Today was a very "Monday" Monday, so when hubby asked about dinner I felt lazy and said , "Fresh Choice?" Plus, I had a coupon. So, when he got home, we piled in my Sentra and headed to the Land of Salad Bars. We had just left our townhouse complex when I said, "Aw man." Hubby asked why and I told him I left the coupon at home. We both said in unison, "It's too late. We've gone too far."
After I had eaten my salad, I headed to carb corner (also known as pasta, potato, and bread section). As I spooned some mac and cheese in a bowl something seemed different. There were the usual signs above the foods, but what was that writing below "Yankee Doodle Mac and Cheese." Wait? Is it telling me the fat and calories? I ran over to the pizza section--140 calories for a square? One little square? I could eat 4 of those. I think in the past I have eaten 4 of those.
Ok, so yeah, we knew this day was coming: restaurants displaying the nutritional values. Fresh Choice is just ahead of the curve (or regulations---whatever comes first). Ordinarily, I would think this is a good thing--a step in the right direction of a healthy America and lowering obesity rates. But tonight I didn't want to know how many calories were in that hunk of bread pudding.
So this brings me to the long overdue Food Post.
In my just slightly over a year blogging, I have avoided this topic. Why? Because being consistent with eating well is perhaps even tougher than triathlon training.
I wish that I could be someone who looks at food as just fuel for the body and eat nuts and spinach and high in omega 3 or good fat fishes. I mean, I do try to eat my veggies and fruit but eating well is something I have struggled with my whole life. I love food. I love chocolate, cheese, bread, meats! I crave that pint of Fat Tire after a triathlon. All of it. I have tried a couple eating plans--best success with weight watchers, but the group meetings became a bit much--too much talk about feelings and leaders with no personalities. I did the special k diet the summer I got married (though that is kind of cheating because motivation increases with impending nuptials). I keep trying to do Special K, but all that cereal is kinda tiresome. I have never tried Atkins or South Beach. I know what my problem is--I just need to eat. Less. And Move. More.
I think what my problem is that I think that everything needs to change all at what: diet and exercise. So then I go all in and try to keep up with a crazy new work out plan and eating less carbs and more proteins and veggies. I last about two days because it seems overwhelming and hopeless. And then I say, "Screw it." And buy a slice of chocolate cake from Safeway for dessert to share with Hubby and skip my workout.
So, right now I am going to focus more on the moving. Last week I exercies 5 out of 7 days (last time I did that was probably August!). As I continue to workout like this, I will be mindful of what I eat, and then probably late next week I will step back and examine my eating and how I can fuel my body the right way.
Darn you Fresh Choice.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Out of My Comfort Zone
Yesterday I had to decide between running a 10 mile race in San Juan Bautista or joining some friends for a casual run in Aptos. Here was my thought process in choosing:
1) I was pretty antsy to run my first race of 2009
2) It would be nice to see Coach Heidi at the trail run
3) Can you really say "no" to a 10 am race start time
4) Going over highway 17 in this weather was not appealing
5) Neither was forking over 25 bucks for a race entry fee
In end I chose the trail run because of the money and it would be easier than 10 miles.
I thought wrong.
Right before I left for my run I went to the garage to put my shoes on. I didn't see my trail running shoes and had a slight feeling that I probably should wear them (the facebook event invite was titled "muddy trails await" but the shoes were all the way upstairs which seemed to far. Only now do I see the irony of being too lazy to get my shoes upstairs before I go on a run.
So, I put on my lovely new pink asics and headed off. I didn't have breakfast, so I stopped by McDonald's for a small coffee and egg mcmuffin sans Canadian bacon (I know! I know! I think it is time for a nutrition blog entry) and headed for Aptos.
We met at a place where you can access a trail at Nicsene Marks. I hugged Coach Heidi as I was excited to see her and we were off. Once we hit the trail i thought to myself, "Holy crap Jill. What did you get yourself into?"
It was straight downhill and super muddy. It was my--a super klutz with balance issues--worst nightmare. I took a deep breath and concentrated on every step of my run. We were running for about 3 minutes when we hit a creek that we had to run across. I followed my friend Gina's lead and bounced across rocks in the creek, trying to make it seem like I knew what I was doing. I pretended I was an REI model and my trek was all part of a photo shoot to sell trail running skirts. Except I don't think America's Next Trail Runner Model would step right into the deep part of the creek soaking her new shoes.
So, running through muddy trails is probably one of the most challenging things I have done. Usually running is a time for me to shut my brain off and listen to some awesomely crappy songs in the privacy of my mp3. But with trail running, you have to concentrate on everything. The trail, your stride, other runners, critters--everything! I haven't concentrated this hard since beating Ganon in the Legend of Zelda Wind Waker. I was definitely out of my comfort zone.
I was wheezing and sliding and after 50 minutes we turned around. Then the inevitable happened: I bit it. I wasn't careful in a step and then woosh---I was sliding down a ravine. Luckily the mud was pretty thick and my sliding was slow so I was able to stretch my arm far enough to reach coach Heidi's husband hand. But as I tried to step up it got super slippy. It all happened in slow motion and part of me felt like I should just keep sliding. But then I looked down thought two things: "hmmm, that is kinda far down. Not quite sure how I would get back up." And: "Dude, didn't this happen to Kate on Lost when they were running in the jungle away from an Arctic bear or smoke monster thingy?"
Luckily the guys pulled me up and I thanked them profusely. We continued my run and I realized that I was super muddy--and it was kind of a cool feeling. I still can't believe people do crazy 50 mile trail runs.
After the run, I went to my car and drove home. On the drive I though about how important it is for me to get out of my comfort zone in my training. It is challenging and it increases my skills as well as boosts my confidence in myself as an athlete---something I have been lacking in the last couple of months.
I think training season has officially begun.
1) I was pretty antsy to run my first race of 2009
2) It would be nice to see Coach Heidi at the trail run
3) Can you really say "no" to a 10 am race start time
4) Going over highway 17 in this weather was not appealing
5) Neither was forking over 25 bucks for a race entry fee
In end I chose the trail run because of the money and it would be easier than 10 miles.
I thought wrong.
Right before I left for my run I went to the garage to put my shoes on. I didn't see my trail running shoes and had a slight feeling that I probably should wear them (the facebook event invite was titled "muddy trails await" but the shoes were all the way upstairs which seemed to far. Only now do I see the irony of being too lazy to get my shoes upstairs before I go on a run.
So, I put on my lovely new pink asics and headed off. I didn't have breakfast, so I stopped by McDonald's for a small coffee and egg mcmuffin sans Canadian bacon (I know! I know! I think it is time for a nutrition blog entry) and headed for Aptos.
We met at a place where you can access a trail at Nicsene Marks. I hugged Coach Heidi as I was excited to see her and we were off. Once we hit the trail i thought to myself, "Holy crap Jill. What did you get yourself into?"
It was straight downhill and super muddy. It was my--a super klutz with balance issues--worst nightmare. I took a deep breath and concentrated on every step of my run. We were running for about 3 minutes when we hit a creek that we had to run across. I followed my friend Gina's lead and bounced across rocks in the creek, trying to make it seem like I knew what I was doing. I pretended I was an REI model and my trek was all part of a photo shoot to sell trail running skirts. Except I don't think America's Next Trail Runner Model would step right into the deep part of the creek soaking her new shoes.
So, running through muddy trails is probably one of the most challenging things I have done. Usually running is a time for me to shut my brain off and listen to some awesomely crappy songs in the privacy of my mp3. But with trail running, you have to concentrate on everything. The trail, your stride, other runners, critters--everything! I haven't concentrated this hard since beating Ganon in the Legend of Zelda Wind Waker. I was definitely out of my comfort zone.
I was wheezing and sliding and after 50 minutes we turned around. Then the inevitable happened: I bit it. I wasn't careful in a step and then woosh---I was sliding down a ravine. Luckily the mud was pretty thick and my sliding was slow so I was able to stretch my arm far enough to reach coach Heidi's husband hand. But as I tried to step up it got super slippy. It all happened in slow motion and part of me felt like I should just keep sliding. But then I looked down thought two things: "hmmm, that is kinda far down. Not quite sure how I would get back up." And: "Dude, didn't this happen to Kate on Lost when they were running in the jungle away from an Arctic bear or smoke monster thingy?"
Luckily the guys pulled me up and I thanked them profusely. We continued my run and I realized that I was super muddy--and it was kind of a cool feeling. I still can't believe people do crazy 50 mile trail runs.
After the run, I went to my car and drove home. On the drive I though about how important it is for me to get out of my comfort zone in my training. It is challenging and it increases my skills as well as boosts my confidence in myself as an athlete---something I have been lacking in the last couple of months.
I think training season has officially begun.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Stuff I Dig (AKA : so this is where my money went)
Last summer Runner's World featured a whole spread on running skirts. They had various reviews, a bio of the founder of SkirtSports, and articles from runners who were for or against running skirts. There were actually a few letters from readers in the issues following the spread either ranting or raving on running skirts. Some argued that running isn't about looking pretty, and if you wear a skirt you aren't taken seriously. Some swore by running skirts being super comfy and flattering.
And what are my thoughts on running skirts?
Um...I just did a tally in my head and I own 7.
I guess I am pro skirt.
I know---7! I am a little embarrassed at this number. But in truth, they aren't all running skirts. One is for triathlons and another is for cycling. I just got running skirt number 7 from Athleta.com (if you haven't visited their site, go now! They have cute, cute, cute clothes!). This skirt is different from the others because instead of little shorties underneath, it has capris, so it is perfect for colder weather. My favorite running skirts are actually made by Target---crazy, huh? I love them as they are comfortable (not too snug and not too loose), the shorts don't ride up, there is a pocket for key/cash/id, and they are cheap (I don't think I paid more than 20 bucks for either of them).
I love running skirts because there is something playful about running in a skirt. It reminds me of recess and wearing shorts under my dresses so I could play on the jungle gym. There is also a lot more freedom of movement with the skirts.
Plus, I am totally a girly-girl when it comes to workout stuff. Some girls dream about taffeta layers on wedding dresses and strappy manolos. Me? I love flowery cycling jerseys and the color pink. I am a little obsessed with pink---but more as an accent color. I have pink handlebars, a pink ankle road id, pink yoga headband and mat, and (new!) white and pink Asics Gt-2130s!
Why do I love the girly stuff? I think it is partially because some of the stuff associated with triathlons can get rather grueling and pink is a reminder too not take things too seriously and just have fun.
And what are my thoughts on running skirts?
Um...I just did a tally in my head and I own 7.
I guess I am pro skirt.
I know---7! I am a little embarrassed at this number. But in truth, they aren't all running skirts. One is for triathlons and another is for cycling. I just got running skirt number 7 from Athleta.com (if you haven't visited their site, go now! They have cute, cute, cute clothes!). This skirt is different from the others because instead of little shorties underneath, it has capris, so it is perfect for colder weather. My favorite running skirts are actually made by Target---crazy, huh? I love them as they are comfortable (not too snug and not too loose), the shorts don't ride up, there is a pocket for key/cash/id, and they are cheap (I don't think I paid more than 20 bucks for either of them).
I love running skirts because there is something playful about running in a skirt. It reminds me of recess and wearing shorts under my dresses so I could play on the jungle gym. There is also a lot more freedom of movement with the skirts.
Plus, I am totally a girly-girl when it comes to workout stuff. Some girls dream about taffeta layers on wedding dresses and strappy manolos. Me? I love flowery cycling jerseys and the color pink. I am a little obsessed with pink---but more as an accent color. I have pink handlebars, a pink ankle road id, pink yoga headband and mat, and (new!) white and pink Asics Gt-2130s!
Why do I love the girly stuff? I think it is partially because some of the stuff associated with triathlons can get rather grueling and pink is a reminder too not take things too seriously and just have fun.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Change of Plans
So, my whole plan of starting a 5 week half marathon training program was not the smartest idea. I did manage to run 8 miles last Sunday---which felt good---but running 5 miles on Tuesday and Thursday did not seem feasible. Here is my new plan:
I downloaded Ryan Hall's 10 week half-marathon training plan from Runnersworld.com. The plan outlines each day what you are supposed to do and there seems to be a lot of variety to hold my interest. I decided to scratch the Kaiser half-marathon because driving all the way to the city just to turn back after did not seem appealing. My goal is to beat last year's time for the Mermaid Half-Marathon. This year's race is on March 22nd which is a good amount of time for me to get back into shape in a smart way.
I also would like to improve my 10k time on the way and am planning on doing the 10k race in Campbell on Valentines Day. I have done that race before and know the trail very well.
Other plans:
1) Use my 24 Hour Fitness Membership: I will try to make more of an effort to do yoga, pilates, and spinning on my cross-training days
2) Cycle on the weekend day that I don't have a long run. I cycled with some Mermaid friends yesterday and it was a gorgeous day. I really want to get stronger on the bike and need to get more time in the saddle this winter. Plus, I think it may be time for aerobars ---those kind of scare me.
3) Core training: I will do more core work and also arm work as I tend to neglect those parts in my training.
4) I will also check out an intro to masters swimming class at one of the community centers in February. Our pool will be heated in March, so this may be a good jump start to getting back into the water.
5) I still want to learn to surf. Don't know when that will happen though.
I downloaded Ryan Hall's 10 week half-marathon training plan from Runnersworld.com. The plan outlines each day what you are supposed to do and there seems to be a lot of variety to hold my interest. I decided to scratch the Kaiser half-marathon because driving all the way to the city just to turn back after did not seem appealing. My goal is to beat last year's time for the Mermaid Half-Marathon. This year's race is on March 22nd which is a good amount of time for me to get back into shape in a smart way.
I also would like to improve my 10k time on the way and am planning on doing the 10k race in Campbell on Valentines Day. I have done that race before and know the trail very well.
Other plans:
1) Use my 24 Hour Fitness Membership: I will try to make more of an effort to do yoga, pilates, and spinning on my cross-training days
2) Cycle on the weekend day that I don't have a long run. I cycled with some Mermaid friends yesterday and it was a gorgeous day. I really want to get stronger on the bike and need to get more time in the saddle this winter. Plus, I think it may be time for aerobars ---those kind of scare me.
3) Core training: I will do more core work and also arm work as I tend to neglect those parts in my training.
4) I will also check out an intro to masters swimming class at one of the community centers in February. Our pool will be heated in March, so this may be a good jump start to getting back into the water.
5) I still want to learn to surf. Don't know when that will happen though.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Nice to meet you, 2009
This is the blog entry that is all about reflecting on the past year and looking toward the year ahead and blah, blah, blah.
What can I say about 2008? It was pretty good. I did a 1/2 ironman, swam alcatraz, and got a mild concussion and awesome crazy road rash after crashing my bike. And now it is the beginning of 2009 and guess what? I am back to the not-very-much-in-shape shape I was in this time last year.
So, what does a Jill do to get back on that proverbial horse? She signs up for races.
I have decided that the motivating factor for me to train, is to have a race to train for. I am going to sign up for the Kaiser 1/2 marathon on Superbowl Sunday in SF. It is a month away and a race I have never done before. Plus, Super Bowl treats will taste yummy after 13.1 miles.
Yesterday I decided to google a "train in a month 1/2 marathon plan" and guess what? The internet is not as useful as it once was. I basically got every web page that had the word "1/2 marathon" and "month" in it. One guy posted something about not being a runner and wanting to train for a full marathon in a month and asked in a forum how he should train. He pretty much got a lot of "Don't do it dude" posts.
So I found a 9 week training plan and will be starting it at week 5. I enterred all my future runs in my outlook calendar at work and now it feels like I have something to work towards.
I went on my first run of 2009 yesterday. I hit up my usual trail in Campbell and decided to multitask and get a pound of coffee after my run. So, I zipped up my running jacket and put my atm card and key in one of the pockets and my mp3 in the other and zipped up the.pockets
Or so I thought
After my 3 mile run I headed back towards my car which was parked near downtown and got a weird panicky feeling. I shoved my hands in my pockets and my panic was confirmed---my ATM card and car key were gone!
I headed back to the trail to retrace my steps and looked all over for the key and card. No luck. I used the phone at a bookstore and called Dennis to let him know about my situation. He said he would leave work immediately and go home to find a spare key. He asked me where the spare key was.
"Um," I said, "I don't know if I have one."
I then walked to the bank to cancel my card and had time to spare before Dennis met me. I went back to the trail to look again. No luck. My first 3 mile training run turned into a 3 mile run, 4 mile walk.
Fortunately Dennis found a spare key and I was able to get into my car and drive home. So far, I am not too impressed with 2009.
In addition to the Kaiser 1/2 marathon, here are the other events I plan on doing in 2009:
Mermaid 1/2 Marathon
Tierra Bella bike ride (either metric or full century)
San Jose Olympic triathlon
Big Kahuna
It is a tough decision, but I don't think I should be as race crazy as I was before. I would like to do one "destination" race this year, but that depends on our travel plans.
So, tomorrow I am going to attempt 8 miles. I think I need some better tune-age in my Mp3. Any music suggestions?
What can I say about 2008? It was pretty good. I did a 1/2 ironman, swam alcatraz, and got a mild concussion and awesome crazy road rash after crashing my bike. And now it is the beginning of 2009 and guess what? I am back to the not-very-much-in-shape shape I was in this time last year.
So, what does a Jill do to get back on that proverbial horse? She signs up for races.
I have decided that the motivating factor for me to train, is to have a race to train for. I am going to sign up for the Kaiser 1/2 marathon on Superbowl Sunday in SF. It is a month away and a race I have never done before. Plus, Super Bowl treats will taste yummy after 13.1 miles.
Yesterday I decided to google a "train in a month 1/2 marathon plan" and guess what? The internet is not as useful as it once was. I basically got every web page that had the word "1/2 marathon" and "month" in it. One guy posted something about not being a runner and wanting to train for a full marathon in a month and asked in a forum how he should train. He pretty much got a lot of "Don't do it dude" posts.
So I found a 9 week training plan and will be starting it at week 5. I enterred all my future runs in my outlook calendar at work and now it feels like I have something to work towards.
I went on my first run of 2009 yesterday. I hit up my usual trail in Campbell and decided to multitask and get a pound of coffee after my run. So, I zipped up my running jacket and put my atm card and key in one of the pockets and my mp3 in the other and zipped up the.pockets
Or so I thought
After my 3 mile run I headed back towards my car which was parked near downtown and got a weird panicky feeling. I shoved my hands in my pockets and my panic was confirmed---my ATM card and car key were gone!
I headed back to the trail to retrace my steps and looked all over for the key and card. No luck. I used the phone at a bookstore and called Dennis to let him know about my situation. He said he would leave work immediately and go home to find a spare key. He asked me where the spare key was.
"Um," I said, "I don't know if I have one."
I then walked to the bank to cancel my card and had time to spare before Dennis met me. I went back to the trail to look again. No luck. My first 3 mile training run turned into a 3 mile run, 4 mile walk.
Fortunately Dennis found a spare key and I was able to get into my car and drive home. So far, I am not too impressed with 2009.
In addition to the Kaiser 1/2 marathon, here are the other events I plan on doing in 2009:
Mermaid 1/2 Marathon
Tierra Bella bike ride (either metric or full century)
San Jose Olympic triathlon
Big Kahuna
It is a tough decision, but I don't think I should be as race crazy as I was before. I would like to do one "destination" race this year, but that depends on our travel plans.
So, tomorrow I am going to attempt 8 miles. I think I need some better tune-age in my Mp3. Any music suggestions?
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