but there's reason to believe maybe this year will be better than the last." -- Counting Crows
It's been a while since I've posted - some personal / family issues required my attention, and blogging about them isn't something I want to do just yet.
But I'm VERY excited that today is the last day of 2011. It was a good year and a bad year, from a lot of different angles, actually. From a fitness perspective, I had a good year in that I set PRs in a few races, and got to run the cycle (5K/10K/Half/Full Marathon), plus two triathlons and almost 1700 miles (a good year for me). On the downside, though, I managed to gain 10 pounds; mainly in the last two months of the year. So I'm headed into 2012 with some serious goals.
As with just about EVERYONE else, I'm working to lose those 10 pounds, plus a few more, while increasing my strength and general fitness. I'm starting the year at 199 pounds; about 16 more than I was when I felt my best, so it sounds like a challenge, but when I look at what many people face with weight issues, it's not that big. I have a great support system, too, so I think this really is doable, and I'm hoping to help inspire some friends and family to do the same along the way.
Second, I plan to run three marathons this year; one winter, one spring, and one in the fall, and hopefully 2-3 triathlons. I'm not sure I can do it all, but it would be nice, and would get me to 9 marathons in total. The first marathon and triathlon are both already booked, and the second marathon is high-probability. From there, I'll have to decide whether I want to train, or have more fun doing other races in the fall.
Third, I'm promising myself to read more (more possible with my new Kindle) and getting specific this year on *what* I'm going to read, not just a general 'read more' statement. Now if only I could read while I was out running....
I have more goals, but I'll share those through the year. My first three months need to be focused on the above, because I've learned that I can't focus on too many things at once; If I do, it's not really focus, is it? While I'm at it, I will try to be more consistent in blogging, and also to vary the topics a bit more in 2012. I hope it pans out, and that you'll stay with me for the trip.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
Training update December 2nd, 2011
I had a great week of training recently. Unfortunately, that was two weeks ago. A fast week on my two base and tempo runs, followed by an 18 miler that went really well, as I think I finally have my hydration / nutrition down, as well as my run / walk tempo (a minute walk about every two miles seems okay to me).
Then, Thanksgiving happened, along with a few other challenges. Two days of travel (without a good running route or treadmill available), the food fiesta that is the last Thursday of November, followed by a week of not-so-good on the dietary front (OK - that should be "really-really-bad" on the dietary front).
Add to that a bit of stress that came from some bad lab results. I had a few chest pains (which I had already determined to be muscular) but for which my doctor wanted additional tests. One of them came back with a poor reading, which tripped three other rounds of blood tests plus a treadmill stress test, . Net is that I appear to be fine, but I was more than a bit thrown when one of the blood tests indicated cardiac problems, but these were disproven by a followup.
So I'm back to running normally, albeit at a slower pace, thanks to the extra November pounds and a couple of days off. My body likes to run as often as possible, so even a few days off brings on extra aches and pains when I finally get back to the roads. By this Sunday's 20 miler, I should feel much more lubricated, and hopefully everything will work smoothly.
I'm now signed up for the 26.2 with Donna (National Marathon to end Breast Cancer) and I'm planning to register for the New Jersey Marathon. I'm also registered for the Pawling Triathlon in June, and I'll probably do the Putnam Tri again this year. I'm hoping to 1) training in the pool over the winter and 2) run an Olympic distance Tri in 2012, along with three marathons. If my heart can survive all of that, plus the usual battery of 5-milers, 5Ks, and a half or two, it should survive anything.
Then, Thanksgiving happened, along with a few other challenges. Two days of travel (without a good running route or treadmill available), the food fiesta that is the last Thursday of November, followed by a week of not-so-good on the dietary front (OK - that should be "really-really-bad" on the dietary front).
Add to that a bit of stress that came from some bad lab results. I had a few chest pains (which I had already determined to be muscular) but for which my doctor wanted additional tests. One of them came back with a poor reading, which tripped three other rounds of blood tests plus a treadmill stress test, . Net is that I appear to be fine, but I was more than a bit thrown when one of the blood tests indicated cardiac problems, but these were disproven by a followup.
So I'm back to running normally, albeit at a slower pace, thanks to the extra November pounds and a couple of days off. My body likes to run as often as possible, so even a few days off brings on extra aches and pains when I finally get back to the roads. By this Sunday's 20 miler, I should feel much more lubricated, and hopefully everything will work smoothly.
I'm now signed up for the 26.2 with Donna (National Marathon to end Breast Cancer) and I'm planning to register for the New Jersey Marathon. I'm also registered for the Pawling Triathlon in June, and I'll probably do the Putnam Tri again this year. I'm hoping to 1) training in the pool over the winter and 2) run an Olympic distance Tri in 2012, along with three marathons. If my heart can survive all of that, plus the usual battery of 5-milers, 5Ks, and a half or two, it should survive anything.
The Power of Yet
It's amazing how small words can have big impacts. "Yet" is one of my favorite examples - it's a word that can indicate potential, possibilities, and desire. It's a word that says "I'm not now, but I can become". It's almost an optimistic word by definition, and therein lies its power.
The first time I realized how good a word it was happened after my first half-marathon. It was a grueling effort, far longer than I had ever run before, and I had made lots of rookie mistakes (overdressed, went out too fast, bypassed one water station too many, etc.). By the time I hit 10 miles, I was wiped out. I was done with running, cursed my coach - it was a bad scene. After I finished the run, my coach Dan told me that if I could run a half the way I did, I could run a full marathon. My response was typical: "There's no way I can run a marathon". He looked at me with a glint in his steely eyes and said simply, "yet".
I didn't get it right away, but he was right - There was no way I could run a marathon yet, but I *could* run one. I hadn't thought it possible to run a half marathon, but I had just done it. It wasn't pretty, but it was my first attempt at anything over 10 miles, and I had made it work. That idea of "yet" stuck with me, and before long, I was training, and then running, the New York City marathon, and then 5 more since then.
"Yet" applies in so many ways, though. I can't do 100 pushups straight....yet. I can't do more than 10 pullups .... yet. I don't know how to cook a gourmet meal...yet. I can't write a good blog (maybe that one stays that way for me). Those three letters change a sentence from a limitation to an aspiration. A 'never' to a 'someday'. The impossible to possible.
I find myself looking for it now whenever people say they can't do something. I ran a race with my sister recently, and when another, longer race came up, she said that there was no way she could run that distance. I hesitated, waiting for that magic word, but it didn't come. So I said it. This time, she hesitated, and I was taken back to that half-marathon again, with the tables turned. Only this time, she was quicker than I had been . She understood what I was saying, and she responded, "yet". She knows what is possible if she has the will.
Next time you find yourself using the C word (can't), choose to add "yet" to the end of your sentence. You may find new doors opening in your mind. The biggest thing standing between us and excellence, the realization of our full potential, is our ability to imagine that we can succeed.
And I'll keep writing.....even though I'm not really good at it (yet).
The first time I realized how good a word it was happened after my first half-marathon. It was a grueling effort, far longer than I had ever run before, and I had made lots of rookie mistakes (overdressed, went out too fast, bypassed one water station too many, etc.). By the time I hit 10 miles, I was wiped out. I was done with running, cursed my coach - it was a bad scene. After I finished the run, my coach Dan told me that if I could run a half the way I did, I could run a full marathon. My response was typical: "There's no way I can run a marathon". He looked at me with a glint in his steely eyes and said simply, "yet".
I didn't get it right away, but he was right - There was no way I could run a marathon yet, but I *could* run one. I hadn't thought it possible to run a half marathon, but I had just done it. It wasn't pretty, but it was my first attempt at anything over 10 miles, and I had made it work. That idea of "yet" stuck with me, and before long, I was training, and then running, the New York City marathon, and then 5 more since then.
"Yet" applies in so many ways, though. I can't do 100 pushups straight....yet. I can't do more than 10 pullups .... yet. I don't know how to cook a gourmet meal...yet. I can't write a good blog (maybe that one stays that way for me). Those three letters change a sentence from a limitation to an aspiration. A 'never' to a 'someday'. The impossible to possible.
I find myself looking for it now whenever people say they can't do something. I ran a race with my sister recently, and when another, longer race came up, she said that there was no way she could run that distance. I hesitated, waiting for that magic word, but it didn't come. So I said it. This time, she hesitated, and I was taken back to that half-marathon again, with the tables turned. Only this time, she was quicker than I had been . She understood what I was saying, and she responded, "yet". She knows what is possible if she has the will.
Next time you find yourself using the C word (can't), choose to add "yet" to the end of your sentence. You may find new doors opening in your mind. The biggest thing standing between us and excellence, the realization of our full potential, is our ability to imagine that we can succeed.
And I'll keep writing.....even though I'm not really good at it (yet).
Friday, November 25, 2011
Turkey Trot 2011
I realized a few weeks ago that I've never actually run a Turkey Trot, or any of the holiday "Fun Runs" that often get both runners and non-runners together for an event. So when I found out that we would be home for Thanksgiving morning, I sensed an opportunity.
Our local running club has had a Trot for as long as I can remember, and it caters to all types of runners. With a 1-mile kids race, a 2 mile fun run for the less-serious, a 5 mile race for the more-serious runners, and a 25K (15 Mile) for the distance crowd. My son has been running for a few months, and he decided to run the 2-miler (he's not ready for 5 yet - 5Ks are still a bit much), so I signed up to do the short race with him.
He was excited to race again, and looked forward to the run all week. The plan was for me to follow him at a discrete distance (he's already too cool for Dad), but at the starting line, he asked me to run right next to him. During the first mile, he would talk to me, and he sprinted for a few seconds to say hi to the coach of his running club. He handled the small hills without complaint, but was glad to see the turnaround when it came. The second mile was a different story. He was quiet and focused, at times closing his eyes to concentrate. When asked if he was okay, he gave short one-word answers. When it came time to sprint to the finish, he hesitated, not sure if his legs had the energy, but then he pushed through and passed another (adult) runner just before the line.
My son always does what he sets out to do. The question is how he feels about it afterward - would he do it again if he could? Despite claims that his legs felt like spaghetti, and that he was tired, he said that he would definitely do it again (the post-race cookies may have helped). In fact, he's decided that he's going to run a mile every day until New Year's Eve, but we'll see how long that lasts. He also wants me to decorate his room with all of the race bibs he's worn and will wear, so it seems he might be serious about this. I just hope that in a few years, I will still be able to keep up with him.
Our local running club has had a Trot for as long as I can remember, and it caters to all types of runners. With a 1-mile kids race, a 2 mile fun run for the less-serious, a 5 mile race for the more-serious runners, and a 25K (15 Mile) for the distance crowd. My son has been running for a few months, and he decided to run the 2-miler (he's not ready for 5 yet - 5Ks are still a bit much), so I signed up to do the short race with him.
He was excited to race again, and looked forward to the run all week. The plan was for me to follow him at a discrete distance (he's already too cool for Dad), but at the starting line, he asked me to run right next to him. During the first mile, he would talk to me, and he sprinted for a few seconds to say hi to the coach of his running club. He handled the small hills without complaint, but was glad to see the turnaround when it came. The second mile was a different story. He was quiet and focused, at times closing his eyes to concentrate. When asked if he was okay, he gave short one-word answers. When it came time to sprint to the finish, he hesitated, not sure if his legs had the energy, but then he pushed through and passed another (adult) runner just before the line.
My son always does what he sets out to do. The question is how he feels about it afterward - would he do it again if he could? Despite claims that his legs felt like spaghetti, and that he was tired, he said that he would definitely do it again (the post-race cookies may have helped). In fact, he's decided that he's going to run a mile every day until New Year's Eve, but we'll see how long that lasts. He also wants me to decorate his room with all of the race bibs he's worn and will wear, so it seems he might be serious about this. I just hope that in a few years, I will still be able to keep up with him.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Jack of all Trades, Master of None?
That title saying was one of my dad's, and I heard it all the time. I was over-involved in high school, participating in band, drama, student government, Boy Scouts, all while working to get good grades and working in a part time job (and 2 full-time jobs in the summers). College was no different, with student government, a fraternity, honors program projects, and again, a part-time job during the school year. Here I even tried to have a social life.....
Flash forward 20 years or so, and I'm no different; only my perspective has changed. I've got a more-than-full time job, act as the Cubmaster and a den leader for my local Cub Scouts, and maintain a fairly thorough training schedule for my marathons and my increasing interest in triathlons (plus a nibbling thought about ultra-marathons). I also like to spend time with my wife and sons, so my time seems to be completely filled, yet somehow everything has to get done.
Now back to the title quote: Am I really mastering any of the things I do? My job is going very well, and I've achieved a position that exceeds my expectations at a (relatively) young age. That said, I could do my job better if I focused harder to learn more. I'm proud of the work that I've done in Cub Scouts, and I'm putting my pack on a much more solid footing than it seemed to have, but there are times when events are 'thrown together' near the last minutes. Similarly, I could spend more time in my training, by running longer or cross-training more often, but to do that would be to sacrifice even more time from my family, or to outright drop one of the other roles that I play. Those are tough decisions, and for me, it's a huge balancing act between all of the competing interests.
Not that every one of those communities necessarily wants ME, but they do want the things that I do for them, and I enjoy doing them and being a part of the community. (Well, the running community could do without me - they probably don't realize I exist, but that's much more for me than anyone else). I could drop all but one and focus on it, and probably become a great master, but I think that would leave too many holes in my life to work well. I may not be perfectly happy being pulled in all directions at once, but my guess is that I'd be a whole lot less happy with less balance.
Flash forward 20 years or so, and I'm no different; only my perspective has changed. I've got a more-than-full time job, act as the Cubmaster and a den leader for my local Cub Scouts, and maintain a fairly thorough training schedule for my marathons and my increasing interest in triathlons (plus a nibbling thought about ultra-marathons). I also like to spend time with my wife and sons, so my time seems to be completely filled, yet somehow everything has to get done.
Now back to the title quote: Am I really mastering any of the things I do? My job is going very well, and I've achieved a position that exceeds my expectations at a (relatively) young age. That said, I could do my job better if I focused harder to learn more. I'm proud of the work that I've done in Cub Scouts, and I'm putting my pack on a much more solid footing than it seemed to have, but there are times when events are 'thrown together' near the last minutes. Similarly, I could spend more time in my training, by running longer or cross-training more often, but to do that would be to sacrifice even more time from my family, or to outright drop one of the other roles that I play. Those are tough decisions, and for me, it's a huge balancing act between all of the competing interests.
Not that every one of those communities necessarily wants ME, but they do want the things that I do for them, and I enjoy doing them and being a part of the community. (Well, the running community could do without me - they probably don't realize I exist, but that's much more for me than anyone else). I could drop all but one and focus on it, and probably become a great master, but I think that would leave too many holes in my life to work well. I may not be perfectly happy being pulled in all directions at once, but my guess is that I'd be a whole lot less happy with less balance.
OK, I'm in (over my head?)
If you read my last post, you may know that I was on the fence about running an upcoming marathon in February. Well, someone mentioned to me that we regret more the things we don't do than the things we do, so I bit the bullet and committed. Now that I'm signed up, I wonder why I ever hesitated.
The race in question is the National Marathon to end Breast Cancer, a.k.a. the 26.2 with Donna. This race is being heavily promoted by a number of podcasters that I listen to, including Kevin Gwin (The Extra Mile Podcast), Adam Tinkoff and Eddie Marathon (Slow Runner's Club) and Chris Russell of Run Run Live. Many of them are attending, and frankly, I'm looking forward to a chance of meeting them, along with some other running legends, like Jeff Galloway, Bart Yasso, and even Joan Benoit Samuelson.
I'm not going to try to set a PR at this event; I think the conditions are going to be too rough for that. My training will all be in winter weather, running the hills of Dutchess County NY, and the race will be in Florida on a flat course. That may sound better, but a flat course demands a lot out of your calves that hills do not. If training goes really well, and the conditions are ideal, I might go for it, but more likely this will be a training marathon....
for my next one, which will hopefully be in May. I'm certainly not signing up for it until after the Donna race, but if all goes well, I'll toe the line at the NJ Marathon again, and try to beat my 2011 time by at least 5 minutes (setting a PR in the process).
Of course, this all hinges on having enough time to train properly, and time is a luxury I don't have (more on that next post).
The race in question is the National Marathon to end Breast Cancer, a.k.a. the 26.2 with Donna. This race is being heavily promoted by a number of podcasters that I listen to, including Kevin Gwin (The Extra Mile Podcast), Adam Tinkoff and Eddie Marathon (Slow Runner's Club) and Chris Russell of Run Run Live. Many of them are attending, and frankly, I'm looking forward to a chance of meeting them, along with some other running legends, like Jeff Galloway, Bart Yasso, and even Joan Benoit Samuelson.
I'm not going to try to set a PR at this event; I think the conditions are going to be too rough for that. My training will all be in winter weather, running the hills of Dutchess County NY, and the race will be in Florida on a flat course. That may sound better, but a flat course demands a lot out of your calves that hills do not. If training goes really well, and the conditions are ideal, I might go for it, but more likely this will be a training marathon....
for my next one, which will hopefully be in May. I'm certainly not signing up for it until after the Donna race, but if all goes well, I'll toe the line at the NJ Marathon again, and try to beat my 2011 time by at least 5 minutes (setting a PR in the process).
Of course, this all hinges on having enough time to train properly, and time is a luxury I don't have (more on that next post).
Thursday, November 10, 2011
A typical guy?
Commitment. It's a word from which many guys recoil in horror. That's never been me - I'm more of the type who will jump into something and then find out what's required. That's the approach that got me involved in Scouting, sent me overseas for five years, and introduced me to the fine arts in my younger years, and all of that worked out great
So why am I suddenly reluctant to commit to anything, even things that (I think) I want to do? I'm not signing up for races in advance, I'm resisting travel to see my team in different places; I can't even seem to get myself to sign up for Scout activities that I KNOW I'm going to do! In the back of my mind, I'm wondering if I'm waiting / hoping / worried that something else is going to come along that is more important or urgent. Maybe I don't want to make a commitment for fear that I'll have to break it; that's not an unrealistic scenario at present.
I suppose that I just need to accept that I'm taking a risk of disappointing myself or others if I need to cancel on something, whether it's a marathon in Florida, or a campout, or even just a group workout. It won't be the end of the world, and chances are the others may not even notice my absence. As the saying goes: You would care less about what people thought about you, if you realized how rarely they did.
So why am I suddenly reluctant to commit to anything, even things that (I think) I want to do? I'm not signing up for races in advance, I'm resisting travel to see my team in different places; I can't even seem to get myself to sign up for Scout activities that I KNOW I'm going to do! In the back of my mind, I'm wondering if I'm waiting / hoping / worried that something else is going to come along that is more important or urgent. Maybe I don't want to make a commitment for fear that I'll have to break it; that's not an unrealistic scenario at present.
I suppose that I just need to accept that I'm taking a risk of disappointing myself or others if I need to cancel on something, whether it's a marathon in Florida, or a campout, or even just a group workout. It won't be the end of the world, and chances are the others may not even notice my absence. As the saying goes: You would care less about what people thought about you, if you realized how rarely they did.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Blog Reboot: Time to Train!
November has begun, and the first snow has fallen, so it's time to start planning for next year's races. My wife has now finished her latest marathon, and I've been keeping in shape over the summer and fall, so I've got a good base to work from and not a lot of time before my next marathon.
It's also time to reboot this blog, which I haven't been able to do over the summer due to a new job and other obligations which occupied all of my time. Now that I've settled into all of my jobs, I think I'll get a little bit more time to record my comments.
It's actually been a good year for running - I've set PRs at a few distances, including the 10K and the half marathon. More importantly, I think I've helped a few people, including my son and my sister to get more involved in their own running careers and I am hopeful that they will keep it up.For me, 2012 will be the year to set a few more PRs, and hopefully get in two or three marathons.
This week, I had a good couple of runs (and one bad one) including my long run today at 14 miles, which I did at about a 9:30 pace. Today was also the NYC marathon, and while I was not running it, I would have liked to. Maybe next year, if I can get into the lottery, but I might also choose a smaller, more runner-friendly marathon.
Next time, I'll discuss my fear of commitment, and in future posts, my sense of entertainment, my running history, weekly updates on my training, and also a few non-running posts (just so I can vent during this election year)
It's also time to reboot this blog, which I haven't been able to do over the summer due to a new job and other obligations which occupied all of my time. Now that I've settled into all of my jobs, I think I'll get a little bit more time to record my comments.
It's actually been a good year for running - I've set PRs at a few distances, including the 10K and the half marathon. More importantly, I think I've helped a few people, including my son and my sister to get more involved in their own running careers and I am hopeful that they will keep it up.For me, 2012 will be the year to set a few more PRs, and hopefully get in two or three marathons.
This week, I had a good couple of runs (and one bad one) including my long run today at 14 miles, which I did at about a 9:30 pace. Today was also the NYC marathon, and while I was not running it, I would have liked to. Maybe next year, if I can get into the lottery, but I might also choose a smaller, more runner-friendly marathon.
Next time, I'll discuss my fear of commitment, and in future posts, my sense of entertainment, my running history, weekly updates on my training, and also a few non-running posts (just so I can vent during this election year)
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Relaunch
Relaunch. Restart. Reboot.
That's right it's do-over time The time when we junk what we had and we start over. Why? Because things are changing (as they always do). And change means new adventures, new perspectives, and new insights into the way we live our lives. I wasn't fully prepared to talk before, and you might not like what I talk about now, but I'm going to talk. Maybe you'll like it; maybe you won't, but I'm going to start doing this for me, first and foremost.
Change is good.
That's right it's do-over time The time when we junk what we had and we start over. Why? Because things are changing (as they always do). And change means new adventures, new perspectives, and new insights into the way we live our lives. I wasn't fully prepared to talk before, and you might not like what I talk about now, but I'm going to talk. Maybe you'll like it; maybe you won't, but I'm going to start doing this for me, first and foremost.
Change is good.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
"What's new?"
People ask me all the time "What's new?" "What's happening?" " How are things going?". I recognize that for most people this is just small talk - a way of saying hi, or just starting conversation. For some of my friends and colleagues, though, it's a serious question, but one that I've taken to ignoring so much in casual conversation, I don't really think about the answer. After all, who would be interested in my life (especially that my main life adventures ended six months ago)
I thought of this the other day, when a friend I hadn't seen in several weeks asked me what was new. When I gave my standard answer ("Really nothing much, how about with you?") he seemed surprised. It was a real question, and he was really interested, and didn't quite understand how nothing could be new in two months. And when I really thought about it - there's a lot going on in my life! First, I've just taken over as the Cubmaster for the local Cub Scout pack. I'm running a half-marathon next week, and a full marathon in just over a month, and doing all of the training for that. I've taken a new job in my company and finally feel like I understand what I'm doing, and on top of all that, I turn 40 next week (something my friend didn't realize). Sure, there are other issues I am concerned about - my father's health isn't great, and I worry about him and my mom; one of my sons is struggling with the pace of learning in school, so we're thinking about moving him to a new school; I'm wrestling with some big questions of religion and my place in society / my community.
I might not share all of this with my friend, or anyone else fully when they ask how I am, but it strikes me how little I think others are interested in me as a person. I do subscribe to the adage "You would care less about what people think of you if you realized how rarely they do", and I think we are living in a world where ego(t)ism is a bit out of control with the pervasiveness of Facebook, Twitter, and blogs (this one included). That said, there are those in my life to whom I should not give short shrift when express some interest. I am interested in what's going on in the lives of my friends, so why is it so odd they might be interested in mine? As I am examining many of my habits and behaviors this Lenten season, this is another one that I think I should explore a bit. I'm sure the world isn't interested in what's on my plate, but I can accept that a few people close to me could be.
I thought of this the other day, when a friend I hadn't seen in several weeks asked me what was new. When I gave my standard answer ("Really nothing much, how about with you?") he seemed surprised. It was a real question, and he was really interested, and didn't quite understand how nothing could be new in two months. And when I really thought about it - there's a lot going on in my life! First, I've just taken over as the Cubmaster for the local Cub Scout pack. I'm running a half-marathon next week, and a full marathon in just over a month, and doing all of the training for that. I've taken a new job in my company and finally feel like I understand what I'm doing, and on top of all that, I turn 40 next week (something my friend didn't realize). Sure, there are other issues I am concerned about - my father's health isn't great, and I worry about him and my mom; one of my sons is struggling with the pace of learning in school, so we're thinking about moving him to a new school; I'm wrestling with some big questions of religion and my place in society / my community.
I might not share all of this with my friend, or anyone else fully when they ask how I am, but it strikes me how little I think others are interested in me as a person. I do subscribe to the adage "You would care less about what people think of you if you realized how rarely they do", and I think we are living in a world where ego(t)ism is a bit out of control with the pervasiveness of Facebook, Twitter, and blogs (this one included). That said, there are those in my life to whom I should not give short shrift when express some interest. I am interested in what's going on in the lives of my friends, so why is it so odd they might be interested in mine? As I am examining many of my habits and behaviors this Lenten season, this is another one that I think I should explore a bit. I'm sure the world isn't interested in what's on my plate, but I can accept that a few people close to me could be.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Reality Television
I think these early years of the 21st century are really the golden age for documentaries. There is so much programming time available on the multitude of channels today, that even shows which could only hope for a marginal audience can get aired, and there's always some segment of the viewing audience which will be interested. (I compare this to my own childhood, where documentaries were only the stuff of PBS, and we typically watched them only when required to for homework, or when Dad had control over the TV channels.)
There are shows today about professions as diverse as fishermen, firefighters, models, and, of course, housewives. We've seen police shows ever since COPS arrived on Fox years ago, and I think this was the start of the reality TV movement, followed by the (in my opinion fantastic) Eco-Challenge. That said, I'm still waiting for Hollywood to call me about my ideas for the show about accountants and finance professionals (and no, "The Apprentice" just doesn't suffice).
What we often call 'reality' television, though, is nothing but. We have shows where people are 'trapped' on a desert island, apply for jobs as models, businesspeople and makeup artists, and others where people "look for love" (e.g. the Bachelor). My problem with many of these shows is that they are contrived situations, made for the television, and frankly, other than the notoriety of having appeared on the show, people's lives aren't changed by the experience.
One big exception to this, though, is "The Biggest Loser". On this show, people's lives can be dramatically altered just by their participation in the show, and the education they receive on nutrition and exercise. What is surprising is how little some of the contestants know about these subjects before they arrive on the show, but I guess if they were well-versed in these topics, they wouldn't be there. Outside the mainstream, though, is another show called "Heavy" on A&E. This show tracks the stories of people who are just as heavy as those on "Biggest Loser", and check themselves into a similarly structured program. The difference is that at the end, there is no grand prize waiting for them, only their (significantly reduced) new shape and fitness, and the ability to live their lives in a much different way. It is remarkable to see the challenges these people have, and the changes that occur over the six to nine months they are followed, when they are motivated not by money, but only by the simple desire to live better lives.
"Biggest Loser" has many seasons of history, and lots of the winners have been able to keep off their weight; I'd be interested to learn how the non-winners do, and also to see how the people on "Heavy" do in the long term. One thing is for sure, though; these people have learned more and probably applied those learnings far more than on other reality shows. After all, you don't often find yourself on a desert island anymore.....
There are shows today about professions as diverse as fishermen, firefighters, models, and, of course, housewives. We've seen police shows ever since COPS arrived on Fox years ago, and I think this was the start of the reality TV movement, followed by the (in my opinion fantastic) Eco-Challenge. That said, I'm still waiting for Hollywood to call me about my ideas for the show about accountants and finance professionals (and no, "The Apprentice" just doesn't suffice).
What we often call 'reality' television, though, is nothing but. We have shows where people are 'trapped' on a desert island, apply for jobs as models, businesspeople and makeup artists, and others where people "look for love" (e.g. the Bachelor). My problem with many of these shows is that they are contrived situations, made for the television, and frankly, other than the notoriety of having appeared on the show, people's lives aren't changed by the experience.
One big exception to this, though, is "The Biggest Loser". On this show, people's lives can be dramatically altered just by their participation in the show, and the education they receive on nutrition and exercise. What is surprising is how little some of the contestants know about these subjects before they arrive on the show, but I guess if they were well-versed in these topics, they wouldn't be there. Outside the mainstream, though, is another show called "Heavy" on A&E. This show tracks the stories of people who are just as heavy as those on "Biggest Loser", and check themselves into a similarly structured program. The difference is that at the end, there is no grand prize waiting for them, only their (significantly reduced) new shape and fitness, and the ability to live their lives in a much different way. It is remarkable to see the challenges these people have, and the changes that occur over the six to nine months they are followed, when they are motivated not by money, but only by the simple desire to live better lives.
"Biggest Loser" has many seasons of history, and lots of the winners have been able to keep off their weight; I'd be interested to learn how the non-winners do, and also to see how the people on "Heavy" do in the long term. One thing is for sure, though; these people have learned more and probably applied those learnings far more than on other reality shows. After all, you don't often find yourself on a desert island anymore.....
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Training Update - Mid-February
For those of you who don't know, I'm training to run the New Jersey Marathon on May 1st, and I've spent the last five weeks training (and complaining), mainly on the treadmill in my basement. Overall, it's been okay training, but I've gotten tired of the lack of change of scenery, I've watched about as many movies as I can (as well as Law and Order - it's ALWAYS on some channel), and I'm ready to bust out.
Which I did this past weekend. The outside temperature finally rose, without an associated rise in rain, snow, or my body temperature (illness has played a big role this January). I took full advantage, and went out for my long run on Saturday to enjoy great weather. What I had forgotten is that my last long run outside was only about 10 miles, while this week's run was a full 18. When I added the hills on the course I chose, it turned into a long, slow run, with (so far) three days of quad soreness. I really have to learn to crank up the elevation on the treadmill a lot more than I do today.
That said, I'm still a week ahead of my training plan, so I have some room for things to fall apart for a week. I'm on a cutback week, so the next few days should be more relaxing and enjoyable. I'm also really trying not to focus on my time performance in this race, but to really focus on enjoying the experience. It helps that I've gotten almost my whole family to join me on this weekend, and to do a 3-mile run / walk on the day before the marathon. I don't think we've ever done an athletic event before, and some of them not in many years, so this should be a really enjoyable weekend for everyone.
Lastly, I'm trying out my media chops - In addition to this blog, I've tried to host a podcast or two, and I'm writing articles for my local running club. I'm not sure that I have the time or the talent required to do any of this, but I'm stretching my wings to see how well I can fly. If you're reading this, someday you may be able to count yourself as one of the early victims of my prose.
Run strong, and love what you're doing.
Which I did this past weekend. The outside temperature finally rose, without an associated rise in rain, snow, or my body temperature (illness has played a big role this January). I took full advantage, and went out for my long run on Saturday to enjoy great weather. What I had forgotten is that my last long run outside was only about 10 miles, while this week's run was a full 18. When I added the hills on the course I chose, it turned into a long, slow run, with (so far) three days of quad soreness. I really have to learn to crank up the elevation on the treadmill a lot more than I do today.
That said, I'm still a week ahead of my training plan, so I have some room for things to fall apart for a week. I'm on a cutback week, so the next few days should be more relaxing and enjoyable. I'm also really trying not to focus on my time performance in this race, but to really focus on enjoying the experience. It helps that I've gotten almost my whole family to join me on this weekend, and to do a 3-mile run / walk on the day before the marathon. I don't think we've ever done an athletic event before, and some of them not in many years, so this should be a really enjoyable weekend for everyone.
Lastly, I'm trying out my media chops - In addition to this blog, I've tried to host a podcast or two, and I'm writing articles for my local running club. I'm not sure that I have the time or the talent required to do any of this, but I'm stretching my wings to see how well I can fly. If you're reading this, someday you may be able to count yourself as one of the early victims of my prose.
Run strong, and love what you're doing.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Starting the Year Over
I was finally able to get in a few runs outside last week, and that was a mixed blessing. It was great to finally get some fresh air, and to get a change of scenery and terrain - I think that is restored a bit of sanity that I was missing. The downside, though, was that it was snowy, the roads weren't great, and it was hard.
Why hard? After running for nearly three weeks on a treadmill, my legs weren't familiar with the size hills I have to deal with, my lungs weren't fully ready for the cold, and frankly, I've gotten used to running with a TV, not just the podcasts on my ipod. I listen to podcasts about running and politics, as they're less distracting than music, but after a few weeks of TV, audio-only was a change of pace.
I also took the time to record a few videos and a submission for The Extra Mile Podcast. I've been trying to get more involved in social media lately, in order to enhance my own running experience, and there are lots of opportunities to get involved. In addition to the Extra Mile, I sent my videos to the Slow Runners Club - this is a group of ....less-competitive runners who revel in our sport, more in the enjoyment than in the competition. Adam Tinkoff and Eddie Marathon host a podcast and website to help inspire and motivate runners of all types.
I even hosted an episode of the Runners Roundtable this week. While I'm not the best podcaster (and as you can tell, not the greatest blogger), I'm trying to develop new skills and experiences (more on that in my next posting). RRT offers a great chance to discuss a variety of running topics each week, and runners of all abilities are encouraged to participate.
If you're not yet involved in the Extra Mile or the Runners Roundtable, you should give the podcasts a listen, and get involved. There's always room for more participation, and your experiences can be valuable to a host of other runners.
Alas, snow has again returned to New York, and my long run today (16 miles) had to be done on the treadmill. I included lots of hill work, and kept my pace down, so it went well, and was a useful run. Fortunately, I'm a week ahead in my training, and I'll have time to re-adapt to outdoor conditions before I get to those critical 20 and 20+ mile runs.
Between the snow and the flu that is now sweeping through my family, I'm ready for winter to be over. So much so, that we're going to try and start the year over again on Monday, With luck, the rest of this winter will be snow and illness free. The groundhog didn't see his shadow this week, so we have reason to hope.
Why hard? After running for nearly three weeks on a treadmill, my legs weren't familiar with the size hills I have to deal with, my lungs weren't fully ready for the cold, and frankly, I've gotten used to running with a TV, not just the podcasts on my ipod. I listen to podcasts about running and politics, as they're less distracting than music, but after a few weeks of TV, audio-only was a change of pace.
I also took the time to record a few videos and a submission for The Extra Mile Podcast. I've been trying to get more involved in social media lately, in order to enhance my own running experience, and there are lots of opportunities to get involved. In addition to the Extra Mile, I sent my videos to the Slow Runners Club - this is a group of ....less-competitive runners who revel in our sport, more in the enjoyment than in the competition. Adam Tinkoff and Eddie Marathon host a podcast and website to help inspire and motivate runners of all types.
I even hosted an episode of the Runners Roundtable this week. While I'm not the best podcaster (and as you can tell, not the greatest blogger), I'm trying to develop new skills and experiences (more on that in my next posting). RRT offers a great chance to discuss a variety of running topics each week, and runners of all abilities are encouraged to participate.
If you're not yet involved in the Extra Mile or the Runners Roundtable, you should give the podcasts a listen, and get involved. There's always room for more participation, and your experiences can be valuable to a host of other runners.
Alas, snow has again returned to New York, and my long run today (16 miles) had to be done on the treadmill. I included lots of hill work, and kept my pace down, so it went well, and was a useful run. Fortunately, I'm a week ahead in my training, and I'll have time to re-adapt to outdoor conditions before I get to those critical 20 and 20+ mile runs.
Between the snow and the flu that is now sweeping through my family, I'm ready for winter to be over. So much so, that we're going to try and start the year over again on Monday, With luck, the rest of this winter will be snow and illness free. The groundhog didn't see his shadow this week, so we have reason to hope.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Adapting to my surroundings
Adaptation is truly the key to success in many things, including in running. We do long runs so that our legs will adapt to more miles. We do intervals or other speedwork so that our lungs and blood vessels will learn to handle the strain. And as each season changes, our bodies adapt to the changing conditions of temperature, humidity and sunlight.
These past few weeks, I've appreciated adapting to the weather more than ever. As temperatures dropped and snow and ice fell, I adapted to running conditions outside ... by staying inside.
It's been a brutal winter so far in upstate New York, and I think it's been three weeks since my last run outdoors. Between the cold (this morning, it was -11 degrees Fahrenheit), and the snow (we've gotten about four feet cumulatively), and, of course, the illness (my own for two days, and my family for another six), it's like a conspiracy to keep me inside.
This is when the treadmill can be my friend, and I'm thankful that I have the chance to use it. Without it, my running would be almost non-existent, and training for my Spring Marathon would be devastated. That said, after three weeks, the scenery is getting old. Short runs are tolerable, and at least I have a TV that I can watch, but after a 14 mile long run, I've looked at my basement walls about all I can.
Don't get me wrong - I used to swear by the treadmill, and I did almost all of the training for my first marathon on a treadmill at night. Since then, though (that was 2004), I've learned the joy of running in nature, and also the exhilaration of morning runs; the treadmill at any hour has become more of a chore than an expression of my running love. The roads are what I run on; right now they're what I long for. The diversity of scenery, the fresh air, the challenge of real hills, and the familiar, but changing paths - this is what I hope for in my run tomorrow.
I better get it in quick though - I hear there's a storm coming in on Wednesday......
These past few weeks, I've appreciated adapting to the weather more than ever. As temperatures dropped and snow and ice fell, I adapted to running conditions outside ... by staying inside.
It's been a brutal winter so far in upstate New York, and I think it's been three weeks since my last run outdoors. Between the cold (this morning, it was -11 degrees Fahrenheit), and the snow (we've gotten about four feet cumulatively), and, of course, the illness (my own for two days, and my family for another six), it's like a conspiracy to keep me inside.
This is when the treadmill can be my friend, and I'm thankful that I have the chance to use it. Without it, my running would be almost non-existent, and training for my Spring Marathon would be devastated. That said, after three weeks, the scenery is getting old. Short runs are tolerable, and at least I have a TV that I can watch, but after a 14 mile long run, I've looked at my basement walls about all I can.
Don't get me wrong - I used to swear by the treadmill, and I did almost all of the training for my first marathon on a treadmill at night. Since then, though (that was 2004), I've learned the joy of running in nature, and also the exhilaration of morning runs; the treadmill at any hour has become more of a chore than an expression of my running love. The roads are what I run on; right now they're what I long for. The diversity of scenery, the fresh air, the challenge of real hills, and the familiar, but changing paths - this is what I hope for in my run tomorrow.
I better get it in quick though - I hear there's a storm coming in on Wednesday......
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Training update - mid-January
Well, I've gone and done it. I've signed up for the New Jersey Marathon on May 1st, so I can run a marathon near my hometown (and in my 3rd state, including NY and PA). I then went and looked to see when the training for that marathon should start, and found out that the program started LAST WEEK! I guess I had my break from Philadelphia in November, and now it's back to the roads.
This wasn't as bad a week as it could have been - After feeling terrible after a 10 miler on Sunday, I ran 7 miles each on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, but almost didn't make Friday due to a snowstorm expected. Fortunately, the storm didn't start until about 5:00 a.m., so the roads were still clear enough at 6 for me to get started. It's the first time I've run during snow, which was actually a bit fun. Wednesday included fast intervals, which I haven't done in months, and that went okay. This is the year that I want to improve on speed and set at least one PR.
Unfortunately, because I am now signed up for May 1st, I won't be able to participate in a run in Boston with a few on-line friends, called El Poco Loco, and organized by Steve Runner I'm really disappointed by this, but the way my schedule worked with available races, I had to join the NJ Marathon, and I don't think driving from Boston to NJ on the night before would work out well. I will get up to Massachusetts to run with Steve at some point; just not this time.
Back to the roads.....
This wasn't as bad a week as it could have been - After feeling terrible after a 10 miler on Sunday, I ran 7 miles each on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, but almost didn't make Friday due to a snowstorm expected. Fortunately, the storm didn't start until about 5:00 a.m., so the roads were still clear enough at 6 for me to get started. It's the first time I've run during snow, which was actually a bit fun. Wednesday included fast intervals, which I haven't done in months, and that went okay. This is the year that I want to improve on speed and set at least one PR.
Unfortunately, because I am now signed up for May 1st, I won't be able to participate in a run in Boston with a few on-line friends, called El Poco Loco, and organized by Steve Runner I'm really disappointed by this, but the way my schedule worked with available races, I had to join the NJ Marathon, and I don't think driving from Boston to NJ on the night before would work out well. I will get up to Massachusetts to run with Steve at some point; just not this time.
Back to the roads.....
New Year, New Goals!
It’s a new year, and if you’re like me, you’ve set some goals or resolutions for 2011. I have to say – I’m not a big believer in resolutions; too often, once they’re broken once, they’re done for the year. I’d rather set a goal that I can still achieve, even if I falter once or twice getting started. Here are a few of my goals for this year:
- Lose 10 pounds and keep them off for 6 months
- Do 100 pushups per day (not all at once) for 30 days straight
- Run a Marathon, Half-Marathon, 10K and 5K, and set a PR in one of them
- Read 4 Classic novels that I haven’t yet read
- Write an article for publication
- Inspire someone else to do something good for themselves
I’ve also made a list of 100 things I’d like to do in the next 1000 days, which should get me to about September 2013. Some of these are bigger things (Go white water rafting, Hike the Applachian trail for a week); others are small things that I’d like to get into the habit of doing, like giving blood more often, or writing thank-you notes. I’ll post my list on this blog once they’re a bit more refined.
Just as important as the list, though, is a plan. It’s not enough to want to do something, you have to take action to make that plan a reality. I’ve already signed up for my marathon this year, and re-established my healthy diet to start on that weight-loss. It’s important to get started and get the ball rolling, because that’s where the excitement and the commitment begins to build.
I hope that you’ve got your goals for this year, including one or two really aggressive ones, that you’ll pursue them with passion, and that you’ll look back at the end of the year with pride.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
.....and the beginning of a new year
This is somewhat original......
Twas the day after New Year’s and all through the gym
The machines were all filled with those getting slim
The prices were lowered; “join now for a buck”
And the manager smiled in light of his luck
Registrations were booming, with members anew
Signing up for a year, sometimes signing for two.
With stairmasters humming and treadmills all used
I wondered what got all these people enthused
Their footfalls resounded as the new members groaned
With legs, arms, and abs they wanted all toned
They filled up all classes; like aerobic pilates
They said to themselves, “we’ll all look like hotties”
They did squats, they did lunges, they ran and they spun
Their faces looked focused, but it didn’t look fun.
As I looked o’er the crowd to find space for my gear
No room for my miles was my growing fear
But a treadmill I found, way down at the end
with a yoga class view; watch them stretch and then bend
And over in one corner, a newbie named Fred
Who stood out from the crowd; he was dressed all in red
His hair was a tussle, his cheeks all puffed out
His breathing was heavy, as he moved all about
He was doing a circuit, one machine then the next
And his face would turn redder every time that he flexed
He lifted and grunted with a trainer named Beth
And we spoke for a moment when he stopped for a breath
Like many new members, he’d put on some pounds
With parties and eating during Christmastime rounds
They needed to come off; he’d started his diet
Would exercise help? He decided to try it.
On treadmills, on weight bench, On Stairmasters, too
On ellipses, on cycles, he was pushing on through
He panted and strained until after an hour
He finished his workout and went down to the shower
Some exercise finished, the crowd started to thin
But equipment refilled as a new wave came in
Fresh faces and feet replaced those that were tired
But the goals they pursued were the same all desired
It’s fitness they want, a goal I understand
But these crowds at the gym were not what I had planned
As I finished my workout I pondered a shift
Perhaps I should find a new place I could lift
I said to the owner “You’ve got quite a crowd”
And he leaned to me close, so to not speak so loud
“Don’t worry”, he said, with his tongue in his cheek,
“It’s New Years Resolutions; they’ll be gone by next week”
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