Unthinkable Advice From an Imp

06 Apr 2013 2 Comments

by lexa in Fitness, Inspiration Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Addiction – noun –  The state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma.

ORIGIN 1595-1605: <L a giving over, surrender.

Webster

My actions this morning would most likely label me as an addict or classify me as just down right crazy.  I probably should not have done it, but I could not help but to surrender to my habit…   I ran!

What’s so bad about that?  Well–Five days ago I ran 7.76 miles.  Ideal weather and the fact that I felt great inspired me to run 10 miles, until my knee began to stiffen.  Through the stiffness a biting and intense pain shot up the side of my left  knee.  This was a new pain to my mature knee.  It hurt enough to force me to walk home, but even walking caused pain, but I hobbled along gingerly while listening to my music and feeling grateful for the outdoor run.

At home, in reverse hoisting myself butt first, I drug myself up the stairs to shower and back down the stairs to the ice, ibuprofen, and then the sofa. I stayed on the sofa until bed time.  Overnight, a pillow comforted my knee.

Surprisingly the next morning, my knee was a little stiff, but no pain.  For the next three days I pampered my knee.  I also scheduled an appointment to see a doctor who specializes in sports medicine.  If I can side track for a moment– Who better to see than a physician, who understands the body, mind, and spirit of an athlete.  Did I just say “athlete?”  Lol!!  Yup!  While sadly no one pays me to run, I’m still am an athlete at heart. And heart is what matters…right?

Non sports doctors just tell you that you’re old and to go sit down somewhere. They are rarely up on the latest techniques that treat sports related injuries.   I can’t and won’t settle for that mess. I plan to run and workout for as long as I can do for myself.

Anyway, my son participates in a two-hour basketball clinic on Saturday mornings.  There are three treadmills positioned among other work out equipment.  I have yet to see one person walk, run, or sit on them. Are you getting the picture yet?

While washing clothes on Friday night, an intense urge to run starts setting in.    I’ve got a mischievous imp on one shoulder saying, “Go ahead girl, give it a try. This will be a good test for your knee.  If it hurts, just stop running.”  The imp’s angelic twin says “Don’t even think about it, you could do more harm to your knee. My dear, you must have patience.”

It’s Saturday morning… here are my stats from the treadmill.  LOL!!!!  I did the unthinkable… I ran and it felt so damn good!!!!!! Ha!  Ha!!

6 miles on the treadmill today! Woo hoo!! (4/6/13)

6 miles on the treadmill today! Woo hoo!! (4/6/13)

This is my time, including my warm up walk on the treadmill. I wanted to run longer. :)

This is my time, including my warm up walk on the treadmill. I wanted to run longer. :) By the way, sorry about the blur; it’s the picture not your eyes.

Hello! Can you say CALORIES!! There is margin for error on treads, but I'll take this!

Hello! Can you say CALORIES!! There is a margin for error on treads, but I’ll take this!

I know, I am certifiable crazy, but there are others out there in this world who understands my addiction.  Depending on your perspective, I’m either a stubborn behind athlete or a relentless junkie addicted to the endorphins.  The emotional high was well worth the risk. I needed this run.  It helped me to cope with the fact that I won’t be running in tomorrow’s Revel’s 2013 April Fools Half Marathon.  This will be the first year that I don’t particpate, so I am disappointed.   It is the only time that you get to run through the streets of Atlantic City without dodging cars, buses, and jitneys.  The run is peaceful, sceneic and loads of fun.

During my run on the treadmill this morning,  I stopped myself from busting out in laughter (as I do outside on the roadways) and softly singing along with my  music.  I had so much fun running (on pins and needles) this morning.  Some guy, who I didn’t realize was watching me, asks, “Are you from Kenya or something?!?”  I laughed and told him that I was actually taking it easy today.  He looked at me like I had two heads!!  Gotta love it!  Although I desperately longed for more intensity, I kept my speed between 5.5 mph and 6.5 mph. Grrr…

My doctor’s appointment is 12 days away, so this week I won’t run anymore but instead will focus on exercises that strengthen my hamstrings and quadriceps.  Will I run at my son’s practice next week?  ABSOLUTELY!  I am “enslaved to physical habit.”  Let’s pray that I caused no trauma to my knee.

Come on folks; tis the season to hit the road!  Keep it movin’!

Related articles

Anticipation!

21 Oct 2012 2 Comments

20121021-072747.jpg

Good morning! I am in the car (hubby is driving) on my way to Atlantic City to run the Half-Marathon.

I am filled with anticipation. Lol! I know it was just last week that i ran a little further, but running it with fellow athletes makes the run more enjoyable.

I am fueled up and rested and eager to get started. Wish me luck.!

 

Image by lexa

I run because it’s so symbolic of life

07 Oct 2012 3 Comments

by lexa in Family Living, Fitness, Inspiration Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

“I run because it’s so symbolic of life. You have to drive yourself to overcome the obstacles. You might feel that you can’t. But then you find your inner strength, and realize you’re capable of so much more than you thought.”
–Arthur Blank

Today’s run…

7.51 Miles
1:12:22
9.37 Minute/Miles (Average)
5:54 Minute/Miles (Max)
780 Calories burned

Somewhere around mile five (5) or so, the rain continues; it has not stopped.  My ear buds are wet and continue to fall out of my ears.  Jill (Scott) bellows, “I’m magnificent” and I agree.  I feel free.  I’m wet but it doesn’t matter.  I don’t care.  I don’t care that my natural hair is drenched, I don’t care that my new sneaks are wet, and I certainly don’t give a damn that it’s 50 some degrees outside.  My heart beats at a steady velocity.

Closing my eyes, while moving forward I consume a huge batch of cool damp, yet refreshing air.  My lungs and my body approve.  Another favorite song blares in my ear.  Oh, this feels so good! I am so happy that I could literally shed tears of joy.  It is so hard to explain.  I am engrossed in an intoxicating moment.  Nothing matters.  Physically I feel boundless.  Spiritually I am blessed.  I cannot think of a single reason to complain.  The drama of an earlier week is miles behind me.

The previous week had been one of extreme highs and lows —all relative to parenting.

Committed and active parents recognize crucial and defining moments; times when the most painful and the most difficult decisions are made, all for the benefit of our children.

It is easier to “talk-the-talk” than it is to “walk-the-walk.  A critical juncture presented itself.  Hubby and I discussed the issue and made an extremely difficult but necessary parental decision.   Carrying out the decision took me to an ultimate low place where I never envisioned for myself.  Afterwards, I meditated. I prayed.

As parents, we would like to believe that 18+ years of sacrifice, good teaching, and committed parenting will result in young adults who make smart choices.  Not true. Our children stumble and make bad choices, as we once (and sometimes still do) did. Nevertheless, we are there for them and continue to guide and to support them.

However, there are moments when tough love is the best and only medicine to administer.  Tough love is painful for both parents and our children–We both learn from this experience.  This I know.

That same week, I experienced a supreme high.  My nine-year –old, who is the fastest player on his Pee Wee football team, scored his first official touchdown.  The touchdown came as a result of his intercepting an offensive pass.

Once I realized that he had possession of the ball, I was content.  I knew that no one could catch him.  He sprinted 30-40 yards hugging the football as if the ball was his Sony DSI game and a playmate was trying to steal it.  Although he is outrageously fast, the coaches rarely give him the ball to carry (that’s another story), but he was ready for the opportunity and convincingly delivered.

I don’t know which was best… the joy on my son’s face as he bumped chests of a teammate in the end one or my hubby’s elation as he literally jumped, screamed, and punched the air in excitement.   His team won the game, which made the touchdown all the better.

Runners experience similar highs and lows.  Highs—when we are healthy, strong, and meet or exceed our personal goals; Lows—when we’re injured, wounded, experience setbacks, or simply have bad days,

“…but then you find your inner strength, and realize you’re capable of so much more than you thought.”

The sentiment is true.  Regardless if you’re running, trying to make it through a tough day with the family, dealing with a challenging week at work or experiencing a problem in another area of your life, seek out your inner strength because you are capable of getting through the difficult time. This you must believe.

Staying fit for race day

23 Sep 2012 2 Comments

by lexa in Fitness, Inspiration Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The higher your energy level, the more efficient your body. The more efficient your body, the better you feel and the more you will use your talent to produce outstanding results. – Anthony Robbins

With every step my muscles ache.  Walking up and down the steps hurt.  The process of sitting down and getting up hurts. I squatted down to clean behind the toilet and that hurt too!  My ham(strings) and quadriceps ache.  Lol!  You’d think that as much as I work out, I am immune to soreness.  The reality is if you work out, you ought to feel something (soreness not pain) from your workout.

The last thing you want is for your body to get accustomed to your workout.  My fitness instructors have taught me well.  “You’ve gotta shock the body!”

Today I ran.  Yesterday I did CrossFit. Different from my regular class, but the workout was challenging and I feel it today.

This afternoon’s WOD was a run.

Distance:   8 Miles

Duration:   1:13:37

Pace:          9:11 min/miles (average)
7:00 min/miles (maximum)

Calories:     793

Yesterday’s WOD

Round One:   1,000 meters – Row Machine

50 Thrusters

 35 Pull ups (used green band for assistance)

Round Two:   500 Meters – Row Machine

25 Thrusters

15 Pull ups (used green band)

Round Three: 250 Meters – Row Machine

 15 Thrusters

7 Pull ups (used green band)

It had been six days since my last run and three weeks since I took my favorite CrossFit Chicks class.  June through August, I am euphoric with my fitness routine.  I work out as often as I want—at least once, sometimes twice each day.

September rolls around and my routine comes to a screeching halt. Oh boy!  Every year I struggle with the change.

October 21st, I am running the half-marathon (13.1 miles) in the annual Atlantic City Marathon.  While I trained hard the entire summer, my schedule tapers off just a month before the race.   My runs are now limited to weekends. I barely go to the gym.  Trying to stay conditioned for the race is the challenge.  I do the best that I can with my schedule.  Although I am not happy, I work with my schedule and fit the workouts in as best I can.

The change in my schedule is because I have returned to work, my son is back in school, he plays football, and hubby’s work schedule has changed.  Homework, practice, and games adversely impact my fitness schedule.

My struggle is the same as other moms.   We are constantly playing the balancing game.  You know, balancing the kids schedule with our own personal want to do’s.

Case in point,   I started this post around three this afternoon.  It is now a little after ten at night and I’m finally getting back to finishing it.  Lol!

Regardless I stay focused on my goal of completing the half-marathon and beating my personal record.  Between now and October 21st, I will work on staying injury free and keeping my body conditioned.

For now—I have to get some much-needed rest.

Sweet dreams!  Good night!

 

 

We run because…

30 Aug 2012 Leave a Comment

by lexa in Fitness, Inspiration Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

“We run, not because we think it is doing us good, but because we enjoy it and cannot help ourselves…The more restricted our society and work become, the more necessary it will be to find some outlet for this craving for freedom. No one can say, ‘You must not run faster than this, or jump higher than that.’ The human spirit is indomitable.”

-Sir Roger Bannister, first runner to run a sub-4 minute mile

I did not feel like running this morning. I wanted to stay in my comfortable bed, snuggled under the covers, to sleep and then to read. I ran anyway.  Why?  Because of several reasons:

  1. I read yesterday’s blog post (to critique it) and the post inspired me to run anyway.
  2. Next week is the beginning of the hectic family routine.  The “routine” limits my  flexibly to run as frequent as I do during the summer.
  3. In October I will run the half-marathon in the 2012 Atlantic City Marathon.  I need to stay conditioned for the run because I want to beat my best time.
  4. A family member invited me over for brunch today–fried fish is on the menu.  Need I say more?

My running stats for the day are:

7.18 Miles
1:09:12 Duration
746 Calories Burned
9:37 Minute/Miles (Pace)

I’m so glad that I ran today and feel better for doing so. I hope that you have a great day!  Remember…keep it moving!

Post Broad Street Run

06 May 2012 2 Comments

by lexa in Family Living, Fitness, Inspiration, Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

The is the front of the line where the 4 minute milers are positioned. Yes! That read 4 minute milers! Lol!

I ran! I conquered!  At least that’s how I feel. Lol!  After a much-needed warm and bubbly bath, my feet are propped up on the sofa.  My son is hypnotized by his Nintendo 3DS game, while my hubby and my daughter are getting their sleep on.  I thought I’d be sleep, but I’m not sleepy… yet.Truly blessed is how I feel.  After getting about 4 ½ hours of sleep, my hubby, daughter and son got up at 5:00 a.m. today to go with me one hour away to Philadelphia for the run.  I was dropped off near the start of the run and they set off to park and to coax our son on to take part in the kids events.  He did not participate.  It was probably too early for him.  What I love most about running events is that there is an abundance of comradely. Runners of all age, gender, ethnicity, race, religion, social status, income, and physical ability all come out.  Most are supportive and encouraging. 

Along the course, I saw a young mom pause from running to bottle feed her baby in a jogger’s stroller.  Not even an infant prevented her from partaking in the annual run.  If she can do this, surely anyone can.

  A healthy life style is a conscious decision. 

Confinement to a wheel chair hasn’t stopped this participant!

You choose to participate. Runners of all shapes sizes and ability run the course.  The time on the official clock is of no importance to the average runner.  What ultimately matters about time is that living a healthy lifestyle may add to one’s life. I said, “may.”  I know that only life and death are guaranteed.

Mom loathes when I speak of a healthy lifestyle.  She is quick to name those who ate well, never smoked, and exercised yet died from cancer or another terminal illness.  I also point out the data that supports the principles of maintaining a fit régime, but it doesn’t matter. 

I believe that to change our perspective we must be open to new ideas.  If we’re not open to new viewpoints, then no amount of data or persuasion can adjust a person’s thinking.  I accept that and stop trying to convince her to take better care of herself.  She believes that at 78 no one can change.  That is her truth, which I now respect.

Most runners set personal goals.  Perhaps complete the race because it is their first run.  Possibly run the entire event versus a walk-run.  I try to improve my time but regardless, I am overjoyed at completing another organized running event and wish that I could bottle the feeling for other days that are more challenging.  What’s next?  I don’t know, but more running for sure.  I also want complete a mud run and a triathlon. Don’t they sound like fun?  Lol!

Here are more pictures from the Broad Street Run.

Okay so if you are incredibly fast, you do receive special treatment. No!! I am not nor have I ever been considered an “élite runner!” Behind the sign was a tent that looked like it had food and beverages…most importantly, a bathroom that did not have a long line.

Dozens of portable potty’s service thousands of non-elite runners. Thankfully, I had my own tissues.. there weren’t any in my potty. The potty was well stocked with hand sanitizer. I hope that everyone used it. Hmm…

Lol! I am standing in the grey corral waiting for the race to start. There are just as man runners in line behind me. It took my group nearly 20 minutes to get to the official start line. I felt a little like herded cattle.

Me and Amy Buckman posing at the front of the runner’s line. I also wanted to take a picture with CecilyTynan, but I think she was hiding from me. One of my friends probably told her that I was looking for her. Six ABC News is my favorite news station.

I picked up my race packet on Friday. This is near the beginning of the line! The line moved quickly though.

If you haven’t participated in a run or run/walk event, I suggest that you give it a try.  You will love the feel of accomplishment when you complete the event.

Although I feel short of my goal, I finished the run and I am happy!

This is me before the run. I dressed really bright so that my family could easily spot me.

I finished in 1:32:45
Pace:  9:17 minute/mile
Time of arrival: 10:26:45

Keep it movin!

 

Yes! You too can run…

12 Apr 2012 4 Comments

by lexa in Fitness, Healthy Eating, Inspiration Tags: , , , , , , ,

April Fool's Run 2012 - Post race run with my buddy Rich.

“Have you been running the entire time?” A middle-aged couple asked.  After gingerly laughing, I said yes.  Apparently the couple saw me pass their home more than once. My neighborhood merges with another development, creating a beautiful landscape for my daily runs. Newly blossomed pink and white pear trees line the streets giving way to a whimsical and dreamy scene. As an allergy sufferer, the scene could be a runner’s nightmare. However, I’ve already started my allergy meds for the season, allowing me to thoroughly enjoy each moment.

I desperately wanted to stop and tell the couple that they too could run 10 miles.  So can you!  Really you can!  If you you’re laughing at my suggestion, compose yourself; stop laughing.  I can help you to see my point.

Think for a moment about any professional: a doctor, an athlete, or an aerospace engineer.  Each requires systematic education, training, and practice. Each must have an innate appetite for their chosen profession and no one could talk them from pursuing their dream career. 

My point?

To become a runner, you must have the desire, barring any medical condition that would prevent you from doing so.  If you lack the desire to run, don’t bother.  Find another activity.  When it comes to running, you either LOVE it or HATE it.  I don’t believe that there is a middle-of-the-road in running.

Why do I say this? Running is physically demanding. Running means intense pounding on the concrete or black top that can negatively impact the knees, feet, back, and joints.  Running is also mental.  Yeah, mental in that every runner experience days where they are physically able to run, but for whatever reason, is not  in the mood or simply don’t feel like running that day. 

A diehard runner, pushes through the mental hesitation, sets out to run, and allow the endorphins to invade the brain.  Us runner’s privately seek the runner’s high. 

Those who don’t particularly enjoy the experience of running, surrender to the mental pressure and pass on the opportunity to run.  As I said, either you LOVE it or HATE it. Running relaxes me. Mentally my mind is clear.  Like the randomness of the wind, thoughts and ideas flow in and out of my head. Creative solutions to challenges often appear while running.

Okay so… for those of you who just can’t get into running, find another exercise that you can get excited about.  Try biking, walking, zumba, belly dancing, or another fitness program that interest you.

For the wanna-be-runners…  

1.  Get approval from your doctor.

 2.  Invest in a good pair of running sneakers and dedicate those sneaks solely for running. It matters! I favor Asics, but buying running sneakers is a personal choice. Find a decent pair that fit well. 

3.  Set a realistic goal for yourself, such as half mile or one mile or 30 minutes.

4.  Decide how often you will run.  Two to three days per week is a good start. Get your iPod ready with a finger snapping playlist.  When you want to stop walking or running, your favorite dance tune will inspire you to continue.

5.  Eat and hydrate. Not necessarily immediately before you run, but within an hour or two before running. This is my opinion.  Avoid high sugar content food; it’s contradictory to your purpose and will do more harm than good.  Complex carbohydrates  and lean proteins are best. Don’t rely on gimmicky sports drinks, supplements, or energy bars. 

6.  Decide if you will run inside or outside and dress comfortable and accordingly.  As much as I prefer to run outdoors, I don’t run before sunrise or after sunset; it is not safe. 

7.  Begin with a few good stretches. Warm up by walking then slowly start to run.  Run at a slow but comfortable pace.  When you feel out of breath, change to a brisk walk until you regain your breath, then return to running. After completing your goal distance stretch again. If you experience pain or shortness of breath you should immediately contact a doctor. 

 8.  Record your progress; your time, distance, and how you feel. If you want to, you can also track your pulse/heart rate. Stretch again after you finish.  Stretching will help to prevent injuries and soreness. 

9.  Find a partner who is as passionate as you are about running. Partners are good for encouragment and help you to stay focused.

10. Register for a local running event. Start with a 5K walk or run (3.1 miles) Active.com is a great website to find local runs, events in other states, cycling events, and a long list of other activities. When you take part in an official event, you will meet other enthusiasts–young and old who will inspire you to keep running. You will also meet seasoned runners who are usually eager to give advice to novice runners.  Your best benefit is the sense of accomplishment you feel after completing the event.    

11.  Track your mileage on your sneakers. Everyone is different, but I like to trade my kicks in at 300-400 miles.  Even before I notice that I’m nearing my mileage limit, I usually feel discomfort in my hips and/or knees, suggesting that it’s time for new sneakers.  I should rotate sneakers, but since I spend over $100 on sneaks, I only buy one pair at a time.  More money is spent on my running sneakers than my work shoes. Funny but true! 

If you follow these few tips, in no time you will be running longer and having a blast.  Oh, the other added benefit is…  running will help you to shed unwanted pounds and help you to get into shape.  That is of course if you maintain a healthy diet and avoid indulging in processed foods and foods that contain high sugar, fat, and sodium.

Good luck and remember…  keep it movin!

Additional Reading


http://www.livestrong.com/article/556059-the-effects-of-stretching-on-long-distance-running/


http://video.about.com/running/5-Stretches-for-Runners.htm


http://video.about.com/running/How-to-Run-on-a-Treadmill.htm


http://www.toscareno.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=47&Itemid=55

 

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