Our First Half!

Our First Half!

Monday, March 21, 2011

We Did it!


I still can't believe that I was able to run a half marathon. It's unbelievable and I feel the same way Lynn does. I'm so proud of myself and I can't believe I went from barely being a runner at all to running a whole 13.1 miles! Secondly, I still can't get over what an intense feeling it was to have endured the pain to get to the finish AND reach a life goal.

When I first took off, I wasn't really sure what I was doing. I felt like I was going pretty steady and was too scared to go too slow. I then realized that I was passing quite a few people from my corral and heading up to the 4th corral and thought to myself, "I hope I don't burn out." I had never really paced myself since this was my first long race. I was afraid if I started off to fast, I'd be hating myself later. I didn't burn out however, I kept my pace pretty steady the whole race. I think the competition was in my heart. There were a few people in the half that I had my eyes on, two girls who had run this half before (they were decked out in shamrock half marathon gear from a previous year), one older lady who kept flying by me, another girl in a yellow tank, and a girl with a "best in the world" shirt
with a Duke Blue Devils logo. I made sure anytime I grabbed water or slowed in the least, that I caught back up to them or passed them. Luckily they kept the same pace throughout the race, and I kept up with them!

VA beach was a beautiful run. The woods were great, the beach, the lighthouses, everything. And the best part was of course the FLATNESS! I love running on flat roads and trails so this was perfect for me. I'd been training on flat trails, but at a slower pace. I had probably never run more than a mile at even a 9:30 pace. Usually while training I would stop several times to walk or drink water. This was SO different. The adrenaline and the temperature just made me want to keep moving. It was definitely a mental game, but I don't remember thinking how hard it would be or how much distance I had left (which is what I usually do during long runs). Even when it was over I was shocked how fast it went by! Near the end was the part where I pushed myself the most. The girl in the Duke shirt had pushed past me just a little bit, and I took off. I was not going
to let a Dukie beat me!

In the end, I finished in 2 hour
s and 2 minutes and a 9:19 pace. I also finished top 25% in my category which I think is an accomplishment in itself considering this is supposed
to be when you're in your prime! The speedy lady at the end said she was pacing with me too and what an inspiration I was, which was so flattering since this was my first Half and I was pacing with her! I look forward to another half very soon - hopefully in May before foot surgery. I figure it won't be as flat as this, and am prepping myself for a much longer time due to hills. Then it will be rehabilitation which will be another awesome milestone for me (or so I am trying to see it that way).


Until then, I'm looking forward to completing the 10 miler! Yes, completing.... months ago I didn't think this would be possible either! The hills are really going to be a physical and mental challenge but I am looking forward to it!

And last but not least, a very special thanks to Lynn. I love her to death and so happy we could go on this journey together. I will always remember this! If it weren't for her making the commitment to this race together, and pushing each other to complete our training, I would have never accomplished this goal!

WE DID IT!!!!


Well readers, thank you so much for following this blog to track our journey towards completing our first half marathon!  We have officially completed the half and did so with smiles on our faces.  I will tell you about my journey and then Pita can get on here and post about hers! 


some shamrockers getting ready to race!
I was originally planning to run the race like this: divide it into thirds and run the first third with my head, the second third with my personality, and the final third with my heart.  Well, it didn't really work out that way... 



I started the race more excited than I could have ever dreamed I would be.  I was jumping up and down, counting down with the starting line guy...10...9...8...7...etc.  And when he said "GO!", I have never been so thrilled!  I started off at a pretty good pace, not too fast or slow.  I was smiling and waving at all of the people cheering us on and it actually hit me... "I am running a half marathon! The day is finally here and I am actually doing this."  Truth be told, I actually starting tearing up at this point...I was just so overwhelmed that I was accomplishing a goal that I had set for my self so many months before.  Here's another truth: about 9 months ago, the furthest I could run was about a mile and I could only do it in over 10 minutes and had to slow down to walk immediately afterwards...now I was running 13.1 miles and feeling exhilarated!!!  I was smiling and running and waving and saying thank you to everyone I passed. Our bibs had our names printed on them, and it was so amazing to hear people say "good job Carolyn!" talking to me...ME! I was doing a good job?! wow...it was so incredible to have all of that support.  So, there you have it...I ran the first third with my personality.


The next third was a bit tougher...miles 5-8 were pretty tough mentally, not as much physically.  This part I ran with my head.  I knew I had to keep a decent pace if I wanted to be close to my goal of finishing in about 2 hours and 30 minutes.  I just kept on trucking!  There were a couple of DJs along the way...the first one playing Miley Cyrus "Party in the USA" was amazing...I felt like this was MY half marathon and the DJ knew that Miley was my jam!  I just kept on pushing and told myself that if I didn't walk at all then I would be able to say I ran the entire half marathon without walking.  So that's what I did...the only points when I stopped to walk were the brief moments where I got water at the water station...and that's because I'm super clumsy and would have spilled it all over my face otherwise!


The last part I definitely ran with my heart...as planned.  Once I reached mile 9, I knew I was close.  I was so pumped up I was trying to push others around me to get excited too! We were almost there...so close!  I could feel the excitement welling up inside of my chest!  I knew that Matt and my dad were waiting for me at the finish line and I was so excited to have the two of them with me to accomplish this goal.  I was so proud of Arpita for going so fast and I knew she was up there doing great.  I loved having her as a running partner, but in the end, I think it's best we ran our own races...she finished with an incredible time, and I ran the race knowing that I was accomplishing something for myself and that I could do it...the girl who could barely run a mile 9 months ago was finishing 13.1 today.  
Yuengling sandcastle at the end!
As I neared the finish line, I felt the tears coming up again.  When I crossed it, the feeling overwhelmed me and I simply burst into tears...I cannot even attempt to explain the happiness I felt.  It was such a feeling I can't even describe it properly!  You will just have to try it.  To anyone who has doubts about their ability to complete something like this...I just have to say: you CAN do this!  Anything is achievable when you want it enough and are willing to work to get it.  

I was so inspired on Sunday, I am now seriously contemplating running the full marathon at Disney in 2012.  The other runners were such an inspiration and I hope that I served as an inspiration to some of them as well, and to you all who read this blog.  I had one person behind me at the race shout out what was on the back of my shirt to inspire their teammates: "Pain is weakness leaving the body."  I told her that I took the saying from the Marine Corps because it inspired me, and she said she was going to use it next year.  I have a new quote for all of you now, though, and I'm sure you will understand why it is special to me:  "Pain is temporary.  Pride is forever."


I am so proud of my accomplishment and proud of myself for sticking to my plan, sticking to my goals, and completing one of the biggest challenges of my life.  Thank you all so much for all of your support and for following this blog.  And who knows, maybe stay tuned for the next step: Running Towards our First Full Marathon! 
 


Love you all, xoxo Lynn

Monday, March 14, 2011

Less than a week until the half marathon!!!

Well the race is one week away and I am super excited for it!  OK maybe super excited is a slight exaggeration but I am looking forward to conquering this goal.  Yesterday I ran my longest difference ever! 10 Miles!!!  But let's back up another day...

So as I have previously mentioned, I am a huge fan of the Biggest Loser, and I just found out that Tara from season 7 is going to be at our half marathon! (Although she is pretty baller so she is probably running the full)!  So I have been feeling particularly unmotivated since having the flu and was seriously questioning my ability to complete this race.  Fortunately, Matt decided to be my Bob Harper the night before last and gave me a Biggest Loser style workout... meaning I complained, whined, almost cried, swore, and oh yes, fell off the treadmill.  The only part that was missing was puking, and to be honest, I came close!

First he made me run intervals--first sprints for about 12 minutes and then walk uphill at a 12 incline (at about a 3.5 speed) for the next 8 minutes.  Then he made me do a series of ab workouts and then some jumping jacks.  I had to count out loud to 50 jumping jacks...I got weak around 45 and stopped, so he told me I had to do 10 more...that taught me to challenge my trainer! LOL!  Then I ran a mile in 7:36 (1 second away from my 7:35 goal)!!!  I am getting closer!  Then I stretched out some more and then walked up a 10 incline for another 20 minutes.  All in all, it was a fantastic workout--I was incredibly sweaty and worked out!!!

So now we are up to yesterday... my big 10 miler!  This run was both physically painful and mentally challenging.  The hardest part was probably looking down at my pacer/tracker and seeing that I had run 3 miles and knowing that I had 7 more miles to go... talk about a mental test!  I ran on the American Tobacco Trail and it was absolutely gorgeous!  It was a nice 75 degrees out (although this ended up getting a little warm and I got very very thirsty even though I had my trusty water bottle belt!)  It was nice to see all of the families out bike riding together and the other runners...it was very inspiring to see so many people enjoying the outdoors!

I am learning new things about myself and my running style each time I run.  I still need new socks, as I continue to get blisters on my right foot.  I also know that I need to drink wayyy more water before I start the run, as I was very thirsty the entire time I was running--at least they will have water stations along the way to keep me fueled!

In addition to water, runners need proper food to get themselves fueled up.  Now I am by no means the healthiest person in the world, and YES I do sometimes eat ice cream while watching Biggest Loser!  But whatever, that is neither here nor there...

Anyway, I thought I would share with you all a great staple for any runner or athlete who is looking to fuel up in the morning.  I got this recipe from none other than Jillian Michaels...

Take two whole grain waffles and toast them.
Spread each with a 1tsp of almond butter and 1tsp of honey (each waffle).
Then slice a banana and place on top (I used a whole banana although Jillian suggests half--I just don't like saving bananas for later when they are already open and I don't want to waste them either).

Monday, February 21, 2011

Great day for a run!

My route!
Well today was absolutely gorgeous...perfect blue skies and breezy 65 degree temperature...basically the perfect way to start the week.  I don't even know where to start with this one.  Although getting the motivation to start the run wasn't easy, the run itself was amazing.  Aside from the perfect weather, I just felt wonderful...I felt strong and a significant improvement in my stride.  I was nervous starting out because last week's 7-miler was so difficult, but the two runs couldn't have been more different.  Today, I wasn't rushed and I wasn't bored (which I think were both contributing factors to making last week's run so difficult...along with the fact that I hadn't run for almost two weeks due to my health issues discussed in the post before this one).  My attitude today was: just go out there and do this. enjoy it. celebrate it. and do not give up.

Well, it worked!  I ran to the law school and on the way there, I decided that I would run all the way up the hill on HWY 54...the one that I used as an excuse to walk during last week's run.  I ran the entire way up and felt great about it...in spite of the fact that the wind was blowing directly against me...and not a cute little breeze, but actual wind :-(

Then, on the way back from the law school, there was an older couple waiting for the bus and they moved aside so that I could run past them.  As I got closer to them, they said two words to me: "Good job!"  I couldn't even believe it...these complete strangers were being so supportive for someone they didn't even know...it was really inspiring and helped me lengthen my stride a bit.  Once I got to about 4.5 miles, I started getting really thirsty, so I ran in to the Rite Aid and bought a bottle of water and PowerBar Energy Gel Packets.  This was exactly what I needed.  The gel gave me the energy to push through and I kept going and felt strong the whole time.  I actually thought I could have kept going when the run was over!  8.5 miles down in about an hour and a half!  Longest run ever in my life!

When I got home, I decided to take an ice bath (well actually I had decided this before but actually decided to follow through with it when I got home).  Ice baths are supposed to help with muscle inflammation and soreness.  I just followed some instructions from online and drew a cold bath.  I sat in the bath of cold water for 5 minutes and then dumped the bucket of ice in and sat for another 10 minutes.  It was pretty brutal but I feel much better now.  And now I'm writing this to you guys!   I feel fantastic... I'm actually really looking forward to this half marathon now!

I am also feeling fantastic because I am starting to feel like I am accomplishing goals (I can fit into a size 2 again!).  We had our law prom this weekend and I was finally able to fit into the size dress I have been aiming for!  We had a wonderful time...danced the night away and just basically had the best time possible with our friends.  I am so blessed to have such incredible people to share such a special night with :-)  Love you all!!!  You are all so supportive and are my inspiration!


Next up? 9 miles!!!  We are getting closer to the goal!  Less than 30 days until the big race!  Can't wait...I'm actually starting to LIKE running...it's about time :-D

Here is the training schedule for this week:

Stretch &
Strengthen
5 m run
3 m run or cross
5 m run +
strength
Rest or easy run
Rest
10-K Race

Friday, February 11, 2011

Will you get back up?

Well, as many of you may know, I have been struggling with some health stuff lately.  I saw a slew of doctors, each suspecting a different issue creating my problem.  I underwent countless blood tests and examinations, a CT scan and an ultrasound.  I was scheduled to meet with a surgeon for removal of an abscess and then later came to be relieved that the pain I was experiencing was coming from a plum-sized cyst that was hemorrhaging, which will probably not require surgery.  


While I was physically wiped out and exhausted, I struggled through emotional pain as well.  I don't like being sick but I mostly don't like not knowing WHAT is wrong, and what is causing so much pain.  During this time I wished that Dr. House was a real person and that he could come and magically tell me within 45 minutes what was wrong.  I was living on my couch, both because I was physically uncomfortable and because the emotional stress of dealing with this and not being able to continue with my training as planned made me feel as if the world I used to know was suddenly very different.  


After getting the (relatively) good news that it was just a cyst (painful as it may be), my world started looking bright again.  The doctor said I could resume physical exercise as long as I felt comfortable and didn't push myself too hard.  So I started looking up some inspiration online for getting back on track.  I just felt like such a mess...the apartment was dirty, laundry was piling up, I had work to do for classes and I hadn't exercised in over a week.  I found lots of inspiration and the next thing I knew I had a clean kitchen (like the cleanest it's been since I moved in).  Then I moved on to the living and dining room and tidied my life back up.  Then that night (last night) I hit the gym for the first time.  I didn't do much (just some chest presses and a little back work and walked for 2 miles) but I felt invigorated just by being back there and NOT being on the couch.  Here are some of the inspirations I found...hopefully, if you are feeling lazy or bad about yourself because you have fallen into a workout slump, these will help you as they helped me.  I am happy to report that I plan on doing another light walk today and get back on the official training plan as I feel comfortable.  Thank you to all of my friends who have supported me...I can't wait to make you proud after I finish this race!


"Think of yourself as a toy train. All toy trains de-rail now and then. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and get back on track."


"Rather than viewing a brief relapse back to inactivity as a failure, treat it as a challenge and try to get back on track as soon as possible."--Jimmy Connors (American Tennis Player)


"Rest when you're weary.  Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit.  Then get back to work"--Ralph Marston



And my favorite:  Failure is only a fact when you give up. Everyone gets knocked down, the question is: Will you get back up?

Friday, January 28, 2011

Pain is Weakness Leaving the Body

Well I'll just start out this post by telling you how I really feel: SO SORE!  My whole body is sore, with the sorest part being my hamstrings.  Apparently I didn't stretch enough yesterday but they are in a constant state of pain.  I will definitely be enjoying my rest day today!  I think perhaps the issue is that I lifted weights yesterday morning and then ran about a mile and a half.  Then, later in the evening I ran another 3 miles because the schedule called for 4 miles on Thursday.  Needless to say, my body is ready for a break.  Anyway, I titled this post "Pain is Weakness Leaving the Body" because I am hoping that this statement is true.  This quote is on a Marines.com water bottle that I got at the Eve Carson Memorial 5K  (It was in my gift bag for signing up for the race).

When I take it with me onto the treadmill, it makes me feel like I am in control of my body, and myself.  I posted about the Marines a few days ago, but that is because they truly are a wonderful source of motivation and inspiration, and this second "mantra" is another example of why.

I have been noticing changes in myself.  I generally feel stronger, and when I run, I feel much more in control of all of my movements and my breathing.  I feel like my abs are in tighter and my arms are more powerful, not to mention that my legs move with greater stride.  I am feeling a change in the way my body moves, even if I don't see the weight falling off.  All things happen with time and I'm not expecting dramatic changes right away.  I work hard during training to get the results I want... and whenever I reach the point where I feel I can't go anymore, I just remember that pain is weakness leaving the body.

Monday, January 24, 2011

"Do not quit. Do not give up."

Finished week 4 with 60 total miles logged since beginning training!  I have completed about 79% of all of the scheduled workouts because I took all that time off when I went to Vegas and leading up to it.  Last night I did my long run (5 miles) in a pretty decent time of 48:55.  I considered this to be impressive because I took the first mile very slow and completed it in 13 minutes, so for the remaining 4 miles I ran under a 9 minute mile! woohoo!  During week 4, I logged a total of 24 miles, 14 of those miles being running workouts (the rest was cycling/walking).  So not bad going into week 5!  


Tonight, I did BodyCombat at o2 Fitness.  Wow, what a workout!  It was basically a mix of taekwondo, karate, boxing, tai chi, and muay thai.  I was sweating up a storm and really pushing myself.  This class is definitely one of those "it's as hard as you want it to be" classes.  You can do wimpy jabs and just go through the motions or you can put your heart into it and really throw yourself into all of the movements.  I chose option number two and made every motion count.  The teacher was really into it and was really good at pushing us to go harder.  She reminded me of Jillian Michaels but maybe that's just wishful thinking since I am now addicted to the Biggest Loser.  

Ada the Terminator
Before: 258 lbs
After: 159 lbs

Yes, this is my new obsession.  The finale of the Biggest Loser Season 10 got me through last night's 5 miler because it was SO inspiring (I watch it on my phone using HuluPlus).  Those people make a commitment to change their lives for the better and get healthy, and that's kind of what I'm doing, albeit on a much much smaller scale....no pun intended ;-) I was particularly inspired by one of the top 3 finalists from season 10: Ada (the terminator).  This girl started out very overweight and insecure and ended up dropping about 100 pounds and discovering how to accept who she is.  She was the girl in the house who motivated all of the other women and always kicked butt in the gym (hence the name "Ada the Terminator").  While her weight loss is incredible, it was her drive and determination that inspired me the most.  She rose up from a life where she felt worthless and became someone she could be proud of and finally realized that she IS good enough.  Her mental and emotional strength was as admirable as her physical strength.  She is an incredibly inspiring woman and I'm sure she has encouraged many across the country to step up and make the commitment to a healthier lifestyle.


During Week 7 of Season 10, the contestants trained with the Marines on base.  One Marine repeated a "mantra" that I think is particularly relevant to my training, as well as anyone else who is seeking to achieve a goal:  "Do not quit. Do not give up."  So simple, and yet very powerful.  That phrase is easy to remember and will always come to my mind when I think I want to stop during a run or not finish the last reps of my strength training.  Completing any race is not just a physical test, but a mental one as well, and I will need to work on training my mind as well as my body to complete this half (yes, I just came to this realization).  Having these short phrases of encouragement will remind me to keep focused and have my eyes on the prize (or the finish line).  

In the second to last episode, the top four finalists ran a marathon.  YES, that's right, a marathon.  Ada finished the marathon in 4 hours and 38 minutes, setting a new Biggest Loser record for fastest female time.  That is definitely faster than I would probably be able to do one right now (if I could even do one).  It just goes to show that hard work, focus, and having good concrete goals can help you achieve more than you ever thought possible.  

My current goals are:
Run 5 miles in under 45 minutes
Beat Ada's mile time (from the show) of 7:35
and the obvious one: complete the VA Beach Half Marathon in 55 days!

Thank all of you who follow this blog...it helps keep me motivated!  You all are my inspiration!


Here is what's on tap for Week 5:

Mon:
Stretch &
Strengthen
Tues:
4 m run
Wed:
2 m run or cross
Thurs:
4 m run +
strength
Fri:
Rest
Sat:
40 min
cross
Sun: 
6 m run

Saturday, January 22, 2011

50 Total Miles (since starting training)!!!

So tonight I reached 50 total miles logged since joining DailyMile and beginning the training for the half marathon!  I have logged 14 miles this week (a record since starting) and am feeling great!  Today was supposed to be a "rest" day but since I rested so much last week I figured it would be okay to not take it.  I've been watching a lot of "Biggest Loser" lately and it is so inspiring.  I want to lose weight too (an undisclosed amount...don't want too much pressure!) but obviously not as much as those contestants.  But if they can lose hundreds of pounds, why can't I drop the ones that are bugging me?  So I figure with the running and eating more fruits/vegetables, that will help a lot.  I'm also considering taking some boxing classes at LA Boxing, although I need to look into things such as pricing.  Anyway, instead of taking a rest day, I walked for 5 miles, varying the incline.  It felt great and I didn't strain myself.  I walked in my EasyTones (which I love) and watched Biggest Loser on my iPhone.  All in all?  Great way to end the day!  

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Back after a One Week Hiatus (so embarrassing and sorry to my followers...)

Well everyone, I am BACK...officially back.  No more slacking off (hopefully)...it's time to get serious about this training.  Last week I was terrible.  I did ONE lousy run!  (3.5 miles).  To be fair...last week was VERY busy for me.  I ran on Tuesday but then Wednesday I had a day packed from 10am to 10pm and Thursday night I had poker night with the girls...I am NOT skipping that just to do a run (okay I probably could have run between school and poker night... but what did I do instead?  Baked this).  Then I had girls poker night and obviously that lasted into the night and was super fun.  Then I had to go home and pack to go to VEGAS for the weekend with my boyfriend who booked us a trip for my Christmas present, and also to celebrate our one year anniversary (we didn't get to celebrate it in Oct. because we had classes).  Anywayyy, we stayed at Caesar's Palace and had a blast!  I took a million pictures of both our stay in Vegas and the trip to the Grand Canyon.  Unfortunately, to go to the gym at Caesar's costs $25 a day (OMG!) so I decided to skip that and just get back to my running when I got back.  I felt okay about that because we had to run to catch our flight to Vegas and also had to run to make sure we didn't miss our bus to the Grand Canyon, so all in all, we did a little running ;-)

In front of the Venetian after seeing Jersey Boys!

Anyway, tonight I ran 3.5 miles at a pretty slow pace but honestly I was feeling really sluggish and unfortunately I have put on a couple pounds from our amazing vacay (I don't care...that burger was totally worth it).  I've really got to start losing some weight if I want to improve my speed (or at least that's what I keep telling myself).  okay okay I will stop beating myself up and will continue the training as if nothing has happened...  Here is what is on tap for this week:


Mon:
Stretch &
Strengthen
Tues:
3.5 m run
Wed:
2 m run or cross
Thurs:
3.5 m run +
strength
Fri:
Rest
Sat:
40 min
cross
Sun:
5 m run

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Week 3

A summary of week 3:

Pretty similar to last week. I left out the strengthening again this week.... my knee is sore still but only when laying down and sitting mostly. I hope to add strength training this week. I did some stretching but more in the form of yoga which still makes it hard with my knee. I did part of the cross training but not all of it. My schedule has been tough with school starting back and juggling both my jobs but hopefully things will work out better.

I did however keep up with the running part - I feel like that is the most important. I got the running done without increase in time really but they were good solid runs and my mental state was a lot more positive than it usually is on long runs! On to week 4!

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Update!

So It's mid-week for week 3 of training.

First week - not so good.
Second Week - Pretty ok.
Third Week - although not awesome, I'm feeling really good.

Sunday was the long run and I ran four miles on the American Tobacco Trail. It was cold but it went really well. My hubs really pushed me to go faster. He does this thing where he runs two steps ahead and it keeps me pretty motivated. My knee was feeling awesome after this run also! We did a little yoga after which was a lot harder on my knee than the running.

For this week I started out with a little more yoga. There was no strength training - oops. Last night I did my 3.5 run. I did it on the treadmill because it's so chilly outside and super icy/snowy. Man did I forget how it was to run on a treadmill! I was bored out of my mind! Back in the day I could run and run and run on one, but since I've been running outside it's not nearly the same.

Little bummed today because I didn't do any cross or run 2 miles. I planned to but classes started up. I think if I can keep my spirits off and give my self some slack if I don't complete a training day I should be fine. I hope to at the least keep up with the runs... but I want to do most of the training as possible!

Hooray for a great start to our half :)


Sunday, January 9, 2011

Week 2 Complete!

Well, finished up Week 2 of the Half Marathon Training Program!  Have to be honest and say that this week did not go as smoothly as the first, but I got it done!  Today (Sunday) is the designated day for the "long run" that will continue to increase by one mile each week until the end.  Today's run was 4 miles (just like last week).  I ran it in just over a 10 min. mile average pace because I was doing the run/walk drill again (run 1 mile, walk 1 min.) to avoid further injuring my knee.  I warmed up my legs by doing 20 minutes on the bike (a little over 4 miles).  The run went pretty well...the music videos help keep me going...both in that they prevent me from getting bored and because they get me motivated.  

 Watch this and tell me this video doesn't get you all inspired to kick @$$ at the gym!  I watched it 3 times during my run today... LOVE Shakira!

I came home after my run and made a delicious "Hawaiian Breeze" Protein Shake.  Here are the ingredients:
1 scoop of EAS Vanilla Protein Powder
1 small banana
1/2 cup frozen or fresh pineapple
1/4 cup unsweetened organic orange juice
1/2 cup of Silk Soy Milk or Low-Fat Organic Milk 
It was so smooth and tasted amazing!  I felt like I should be hanging out by the pool drinking it.  It completely refreshed me after a hard run and I will definitely be making it again!  I also posted another protein shake recipe on my other blog with my friends "Cooking to Graduation."  That protein shake recipe was for a Blueberry Banana Protein Shake and is also one of my favorites!


And here is the schedule for next week (WEEK THREE)!


Mon:
Stretch &
Strengthen
Tues:
3.5 m run
Wed:
2 m run or cross
Thurs:
3.5 m run +
strength
Fri:
Rest
Sat:
40 min
cross
Sun:
5 m run






Final update:  I made the "Skinny Girl" Kir Royale that I posted a few days ago and can totally vouch for it!!! It was absolutely delicious! I've also started putting frozen raspberries in my iced tea to kind of jazz it up a bit (although I use fresh raspberries for the Kir Royale--see image at right).  


I have started making iced tea with my new tea pot that I got for Christmas from my precious sister!  I brew the tea hot and then put it into a pitcher in the fridge.  It's ready to drink in about an hour (otherwise it may melt the ice and it probably would taste watered down).  This was a perfect gift for me because I love tea, as many of you may have already seen on our cooking blog. A couple of months ago, I wrote a blog post about teas and why you should consider substituting tea for coffee.  I drink a lot of tea and suggest you all do as well!  If you are addicted to sodas, you may want to consider substituting iced tea (unsweet) instead and sweetening it yourself.  It tastes great and is much healthier for you than soda, just ask my awesome sister who quit drinking soda over Christmas break...so proud! :)  


Thanks to all my followers for keeping me accountable during this training... I have to work extra hard because I know I have to report back to all of you, so thanks!!

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

What to do when you have a bad day...

Ugh today was awful...I woke up with a migraine and horrible back/neck pain.  I think I'm stressed because of the bar exam application (which I mailed yesterday...yay!) and my body also probably isn't used to all the stress I'm putting on it training for this half.  So today I followed the cardinal rule of training: Listen to your body! I listened to my body and got a massage...then walked for a bit. Training said I should run 2 miles today, and while that definitely didn't happen, I walked for about 35 minutes, and completed 1.46 miles.  It was a really relaxed pace but honestly I don't think I could have done more with how I was feeling...I hadn't left the couch all day except to grab lunch and get a massage and so getting up to go to the gym was the last thing on my mind.  Matt convinced me that if I at least got my body moving and blood circulating it would help me feel better... so I threw on my Reebok Easytones (my fabulous walking shoes that I will have to blog about another time), and got off the couch.  It was pretty miserable at first but I do feel a little better having moved around. 


I watched a little "Without a Trace" on the TV at the gym and read Health Magazine during the commercials... pretty relaxing honestly, I don't know if I should even be blogging about this as a workout.  I did find this really yummy recipe in Health which is a good substitute for a Kir Royale (my new favorite drink that I recently discovered over Christmas break!).  This is the "Skinny Girl" version created by Bethenny Frankel who I ADORE.  I took a picture of it because I didn't want to type it all out while on the treadmill.  So without further ado:  

As far as my training goes, yesterday was a better day... I ran 3 miles at a comfortable pace of about 6mph.  Tomorrow we are scheduled to do another 3 miles so I'm glad I took today as pretty much a rest day.  




"When I'm training for a marathon, I soak in a hot tub every day, and get a weekly massage." --Anne Marie Lauck, two-time Olympian 
Good, she does it too...I don't feel so bad for taking a personal day :)

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

More Music and Running Tips

I love DailyMile.  I have made so many new running friends and have been able to have better contact with some older friends!  One of my DailyMile friends (Jo) suggested I check into this website that she stumbled across which outlines good music.  I looked through it and it is definitely worth passing along.  Not to say that I am really good at picking out music but a lot of the songs on here are already on the playlist I gave you!!  There are plenty of other songs on here though...some of which I have never heard of but will definitely check out.  There are also one other song I listen to when I strength train that I didn't mention in the last post.  I also downloaded "The Final Zepp" by Charlie Clouser from the Saw3d soundtrack.  Yes it is a bit creepy, however, if you can get past that, it is the most intense music ever and really makes you want to push all the way to the last rep! 


Music suggestions from Fitness Magazine:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/music/popular-playlists/100-best-workout-songs/?sssdmh=dm17.499590&esrc=nwfitdailytip010411&email=1132199595


Also, my good friend Molly sent me this article this morning and I thought I would share it.  It is 101 Running tips.  Helps with motivation and such.  I will periodically post some of them on the blog if you don't feel like looking through them but here is one to hold you over: "I believe in using races as motivators. It's hard to keep on an exercise program if you don't have a significant goal in sight." --Bob Greene, personal trainer of Oprah Winfrey
Running Tips:
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/running-tips-beginners-guide

Monday, January 3, 2011

First day of Week 2: Stretch and Strength



Hey guys, hope you are enjoying the blog!  Today was a day for "Stretch and Strengthen" ("S&S") and so I chose to do both by following along with a Pilates video by Shape magazine.  I've owned this DVD for about 3-5 years now and had only watched it once before, if that!  It went great!  The workout went by really quickly.  I could definitely feel the burn but in a very controlled way so a bit different from running.  Definitely helped me stretch out my hip flexors too.  All in all, I think it was a great little workout.  I will probably get a couple more DVDs just so I don't get really sick of this one.  I also have a 3-pack yoga DVD so I'll probably whip one of those out on my next S&S day.

The DVD was great and came with some useful tips on Pilates form that I will share with you here:

Pelvis: Stabilize the pelvis.  Contract your abs and do not tighten your glutes.
Rib Cage: Keep abs in.  Engage the abs and keep them pulled in to prevent lower ribs from flaring out, causing your back to arch.
Shoulder Blades: Hold shoulders down.  Try to draw them flat against your rib cage.
Head and Neck: Always align head and neck with the line of your spine.  Do not hyperextend.

Make sure to breathe!

 Muggsy also likes pilates :-)

Also, if you are looking for something delicious to refuel from a good workout, try this quick fix: Fage Greek Yogurt (no fat and tons of protein) and add in some frozen berries (I used mixed--raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries) and add on some blueberry Special K.  I let it sit next to me for about 5 minutes before eating it so that the berries would thaw out a little bit.

Running Playlist

I have received a few requests to update my followers on a running playlist.  So here's the deal, I get motivated by seeing other people who look good (i.e. fitness models and celebrities) even though those people's jobs revolve around looking good so they have to work out and most likely have a personal trainer to help them.  So what I do is that I watch music videos when I'm on the treadmill and just listen to music when I'm running outside.  I will give you both "playlists" although I am constantly adding songs or skipping songs that I'm sick of.  Here they are as of Jan. 3... enjoy!!!


Music Playlist:
Mausam & Escape by AR Rahman-- from the Slumdog Millionaire soundtrack and it is a MUST DOWNLOAD!  seriously, every time this song comes on my playlist I increase my speed by about 2mph.  So inspiring!
Liquid Dance by AR Rahman--also from Slumdog Millionaire--I like these first two songs because they have no words/lyrics, so it is harder to get sick of them
Jai Ho--ok last one from Slumdog Millionaire but this stuff gets me going!
Just Dance by Lady Gaga--I prefer the "RedOne Remix" featuring Kardinal Offishall
Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus--sometimes I'm a teeny-bopper
F**ck You by Cee-Lo Green--LOVE this song...one of my new faves
Misery by Maroon 5
Imma Be by the Black Eyed Peas--this is good for a warm-up or cool down or when you want to slow jog--not too fast of a tempo so not great for when you want to sprint really fast
Back in Black by ACDC--the beginning part especially is great to pump you up
La belle et le bad boy by MC Solaar--this is French and is from a Sex and the City episode and I love it...I can listen to it on repeat
Piece of Me by Britney Spears--any song that has attitude is generally a good choice


Music Video Playlist:
I'm Glad by Jennifer Lopez--one of my all-time favorites.  It never got popular so it wasn't overplayed and the video is awesome--her body is amazing and it is themed around Flashdance so it's really fun.  Plus J.Lo's body is a somewhat realistic goal because she isn't a stick figure
LoveGame by Lady GaGa--great music video and Lady Gaga has a surprisingly good body as well
Stronger by Britney Spears--not going to lie, I got sick of this one very quickly and skip it a lot
Just Dance by Lady GaGa--good song, video is alright but the music is good
Alejandro by Lady GaGa--video is so weird, think Madonna "Like a Prayer" but it is entertaining and is 8 minutes long (I would skip the first couple of minutes)
F**ck You by Cee-Lo Green--love this song and the video is really cute/funny
Like a G6 by Far East Movement--good song, might get stuck in your head, video not incredibly entertaining
Poker Face by Lady GaGa--ok yes, I am obsessed with Lady GaGa, you caught me
Jenny from the Block by Jennifer Lopez--oldie but a goodie and I don't care if you guys make fun of me haha
Whenever, Wherever by Shakira--Shakira has a great body too and I never get sick of this song--probably because it is 9 years old and they never play it on the radio anymore (these are generally the kinds of videos I recommend because you are less likely to get sick of them)
Hips Don't Lie (Feat. Wyclef Jean) by Shakira--great song, makes you want to move!
Gimme More by Britney Spears--because no gym experience is complete without Britney
Candyman by Christina Aguilera--I had never heard of this before I went to download Dirty and it wasn't there!!!! (for shame) so I had to download this instead...I love it...the swing music and Christina are super entertaining...obviously she is beautiful and her body is amazing in it too so that helps with motivation--the song itself is catchy and will probably make you want to dance on the treadmill ha!
Replay by Iyaz--can't really explain why I like this, I just do...very catchy
Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira-- this song is so inspirational...it is the World Cup song for 2010 and so it shows a bunch of highlights from World Cups in the past--so inspiring!
Wait a Minute by Pussycat Dolls--this song is awesome, can't say enough good things about it
Promiscuous by Nelly Furtado--good beat and fun to run to

Sunday, January 2, 2011

Blah

Well I am not much of a blogger but I know posting something will keep my better half running partner happy and enthusiastic about this blog AND also provide more motivation towards our training. So proud of my little Lynn for working so hard this week!

My first week of training has been a complete failure. Not only am I sick sick sick (with congestion, headaches, and a non-operable breathing passages) but I also tweaked my knee very badly skiing at Lake Tahoe. I figured if I ran it would just make matters worse and I would become more depressed that my training was turning into operation couch potato.

Hopefully this week I'll start moving and keeping to the training schedule like Lynn. However, I am not sure how far I will be able to run until my knee aches. At this point, I am still uncomfortable sleeping because of my knee alignment. I have to keep it perfectly straight so that it doesn't hurt. Boo :( This isn't how I imagined training but I still have high hopes and we still have some time!

So glad that Lynn is getting pumped for a 2012 Disney Marathon - even if it means we are getting ahead of ourselves that idea that we will still be running after this half is super exciting :)

Last day of Week 1

Hello bloggers! Well, I finished up Week 1 of training with a 4 mile run. It did not go well to be honest. I learned a valuable lesson today...never run on a full stomach. Here is the TMI of my run: burping, cramping, flat out miserable run. But I finished...I guess that's the good news, just not in a great time (42:55). I knew on my way to the gym that I felt crappy, so I planned to do the run 1 mile, walk 1 minute routine. It worked out pretty well but I just felt sloppy and sluggish the whole time. Tomorrow is S&S (Stretch and Strengthen). I will probably do a yoga or pilates video...kind of take a day to relax a bit because Tuesday it's back to running :) Here is the schedule for Week 2:
Mon:
Stretch &
Strengthen
Tues:
3 m run
Wed:
2 m run or cross
Thurs:
3 m run +
strength
Fri:
Rest
Sat:
30 min
cross
Sun:
4 m run

And while this is not flattering, here is my post-run picture so I can show you all that I actually did it hahah! Yes I'm sweaty and gross and feel nasty but I completed Week 1 of training! WOOHOO!!!

Saturday, January 1, 2011

New PR (Personal Record--yep I'm learning the lingo)

Hello bloggers and followers! Today was great...I had to do 30 min. cross today as part of my week 1 training. I was planning to just kind of take it easy and just do 3o minutes relaxed pace on the bike (truthfully, it was because I was feeling super lazy). I started out going pretty slow until Matt told me "start over" and said that I needed to break 10K in 20 minutes. I thought OK sure... last time I tried to do that I ended up doing about 5.65 miles in 20 minutes so I didn't really think I would make it. But about half-way through, I realized I actually MIGHT be able to do this...so I started pushing. Then, kind of half joking (ok seriously I was like 95% joking) I told him I wanted to do 10 miles in 30 minutes. Once I hit the 10K in 19:33, I realized this actually might be a possibility, so I decided to go for it. It was hard and I definitely felt the burn but it was so worth it just to set a PR! Happy with my training so far! :) I have also been looking into the Walt Disney World Marathon (YES the full and YES I might be a little bit crazy?!) Anyway, Arpita is the one who suggested I look into it and all it took was watching the video on the website to make me want to partake in the 2012 race. Matt watched the video with me last night and now he is wanting to go in on it too. The video is on the homepage: http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/rundisney/wdw-marathon/. I'm ALSO hoping that my friend Molly and her BF will join us as well (although she is MUCH more legit than me...she has already completed a half-marathon)...she's also the one that got me onto the DailyMile! Tomorrow is the long run for week 1 (4 miles)...Update you all tomorrow after that!