running gear

So it turns out that it isn't quite as exciting to write about my running when I am not in an exotic location.  In fact, while I am beginning to like the running a bit more, it doesn't compare to the joy I felt when someone cheered me on in the park in Mali!


As part of my investing time into running I have also invested in 'gear'.  I have been known to have a bit of a shopping habit so this hasn't been much of a strain for me.  I started with 3/4 length running tights, a shirt, socks and a sweater.  Then it was new shoes....my previous ones were pre-Uganda (July 2009).  I got asics, which is a new brand for me, and I have to say I felt a difference when I changed into them.  The next purchase has been more winter wear - a long sleeve running shirt, a jacket and a head band.  (I am now looking at running gear as an investment for my next adventure - trekking in Nepal....I will need good layers!)  And I found my old digital watch so I can check that off my list.


And the running:
November 3 - a group run....I ran a shorter distance but for the first time made it back to the start point in time for a closing chat!  Around 7.5km.
November 8 - first run in the new shoes!  Running on my own in the morning.  5.4km
November 10 - a group run.  I was really nervous when I saw the route for the day.  The circuit start point keeps getting further from the gym.  I headed out a couple minutes early and was able to start the circuit with the group.  On my second loop I picked up the pace and passed my running partner (or the man I am generally grouped with)!  9km!!
November 13 - solo run again.  Boring.  Though I did learn how to use map my run so I could plot out the 7km that I needed to cover.  7.4km.  I think it took me around 55 minutes.
November 15 - running with Julia.  We did our 5.4km loop.  My left leg felt dead while we jogged but I found when I picked up pace my stride changes and everything feels better.  new fastest time for the loop in 32 minutes!


I did spend close to two hours at physio this evening trying to identify my various aches and pains.  I probably shouldn't have given it up when I first started physio for a nerve issue in June.  No worries though - Jessica doesn't think I am completely insane for planning on running the marathon.  Hopefully my fitness assessment on Friday doesn't indicate otherwise!


Another group run tomorrow morning.

back in Toronto

For some reason the trip home seemed longer than the trip to Mali....I wonder why that is. I got some sleep and I watched some cheesy movies.  I landed in Toronto to the great surprise that my dad was picking me up at the airport - a great welcome home!


Exhausted I tried to catch up on emails and arrange a run with my coach - we agreed to run Tuesday night.  A night run is definitely a great way to try to get over the jet lag!!  We did just over 5km and it felt pretty good - I got faster and faster over the final few blocks (and when I say fast it likely means that maybe I ran instead of jogged).  My legs didn't feel like led here but my various aches and pains definitely kicked in.  Lots and lots of stretching is needed!