As I stated in a previous post, I am basically just basebuilding/regaining fitness after an injury (I hate that word)! I am not following any specific plan, but running by feel. Mentally, I have a schedule in my head that I would like to follow, but have freedom to strike the schedule if I feel the need. I did awake in the morning rather early to run (5:00 a.m.). My body was stiffer than normal, so I decided to arrange my work schedule to run in the afternoon. Bad decision, as the a.m. produced a temperature of ~66F, while 3:00 p.m. brought about 91F. Needless to say, the tempo run got nixed, but I ran a really hilly course and pushed the uphill portions, sometimes even repeating the hills that I encountered. I feel the workout in my legs today. I estimate that I was pushing the uphill portion at ~6:40 pace or so.
In the past, if I had a tough workout scheduled, I would make SURE that I did it that day, even if I didn't feel so good. A good friend and 2:30 marathoner advised me to run more by feel and take the easy days - easy! The approach seems to be working, as my running seems fun again!
On another note, our previous Church in Tennessee (Germantown Baptist Church) sponsored two of our friends to be missionaries in Eldoret, Kenya. They came over for dinner last night and brought me a book, Run to Win - The training secrets of the Kenyan Runner. It was written by Jurg Wirz. Also, they had previously asked for clothing donations, etc. They know that I run and have somewhat of a shoe fetish. In the past year, I have sent them ~15 pair of Nike running shoes. Sure, they have a few miles on them, but appear to be brand new and the children who have nothing think they are the greatest gifts ever. Imagine, I am providing (possible) Olympians/Nat. Champs with running shoes at an early age. Wow! Our friends operate an orphanage and are opening two schools in the near future. Observing photographs and hearing stories about life in Kenya really makes me appreciate just how good the majority of us here in the U.S. have it. Be thankful!
P.S. I hope that the reading of the book will produce some new PR's. If so, I will happily share said secrets! Run Well! | 