Wash, Rinse, Repeat.

Sunday morning I ran with a friend.  We met at the "butt-crack of dawn" (her words) in order to run before our families woke up, so we would not be infringing on family-time.

As we ran, we talked.  As we talked, I processed.  I had a few "a-ha" moments, and a lot of laughs.

Listening to my early morning running friend, I realized that one of the main things I love about running is the sense of accomplishment I feel from it.  There is so much in my life - the life of a mother, wife, educator, etc. that is incomplete, or in a constant state of what my Mother and I refer to as Groundhog Day. . .The dishes are NEVER done.  The laundry is NEVER done.  Stuff gets done, but it's never completely finished.  Honestly, I don't know about your households, but the second I put away the last dish from the dishwasher, there is a sink full of dirty dishes waiting to be loaded. . .same thing with laundry. 

As my parents frequently point out, there is no "finish-line" with parenthood.  Even though the kids grow, and hopefully move out and on, they are still our kids. . .we still worry.  We are still (hopefully) involved in their lives. 

Running gives me a sense of accomplishment, of completion.  I have run several half marathons.  I have run a marathon.  I have completed duathlons.  I set a goal, I work towards it, and I finish it.  It is a wonderful sense of achievement - each and every time. 
Even a Sunday morning run, with no medals or t-shirts, brings an huge sense of success.  I ran 9 miles before 7:30am.  I feel good about the run, and I feel good about myself.

There is not a lot opportunity in my life (I don't know about yours) where I can replicate this sense of completion and success.  I love my job.  It's a lot like parenthood with ups and downs.  There is no promotion in teaching though.  There are no big bonuses or raises.  There are little moments of success, and frequent moments of doubt.  Same thing with motherhood.  We have had a lot of positive moments lately, particularly with my "challenging" 9 year old.  However, for every up, there is a down.  And again, there is no finish line. 

So, while I love motherhood, and I love teaching - My happy moments while running give me a sense of completing a goal that gives me a much needed pat on the back, that helps me handle all the other moments in my life to which there is no end. . .I know I can - because I do.

When people comment negatively on my running or exercise, "Why do you do that to yourself?" as if I am inflicting some form of self-punishment, I can't help but think -

What do you get to do in your life that brings you a sense of accomplishment?

Mission Miles - 50K (34.08 miles)

This past weekend I participated in the Sally's YMCA Mission Miles Bike Ride.  There were three riding options:  25K, 50K, and 100K.  I opted for the 50K, which was a new and challenging distance for me.

I arrived at the race ridiculously early, as I tend to. . .thanks OCD.  So I had time to relax a little before the ride.  One of my biggest issues with all races are the limited bathroom facilities.  Most races do not offer adequate bathrooms, in my opinion.  There are always looooong lines, and twice I have had to leave the line, in order to go start the race, without getting to "go". 

This race had NO bathroom options.  That's right.  No bathrooms available.  I texted Fitness Guru, and she suggested that I become "one with nature."  Ha ha.  I packed some tissues, in case that suggestion became a reality.

The race started promptly at 8am, and I took off with the other 100K and 50K riders (the 25K started about five minutes after us). . .and before I was even out of the parking lot, the chain popped off my gears completely.  Thankfully, an experienced rider ahead of me heard my (unladylike) comment of frustration and turned around to help.  It took us about five minutes, but we got the chain back on the bike, and we were good to go.  At this point, everyone was ahead of us - and long gone from view.  I felt horrible about this gentlemen falling so far behind (and he was dressed for success).  He was very nice, and got us on the route, before taking off to rejoin his group.

The ride route was through a couple towns that I was not familiar with - which was very nice.  I like seeing new areas.  I managed to recover some time early on, and pass a few people, so I was not last anymore.  However, I ended up riding almost the entire race all by myself:  no one passed me, and I didn't pass anyone.  Lots of time to think. . .and become "one with nature". . .no watering the plants though, no. . .a bird pooped on me! 

Well, shift happens, right?!

The 50K, which I think translates to about 31 or 32 miles, clocked in at 34.08 according to my Garmin.  The ride was challenging, but fun and beautiful.  I had a great time, completed a new distance, and became one with nature.  Yay me!

May Challenges

For some crazy reason, I decided to step out of my exercise comfort zone in May.

At the beginning of the month there was a post floating around Facebook that encouraged people to do a Squat Challenge.  Apparently, there were two versions of this:

and

I chose the second option. 
Then, about a week into the month a running/pilates friend mentioned In & Out Challenge.  This is where you put something "In" for fitness and take something "Out" that is bad.
I figured I was already doing the squats, but decided, "Hey, I am a glutton for punishment.  I think in addition to squats, I'll increase my running!"
For my "Out" I seriously contemplated taking out sugar - but I also wanted to be realistic that would not be a cold-turkey transition for me.
So, in an effort to curb sweets, I re-joined MyFitnessPal app, to monitor my food intake and portion control.  With my ocd personality, this can easily get out of hand, but I figure for one month, it is a good reminder of what I should be ingesting.

The month is over.  I can't say my derriere resembles the lady in the Squat Challenge, but I can now do over 200 squats and not want to die.  I have increased my running.  I had wanted to run every day - but that was just not possible with my schedule.  I've been monitoring my food, and was discouraged to realize I did need a refresher about portions. 

Overall, I think it was a good challenge month.  I don't know that I am going to stick with this routine, but maybe I will mix things up a bit more.  It was a good reminder in stretching my limits and myself both mentally and physically.  I like the In & Out concept, as it seems balanced, and I am all about balance.

 

What would be your In & Out?  How will you challenge yourself?

Shift Happens - Charity Chase Half Marathon

A math problem:
FITMama is going to run a half marathon.  The race begins at 6:30am.  She must check in at the race by 5:45am.  If the drive takes about one hour, what time does FITMama have to wake up in order to be at the race on time?

If you calculated the answer to be 4:00am, you would be correct.

I'm exhausted.

Let me give you some personal background though:
I have two sons.  A 7 year old and a 9 year old.  The 9 year old has "issues".  I put the issues in quotes because, well, we all have issues, right?  His issues are challenging, for him, and those around him. His diagnosis are:  ADHD, Aspergers, and Anxiety.  But really, he is who he is - no label needed.
And - I get him.  Why?  Because we are a lot alike.  The apple really does not fall far from this tree.

So, back to my race.  I get up at 4am.  I am ready to leave by 4:15am, which is what I was actually planning on (better early than late!).  As I go to grab my Garmin off the charger, it beeps at me.  What the ----?!  No battery?!  It has been plugged in all night!  Well, it's only at 1% power, for some reason that my brain cannot even begin to figure out at 4:17am.

I quickly change my heart rate monitor strap, and grab my Moto - which I unplugged to charge the Garmin.  Let me double check power - 70%.  That's enough to get me through the race, IF I don't use music.  Grrr.   So I grab my iPod, which I planned to use anyway.  Still, now, I am in a mood.

I hit the road.   Thirty minutes into this drive, and I am really worked up now about my Garmin not being charged, having to use my not fully charged Moto, mad at myself for not syncing my music onto the Moto so I could just use it there - and planning ahead to charge everything, just in case, for future races.

Then it hits me.  Why am I exhausting myself getting so worked up about all this?

My 9 year old has a very difficult time transitioning and handling unexpected things in life. . .especially, when, in his mind, it should go a certain way.  His Resource Teacher at school is helping to teach him how to shift.  She told his other teachers, and us, about shifting, and using that term, to help him when he gets "stuck" and needs to move on.  This way, we are all using the same term, to help guide him through his frustrations.

I tell my son to shift - a lot. Now it was time for me to listen to myself.  I needed to shift.  I needed to let go of my frustration, now anger, and move on.  There is nothing I can do about the Garmin at this point - shift happens.

I get to the race early and check-in.  It is dark out.  The volunteers have to use flashlights to read the check-in paperwork, and get me my stuff.  I question my sanity for getting up at this time.

A way cool tech shirt and Balega socks for check-in!

However, Charity Chase is one cool race.  The race is set up with local charities at almost every mile marker, to cheer on and support runners.  They wave signs, ring cowbells, yell out encouragement.  Some are dressed up in funny costumes, or shirts for their respective charity.  At the end, runners vote on the best charity support - and they get a donation from the race.  Pretty cool?  Win-win!

The race begins at 6:30am.  Before Mile 1 there is already a cheering section from a local Women's Group.  The race support is fantastic, which helps because the route is not scenic - through downtown Hickory. 

I'm feeling pretty good, other than the fact I really have to use the restroom.  Shift happens.

Mile 3 - my Moto is pretty much right on at 3.12 miles.  The cheering volunteers are so energetic, it really helps to motivate.

Mile 5 - we loop back to where we started.  There are bathrooms!  I quickly run into the restrooms, and am promptly hit in the face with a thick cloud of cigarette smoke!?  Ugh.  I hold my breath and go as fast as possible, and get back outside, but I am upset.  Now I reek of smoke.  Let it go.  Shift happens.

Still about Mile 5, and we run past the Finish Line.  That is just plain cruel.  I'm making great time.  Might I sub-2 this race?  Is it possible?

Mile 6 - We are on a busy road and luckily there is a lot of police support.  The cars are being held up, so the runners can go.  I am sure that is a pain on a Saturday morning, but these drivers are awesome!  They are all sticking their hands out the car windows to high five us as we run by!!!  Thanks local drivers, for being so understanding!

Mile 8 and I am feeling pretty good.  I keep locating runners ahead of me, set them in my sights, and do my best to catch up, eventually passing.  This course is hilly.  Very hilly.  But I am learning that I am actually better on hills than flat. 

Until.

Mile 11.  How wonderful that the Boy Scout charity support at this point has ice cold towels for us?  They do!  And it feels sooooo good.  Especially because - Mile 11 is uphill. . .the entire way.  Not cool.  The other not cool factor?  Either my watch is off or the race is off, but I compare with runners around me, and it seems that we are about .5 miles ahead of what the signs indicate.  In a 13.1 mile race, that is a lot.  But. . .

Shift happens.

I know before I get to the finish.
I'm not going to sub-2 this race.
I'm disappointed; I'm soaked with sweat and my feet hurt.


Shift happens, and I am pretty darn proud of myself for shifting and PR'ing by over 5+ minutes on a hilly course.

Ohhh, now I get it.

Today I did my run with a new piece of electronics. . .because I needed new running gear just like I need more running shoes (are you getting the sarcasm across the internet miles?  Because I'm laying it on thick).

I got a Garmin 310XT. 

A couple weeks ago, I had a duathlon, and it rained almost the entire race.  I might have mentioned a little something about it in a previous post.  Anyway.  Normally I wear a MotoActv.  An awesome exercise watch that also has my music on it.  One small piece on my wrist, like a large watch, and cordless earphones, and I am good to go - usually.

Over the past year of wearing the Moto I have discovered a few disadvantages. 
#1 - Battery.  Of course, with the Moto doing everything except the laundry and dishes, the battery wears out fairly quickly.  I have figured out how to use it so that it lasts at least for a half marathon run, if not a little longer.  Keep in mind that for those two hours the Moto is using GPS and music, so the battery is usually at 10% by the end of a race.  It died during my full marathon.  Still, I liked having ONE piece that did it all.  It has been more convenient, than not.

However,
#2 - Moto uses a swipe screen action.  I have to drag my finger over the screen in order to get to the items I need.  This is normally not a problem, except when it's raining (remember the duathlon?  It was raining).  When it's wet, or my finger is wet, I can't use the screen, which pretty much makes the Moto useless to me.

Finally,
#3 - Now that I am a super-awesome multi-sport athlete (hey, this is my blog, and I can be Queen of Fitness if I want. . .), I have found that the Moto does not transition easily from one event to the other. 
This was the main reason I was looking at new fitness technology.

That was a long explanation to get to my main point.  Sorry.
The Garmin is awesome. 

I used mine today, and I think I want to wear it 24/7.  I am completely lured into its addictive powers of information.

Luckily, a fellow LKN MRTT (Moms Run This Town) was selling hers, so I got a great deal.  Otherwise, I could not afford such an amazing piece of technology.  However, that said, if you are looking for a good fitness watch - investing in a Garmin would be a wise choice.

I love it.

I wore it today for a 4 mile run after work.  It's very easy to set, and the entire run I could easily see the screen which let me know at a glance:  1)  Distance, 2) Running time, 3) Pace and 4) Heart rate percentage.  I'm sure the Moto could give me all this information too - but because of battery life, the screen was not always visible, in order to save power.
It was so helpful to see all the information.  I kept my heart-rate in between 80-90% for the run.  I managed to keep my pace at a 9:10mm or less.  It helped to see the numbers as I ran; to guide me with improving my running.

It also can be programmed to switch from run to bike to run with the press of one button - which will come in handy during duathlons.

Now, I totally understand why some runners are fanatical about their fitness watches - their pace, minutes per mile, heart-rate, etc.

I get it.
Now, if only I could get the Garmin to do the laundry and dishes. . .

Mama's got a brand new bag!

Ohhh, another goody!

Runners are very particular about their "stuff".  My sons' K/1 teacher is a marathon runner, and she once made a comment about runners and all their car stickers that advertise their running.  It's true.  I, personally, have two running magnets - for now.

Other runners, like to run and get "bling" - the medals at the completion of a race.  I have lots of medals, but they aren't what I run for, or my reason for a race, or not. 

I have a ton of shirts from races.  This is hit or miss.  I have some favorite race shirts, and others I wear as grunge shirts - to get sweaty or dirty. 

There are actually at least 6 shirts missing from this pile - in the laundry.

Early on in racing though, I saved my bibs.  Those number sheets that runners wear pinned to the front of their shirts.  Some bibs have the timing tags on the back, some don't.  Some bibs are just plain with a number, and others are more descriptive and colorful. 

What to do with these bibs?  I discovered Mile 22 Bags;  I think just through a random internet search, but I am so glad I found them!  They make bags - a variety of styles and colors - made out of your own racing bibs.  How cool is that?  Very cool, I think (as I am writing an entire blog post about it). 

I collected my bibs - depending on what style bag you want to order, you save up a certain number, they can also use racing shirts, time sheets, maps, etc. . . I just used bibs.  I mailed them off.  I got an email indicating my items were received. 

Just this past week, on Monday, I got an email saying that my package/bag had shipped.  Being the OCD person I am, I checked the shipping status approximately 10x a day, even though I think it's only updated once a day.  So far, it hasn't made the package move any faster. 

***
It's here!  I got my bag - and I love it!  It is made of high quality nylon (i.e. tough and hopefully durable).  This style is called Race Day Tote - and that's what I plan to use it for.  I am always lugging stuff to/from races and runs, and this bag seems like it will be perfect for all my gear.

 

What's your favorite race paraphernalia?  What do you do with all your race "stuff"?

Give it a rest.

A rest day is recommended for people who exercise regularly, to give their bodies and their muscles a break - a rest.

Normally, I try to take Sundays "off" from working out.  This has more to do with my schedule, and it works out best for me, and my family. 

Is one day off of exercise enough?  Does a day of not exercising truly help a body to heal and recover?  How does one know when they are pushing themselves too hard - is there a way to tell before serious injury occurs?

"Life as I know it has changed."  I received this text over a week ago, from Fitness Guru, "I blew out my knee last night."
After a doctor's appointment, MRI, and a meeting with an orthopedic specialist, it turns out that Fitness Guru has a meniscus tear in her left knee.  Not good.  Luckily, no surgery required, but a serious wake-up call to take it easier on her body.
"When I see you next, we are talking about your workout schedule," she texted me after the news.

Hello Pot, I'm Kettle.   

What?  She wants to tell me about my workout/race schedule?  She is great about giving advice, including to take a rest day - perhaps she can model this for me.  One of the many things I respect about Fitness Guru is that - with working out - she walks the walk, not just talks the talk.  During class, she is spinning or lifting right along with us. 

Just like someone usually does better with exercise and fitness if they have a workout buddy - perhaps we need to implement a Rest Day Buddy?  It might help.

I have been pushing myself this month (I will elaborate in a different blog post).  This past weekend I had an amazing and challenging duathlon.  I had not been prepared for the trail running portions, and I am paying for it now.  My left foot has been sore since the race - I think I might have twisted it funny while leaping over mud pits and dodging rocks and roots.

Taking a page from Fitness Guru's current situation, I made myself NOT run today.  I had to plan for this starting yesterday.  Sad, but true.  What could I do in order to NOT run after work?  Normally, I start thinking about my after-work-run around 10am, when I need to eat my pre-run banana.  By noon, I am dressed and bolting out the door for a run around town, pound out the stress, think through problems, and re-energize before picking up the kids.

Sort of like hiding the cookie jar if you are dieting, I needed to keep my feet busy. . .
What to do?  What to do?

Ahhhh, a pedicure. 

I'm still missing my run terribly.  I find myself fantasizing about slipping on my running shoes and doing a quick jog around the neighborhood, but I look at my pretty toes, and remind myself that I need to take today off.   It's okay. . .Really.  Right?