See Adrienne Run: Reconsidering the Treadmill

What's All This Then?

Greetings!

This blog has run its course, as it were. Actually three courses, but don't let that stop you from reading. Here's the skinny: I dedicated most of 2008 to running and fundraising for cancer research. On June 1, I ran the San Diego Rock n' Rock marathon. On June 21 I ran a half marathon in Anchorage, Alaska. Both of these feats were tackled with the coaching and support of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, for which I raised $5,725. The final challenge was the New York City marathon on Nov. 2. This time I trained with "Fred's team" on behalf of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center where I was treated successfully for Hodgkins lymphoma five years ago. I raised another $3240 (maybe more).

It was a banner year in many ways. I celebrated 5 years of health. I raised a lot of money. I earned a Team in Training triple crown for completing a triathlon, century bike ride and marathon. I was featured on a show about three first time runners in the NYC marathon, aired on NBC in New York. And ....

You can read all about my journey in sneakers below. And remember:
"A journey of 26.2 miles begins with a single shlep."

(For the back story, check out the Sept. 29th entry.)

Monday, May 12, 2008

Reconsidering the Treadmill

Today was a mixed bag. I decided to go back to Ye Olde Treadmill (YOT) to see if I could keep a faster pace than what I've been doing out on the road. I was also trying out my re-pimped right insole. I went back to the sports podiatrist to get fitted for an orthotic and explained the trouble I had on Saturday's long run with the pimped insoles. The "rocker bar" wasn't in the same place on both insoles. He sent me back to the shoe repairman to sort it out. I'll be getting the orthotic on Friday.

I ran 4.25 miles in 40 minutes. I ran the first mile in 9 minutes, then slowed it down with some intervals. I wouldn't say I ran at full effort at any point. I don't think I could sustain that first mile pace, and it was only a small sample, but it demonstrated what I have suspected: I can go much faster. I don't doubt that my legs can handle a speedier pace. Unfortunately, I was already in pain after 2 miles. I had to stop because the gym closed, but I would have stopped anyway at that point to bring my foot back to life.

I owe an apology to YOT. There's something to be learned from it. Here I am, late in the game, learning a lot. Then again, it's only late if these races are the end of my running life, not the beginning.

Note to self: discuss pacing with a coach.

Today: 4.25
Miles to date: 243.75