Combination…

… catch up post since I’ve been absent this week.  I’ve been out running and that’s a good thing!

SATURDAY'S 4.04 MILE RUN on the Montour Trail was a perfect Fall afternoon for a run.  Unfortunately – I was slow and not comfortable at all. 

I downloaded the new ios 5 operating system to my iPhone, I had to reload all my apps.  RUNKEEPER is what I use to keep track of my physical activity and since the upgrade to my phone, I had to reset my programming.  I did it on the fly before the run and normally run a 10/1 [10 mins running/1 min walking]. I programmed the 10 min run correctly, but the 1 minute walk got programmed as a 1 MILE walk.

I decided to wing it while I was out there – but it added to the stress I felt while I was out there running.  But, we need uncomfortable runs to appreciate the good ones.  It’s over, done and in the books.  I did it – doesn’t matter how fast – it made me realize that training for the PGH HALF MARATHON, it’s the distance NOT the time that should be most important.

MONDAY'S 3.49 MILE RUN was multi-tasking at its’ best.  I needed to make a bank deposit and get a 3+ mile run in and fortunately for me – I was able to combine the two.  One of our banks is close enough to our house that I am able to incorporate a good [and safe] running route.

It made me proud when the teller said: It’s a good day for a walk…

And I replied: It sure is – but it’s a GREAT DAY for a RUN!!

Initially I’d planned to take two rest days before Saturday’s FREAKY 5k RACE, but MOM WAS HAVING ISSUES FROM HER RECENT SURGERY and they had to clean/irrigate her incision.  [Successful!!] That threw off my training schedule for this week – but I made adjustments to my rest days.  Not really a problem, it was more important to be available for her.

Miserable weather conditions made me take THURSDAY'S 2.00 MILE RUN indoors on the elevated track.  Let me just say, I’m not worried about running in less than ideal conditions – but I also need to think about my own health.  It was a taper run in preparation for Saturday’s race.  I just needed to put up mileage and keep my body moving.  I didn’t need speed or hill work – I certainly don’t need to risk illness by being all Bad A$$ and running outdoors. 

Could I have run outdoors? Yes. 

Did I absolutely NEED to run outdoors? No.

I got in the run I needed to and I’m comfortable with that – I’m looking forward to the race in the morning – we’ll leave it at that!