (think needle poking pain - not excruciating, just irritating) there is walking.
Taking smaller strides helps reduce all my bladder pain. Heel striking helps with the pressure on my feet.
Slowing down helps with everything.
So, slow and steady and taking it easy when my body says so, I'm going to try to keep up this mental release during my pregnancy. Only 10 more weeks! :-)
Scolding
I really did not see this one coming. I've talked to the doctor before about my exercise - including biking. I've cut back on my exercise. I make sure I can carry on a conversation while exercising. I stay hydrated. I take care of myself and therefore my baby. I am well educated regarding exercise and pregnancy.
So the appointment yesterday...
(Picture doctor standing in front of you with hands on hips and snarky attitude.)
Doctor - I saw you rode your bike to the last appointment.
Me - Yes.
Doc - Exactly how much are you biking?
Me - Commuting 4 miles/day, Monday bike ride of around 10 miles...(luckily I got no further than this or she might have blown a gasket)
Doc - I'm concerned about your center of balance and riding long miles...increasing your chance of falling or pre-term labor..
Husband - What causes pre-term labor?
Doc - Overheating, she needs to take it easy
Husband - She has been taking it easy, she's cut down from her pre-pregnancy mileage by over 50%
Doc - She's not pre-pregnant, she's pregnant (Really?? Hadn't noticed that one...)
Doc - More 'talking at us' about falling and taking it easy and overheating...
Doc - You've only gained .5lbs since your last appointment.
Me - No, I've gained about 3lbs - last time I was here I was wearing boots; this time I'm wearing sandals.
Doc - Overall your weight gain is fine and your measurements are where they should be (like I said...)
There was more I'm sure - that's the gist of it though. Basically she said biking is unsafe for me now. Mostly annoyed with her approach. Going to blame it on her having a bad day, just being cautious, etc...
There are so many sides to this issue though.
Negatives:
Overheating - since it's hotter this could be an issue. It leads to dehydration so I have been monitoring the color of my urine closely. But, honestly it's just as big of an issue with running, walking, anything outdoors when it's 90 degrees and she didn't mention any of those.
Falling - there is always a risk of falling when on a bike no matter how careful you are. But, there is some danger in anything we do or any form of transportation we use. I am conscious about the fact that I could fall, but I also don't feel that my center of balance is really 'off'. Maybe it will be, but currently it isn't. I feel safe on my bike or I wouldn't do it.
Out of my control factors - other cyclists, animals, and vehicles.
Positives:
Normal exercising during pregnancy benefits - more energy, better mood, better sleep, easier labor and even possibly healthier heart for baby.
Other factors:
Safer/as safe as cars?? - more pregnant women die in car accidents than birth complications. In addition, odds of dying in a car accident are 1/88, while odds of dying in a bicycling accident are 1/4717 per the NSC. Now, that's not taking into account the fetus. Evidently states are not required to track fetus deaths when reporting accidents. They estimate 300 - 1000 per year. More than 4X the death rate of infants & children up to 4 years. Mostly due to steering wheel and improper use of seat belt.
I should state it seems the big worry with falls off a bike or with an automobile accident is detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall - causing the fetus to lose oxygen. I read it accounts for 80% of fetal loss in automobile accidents.
So, what to do, what to do????
Baby comes first. Cycling seems safer than driving a car. Slow commuting seems appropriate on an upright bike. Biking on trails away from traffic seems OK. Road riding may be out for now. Tonight is Thursday and I generally ride roads, but it is a hilly course with no shoulders so why take the chance I guess. Planning to take my trainer and ride in the parking lot while the man bikes then go for an off road run with him.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
3rd Trimester 5K
It wasn't on the calendar, but running a 5K seemed like a good way to get me out of bed on a Saturday to run. I am around 20lbs over my pre-preggo weight and my running has slowed, but I still thought it would be fun to get out and run with a group. The hardest part was knowing that I couldn't push it. Knowing that I couldn't chase down that 'rabbit'. This was going to just be a run and my goal was to finish and make sure I didn't overexert.
It was the Dogwood 5K in Neosho, MO. A friend told me about it on Friday, otherwise I wouldn't have heard about it at all. I was expecting the typical 5K turnout for this area (30-50 runners). Turned out to be around 120 runners in total - that was a happy surprise - the more the merrier! It's a great idea - $8 to pre-register, and $10 day of race - no t-shirt, just a nice size dogwood to all finishers - awesome!
Race started at 9am and I took off. We headed south (into a pretty strong wind). I found my pace pretty quickly, continually telling myself to not go out to fast. No garmin so it was all by feel. After about a mile we made a turn east and up a hill. This is where you found out who hadn't been telling themselves not to go out too fast! I was able to pick off a few people just by not walking up the first hill. We made a turn back south for around a block before curving back east and back up hill. Again, a few more people fell behind. Then, the turn North, wind at our backs, rolling hills, dogwoods in bloom on a beautiful day. It felt great. I passed the 2 mile mark (twice within a block - not sure which one was correct, but it didn't really matter). Shortly after 2 miles I felt the baby moving and then the dreaded pressure on the bladder. It hit hard for a minute, then let off, a sigh of relief was felt. I kept focus on the four people directly ahead of me and just tried to keep my pace steady. It didn't seem like any time before we were turning west to the final stretch - all downhill. I sped up some, shook out my arms and bounded down the last hill into the finish corral. I stopped long enough to have my number ripped off then straight to the bathroom! My internal goal had been to finish in under 30 minutes and the man informed me that I had so I was happy. Running for more than 2 miles without a bathroom or walk break at this point in pregnancy is a great run. Eventually I'll find out my actual time, but regardless it was a great race.
Still thinking about doing a 10K in a couple weeks - we will see if the body likes that idea or not. :-)
It was the Dogwood 5K in Neosho, MO. A friend told me about it on Friday, otherwise I wouldn't have heard about it at all. I was expecting the typical 5K turnout for this area (30-50 runners). Turned out to be around 120 runners in total - that was a happy surprise - the more the merrier! It's a great idea - $8 to pre-register, and $10 day of race - no t-shirt, just a nice size dogwood to all finishers - awesome!
Race started at 9am and I took off. We headed south (into a pretty strong wind). I found my pace pretty quickly, continually telling myself to not go out to fast. No garmin so it was all by feel. After about a mile we made a turn east and up a hill. This is where you found out who hadn't been telling themselves not to go out too fast! I was able to pick off a few people just by not walking up the first hill. We made a turn back south for around a block before curving back east and back up hill. Again, a few more people fell behind. Then, the turn North, wind at our backs, rolling hills, dogwoods in bloom on a beautiful day. It felt great. I passed the 2 mile mark (twice within a block - not sure which one was correct, but it didn't really matter). Shortly after 2 miles I felt the baby moving and then the dreaded pressure on the bladder. It hit hard for a minute, then let off, a sigh of relief was felt. I kept focus on the four people directly ahead of me and just tried to keep my pace steady. It didn't seem like any time before we were turning west to the final stretch - all downhill. I sped up some, shook out my arms and bounded down the last hill into the finish corral. I stopped long enough to have my number ripped off then straight to the bathroom! My internal goal had been to finish in under 30 minutes and the man informed me that I had so I was happy. Running for more than 2 miles without a bathroom or walk break at this point in pregnancy is a great run. Eventually I'll find out my actual time, but regardless it was a great race.
Still thinking about doing a 10K in a couple weeks - we will see if the body likes that idea or not. :-)
Monday, April 18, 2011
Good news for baby
I've read and read and read about exercise during pregnancy. Even after making the decision to continue to run and bike while pregnant you still question the decision with each little ache and pain. I read something in the New York Times today that makes me feel even better about the decision. So, not only is it good for mommy and make for easier delivery and labor, but it could be beneficial to our babies heart - win, win! :-)
Friday, April 15, 2011
Preggo running take 2
I was 26 weeks on Wednesday and I'm still running. It's getting less and less comfortable, but mostly due to the constant need to pee. I'm definitely not ready to throw in the towel though. Since it is only pressure on the bladder, I've been trying mind games to keep me from thinking about it so much. I figure I'm going to have to get pretty dang good at the mind games if I intend to do this whole "natural birth" thing.
When I look back over the past couple weeks I'm really pretty pleased with my performance. There have been set backs and I haven't always met my self imposed goals. However, that's the nice thing about this pregnancy thing - my REAL goal is to have a happy, healthy baby. That means it doesn't matter if I run 4.5 miles or 6 (as happened this morning since I just wasn't feeling it). Pretty sure one reason I 'wasn't feeling it' was because I rode 22 hilly miles on my road bike last night (and did an hour of spin yesterday morning & commuted to work). It's always a challenging course, but it's more so when pregnant and having that constant need to breath and stuff. Not losing your breath on the hills is a challenge, but doable if you have really low gears. I do, and I use them. And, I ride smarter than I have before. I give a kick on the down hill to make sure I have plenty of steam to get me up the next one. It works. More legs, less lungs.
Wednesday I was able to run 6. Tuesday was spinning. Monday I felt off and skipped my run, but still did our Monday night chill ride (only 8 miles, slow on trails to encourage beginners). Sunday was 2 hours of mountain biking - pretty easy single track - preggo friendly. Saturday was only 4 miles and riding to and from prenatal class. The week before looked fairly similar. There was also the occasional yoga (twice a week) and daily commuting. How can I not be happy with that. :-)
Gotta run
(forgot to hit "Publish Post" so I'm posting this delayed)
Yep, I'm still running. However, I don't go out with the intention of running 4 miles, or 6 miles. My intention seems always how to get to the nearest bathroom. And, my criteria for what constitutes a bathroom is changing.. For instance, the bathroom on the Monday 4 mile run was behind a building in a park. Generally this wouldn't be acceptable, but when you gotta go it works. The 6 mile run on Wednesday I only stopped once at the Y - that's pretty impressive for me. Today, I ran 6 of Brooke's 12 with her. We had one stop at her house, then one impromptu on the side of the road with her and Greyson standing guard. Unfortunately, I was in such a hurry I forgot I had tucked my gloves in my shorts so they are now MIA, but it was worth it.
Overall, I can't complain. I'm 24 weeks and still able to run and this makes me happy. I have no real idea the pace I've been making Brooke run the past couple weeks, but I know it's not speedy. It's sure nice to have company though!
Yep, I'm still running. However, I don't go out with the intention of running 4 miles, or 6 miles. My intention seems always how to get to the nearest bathroom. And, my criteria for what constitutes a bathroom is changing.. For instance, the bathroom on the Monday 4 mile run was behind a building in a park. Generally this wouldn't be acceptable, but when you gotta go it works. The 6 mile run on Wednesday I only stopped once at the Y - that's pretty impressive for me. Today, I ran 6 of Brooke's 12 with her. We had one stop at her house, then one impromptu on the side of the road with her and Greyson standing guard. Unfortunately, I was in such a hurry I forgot I had tucked my gloves in my shorts so they are now MIA, but it was worth it.
Overall, I can't complain. I'm 24 weeks and still able to run and this makes me happy. I have no real idea the pace I've been making Brooke run the past couple weeks, but I know it's not speedy. It's sure nice to have company though!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Still plodding along
My running has still been hit and miss between travel to New Orleans for Mardi Gras and the minor aches, pains, and fatigue of pregnancy. But, it's still happening and right now I'm going to consider that good.
I'm not going to catch back up completely (b/c to be honest I didn't keep great records), but lets start with last Friday and go from there. I was able to get in a 4 mile run prior to work. Saturday we went to Tulsa for the man to race bikes. He took the time and energy to ride with me for 40 minutes (a couple hours before his race). Between that and walking the dogs on the course to cheer him on I considered Saturday semi-successful (considering we were on the road). Sunday he raced again. I only managed to run a couple miles in between his laps (mostly b/c it was colder than anticipated and I hadn't brought the right clothes). However, in order to get the best views of his race I hiked up and down the side of the dam 3 times and let me tell you it was steep! So, not as much as I would like, but there was movement.
Monday started off good with a 6.5 mile run with Brooke in the cold. I have to say, I got a sun burn on Saturday and that made getting up to run in "feels like" 24 degree weather a whole lot harder. Not to mention it started raining on us prior to the finish. At least I had good company! Unfortunately, I also had chaffing. Not sure if it was the wet or just an ill fitting jog bra, but I must remedy the situation. Once you get some it's very hard to keep it at bay with something continually rubbing it. Argh.
Today was back to spin class. Hoping tomorrow leads to another run, and Thursday another spin class. Friday we head to Port Aransas for a pre-baby getaway. We've rented a tandem to cruise around town and if that's the only exercise I get I will be happy, but a run on the beach might be nice as well. We'll just have to see. :-)
Till next time - run on!
Chanti
I'm not going to catch back up completely (b/c to be honest I didn't keep great records), but lets start with last Friday and go from there. I was able to get in a 4 mile run prior to work. Saturday we went to Tulsa for the man to race bikes. He took the time and energy to ride with me for 40 minutes (a couple hours before his race). Between that and walking the dogs on the course to cheer him on I considered Saturday semi-successful (considering we were on the road). Sunday he raced again. I only managed to run a couple miles in between his laps (mostly b/c it was colder than anticipated and I hadn't brought the right clothes). However, in order to get the best views of his race I hiked up and down the side of the dam 3 times and let me tell you it was steep! So, not as much as I would like, but there was movement.
Monday started off good with a 6.5 mile run with Brooke in the cold. I have to say, I got a sun burn on Saturday and that made getting up to run in "feels like" 24 degree weather a whole lot harder. Not to mention it started raining on us prior to the finish. At least I had good company! Unfortunately, I also had chaffing. Not sure if it was the wet or just an ill fitting jog bra, but I must remedy the situation. Once you get some it's very hard to keep it at bay with something continually rubbing it. Argh.
Today was back to spin class. Hoping tomorrow leads to another run, and Thursday another spin class. Friday we head to Port Aransas for a pre-baby getaway. We've rented a tandem to cruise around town and if that's the only exercise I get I will be happy, but a run on the beach might be nice as well. We'll just have to see. :-)
Till next time - run on!
Chanti
Monday, February 21, 2011
Low mileage and new shoes
Running miles were slim last week - only a 4 mile run on Monday and a 3 mile run on Friday. :-(
The excuse:
It all started with a 10 mile run a week ago Saturday. I followed that up with a Sunday bike ride of close to 5 hours seat time. Not hard miles, just a lot of time out. Monday morning up early for a 4 mile run, and yoga in the evening. Tuesday morning up even earlier for spin class. By Wednesday my pregnant body decided sleeping in was the way to go. It even talked me into taking a much needed afternoon off. It helped a bunch and Thursday I was back at it with early morning spin. Friday I was a little tired so I didn't push it, just ran an easy 3. Saturday we had a nice group ride - close to 4 hours - I got a lovely burn between my jersey sleeve and where I pulled my arm warmers down - in February I'll take it!
Sunday was my first road bike race of any sorts at the Frost Bike 20 mile time trial. I'll be posting more about it later, but it was a 20 mile ride and I was already a bit fatigued from Saturday so it equaled no run this weekend.
The Plan:
So, the goal this week is at least 3 runs. Biking is only planned for Saturday so I should have Sunday for a long(ish) run. Plans to run tonight before the Road Runner's meeting (that just makes sense right??). Spin will be Tuesday and Thursday so another run on Wednesday. Hope to throw in some yoga and weights plus the 2.5 hours a week I spend commuting to work via bike and call it good.
The shoes:
I have noticed my shoes are a little worn. I have been running in an old pair of Asic Kayanos and they really have seen better days. I knew I needed new shoes, and had planned on buying some more Pearl Izumi Streaks then the positive for pregnancy came. Just not sure those light weight, race ready shoes will get me through pregnancy. Finally decided that another pair of Asics were the way to go. Went to The Run Around and tried on the Kayano 17s and the Nimbus 12s. Found the Nimbus felt the best right now. So, I'll be rocking these cuties for the next few months:
I'll keep you posted on whether they have the support to carry me through the next 20 or so pounds.
Till next time - keep running!
The excuse:
It all started with a 10 mile run a week ago Saturday. I followed that up with a Sunday bike ride of close to 5 hours seat time. Not hard miles, just a lot of time out. Monday morning up early for a 4 mile run, and yoga in the evening. Tuesday morning up even earlier for spin class. By Wednesday my pregnant body decided sleeping in was the way to go. It even talked me into taking a much needed afternoon off. It helped a bunch and Thursday I was back at it with early morning spin. Friday I was a little tired so I didn't push it, just ran an easy 3. Saturday we had a nice group ride - close to 4 hours - I got a lovely burn between my jersey sleeve and where I pulled my arm warmers down - in February I'll take it!
Sunday was my first road bike race of any sorts at the Frost Bike 20 mile time trial. I'll be posting more about it later, but it was a 20 mile ride and I was already a bit fatigued from Saturday so it equaled no run this weekend.
The Plan:
So, the goal this week is at least 3 runs. Biking is only planned for Saturday so I should have Sunday for a long(ish) run. Plans to run tonight before the Road Runner's meeting (that just makes sense right??). Spin will be Tuesday and Thursday so another run on Wednesday. Hope to throw in some yoga and weights plus the 2.5 hours a week I spend commuting to work via bike and call it good.
The shoes:
I have noticed my shoes are a little worn. I have been running in an old pair of Asic Kayanos and they really have seen better days. I knew I needed new shoes, and had planned on buying some more Pearl Izumi Streaks then the positive for pregnancy came. Just not sure those light weight, race ready shoes will get me through pregnancy. Finally decided that another pair of Asics were the way to go. Went to The Run Around and tried on the Kayano 17s and the Nimbus 12s. Found the Nimbus felt the best right now. So, I'll be rocking these cuties for the next few months:
Till next time - keep running!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Belly runs
Last week roads were still a little sketchy so we skipped the long Saturday bike ride. It meant I got to put in 10 running miles with my friend Brooke who was going 19 on her last build before Little Rock Marathon! It was definitely the best run I've had in a while. 10 miles with only one bathroom break!! Whoohoo!
We had to utilize main roads since there was still some slush and ice on side roads, but at least we were able to get out and enjoy the above freezing weather. It was a good day all around with quite a few big wavers. And we all know the number of wavers is directly proportional to the kind of run you have right?? ;-)
I was wondering on my way home, I'm right at 18 weeks and just starting to show...do people see me and think pregnant girl?? Or, do they see me right now and think I should probably be putting in a few more runs? Hehe!
I do know there are times when I notice my little belly more. Last night while doing yoga I realized sitting poses seem to accentuate the bulge. Then, today in spin class I just happened to glance at myself in the mirror on the way out and noticed that tank tops really don't hide much. Gone (for now) are the days of flat bellies, but it sure is fun thinking of what all is going on in there. :-)
Till next time - run on...
Running for two!
We had to utilize main roads since there was still some slush and ice on side roads, but at least we were able to get out and enjoy the above freezing weather. It was a good day all around with quite a few big wavers. And we all know the number of wavers is directly proportional to the kind of run you have right?? ;-)
I was wondering on my way home, I'm right at 18 weeks and just starting to show...do people see me and think pregnant girl?? Or, do they see me right now and think I should probably be putting in a few more runs? Hehe!
I do know there are times when I notice my little belly more. Last night while doing yoga I realized sitting poses seem to accentuate the bulge. Then, today in spin class I just happened to glance at myself in the mirror on the way out and noticed that tank tops really don't hide much. Gone (for now) are the days of flat bellies, but it sure is fun thinking of what all is going on in there. :-)
Till next time - run on...
Running for two!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Gotta run
17 weeks along and running is still good with the exception of one thing - bathroom breaks. They aren't consistent, but some runs lately have been a duathlon that consists of running, bathroom, running, bathroom, etc. I've read all about the blood flow causing more urine through your bladder, hormones, etc., but I don't get why some days it's worse than others.
This morning while eeking out a 4 miler at the Y with Brooke I felt like I needed to go the whole time. I went right before starting and then again after a mile and wanted to stop for the next 3, but forced myself to persevere. It makes me wonder how I will ever make it through running into the third trimester at this rate. Guess I'll just take it day to day.
Running at the Y might have more benefits than being able to run with my friend who is faster than my preggo self - easy access to facilities. Although part of me wonders if the fact that I know I have access to go makes me need to go more.
In the big picture I know this is minor and my running will continue and that makes life good. :-)
Till next time, run on!
This morning while eeking out a 4 miler at the Y with Brooke I felt like I needed to go the whole time. I went right before starting and then again after a mile and wanted to stop for the next 3, but forced myself to persevere. It makes me wonder how I will ever make it through running into the third trimester at this rate. Guess I'll just take it day to day.
Running at the Y might have more benefits than being able to run with my friend who is faster than my preggo self - easy access to facilities. Although part of me wonders if the fact that I know I have access to go makes me need to go more.
In the big picture I know this is minor and my running will continue and that makes life good. :-)
Till next time, run on!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Yaktrax
I bought a pair of yaktrax a few weeks ago - just in case. I've been using them for my bike to work so if I do have to put a foot down it doesn't slip out from under me and they have been great for that. Even just walking around on the snow and ice has been really good. I'm not the most graceful so any stability I can get is helpful.
I tried them out on my first real road run in the snow on Saturday. When I left the house it was still below freezing and roads were snow packed and frozen. Perfect for the yaktrax. I was hesitant at first, but eventually got into the swing of it and was able to run at very close to my normal pace.
I got to the Y and had planned on running a few treadmill miles with a friend who had 16 miles to do. As is normal, all treadmills were taken so I just chatted and hung out for a bit till one became free. I hoped on and between bathroom breaks (hormonal bladder) I was able to get in 6 slow miles before I decided it was time to head home. The sun had come out in the time I was at the Y, as well as the cars, and roads were turning slushy. It made the trip home a little worse. Yaktrax can't solve slushy and uneven terrain. Just tried to stay on less traveled roads and I made it home just fine. Bottom line - yaktrax rock.
Till next time - run on (in the snow). :-)
I tried them out on my first real road run in the snow on Saturday. When I left the house it was still below freezing and roads were snow packed and frozen. Perfect for the yaktrax. I was hesitant at first, but eventually got into the swing of it and was able to run at very close to my normal pace.
I got to the Y and had planned on running a few treadmill miles with a friend who had 16 miles to do. As is normal, all treadmills were taken so I just chatted and hung out for a bit till one became free. I hoped on and between bathroom breaks (hormonal bladder) I was able to get in 6 slow miles before I decided it was time to head home. The sun had come out in the time I was at the Y, as well as the cars, and roads were turning slushy. It made the trip home a little worse. Yaktrax can't solve slushy and uneven terrain. Just tried to stay on less traveled roads and I made it home just fine. Bottom line - yaktrax rock.
Till next time - run on (in the snow). :-)
Monday, January 31, 2011
Two weeks in a Row
Pretty happy with the pregnant body lately. First, the nausea seems to have subsided. Second, it managed to get me through a 67 mile bike ride (avg. 15 mph) on Saturday and an 8 mile run on Sunday (two weeks in a row - whoohoo) and still feel good when I got finished. It's truly amazing what the body can do. It's a whole new world exercising when pregnant. You pay way more attention to your body. I do way better at fueling and hydrating. I listen to my breathing and make sure it's never labored. Every twitch or ache is evaluated before moving on. I thought it would be bothersome, but it's refreshing in it's own way. It's teaching me to use my power more than my lungs. It gives a whole new appreciation for what my body already does and now it's doing all that while it's busy making a new little life.
I seem to be gaining and expanding on schedule. There is a definite baby bump in place as well as around 6-7 extra pounds. They say you hit the 2nd trimester and things turn around and you have renewed energy and I think they are right. It wasn't spot on 13 weeks, but at almost 16 weeks it's feeling pretty good. Let's hope it lasts.
As for tonight - looks like I'm going to go do a 4 miler with Brooke. With the winter storm warning we have it might be the last time we leave the house for a day or two, so better enjoy!
Till next time, run on!
I seem to be gaining and expanding on schedule. There is a definite baby bump in place as well as around 6-7 extra pounds. They say you hit the 2nd trimester and things turn around and you have renewed energy and I think they are right. It wasn't spot on 13 weeks, but at almost 16 weeks it's feeling pretty good. Let's hope it lasts.
As for tonight - looks like I'm going to go do a 4 miler with Brooke. With the winter storm warning we have it might be the last time we leave the house for a day or two, so better enjoy!
Till next time, run on!
Monday, January 24, 2011
8 miler
I got to looking at my training log. Basically I ran the Mother Road Marathon 10-10-10 then I took a couple weeks off. Got back to running low mileage, found out I was pregnant, then went and hiked the Grand Canyon. Since we've been back from there runs have been either 4 or 6 miles and mostly on the 4 mile side. I had one 7 miler in November, an 8 miler on December 31, and finally another 8 miler yesterday.
My goal has been to not push myself too hard. With long rides on Saturdays it has just felt like too much to do much of a run on Sundays, but I think a lot of that had to do with my sinus infection. I'm back to feeling better and I got up feeling like I wanted to run this Sunday. It was nice. I had my friend Brooke with me for 4 miles so they went quick. The other 4 consisted of 2 to her house and 2 home so alone time was broken up. It definitely was not the quickest pace, but that's really not the point right now. :-)
It's good to feel like running again. I hope this continues.
I've been more aggressive about yoga lately too. I've been doing it 4-5 nights a week. It really helps with stretching, flexibility, relaxation, and sleep. Ultimately helping with my running and desire to run possibly?? :-)
Till next time - run on!
My goal has been to not push myself too hard. With long rides on Saturdays it has just felt like too much to do much of a run on Sundays, but I think a lot of that had to do with my sinus infection. I'm back to feeling better and I got up feeling like I wanted to run this Sunday. It was nice. I had my friend Brooke with me for 4 miles so they went quick. The other 4 consisted of 2 to her house and 2 home so alone time was broken up. It definitely was not the quickest pace, but that's really not the point right now. :-)
It's good to feel like running again. I hope this continues.
I've been more aggressive about yoga lately too. I've been doing it 4-5 nights a week. It really helps with stretching, flexibility, relaxation, and sleep. Ultimately helping with my running and desire to run possibly?? :-)
Till next time - run on!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Of Dogs & Babies
First things first, this blog is going to be changing. There is big news in our house. We are expecting! July 19 to be exact. As of today we are 13 weeks and 5 days along. We have had a couple of ultrasounds and been to the doctor to hear the heartbeat a few times. We are even able to use our own (borrowed) fetal monitor and hear the heartbeat at home! Pretty exciting in itself.
Running will continue (as long as the doctor says I can), but races are on hold. Not to say I won't compete in a 5K here or there, but time will not be a consideration. Maintaining conversation pace is the new speed work. Some days this is tricker than others! (not because I push it, just because I get winded more easily these days). ;-)
So, like I said still running. Also, still biking. We had a 56 mile ride on Saturday and it left me a bit fatigued for my Sunday run. Definitely not going to push it so I opted for a 4 miler - just enough to get the juices flowing. Once I got going I felt pretty great. The weather was nice (low 40s) with the sun out. I was able to run 9 - 9:15min/mile pace on the flats and deliberately slowed down on hills and never got winded. For me this was a good pregnancy run. On this run there is one terrible hill, it's a short one, but a steep one. It swipes my breath on the run and the bike. I had made a decision up front that I would not push it, that I would just walk it. I got to the bottom of the hill and had slowed down getting ready to take the first walk step when here comes a German Shepherd charging and barking. My speed increased and I panicked as he chased me to the other side of the road. I did get my wits and stop, face him and yell for him to get back. He did a bit, but was not going to back down. I finally managed to get past. I know if he would have meant to hurt me he could have, so I assume he was protecting his home and once I was past that he was fine. It still didn't calm me down. I walked down the hill to get my breath, but of course my emotions got the better of me (hormones) and I had a little cry which didn't help. Finally I was able to breath normally and continue my run home. By the time I got there I was a little angry and frustrated and had to vent to the man friend. He suggested I call animal control. I think I should turn in the owners. His argument was animal control picks up the dog and then the owners have to pay to get it out so it hits them. I worry people that won't even make the effort to keep their dog out of the road (where it could get hit) won't make the effort to pick it up. Maybe I'm too soft, maybe I should have called. Opinions??
In the future I think pepper spray is needed. Just no sense taking chances even when running the city streets of a small town!
Till next time - run on and run safe!
Running will continue (as long as the doctor says I can), but races are on hold. Not to say I won't compete in a 5K here or there, but time will not be a consideration. Maintaining conversation pace is the new speed work. Some days this is tricker than others! (not because I push it, just because I get winded more easily these days). ;-)
So, like I said still running. Also, still biking. We had a 56 mile ride on Saturday and it left me a bit fatigued for my Sunday run. Definitely not going to push it so I opted for a 4 miler - just enough to get the juices flowing. Once I got going I felt pretty great. The weather was nice (low 40s) with the sun out. I was able to run 9 - 9:15min/mile pace on the flats and deliberately slowed down on hills and never got winded. For me this was a good pregnancy run. On this run there is one terrible hill, it's a short one, but a steep one. It swipes my breath on the run and the bike. I had made a decision up front that I would not push it, that I would just walk it. I got to the bottom of the hill and had slowed down getting ready to take the first walk step when here comes a German Shepherd charging and barking. My speed increased and I panicked as he chased me to the other side of the road. I did get my wits and stop, face him and yell for him to get back. He did a bit, but was not going to back down. I finally managed to get past. I know if he would have meant to hurt me he could have, so I assume he was protecting his home and once I was past that he was fine. It still didn't calm me down. I walked down the hill to get my breath, but of course my emotions got the better of me (hormones) and I had a little cry which didn't help. Finally I was able to breath normally and continue my run home. By the time I got there I was a little angry and frustrated and had to vent to the man friend. He suggested I call animal control. I think I should turn in the owners. His argument was animal control picks up the dog and then the owners have to pay to get it out so it hits them. I worry people that won't even make the effort to keep their dog out of the road (where it could get hit) won't make the effort to pick it up. Maybe I'm too soft, maybe I should have called. Opinions??
In the future I think pepper spray is needed. Just no sense taking chances even when running the city streets of a small town!
Till next time - run on and run safe!
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