I don't know about you, but even though this was a 'short week' due to the holiday, it has felt awfully long. I have to work both Saturday and Sunday but I am going to try to keep it under four hours each day and hopefully that will boost my attitude.
I am finishing the web articles today for Outstanding Women. I have decided to do shorter ones for the web and more details for !ntuition Magazine. That means I can more details about the women and that's a very good thing because it's hard to summarize amazing women in just 300 words. :)
My need to write 90%of my day means I will not be working out today. But I will be making up for it tomorrow. As soon as I am done with work I am going to hit the YMCA Healthy Living Center and spend quality time beating the bag and doing cardio. Trainer Gwyn and I agreed it is time to step up cardio. It's one of the reasons the scale isn't moving much. I am putting on muscle and losing inches, but the fat isn't shedding at the rate we might hope, so it's time to work harder.
That is actually right on track with my knee. Therapist Kristi and I agreed to take my PT down to every other week unless something happens and I end up in pain. It means more exercises at home and increasing what I do with Gwyn, but I am excited, because it also means that running will be a real possibility once I get enough weight off. (I can't go pounding on my knee at this weight.)
Tonight I am doing a remote broadcast at the Blank Park Zoo, it is their first Family Fun Night of the year. Hopefully the weather will cooperate. Right now though I better hit the shower - I stayed home this morning to write. Yea for writing in my nightgown!
Have a good day!
Yours in Health,
Kate
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Showing posts with label running. Show all posts
Friday, June 4, 2010
Saturday, January 23, 2010
I Miss my Red Jacket
I watched a guy running down the street this morning in 35 degree weather and felt a pang of jealousy. I miss running. I never thought I would say that, in fact when I started running I hated it. It was hard, I couldn't breathe after a block and I would sweat like I was in a sauna.
Over time I embraced it because it was working. Very little scorches calories like a run. Five or six days a week I would tie my shoes, put on my head phones and scoot out the door. A good walk to warm up and then go. Most days it was just three or so miles, but I was up to running 6 or 7 miles on my long days before the doctor told me to stop.
Running not only slimmed me down, but it freed me. When you are concentrating on breathing and watching out for pot holes, it is terribly hard to worry about work or a relationship that is wonky. Instead you become freer and when the endorphins kick in, you fly. By the end you are drenched in sweat, breathing heavily and have a smile on your face.
On Saturdays I would get up extra early, run to get to work, do what I needed to do and then run to the Downtown Farmers Market and meet Lori and then run home. It was cool most mornings, so I would wear my red jacket.
My red jacket was the first thing I ever bought in a size large. It was fitted and slimming with white piping and when I would sweat, it would wick the water away. It protected me from light rain and too much sun and was a constant companion one I bought it. I had splurged and spent $30, it was a great investment. Not only was it a tool for exercise, but it fed my sorely lacking self-esteem - I was wearing a size large!
The red jacket went missing in the fall of 2008. It has become a symbol of everything that slowly fell apart that fall - knee injury, lung infection, cancer scare, weight gain. The jacket was so important to me that when a guy I was dating finally called after three weeks of being MIA to break off our relationship and asked me if I wanted any of my stuff back, I only asked if he had my jacket. He wasn't important, but the jacket and all it meant to me was.
I still get upset thinking about the red jacket. It almost hurts sometimes. Mainly because it symbolizes so much - a time when I put myself first, when I cared about me - and now, like the jacket, that has been lost and I am having trouble finding it again.
I need a new red jacket - a new way to put me first. I am hoping blogging again and writing for Intuition will help me find it.
Yours in health,
Kate
Over time I embraced it because it was working. Very little scorches calories like a run. Five or six days a week I would tie my shoes, put on my head phones and scoot out the door. A good walk to warm up and then go. Most days it was just three or so miles, but I was up to running 6 or 7 miles on my long days before the doctor told me to stop.
Running not only slimmed me down, but it freed me. When you are concentrating on breathing and watching out for pot holes, it is terribly hard to worry about work or a relationship that is wonky. Instead you become freer and when the endorphins kick in, you fly. By the end you are drenched in sweat, breathing heavily and have a smile on your face.
On Saturdays I would get up extra early, run to get to work, do what I needed to do and then run to the Downtown Farmers Market and meet Lori and then run home. It was cool most mornings, so I would wear my red jacket.
My red jacket was the first thing I ever bought in a size large. It was fitted and slimming with white piping and when I would sweat, it would wick the water away. It protected me from light rain and too much sun and was a constant companion one I bought it. I had splurged and spent $30, it was a great investment. Not only was it a tool for exercise, but it fed my sorely lacking self-esteem - I was wearing a size large!
The red jacket went missing in the fall of 2008. It has become a symbol of everything that slowly fell apart that fall - knee injury, lung infection, cancer scare, weight gain. The jacket was so important to me that when a guy I was dating finally called after three weeks of being MIA to break off our relationship and asked me if I wanted any of my stuff back, I only asked if he had my jacket. He wasn't important, but the jacket and all it meant to me was.
I still get upset thinking about the red jacket. It almost hurts sometimes. Mainly because it symbolizes so much - a time when I put myself first, when I cared about me - and now, like the jacket, that has been lost and I am having trouble finding it again.
I need a new red jacket - a new way to put me first. I am hoping blogging again and writing for Intuition will help me find it.
Yours in health,
Kate
Friday, October 10, 2008
Running with Gordon
I did a short run with Gordon last night. He was running a little late and I had to get to Planned Parenthood to volunteer.
But it's so great to run with him. The running itself is good, but the conversation is better. I am too busy for my own good and I don't get much of a chance to just be social with my brothers.
When Gordon and I run together I get to talk to him and I learn something new every time. Even though I have known him for his whole 33.5 years, he always shares something new. And each time it is a reminder of how much I like him, he's a really good guy.
It makes me want to run with Casey (my youngest brother), but I guess I have never asked. He has Caelen and Annette, but maybe I could get him to squeeze me in. But he recently injured his hamstring in a sharp shooting competition, so I don't know if he's ready to run yet. I will ask though, because I would like to know him better too.
Yours in (mental) health, Kate
But it's so great to run with him. The running itself is good, but the conversation is better. I am too busy for my own good and I don't get much of a chance to just be social with my brothers.
When Gordon and I run together I get to talk to him and I learn something new every time. Even though I have known him for his whole 33.5 years, he always shares something new. And each time it is a reminder of how much I like him, he's a really good guy.
It makes me want to run with Casey (my youngest brother), but I guess I have never asked. He has Caelen and Annette, but maybe I could get him to squeeze me in. But he recently injured his hamstring in a sharp shooting competition, so I don't know if he's ready to run yet. I will ask though, because I would like to know him better too.
Yours in (mental) health, Kate
Thursday, October 9, 2008
The Knee
Pain. I ran yesterday despite the pain and ouch. I know, if it hurts, don't do it. But I am struggling with that.
I am set to run with Gordon again tonight. Hopefully it will fair better.
The doctor's office finally called yesterday, my orthopedist appointment is Monday, maybe I will find some answers.
I just have to make it through the 19th for the 5K. Then I can rest it a little.
Yours in fitness, Kate
I am set to run with Gordon again tonight. Hopefully it will fair better.
The doctor's office finally called yesterday, my orthopedist appointment is Monday, maybe I will find some answers.
I just have to make it through the 19th for the 5K. Then I can rest it a little.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Feeling a bit better
Why doesn't the scale move after one day of eating right and exercising? LOL. Just kidding.
But, honestly, yesterday I had a good day. I watched what I ate (and logged it) and worked out hard. My knee is acknowledging that today.
While I was at the doctor last week I talked to her about my left knee. I mentioned it at the beginning of September, it was rebuilt and now, it keeps putting me in pain.
I thought at first it was the specific exercises I was doing. But now, no matter what I do - run, bike, elliptical, squats, etc - it hurts like hell. Now, a normal person would say, "I better not exercise". A formerly obese, currently overweight girl, she just can't. I didn't run last week or do much of anything else and that doesn't work for me. I have to keep moving and cut calories to take off the weight.
Anyway, my doc took an x-ray of the knee and not surprisingly, found arthritis. But we agreed, that's not what this is. In fact, it feels like the back of my knee is broken, across the width of my leg. It's sore, sharp, throbbing and slips all at once. Yes, I know, ouch.
My doc is supposed to set-up an appointment with an orthopedist; if they haven't called by tomorrow I will call to remind them. I had joked about really pushing my knee so it actually hurt when I went in. (I didn't want mechanics syndrome, you know, "No, I swear, it makes that noise." But never in front of the mechanic.)
Ironically, I can't make it stop hurting this time and I haven't even been rough on it. That's mainly because I realized I at least need it to last until the 5K on the 19th.
Other than the knee though, I am in a better place. I plan to work on doing better everyday.
Yours in fitness, Kate
But, honestly, yesterday I had a good day. I watched what I ate (and logged it) and worked out hard. My knee is acknowledging that today.
While I was at the doctor last week I talked to her about my left knee. I mentioned it at the beginning of September, it was rebuilt and now, it keeps putting me in pain.
I thought at first it was the specific exercises I was doing. But now, no matter what I do - run, bike, elliptical, squats, etc - it hurts like hell. Now, a normal person would say, "I better not exercise". A formerly obese, currently overweight girl, she just can't. I didn't run last week or do much of anything else and that doesn't work for me. I have to keep moving and cut calories to take off the weight.
Anyway, my doc took an x-ray of the knee and not surprisingly, found arthritis. But we agreed, that's not what this is. In fact, it feels like the back of my knee is broken, across the width of my leg. It's sore, sharp, throbbing and slips all at once. Yes, I know, ouch.
My doc is supposed to set-up an appointment with an orthopedist; if they haven't called by tomorrow I will call to remind them. I had joked about really pushing my knee so it actually hurt when I went in. (I didn't want mechanics syndrome, you know, "No, I swear, it makes that noise." But never in front of the mechanic.)
Ironically, I can't make it stop hurting this time and I haven't even been rough on it. That's mainly because I realized I at least need it to last until the 5K on the 19th.
Other than the knee though, I am in a better place. I plan to work on doing better everyday.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Friday, September 26, 2008
Tomorrow is the Walk From Obesity
I go before people like myself tomorrow. There will be people who have lost weight. Want to lose weight. Can't control their eating. Have tried everything. Workout constantly. Eat healthy. And some who may have had surgery. That is the only thing I haven't done with regard to my weight.
I am tipping the scale at 167 right now. That is 18 pounds higher than where I was at the end of May. It is 27 pounds higher than I would like. It is 32 more pounds higher than my original goal. It is unacceptable.
I have had people remind me that muscle weighs more than fat - it does. But muscle is not what is making the buttons want to bust off my pants right now - it is fat. Fat that I swore I would never let come visit again. Fat that has no place in my life. Fat that I can blame no one but myself for - I have failed me.
As I slid back into old eating habits (huge portions and high sugar), I also started to slow down my exercise. That's a 1-2 punch to the gut - literally. I now am living proof of what I have preached for a very long time - "This is forever. It's a lifestyle change. You can't go back to the way you were before, it won't work."
I am feeling very hypocritical as I prepare to stand before these people tomorrow. Some will be looking for hope, some for inspiration. I plan to give them both and I will be looking for both for me as well. I expect I will find it in stories and struggles that sound startlingly like my own.
Yours in health, Kate
P.S. - I have already been proactive - my brother and I are now training for the Des Moines Marathon 5K. Since I refuse to be slower than I was last year - I guess I have no choice but to skim off some weight and get running again.
I am tipping the scale at 167 right now. That is 18 pounds higher than where I was at the end of May. It is 27 pounds higher than I would like. It is 32 more pounds higher than my original goal. It is unacceptable.
I have had people remind me that muscle weighs more than fat - it does. But muscle is not what is making the buttons want to bust off my pants right now - it is fat. Fat that I swore I would never let come visit again. Fat that has no place in my life. Fat that I can blame no one but myself for - I have failed me.
As I slid back into old eating habits (huge portions and high sugar), I also started to slow down my exercise. That's a 1-2 punch to the gut - literally. I now am living proof of what I have preached for a very long time - "This is forever. It's a lifestyle change. You can't go back to the way you were before, it won't work."
I am feeling very hypocritical as I prepare to stand before these people tomorrow. Some will be looking for hope, some for inspiration. I plan to give them both and I will be looking for both for me as well. I expect I will find it in stories and struggles that sound startlingly like my own.
Yours in health, Kate
P.S. - I have already been proactive - my brother and I are now training for the Des Moines Marathon 5K. Since I refuse to be slower than I was last year - I guess I have no choice but to skim off some weight and get running again.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Sunny Saturday
There is a patio in my future. I don't know where or if I will be eating or drinking, but I will be sitting outside enjoying the unstoppably beautiful weather at some point today.
This morning I did my run to the farmers market. I was encroaching on being late because I watched too much of the news (good/bad habit of mine) so I debated driving. But then I took a deep drag off the crisp end of summer air and trying jogging down the street. I made 2 miles in 16 minutes, not bad. I didn't really feel like I was running that fast, but apparently I was.
I met up with Lori and her mom and we grabbed the produce for the week - brussel sprouts, potatoes, sweet potatoes, sweet corn, squash (for Lori), honey crisp apples, french beans, and at least two other things I am forgetting. I noted to Lori and Barb on our way to their hotel that the FM basket has gotten heavier as I have gotten healthier. That works out well as it's always up to me to carry it after it hits 10 pounds. Today was pretty close to a record, it easily weighed 20+ pounds, I had to put my hip into it.
Back here at the apartment I did some body weight work on my arms and legs and tons of abs. I have taken to putting the "Abs Diet" book next me me when I am on the mat to remind me of form on certain moves. It's fun. I hope sooner or later to not need the book.
I worked out to Bon Jovi's "New Jersey" disc. I had forgotten how much it was really just fun, plus a couple of good ballads and a couple of rockers, all-in-all, a pretty good workout disc.
When I am done posting, I am headed to the shower, then onto my day. I don't know what it will hold. I am fully prepared to wing it. This is my second day off and as I ran past my office this morning I felt a little pang of guilt. But not enough to go in this weekend, this sunny set of days is all mine.
Yours in health, Kate
This morning I did my run to the farmers market. I was encroaching on being late because I watched too much of the news (good/bad habit of mine) so I debated driving. But then I took a deep drag off the crisp end of summer air and trying jogging down the street. I made 2 miles in 16 minutes, not bad. I didn't really feel like I was running that fast, but apparently I was.
I met up with Lori and her mom and we grabbed the produce for the week - brussel sprouts, potatoes, sweet potatoes, sweet corn, squash (for Lori), honey crisp apples, french beans, and at least two other things I am forgetting. I noted to Lori and Barb on our way to their hotel that the FM basket has gotten heavier as I have gotten healthier. That works out well as it's always up to me to carry it after it hits 10 pounds. Today was pretty close to a record, it easily weighed 20+ pounds, I had to put my hip into it.
Back here at the apartment I did some body weight work on my arms and legs and tons of abs. I have taken to putting the "Abs Diet" book next me me when I am on the mat to remind me of form on certain moves. It's fun. I hope sooner or later to not need the book.
I worked out to Bon Jovi's "New Jersey" disc. I had forgotten how much it was really just fun, plus a couple of good ballads and a couple of rockers, all-in-all, a pretty good workout disc.
When I am done posting, I am headed to the shower, then onto my day. I don't know what it will hold. I am fully prepared to wing it. This is my second day off and as I ran past my office this morning I felt a little pang of guilt. But not enough to go in this weekend, this sunny set of days is all mine.
Yours in health, Kate
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Cooling Down
By the time I hit the street to run yesterday the temp had dropped about five degrees and the humidity by 25%. It was comfortable, in fact, just about perfect to run.
For a couple of days now I have been nursing my back and wondering why I was queasy. As I was stretching yesterday I found my back had improved and realized the problem with my tummy - snot. That's right, mucus.
I used to have allergies pretty badly, but they were yet another health malady that went away as I lost weight. The last two weeks though I have been sneezing again, suffering headaches, and now I realize, getting erpy from post-nasal drip.
That realization, along with the Dixie Chicks' "Sin Wagon" coming on my headset, fired me up. I headed out the door with a vengeance. It was all sprints and hard walks. Half way back the temp cooled another five degrees and the wind started to blow. That was inconvenient as my right shoulder has taken to aching fiercely when it gets too cool. But I sucked it up and kept running. After two days off, there was no way I wasn't going to.
Today is supposed to be even cooler, which is great. As much as my shoulder hurts, it means I can run outside again and do weights and core at home. That saves me gas money, because I don't have to go across town to the gym.
That's one of the things I have been thinking about lately, cooling down means winter will be here before we know it. Last year I missed several workout sessions due to butt-high snow. This year I won't allow that. I need to get some new dumbbells and a stationary bike or something for cardio. Or maybe I will go ultra cheap and just rent a different exercise video every week from the library. That's an interesting thought.
Well, I realize this has been a bit of a rambling post, but I don't think I am awake yet, despite having been up since 2:35 this morning. Anyway, break over, time to work. Have a good day!
Yours in fitness, Kate
For a couple of days now I have been nursing my back and wondering why I was queasy. As I was stretching yesterday I found my back had improved and realized the problem with my tummy - snot. That's right, mucus.
I used to have allergies pretty badly, but they were yet another health malady that went away as I lost weight. The last two weeks though I have been sneezing again, suffering headaches, and now I realize, getting erpy from post-nasal drip.
That realization, along with the Dixie Chicks' "Sin Wagon" coming on my headset, fired me up. I headed out the door with a vengeance. It was all sprints and hard walks. Half way back the temp cooled another five degrees and the wind started to blow. That was inconvenient as my right shoulder has taken to aching fiercely when it gets too cool. But I sucked it up and kept running. After two days off, there was no way I wasn't going to.
Today is supposed to be even cooler, which is great. As much as my shoulder hurts, it means I can run outside again and do weights and core at home. That saves me gas money, because I don't have to go across town to the gym.
That's one of the things I have been thinking about lately, cooling down means winter will be here before we know it. Last year I missed several workout sessions due to butt-high snow. This year I won't allow that. I need to get some new dumbbells and a stationary bike or something for cardio. Or maybe I will go ultra cheap and just rent a different exercise video every week from the library. That's an interesting thought.
Well, I realize this has been a bit of a rambling post, but I don't think I am awake yet, despite having been up since 2:35 this morning. Anyway, break over, time to work. Have a good day!
Yours in fitness, Kate
Friday, August 29, 2008
A Day Full of Workouts
Running way too short on time.
Just FYI -
Workout #1 - With trainer Traci. (Headed there now.)
Workout #2 - Going for brief run while clothes wash at laundromat.
Workout #3 - Trying a fitness pole dancing class tonight.
Will tell you about 1 & 3 tomorrow.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Just FYI -
Workout #1 - With trainer Traci. (Headed there now.)
Workout #2 - Going for brief run while clothes wash at laundromat.
Workout #3 - Trying a fitness pole dancing class tonight.
Will tell you about 1 & 3 tomorrow.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Get Outside
I know I preached about making the most of good weather yesterday, but dang, it was so nice. I just starting walking, then running. I didn't have a plan, I just stepped out the door at work and went.
The next thing you know I am down at Principal Park (Home of the division winning Iowa Cubs!) and I decide to make the turn to Gray's Lake. I've mentioned before that the lake is this precious jewel in the middle of my very urban city, but today it was especially cool.
As I ran through the park there were butterflies everywhere working their way through the freshly regrown brush. The park was, as usual, overrun by water during June's floods. It was left devastated and filthy. The Des Moines Parks and Rec employees and countless volunteers have brought it back in an amazing way.
Well, the butterflies were joined by a myriad of grasshoppers. The birds were singing, the crickets creaking and the water bright blue from the reflection of the sky. I stopped a couple of times, just to take it all in. The coolest thing was the blue heron I saw. He was just standing in shallow river water near the other bank of the Raccoon River. In fact I have never seen a blue heron that was so blue. I stood and watch him for a few minutes while he preened and caught bugs, I loved it.
Today looks to be perfect again and while I had vowed not to run two days in a row, I can't imagine not taking advantage of the weather. Especially since it's my parents anniversary. Why is that significant? Because that means it's August 26th, just a few days from September. The earliest recorded snowfall in state history happened in September! LOL. Probably not this year, but still, got to make the most of it.
I'm gonna get outside again. Not just because it's nice, but as you can see from above, it's also a nice mental break.
Yours in fitness, Kate
The next thing you know I am down at Principal Park (Home of the division winning Iowa Cubs!) and I decide to make the turn to Gray's Lake. I've mentioned before that the lake is this precious jewel in the middle of my very urban city, but today it was especially cool.
As I ran through the park there were butterflies everywhere working their way through the freshly regrown brush. The park was, as usual, overrun by water during June's floods. It was left devastated and filthy. The Des Moines Parks and Rec employees and countless volunteers have brought it back in an amazing way.
Well, the butterflies were joined by a myriad of grasshoppers. The birds were singing, the crickets creaking and the water bright blue from the reflection of the sky. I stopped a couple of times, just to take it all in. The coolest thing was the blue heron I saw. He was just standing in shallow river water near the other bank of the Raccoon River. In fact I have never seen a blue heron that was so blue. I stood and watch him for a few minutes while he preened and caught bugs, I loved it.
Today looks to be perfect again and while I had vowed not to run two days in a row, I can't imagine not taking advantage of the weather. Especially since it's my parents anniversary. Why is that significant? Because that means it's August 26th, just a few days from September. The earliest recorded snowfall in state history happened in September! LOL. Probably not this year, but still, got to make the most of it.
I'm gonna get outside again. Not just because it's nice, but as you can see from above, it's also a nice mental break.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Yes, but can you run it off?
So, I went on that little, "You can't walk it off" rant about the Iowa State Fair the other day. I stand by it because the average person is not getting anywhere near 'burning off' speed when it comes to walking the fairgrounds.
On the other hand, today I went to the fair again. This time I trollied from work to the state capitol. Then I ran from the capitol to the fairgrounds - 2.88 miles according to Mapquest. I ran it in 25 minutes, which is 8.68 minutes per mile. That all equates into about 347 calories being burned.
Then at the state fair I splurged and had a caramel apple. (Stress the apple to make me feel better.) That's about 330 calories. (Damn that caramel.) Therefore I immediately wasted what I had just done. Sad but true.
But wait, Kate reprieves herself by the way she got back to the office. I took the shuttle back to the capitol, because the sidewalks suck on East Grand or honestly I would have run back. Then I ran from the capitol back to my office, 2.10 miles in about 18 minutes. That equates to about 250 more calories burned. Phew, dodged that bullet. :)
Tee-hee. I am a naughty monkey.
Yours in fitness, Kate
On the other hand, today I went to the fair again. This time I trollied from work to the state capitol. Then I ran from the capitol to the fairgrounds - 2.88 miles according to Mapquest. I ran it in 25 minutes, which is 8.68 minutes per mile. That all equates into about 347 calories being burned.
Then at the state fair I splurged and had a caramel apple. (Stress the apple to make me feel better.) That's about 330 calories. (Damn that caramel.) Therefore I immediately wasted what I had just done. Sad but true.
But wait, Kate reprieves herself by the way she got back to the office. I took the shuttle back to the capitol, because the sidewalks suck on East Grand or honestly I would have run back. Then I ran from the capitol back to my office, 2.10 miles in about 18 minutes. That equates to about 250 more calories burned. Phew, dodged that bullet. :)
Tee-hee. I am a naughty monkey.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Monday, June 30, 2008
Ready for a Workout
Friday I put in a hardcore workout, lots of cardio, core and weights. Learned once and for all that my Achilles and doing killer cardio on the elliptical DO NOT MIX. It has ended up aching again. There is also a better than average chance that the convention I helped coordinate for 20 hours straight on Saturday may have taken some toll as well.
That convention is why I did not get in a workout on Saturday or Sunday. Saturday I was on my feet, moving for most of the time at the Iowa Events Center. I lost track of exactly how much walking I did. But I know I only sat for maybe 3 hours all day. Of course, as usual when I get busy, I didn't eat as well as I should have.
Then yesterday I was exhausted, so getting up and going to the gym was out. But the real reason I didn't even try to go yesterday was the feeling that my calves, especially my right one, had been put through a shredder. I don't know is that was purely from spending a whole day on concrete floors or if it had combined with Friday's workout. Whatever the reason, they were quite painful. In fact today they are still kind of bothering me.
And yet, that is not going to stop me from walking out of the office in 5 minutes and going to the gym. I am going to change, run/walk outside (depending on what my calves say) and do weights/core. Maybe it will clear my head. Maybe it will make me less restless. Man I hope so.
Yours in fitness, Kate
That convention is why I did not get in a workout on Saturday or Sunday. Saturday I was on my feet, moving for most of the time at the Iowa Events Center. I lost track of exactly how much walking I did. But I know I only sat for maybe 3 hours all day. Of course, as usual when I get busy, I didn't eat as well as I should have.
Then yesterday I was exhausted, so getting up and going to the gym was out. But the real reason I didn't even try to go yesterday was the feeling that my calves, especially my right one, had been put through a shredder. I don't know is that was purely from spending a whole day on concrete floors or if it had combined with Friday's workout. Whatever the reason, they were quite painful. In fact today they are still kind of bothering me.
And yet, that is not going to stop me from walking out of the office in 5 minutes and going to the gym. I am going to change, run/walk outside (depending on what my calves say) and do weights/core. Maybe it will clear my head. Maybe it will make me less restless. Man I hope so.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Workout Buddy
I am usually a solo act when it comes to working out. I put on my Creative Zen and get into the zone. It doesn't matter whether I am running, lifting or crunching, as I have noted before, music makes everything better.
So, when my friend Tim suggested we run together I said yes, but in my head I was unsure. I wasn't positive I could run the 4+ mile route he was proposing without my tunes. But he and I have been talking about doing something together for months and our schedules meshed up, I didn't want to say no.
And, it was fun. We chatted and I got to know him a little better. We have been working together for 5 and a half years now, but you don't always have the meaningful talks over the water cooler. Once again I was struck how exercise is the greatest therapist ever. It's an equalizer and makes people say things they are normally to guarded to divulge. Which just gave me the thought that the next guy I date will have to workout with me early in the relationship so we can strip away the b.s. from go.
Anyway, while I don't plan to make the twosome run a frequent habit, once in a while, I think it's nice. And I will say, for anyone who is just starting out - it can be a nice motivator to know that someone is waiting for you. Whether you don't want to let them down or it's great conversation potential that puts you in the mood, a buddy can be a wonderful tool.
Yours in fitness, Kate
So, when my friend Tim suggested we run together I said yes, but in my head I was unsure. I wasn't positive I could run the 4+ mile route he was proposing without my tunes. But he and I have been talking about doing something together for months and our schedules meshed up, I didn't want to say no.
And, it was fun. We chatted and I got to know him a little better. We have been working together for 5 and a half years now, but you don't always have the meaningful talks over the water cooler. Once again I was struck how exercise is the greatest therapist ever. It's an equalizer and makes people say things they are normally to guarded to divulge. Which just gave me the thought that the next guy I date will have to workout with me early in the relationship so we can strip away the b.s. from go.
Anyway, while I don't plan to make the twosome run a frequent habit, once in a while, I think it's nice. And I will say, for anyone who is just starting out - it can be a nice motivator to know that someone is waiting for you. Whether you don't want to let them down or it's great conversation potential that puts you in the mood, a buddy can be a wonderful tool.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Running
I just ran two miles in 18 minutes. I walked two miles at noon. Now it's on to the gym for weights and core.
That's all I have right now because I am sweating on my keyboard. (Work would frown on my killing it.)
Yours in fitness, Kate
That's all I have right now because I am sweating on my keyboard. (Work would frown on my killing it.)
Yours in fitness, Kate
Friday, May 2, 2008
Apparently I was too busy
Sorry. I just noticed that I didn't post yesterday. I was in work mode in the morning and then at noon my exercise kicked in.
Noon - Walking club with Chandler - 1.8 miles
Back to work
3 p.m. - Decide to run 4.25 miles (goal is to go from work to look at a house for sale on 35th to hospital to see friend's baby)
5:30 p.m. - Walking club with Chandler - 1.8 miles
That middle part, that's the important one.
When I set out I simply needed to complete the 4.25 miles in an hour, so I could get up to the hospital by 4 p.m. to see the baby. I thought o.k., I can do that easily, even if I become uninspired by running and decide to walk.
Oh, no not me. I am so competitive against myself. I am at the end of mile one and I think, "Damn you're slow! If you are going to do this, you better pull it together." I pick-up the pace. I finish the first leg, to the house, in 22 minutes, it was 2.1 miles, so just under 11 minute miles. I am happy, I know I am going to make it to the hospital on time.
I look around the outside of the house, which is kind of small and needs some TLC, for about 2.5 minutes. The neighbor kid is staring at me as I pant and sweat profusely on the sidewalk. I figure that second wave of 'hello' is a heads up that he may call the police because I am freaking him out. So I start running again.
Something in me says, let's see if we can do this faster, run longer, really push it. Or maybe it was someone in me and if it is, can she please beat the crap out of my evil voice Luci? Because if push-yourself girl can make me run 9 minutes miles, I am pretty sure she can also take the queen of the sugar craving.
So, I did it. 4.25 miles in 40 minutes. I was floored and thrilled. Basically 9.5 minute miles. Heck yea!
Perfect timing too. I don't have time to workout today because of work, doing somebody a favor and helping coordinate a fundraiser tonight. My body can use the day to recover though. It did almost 8 miles yesterday, for me, that's a lot. YEA!
Yours in fitness, Kate
Noon - Walking club with Chandler - 1.8 miles
Back to work
3 p.m. - Decide to run 4.25 miles (goal is to go from work to look at a house for sale on 35th to hospital to see friend's baby)
5:30 p.m. - Walking club with Chandler - 1.8 miles
That middle part, that's the important one.
When I set out I simply needed to complete the 4.25 miles in an hour, so I could get up to the hospital by 4 p.m. to see the baby. I thought o.k., I can do that easily, even if I become uninspired by running and decide to walk.
Oh, no not me. I am so competitive against myself. I am at the end of mile one and I think, "Damn you're slow! If you are going to do this, you better pull it together." I pick-up the pace. I finish the first leg, to the house, in 22 minutes, it was 2.1 miles, so just under 11 minute miles. I am happy, I know I am going to make it to the hospital on time.
I look around the outside of the house, which is kind of small and needs some TLC, for about 2.5 minutes. The neighbor kid is staring at me as I pant and sweat profusely on the sidewalk. I figure that second wave of 'hello' is a heads up that he may call the police because I am freaking him out. So I start running again.
Something in me says, let's see if we can do this faster, run longer, really push it. Or maybe it was someone in me and if it is, can she please beat the crap out of my evil voice Luci? Because if push-yourself girl can make me run 9 minutes miles, I am pretty sure she can also take the queen of the sugar craving.
So, I did it. 4.25 miles in 40 minutes. I was floored and thrilled. Basically 9.5 minute miles. Heck yea!
Perfect timing too. I don't have time to workout today because of work, doing somebody a favor and helping coordinate a fundraiser tonight. My body can use the day to recover though. It did almost 8 miles yesterday, for me, that's a lot. YEA!
Yours in fitness, Kate
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Running Shoes and Concrete Floors
Just a note - the best running shoes in the world will not offset concrete floors at the end of a 13 hour day. Naturally, I am one of the few fools who knows this. On Saturday I helped manage a convention at Valley High School, so I didn't get to workout.
But that's weirdly o.k. because from the moment I walked in the door at 8 a.m. to the moment I walked out the door at 9 p.m., I was moving. My job at conventions is always three fold - a. put out fires, b. organize chaos, c. delegate and direct. Oh wait, make that four fold - d. do it my damn self when c doesn't work.
If you think I am complaining, oddly, I am not. I actually enjoy days like Saturday, it's an adrenaline rush to continually have to keep a line on a million swirling parts. And when everyone walks away under their own power, tired, but on their own, you have been successful.
But at the end of that 13 hours I was wiped. My every joint hurt from walking and/or running in too small a space on too hard a floor. I have no idea how I organized these things when I weighed 260 pounds. I did though. It's amazing how passion can so easily override good sense. ;)
On Sunday I was still too exhausted and sore to get to the gym, so I took another day off. That meant three days out of the gym. I felt guilty, still do.
Oh well, I went back yesterday and hit it hard. Today I have already done walking club once at noon. I am going to walk home now and do some strength stuff and then take a run. Then I will come back to see if anyone is going to do walking club at 5:30. And so, I am back on track, with my running shoes on concrete streets.
Your in fitness, Kate
But that's weirdly o.k. because from the moment I walked in the door at 8 a.m. to the moment I walked out the door at 9 p.m., I was moving. My job at conventions is always three fold - a. put out fires, b. organize chaos, c. delegate and direct. Oh wait, make that four fold - d. do it my damn self when c doesn't work.
If you think I am complaining, oddly, I am not. I actually enjoy days like Saturday, it's an adrenaline rush to continually have to keep a line on a million swirling parts. And when everyone walks away under their own power, tired, but on their own, you have been successful.
But at the end of that 13 hours I was wiped. My every joint hurt from walking and/or running in too small a space on too hard a floor. I have no idea how I organized these things when I weighed 260 pounds. I did though. It's amazing how passion can so easily override good sense. ;)
On Sunday I was still too exhausted and sore to get to the gym, so I took another day off. That meant three days out of the gym. I felt guilty, still do.
Oh well, I went back yesterday and hit it hard. Today I have already done walking club once at noon. I am going to walk home now and do some strength stuff and then take a run. Then I will come back to see if anyone is going to do walking club at 5:30. And so, I am back on track, with my running shoes on concrete streets.
Your in fitness, Kate
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Some Spring in my Step
My day started at 3 a.m. yesterday, as usual. The twist was as I sat down to eat my cereal thunder rolled in bringing driving rain and sending my poor girl-cat, Charlie, under the bed. Even my boy cats hunkered close to the floor. That's when I figured it would be another day stuck inside the gym.
Don't get me wrong, I love my gym, but I love to be outdoors too.
Well, just before noon the clouds parted and it warmed up. So, when no one showed up for walking club, I hit the streets running. It was beautiful and perfect and I loved it. That is despite being downtown and sucking car fumes here and there.
Today is another glorious day and I will run outside again. I actually workout harder when I get to do it outside. I have no idea why, but yesterday I ran two mile in under 18 minutes - for me, that is WAY fast. Maybe it's simply the fresh air. Breathe in and enjoy.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Don't get me wrong, I love my gym, but I love to be outdoors too.
Well, just before noon the clouds parted and it warmed up. So, when no one showed up for walking club, I hit the streets running. It was beautiful and perfect and I loved it. That is despite being downtown and sucking car fumes here and there.
Today is another glorious day and I will run outside again. I actually workout harder when I get to do it outside. I have no idea why, but yesterday I ran two mile in under 18 minutes - for me, that is WAY fast. Maybe it's simply the fresh air. Breathe in and enjoy.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Funny Article About Running
Read Here.
It's tongue in cheek, sort of. ;) I've seen these people and you know you have too. In fact, long before I read this article and the descriptions, I vowed never to look spastic running. I try my best to look 'athletic' instead, like I actually know what the hell I am doing. Hey, the key phrase there is TRY.
Here's me trying in the 5K last October. What do you think?
Yours in fitness, Kate
It's tongue in cheek, sort of. ;) I've seen these people and you know you have too. In fact, long before I read this article and the descriptions, I vowed never to look spastic running. I try my best to look 'athletic' instead, like I actually know what the hell I am doing. Hey, the key phrase there is TRY.
Here's me trying in the 5K last October. What do you think?
Yours in fitness, Kate
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Sunday Inspiration - 4/6/08
It's Sunday and as usual, I have been busier than I probably should be. (Something about this being a day of rest...)
Yesterday I ran the route for the AIDS Run/Walk. I wanted to try it to see if I would survive well enough next week to make an appearance an hour later at Hy-Vee Hall. I did. In fact, I ran it in 34 minutes flat! The 34 is impressive for three reasons: 1. Last fall on an almost completely flat course I ran 36:19; 2. I have run 5Ks on the treadmill recently at 34:40 and 34:20, and I only threw in a few inclines; 3. The time is astounding because there were hills! Not little inclines on the treadmill, honest to God Iowa mountains!
Now, before anyone calls me on that, of course I am exaggerating on the 'mountains'. But damn, there was one hill I didn't even attempt to run, I simply walked it. Overall, it was an amazing challenge. I am glad I did it. And barring rain or snow, I'll do it again next weekend.
The other thing about Sunday around here is inspiration...
I went looking for inspiration and I have found it for you. Her name is Jessica and she has lost 140 pounds over the past 6 years. She has done it the right way - eating right and exercising. She is as adamant against 'magic pills' and surgery as I am. She agrees that it is a lifestyle change that makes for permanent weight loss and nothing else.
Here you can check out Jessica's Blog.
On Tuesday I will show you my version of computer generated 'before' and 'after' pics inspired by the ones on her page. While I do not believe I am done with my body yet, the pics really woke me up AND made me happy with where I am.
Yours in health, Kate
Yesterday I ran the route for the AIDS Run/Walk. I wanted to try it to see if I would survive well enough next week to make an appearance an hour later at Hy-Vee Hall. I did. In fact, I ran it in 34 minutes flat! The 34 is impressive for three reasons: 1. Last fall on an almost completely flat course I ran 36:19; 2. I have run 5Ks on the treadmill recently at 34:40 and 34:20, and I only threw in a few inclines; 3. The time is astounding because there were hills! Not little inclines on the treadmill, honest to God Iowa mountains!
Now, before anyone calls me on that, of course I am exaggerating on the 'mountains'. But damn, there was one hill I didn't even attempt to run, I simply walked it. Overall, it was an amazing challenge. I am glad I did it. And barring rain or snow, I'll do it again next weekend.
The other thing about Sunday around here is inspiration...
I went looking for inspiration and I have found it for you. Her name is Jessica and she has lost 140 pounds over the past 6 years. She has done it the right way - eating right and exercising. She is as adamant against 'magic pills' and surgery as I am. She agrees that it is a lifestyle change that makes for permanent weight loss and nothing else.
Here you can check out Jessica's Blog.
On Tuesday I will show you my version of computer generated 'before' and 'after' pics inspired by the ones on her page. While I do not believe I am done with my body yet, the pics really woke me up AND made me happy with where I am.
Yours in health, Kate
Saturday, March 29, 2008
5 miles
First, a gym update: My membership/endorsement deal through work with Fitness World West expired this week. However, I like the gym (and trainer Traci) so much, I have re-upped on my own. So, for at least the next year you will continue to hear me reference FWW.
Now, those five miles. I missed working out yesterday, my schedule just wouldn't squeeze out time. So, after two days off from the gym, I went in with every intention of a good run and workout.
Once again I stepped on the treadmill and went beyond my planned distance. I did my warm-up walk, started to run and kept running. I ran for 20 minutes and then walked for one and then ran for another 15. At that point I had run a 5K and walked most of the rest of 4 miles. So I decided to run another 5 minutes and then train for hills with a hard walk. I ended up working out for an hour total and did exactly 5 miles. It was weird timing. That means I averaged a 12 minutes mile, not too shabby.
Afterward however, my legs informed me they needed extra stretching and water and that weights and abs would have to wait until tomorrow. You know, I can accept that, because my body did an awesome job of taking me through five miles! That's at least 1/2 mile further than I have ever gone (on purpose) before.
As you know, running isn't my 'ultimate' thing, I have yet to figure out what that might be. But I do know I love the way I feel after. Not only do I feel great mentally at the accomplishment, but physically I am exhilarated, even if I am exhausted.
Tomorrow though, it's easy on the cardio, hit the weights and abs hard. And I am looking forward to that too.
Yours in fitness, Kate
Now, those five miles. I missed working out yesterday, my schedule just wouldn't squeeze out time. So, after two days off from the gym, I went in with every intention of a good run and workout.
Once again I stepped on the treadmill and went beyond my planned distance. I did my warm-up walk, started to run and kept running. I ran for 20 minutes and then walked for one and then ran for another 15. At that point I had run a 5K and walked most of the rest of 4 miles. So I decided to run another 5 minutes and then train for hills with a hard walk. I ended up working out for an hour total and did exactly 5 miles. It was weird timing. That means I averaged a 12 minutes mile, not too shabby.
Afterward however, my legs informed me they needed extra stretching and water and that weights and abs would have to wait until tomorrow. You know, I can accept that, because my body did an awesome job of taking me through five miles! That's at least 1/2 mile further than I have ever gone (on purpose) before.
As you know, running isn't my 'ultimate' thing, I have yet to figure out what that might be. But I do know I love the way I feel after. Not only do I feel great mentally at the accomplishment, but physically I am exhilarated, even if I am exhausted.
Tomorrow though, it's easy on the cardio, hit the weights and abs hard. And I am looking forward to that too.
Yours in fitness, Kate
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