running for my mind

Boston Marathon

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Location:

slc,ut,

Member Since:

Jan 16, 2013

Gender:

Male

Goal Type:

Recover From Injury

Running Accomplishments:

5k - 17:26

1/2 Marathon - 1:19:13

Marathon - 2:54:14

Wasatch 100 - 23:20

 

Short-Term Running Goals:

Sub-1:20 half

Sub-2:50 full

50 miler

Personal:

james clissold
started running in 2012

support from:

Favorite Blogs:

Click to donate
to Ukraine's Armed Forces
Miles:This week: 0.00 Month: 0.00 Year: 0.00
Hoka Challenger 2 (black/orange) Lifetime Miles: 204.80
Kinvara 5 (blue 4) Lifetime Miles: 239.40
Olympus 2.0 (grey) Lifetime Miles: 161.00
Hoka Bondi 4 Lifetime Miles: 318.65
Paradigm 2.0 (black) Lifetime Miles: 223.30
Kinvara 6 (white/orange) Lifetime Miles: 290.95
Kinvara 8 (black/green) Lifetime Miles: 226.73
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2144.12246.9177.650.252468.93
Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 272.25Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 322.70Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 322.70Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 321.35Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 340.57Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 301.50Annivana Miles: 244.50Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 144.55Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 96.90
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.360.000.000.007.36

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.500.000.000.0015.50

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.250.000.000.004.25

trail run in PC by my folks house

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.250.000.000.006.25

6.25

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.500.000.000.0016.50

16.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 16.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.750.000.000.006.75

6.75

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.75
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.500.000.000.004.50

4.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 4.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

16

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 16.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.500.000.000.005.50

5.5

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 5.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.500.000.000.007.50

7.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.500.000.000.005.50

5.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 5.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

16

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 16.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
30.000.000.000.0030.00

30 miles for turning 30 - full recap of this run on my blog at jamesclissold.com

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 30.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

9

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.000.000.000.0016.00

16

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 16.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.250.000.000.006.25

6.25

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 6.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.000.000.006.50

6.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.200.000.000.0010.20

10.2

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 10.20
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

18

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 18.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.500.000.000.0010.50

10.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 10.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.250.000.000.006.25

6.25

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

18

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 18.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.008.50

8.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 8.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.150.000.000.006.15

6.15

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.15
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.009.000.000.0012.00

12 - 9 mile at marathon pace tempo

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 12.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

18

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 18.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.500.000.000.009.50

9.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 9.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.5010.000.000.0012.50

1.5 up, 10 mile tempo, 1 down

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 12.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
20.000.000.000.0020.00

1 - I am not dead.
2 - I will explain later why I took a little break from the blog.
3 - I ran 20 miles this morning and felt ok. Was a little slow and the legs felt a little heavy. 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 20.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.300.000.000.005.30

5.3 easy

5 weeks until Boston...let the countdown begin

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 5.30
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.002.000.007.00

Went to the track this morning. 7 x 400s and 3 x 200s. Felt pretty good. Wished to have done more, but was pressed for time to get to work. 

400s
87, 84, 79, 78, 74, 73, 72

200s
32, 32, 32

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Josh E on Wed, Mar 19, 2014 at 12:16:30 from 205.235.104.4

Nice speed on those. Welcome back. Good luck with the last five weeks!

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Mar 26, 2014 at 17:39:05 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Josh. I just saw this comment.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.008.50

8.5 easy

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 8.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.0010.000.000.0012.00

tempo run today on the streets (as opposed to the tempo I did a the track last week).

10 miles of tempo. Felt good, but it had its moments of fatigue. 

Split
Time
Distance
Avg Pace
Summary 1:06:01.6 10.00 6:36
1 6:46.7 1.00 6:47
2 6:39.3 1.00 6:39
3 6:41.3 1.00 6:41
4 6:40.0 1.00 6:40
5 6:39.5 1.00 6:40
6 6:39.5 1.00 6:39
7 6:32.0 1.00 6:32
8 6:27.7 1.00 6:28
9 6:29.8 1.00 6:30
10 6:25.8 1.00 6:26

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Mar 20, 2014 at 09:37:16 from 199.190.170.24

Looking good, James!

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Mar 21, 2014 at 09:24:26 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake. I appreciate it. I am hoping I can get out running with you and Josh and the gang on some of your slow runs this year.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.008.50

8.5 easy. Second half was a little faster than I had planned but legs felt pretty good coming off of yesterday's tempo. Averaged just under 8

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 8.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.005.000.000.0020.00

Had a good longer run today. Wanted to test how my legs would feel picking up the pace in the second half so I logged some marathon pace miles. Felt pretty good but was ready to be done by the end.

About an hour after the run I had a 90 minute massage and stretch session. My hips really needed it. I an pretty sore and feel like I will be nice and loose by next week.

I pasted the below splits from my phone. So, hopefully it formats alright.

Summary 2:30:50.2 20.00 7:33

1 8:30.9 1.00 8:31

2 8:05.1 1.00 8:05

3 7:50.4 1.00 7:50

4 7:54.5 1.00 7:54

5 7:53.3 1.00 7:53

6 7:33.4 1.00 7:33

7 7:37.3 1.00 7:37

8 7:42.8 1.00 7:43

9 7:52.5 1.00 7:53

10 7:54.3 1.00 7:54

11 7:27.5 1.00 7:28

12 7:15.5 1.00 7:15

13 7:01.8 1.00 7:02

14 7:03.2 1.00 7:03

15 6:48.1 1.00 6:48

16 6:41.2 1.00 6:41

17 6:42.9 1.00 6:43

18 6:39.4 1.00 6:39

19 8:09.0 1.00 8:09

20 8:07.0 1.00 8:08

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 20.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.500.000.000.009.50

9.5 easy around Murray / Cottonwood Heights / Holladay.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 9.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

Took the morning off. I was not feeling well the better part of the afternoon yesterday. Decided some rest might help. Going to get out this evening for an hour or so and then do my track workout tomorrow morning. Hoping for 10 x 800s to gauge where I am for Boston.

PM - 9 miles at a 7:37 average. Felt good. Think I might do an easier workout in the morning and do the 800s Thursday so I have more recovery time.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.008.50

8.5 easy. Going to do the track workout tomorrow. Fingers crossed it feels ok

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 8.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.005.000.0010.00

2 mile warmup - 10 x 800 with 400 rests - cooldown

I have had this workout in mind for a while now. I have heard that it is a good indicator of fitness for a marathon. To test the theory, I wanted to run each of the 800s at 2:55 because that would translate to a 2 hour 55 minute time at Boston. Who knows how accurate this theory is, but I figure it was worth the shot. I ended up a little fast on the first two and decided to just stick with that pace. After the 5th repeat, I convinced myself that I was capable of all 10 at or near 2:50. I am pleased with the results for sure.

Split

Time

Distance

1

2:49.7

800m

2

2:50.3

800m

3

2:50.4

800m

4

2:50.1

800m

5

2:50.3

800m

6

2:48.8

800m

7

2:50.2

800m

8

2:49.7

800m

8

2:48.7

800m

10

2:49.9

800m

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From ACorn on Thu, Mar 27, 2014 at 09:38:54 from 75.169.59.173

Excellent session! Crazy consistency on those reps.

From fiddy on Thu, Mar 27, 2014 at 10:01:30 from 155.101.96.139

I did about a 2:37 avg when I ran 2:40 at Boston and I died a little in the marathon

From SpencerSimpson on Thu, Mar 27, 2014 at 11:59:50 from 67.137.129.50

nice effort James. Yasso 800's are money. Great consistency and pace. MIH Boston is gonna be a great time this year...

From Hille on Thu, Mar 27, 2014 at 12:47:14 from 24.10.218.179

Solid effort. You are looking strong for Boston.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Mar 28, 2014 at 12:37:26 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks guys. I think I have a goal of 2:55 at Boston. If I feel good, I hope to come in below that.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 easy on the clouds, aka Hokas. Looped through Murray and up into Holladay and back. I was surprised my legs were not too tired after yesterday's track workout. Planning on 20 or so miles tomorrow to finish off the week. 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 10.00
Comments
From SpencerSimpson on Fri, Mar 28, 2014 at 10:07:40 from 166.137.209.40

I ran on marshmellow technology yesterday also. Great shoes for easy runs and revovrry runs. Looking good James. It will be awesome to run together in Boston.

From SpencerSimpson on Fri, Mar 28, 2014 at 10:07:55 from 166.137.209.40

MIH

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Mar 28, 2014 at 16:32:39 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks. I like the Hokas for easy recovery days for sure. I am excited for Boston. You will be way ahead of me, but I hope to meet up with some folks from the blog for sure.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.0010.000.000.0020.00

20 miles - I ran down Big Cottonwood Canyon and over to the Mt. Olympus trailhead and then double backed to the mouth of the canyon. 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 20.00
Comments
From Josh E on Sat, Mar 29, 2014 at 19:57:31 from 65.130.223.132

Nice MP miles. If you really are doing a 3-2-1 and a 10 mile tempo this week, what is your plan next Sat?

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Mar 29, 2014 at 20:04:12 from 67.182.242.45

I don't know for sure Josh. I might do the 3-2-1 on Tuesday and then a shorter tempo Thursday, maybe 6 or so. Then probably 16-18 Saturday with a few faster miles in the middle. I did a bit of a 3 week taper before my last marathon and I think it worked well for me.

From Josh E on Sat, Mar 29, 2014 at 20:22:38 from 65.130.223.132

That's what I was thinking - kind of a big week. You may just want to stick to your plan.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Mar 29, 2014 at 20:33:41 from 67.182.242.45

I need to look at the last 3 weeks before Big Cottonwood and see what I did for speed. I felt amazing going into that race.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

My legs are pretty beat up today. Going to do some stretching and foam rolling. It is my daughter's birthday. Crazy to me that Grey is 2!

Excited to start my extended taper into Boston.

Comments
From ACorn on Sun, Mar 30, 2014 at 12:10:38 from 75.169.59.173

Happy birthday Grey!

Enjoy the taper, I'm hoping the stars align for you at Boston.

From james (runmehappy) on Sun, Mar 30, 2014 at 13:37:30 from 67.182.242.45

Thanks Adam. I am hoping the same! Feel good so far.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 super easy - took 5 miles to feel alright and then it was over. My quads were sore and my right glute was borderline painful. Now, my legs are more sore. Saturday's run really beat me up. I am looking forward to some slow recovery runs this week. 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 this morning. Still feeling Saturday's run in my legs for sure. Did 4 of the miles at a moderate pace though once my legs loosened up a bit. 

Anyone use heat to sooth muscles and aches? I have a heating pad at work and it seems to be helping, but wanted to get the thoughts of others. Thanks.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.006.000.000.0010.00

10 miles total. 2 mile warm up - 3-2-1 with .5 in between - cool down.

Per Josh's suggestion, I did a 3-2-1 workout this morning. He said that he likes to do a progression for mental strength. I will call the 6 miles MP miles though they were faster than I plan on running Boston. Felt good to know I am capable of today's workout though

3 - 6:46, 6:35, 6:19
2 - 6:17, 6:13
1 - 5:49

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Josh E on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 09:55:25 from 63.226.66.73

I think you got the point. It sounds kind of hard but then you do it and marathon pace is suddenly feeling really easy. Nice work and great last mile!

From Jake K on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 10:24:44 from 159.212.71.173

Nice workout James!

From SpencerSimpson on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 11:37:32 from 166.137.209.49

Very nice progression. Solid work. 6:50 MP is very doable from this workout. MIH

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 11:43:28 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks guys! I feel confident going sub-3 at Boston, but would love to be closer to 2:55. Thoughts based on where I am at? I don't know the course that well and figure I will start out slow and push if I feel good.

From ACorn on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 16:04:58 from 75.169.59.173

Very solid workout! I know you're capable of at least 2:55, if it all comes together I wouldn't at all be surprised to see you in the 2:4X:XX

From Josh E on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 16:49:23 from 205.235.104.4

I don't think speed is a concern but I'm not sure where you are endurance-wise. Looking at your mileage year-to-date it's probably a bit low to be overly aggressive. Were the marathon pace miles last Saturday sub 6:50 average? How did they feel? I think waiting until after the hills to push is probably the best strategy.

Also, try to analyze the course a bit to know what's ahead - it's easy to go faster than pace for the first four downhill but then it's a grind for the next 17. If you are patient, there is some downhill thereafter and you can go as fast as your legs will carry you.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 17:07:44 from 50.203.76.218

It was a 6:52 average Saturday, but I didn't push it until the last 3 or so because I was running with a buddy. Below is a list of recent tempos for reference.

10 miles - 6:36 average

10 miles - 6:48 average

9 miles - 6:43 average

8 miles - 6:41 average

I was not dead on these, but I think I will stick to my plan of 6:50ish until mile 21 or so. Perhaps I can get into St George in the fall and get a decent PR there?

From Josh E on Wed, Apr 02, 2014 at 17:19:40 from 205.235.104.4

Sounds like you are comfortable in the 6:40s and a 6:40 average puts you at just breaking 2:55. My only concern is that's a four minute pr on a very different course. I think if you go that way, you are definitely at a higher risk of blowing up. Maybe don't be afraid to be in the 6:45-6:50 range but save the fast stuff for the end. And if you run a 2:59 there, I think that's a sub 2:55 at St. George on the same day so it's still progress.

From SpencerSimpson on Thu, Apr 03, 2014 at 10:03:24 from 166.137.119.40

Nice workout James. Hey. I need you to call me. We put together a Boston Relay Team for Men's Open and want you and Josh on there. Call me 801-493-9633. MIH

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.200.000.000.008.20

8.2 easy - my legs felt a little heavy from yesterday's workout. I think I will start a heavier taper now and get the legs feeling solid for Boston. I am happy that I have made it (almost) through another training cycle injury free.

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 8.20
Comments
From ACorn on Thu, Apr 03, 2014 at 18:42:46 from 75.169.59.173

I like your plan, you've got to go with what has worked for you in the past.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.000.000.006.50

6.5 easy. Starting to break in the new shoes that I am wearing for Boston. I think I will do somewhere close to 16 miles tomorrow. I might toss in a couple faster miles in the middle just to keep the legs turning over. Won't do anything too crazy though.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.500.000.000.0015.50

15.5 - felt OK

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 15.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy - felt good, but my right knee was a little rore. Could be due to the fact that I filled up a small trailer of boxes yesterday afternoon. I refuse to move any other items until after Boston.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 easy with Scott and Tyler this morning. Tyler needed to do a 2 hour run for his Ironman training, so Scott and I joined him for his first hour and then he continued on. 

I am feeling good. Going to keep moving easy this week. I think my taper is going well so far.

[update - 4:00pm] I have a weird pain in my left ankle that has gotten progressively worse today. It is a sharp shooting pain if I lay my foot flat and slowing bend my leg forward. So, each step it hurts right before I pick my foot up to take another step. The pain is on the top of my foot / almost ankle right at the point where the skin creases at the ankle. Any thoughts?

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From ACorn on Tue, Apr 08, 2014 at 16:43:08 from 75.169.59.173

James,

Check this site out, maybe it'll help you pinpoint what's going on

http://www.footeducation.com/foot-pain-identifier/

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Apr 09, 2014 at 10:18:31 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Adam. I am hoping that it is not a big issue and it is just inflamed.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy with Scott around Murray / Holladay. Tossed in a couple strides at about 6:00 pace.

My left foot is still acting weird. It hurt yesterday until the evening when I went outside and walked around a bit on the grass and played around the swingset with my daughter. It seemed to stop hurting and I didn't really notice it until I went to bed. This morning it was a little sore, but not as bad as yesterday. I did not feel it one bit on my run, which is great! However, now it is sore again. Still, not as bad as yesterday, but we will see how it progresses as the day goes on. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Felt like I needed a rest, so I listened. Slept in a little and then I heated up in a hot tub and stretched well before heading to work. 

Might get out for an easy few miles this evening, but most likely not because we are closing on our first house at 4. I guess that is kind of a big deal.

Comments
From Hille on Thu, Apr 10, 2014 at 11:23:07 from 67.128.146.100

Congrats on the house. If you do an easy run this afternoon, let me know I may be interested. Our schedules may not work with your house closing, but we can see

From ACorn on Thu, Apr 10, 2014 at 18:22:47 from 75.169.59.173

Congrats on the house! Rest days can work wonders.

From Josh E on Thu, Apr 10, 2014 at 22:05:07 from 71.213.19.215

North Salt Lake? I am excited to have you closer by. I really think there is a need for a Salt Lake running club and it is a shame we don't have one for the faster runners. We need to get a critical mass going. If we could get a core going I think others would come out of the woodwork.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Apr 11, 2014 at 09:14:22 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks for the congratulations!

It does feel nice to rest on occasion Adam.

Sorry Hille we couldn't connect. We went to dinner after closing.

Josh, what do we need to do to establish a Salt Lake running club? I agree that we would have a good group pretty quickly. Let me know how we can get started.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 miles - 2 were about 20 seconds off of marathon pace. Feeling good about this taper. I am to the point where I just want the race to be here!

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 with Scott up by his house near the mouth of Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood. Had some hills to deal with that I felt pretty decent on. Clipped off a couple miles right at about 7:00 despite the elevation gains. Overall, I didn't feel great though. I think that is part of the taper process though. 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy with Scott. Felt fresh. Had a few miles that we dipped the pace slightly and it felt easy. I think I will only continue to feel better this week. 

Crazy that Boston is only in one week! Slowly getting more nervous. 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Josh E on Mon, Apr 14, 2014 at 22:00:46 from 71.213.19.215

This is the first day where I've felt truly impatient. I want the day to come as fast as possible.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.250.000.000.005.25

5.25 easy

I signed up for a 5k today. Hoping to run a couple this summer for more race experience and to test my top(per) speed.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 5.25
Comments
From Hille on Tue, Apr 15, 2014 at 15:55:04 from 67.128.146.116

Which one?

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Apr 15, 2014 at 15:57:43 from 50.203.76.218

Hille, it is the Vigor Utah. So, it is an aided course for sure, but I feel like I will still have Boston in my legs a little. We shall see. I got a 20% off through runmehappy so I jumped on it. When are you going to pick a race to run with me? Perhaps a half in July?

From Hille on Tue, Apr 15, 2014 at 15:59:57 from 67.128.146.116

I want to do a half in July, I was thinking DesNews. You still planning on signing up for St. George?

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Apr 15, 2014 at 16:04:30 from 50.203.76.218

I want to do DesNews as well. I am contemplating St. George still. Did you put your name in?

From Hille on Tue, Apr 15, 2014 at 16:08:04 from 67.128.146.116

I haven't yet, but going to sign up pretty soon. Let me know if you want to also.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy with a good crew that came to show their support before Boston. Ran with Tyler, Scott, Brayden, and Ashley. They have all helped me train a ton this year! Huge thanks to them.

Also, runmehappy.com has a new website. Check it out if you have a minute. It is something that I have been working on for a while now and I am excited to help try and make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. Every little bit helps.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.000.000.000.002.00

Slept in and logged an easy 2 this morning. We fly out in the morning tomorrow to Boston. Feeling a little antsy for sure. I kind of wish I could have flown out earlier, but couldn't pull it off with work. Oh well.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 2.00
Comments
From Josh E on Fri, Apr 18, 2014 at 16:55:32 from 198.228.200.153

Safe travels. Hope to run into you.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Apr 18, 2014 at 17:26:47 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Josh. I will contact you when we get out there. Perhaps we could meet up in the athlete village before the race or something while we have hours to wait.

Race: Boston Marathon (26.2 Miles) 03:06:35, Place overall: 3479, Place in age division: 2145
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.0026.200.000.0026.20

Enjoyed Saturday and Sunday in Boston and felt good when I got to sleep at about 9. Woke up at 5:30, got dressed in all my layers, and headed down to the hotel restaraunt for some food. I ate a couple pieces of toast with peanut butter and a banana (my typical race morning meal). It was early, for a 10am start, but I was hungry and needed some fuel. I walked over to the buses from the hotel and thought it was a little chilly but not bad. I had on a long sleeve button up shirt with my arm warmers underneath and my jersey with bib attached over the top. No, unfortunately I do not have a picture! I had not planned on wearing my Easter Sunday shirt to the race to toss to the side, but realized I had forgotten a sweatshirt to donate when it was too late to find a replacement.

I met up with Josh and we sat down and relaxed with Kevin and a couple others that were with him. I continued to drink and eat a little and was feeling great. I figured I had consumed enough liquid because I had to go to the restroom several times the last hour and a half of waiting. I had contemplated starting the run wearing my arm warmers and beanie, but by the time we lined up I had shed everything and felt plenty warm. I am used to feeling a little chilly at the beginning of races in Utah so it was different to feel fine before beginning to run. note-this should have been my first sign that the heat of the day was going to affect me.

Before I knew it, we were off and running. It felt good to get the legs moving and finally be racing. My goal was to run the first 2 miles at about 7:00 or so and not faster than 6:50, then to drop to 6:50 until "the hills." It was amazingly crowded, but I felt like the pace was good at the start. I consciously held back a few times when I felt the mass of runners push my desired pace a little. First 2 came in at 6:57 and 6:53 (according to Garmin, so add a couple seconds if you wish). I felt good with these so I decided to stick to the plan and drop down to 6:50's but hopefully nothing faster than 6:45, with one small caveat. Mile 3 was 6:47 (5k - 21:26, according to race clock).

I took a sip of gatorade or water at each station. The next 3 miles seemed to fly by and were 6:50, 6:47, 6:41 (10k - 42:33). That 6th mile was a little quick, but I allowed myself the caveat that if the mile had a decent downhill I would allow a few seconds faster as long as I didn't have to push the effort to be there. 3 more miles in and I was still feeling great. I took a gel some time between 6 and 7 and chased it with some water from the aid station. 6:44, 6:44, 6:45 (15k - 1:03:37).

Before I knew it I was at the half way point and was still feeling great. I kept thinking to myself, "hydration is on, nutrition is on, feeling good." 10-13 were 6:48, 6:44, 6:39 (decent down), 6:45. (20k - 1:24:36). So I crossed the half at 1:29:11, which is right where I wanted to be. I took another gel somewhere around 14 and I think that I poured a cup of water down my back somewhere shortly after the half. Honestly, up to that point I didn't ever really feel hot. I obviously was warm, and I noticed that I started sweating pretty early on, but up to this point I had not thought I was overheating. I thought that I was hydrating sufficiently by consuming either water or gatorade at each station.

I kept on running and only had one little niggle in my right calf. I could tell it was tightening a little, but I have had enough experience with that pain now that I know it is nothing to worry about. Sure, I won't walk well in 2 days, but I am good to keep running. 6:43, 6:49, 6:38 I knew I would be a little faster on 16 because of the down, but I held back knowing I could have easily gone faster. I wanted to just keep an easy effort down so I could hold the effort after it flattened and went back up. (25k 1:45:31).

I like to think that 17 is where the course changes to more uphill. To hit my goal, I had said that I was willing to run up to 5 miles at a 7:00 pace across the "Newton Hills." 17 - 6:49, just banked 11 seconds and the effort felt good. 18 - 7:00, right where I intended. 19 - 6:53, 7 more seconds banked. 20 - 7:04, totally fine with that. 21 - 7:14, a little slow, but I didn't want to completely run out of steam on Heartbreak. I crested the hill and still felt ok. Obviously, by now my legs are getting tired, but I thought the tough miles were behind me. (30k - 2:07:00, 35k - 2:29:14)

The downhill felt alright. I know that others have complained of the downhill being painful, but I didn't really experience that at this point. I love running downhill and consider it one of my strengths. I had to shake the up out of my legs but I thought I would dip back under 7:00 pretty easily. 7:04, Ok, I can deal with that. I don't feel great now, but the next one will be quicker and I am still a couple seconds below my goal average. This is where the pretty picture to this point gets destroyed.

Here are my thoughts as I tried to get my legs under me and back under 7:00. "Hmm...I don't feel right. I have a slight headache and I might be a little dizzy. That is weird, my hands are tingling ever so slightly. Yup, I am dizzy. I closed my eyes for a second to think what was going on. As I said, I thought I was solid with my nutrition and hydration. I had tried to keep my core temp down. My eyes shot open as I stumbled a little to the left and felt a slight variation in the road. I felt like time slowed to a halt, my mind started racing (better than my legs at this point) with countless self defeating thoughts. "I'm falling apart." "I don't deserve to be running this epic race." "I'm a hack." And then... "Am I even going to finish?"

Thankfully, another series of thoughts followed and I realized I had 2 options, quit or push through. It wasn't going to be easy. It surely want going to be pretty. However, I thought it was possible. So, I pushed on. By now, the bottoms of my feet felt like they were on fire, my hands were definitely tingling, and each time I closed my eyes things didn't stay straight. I committed to not walk. Slow down, but never walk.

I honestly thought I was destined to collapse, hopefully not until after crossing the finish line, and end up in the med tent. I am sure I looked like a zombie (not the ones on World War Z - those were fast runners) to every spectator and especially to those gracious volunteers handing out water and gatorade. I am happy to say that I stuck to it. Those several miles were some of the most miserable I have ever run. 7:31, 8:02, 8:39, 8:50, and brought it in in 3:13 (7:54 pace). I didn't end up in the med tent!

So, Boston 2014 was an amazing experience! It was just awesome to be there and to run a 3:06. However, I am a little disappointed in the outcome. My training cycle was solid and I thought I had a sub-3 in me. I still think that I did, but unfortunately it didn't play out that way. Now it is time to regroup and decide what to run next. Thinking about putting my name in for St. George. Thoughts?

Comments
From Josh E on Tue, Apr 22, 2014 at 22:51:27 from 75.162.189.103

I look forward to reading the report. Congrats on a strong showing at Boston.

From ACorn on Thu, Apr 24, 2014 at 15:55:12 from 71.213.41.74

Great report. Your thoughts towards the end made me laugh. Still a very solid time and a fantastic experience. You're awesome!

From Rob on Thu, Apr 24, 2014 at 16:09:20 from 204.15.86.100

How exciting to see you make it to Boston. It's just an amazing experience. Great Job!

P.S. I hate St. George Marathon :)

From Josh E on Thu, Apr 24, 2014 at 16:17:22 from 63.226.66.73

Wow - great strategy and execution all the way through the hills. I am sure heat and dehydration had an impact. A lot of strong runners (who didn't go out too hard and executed well) faltered right about the same time so there must have been a consistent formula for disaster.

Re St. George, it is definitely a marathon to do. I know you like downhill but I think your pacing at Boston shows you have other strenghts as well. Like I said - I think this performance is superior to your BC marathon. Think about what you want to prove to yourself. Personally, I want to see you do some quality fast shorter races because I think you are truly still just scratching the surface of your speed.

From Hille on Thu, Apr 24, 2014 at 17:33:14 from 24.10.218.179

Great race James, that is a great time. Sorry you struggled a little at the end, you just needed me to pace you there. St. George is a fun race and we should definitely run it.

From SpencerSimpson on Thu, Apr 24, 2014 at 20:53:52 from 198.228.201.164

James. Nice race buddy. Sorry I missed you. Would have loved to see you at the start. Pretty crazy how crowded it was. Perfect day and unreal experience. MIH

From Jake K on Tue, Apr 29, 2014 at 16:42:34 from 159.212.71.77

Good race James. I'd agree w/ Josh, even though you didn't get the Sub 3, this is a better performance than the BCC marathon. You've made some improvements, and you can take that into a fall marathon training cycle and really do some damage.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Apr 30, 2014 at 13:11:52 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks all.

@Adam - I had to find a little comic relief in it all.

@Rob - It was an amazing experience for sure.

@Josh - I want to talk with you about some shorter races to run. I would like to do a few 5ks this summer.

@John - We will tackle St. George together hopefully!

@Spencer - Wish I could have seen you and run together for a bit.

@Jake - I feel like I am continuing to improve. Any tips for this next cycle would be greatly appreciated. I don't really know what will step me up to the next notch, whatever that will be. (also, i posted that book suggestion today)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy. First run post Boston and I consider it a shakeout run. Took Grey in the stroller at about 6:30pm. My quads were pretty sore by the end along with my right soleus

Going to keep things slow. Have 2 weeks before a 5k.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy on the treadmill. Felt 10 times better than yesterday. Going to keep it slow and easy this entire week and hopefully feel alright by next Saturday to clip off a decent 5k.

On my way home from Boston I read parts of "Iron War" after I read a great book that my uncle suggested while we were there (more on that in one sec). Iron War is worth reading if you have not picked it up. I was feeling a little defeated on the flight as I thought about my race. I thought this quote was worth sharing.

That experience of having to drag yourself across the finish line when there's a thousand and one times you want to quit, when you don't feel you can make it, but somehow you do, it gives you a perspective within which to always have a shred of hope that somehow it will turn around for you. And when you have that inside, no matter how bad it looks., there is always a part of you that will continue to give it what you have.

The book my uncle suggested is short, only took about 2 hours to read. Super entertaining and informative as well. It is called "The Curmudgeon's Guide to Getting Ahead: Dos and Don'ts of Right Behavior, Tough Thinking, Clear Writing, and Living a Good Life" It made me laugh out loud on the plane and think about a few changes I could make in my professional and personal life.

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.00
Comments
From ACorn on Wed, Apr 30, 2014 at 22:54:23 from 71.213.41.74

Thanks for the book review, I'm always looking to add to my list. Iron War was a phenomenal read, I had no idea about the intense rivalry between Allen and Scott . The book did a great job of showing the differences in their training and personalities.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

Another easy 4 this morning but I did push the pace for about .2 just to see how it felt. Was alright.

Spent a couple hours at the spa last night and got a massage thanks to a free entry to Kura Door in the avenues. I think it helped my legs feel better overall.

Headed down to St. George after work to watch the half ironman tomorrow. Should be a tough day with the heat.

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.501.000.000.004.50

LONG DAY! - 4 miles along the parkway in St. George in the eveing to cap it off. 

Drove down to St. George yesterday after work. Got in about 10:30. Couldn't sleep well for whatever reason. I woke up every hour. I think I was worried about missing my 4:10 alarm. Arose at 4:10 and got to the lake at 5. Spent the entire day in the sun chasing athletes around and taking pictures. My sister-in-law completed her first half ironman.

At about 9pm I decided to head out for a short run. I was going to just do an easy 4-6 because I was pretty beat from being on my feet all day. A friend suggested I head to the parkway to run. I didn't know it was a bunch of rollers. Where I started from it was downhill with a slight tailwind. Ended up at a 7:15. Ran the second in 7:07 or something back up the hill and into the wind. Then slowed to an 8:05 going up a steeper hill into the wind. Turned back downhill and pushed the pace just to test how I would feel this coming Saturday on the downhill 5k. Didn't push too hard and ran near 6:30. Ended the run with a hike to the top of the DIXIE rock to take a night picture. 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 4.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 pretty easy along legacy parkway pushing Grey in the stroller. 7:55 average despite the headwind and stroller. Took it mostly easy, but tossed in a couple of pickups just to see how the legs were feeling. Did one .5 at about a 6:30. 

I think I am going to shoot for a 5:30 first mile on Saturday and then try and hangon. I am only worried about the set of 20 stairs shortly after mile one!

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy on the treadmill this morning. I didn't wake up early enough to get out longer than the 4 miles. 

Nothing hurts when I run, but I am still having some left hamstring pain as I sit at work throughout the day. I heated it yesterday and will do again today. Hopefully it helps. Probably need to try and roll it as well. Ideas?

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 along the parkway with Josh. 4 strides tossed into the last mile. I have been trying to work on my form a little bit lately. It started to fall apart during the last pickup for sure. When I was reaching my top speed, I went into sprint mode and I am glad that Josh pointed it out. At that top speed I tend to hunch more and tense up. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy - I was feeling super tired this morning and almost crawled back in bed. I figured if I got an easy 4 in it would help my legs feel better. That's how my bed lost the argument. Took it easy on the treadmill and then hit the foam roller for a bit before leaving for work. My left hamstring is still aching a bit and I don't know why.

I am trying to figure out how I can get a good warmup in on Saturday before the 5k. The race starts at 6:30 and the bus leaves at 6:00. Obviously the bus doesn't have to drive far, but I might try and warmup a little before boarding the bus and then a little right before the race. I don't want to leave it all to before the race and have the bus show up only 5 minutes before the start. Now I am rambling.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 4.00
Race: Vigor Utah 5k (3.107 Miles) 00:18:16, Place overall: 2, Place in age division: 2
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.000.003.100.006.10

Sure, the time was a PR for the 5k for me, but it was aided and poorly executed. I am glad I did it because it was a learning experience and that is the mode I am in right now, learning. I am happy with a second place finish, but recognize the field was not that fast. Golden Harper (altra founder) took first. He was hoping for sub-16 and ended up in the 16:30s I think.

I am not going to bother to put split times because I don't know if my watch was working or what was going on. I went out too fast and slowed considerably. I have no excuses other than I couldn't make it happen perfectly today, but below is the story of how it transpired. 

I got to the race with plenty of time to grab all the runmehappy gear (tent, banner, chairs, etc) and walk them to the finish line where the booth would be. I warmed up just a little because I didn't know how much time I would have after the bus dropped us off. Ended up that we had about 20 minutes at the start so I did my official warmup there. I walked up to the starting line at about 6:27 and there were cones setup but no timing strip. The one guy there said that it would be there soon and that we would start in about 5 to 10 minutes. 

I turned and jogged up the canyon to keep moving. About 100 yards away, I hear a horn go off and look back to see runners starting. I cruised it to the start and asked the guy what happened. He told me that he got a call that simply said, "Start in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1." He explained that we were running off of the 10k start instead of waiting for the strip and our times would stop when we crossed the finishline strip. Ok, whatever.

For whatever reason when I saved my warmup session to my garmin, it lost satellite, or so it appeared. I stood there at the start and told the guy I was not starting until my watch was working and that I would just record my time. It seemed like it took forever so I finally just told him I was going to go. He said the race clock was at 3:31 and I told him to say go at 3:45 so he would know that is when I started.

I was obviously all alone at this point. I looked at my watch a few times and it was reading in the high 3:00s and then 4:00s. First mile was 4:54. Like I said, I have no idea if that is accurate, but it could have been. It was steep and I could tell I was going too fast, but just didn't trust what my watch was saying. 

I slowed considerably and didn't feel great the last mile. I finished and after making it through the finish area I kneeled on the grass. A few minutes later I vomited once. That made me feel quite a bit better and within 5 minutes I was not really nauseated anymore. 

So, there you have it. A few lessons learned. 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.10
Comments
From Hille on Sat, May 10, 2014 at 16:53:21 from 24.10.218.179

Nice run, man. You live and learn. That is some good speed, I will have to work to keep up with you.

From Glory in the long run on Mon, May 12, 2014 at 15:29:35 from 24.151.171.49

I have had the exact same experience of the race starting without me. I was at the Orem 10K and communicated w/ start guys and they said we had some time, I then proceeded to pass nearly everyone in the field. True lessons learned, but it made for a good race cuz you're passing people and just trying to run your race. Good job.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

I don't handle disappointment well. 

Sometimes, 6 easy miles makes me feel quite a bit better.

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Hille on Mon, May 12, 2014 at 11:21:25 from 24.10.218.179

What disappointment? Lets hope we both get in today. I definitely would love to run sub 2:50.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, May 12, 2014 at 12:04:53 from 50.203.76.218

John - I was just disappointed with Saturday and how it turned out. Such is life.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 on the parkway with Josh - 7:10 average

I got into the St. George Marathon and have a goal to run sub-2:50. I think with the right cycle of training I can pull it off. There is a good group of us that got in so it will be fun to train and run it together. 

I am going to take the next couple of weeks easy and see if I can get all of my little nags and niggles to heal up before I start my cycle June 1.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
11.350.000.000.0011.35

AM
6 - through the neighborhood and then south on the parkway. First time I made it directly home from a run without making a wrong turn in the new neighborhood. Slowly I will learn the street names and not get lost.

PM
hiked up and ran down Mt. Wire. Pretty rough going up, but felt nice to open up on the way down. I have not uploaded my watch data yet. I am interested to see what the vertical climb was in those first 2 miles.

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 5.35Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7 along the parkway going north with Josh

I thought my calves would be worse this morning from last night's hike, but they were ok...not great. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 7.00
Comments
From ACorn on Thu, May 15, 2014 at 19:59:14 from 174.52.64.183

Nice training this week.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, May 16, 2014 at 09:02:44 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Adam. Just trying to take it somewhat easy and enjoy it for a couple weeks before I jump into my fall marathon cycle.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Quads are pretty sore. I assume it is from the hike the other night. I pounded out some pretty fast miles on the descent. I might do a few easy miles tonight, but probably not. My brother-in-law has asked me to run the second half of the Ogden Marathon with him tomorrow so I will be doing that unless he changes his mind before then. Honestly, I hope he decides not to run it!

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
11.001.000.000.0012.00

12 along the parkway. 8 were with Adam and we did one mile at marathon pace for fun.

My quads are crazy sore. I think running easy today helped but I still feel like what I assume an old man feels like while walking down stairs.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 12.00
Comments
From ACorn on Sun, May 18, 2014 at 21:12:12 from 71.213.41.74

Thanks for the run, way to add on another 4 after I took off. Maybe I will build to double digits one day.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy on the mill - If you have Netflix, I recommend you watch Rising from Ashes. It is a documentary about a Rwanda cycling team. Pretty cool story with quality cinematography and music. 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 along the parkway north with Josh and Adam.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From ACorn on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 16:04:25 from 71.213.41.74

Thanks for the run. Getting out early is brutal but the cooler temps and good company make it much better.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 16:17:22 from 50.203.76.218

Totally agree Adam. Thanks for joining. It is nice to just chat and not realize the pace. One day I may get close to the caliber of you and Josh.

From ACorn on Tue, May 20, 2014 at 16:27:39 from 71.213.41.74

You think too highly of me. You're right there with me, Josh has definitely moved up a level or two.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 through the neighborhood and onto the parkway. It was another success in that I didn't get lost coming home. Tried to focus on my stride and form today and just be steady and relax. Josh and Adam looked a lot more at ease than me yesterday. It was a good exercise for me this morning to try and keep my breathing in check and my heart rate down. Ended up averaging a couple seconds faster than yesterday though I was not focusing on pace and it felt easier today. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7 easy on the parkway going south with Josh and Adam. I am liking the morning runs with the morning crew. Perfect weather and great company. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.00
Comments
From ACorn on Thu, May 22, 2014 at 12:19:45 from 71.213.41.74

It was a fine morning. Josh cracked me up several times on the run which takes some of the sting out of the early time.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

50 minutes on the mill. I'll consider it 6 miles. I am excited for this weekend and a couple of long(er) runs and enjoying the holiday up in Park City.

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.0010.000.000.0020.00

Josh, John, Scott, and I drove down to Orem and met up with a big group that ran part of the Utah Valley course this AM. We ran from Wallsburg to Orem. Fun to run with so many people. I need to get my hands on the video of 14 of us funneling out of the mini van!

20 total. We did the first 7.5 at a 7:12 average (which was a little faster than I was originally planning, but I was happy about it in hindsight). The next 10 I had planned on at "marathon pace," which I don't really know how to define right now. I was thinking I could handle 6:45 and didn't want to end up slower than that. Ended up averaging 6:39 for the tempo, which I am pleased with. So, 6:54 average for 17.5 and then the last 2.5 I jogged in slow and steady to cool down. 

I feel like this was a great run to see where I am at right now and where I need to be by the fall. This was the fastest 20 mile training run I have ever done. Usually I reserve my long runs for a moderate pace without any type of workout thrown in. This cycle, I am going to mix that up.

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 20.00
Comments
From Matt Poulsen on Sat, May 24, 2014 at 17:44:23 from 50.168.224.197

Great run, and impressive splits! You've set yourself up for a good year. Very nice to meet you. I agree with you mixing it up sometimes in long runs. You will see great benefits from doing so.

From Josh E on Sat, May 24, 2014 at 21:42:43 from 65.130.119.46

Really good run. You are going to see big gains doing these.

I requested to add you as a friend on facebook. Scott posted the video there.

Matt - facebook is a social tool used to connect with and keep track of friends and loved ones.

From Hille on Sat, May 24, 2014 at 21:53:30 from 24.10.218.179

Solid run this morning. It was good to work together and we will have to get many more runs in the coming months.

From Ben VanBeekum on Sun, May 25, 2014 at 12:58:59 from 73.52.132.7

I have been doing 10-15 mile tempo efforts in my longs for awhile now and have seen a huge jump in my fitness level. Not a bad idea to include them in a marathon cycle.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy on the mill to shake out the legs from yesterday and loosen them up for tomorrow.

I watched the crossfit regional games for a bit because my cousin is competing this weekend. It is odd.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 4.00
Comments
From ACorn on Mon, May 26, 2014 at 21:01:38 from 71.213.41.74

Nice little shakeout after a big day. Cool that you were able to run with the group, I'm sure I'll join you guys soon.

Great mileage as of late, looking forward to running lots with you this Summer.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.001.000.000.0013.00

13 with a great group this morning in Jeremy Ranch. Jake, Josh, Rob, John, Fritz, Collin, and I.

Big thanks to them for dragging me along.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 13.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Took the AM off. Might take the entire day off or might log a few easy tonight. Not too concerned as I don't really have a set schedule for another week or so when I start my fall marathon cycle.

I put in a decent effort over the weekend, so a rest day sounds quite nice.

PM - Ended up not running. My neck and back have been giving me some issues so I spent some time doing some stretching and yoga and got in bed early.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 from West High Track up Memory Grove and around the Aves with Josh and Adam. It was fun to run around the neighborhood where Whit and I spent the first 4 years of our marriage before taking off to law school. 

It was hot this morning. I wish it was 25-30 degrees cooler. Oh well. It will come back in a few months.

There has been a lot of talk of Crossfit in my family lately because my cousin just competed in some regional competition in southern California. I figure THIS is worth sharing.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Josh E on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 13:32:17 from 205.235.104.4

I enjoyed the inaugaral group run. That seems like a pretty good second spot. We can finish off with strides on the track.

From ACorn on Wed, May 28, 2014 at 23:01:00 from 71.213.41.74

The woman at 2 minutes in that video scares me. Nice run today!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.504.000.000.007.50

7.5 - 2 mile up, 4 progression tempo, 1.5 down.

I had not planned on a tempo. Was going to just toss in some strides near the end of the run. But, mile 3 ended up at 6:50 so I just went with it. 6:29 average - 6:50, 6:28, 6:27, 6:13

I might just start linking a video a day - This is why biking scares me.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.50
Comments
From ACorn on Thu, May 29, 2014 at 08:26:45 from 71.213.41.74

Great tempo, I plan on working one of those a week into my training. Maybe one of our weekly runs can include that so we don't have to do them on our own.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, May 29, 2014 at 08:39:27 from 50.203.76.218

Adam - thanks. It was rough by the end. I agree, it always helps to have others to suffer with.

From Josh E on Thu, May 29, 2014 at 16:59:03 from 166.137.209.28

Good tempo fo sho. You and Hille may just have to adjust your goals downward if you keep going like this.

From SpencerSimpson on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 00:58:57 from 166.137.209.27

Nice work James. The improvement is coming. You will continue to see the fruits over the year. Excited for ya. MIH

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy on the parkway going north with Josh and Adam. Solid morning crew with a few really good laughs.

Speaking of humor, I just spoke to a client on the phone and she used the phrase "Up to my ears in alligators" to describe how busy she has been. I had never heard that before.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From ACorn on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 08:33:09 from 71.213.41.74

I'm really enjoying these runs and am actually getting on a good sleep schedule. Your turn in to the parking lot was movie worthy.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, May 30, 2014 at 08:34:35 from 50.203.76.218

Haha, next time I am going to pull the e-brake and slide into my spot. I will warn you before, not so you are free from danger but so you get a cool video of it!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.501.000.000.0017.50

Tough workout to end the week. Goal was 16 miles with one or so fast at the end. Wanted to hover between 7:30-7:45 on the way out and near 7:20 on the way back but mostly off of feel. Then one mile sub-7 and perhaps a half near 6:30.

Ran the parkway North for 8 miles with Scott (avg 7:28). Scott's stomach started acting up so he backed off. First few heading back felt good (7:14, 7:12, 7:13) and then a strong headwind came out of nowhere. I upped the effort to maintain (7:18, 7:22, 7:17). Pushed hard for the last effort and came in at 6:57.

Though it was a little slower at the end, I am pleased with the effort and being able to push through.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 17.50
Comments
From Josh E on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 11:24:17 from 65.130.119.46

Nice run. It's very hard to turn it up a notch at the end.

From Hille on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 12:04:00 from 24.10.218.179

Solid run, good way to finish the week.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, May 31, 2014 at 20:39:12 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Josh and John. It was a good workout for sure and a good cap to the week.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Finalizing my training schedule for St. George today. It will be a work in progress and I am sure some things will change here and there, but I like having the structure of a written out plan. I have some pretty aggressive goals that I hope I can meet.

 

Comments
From Hille on Sun, Jun 01, 2014 at 18:11:15 from 174.239.105.138

Nice, you are on top of it. I would like to see it sometime.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Jun 02, 2014 at 09:16:04 from 50.203.76.218

Hille, I think it is going to end up being a 16 week schedule. The next two weeks I am not going to do any real "structured" workouts. I am going to do some strides here and there and maybe a progression run to warn the legs that some faster workouts are coming soon. Like you said, I think one of my main goals is going to be hitting the mileage and building endurance. We need to get in some downhill runs sub-6 before DesNews though.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.300.000.000.006.30

6.3 along the parkway with Adam, Collin, and Josh.

[update] all 100 Benjamins were real guys...or at least America First thought so.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.30
Comments
From ACorn on Tue, Jun 03, 2014 at 07:50:48 from 71.213.41.74

"It's All About the Benjamins"-Puff Daddy / P. Diddy / Diddy / Sean Combs

Nice doing some reps on the track with you this morning.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.001.250.007.25

Headed to the West High track to mostly keep Josh company on his workout. I had planned on 6-7 miles with some strides for today, but thought I could just jump in periodically with Josh on his 400s and get what I was looking for. Ended up doing 2 x 400 and 6 x 200 with some other strides tossed in here and there. It was nice to have Adam and Josh at the track. Josh pushed through a tough workout with lots of factors weighing in favor of cutting it short. 

Aside from running -- Now that I am no longer in school, I have been able to read more of what I actually want and not just text books. It has made me think about the process of obtaining knowledge and what is knowledge in general. My friend said something interesting yesterday when I was chatting with him about it that I figured some might find interesting. Below is his comment.

It is my belief that all knowledge comes from experience. The best way I have thought about explaining this idea is to describe knowledge like a tree. Each branch represents a different kind of knowledge acquisition based on a certain type of experience: the religion branch, the gender branch, the spiritual branch, the parent branch, etc. Each separate branch is unique because the knowledge within each is acquired through a different type of experience.
 
I think you would agree that you get a very different set of knowledge when you become a parent. It is not scientific knowledge. It is not even religious knowledge.
 
In my observation, the world (particularly the scientific world) believes that all knowledge is obtained or can be obtained in the same way scientific knowledge is obtained. I think this is false. If I were to perform a scientific experiment and pick up one of your children and get a hug, I would acquire different knowledge than each of you would acquire. Science requires the same information/result from the experiment no matter who performs the experiment. 
 

Your parent experience/knowledge provides you with different knowledge than I could obtain through the scientific experiment. No matter how much scientific knowledge I obtain about your children, I would not know them or about them in the way that you do. (A wrinkle in this example is the practice of adoption, but that is for another day.)
 
There are all kinds of examples that illustrate the difficulty with claiming that all knowledge is obtained in the same manner as scientific knowledge. There is knowledge that we have as men that our wives do not have. The same is equally as true. We will never understand them, at least not in this life. No matter how many science experiments we conduct, we would not acquire the same type of “gender” knowledge our wives have.
 
I think the same thing happens in spiritual or religious matters. In church, we talk about seeing things with “spiritual eyes.” I think that spiritual experience is the path to spiritual knowledge. The same would be true of other types of knowledge and experience: gender/religious/parent experience leads to gender/religious/parent knowledge. I do not believe we obtain these types of knowledge through scientific experiments.
 
Sorry that was so long. Obviously, feel free to comment. Or, just ponder. I am still processing what he said.
 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 7.25
Comments
From ACorn on Tue, Jun 03, 2014 at 09:22:18 from 71.213.41.74

Interesting comment. First thing that comes to mind is that there are correct, specific answers when dealing with science and its various branches like math. There's only one way to arrive at the right solution especially when things get more complex.

With parenting, religion or gender, just to use the example, there doesn't seem to be a definitive solution. I decide what works best for me in these areas and adapt. Your experience in these areas will not be mine or the same as anyone else. So, differing experience will lead to different "knowledge" and solutions in these areas.

I will revisit this and ponder during the day, maybe a good discussion for tomorrow's run.

From Josh E on Tue, Jun 03, 2014 at 14:36:09 from 205.235.104.4

I like that Adam put "knowledge" in quotation marks because what is really being espoused here is lack of knowledge. There are certain things that aren't known but perceived or understood and can not be proven with empircal evidence.

Thus, the conclusions made by different folks vary and can only be reinforced with the anecdotal evidence of the perceiver.

Does he think that some conclusions are superior to others in these realms and why? For example, would he then say that an honest thirst for spiritual knowledge can lead to only one conclusion or does he embrace the diversity of "knowledge" on this subject?

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Jun 03, 2014 at 15:05:06 from 50.203.76.218

Yes, he believes that an "honest thirst for spiritual knowledge" leads to only one conclusion. However, if he takes this stance, it seems that he would be contradicting everything that he claims above.

From Josh E on Tue, Jun 03, 2014 at 15:11:46 from 205.235.104.4

That's certainly the way I read it!

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Jun 03, 2014 at 15:27:47 from 50.203.76.218

Ok, let's suppose that an honest thirst leads to only one conclusion. Could you reconcile the problem with this argument by stating there is a finite amount of knowledge or a limit to the length of each branch of the tree?

If this is the case, an honest thirst would lead to full "spiritual knowledge" and thus one conclusion. Our different experiences on the other branches are each a reflection of partial knowledge on those subjects and thus can vary by experience.

From Josh E on Tue, Jun 03, 2014 at 16:47:43 from 205.235.104.4

I suppose if there is a tree of knowledge that exists as an absolute, what he is saying is that certain things can be known through empirical data and logic and other things we can't fully know because there is no way to gain a fullness of knowledge from our limited vantage point.

Thus you propose that perhaps our trees are subsets of this tree with nonexistent, rotten or twisted branches and some that only go so far. I understand that, but I disagree.

Like I said in Allie's comment board earlier this year, I don't know what value there is in having absolute answers to raising children. Your friend seems to on the one hand appreciate and respect the the diversity of experiences each parent has but on the other hand, if absolute knowledge is required, then the conclusions reached by many are inferior or wrong altogether. Twisted or rotten branches.

Same for spirituality. The spiritual experiences of billions are cast aside because they missed finding the one correct answer due to a lack of faith or opportunity (go ye into all the world). Their branch is rotten, twisted or missing even though they may have done much soul searching and considered it in great depth.

I have not found it helpful to approach issues with the "I'm right, you're wrong" mentality. I have found I prefer the "let's get through this together" mentality.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.900.003.100.008.00

8 mile loop with Josh and Adam. Did a 5k downhill tempo to test my legs a bit. Big thanks to Josh and Adam for letting me chase their heels. We have a good morning crew where we can each push eachother on different days...mostly they just push me. Pull me is probably the better term.

The 5k was actually the fastest I have covered that distance so I am happy about that. It was aided, but was still a good effort and I was glad to see what I could handle. I stopped my watch a hair early I think so I will call it an even 18:00. Splits show - 17:56 - 5:56, 5:53, 5:41, and 0:27 (hair short).

Oh, and HAPPY 

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From ACorn on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 08:19:02 from 71.213.41.74

Nice run this morning. Those are great confidence builders. I was surprised how fast we closed the last mile, I didn't think we would speed up by that much. It'll be fun seeing how much we can improve over the Summer.

From Jake K on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 08:20:12 from 159.212.71.200

Nice workout - all of you guys!

From allie on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 08:31:57 from 65.130.129.9

nice job to the JAJ crew. pretty big drop in pace over that last mile!

From Josh E on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 08:55:49 from 205.235.104.4

Nice work and great finish. No worries re whether you broke 18 because this is just a starting point!

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 10:44:21 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks all!

I think Allie just gave us our name. Josh was thinking "North Salt Lake Crew" but the URL would just be too long. Do we pronounce JAJ as "jay-aye-jay" or "jadge" or maybe "jage?"

From Jake K on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 10:46:55 from 159.212.71.200

Sounds like the JAJA torch has officially been passed.

But like the Spurs... don't count us out forever...

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 10:52:30 from 50.203.76.218

Now I am thinking how long we could get with the JA combo. J's seem to out number the A's.

From Jake K on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 10:54:15 from 159.212.71.200

We got it out to 7 or 8 a few years ago. Those were the days!

From Josh E on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 10:54:16 from 205.235.104.4

We'll see you in 7 years Jake. Seriously not accepting the JAJA torch though.

And if I said North Salt Lake Crew, I apologize. Salt Lake North Crew maybe. North Salt Lake Crew? Hayz nah!

From Jake K on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 11:41:06 from 159.212.71.200

Make sure you incorporate the NSL smokestacks into your logo. And maybe the smell of the lake into your singlets?

I am excited about the Real North Salt Lake Redskins! That's your team name, right?

From allie on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 12:06:35 from 172.56.9.195

"the torch is never truly passed, but rather the flame spreads until we are all one poofing bonfire." -marie osmond

JAJA will most definitely be back to join forces with JAJ for the *classic* stericycle loop.

From Hille on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 13:21:38 from 24.10.218.179

Nice run. Good thing I didn't join you this morning, another J would have messed everything up.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jun 04, 2014 at 13:26:20 from 50.203.76.218

We welcome all John. Another J and we would just have had to mix it up to AJJJ. Though it is more difficult to make three J's and one A aesthetically pleasing.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 easy on the parkway. Wanted to get out for a few more but had to get into work. I hope to get out for another short run this evening, but now I might be fixing, or attempting to fix, my car. Anyone know anything about replacing a clutch cylinder and slave cylinder?

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.00
Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 09:38:14 from 159.212.71.17

I don't know a ton about cars, but it sounds like you'll need duct tape.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 10:04:55 from 50.203.76.218

Duct tape will be utilized...no question there.

From ACorn on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 14:18:20 from 71.213.41.74

You guys both know more than I do. I would have no idea where to put the duct tape.

From Josh E on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 14:38:26 from 205.235.104.4

I thought it was called duck tape. How did the legs feel this morning?

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 14:44:09 from 50.203.76.218

Legs felt good. I was a little tired and took a few miles to feel alright like usual. However, not really sore from yesterday other than a little in the quads.

From ACorn on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 15:11:23 from 71.213.41.74

Good news that neither of us had sore legs! I'm thinking we should do that run every couple of weeks.

From Fritz on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 15:12:10 from 50.243.2.233

Duck tape is a brand of duct tape. You apparently aren't using enough duct tap to fix stuff.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 15:15:39 from 50.203.76.218

I agree Adam. Glad we were not sore and I think that every couple weeks will be nice.

Josh, don't you have some sprinkler problems you need fixed? Go buy some Duck Duct Tape tonight.

From Josh E on Thu, Jun 05, 2014 at 15:34:22 from 205.235.104.4

Fixed the sprinkler yesterday without Duck Tape Duct Tape. That's a terrible recommendation, btw, as it is an inferior brand of duct tape in my experience.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

I missed the group run this morning because a 7lb reason came up at 2:10am. Whit (mom) and Olive (baby girl) are both doing well.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From ACorn on Fri, Jun 06, 2014 at 08:16:25 from 71.213.41.74

Big congrats! Glad to hear that all is well.

From Josh E on Fri, Jun 06, 2014 at 08:34:22 from 65.130.119.46

Wow - you still got your six in. Nice work! (on the baby that is)

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Jun 06, 2014 at 12:34:14 from 67.128.146.20

Thanks guys. It worked out that I was wide eyed at 7 and Whit was going to take a nap while Olive was headed to the nursery. The 6 felt a little labored.

From Rob Murphy on Fri, Jun 06, 2014 at 19:17:37 from 24.10.249.34

Wow! Congratulations!

Take care of everyone and try to get some sleep.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.000.000.000.0018.00

18 - kept it within 2 miles of the hospital and ran with my phone so Whit could contact me if needed.

(Now that I look, I really should have gone .45 more)

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 18.00
Comments
From Josh E on Sat, Jun 07, 2014 at 22:47:23 from 65.130.119.46

Way to fit it in. Are you home yet?

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Jun 07, 2014 at 22:55:54 from 67.128.146.20

Thanks Josh. It was a good training run. We head home in the morning.

From ACorn on Mon, Jun 09, 2014 at 09:17:04 from 71.213.41.74

You're mentally tough to get out and loop around the hospital like that. Nice run!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.002.500.000.008.50

8.5

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 8.50
Comments
From ACorn on Tue, Jun 10, 2014 at 17:39:31 from 71.213.41.74

Nice run. Has your training officially begun?

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Jun 10, 2014 at 17:52:36 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Adam. I think my training officially begins next week. That will be 16 weeks out. Hopefully I can get some company at some of the track workouts so I can put in some decent times.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7 along the parkway solo. Collin and Adam didn't have a need to wake up so early so we didn't gather.

Had a couple miles around the 7:00 mark and they felt easy, which I am pleased with. I used to struggle quite a bit at that pace.

Thinking of a good challenging run for Saturday, just need to find someone to do it with. Wanting to get 5ish miles in around 6:00 downhill to prepare a bit for DesNews Half.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Hille on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 09:19:08 from 67.128.146.20

Come join me, I will be attempting some faster downhill miles

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 09:21:31 from 50.203.76.218

I thought about that John. I don't know where I would join though. I can't afford another race entry and don't know where would be a good spot to jump in to pace along with you.

From ACorn on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 14:02:04 from 71.213.41.74

Great run! I'm impressed with your consistency and dedication especially with the new addition.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

I made the decision this morning to sleep in. I have had a few little aches here and there and have been trying to catch up on sleep since last Thursday. I figure the rest will be better for me than an easy 6-8 mile run. I want to be caught up the best I can by next week which will be 16 weeks from St. George. I don't want to officially start my cycle already tired. 

I got into work and watched THIS VIDEO of the last mile of a sprint triathlon with 7 guys fighting for the win and it really made me want to go run.

 

Comments
From ACorn on Thu, Jun 12, 2014 at 11:03:41 from 71.213.41.74

Good call today, I had a similar morning. You're already heading into this cycle in good shape.

From Burt on Fri, Jun 13, 2014 at 20:16:45 from 174.17.249.246

That was a cool video.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7 with Adam and a bazzillion gnats along the parkway. The time flies chatting with Adam and chewing on bugs. At one point Adam claimed to have just run directly through the plague.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.002.006.000.0020.00

Essentially ran the DesNews Half route this morning with Adam and Scott. Goal was to run 5 miles in the canyon at a 6:00 average and then just take the rest easy with another pickup on south temple to see how the legs would feel.

The 5 in the canyon were tough but they went by relatively quickly. Splits were 6:04(5:51), 5:50(5:49), 5:52, 6:05, 6:00. Thus, 5:58 (5:55) average. (Adam's splits in parenthesis. We were side by side for the first 2 miles. Who knows for sure, but we think my watch showed my first mile slow. Also Scott's first said 6:04 and he was about 10-15 seconds behind us. No big deal though.)

We slowed to low 7s and then did about a mile at sub-6 pace on south temple.

My right soleus was feeling pretty tight but the wood chips felt good so I cooled down with a few laps.

Overall, I am pleased with this workout.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 20.00
Comments
From AngieB on Sat, Jun 14, 2014 at 11:45:46 from 65.130.80.86

That's a great tempo! Sub 1:20 for sure

From ACorn on Sat, Jun 14, 2014 at 12:30:02 from 71.213.41.74

Another fun run! Can't believe you went 20. You're on the edge of a breakthrough.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Jun 14, 2014 at 14:42:06 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Angie! It is going to be tough but possibly doable.

Thanks Adam. The wood chips just felt so nice and easy.

From allie on Sat, Jun 14, 2014 at 16:16:53 from 174.27.200.174

very nice run, james.

From james (runmehappy) on Sun, Jun 15, 2014 at 12:25:57 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Allie. I appreciate it.

From Josh E on Sun, Jun 15, 2014 at 16:47:26 from 65.130.119.46

Nice week for you James and nice finish to it. Sounds like exactly the kind of tune up I like to try and always good to have the likes of Adam to run down the hill with.

From james (runmehappy) on Sun, Jun 15, 2014 at 19:41:55 from 75.169.135.163

Thanks Josh. I assumed you would approve of this workout.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7 on the parkway with Josh and Adam. Thankfully no gnats. My legs felt heavy from Saturday so it was nice to have an easy pace.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 7.00
Comments
From ACorn on Mon, Jun 16, 2014 at 13:32:31 from 71.213.41.74

Another good run. It was nice to keep it a bit easier today.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Jun 16, 2014 at 13:44:59 from 50.203.76.218

Agreed. I feeling Saturday's run still.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.002.850.258.10

Headed to the West High track despite opening my garage to rain. Figured it would at least keep me cool. Turned out to be a great morning. Goal was 12x400 with 200 active recovery. I am trying to figure out my paces right now and Josh had suggested this workout to determine about what my 5k should be. So, I had a goal of 88-90 seconds for each. I have run faster 400s before, but have never done 12 and have never done only 200 active recovery and then straight into the next 400. I usually stop for about 10-15 seconds after the 200s and then start the next 400.

I was pleased with the workout and know a little bit better where I am now. Thanks to Josh for jumping in on every other 400 and for 200 on the offs.

88, 90, 88, 88, 89, 87, 88, 86, 86, 86, 80, 76 and a 32 for 200 to hit 5k.

 

THIS comic made me smile...hoping to never have little dracula kisses!

 

My fathers day gift arrived today!

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 8.10
Comments
From Hille on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 08:46:11 from 67.128.146.116

Nice workout, I need to do some speed workouts also.

From Josh E on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 08:55:44 from 205.235.104.4

Nice job. Now to bang out a 17:44 5k.

From allie on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 09:18:55 from 161.38.221.168

whirrr! nice job -- consistent all the way through. 76, 32 to finish is awesome. big 5k PR on the way.

From ACorn on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 09:54:25 from 71.213.41.74

Nice workout, I agree with Josh that you're very capable of going sub 18 right now on a flat course.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 12:01:52 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks all. I appreciate it. Next official 5k will be the Murray Fun Days on the 4th of July. I know that is not flat so I will have to think about what I can handle there.

I ran a 19:25 last year and that was my first 5k.

From Jake K on Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 13:26:34 from 199.190.170.24

Murray is slower than a flat course, maybe ~30 seconds compared to something like Draper Days. In any case, you're going to smash up the time you ran there last year. Nice workout.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.002.000.008.00

Met Adam and Josh for our 8 mile loop from West High through the avenues. Warmed up 4 and then Josh wanted to do 2 faster miles. I didn't really know what I was going to do as far as pace so I just wanted to stay sub-6. The first was alright, but I was definitely pushing myself. I was pleased when it came in at 5:34. I slowed on the second along the flat section before turning down into Memory Grove. Along that section I thought about backing off the effort and just being satisfied with a 6:00 flat. I dismissed that and decided to push the pace again on the down. I was hoping to drop the average back down into the 5:30s, but it came in at 5:44. Pleased with the times and my ability to not give up during mile 2 when I wanted to. 

The inagural run in the Kinvara 5s was a pleasure. They are super light, comfortable, and all around dreamy.

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From ACorn on Wed, Jun 18, 2014 at 11:21:02 from 71.213.41.74

It took me a while to catch my breath after your,"Adios, chile relleno!" send off. You're getting comfortable at sub 6 which will serve you very well. Your description of the new Kinvaras makes me want a pair even more.

From Josh E on Wed, Jun 18, 2014 at 13:30:11 from 205.235.104.4

Nice morning run and great speed with the lack of sleep and all. Things will start to come together for you real nice in the near future.

You need a pair Adam. I'm a true believer. I'm on my 6th pair of 3-5 version.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jun 18, 2014 at 14:46:39 from 50.203.76.218

Adam, I am glad you didn't have to say "adios" to that chile relleno!

You should buy 2 pair.

Josh, I am hoping that the speed I am putting in pays off. I am definitely getting more comfortable at the quicker turnover.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.002.000.000.009.00

9 miles along the parkway.

The goal of today's run was to just feel comfortable at a moderate pace with touching close to marathon pace. I wanted to feel comfortable and not have to really work to achieve the pace. Wanted 8 miles to average about 7:05, start near 7:30, have a gradual progression down to about 6:50, and back off for the last to cool down.

7:25, 7:02, 6:54, 6:51, 6:50, 6:47, 6:42, 7:08

I had time for one more mile so I did an easy cool down at 7:46

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 9.00
Comments
From ACorn on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 10:31:48 from 71.213.41.74

Great run today! You've had three tougher days in a row. MIH!!!!

From Josh E on Thu, Jun 19, 2014 at 10:58:21 from 63.226.66.73

Nice work. Pretty steady progression. If you felt good afterward (like you didn't just do a workout) and hit your workout Saturday, this is is a great sign.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

9 along the parkway with Collin and Adam. 

It's been a good week for me of training so far. Going to shoot for a decent long run tomorrow to end the week. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 9.00
Comments
From CollinAnderson on Fri, Jun 20, 2014 at 11:33:22 from 155.98.15.41

Nice running with you guys. I actually computed all of that stuff on BCC and posted it on Adam's wall, if you're curious. The downhill is more plentiful than I thought, enough to still make it substantially aided (1 second shy of 3 minutes for 3:00:00 marathoner), but this is all based on aerobic conversions. Factoring leg strength, which is much more variable, based on the individual, and therefore something I can't put a number on as easily, I think St George ought to be faster for the vast majority of people. Looking at your Boston splits, I think you were worth at least a 3:01 that day, probably even 2:59 with perfect pacing, and Boston is usually a slow course for most people, so I think you could've been worth even 2:57 that day on a truly fast course like Chicago. I think you should very much be capable of getting the 2:49 at St George if you train right and get in a lot of tempo work (I think stuff like 60 minutes at half marathon effort will be ideal for you). See you Monday.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.508.500.000.0019.00

19 miles - 1,540 ft. up and down - 7:14 average

I have been contemplating this run ever since Josh, Adam, and I ran our 5k time trial across 11th Ave. and down into Memory Grove.

The goal was to run a couple loops in the avenues east on 2nd Ave. to Virginia. North to 11th. West on 11th and down Memory Grove back to 2nd.

I wanted to run 2 miles on the first loop at 6:30 starting at the fire station on 11th and ending on the road into Memory Grove. I didn't have a pace goal for the non-tempo miles, just to keep a decent effort but rather easy. I then wanted to see if I could do the same 2 miles a little faster on the second loop on tired legs.

The first loop went well and I decided to extend to 2.5 for the tempo.

6:24, 6:27, 3:12

The second loop my legs felt a little heavy going up Virginia but the tempo turned out well.

6:16, 6:12, 3:05

I decided if I was going to test my legs I better go round three. I had to work the second half of the tempo but overall the results are pleasing to me.

6:03, 6:01, 3:01

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 19.00
Comments
From Hille on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 12:21:32 from 24.49.168.140

Good work, strong week.

From ACorn on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 13:14:22 from 70.208.11.139

You're slightly insane in the best of ways. I'm impressed that you dropped the pace each loop. V Street has a way of sapping energy from the legs. Awesome run!

From Josh E on Sat, Jun 21, 2014 at 15:26:48 from 65.130.119.46

Always tough going up V street! This is a great endurance builder at a nice pace solo. Great week for you.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Hour hike in Mueller Park with the family. It was super green and easily 10+ degrees cooler up there.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

da flu

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

da flu recovery

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.700.000.000.009.70

35 minutes out and then back along the parkway with Josh. Just wanted to take it easy not knowing how achey I would be after the past few days and my bout with some flu like symptoms. Ended up at 7:08 average and felt good. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 9.70
Comments
From Hille on Wed, Jun 25, 2014 at 10:32:16 from 24.10.218.179

Glad you are feeling better, you guys still running Ragnar this weekend?

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jun 25, 2014 at 10:47:56 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks John. Do you want to join our team again? We had someone drop yesterday!

From Hille on Wed, Jun 25, 2014 at 11:20:47 from 24.10.218.179

Wish I could but Nash had games during the race.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.002.000.0010.00

10 along the parkway. Yesterday I told myself I would maybe do a moderate run today. Then, I decided I was going to take it easy and save my legs for some faster turnover this weekend. When I started, I was going to go easy. Then, I just wanted to get some quicker jaunts in so I did 2 miles in 6:17 and 6:06. I was going to stretch it to 3 miles but decided to pull the plug at 2 because I remembered I am running 40+ miles in 24 hours starting tomorrow morning.

I saw 2 mice and 1 skunk right on the side of the trail with his tail up. I think I picked up the pace about then.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.205.002.000.0022.20

Ragnar - day 1

22.2 miles

1st run - 6.57 miles
2nd run - 6.87 miles (+ .56)
3rd run - 8.3 miles

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 7.43Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 15.17
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.276.000.000.0016.27

Ragnar - day 2

16.27

1st run - 6.4 miles
2nd run - 9.87 miles

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 9.87Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.40
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Didn't sleep well and my left hamstring was hurting all night. Decided it was better to sleep in and rest than get in the easy 6 I had planned. 

Found out we took 1st in the Mens Ultra Division at Ragnar. The Wasatch Running team that Fritz was on ran a faster time so I consider our team second, but they were in the mixed division. 

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.500.002.500.0012.00

AM

I met Josh at the track and had a loose plan to do 6x800 depending on how the legs felt. I have the 5k on Friday so I wanted to feel 5k pace or just a hair faster. Legs felt heavy and my left hamstring area issue was noticeable. After 4 I could tell I was starting to favor the left leg so I did 400s for the last 2 repeats. 

2:53, 2:48(too fast), 2:56, 2:54, 85, 87.

I am pleased with this workout. My legs are still feeling the 40 miles from Ragnar and the jolting downhill. Will likely get in a couple faster miles tomorrow and then have an easy day Thursday.

PM

4.5 easy. I had 35 minutes to kill while Jiffy Lube earned more than I believe they deserve.

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 4.50Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 7.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.002.000.008.00

Memory Grove to Virginia loop with Josh. 2 faster miles averaging 5:52. Going to take it easy tomorrow and hope for the best in the 5k Friday.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy solo along the parkway. Resting up for tomorrow's 5k.

Plan for tomorrow is to run the first mile at 6:00ish, speed up for the second mile, and then hang on. I ran a 19:25 last year and that was my first 5k. I hope to beat that and then some. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Race: Murray Fun Days 5k (3.03 Miles) 00:17:59, Place overall: 16, Place in age division: 1
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.003.000.008.00

I had 3 goals going into this race. "C" goal was to beat my time last year which was 19:25. "B" goal was sub-19. "A" goal was in the 18:30s.

The course was short by everyone's account, but regardless it was a good race for me. I had told myself to run the first mile at 6:00 and then speed up for mile 2 and then hold on. Mile 1 felt good and I backed off a little half way through cause Hille and I were going a little too fast. Mile one was right at 6:00.

Hille and I made the turn back north and I pulled a few body lengths ahead of him. I figured he was right off my shoulder so I didn't even look. Mile 2 felt alright. I wasn't hurting yet and it came in at 5:50. I tried to approach the hill smart and this is when I entered the pain cave. I tried to relax and was able to shake a few demons and refocus. I passed a few people on the hill and that boosted my confidence.

By the top of the hill, mile 3 average was in the 6:20s. I committed to not looking at my watch again and just running off of feel and getting this thing done. Mile 3 was 6:01 (which I am stoked on because last year I faded and ran 3 at a 6:28). When I got close to the end and looked up the clock read 17:51. I figured that had to be wrong but I gave it one last push to come in just under 18:00.

Hille finished about 12 seconds back and ran a great race.

Hope everyone enjoys their 4th! Whit gave me an American flag tank and I couldn't think of a better race to wear it in.

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Sasha Pachev on Fri, Jul 04, 2014 at 13:37:27 from 192.168.1.1

James - congratulations on the breakthrough. It was nice to meet you in person.

From Hille on Sat, Jul 05, 2014 at 09:56:50 from 24.10.218.179

Solid race, wish I could have stayed with you. Now we just need to run that pace for a half.

From Jenruns on Sat, Jul 05, 2014 at 10:11:46 from 98.202.193.89

Great race James! It was nice to meet you in person. And that tank top was the "bee's knees". I totally enjoyed it! Happy 4th :)

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Jul 05, 2014 at 16:32:44 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks all.

Sasha - It has been a good year so far. I am excited.

Hille - You were right there.

Jen - I had a hat to go with it, but thought I would pass out if I ran in it. Maybe next year!

From Rob Murphy on Sun, Jul 06, 2014 at 18:26:48 from 24.10.247.181

Outstanding!

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Jul 07, 2014 at 08:26:52 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Rob. It was a good day. Hope you and the family had a good holiday!

From Josh E on Mon, Jul 07, 2014 at 13:11:21 from 205.235.104.4

Nice race James. Did exactly what you set out to do. Too bad it was short so your official PR will have to come another time. But clearly a big step in the right direction. You need to do Draper Days for redemption.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Jul 07, 2014 at 13:18:52 from 50.203.76.218

Josh, I think I am just going to try and crush the field at the 1k instead of the 5k.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
20.000.000.000.0020.00

Easy along the parkway. Scott was with me for 17. Didn't worry about pace. Just took it easy and steady and logged the miles

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 20.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Easy on the parkway with Josh. Legs felt heavy the first couple of miles, but then they loosened up a bit. Our morning group is dwindling but JJ is holding strong.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.003.000.009.00

Track workout this morning solo. Josh was doing hill repeats and I never heard back from Scott. Thanks to Jake for suggesting this workout. I feel good about the execution and the splits. Goal was 1600, 1200, 800, 400, 4x200. Start at roughly 5k pace or slightly faster and drop the pace with each interval. Active recovery of half the previous split distance and then straight into the next repeat. 3200 warmup and 3200 cooldown as well.

5:40, 4:14, 2:41, 77, 38, 38, 37, 36

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Tue, Jul 08, 2014 at 08:31:14 from 98.202.193.89

Nice workout James! Those are fantastic times!

From Jake K on Tue, Jul 08, 2014 at 11:07:27 from 199.190.170.31

This is a good workout to keep in your repertoire. As you progress, you'll be able to drop the recovery length. Nicely done.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jul 09, 2014 at 08:45:14 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jen and Jake.

Jake, I thought my recovery lengths were pretty decent. What would you say would be good goal recovery lengths?

From Jake K on Wed, Jul 09, 2014 at 08:48:47 from 199.190.170.21

I'm guessing the recoveries were 8-6-4-2, 1-1-1 from the way you worded it?

That's actually pretty good. Eventually I bet you will be able to drop the rest interval after the 16/12 to 400m. But for now, keep the focus on hitting the right paces.

And maybe you did this, but when you are running fast 200s, it's usually good to take a full 200 jog between the reps.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jul 09, 2014 at 08:56:30 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake. I will continue to focus on the right paces and hopefully get to a point where I can drop the recoveries. I should have worded it better, I did do a full 200 jog between the 200s.

From Jake K on Wed, Jul 09, 2014 at 09:01:45 from 199.190.170.21

I assumed... it makes more sense that way :-)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Memory Grove / Avenues loop with Josh. Legs felt less than snappy. Fatigue attributed to yesterday's workout, so I must have done something right...presumably.

I thought this post on KSL was rather clever, yet maybe a little too long.

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Scott on Wed, Jul 09, 2014 at 10:40:11 from 74.95.55.77

Dave Ramsey is a jerk! Stealing slurpees and making us sell old items that we no longer use. Oh, good miles today!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.750.000.000.007.75

Hit snooze on my alarm and contemplated just staying in bed. I didn't sleep well and started to make the argument that sleeping an extra hour would be better and that I would get a run in later. Then my logical side rebutted stating there is no way I would get a run in later this evening. Also, I always regret sleeping more and never regret a run. I was lying there lacking motiviation. Then, the thought came to me that a trail run would be fun and a change of pace. So, on came the trail shoes, which I don't wear often, and I logged some miles on the dirt.

A few of us, maybe more, are going to do a final test or primer for DesNews on Saturday. Don't know exactly what to expect for that race yet. Hope to have a better idea after Saturday.

 

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 7.75
Comments
From Scott on Thu, Jul 10, 2014 at 09:55:57 from 74.95.55.77

I've been telling myself to get out on some trails to shake things up a bit. Nice job on conquering the bed monster today!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Along the parkway with Josh and up into my neighborhood. Gnats seemed to be worse on the way out. Pleasant breeze on the way back. 

I have been informed by several family members that my profile photo is "too revealing" and that I should remove it. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.500.006.500.0020.00

Good run with a couple really good pushes. Had a group of 5 of us - John, Jake, Brayden, Scott, and I.

Ran down emigration to liberty park. Did a push of 5 miles with John. Did another 1 mile pickup along south temple and then a half a mile last effort at mile 19.

5:59, 6:01, 5:54, 5:56, 5:37

5:58

3:00

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 20.00
Comments
From Hille on Sat, Jul 12, 2014 at 22:58:59 from 24.10.218.179

Solid workout today. No mention of the most exciting part of the run today - the scuffle with the cyclist?

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
19.150.000.000.0019.15

It is warm out there ladies and gentleman!

I have been wanting to run from our house to my mother-in-law's on a Sunday afternoon for a while now to test back to back long runs. I was just waiting for a Sunday we were planning on dinner there.

I left at 1:49 in the heat of the day with a small race pack filled with ice water. After yesterday's run, I had no pace goal. I didn't look at my watch and turned off auto lap. I had a couple low points and almost pulled the plug with about 3 miles left.

I want to just sit and watch a movie now.

80 miles in the last 7 days.

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 19.15
Comments
From Scott on Sun, Jul 13, 2014 at 19:54:41 from 174.23.210.199

Wow! You are straight crazy running in the heat for that long. Hope you were smarter than me and put on some sunscreen. 80 miles is a serious week! Good work!

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Jul 14, 2014 at 08:03:37 from 50.203.76.218

No sunscreen, but I wore a hat and had a shirt and my pack on. I think I made it out without getting burned. It felt like I was in a furnace a few times.

From Hille on Mon, Jul 14, 2014 at 19:19:03 from 24.10.218.179

I thought that you were taking it easy this week. This is definitely not a start to an easy week. Solid run though, especially with our run the day before. My legs still feel it today.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Jul 14, 2014 at 20:13:44 from 50.168.220.218

I am taking it easy this week John. Yesterday was an anomaly. Going to go pretty easy the rest of the week with maybe one day of a couple fast miles. My legs are definitely feeling it.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy on the parkway with Josh. Was tight in my right soleus and my hips for a few miles.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Josh E on Mon, Jul 14, 2014 at 15:28:11 from 63.226.66.73

Among other issues. Nice suffer fest yesterday.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

AM

Stretching and some PT at home. Needed a good night's sleep and finally got one. Hoping to make it to a hot tub tonight for a good massage of the legs and then back to running tomorrow. Goal is to get the legs feeling pretty good by next Thursday for DesNews.

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 with Josh on the avenues loop. Did 8 strides in the last 3 miles. Fun to have some faster turnover. Josh had some compression wear on and it reminded me to put mine on today for work to see if it can help with my lingering soreness, mostly in my right calf. So, I currently have full length compression tights AND compression socks on. Hope the a/c runs all day at the office!

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.003.001.000.008.00

Last workout before DesNews. Planned on doing a 4 mile tempo at roughly 6:30 and if I felt decent I would push the last mile to get it closer to 6:00. My legs have felt pretty sore lately and I have not run much at the 6:30 goal marathon pace so I didn't know how it was going to feel. Felt alright.

6:25, 6:24, 6:20, 5:56

I am a little nervous about DesNews and don't know how my leg will hold up on the several slower sections. Only easy miles for the next week and then going to give my all.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Thu, Jul 17, 2014 at 09:31:16 from 98.202.193.89

Those are great splits. Nice work! Now you can just relax until next Thursday! Don't psych yourself out about Des News...you've put in the training. Trust yourself! You'll do great!

You know a tattoo guy huh?

From Josh E on Thu, Jul 17, 2014 at 09:31:24 from 205.235.104.4

Nice run James. I am certain you can run these paces during the half on the flatter sections. Turn those nerves into hunger and excitement while visualizing the result.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Jul 18, 2014 at 08:56:25 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jen and Josh. Going to lay it all out there next Thursday and see what happens.

Regarding the tattoo guy, perhaps...

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy on the parkway with Josh.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From AngieB on Sat, Jul 19, 2014 at 09:33:23 from 174.251.18.51

You still going for sub 1:20 at des news? I am signed up for it and shooting for it we will see how i feel. I will look for you at the start you do the same.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Jul 19, 2014 at 10:44:18 from 50.168.220.218

Angie, I am shooting for it. What is your strategy? We are planning on 5:55ish in the canyon and then hold on!

From AngieB on Sun, Jul 20, 2014 at 16:53:18 from 174.239.66.36

That's about what I did last year and really felt it at mile 8. I'm not sure where I'm at conditioning wise really. I just want to feel comfortably fast in the canyon and really work it out of the canyon. I will try and hang w you.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Easy on the parkway in the heat. Started just after 9 and it was warm. There was a slight breeze on the way back that made it more tolerable. Now, back to the heat to mow the lawn.

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Sat, Jul 19, 2014 at 10:50:07 from 98.202.193.89

I'm going to mow my yard too! (high five)

From james (runmehappy) on Sun, Jul 20, 2014 at 14:07:56 from 50.168.220.218

Jen, just saw your comment. Good on ya for getting after the lawn! I was cooked after.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Easy on the parkway with Josh. It's officially race week and I am surprised that we are already nearing the end of July. 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.000.500.500.003.00

trying to stay calm

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 3.00
Comments
From Jake K on Tue, Jul 22, 2014 at 15:45:18 from 199.190.170.29

Good luck on Thursday. Relax for another day and then let it rip.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 08:14:21 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake. I appreciate it. Going to give it everything I got.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.000.000.000.002.00

DesNews Half tomorrow. I have had my sights set on a sub-1:20 half marathon and that is the "A" goal for tomorrow. It is a reach goal and I like that it scares me a little bit. PR is a 1:23.42 so it would be a big leap for me on a less aided, yet still aided course. "C" goal would be to get a PR and the "B" goal lies somewhere around 1:21.

Good luck to all those racing tomorrow.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 2.00
Comments
From Fritz on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 10:02:33 from 65.116.116.6

good luck tomorrow. Looks like you are ready for that "A" goal plus it's a super quick course.

From Josh E on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 10:19:43 from 205.235.104.4

You've got this.

From Hille on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 11:31:24 from 24.10.218.179

You are ready for this, I will just hope to keep up with you.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 11:58:01 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Fritz, Josh, and John.

John, we both are ready and if we stick together we will be sprinting across the finish with a clock reading 1:19.xx

From CollinAnderson on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 15:16:55 from 155.98.15.26

Good luck tomorrow. This course should be slightly faster than Timp already (slightly more drop, slightly lower altitude, less roll, assuming the Timp profile is accurate), so I'd think you could've already run 1:22:50-1:23:00 here last year instead of 1:23:42 with a similar performance. Taking off 3 minutes after a full year of training seems doable. Go after it!

From Rob Murphy on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 15:36:01 from 24.10.247.181

I think you'll do it James - or maybe just miss by a second or two. :-)

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jul 23, 2014 at 20:15:38 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Collin and Rob. I appreciate it. Going to give it all I got.

Race: DesNews Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) 01:21:54, Place overall: 21, Place in age division: 4
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2.005.108.000.0015.10

1:21.54 - B performance with A effort. I was really hoping for sub-1:20, but feel good about my effort considering the conditions. I am happy with the PR too. 

John picked me up from Liberty Park at about 4:25 and we headed up to the stadium to catch our bus. John mentioned that his back was already sweating on the bus ride up. It was going to be a warm one, but we knew that going in. After resting for a bit, John and I did about a mile or so warmup up the canyon. The wind was blowing pretty hard in our faces as we were heading up. We stopped to turn around and chatted about how the headwind could be pretty strong and if so we would have to adjust our goal. 

We met up with Jeff and Angie at the start who were also shooting for sub-1:20. Angie said she was going to try and conserve a little energy and Jeff was hoping for sub-6:00s in the canyon like John and I. We were off and the first 2 miles felt easy. 5:49 and 5:58. During mile 3 we had some gusts of wind and every right turn they seemed to get stronger for the next several miles. John, Jeff, and I didn't say anything to eachother, but I think we all had the same thought simultaneously that we needed to maintain effort, but not try and fight the wind. This resulted in slower miles than we had hoped, but it was the smart decision, I think. 6:00, 6:07, 6:17 (that one was hard to see this early), 6:12.

We kept plugging away together until we made it out of the canyon. At this point I was showing a 6:06 average. I still had hopes for something close to 1:20, but knew it would be tough. At the aid station near the zoo, Jeff pulled away and John fell back a bit. I was happy to see mile 7 come in at 6:05. I had planned on slowing for mile 8 across Foothill and then hoped to drop back down when it banked left by the stadium. I was tiring at this point, but it was not horrible. 6:20. Ok, that is tolerable, now just one more slower mile across 13th and then I can pick it back up down South Temple. 6:15

I hit South Temple and the legs didn't come back as planned. For a bit, I entered survival mode. I could still see Jeff up ahead and it seemed like I was gaining on him just a bit. I knew I could keep him in sight and just keep plugging away. The two miles comprising mostly South Temple came in at 6:27 and 6:35. Made the turn on 200 East and saw that Jeff was a little closer. I also had a kid in a bright yellow singlet only about 5 seconds up. I committed to maintaining that gap and trying to close it near the end. 6:21. As I looked up to the final aid station on 200 East I saw Jeff walk through it. I passed the kid in yellow and then caught up to Jeff after making the final turn onto 900 South. 6:43. We ran together for about 100 feet and then a younger kid passed us and Jeff told me to chase him down. I honestly thought I didn't have it in me. I hesitated for a few seconds and then went for it. I eased onto the effort and he was still 15 ft. up when I hit 500 East. I started my kick and passed him right before the finish. 0:41

So, all in all I am happy. I don't want to blame the wind for anything. It is just part of racing. It really was a strong headwind at times and I think most experienced it. I am stoked with an almost 2 min PR on what I believe to be a tougher course than Timp. Big thanks to Josh for running with me often and helping me push myself. It is paying off. Now time to focus my training on St. George where I have a goal of sub-2:50.

Congrats to all those that raced today! It was fun to see Fritz, Josh, and others finish the full before I had to bail to work.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 15.10
Comments
From Jenruns on Thu, Jul 24, 2014 at 10:45:58 from 98.202.193.89

Nice job on the PR James! I think you ran a smart race considering the conditions. It was hot and windy for sure! I think a sub 2:50 is definitely in your future :)

From Rob Murphy on Thu, Jul 24, 2014 at 10:50:28 from 24.10.247.181

That's a great race under really tough conditions. Nice job James!

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Jul 24, 2014 at 11:47:03 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jen. I appreciate that. I hope your abilities to see the future prove sound!

Thanks Rob. I think I saw you from a distance after I finished, but couldn't muster the strength to rise from my chair of water bottles. By the time I was sufficiently cooled off, I couldn't find you.

From Rob Murphy on Thu, Jul 24, 2014 at 11:49:00 from 24.10.247.181

I was fresh as a daisy having only run the 10k. I recommend that.

From Josh E on Thu, Jul 24, 2014 at 14:22:19 from 75.162.237.231

Nice work James. I agree that this was closer to a 1:20 effort. Are you planning any other races prior to sgm?

From Jeff L on Thu, Jul 24, 2014 at 16:25:40 from 74.81.242.63

Great to meet and run with you and John today. Those early miles when we were all together were the funnest miles of the race for me. I think you are right on track to run well at SGM.

From AngieB on Thu, Jul 24, 2014 at 19:57:12 from 174.239.108.127

Nice meeting you James. Wish I stayed up w you a bit longer. I will see you at st George and we will shoot for that sub 2:50. I'm still on a mission for sub 1:20 though. I think we need to choose another race to do it at.

From Hille on Fri, Jul 25, 2014 at 11:26:32 from 67.128.146.116

That was an impressive run and you finished strong even with the elements.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Jul 25, 2014 at 15:28:43 from 50.203.76.218

Josh - I likely am not planning any more races unless there is an early shorter race I can get in on. I start next week teaching every Saturday at the U at 9am. So, I will likely still just get my longer runs in starting early.

Jeff - it was great to meet and run with you too. I look forward to St. George with you.

Angie - We will get the sub-1:20 soon enough. Yesterday was a great effort against difficult conditions.

Hille - Thanks for pushing me in the canyon. There were times I wanted to back off even more. We will dominate St. George wish some good training over the next 2 months.

From allie on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 11:32:05 from 161.38.221.168

nice race, james. i like the strong kick at the end to finish it out.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy with Josh and Dan on the parkway. It was good to run with Dan. I have not hung out with him in years. We used to work together before law school. He is training for the Big Cottonwood Marathon. 

My right calf is still pretty sore from last Thursday's race. I don't really know what to do about it, but just give it time I guess. I massaged it after the run today and it is aching even worse now as I sit at work. Going to take the majority of this week easy with maybe a moderate run on Thursday, but no track workout. 

Hiked up to Lake Catherine (some spell it with a "K") on Saturday and that seemed to loosen up the legs a bit. I want to feel back at 100% before I do any intense workouts in preparation for St. George.

Also, I thought I would see if anyone is interested in coming on Saturday to runmehappy's summer event. We are hosting an outdoor dance party! Below is a flyer and check out runmehappy.com/news and the Facebook page for more information.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From AngieB on Mon, Jul 28, 2014 at 10:45:05 from 199.190.170.30

Take care of that calf. I think I want to still try another crack at sub 1:20 I think there were too many odds against everyone thurs for amazing times. Unless you are Lindsey and Fritz of course. Whats your plans from here until St George? Are you going to race before then?

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Jul 29, 2014 at 03:38:54 from 50.203.76.218

Angie, I likely won't race again before St. George. I start teaching at the U on Saturdays from 9 to 1 this coming Saturday and the class runs through September. Let me know though if you find a race that you want to try your hand at sub-1:20. There are some canyon ones that I know we could do, but I want it to be less aided than a bomb down big or little cottonwood etc.

From AngieB on Wed, Jul 30, 2014 at 10:35:07 from 159.212.71.199

James I have been kicking around the idea of running Hobblecreek. I have ran both and would say it is similar to Des News. I am still kicking it around though because I dont want to take too much time off of training for st george in tapering for it and recovering for it. Whats your thoughts on Hobblecreek?

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Jul 30, 2014 at 11:43:51 from 50.203.76.218

I have thought about Hobblecreek. I would say that it is faster than DesNews from looking at the profile and from talking to those that have run it. I would have considered it if I was not teaching, but I also don't want to have any more downtime before St. George. If I were to run that, I would probably run the first 8-10 miles at marathon pace (6:30) and then drop the pace until the end. That way you wouldn't end up as sore and your recovery time would be minimal. It would be a good primer for St. George.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Slept right through my alarm. Didn't hit snooze or anything. Just simply slept a full hour right through it. 

Warmed up the legs in a hot bath and then did some stretching and a little massage to my calf. Might try and get a few miles in tonight or I might just take the day off. I am still feeling the effects of last week so I am not too concerned about resting a little more than usual. 

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Aves loop with Josh. Legs felt good this morning. My shirt was soaked by the end, but the temperature felt nice. Still going to take the rest of the week rather easy, maybe a moderate paced run tomorrow, and get back to some workouts next week.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.005.000.000.0012.00

Thursdays are officially my moderate run or tempo run days from now until St. George.

Was planning on 12 miles with 2 mile up and 2 down and 8 at a moderate pace somewhere near 7:05. After the first mile I felt good so I just decided to make it a progression down and see if anything started to hurt more than normal. Everything felt fine so I just went with it. I feel good about this workout. I almost wish there was a field for "Moderate Pace Miles." For anyone who cares, I am considering roughly 6:30-6:50 as marathon pace and 6:50-7:10 moderate pace. Obviously that is mostly just for my own reference. 

7:09, 6:55, 6:54, 6:46, 6:36, 6:29, 6:28, 6:19

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 08:46:25 from 98.202.128.218

A lot of good comes from these sort of un-forced runs, regardless of how you label them. Nice job.

From Scott on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 09:04:39 from 67.2.157.191

I was feeling pretty good about my workout until I saw yours. Nice work!

From Hille on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 13:43:05 from 24.10.218.179

Good workout. You are looking strong and may be leaving me behind early in St. George

From Josh E on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 13:50:52 from 205.235.104.4

So maybe that last mile is a T? Great way to finish a workout. If you get in these medium long runs on Thursdays each week and long runs on Saturdays, you are there.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Jul 31, 2014 at 14:24:39 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks guys.

Jake - I feel like these workouts have already made a difference over the last few months.

Scott - Your workout was solid.

Hille - We will dominate St. George together, in a non-holding hands as we cross the finish line kind of way.

Josh - Perhaps the last mile is a T, who knows. The second half was run at 6:05ish so that was T territory I reckon.

From AngieB on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 08:43:22 from 199.190.170.24

Nice progressive tempo!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 along the parkway with Josh. Decent temp and no bugs.

Tomorrow night is the STOMP out CANCER event. If it sounds like fun, please come. If nothing else, it is fun to just hang out on the lawn and chat while listening to some music. Also, some have asked about donating if they can't attend. One can always donate securely on runmehappy.com. Thanks!

Here is the link for more info about STOMP out CANCER.

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Josh E on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 11:14:09 from 63.226.66.73

Congrats on becoming quantified.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 11:15:41 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks! I feel like I have graduated...from something...to somewhere.

From Hille on Fri, Aug 01, 2014 at 12:03:14 from 67.128.146.20

Wow, certified. You are big time now, I may be too lowly to run with anymore. If only I were as cool as you.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.001.000.000.0019.00

Mostly easy miles. Averaged in the mid 7:20s.

Planned to meet my friend Dan at the mouth of Big Cottonwood at 5:45 and run 15 with him. He is training for the Big Cottonwood Canyon Marathon and I told him I would join him and pace some miles.

I got to the mouth early so I could log a few before he showed up. Ran 3.5 along Wasatch solo. We then ran 7 down the canyon and out to 45th along Wasatch and back to the mouth. I dropped mile 17.5-18.5 down into the 6:30s and it felt OK.

Now I am at the U teaching the first class of the semester and the students are taking a diagnostic LSAT. Glad I am not in their shoes.

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 19.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 easy/moderate on the parkway solo this morning. Legs never really felt snappy. Today is mine and Whit's 8th anniversary so it seemed fitting to run 8 miles. Seems pretty crazy how fast time seems to progressively fly by.

We had a good event on Saturday. Josh and Scott and their families came. We ended up raising a couple hundred bucks and everyone had a great time. 

 

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Scott on Mon, Aug 04, 2014 at 10:54:29 from 74.95.55.77

You get rained on?

I woke up to log some miles and it was a monsoon outside at our place so I went back to bed. I like running in the rain, but I do not like starting to run when it is raining. weird?

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Aug 05, 2014 at 08:26:46 from 50.203.76.218

No rain for me. I understand the desire to not start in the rain. I feel the same. I like a nice sprinkle, but never want to start when it is already raining. Next time just run in place for about 45 minutes. I hear that is the equivalent of about 6 miles.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.400.003.100.008.50

Met Brayden and Scott for a good workout. 
12x400 at West High track this morning. 200 active recovery with 400 and a sip of water in between splits 6 and 7. I did this same workout on June 17th and my splits were...
88, 90, 88, 88, 89, 87, 88, 86, 86, 86, 80, 76 and a 32 for 200 to hit 5k.

Today, I wanted to go slightly faster and my splits were...
87, 86, 86, 85, 85, 85, 85, 84, 85, 84, 79, 73 and a 32 for 200 to hit 5k.

I think next week I am going to head to some hills for my workout instead of the track. A little hill work can't hurt for my St. George prep.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 8.50
Comments
From Josh E on Tue, Aug 05, 2014 at 15:24:06 from 205.235.104.4

Nice work. Glad you had some company.

From CollinAnderson on Fri, Aug 08, 2014 at 22:25:18 from 172.56.38.109

Boy does that sound not so fun. Haha. Keep it up though, this will really help you out in the long run.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

Avenues loop with Josh.

Zero calf pain.

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.008.000.000.0011.00

2 up, 1 down, and 8 at marathon pace in between.

Goal was to run 6-8 in the 6:30s for the tempo. Met John at the parkway and did the 2 mile warmup. John's calf started tightening up just after a mile into the tempo so he backed off and I continued on solo. I am pleased with the workout and feel really good about where my training is right now for St. George. Averaged 6:29 for the 8 mile tempo on flat ground the entire way, aside from the 7 feet of elevation gain and loss! Splits were...

6:39, 6:31, 6:31, 6:27, 6:30, 6:28, 6:27, 6:23

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 11.00
Comments
From Scott on Thu, Aug 07, 2014 at 08:34:04 from 97.126.247.193

Killer workout!

From Jenruns on Thu, Aug 07, 2014 at 08:55:03 from 98.202.193.89

Strong tempo James. 8 miles is a long tempo too. You are right on track for a great marathon!

From Jake K on Thu, Aug 07, 2014 at 08:56:24 from 199.190.170.24

You might have averaged 6:28.85 without those hills!

Nice job - solid workout.

From Josh E on Thu, Aug 07, 2014 at 10:13:01 from 205.235.104.4

I was doing about 6:10 on flat last year leading up to St. George and averaged 5:59. And you are successfully speeding up during the course of the tempo so mid 6:20s may be closer to your flat pace. By extension, you could be looking at sub 6:20 pace if you can get the endurance part down.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Aug 07, 2014 at 16:02:59 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks guys and gal!

Scott - I don't know if I was the killer or the victim.

Jen - 8 is my longest so far this cycle. Hope to get in a couple 10 mile tempos before race day.

Jake - I should have pushed a little harder for that extra 0:00.15!

Josh - That is interesting to read. I am going to have to see your splits again from St. George. What was your average for each of the halves?

From Josh E on Thu, Aug 07, 2014 at 16:26:01 from 63.226.66.73

6:08/5:50

From ACorn on Fri, Aug 08, 2014 at 21:47:55 from 75.169.62.37

That's a very good tempo! Well done.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Easy and not too breezy along the parkway. 

Went to bed last night at 8:40 and it was glorious.

 

Annivana Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
20.000.000.000.0020.00

20, 18 with Brayden. More later. Not more miles, but more of a description. 

Average pace - 7:28. Elevation gain of 857.

Met Brayden at his house and ran a big loop. West on Casto Ln. South on Holladay Blvd. Trail up to the mouth of Big Cottonwood. North along Wasatch to 33rd South. West down 33rd and North by REI. Down past Tanner Park. South on 23rd East. East up to Wander Ln. just after Olympus High and south on Wander basically back to Brayden's. 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 20.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy on the parkway. 

Had a running first for me today - 2 humans (or what appeared to be humans) passed me from behind on bicycles. The human in the back looked over his shoulder as he passed, waved, and audibly spoke the words "good morning." 

 

Annivana Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.500.002.750.008.25

Hill repeats up the road out of Memory Grove with Brayden and Scott.

After a 2 mile warmup we did repeats starting from the drinking fountain by the bridge. 1x30 seconds, 1x60 seconds, 6x90 seconds. The 90 second repeats were a quarter mile or just over. 

After the last repeat we did our cool down to the top of the road and turned around for a fast mile down in 5:09 and then an easy mile back to the track at West High. I was hoping to crack 5:00 on the fast mile, but am more than satisfied with the result on relatively tired legs.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 8.25
Comments
From ACorn on Wed, Aug 13, 2014 at 11:37:40 from 75.169.62.37

5:09 down the grove is blazing, especially after some hard hill repeats.

From Jenruns on Wed, Aug 13, 2014 at 14:34:53 from 98.202.193.89

I agree with ACorn, that is fast! Nice job!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 with Josh on the avenues loop. We might have had 1 or so at marathon pace, but I didn't have my watch on me. I felt pretty sluggish until about mile 5 and then things seemed to loosen up a bit. 

Don't know yet what my plan is for a tempo and long run this week. Perhaps moderate tomorrow and then try and sneak in some faster miles during my longer run Saturday. 

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.006.000.000.0010.00

3-2-1 at 6:31 on the treadmill. Warmup of 2 and cool down of 1.25 with .5 and .25 in the betweeners.

This was a super difficult workout. It was much more difficult than my 8 mile tempo last week. Everything about it seemed miserable, except for finishing. Here are 2 of what I consider to be contributing factors to the suckfest that it was.
1 - My treadmill is in my garage and there is no fan. It was hot! good heat training I guess. By the end, I might as well have jumped into a pool.
2 - I always feel like my treadmill is actually faster than what it displays. 6:31 felt more like 6:15 today. My breathing seemed a little labored within the first mile of the tempo and I felt like I was having to push considerably harder than 6:30 on the road. 

So, I am happy that I stuck it out because I wanted to quit many times. Though it was fewer miles at marathon pace this week, I still feel like it was a good workout.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Thu, Aug 14, 2014 at 09:39:22 from 98.202.193.89

Good job hanging on during a hard workout. I HATE the dreadmill (that's what I call it). You can deposit this workout in the "mentally hard" workout category. You can pull from this later when you need it :)

From ACorn on Thu, Aug 14, 2014 at 23:15:52 from 75.169.62.37

Way to hang tough! Maybe your treadmill is tougher than the average, running in the heat without circulating air never helps.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Aug 15, 2014 at 08:48:13 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jen and Adam. I will think of the "dreadmill" when my legs start hurting and I want to give up at St. George at about mile 22ish. Adam, I remembered that your gym doesn't have fans either. It makes it brutally hot.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 along the parkway. 2 of the miles were moderately paced. I had planned on just sticking to pretty slow and easy miles but ended up running 2 miles with a couple guys that were doing a tempo run right at about the 7:00 mark.

Interestingly, I saw these same two guys 3 times this week. Tuesday they were at West running on the track, Wednesday Josh and I saw them in Memory Grove, and today they were running the parkway. They are both shooting for sub-3:05 at St. George. It was nice to finally actually meet them.

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
18.002.000.000.0020.00

20 miles through Holladay / Millcreek along about the same route as last week. Slightly faster average this week at 7:27.

Had a couple of ups and downs during the run. Overall, I didn't feel as good as last week, but surprisingly I was actually feeling better at the end. I remember last week feeling ready to be done and feeling relieved when it was over. Today, it was obviously nice to be done, but I could have continued on had I needed to and it would have been alright.

Ran and at marathon pace at mile 10 and again at mile 19. 19 was encouraging because it has a decent climb and I still had some speed left.

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 20.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 easy on the parkway with Josh. According to Josh, my watch was "all like buggin." Which, it was. Average pace right at about 7:30.

Josh and I talked this morning about my training cycle for St. George and if, and when, I should try to have a bit of a down week before ramping up just a bit before the taper. I think that might end up being this week. I have been wanting to take a look back at my build ups to my previous few marathons and see what my long runs (in this case roughly 18+) looked like. The following analysis is for my own good so I have it all in one place, but any thoughts or feedback is more than welcome.

Ogden 2013 - 3:10.xx
3/16-17.5
3/23-18
3/30-20
4/6-20
4/13-22
4/20-20.5
4/27-22
5/4-18

BCC 2013 - 2:59.02
7/27-17.7
8/3-17.26
8/22-20.65
8/30-18

Boston 2014 - 3:06.xx
2/22-18
3/1-18
3/8-18
3/15-20
3/22-20
3/29-20

St. George 2014 (currenty cycle) - sub-2:50 goal
5/24 - 20
5/31-17.5
6/7-18
6/24-20
6/21-19
6/27-22.2 (ragnar day 1)
6/28-16.27 (ragnar day 2)
7/5-20
7/12-20
8/2-19
8/9-20
8/16-20
8/23-???
8/30-???
9/6-???
9/13-???
9/20-???

So, I am going to take some time to think about these but obviously I have already put in more long runs this cycle than ever before. I am seeing the benefits already from this, but the first thing to note is that BCC 2013 is my PR and I ran the fewest long runs before it. 

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Josh E on Mon, Aug 18, 2014 at 09:40:51 from 205.235.104.4

I am willing to wager my homestead that it's a good thing. You will feel much better in the last 10k and the first 20, run correctly, will be subjectively easy.

I do think a mental break for the next week or two will serve you well. One thing we didn't discuss is that your total mileage isn't that high. You have been hitting all your workouts and I don't think you are that worn down.

It's hard for everyone to really know when they are peaking or even going over the edge but I think the signs are either you are feeling really good or really bad. If it's just flowing, let it flow.

From Hille on Mon, Aug 18, 2014 at 10:01:53 from 104.34.11.127

Interesting, so what are your thoughts for the rest of the cycle? I have also done more long runs this cycle then before. I have done nine runs over 17 miles with the majority of them being 20 miles long.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Aug 18, 2014 at 12:47:14 from 50.203.76.218

Josh - When you say "total mileage" do you mean this year or weekly? I feel pretty good about 60+ weeks.

John - I don't know my exact plan yet for the rest of this cycle. Perhaps 16-18 this weekend and then a couple more 20s with one at 22? I want to do one 20 miler where I average 7:10 or under.

From Hille on Mon, Aug 18, 2014 at 12:53:02 from 104.34.11.127

I am hoping for something similar, but will see how I hold up.

From Josh E on Mon, Aug 18, 2014 at 13:17:57 from 205.235.104.4

Everyone is different but you were doing higher mileage earlier last year and it didn't seem to wear you down much. So I assume you could be running in the 70s or even 80s. You can, however, hit your goal with your current mileage.

I was just thinking of how I used to feel like I could get more stuff in, workouts and faster-paced easy runs, when I was averaging 60s in a build up compared to someone in the 80s-100s who is likely also running closer to their full potential(wheras you still have much faster times ahead).

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Aug 18, 2014 at 14:02:20 from 50.203.76.218

I definitely was logging more miles going into Ogden in 2013. I had back to back 90 mile weeks without any 2-a-days. I only did a 2 week taper for that race and think that had a negative effect. I would like to push to 70 miles for a couple weeks here soon, but don't know what to do exactly. I don't want it to wear me out too much and have it be a negative. I don't think that would be the case, but it is a factor I consider.

From AngieB on Thu, Aug 21, 2014 at 14:03:19 from 174.251.18.67

Hey James I'm feeling the same way you are and trying to figure it all out as well. The last 3 weeks I've hit 67,70.7, 71 my plan was to go lighter mileage this week but I am doing my first 20 miler sat so that will get me alot of mileage this week. I've ran alot of 16-18 milers but no 20's. I think I am just going to take this week a bit easier w the 20 then do the same nxt week then the first week in sept my last real hard week then start to wind down.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 08:32:23 from 50.203.76.218

Sounds like a pretty good plan Angie. What is your goal for St. George? I know you had mentioned 2:50. Are you still shooting for that?

From AngieB on Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 12:52:01 from 67.128.146.68

Ya I'm shooting for a PR mainly but 2:49 would be sweet not sure if I can do that though. I've been training with Paul Pilkington since June. I don't know if you know him but he's really smart in marathon training. It's alot diff training than I've done for my last 2 marathons so we will see.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.342.660.000.009.00

Hill repeats up Memory Grove hill. 6 x 3 minutes. Goal was to be somewhere around a 7:05 pace, but ended up pushing it harder. Progressed down with each repeat from a 7:06 to the last one at 6:21. Just focused on effort and time and did not look at distance. After uploading the data the repeats ranged from .43 to .48.

Felt good and built more confidence for St. George. 

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Josh E on Thu, Aug 21, 2014 at 09:26:13 from 205.235.104.4

I think you will do well on the hills. The last thing I would consider mixing in is some sort of mini-simulation of St. George on a long run where you do a long hill or a few longer hills 1/3 of the way through.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Aug 21, 2014 at 13:32:14 from 50.203.76.218

That is a good idea Josh. I am trying to think of where a good route would be for that.

From Hille on Thu, Aug 21, 2014 at 17:49:11 from 104.34.11.127

Start of the DesNews marathon is good for that. The last couple of years I have done it preparing for St. George. Start up big mountain and then up little mountain and down emigration. I plan on doing it again this year.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 08:30:14 from 50.203.76.218

John, when do you plan on doing that run? I wouldn't mind doing it in the next couple of weeks. Perhaps next weekend even? Or, maybe the week after is better for your prior ailments.

From Hille on Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 09:58:17 from 104.34.11.127

I am on call next Saturday, so that is probably not a good day for me. I was thinking sept. 6 for that run if it works for you.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Spent the night up the canyon at the cabin and slept horribly. I seemed to wake about every hour or so. When my alarm went off at 4:45 to go an meet Josh, I decided it was necessary to try and sleep for 2 more hours instead of run. 

Had a good hot tub and stretching session last night though. I spoke with a massage therapist who showed me some trigger points for my calves. I put those right in the path of a strong jet and it was a slightly painful bliss.

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.502.000.000.0012.50

Moderate pace progression tempo run through Holladay with Scott and Brayden.

I wanted to get a moderate run this week of 8-10 averaging close to 7:00. Brayden and Scott planned to do a 10 mile tempo at 7:03 so I figured that would be perfect. The route had some rollers and was more uphill at the beginning and then at mile 9. Averaged 6:55 for the 10.

Exactly what I was looking for. Will post splits when I get home from work. 

7:03, 7:11 6:53, 6:57, 6:56, 6:51, 6:51, 6:42, 7:03, 6:24

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 12.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 easy along the parkway with Josh for his birthday. 

Good luck to all those racing tomorrow. I look forward to reading the reports.

 

Annivana Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.303.000.000.0016.30

Just over 16 on the same loop as the last two Saturdays. Felt good today to wrap up my "down" week. Will post splits and a comparison to the last two weeks later. Averaged 7:13 today, 7:27 last week, and 7:29 the week before. More later

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 16.30
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 easy solo on the parkway. I had a scheduled "down" week last week and now today is the start of a 3 week buildup before I start to taper for St. George. I am excited. And, as always...a little nervous.

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Hille on Mon, Aug 25, 2014 at 11:55:58 from 70.196.196.26

What mileage are you planning the next 3 weeks?

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Aug 25, 2014 at 11:58:58 from 50.203.76.218

Funny you ask John. I was in the process of drafting an email to you about this very thing.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.000.000.000.009.00

9 miles this morning with Scott. Met at the West High track and headed to Memory Grove for some hills. Did 10x60 seconds at a decent effort. Nothing too crazy. Headed back to the track and did 2x400 at marathon pace just for kicks in the middle of our "cool down."

I think I have nailed down my schedule for the rest of this cycle for St. George. I plan on increasing several miles each week to peak at 70. I know that is not crazy and is a little weak to some on here, but I feel that is pretty solid for me. I also have a few more track/hill workouts to do and am planning a simulation on 9/6 with 10 at marathon pace in the middle. I am mostly happy to report that I am continuing to enjoy this training cycle and it has been my most consistent and strong showing yet.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 9.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Wed, Aug 27, 2014 at 08:24:32 from 98.202.193.89

I think 70 is a good number to peak at. I peaked last year at 73 for SG. Everyone is different. I do better with less miles. Some people run 100+. I think you are being very smart with your training. You'll do great at SG!

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Aug 27, 2014 at 09:04:05 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jen. I feel like I have been smart and had a really good training cycle. Now just to finish it off and race strong in St. George.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 easy on the parkway. Felt really good out there today. Tried to hold back a bit so I have all I need in the tank for tomorrow's tempo.

Can we chalk this up to some of the best August Utah weather ever?

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.009.000.000.0012.00

Thursday Tempo - Goal was 9@6:30 (my goal marathon pace for St. George).

Hit the parkway (so, flat as a pancake) and warmed up 2. Started into the tempo and felt alright. It was temperate out and I knew it would take a couple miles to really get in the groove. The first mile came in a hair faster than I had planned, but I didn't think too much of it. Mile 3 made me a little nervous I was going too hard too early but it just felt nice right around the 6:22-6:25 mark so I went with it.

6:27, 6:28, 6:23, 6:22, 6:23, 6:22, 6:21, 6:16, 6:12 (6:22 avg)

6:39, 6:31, 6:31, 6:27, 6:30, 6:28, 6:27, 6:23 (6:30 avg)

3 weeks ago I did an 8 mile tempo with those ^^^ splits on the same route. Today felt easier, so that is good.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 12.00
Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Aug 28, 2014 at 08:44:46 from 199.190.170.31

It's nice when you get in the groove like that. Good work.

From Scott on Thu, Aug 28, 2014 at 09:41:25 from 74.95.55.77

Awesome! As I read your first paragraph I was starting to think that things fell apart. Way to get in a groove and stay there!

From Hille on Thu, Aug 28, 2014 at 10:11:31 from 67.128.146.116

Nice run, you are tearing it up.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Aug 29, 2014 at 09:35:35 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks gents! I think my body thrives off of the cooler temp.

From AngieB on Fri, Aug 29, 2014 at 10:20:57 from 199.190.170.29

That is a Great workout! I think you will for sure go sub 2:50 at St George.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 easy easy. 

Have a lingering demon in my right calf. Seems to resurface when I push the pace occasionally. Anyone know a good exorcist? 

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
20.000.000.000.0020.00

Woke at 4:45 to meet Scott so I could get the 20 in before having to head to the U to teach my class. Good thing I can take a nap after!

Did a similar Holladay/Millcreek loop to the last few weeks, but added on the north end which increased the total elevation gain and loss. Finished at a 7:25 average and feel good about that and how this week shaped up. 2 more weeks to build before the taper kicks in.

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 20.00
Comments
From Hille on Sat, Aug 30, 2014 at 10:21:46 from 67.128.146.20

Solid run and week

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.500.000.000.008.50

8.5 easy at the gym where we were staying in Midway. Awesome weather up there this weekend.

Annivana Miles: 8.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.300.004.000.009.30

Mile repeats at the West High track with Brayden and Scott. Goal was 4x1 mile at about the 6:00 pace or slightly faster if I felt up to it. Felt good on all of them and progressively dropped the pace. 

5:53, 5:51, 5:44, 5:37

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 9.30
Comments
From Jenruns on Tue, Sep 02, 2014 at 08:29:41 from 98.202.193.89

Ummm...yeah....you KILLED it! Nice workout! Those are great splits!

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Sep 03, 2014 at 11:29:06 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jen. It was a good morning. I still have not heard what your next race is. Let me know.

From Jenruns on Wed, Sep 03, 2014 at 12:08:24 from 98.202.193.89

I'm running The Chosen Half Marathon on Sept. 27. It's a charity race. I'm going to use it as a good tempo. I'm not going to race it hard.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10...

Annivana Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
9.005.000.000.0014.00

Goal for today was to run a moderate pace average for 14 miles so as to wear out the legs a little bit. We are running a simulation of St. George on Saturday and I wanted my legs to be a little fatigued going in. I think this run accomplished exactly what I wanted. I pushed the pace a little more than originally planned, but felt good and came in at a 7:04 average.

 

Annivana Miles: 14.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

Legs were a little non-responsive for a few miles. Loosened up though and I am excited for tomorrow's run. Should be a challenge and a confidence booster.

 

Annivana Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Fri, Sep 05, 2014 at 15:04:21 from 98.202.193.89

Good luck tomorrow!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
11.0011.000.000.0022.00

Perfect conditions for a St. George simulation run this morning.

Alarm went off at 4, ate a piece of toast with some peanut butter and jam, and drove to meet Scott and John at Liberty. Hopped in John's car and drove to the top of Big Mountain, picking Brayden up along the way.

Started running just after 5:30 and my goal was to run 5 at an easy to moderate effort and then roll into a 10 mile tempo of 6:30 average. The tempo would include 1 mile before Little Mountain, the climb up Little, and the descent down Emigration. So, I would have to work to average 6:30.

Warm up miles were - 6:58, 6:53, 7:01, 7:12, 7:26. A little fast, especially at the beginning, but the effort was right.

First mile of tempo approaching Little Mountain was 6:50. It had an uphill and I was easing into the faster turnover. I hoped to log close to a 7:30-7:45 up Little Mountain and was pleased when it came in at 7:16. I locked into a groove on the hill and felt pretty smooth. Mile 3 was essentially half up and half down and came in at 6:51.

I felt great in the canyon and decided to just continue the effort, knowing I got to stop the tempo at the zoo. The goal was about 6:15s to get the average down after the climb. Canyon splits were 6:13, 6:16, 6:07, 6:11, 6:07, 6:07, 6:02.

I am pleased with those. I got gradually faster as the canyon got less steep. Average for the 10 was 6:24.

Finished at a moderate pace with a little kick thrown in at 21 to finish the 22 with a 6:44 average. 6:56, 6:45, 6:43, 7:06, 7:15, 6:25, 7:33.

I am officially excited for St. George.

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 22.00
Comments
From Jake K on Sat, Sep 06, 2014 at 14:00:41 from 98.202.128.218

Nice run. You're coming into form perfectly.

From Hille on Sat, Sep 06, 2014 at 19:16:06 from 24.10.218.179

Great run, thanks for pulling me along

From Jenruns on Sun, Sep 07, 2014 at 16:15:59 from 98.202.193.89

Nice job James! I think you are going to run SG faster than you think. Taper time?

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 08:52:07 from 50.203.76.218

Jake - Thanks, I really appreciate that.

John - It was a good run and I think we will both benefit from this run at St. George.

Jen - Thanks. I am excited for the race. I am planning on a pretty high mileage week this week and then will start my taper.

From Jake K on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 09:04:23 from 199.190.170.28

That's a good move. Keep the miles up for another week... you want to be fresh as you get closer to STG, but don't peak too early.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 - Might take a few days to get my legs working properly again after Saturday's simulation. I loosened up after a couple of miles, but now my legs are pretty sore again. I am planning on this week being my last before I start to taper for St. George. I was not planning on being as sore this morning though. 

 

Annivana Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Scott on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 11:14:24 from 74.95.55.77

My legs are pretty sore today as well. I got up to run and the pouring rain scared me back into bed. I am hopeful that I will be able to get out after work and try to loosen up the quads a bit. The Yasso's still on tomorrow?

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 11:16:05 from 50.203.76.218

Yeah, it is nice to have the treadmill when the rain is coming down. I am planning on Yassos next Tuesday. Had hills planned for tomorrow and then tempo on Thursday. What are you thinking for this week?

From Scott on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 11:30:48 from 74.95.55.77

Didn't have a great idea to begin with and now my legs are making me want to take it a bit easier. I will plan on the hills tomorrow for sure and likely a tempo on Thursday. Saturday I was planning on a long run again and possibly mixing in some quicker miles at the end of the run.

From Jake K on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 14:49:49 from 199.190.170.28

Part of the benefit from that simulation run is 1) beating up the legs a little then 2) recovering and adapting from that.

Treat the next couple days as if you did a race on Saturday to get the full benefit from it.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 15:03:53 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake. So, would you suggest running easy until Thursday and still attempting the 10 mile tempo on Thursday? If you remember, my last scheduled intense track workout is next Tuesday (10x800).

From Jake K on Mon, Sep 08, 2014 at 15:07:02 from 199.190.170.28

That would definitely be a smart approach. Just run mileage for a few days, and be ready for a good workout on Thursday. Trying to squeeze in too much at this point is a dangerous game.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 - lingering niggles, but that is to be expected I guess.

Heads up to mark your calendars if you are interested. On the 27th at 6:30pm we are going to host an outdoor house concert with a couple local singer/songwriters. Should be a great time!

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 along the parkway. Legs felt better (more snappy) this morning, but still have some lingering tightness in my left calf/soleus and my right quad and hip. Don't know yet if I should hold off on the tempo tomorrow or if I should go for it and then get feeling better during my taper that starts next week.

 

Annivana Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.0010.000.000.0014.00

Last long tempo before St. George. 2 mile warmup - 10 at pace - 2 cooldown.

I am going to chalk this up to one of my best runs...not because I felt great. It was actually the exact opposite. My legs were tired from mile 1 but I pushed on. For the first couple of miles, every time I looked at my watch I swear it read 6:35. I had to push to get it down. I considered just caving to a slower pace, knowing that Saturday's run was still in my legs, but then I decided it would be a perfect test of fast miles on tired legs. And, it was.

6:26, 6:27, 6:25, 6:24, 6:18, 6:17, 6:16, 6:13, 6:14, 6:06  --  6:18 avg.

Goal for St. George is sub 2:50. I need to average right about 6:30. I feel ready. One more long run on Saturday and then time to start the taper.

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 14.00
Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Sep 11, 2014 at 08:53:19 from 199.190.170.31

Nice job James. You're ready!

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Sep 11, 2014 at 16:58:16 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake. I am excited for sure. Just need to get my splits down so I don't go too fast or too slow.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 easy on the parkway. It was a brisk morning and it felt great. You could feel fall in the air.

 

Annivana Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
19.501.000.000.0020.50

Easy with Brayden and Scott. Felt pretty tired throughout. Legs were heavy. Cumulative fatigue from the last three weeks and the few months prior. Dropped the pace on mile 20 to a 6:23.

It is my last day teaching at the U this year. I look forward to more open Saturdays. I need a nap.

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 20.50
Comments
From Hille on Sat, Sep 13, 2014 at 10:49:37 from 24.10.218.179

Solid run and week. Sounds like a good time to taper.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.005.000.0011.50

Met Scott and Brayden at West High track and did 10x800. I guess this is the Yasso test before St. George. Goal was to be consistent at 2:50 for all 10 and leave some in the tank.  I think I accomplished that. Now, it is time to taper. 

2:50.1, 2:49.9, 2:50.0,  2:49.8, 2:50.0, 2:49.8, 2:49.9, 2;49.9, 2:49.7, 2:50.0

(Decided to add the tenths because it wouldn't be as fun to type, or read, 2:50 ten times)

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 11.50
Comments
From Jake K on Tue, Sep 16, 2014 at 08:15:29 from 199.190.170.22

That is remarkable consistency and pacing!

From AngieB on Tue, Sep 16, 2014 at 09:03:44 from 65.130.94.48

Your ready! Nice work! What are you thinking of running the first half in? I've been going back and forth on this cuz the last half is definately faster and I don't want to go out too fast. I was thinking 1:26-1:27ish then going for a negative split what are you thinking?

From Hille on Tue, Sep 16, 2014 at 09:21:16 from 67.128.146.20

Solid workout. Things are looking good for you.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Sep 16, 2014 at 11:23:12 from 50.168.220.218

Jake - I just got lucky I guess. I found my pace and it turned into cruise control. I had to work for some of them, but I was amazed how each split was so consistent.

Angie - I am feeling in a good spot. I don't know what my plan is for sure. I am likely going to target 1:25ish for the first half and then negative split.

John - It is going to be fun to race together.

From Jenruns on Tue, Sep 16, 2014 at 12:03:44 from 98.202.193.89

Wow...you are more consistent than me! Nice work! You are ready for SG! Enjoy your taper!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.150.000.000.006.15

Easy out and back on a straight road from the Offshore Marina in Lake Powell toward the lake and back. 

Annivana Miles: 6.15
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.150.000.000.006.15

6.15 - Climbed to the plateau and ran out and back on the north side. 

Annivana Miles: 6.15
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.150.000.000.008.15

8.15 - Climbed to the plateau and ran out and back on the south side.

Annivana Miles: 8.15
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.550.000.000.0012.55

Climbed to the plateau and circumnavigated it twice counter-clockwise. Was sick of trail running by this run.

Was mostly going off of time on my feet for these trail runs in Lake Powell this week. Had some slow miles with a lot of climb up and down.

 

Annivana Miles: 12.55
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

Worried.

I told myself I would be careful in Lake Powell and not do anything to jeopardize St. George. I stuck to that, but had a fluke fall on a ski on Saturday and bruised my ribs. My ski slipped out from under me in an odd way and I landed on my side. It really didn't seem like a big deal at all. However, my left elbow must have jammed into my side and it managed to bruise my ribs through my life jacket. 

This morning's 6 miles were painful. I couldn't get my breathing in a rhythm because I couldn't take a deep breath. Hoping 12ish days is enough to heal. Any suggestions on speeding up the healing process are welcome.

 

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Jake K on Mon, Sep 22, 2014 at 11:50:11 from 199.190.170.22

It should heal up in time - just be careful with what you do and don't try to force any workouts if it hurts. Trust your training.

I pulled a muscle in my side (probably rappelling) a few weeks ago... it was a little annoying when breathing hard and painful to the touch for about 10 days, and then it gradually went away to the point where I don't even notice it much now.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Sep 22, 2014 at 13:51:02 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake. I was going to just keep it easy this week and maybe do a couple of marathon paced miles on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday if I feel alright. I figure a hard workout could only do damage at this point.

From Jake K on Mon, Sep 22, 2014 at 13:55:07 from 199.190.170.22

Whatever fitness benefit you might get out of it - you'd lose that and more if you aggravate the ribs any further.

From Josh E on Mon, Sep 22, 2014 at 14:09:54 from 205.235.104.4

Like Jake said, I am guessing you are fine. Just keep the worrying to a minimum until then and stay confident and hungry.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 easy on the parkway. Felt a little better this morning. Chest is still in pain but I taped it this morning and that maybe helped a little. Ice and anti-inflamatory pills are routine. Going to apply some old IcyHot I found in a drawer. Hope the aging of the cream makes it a special healing agent.

 

Annivana Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Took the morning off. 

Thought it might make a difference.

I feel the same or worse than yesterday.

I feel better in the evening, almost like it works itself out a little during the day.

Then I feel like crap again in the morning. 

My boss just said, "You won't be running that marathon."

I replied, "I have put in too much work to back out now."

He replied, "There will always be other ones."

I don't like that attitude.

.

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Another day of rest. Feeling considerably better than yesterday. I didn't want to push anything this morning and risk taking 2 steps back after taking 1 step forward.

Hoping to get out for an easy run tomorrow and Saturday.

Maybe I will start selling essential oils after all of this.

 

Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Sep 25, 2014 at 10:09:39 from 159.212.71.17

Young Living and Altra use similar ethics when it comes to marketing - LIES! :-)

Glad you are feeling better. Keep your head up!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 easy on the parkway - Today, I am confident I will run St. George. I am happy to say that.

Running this morning was still a little rough but it was different than Monday or Tuesday. Before I left the house, I did the stair and jump test. I could go up and down the stairs and jump in place without any pain. Previously, the bouncing caused pain. This was great news for me, so I hit the road and really only had a light ache and pain when running. It would increase if I had to take a deep breath or if I were to cough or try to clear my throat. I averaged just under 7:30 and ran a half a mile at 7:00. The increase in speed didn't really cause more pain.

I suspect I will continue to heal and will hopefully not have any or very minimal pain by next Saturday.

 

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 5.00
Comments
From Scott on Fri, Sep 26, 2014 at 11:15:38 from 74.95.55.77

That is good to hear. 1 week away from putting your hard work to the test!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.003.000.000.0010.00

Met John and Scott at John's and did a 10 mile loop. With 3 at just under a 6:30 average. 

Ribs felt okay but not great. Still have a week to heal some more. Legs felt fine on the tempo 3 but lungs felt odd. Hurts to clear my throat or spit, cough...and I pray I don't sneeze during the marathon! 

It is going to be a great race next weekend. 

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Sun, Sep 28, 2014 at 15:03:59 from 98.202.193.89

I'm praying that your ribs are healed by Saturday! I bet you will be just fine. The dang taper is a sneaky one... Always playing mind games.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Sep 29, 2014 at 09:31:04 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jen. I really appreciate it. I wish this was not how the end of my training was going, but so it goes.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Resting up for the big dance. Ribs are fickle little things. Trying to stay positive. They hurt more this morning than they did on Friday and Saturday. Couldn't pass the stair and jumping tests this morning so I decided I shouldn't push my luck and run 5 eays miles and potentially injure the ribs more or delay any healing.

Amazing new record set in Berlin - 2:02.57!?!

Comments
From AngieB on Mon, Sep 29, 2014 at 09:55:47 from 199.249.238.14

I think you'll be good to go sat!! I woke up w a sore throat yesturday ugh:/ fighting it off to and rest days for me as well.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.001.000.000.004.00

4 miles - 1 at marathon pace. 

Update on ribs - it is what it is at this point. Running doesn't seem to aggravate them too much. They are just achy and the pain increases with a deep breath. I figure at this point I will take some ibuprofen before the race and endure the pain. If nothing else, hopefully the chest pain will distract me from the inevitable pain in my legs near the end of the race. That is my Pollyanna attitude!

[update 11:30am] I almost feel no pain in my ribs while just sitting here now. It is odd that it changes so much from day to day. I guess I am posting this mostly for my own benefit to look back on later and see when it was giving me trouble and when it wasn't.

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 4.00
Comments
From Hille on Tue, Sep 30, 2014 at 12:12:05 from 67.128.146.20

Hopefully it stays that way.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Sep 30, 2014 at 14:55:03 from 50.203.76.218

One can only hope John. It is an odd thing for sure. Hoping and Praying you don't leave me before Veyo.

From Hille on Tue, Sep 30, 2014 at 15:19:35 from 67.128.146.20

That definitely won't happen, maybe the other way around.

From Jenruns on Tue, Sep 30, 2014 at 16:14:34 from 98.202.193.89

Here are my thoughts: I think you'll have so much adrenaline pumping through your body that your ribs won't even be an issues. I think our bodies can push through more pain than we realize. Plus, you still have 3 full days to recover.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Sep 30, 2014 at 19:31:28 from 50.168.220.218

Jen - keep these thoughts coming. I love the positivity! I think you are right, we can endure more than we think and adrenaline is a powerful beast. 3 more days is a lot of time too. Thanks!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 easy on the parkway with a couple of short pickups.

Ribs / Chest Update - Feeling pretty good. Was slightly sore on the run but not bad. Was the best I have felt since the fall on the ski. St. George is going down under 2:50!

98% or 2% excited or scared...that's what makes it so intense!

 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 5.00
Comments
From Josh E on Wed, Oct 01, 2014 at 13:46:11 from 205.235.104.4

For me, I relax as much as possible while staying confident and ready in the days leading up to the race. I take everything I do very seriously and avoid miscalculations.

The race itself isn't stressful though. It's the reward for everything done up to that moment. When you are prepared, racing is a celebration of life, fitness and the determination it takes to get to that point. Enjoy it! It will be great!

From Jake K on Wed, Oct 01, 2014 at 14:43:23 from 159.212.71.77

+1 on Josh's advice.

Josh - send me a message with those exact words next week.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Oct 01, 2014 at 14:59:21 from 50.203.76.218

Can I quote those words Josh? Seriously, I am stoked to get to the starting line, and I am really not overly nervous. I am excited for the celebration of life, fitness, and the determination (I would add (and hard work)) it took to get me to this race!

Jake, you are going to have an incredible race next week!

From Jenruns on Fri, Oct 03, 2014 at 08:42:05 from 98.202.193.89

I'm super happy to hear that your ribs are feeling better. Have a great race tomorrow! Sub 2:50 is definitely going to happen!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
1.500.000.000.001.50

1.5 shake out before tomorrow's race. 

The goal from the beginning of this cycle has always been sub-2:50. It has been a very consistent and strong cycle for me, aside from the last two weeks dealing with my ribs. I am not letting that shake me though. I am the fastest I have ever been and I have trained hard to be here. I am excited to race!

Wise words from Josh - The race is the reward for everything done up to that moment. When you are prepared, racing is a celebration of life, fitness and the determination it takes to get to that point. Enjoy it! It will be great!

Good luck to all those racing.

 

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 1.50
Race: St. George Marathon (26.2 Miles) 02:54:14, Place overall: 87, Place in age division: 19
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.0026.200.000.0026.20

2:54.14 - not exactly what I had hoped for but happy with, and I need to celebrate, my almost 5 minute PR. 

Ribs did not bother me at all. Fought some cramping early in my calves that slowed me up. No excuse, I simply didn't run fast enough. I need to figure out my calf issues and then evaluate what to do next. 

[update] cramping and calf issues largely due to the rib injury and overcompensating because of it.

More later

As most have noted, the race started over 15 minutes late. John and I ran from the start side by side. There was a nice little tailwind, but it seemed a tad warmer than I would have liked. I had my splits on my wristband and it seemed like John was mostly letting me control the pace. I didn't see him look at his watch too often.

Miles 1-7 - This first section seemed easy, like it should. We just clipped along according to plan. We were within a few seconds of every one of our planned splits and the effort seemed good. By mile 3 I was starting to have some sweat on my brow. I started to think of Boston and knew that I needed to be good about getting water in, and on, me at each station. (6:40, 6:38, 6:22, 6:15, 6:21, 6:11, 6:09)

Miles 8-13 - Before I knew it, we were about to start climbing Veyo. We had planned to take this pretty easy to conserve as much energy as possible. I took my first gel at the mile 7 aid station. We just trudged along uphill and I didn't feel like we were exerting much effort. That mile came in at 7:11. The next several miles felt similar, we were close to our splits we wanted and the effort seemed about right. This is an interesting stretch of the race that a lot of people talked bad about beforehand. It was not horrible. We just maintained effort and I was still feeling good. My legs were tiring a little from the uphill and I was looking forward to some down. 9-13 were 7:01, 6:54, 7:04, 6:45, and 6:30.

Miles 14-20 - Mile 14 was mentally tough for me. I thought we would have been going more downhill by now. I guess I had not done enough of my own studing up because I was under the belief that the course turned downhill right at mile 13. That was not the case and it shook me a little. I was happy to finally turn down the canyon. The legs welcomed the change and John and I quickly dropped the pace again. 6:22, 6:14, 6:10, 6:14, 6:22. In the middle of mile 16, something odd happened. My left calf spasmed and I almost went down into the shoulder. John looked over at me and slightly joking said, "Are you alright man?" For the next several miles each of  my calves seemed a little odd, but nothing serious like that one spasm during 16. I started to not feel that great during mile 18. I mentioned it to John and he encouraged me to stick with him. I snapped out of it pretty quickly and we were clipping along. Mile 19 had what I considered the final climb. We slowed up and that came in at 6:47. We ran through 20 and John said, "Only a 10k left." 6:33.

Miles 21-26.2 - I was hurting at this point and my calves were firing at odd times. I kicked my legs up behind me here and there to try and loosen the quads as the elevation would change. When I did that, my calves would spasm. So, I just tried to stay calm and stick to the plan. After running a mile 21 at 6:12, things really went south for a minute and John pulled away. There was a little rise in 22 and I thought I was going to have to stop or my legs were going to cramp up bad. I committed to walking for 10 seconds to see if I could calm down. I counted to 5 twice and then started running again. 7:04. That seemed to help, but it was not enough. I could not get all the way back on track. Mile 23 was encouraging at 6:44, but it was still slower than I wanted. Then, it started to slip and I finished out at 6:55, 7:30, 7:28, 1:39 (7:25)

I have had some time now to think about the race. My first thought is that St. George is not as much of a downhill course as people say it is. It is a rolling course with some great downhill sections. The course was not my downfall though. I need to figure out why my calves seem to be a weak link. I had an awesome training cycle and I made some great improvements. The last 2 weeks were rough with my rib injury and that likely shook my confidence a bit, even if it was subconsiously. I am not complaining about the almost 5 minute PR. It is an accomplishment, yet short of expectations. Perhaps, there were sections we ran too fast? I don't really think so though. I will take this and build on it.

Big props to John, Brayden, and Scott for running great races and PRing. Thanks to them for training with me through the cycle. We all helped push one another. I owe Josh a lot. He pushed me early in May to commit to being faster and ran many miles with me a lot slower than he likely wanted. I look forward to one day hanging at his pace. Thanks to Jake and Fritz as well for letting me always pick their brains. We have a great community of runners here in Utah and I consider it a privilege to be a part of.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 26.20
Comments
From Fritz on Sat, Oct 04, 2014 at 16:48:45 from 174.239.108.137

Nice job James. A five minute PR is a big accomplishment, yet it sounds like there is more in the tank.

Not sure if you knew but you were the top finisher from Davis County which means you won $100 from the Murdock Car Dealership. They gave away $1600 to the county winners where they do business. Very generous of the old man.

From Jenruns on Sun, Oct 05, 2014 at 08:54:42 from 98.202.193.89

I totally get where you're coming from. That's how SG was for me last year. I had a major PR but missed the top 10 finish and it was a hard day for me. Yet, I was happy with my race in general. Marathon's are such an emotional race...the training is hard, the hours are long, it all comes down to one race. I'm sorry to hear about your calves. That must be frustrating. I think your time is fantastic and I'm super happy for you! I'm glad your ribs decided to be nice to you. Time to rest and reset for next year!

From SpencerSimpson on Sun, Oct 05, 2014 at 14:10:51 from 76.27.92.84

Proud of yA on the PR. You're a good runner James. You will continue to push and get better. Look forward to seeing you improve even more. MIH

From Scott on Sun, Oct 05, 2014 at 21:43:31 from 71.37.117.49

Great race! Thanks for all the pointers, planning, and training that helped get us ready for our PR's. Although it didn't seem like it, I was happy to see you and Hille waiting at the finish!

From AngieB on Mon, Oct 06, 2014 at 09:48:48 from 199.190.170.31

Despite not running the time you wanted you ran a excellent PR. These marathons are such a huge learning curve for us new timers that I am certain you are going to get that sub 2:50 its in there. I wanted to yell at you and say more to get you to come with me but I couldnt get any words out at that point sorry.

From Jeff L on Mon, Oct 06, 2014 at 14:47:42 from 74.81.242.63

Nice race, james. Glad that the ribs didn't bother you too much during the race.

From Hille on Tue, Oct 07, 2014 at 02:58:57 from 67.128.146.20

Great race man. It was fun to run with you. You really helped me during the training cycle leading up the marathon to push myself. You are only improving and have some good times ahead for you.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Oct 07, 2014 at 09:51:21 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks all. I finally added a recap of the race.

From Josh E on Tue, Oct 07, 2014 at 13:45:26 from 205.235.104.4

Nice job James. It sounds like you were ok aerobically throughout so your endurance was sufficient. You had a great training cycle and you were fearless with a bunch of big successful tempo runs so we know the speed is there. You have gotten better.

I think just a few of the little things will get you over the hump and you will naturally improve as you stay with it.

While I have zero idea, I am guessing your calves need a little extra attention with some type of regular maintenance. Sometimes tweaky muscles can be ironed out.

From allie on Tue, Oct 07, 2014 at 16:46:28 from 24.30.41.119

nice race, james. it's tough to fall short of your expectations (i've been there many times), but i like your thoughts on it all -- learn from it, build on it, and celebrate the smaller improvements, even if it's not everything you wanted from the race. that's the right attitude. keep moving forward and be confident that you'll reach your biggest goals. it will come together.

i hope you are recovering well this week.

From Matt Poulsen on Wed, Oct 08, 2014 at 22:08:11 from 50.168.224.197

Nice race! Great chatting with you.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Oct 09, 2014 at 11:01:04 from 50.203.76.218

Josh - I appreciate it. I still smile thinking of the tempos and what I accomplished. I am excited to venture on. I have a 90 minute session scheduled for Saturday. It is the beginning of my new plan for the calves.

Allie - Thank you. I am focusing on the bigger goals, like you said. Each race is a stepping stone and something to learn from.

Matt - It was great to chat with you for a bit. Hope you enjoy the "off season."

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

One solid week off. It is the most time I have taken completely off in a couple years I think. And, I needed it. St. George did quite the number on my legs. I had an almost 2 hour massage on Saturday from a super knowledgeable thereapist from whom I think I will get some regular maintenance as part of my winter plan. 

Plan right now is to enjoy the fall weather. I love running this time of year. I will spend the next little while recovering completely. It has been 3 weeks since the rib injury and they are still bothering me a little. Likely will be another 3 weeks before they are healed. My calves will take time as well. I did more than just wear them out, they need to heal.

I don't want to make any excuse for slowing down at St. George, but I am willing and want to name a cause even if it is only part of it. So, here is the latest theory after a week of pondering and chatting with a couple docs and sports massage therapists.

The ribs did not really hurt while racing, but they are likely the cause, or at least a contributing factor, of the cramping in my calves and the overall discomfort earlier than expected. I ran for 2 weeks with my ribs hurting every step during the taper. During those two weeks, I greatly favored my left side. I flexed muscles on the left to try and damper the impact and lessen the overall bounce of everything on my left side ranging from my arm and shoulder, through my pectoral muscle, which is right above where the injury was. The easy runs during those 2 weeks left me feeling off. My calves seemed to be tighter than normal, but I figured it would go away by raceday, which it did. Then, I likely repeated the "favoring" during the race. Even if it was subconsciously, because I was wanting to avoid any pain from the ribs. This was enough to cause an imbalance and a change in my stride. This would account for my left calf spasm during mile 16. Once that side started to go, the force moved to the right and caused the damage to my right calf.

Anyone want to concur with that analysis?

Either way, happy fall y'all.

 

Annivana Miles: 4.00
Comments
From Jake K on Mon, Oct 13, 2014 at 10:58:55 from 199.190.170.24

That's almost certainly what happened. Everything in your movement patterns are connected - and if the body is protecting one area, something else has to pick up the slack. Subtle changes are greatly magnified over a long, hard effort. The trick is to identify and correct, which should be easy in this case, since the rib injury wasn't a training problem, it was just a freak injury.

From emruns on Mon, Oct 13, 2014 at 12:21:15 from 65.130.145.153

I agree. It's not an excuse at all. The marathon is a beast that will expose whatever weaknesses you have. This totally makes sense, that you adjusted your running form to compensate for your rib injury. You still ran great despite the circumstances. I know it's not what you had planned on, but I believe you have way fadyer marathons ahead of you!

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 at 14:34:00 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks for the comments Jake and Em. I am glad that the rib issue was a cause of a freak injury and I plan on coming into the spring strong! Hoping to nab that sub-2:50 at Ogden.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 - 8:03 avg - 157 HR avg

5 easy on the parkway. Didn't look at my watch at all. That is the plan for a while during this "off" time. I actually wore my HR monitor, which I have not done in a long time. I think I am going to wear it on these easy runs just for fun. I don't know if it is overly helpful though. I tend to always be in the high 150's when running. That is where it was today. When I wore it for my repeats at the track, I would get up into the 170s and quickly drop back down into the 140s. Could be interesting to monitor for a month and see the trends.

Left calf had zero pain. I am pleased with that. Right calf was still sore and tight.

PM - hot tub - stretching/PT 

 

Annivana Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 - 8:09 - 154

Robin - "Holy wynd, Batman!"
Batman - "Yes, it was wIndy. Why do you insist on using a 'y?' It is childish"
Robyn - "It is unique. That is why I changed my name to 'Robyn.'"
Batman - "You are an 'almost superhero,' isn't that unique enough?"
Robyn - "Don't patronize me."

to be continued...

 

Annivana Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Sleep!?! Where are you?

If it was my birthday soon, I would ask for one night of uninterrupted sleep. Well...if it is only hypothetical, I would probably ask for two nights.

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.002.000.000.008.00

4 - 7ish avg - 161
4 - 8sih avg - 154

Ran 2 sets of 4 miles this morning. During the first set, I ran 2 at marathon pace in the middle. I had not planned on it, just got out there and wanted a couple faster miles for fun. They were hard. 6:36 and 6:17 (I think. I didn't upload my splits yet and I am at work). Calves got tight, as expected. Just wanted to feel a little wind for a bit. 

The second set of 4 was with a couple of guys in the neighborhood. There is a decent group that runs a few times a week. They average right around 8:00, so I might tag along here and there for some company this winter. 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Matt Schreiber on Fri, Oct 17, 2014 at 15:12:51 from 66.17.107.219

Nice job getting in the MP miles. Great PR in the marathon, too. Seemed like you were hoping for a couple minutes faster, but 5 minutes is huge when you're way down under 3. Let me know when. You figure out the calf cramping. Mine usually starts with a weird twingy feeling, and then BAM!! Calf turns into a pretzel. Not cool. Crazy how something like an injured rib can effect your calf. 100% makes sense though.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

12 - 7:32 - 161

12 solo on the parkway. 

Annivana Miles: 12.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.500.000.000.004.50

4.5 - 8:13 - 149

I finally uploaded my data from Saturday and was interested to see the splits. I averaged a 7:32 and I had wondered if I ran pretty even or what I had done because I did not look at my watch at all. I felt like my effort was pretty consistent for the full 12 miles. I figured I started pretty slow, like usual, but was happy to see the gradual progression without trying to do so. - 8:29, 7:59, 7:37, 7:30, 7:31, 7:24, 7:23, 7:23, 7:21, 7:22, 7:09, 7:12

Just wanted to get that down to look back on later. 

 

Annivana Miles: 4.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.002.000.000.005.00

5 - 7:09 - 162

Warm on the parkway with a great lightning show to the north this morning.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 - 7:55 - 152

Perhaps, egg nog was not the best post-run beverage.

 

Annivana Miles: 6.00
Comments
From Hille on Wed, Oct 22, 2014 at 08:55:26 from 67.128.146.116

Egg nog is never a good beverage choice.

From Scott on Wed, Oct 22, 2014 at 11:52:08 from 74.95.55.77

I agree with Hille in general. However, nog is good on Christmas and only in small doses. Having nog this early is a terrible choice.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Oct 24, 2014 at 09:29:24 from 50.203.76.218

Fact - Egg nog is delicious and should be available all year long.

From Hille on Fri, Oct 24, 2014 at 09:32:43 from 24.10.218.179

Maybe you should try fueling with eggnog during your next marathon. I am sure it has a lot of calories and would sit well in the stomach.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Oct 24, 2014 at 09:33:53 from 50.203.76.218

That is not a bad idea. I am going to try it soon on a long run. 230 calories per half a cup to be exact.

From allie on Sat, Oct 25, 2014 at 16:52:26 from 24.30.41.119

i think they have egg nog gu.

From SlowJoe on Sat, Oct 25, 2014 at 18:44:50 from 104.51.208.13

I've never tried it without whiskey, but post-run sounds a lot better than pre-run.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Oct 25, 2014 at 22:16:37 from 50.168.220.218

Allie, you get me a link to that and I will buy a case for us all to share!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.002.000.000.009.00

5 - 7:06 - 164

I am enjoying these shorter easy runs where I just fall into a faster pace and go with it. I don't look at my watch during the run, but still wear it so I have the data.

Fall weather has been exceptional!

 

PM - 4 - 8:30 - 147

Easy on the treadmill watching a show. Stretching after.

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 4.00Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

4 - 7:45 - 156
1 - 7:45 - 147

Ran 4 easy on the parkway chatting the entire time. Then, hopped on the treadmill to run one more and see what the heartrate did. Interesting to see the data between the two. Obviously there are lots of variables to account for; ie. wind, road vs. treadmill, accuracy of treadmill, etc. I always think my treadmill is a little fast and my turnover sure thinks so. My average cadence on the road was 173 (fewer than usual) and on the treadmill was 179.

There were several minutes between the two runs and my heartrate had dipped way down before I hopped on the treadmill. Comparing the first mile of the 4 to the mile on the treadmill, I think the heartrate average for that one mile is very similar. Also, who knows how accurate the heartrate strap is. I know they have become better over the years, but I am sure they are not 100%.

Just a little geeking out on data.

 

Annivana Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
14.000.000.000.0014.00

14 - 7:31 - 161

Out and back on the parkway. Blustery and warm morning. I saw 5 llamas.

We went to a party last night that was catered by hot dog on a stick. I may have found my new fuel for my next race!

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 14.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.100.000.000.005.10

5.1 - 7:57 - 144

The cold pocket on the parkway almost had me desiring gloves.

[update] I sneezed today and didn't feel any rib pain. 5 weeks and 2 days since the rib injury.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 5.10
Comments
From Scott on Mon, Oct 27, 2014 at 15:23:24 from 74.95.55.77

Good news about the rib. Also, my arms were totally numb after my run today and my wrists could barely move. Fun stuff.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.503.000.000.006.50

6.5 - 7:11 - 164

First day with the temperature below my shorts threshold.

 

Annivana Miles: 6.50
Comments
From Scott on Tue, Oct 28, 2014 at 09:26:15 from 74.95.55.77

3 mile tempo! Solid effort today.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Oct 28, 2014 at 09:31:34 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Scott. Just going with the flow. Have not looked at my watch during a run since St. George. Starting to think of goals for the spring and it is going to take some work to achieve them.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.000.000.000.006.00

6 - 7:55 - 147

Shorts or tights? That is starting to be the question under our current weather conditions at 6am.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 6.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
12.000.000.000.0012.00

12 - 7:29 - 159 - 590ft

Met JP and Jason at Highland and did a loop up through the U and back with a touch into the avenues. Was fun to meet them and log some miles. Was also nice to have a little more elevation change than the 7 feet on the parkway.

 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 12.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.750.000.000.006.75

6.75 - 7:54 - 147

Happy Halloween

 

Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 6.75
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
13.503.000.000.0016.50

16.5 - 7:11 - 163 - 619ft

Ran several miles solo around Liberty before meeting JP at 8am. We ran downtown through Gateway, around West High, and up Memory Grove to the City Creek gate before heading back to Liberty. Fun run and arguably the best November 1st weather this morning in Utah ever! There wasn't even a breeze rustling the leaves.

 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 16.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

50 minute walk around the neighborhood with Grey

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 - 7:53

Easy on the parkway. My right calf was slightly tight the entire run. Considering running a 5k on Saturday. I have not run 5k pace in a while so I am going to test the legs a bit tomorrow and see how they respond.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.253.750.000.0010.00

10 - 7:14

Had a little fartlek workout planned to test out the calf and see how it responded to some faster turnover. Decent effort at 30sec, 1 min, 2 min, 1, 30, 30, 1, 2. My right calf has seemed a little tight the last couple of runs. It was about the same today and didn't seem to be any worse with the faster turnover. 

Calf tightened up and was a little sore after the session for about 2 miles easy. Then I tossed in 6 strides of 80 steps and then one easy mile to finish at 10. Calf didn't hurt during the strides and maybe even loosend up a little bit from this quick turnover. 

Overall, I felt slow(er) and don't know about the 5k on Saturday. It has been 7 weeks since I have done a quick workout so I know I am slower than I was when I was running 3 miles sub-6 once a week with Josh and Adam.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

7 - 7:43

I have some odd niggles right now that I have never experienced nor have I a clue on how to remedy. 

I guess I will just keep on keeping on.

 

Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 7.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Wed, Nov 05, 2014 at 15:39:10 from 98.202.193.89

There is something about running SG that does this to people. Every time I've run it, I've gotten weird niggles too. Usually a knee problem. Make sure to rest if it gets worse. Good luck!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 - 7:11

Met JP and Scott at HHS and ran up through the U over to the Avenues and back.

Light pain with every step, but nothing impeding. Odd.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 09:19:30 from 159.212.71.173

What kind of pain are you dealing with?

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 11:23:43 from 50.203.76.218

Jake - I am having pain on the outer side of my lower left leg. It is more towards the back of the leg, but is not the calf and is not the shin. Perhaps the peroneus longus? I can't seem to stretch it, but I am able to push on it and cause pain. I thought it was some sort of lateral strain possibly from rolling an ankle a little, but have no recollection of rolling it. Today was by far the worst it has felt while running.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 11:29:15 from 50.203.76.218

Perhaps it is a tendon though. I don't know. If I push on it and point my toe, I get the most pain, lifting the toe almost causes none. So I guess it is flexing when I point.

From Jake K on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 12:18:01 from 159.212.71.173

You probably have identified the correct source of the problem.

The Letsrun forums can sometimes be a great resources for weird injuries like this...

http://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=3417355

Another good site if you haven't seen this:

http://www.athletestreatingathletes.com/ata-blog/2013/05/peroneal-tendonitis/

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 15:01:59 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake - Those are great references and the second one seems spot on to what I have going on. Perhaps I will not run the 5k Saturday. No sense causing more damage. Thoughts?

From Jake K on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 15:44:59 from 159.212.71.173

Racing is always going to be more destructive than not racing. So I guess it depends on how important the race is.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 16:26:03 from 50.203.76.218

this race is not important. i wanted to maybe de-thrown Collin seeing he has won the race the last 2 years, but I know I am not that fast!

From RunTyTyRun on Thu, Nov 06, 2014 at 17:02:51 from 50.198.177.205

Animal! (Sans injury)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
1.000.000.000.001.00

1 mile in and I pulled the plug. It is more difficult to know that you should stop and actually listen to your body. Going to take a couple days off and see if I can get to the bottom of this. Looking like it could be a little overuse injury that can be caused by a few different factors.

There are these shoes called Altras (a gift) that I am blaming at least part of it on. ;)

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 1.00
Comments
From Hille on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 09:11:31 from 67.128.146.20

No need to push it with no races coming up. Good to have an off season.

From Fritz on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 09:30:54 from 65.116.116.6

Those altras can be trouble I am afraid. Right now is definitely the best time to be patient with injuries.

Who is the new Scott guy?

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 09:42:46 from 50.203.76.218

Hille - I will be taking it easy. Need to get a bike or elliptical at my house.

Fritz - Glen sold my wife those Olympus shoes and I am questioning them. Scott is a buddy of mine that ventured out with me and JP yesterday. How is your recovery coming along?

From Fritz on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 10:14:55 from 65.116.116.6

coming along, thanks. I might be able to run a bit in a few days.

I put a pad in the heals of my Olympus's so they aren't exactly "zero drop". I have a coupon for another pair that I need to pawn off to someone.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 10:21:42 from 50.203.76.218

I also put a pad in the heal per Glen's recommendation. I felt like the left shoe lacked arch support after a while. I like the shoes for a couple hundred miles of easy days before they started giving me problems. Perhaps my pair is just defective. If you want to pawn the coupon off to me, I would give them another test. Glad you are healing up. Perhaps the running gods will let us run next week.

From Fritz on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 10:26:52 from 65.116.116.6

my first pair broke down completely at 200 miles and they gave me a new pair. I suspect the first batch didn't have great quality control. They are coming out with Olympus version 2 in December so hopefully the issues are resolved. I will jump back into the morning runs when I can.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 10:31:36 from 50.203.76.218

Who did you ask for the new pair at 200 miles? I feel like that is when might started to go lame.

From Fritz on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 10:35:05 from 65.116.116.6

I sent customer service pictures of the problem. At first they offered me a 50% coupon then decided to give me a new pair.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 10:38:01 from 50.203.76.218

Gotcha. Mine look alright on the outside. The inside just feels non-supportive.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Nov 07, 2014 at 16:08:18 from 50.203.76.218

They are sending me a new pair of the Paradigms instead of the Olympus. Said they are better suited for the road. We shall see.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

PT stretching and ice.

Feeling a lot less tender in the peroneal tendon. Still sore, but much better than yesterday.

Might contemplate testing a mile or two on Monday.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

Morning heat and stretching session. The foam roller session from last night served its purpose I reckon.

Mid afternoon hot tub and massage with the jets. Two days ago my left peroneal tendon was tender to the touch. Today, I massaged it with the jets and it was sore but not painful. Good sign.

1 hour walk on the trails behind my parents house in Summit County.

I have never been good at stretching. I am recommitting to my PT and stretching.

Comments
From AngieB on Sun, Nov 09, 2014 at 17:42:15 from 70.208.10.162

That's good your taking care of it now so you can train hard and get ready for st George again next year:) sub 2:50 next year for both of us!!

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 09:05:47 from 50.203.76.218

For sure Angie! I know you said you were taking some what of a break, though you are still logging good miles, but are you planning on a spring race?

From AngieB on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 09:48:22 from 199.249.238.14

Ya I think I am going to run Ogden half this year then a few other Halfs here and there before st George. You?

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Nov 10, 2014 at 10:26:07 from 50.203.76.218

Nice. I would like to run a few halfs as well but they always seem to fall right around when I am planning a full. I am going to run the Ogden full and then go from there. I will likely put my name in the St. George lottery again. I would like to run DesNews Half again to get the sub-1:20 as well.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 easy

A little sore, but feeling pretty good. Strething and then ice pack on my drive to work. 

PM - stretching / yoga / compression / sleep

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 5.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

AM - heat / massage / stretching / compression / ice

7 more weeks of my long winter's nap...aka 7 weeks to get feeling 100%

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.200.000.000.006.20

6.2 / stretching / ice

How many of you out there, if there is anyone that reads this, incorporate some sort of cross-training? I have not really done any in the last 2.5 years and am thinking some time on a bike or something might be beneficial. I don't want to do anything in place of running, but perhaps to compliment it. Thoughts?

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.20
Comments
From Ben VanBeekum on Wed, Nov 12, 2014 at 09:51:14 from 199.190.170.28

james I think great cross training is swimming with some type of Pt exercises afterwords. Great workout for endurance and incorporating some PT will help balance everything out. Worked for me last year.

From Rob Murphy on Wed, Nov 12, 2014 at 10:05:25 from 163.248.33.220

Hop Scotch is a good form of cross training. 12 oz. curls works too.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Nov 12, 2014 at 12:18:56 from 50.203.76.218

Ben - I need to look into the cost of our local rec center. I have not swim in a while, but really enjoy it.

Rob - perhaps I could buy this for my daughter/me for Christmas - http://www.target.com/p/alex-hopscotch-mat/-/A-10909126

From Jenruns on Wed, Nov 12, 2014 at 13:53:38 from 98.202.193.89

I'm guilty of not cross training as well. I own a spin bike and I will occasionally ride that when it's icy outside or I just don't fit my run in. I like it. I think biking is great for building nice strong quads and glutes. "Because I'm all about that bass, bout that base...no treble."

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Nov 13, 2014 at 09:49:52 from 50.203.76.218

Jen - Tyler is actually kind enough to lend me his spin bike starting this Saturday. I am looking forward to a little cycle and Hulu/Netflix.

ps - I only know the reference to that song because of morning radio.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
4.000.000.000.004.00

4 - no watch

alone. with my thoughts and light falling snow. almost perfect.

PM - hour of pt / yoga / stretching

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 4.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.501.000.000.006.50

6.5 - 7:30

Ailments are feeling a lot better. Going to hold off and enjoy my winter's nap for a while still. The PT and little strengthening / stretching / e/t/c seems to be paying off.

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
20.000.000.000.0020.00

AM - 11 - 7:34

Met Scott and Tyler at Liberty and did a fun downtown to avenues loop. Casual pace. Had my watch under my jacket sleeve and simply enjoyed the conversation. 

PM - 9 

Headed to the BAM training facility to watch the NBC presentation of Kona. Always fun to watch, especially on a treadmill. 

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 11.00Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 9.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.300.000.000.005.30

5.3 - 7:27

first of many frosty beards this winter

 

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 5.30
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

heat / stretching / ice

I started listening to the audiobook "Unbroken" yesterday in anticipation of the movie that will be released next month. If anyone wants a copy to listen to, just let me know. For those that don't know, it is the story of Louis Zamperini, "a former Olympic track star who survived a plane crash in the Pacific theater, spent 47 days drifting on a raft, and then survived more than two and a half years as a prisoner of war."

Also, for those of us in Utah, I thought this was an interesting article. I never considered altitude as a contributor to depression, anxiety, and suicide.

PM - 45 min on spin bike / stretching

 

 

Comments
From Jake K on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 09:50:53 from 159.212.71.25

Zamperini's story is very interesting. Hopefully the Unbroken film will feature lots of track action! :-)

That altitude theory is really poor "science". There are so many flaws in that argument that it hurts my head.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 10:34:15 from 50.203.76.218

Seemed pretty flawed to me as well Jake. I know very little about science though. Also, I seem to feel less depressed the higher into the mountains I go!

From allie on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 10:53:59 from 24.30.41.119

my nonscientific conclusion: i'm far happier in the mountains. :)

i found this interesting, mostly because it's the first time i've heard an explanation that didn't blame the culture.

some running-related commentary here: http://www.scienceofrunning.com/2014/11/your-brain-on-altitude-how-altitude-can.html

From Fritz on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 12:07:03 from 65.116.116.6

It definitely seems flawed to me too. This article poses a different explanation.

http://www.livescience.com/34470-suicide-belt.html

"The Intermountain West is a place that is disproportionately populated by middle-aged and aging white men, single, unattached, often unemployed, with access to guns," Wray told Freakonomics Radio in the 2011 episode "The Suicide Paradox."

"This may turn out to be a very powerful explanation and explain a lot of the variance that we observe," Wray said. "It’s backed up by the fact that the one state that is on par with what we see in the suicide belt is Alaska."

From Jenruns on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 12:36:00 from 73.20.25.97

There are so many contributing factors here...It's crazy that they are pinning it down to altitude. I agree, I'm happier the higher I go in the mountains.

"High on a mountain top..."

From Jake K on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 12:40:25 from 159.212.71.25

Pinning it on altitude is a way to generate page clicks and stir people up. The good thing is that it forces people to think (provided they are capable of thinking for themselves).

From Jason D on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 12:56:19 from 68.80.27.222

Pretty interesting piece, though I started to worry about all the Utah bloggers :-)

I think the piece that Fritz posted poses a more specific argument argument. It's possible that altitude is a contributing factor still but I like the larger context. "Middle-aged and aging white men, single, unattached, often unemployed, with access to guns" + who also live at altitude might be something to think about.

You'd have to look at the larger population demographics on suicide. If they tend to be similar to the findings in Utah, then it is possible that this pushes an already predisposed demographic over the edge (of the mountain).

I offer the fun following example on complex cause I got from a philosophy class some years ago, and to which my students always reply with such certainty:

A overloaded truck drives over an unsafe bridge and the bridge collapses. What caused the fall? The shaky bridge or the overloaded truck?

From Jake K on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 13:04:53 from 159.212.71.25

I (barely) got a B in my mandatory philosophy class at Colgate, and it was those types of questions that drove me nuts! :-)

Another way you could put it...

"Middle-aged and aging [insert race] men, single, unattached, often unemployed, with access to [insert any type of weapon or drug]" + who also live [insert any place] might be something to think about.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 19:52:28 from 50.168.220.218

solid comments all around.

those that are close to me that have suffered from depression seem to be unable to explain what is causing their anxiety and sadness. that is one of the hardest parts from my view, wanting to help or "fix" something, but not knowing what to do and the individual can't articulate what would help.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Nov 18, 2014 at 19:53:51 from 50.168.220.218

I don't know if I explained that in an understandable manner. Until I started writing that, I didn't realize how close that topic is to me. (sorry for the sappyness)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.500.000.000.006.50

6.5 - easy / parkway

if i released an album right now it would be titled "easy on the parkway."

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 6.50
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 - 7:02 - 880ft.

Met Fritz and JP in Sugarhouse and followed them on a loop up 13th S to Wasatch, across Wasatch and over to Tanner Park, and back to Sugarhouse.

It was a good run for me with a decent amount of elevation. Legs held up well and I only felt a little soreness where I have been having issues during the last .5 mile. I was pleasantly surprised because usually the hills are what have upset it. Great base building run for me.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Josh E on Thu, Nov 20, 2014 at 13:16:59 from 205.235.104.4

Your AM flexibility seems to have increased. If you can find the time, as many 9-11 mile runs on weekdays as you can do will be a big boost.

From james (runmehappy) on Thu, Nov 20, 2014 at 17:22:46 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Josh. I hope to run each Thursday with Fritz et. al. as long as he doesn't lose another organ.

Hope to be back to averaging 45-50 by next week.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.500.000.000.005.50

5.5 - leg did not hurt at all on the run. the pain that once was in the side has migrated to the foot. felt a little uncomfortable upon waking, but ceased prior to running.

Contemplating a 5k on Thanksgiving. Millcreek has one that seems pretty hilly. There is also one in Park City that my sister invited me to join her on. Looks like one will be 18 degrees at the start and the other 12. Decisions. Decisions.

Has anyone seen this video about Kayla Montgomery? Pretty amazing.

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 5.50
Comments
From Fritz on Fri, Nov 21, 2014 at 08:48:06 from 65.116.116.6

I like the other Sports Am turkey trot that starts at the Capital and ends in Memory Grove. The first couple of miles are uphill though. Any interest in a run tomorrow? JP and I were thinking for ~13 starting at 8 or 8:30. Maybe we could get Hille to join.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Nov 21, 2014 at 11:49:26 from 50.203.76.218

Fritz - I will see what my wife has planned for tomorrow morning and let you know. I for sure am going to run, just don't know how early I need to go. I will see if Hille wants in.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.000.000.000.0015.00

15 - solo on the parkway. quite gusty on the return. had to start at 6 because of a busy morning. hope to nap later.

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 15.00
Comments
From emruns on Sat, Nov 22, 2014 at 08:47:14 from 65.130.145.153

I went at six, trying to beat the supposed rain this morning. I should have looked you up! There's also a Turkey Trot in Cottonwood Heights. I'm running it. It's hilly, but does time really matter?

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Nov 22, 2014 at 17:52:57 from 50.168.220.218

Shoot. I didn't know there were others out at 6 on Saturdays! I have thought about the Cottonwood Heights Trot. And, no, time doesn't matter. I am going to be slow regardless.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 to warm the legs before a solid stretch / foam roll session. 

First run in the new Triumph ISO and I think I am going to like them a lot. 

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 5.00
Comments
From Jake K on Mon, Nov 24, 2014 at 10:43:31 from 159.212.71.200

The new edition of the Triumph is pretty sweet. Nice shoe for winter months when it's harder to get on soft surfaces.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Nov 24, 2014 at 10:49:22 from 50.203.76.218

I am pretty excited about it Jake. I have struggled to find a shoe for recovery days or just days when I want a little softer ride. Seems like a great fit.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.500.000.000.007.50

7.5 - 7:35 - 7ft

 

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 7.50
Comments
From AngieB on Mon, Nov 24, 2014 at 12:58:08 from 70.208.14.44

Your off to a good start this week. We should get a group together one of these Saturdays.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Nov 25, 2014 at 01:32:22 from 50.203.76.218

Let's do it Angie. I think almost any Saturday works for me. I have to run pretty early, but if that is alright I think we can get a decent group together.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 - 7:06 - 323ft.

Ran with Fritz and JP through Fritz's old neighborhood.

Get to spend the better part of the day at a local detention facility watching surveillance footage. One of the many things they don't teach you in law school. 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
5.000.000.000.005.00

5 - 7:06

2 miles at a moderate pace in the middle. Still don't know about a race in the morning. Might just go out and do a few pickups or maybe my own 5k on the parkway instead. No reason to race and cause injury. I am feeling like everything is on the mend and I don't want to take two steps backward.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 5.00
Race: South Davis Turkey Trot (3.1 Miles) 00:18:39, Place overall: 3, Place in age division: 1
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
3.100.003.100.006.20

So, last night a few things came to my mind that made me decide to essentially "buck up" and run a 5k this morning. I had decided I wasn't going to run, but I am grateful that I did. 

A while ago, Rob Murphy wrote a list and 2 things came to me last night: 1 - Don't be afraid to race when you are not 100% ready. It's good for you.; 2 - Sometimes you have to be satisfied with being 80% fit. Next, Josh told me a while ago that I needed to race more. He once said, "Practice makes perfect, and training is not practice." Finally, I remembered my own goal to race more to become more comfortable with racing.

I showed up at the rec center and ran the course once as a warm up. I had not seen it previously and it turned out to have a little more elevation than I had expected. The first mile and a bit is a very slight downhill going north. A right turn sends you east up a gradual incline that is about 1/3 a mile. Another right turn sends you back south up a long gradual incline until about 2.9 where you turn back west down a slight downhill and into the finishing chute.

After previewing the course, I determined I would shoot for 6:00 for the first mile and then likely slow on the climb and give a kick the last .2. I had low expectations and figured I would be happy with anything close to 20 minutes. I have not run near the 6:00 pace since September and have just run easy since St. George as I have been dealing with a few nags and niggles. I felt good after my run on Tuesday, but didn't want to push my luck.

I led down for the first .1 and then had a pack of high school kids pass me. I knew some were running the 10k but would have to wait until the mile mark to see how many peeled away when the 5k and 10k courses split. First mile came in at 5:52 and there were 5 of the high schoolers in front of me. Just before the first turn, one of the kids cramped up in the calf and stopped. I started up the first hill with 2 other high schoolers next to me. One faded and the other pulled ahead of me by 5 feet. I eased off the pace but held the effort.

Right after the turn back south I caught up and was side-by-side with the one high schooler that pulled away a little on the hill. I had talked to him before the race and he had told me that he would like to run somewhere between 18:30 and 19:00. Half a mile later I was feeling pretty good and I decided to pull away from him. I glanced at my watch once on that stretch and saw 6:15, about what I had expected. I decided to keep pushing seeing I was feeling surprisingly well. 

I managed to clip off 2 more youngsters up the final climb and kicked to finish. I had not looked at my watch in almost a mile and had no idea where I was. I came in at 18:39 and surprised myself. 3rd was good enough for a 20lb frozen turkey. 

Lessons learned - Rob and Josh are smart. Listen to them. Also, listen to yourself, go out and race and have fun. I got tired and was ready to be done, but it was the best I have felt in a 5k and it was a respectable time, especially considering my recent training. 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 6.20
Comments
From emruns on Thu, Nov 27, 2014 at 14:07:52 from 65.130.145.153

Nice James! I'm glad you decided to run today. I think I should race a bit more during the next cycle of training. It is great practice. It's motivating, and it teaches you to roll with the outcomes. Some races will be great, others might suck. But, there's always another one ahead.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Nov 29, 2014 at 21:17:49 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Em! I am glad, for many reasons, that I raced. Good luck this coming week and weekend. You will crush it!

From Josh E on Tue, Dec 02, 2014 at 13:43:16 from 205.235.104.4

Nice job James. If the question is to race or not to race, and you are feeling healthy, race. Shows your current "maintenance" fast pace is your old fast pace. Which means your super rocking it fast pace should be pretty fast.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Dec 02, 2014 at 19:51:38 from 50.168.220.218

Thanks Josh. I appreciate it. I am excited for 2015 and what it holds in store.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.250.000.000.0010.25

10.25 around the U and up through research park with Fritz and JP. Legs felt a little heavy on the hills but overall not too sore from yesterday. Didn't even think about it until after today's run, but my calves didn't hurt at all during or after the race yesterday and are not sore today. Perhaps, I am solving that issue. 

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 10.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.050.000.000.0016.05

16 and .05

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 16.05
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.250.000.000.006.25

6.25 - easy on the parkway

came down with a head cold this weekend and was worried it was turning into a sinus infection yesterday. woke up around 2 am this morning feeling quite a bit better and then fell back to sleep for several more hours before hitting the parkway.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 6.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 - 6:59avg - 359ft

Met Fritz, JP, and Noah at HHS and ran through Millcreek. A few of the miles were at moderate pace for me, but that pace is gradually becoming easier.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 10.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 - parkway mileage. beat the rain...mostly

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.650.000.000.0010.65

10.65 up along Foothill above the U and along part of the Salt Lake Marathon course with Fritz, JP, Jason, and Evan. Good group this morning and none of us managed to get hit by a car. 

Interesting article about calf, achilles, and foot pain here. Though, I don't think it translates into what I have been experiencing. Since I started running almost 3 years ago I have run in 4mm drop shoes and recently purchased the ISO that is 8mm.

 

 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 10.65
Comments
From Josh E on Thu, Dec 04, 2014 at 09:46:58 from 205.235.104.4

That's always an accomplishment with Fritz since he is impervious to traffic.

From Jake K on Thu, Dec 04, 2014 at 09:50:13 from 199.190.170.24

You've got a nice little Kinvara/Triumph rotation going there.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Dec 05, 2014 at 08:48:52 from 50.203.76.218

Josh, that is true. Fritz took on a few cars that morning.

Jake, I am like the rotation. I think I will snag another pair of each in the next couple of months.

From Fritz on Fri, Dec 05, 2014 at 09:04:55 from 65.116.116.6

every runner for him/herself when crossing roads. This article suggests, as we would expect, that it is a good idea to rotate shoes with different toe to heel offsets. I am slightly bummed that the Pegagus dropped from 12mm to 10mm.

http://www.active.com/running/Articles/To-Rotate-or-Not-to-Rotate-Your-Running-Shoes-That-is-the-Question.htm?cmp=291&memberid=30204459&lyrisid=44436646

Researchers gathered kinematic data using a six-camera motion analysis system and a force plate to examine ground reaction forces. From their findings, they concluded that "different running shoes affect running kinetics and kinematics at or before heel strike but not at mid-stance."

What this means is that different shoes affect things like the dynamics of your knee and ankle, as well as the flexion of your foot. While this may sound insignificant, when you consider that you take around 1,000 steps each mile, it begins to make sense why some variation in foot strike may provide some benefit in lessening injury risk.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 - easy parkway livin'

an odd fog rolled in that was only about 7 or 8 feet deep that extended about a quarter mile. was a pretty unique experience to run through it.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 8.00
Comments
From AngieB on Fri, Dec 05, 2014 at 09:44:41 from 199.190.170.22

Your killing it in mileage. Good job! I am thinking about running with you guys tomarrow what time are you going?

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Dec 05, 2014 at 10:54:56 from 50.203.76.218

AngieB - Thanks! I just sent you a FB message with the details.

From Jenruns on Fri, Dec 05, 2014 at 13:31:21 from 73.20.25.97

Strange fog? Must be the ghost of Christmas past. Or the ghost of Allie past...I've seen her from time to time.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
16.101.000.000.0017.10

17.1 - 7:08 - 742ft

Met Jen at Liberty and did the downtown loop to the avenues. Tossed in the 5 mile loop through the aves that goes up Virginia, across 11th ave, and into Memory Grove. Was a great run with some decent elevation and great conversation. Glad Jen slowed down for today and let me run with her. 

 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 17.10
Comments
From Fritz on Sat, Dec 06, 2014 at 12:59:39 from 65.130.16.39

That's a good run and a solid week of running. Jen should join us for the morning runs. We could use some diversity.

From Jenruns on Sat, Dec 06, 2014 at 16:39:00 from 73.20.25.97

Ha...you didn't slow me down. YOU were the one ahead of me going up those hills! Great run today! Thanks for the scenic route...Memory Grove is one of my favorites. Fritz, I'd love to join the boys for some morning runs.

From Fritz on Sat, Dec 06, 2014 at 17:26:21 from 70.208.4.121

Jen, I sent the schedule. More the merrier.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.250.000.000.008.25

8 and change on the parkway. Unseasonably warm weather. No complaints here.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 8.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

am - one good thing about an off season is sleeping in when your body tells you it needs it. i must have really needed it because i didn't get up until after 7.

might get a few miles in tonight, but maybe not.

 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.501.002.000.009.50

Met Fritz, JP, and Dan at HHS and warmed up over to the track at East. Fritz and JP were doing 6x800 and I had a goal to get in a decent workout without over doing it. I figured I would hang out somewhere behind JP and see how it went. I did 2x800 and then switched to 400s for the last 4. My right calf became a little tight at the beginning of the second 800 and I have no reason to push it. I was still happy with the effort and the workout. Finished off with a "cool down" back to HHS which included a marathon pace mile.

2:39, 2:43, 79, 78, 78, 79

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 9.50
Comments
From Jenruns on Wed, Dec 10, 2014 at 11:58:04 from 73.20.25.97

Smart move. Listen to your body. Sorry I couldn't join you boys this morning. You were all too fast for me anyways!

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Dec 10, 2014 at 12:23:38 from 50.203.76.218

It was either smart or I am a wuss. Don't know for sure yet. You could have hung with me with ease. Fritz and JP were just blurs up ahead.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

10 - 7:10

Met Fritz and JP at HHS and ran to Liberty for a couple loops and back. Was feeling a little slow and sluggish from yesterday. Great sunrise and still loving shorts weather on December 11th.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jake K on Thu, Dec 11, 2014 at 09:03:29 from 199.190.170.24

There were about 2 minutes where the clouds were just right and that sunrise was incredible. Kinda wished I had a phone/camera with me!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.500.500.008.00

8 on the parkway. For no real reason I decided to push the last mile. I eased into the pace and ended up with a 6:02. 52 degrees on 12/12. I'll take it.

A few people have asked me if I am signing up for the Wasatch 100 again this year. I am undecided right now. I didn't get in last year, so my name will be in the lottery twice. Part of me wants to do it, and another part doesn't.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Fritz on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 09:28:15 from 65.116.116.6

another part doesn't? That's odd.

From james (runmehappy) on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 09:44:33 from 50.203.76.218

Ha. There is something intriguing about the race and the distance. Don't you think Fritz?

From Hille on Fri, Dec 12, 2014 at 10:15:38 from 67.128.146.20

Intriguing if you enjoy torture and suffering and such.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
17.000.000.000.0017.00

17 - 7:11

Met Jen and Brayden at Liberty and ran to Sugarhouse for a loop and then downtown. Tried to avoid having to finish with multiple Liberty laps. I felt a little more tired than last week's 17. Nonetheless, great weather. Great run. 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 17.00
Comments
From Josh E on Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 10:28:27 from 75.169.25.203

If you never go slower than today on your long runs, you will make good progress. I have February 7 penciled in for my next long run.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 13:07:17 from 50.168.220.218

Good to hear Josh. I look forward to running with you again soon. I am feeling a lot more comfortable at this pace. At mile 10 we were averaging 7:28. So, we dropped the pace a bit the last 7 miles.

From Hille on Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 14:21:47 from 24.10.218.179

Nice run, you are logging some good miles. Hopefully, ne of these days I will join you guys and try to stay up.

From Jenruns on Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 18:06:25 from 73.20.25.97

U R Fast

From Fritz on Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 19:07:34 from 98.202.9.237

Nice run. I have seen progress in just the few weeks we have been running. 7 is the new 7:30 :)

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 20:42:41 from 50.168.220.218

Hille - you will be back in no time and I will be hanging at your heals.

Jen - if I am fast, you are fast. Which, you are.

Fritz - thanks. I feel like I have been improving and hope the upswing continues. I appreciate the invites to join your crew.

From AngieB on Sat, Dec 13, 2014 at 21:26:32 from 65.130.83.176

You guys went far and fast again! Lol! Not sure if I can come out of my hibernation and stay up w you guys:)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 - 7:03 - easy to moderate on the parkway without looking at watch. first mile was 7:56, second was 7:20, next 6 were sub-7:00. 

with less than a mile to go, 2 dogs came out of the darkness and started circling me. one showed his teeth and came at me. i simultaneously lunged at it and yelled. the dog yelped (in fear of my beard i reckon) and turned away. then the owner showed up and said a soft "sorry" and kept walking past me. i don't think my heart rate came back down until i stopped running.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Jenruns on Mon, Dec 15, 2014 at 14:43:11 from 73.20.25.97

Nice job scaring off that dog. I HATE dogs when I'm running! Great AP too! Speedy!!

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.150.000.000.0010.15

10 - 7:12 - 480ft

Met Fritz and JP at HHS and ran through Sugarhouse and Millcreek. 2 miles over 8:00, 4 sub-7:00, and the rest in between.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 10.15
Comments
From Josh E on Tue, Dec 16, 2014 at 14:15:26 from 205.235.104.4

You just passed me on the mileage board for the year. I can't stay with you.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Dec 16, 2014 at 14:29:15 from 50.203.76.218

Only because you have been injured. Took me a few months of you not running to even come close. Hoping that this consistent higher (for me) mileage pays off.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.601.001.400.0010.00

Met Fritz, JP, and Evan at HHS and warmed up over to Liberty. I am a little frustrated with my workout. My legs were not fresh, so I thought I would do one loop at a good effort and then the second loop at marathon pace or so (hoping for 6:15). Maybe I pushed the first lap too hard, but I don't know. I was falling apart on the second and just didn't feel good at all. Loop one was at 5:49 pace. I started into loop 2 and settled in at about 6:00 and slowed up from there. I was barely hanging on so I pulled the plug at the mile mark, ending that mile at 6:15. I finished the loop and met back up with the group to run back to HHS.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jake K on Wed, Dec 17, 2014 at 09:59:42 from 199.190.170.31

Think about it this way - you did 85% of the workout you intended, on a day you weren't "on." That's not a terrible outcome.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Dec 17, 2014 at 11:07:07 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Jake. That is a good point. I also don't really know where I am at right now with speed. I don't have a benchmark or baseline to work from yet. Perhaps I will do some 400s the first week of January to determine what I am dealing with going into training for my spring race.

From Josh E on Wed, Dec 17, 2014 at 13:59:34 from 205.235.104.4

This is the offseason. No stressing out about workouts in the offseason. You are just putting the legs on notice. There will be plenty of weeks and months to stress out about workouts. Enjoy the holidays and think of running as little as possible.

Like I like to say, it's good to get frustrated by increasingly faster times. A 5:49 loop is far from shabby.

From Josh E on Wed, Dec 17, 2014 at 14:02:29 from 205.235.104.4

Or perhaps that was a 6:49 on the first loop typo. Either way - too soon to matter.

From james (runmehappy) on Wed, Dec 17, 2014 at 14:05:37 from 50.203.76.218

Thanks Josh. I am feeling a little better as the day goes on. I just want to have a breakthrough and be "fast"...whatever that means. No typo, 5:49 pace for the loop it was. You enjoy the holidays as well.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.250.000.000.0010.25

Slightly more relaxed 10 with Fritz and JP. Legs were a little heavy from yesterday, but not as bad as I had expected. The slower pace helped with that.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 10.25
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
6.200.000.000.006.20

Easy, and slightly breezy, parkway miles.

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 6.20
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.002.000.000.0017.00

8 + 8 + 1 = 17

Met Fritz and Scott at Arby's at 6am and ran 8 miles to meet up with a big group, one member of which Fritz knows. Ran another 8 with the additions of Josh (good to run with him again) and Dan. It was a fun morning. We ended at the house where we met the group and ate some breakfast and socialized with the 20+ runners. Fritz and I then ran the mile back to our cars.

I felt good this morning and am happy with the 7:09 average for the 16 with the final mile at 6:22. 

 

Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 17.00
Comments
From Josh E on Sun, Dec 21, 2014 at 10:23:57 from 75.169.25.203

Nice seeing you again old man. And a tour of the old hood to boot. I could do a parkway run on Friday depending on your situation.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Dec 22, 2014 at 10:53:09 from 50.203.76.218

Sounds good Josh. What is your schedule Friday? Shoot me a text and we can figure something out.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 shlep shloppy miles

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

Loop to the south with Fritz and Evan from HHS. Highlight was running through the cemetery with all of the luminaries set out for Christmas. There are thousands throughout the entire grounds. 

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Jake K on Tue, Dec 23, 2014 at 09:30:09 from 199.190.170.28

Were they all lit up yet? I noticed all the bags/candles on the ground on Sunday.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Dec 23, 2014 at 09:34:56 from 50.203.76.218

Yeah Jake, they were all lit up. Was pretty cool to see them all lit in the dark this morning. Someone put in some serious work to get those all set up.

From Jake K on Tue, Dec 23, 2014 at 09:44:31 from 199.190.170.28

Cool. I should have checked it out. Totally forgot that I made a mental note to do that two days ago! :-0

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
15.000.000.000.0015.00

Met Fritz, Evan, and Emily and ran 15 on the parkway with a loop through my neighborhood for good measure. It was a quicker mid-week long(er) run. We averaged a 7:01 despite the first mile being over 8. I am feeling a lot more comfortable sub-7.

8:07, 7:18, 7:22, 6:57, 6:57, 6:47, 6:47, 6:53, 6:49, 6:51, 6:55, 6:49, 6:53, 6:53, 6:58

Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 15.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

72 laps at the indoor track = 8 miles. 

Time went by surprisingly fast. Nice to just change it up a bit. 

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 8.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
17.000.000.000.0017.00

I will consider today's run 17 miles.

Spent 2 hours and 10 minutes on my treadmill which never seems to be accurate. Based on effort etc I would guess it was longer, but 17 is what I was planning on today to end the week.

Now we are headed to my folks in summit county to spend the day relaxing, sledding, and hot tubbing.

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 17.00
Comments
From Hille on Sat, Dec 27, 2014 at 13:33:07 from 24.10.218.179

Good run, I didn't think you knew what a treadmill was.

From james (runmehappy) on Sat, Dec 27, 2014 at 19:17:12 from 67.41.161.162

Hille- My encounters with the treadmill are few and far between. I don't mind running on it if I don't do it too often. When we we going to run?

From Hille on Sun, Dec 28, 2014 at 10:07:09 from 24.10.218.179

It can get tiresome, but I am a wimp and it beats the cold for me. We need to get out soon. I am getting a little mileage in so I might be able to hang with you now. My problem is that I coach my son's basketball team every Saturday morning which makes an early run difficult. But, we will figure something out.

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
0.000.000.000.000.00

15 minutes on the elliptical to loosen up a bit. Then, stretching and some balance work. I have a gnarly knot in my neck that I might need to get a massage therapist working on. 

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
8.000.000.000.008.00

8 fun miles playing in the snow. It was about ankle deep on the trail. The quietness of running in the snow makes it one of my favorite times to get out early.

Fun fact - my car is borderline dead in my garage. Anyone have a car for sale?

 

Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 8.00
Comments
From Josh E on Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 13:45:57 from 205.235.104.4

You can buy our Tribeca. It's time for the Ereksons to invest in a minivan.

From james (runmehappy) on Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 13:47:18 from 50.203.76.218

Is that a soft announcement of another child coming to your house Josh?

I have heard you complain about your Tribeca. Plus, I don't think I could afford it.

From Josh E on Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 13:48:54 from 205.235.104.4

I think it's worth about 10k at this point. I don't love it but my wife does. She's not in as much of a hurry to get rid of it as I am.

From Josh E on Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 13:49:23 from 205.235.104.4

oh and no more kids no way

From Fritz on Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 17:03:03 from 75.80.245.143

minivans look dumb but they are very functional. I have been cruising around in one in southern cal.

From allie on Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 17:11:30 from 24.30.41.119

buy a jeep!

From Josh E on Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 17:52:12 from 75.169.25.203

My prius demonstrates my preference for function over form.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Dec 30, 2014 at 09:52:20 from 50.203.76.218

I can see a minivan in our future, but not the immediate. They are practical and functional beyond belief!

Allie - I drove a Jeep for a long time and sold it right before grad school. I would like another one some day, but right now I have a 30 mile commute so I am looking for the best commuter possible.

From allie on Tue, Dec 30, 2014 at 10:08:33 from 66.249.83.203

i used to commute 170 miles roundtrip in a jeep. i don't recommend it. prius sounds good. :)

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
10.000.000.000.0010.00

I am not one to opt for the treadmill when it is cold, but biting wind that makes it feel like -24 degrees can keep me inside. So, I did a good workout of elevation change increasing by 1 every five minutes after the 15 minute warmup.

7:30 pace on my treadmill* - 15 minutes flat at 0 elevation, 5 at 1, 5 at 2, 5 at 3, 5 at 4, and 5 at 5. Then I worked my way back down. 5 at 4, 5 at 3, 5 at 2, 5 at 1, and 15 at 0. Totalled 75 minutes.

 

Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 10.00
Comments
From Scott on Tue, Dec 30, 2014 at 11:58:21 from 74.95.55.77

I need to find a treadmill for days like today. I got up early and felt how cold it was outside and opted to do some strength training inside. If I had a treadmill I would have run.

From james (runmehappy) on Tue, Dec 30, 2014 at 11:59:30 from 50.203.76.218

KSL man! People are practically giving them away because they just hang their laundry on them to dry. How was the cruise?

From Josh E on Tue, Dec 30, 2014 at 16:20:21 from 166.137.246.61

wimps

Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
7.000.000.000.007.00

the wind, or lack thereof, makes all the difference.

1 degree when i left my house. a couple toes on my left foot were a little cold by the end, but everything else was great. i took a page out of fritz's book and wore mittens. they are my new go-to sub-5 degrees.

happy new year's eve!

i have officially been running for 3 years. perhaps i will reflect on that a little tomorrow and write up a bit on where i have come from since starting running and where i plan to be heading.

 

Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 7.00
Easy MilesMarathon Pace MilesThreshold MilesVO2 Max MilesTotal Distance
2144.12246.9177.650.252468.93
Hoka Mafate 3 Miles: 272.25Brooks PureFlow 3 (blue) Miles: 322.70Brooks PureFlow 3 (black) Miles: 322.70Brooks PureFlow 3 (boston) Miles: 321.35Kinvara 5 (black) Miles: 340.57Kinvara 5 (blue) Miles: 301.50Annivana Miles: 244.50Saucony Triumph ISO Miles: 144.55Kinvara 5 (blue 2) Miles: 96.90
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