OPEN MOUTH...
INSERT THE FOLLOWING...
BEEF!
HOTDOG AND FRIES FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE
MATZAH BALL SOUP DEEP FRIED TWINKIE
CORNED BEEF AND PASTRAMI SANDWICH BUCKET OF BEER
APPLE FRITTERGOTTA LOVE VACATIONS!!!
2 years ago
Showing posts with label nutrition. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nutrition. Show all posts
Thursday, March 31, 2011
How to Gain 12lbs in 2 Weeks
HOTDOG AND FRIES MATZAH BALL SOUP CORNED BEEF AND PASTRAMI SANDWICH APPLE FRITTERSaturday, July 31, 2010
Wilson Wet and Wild Duathlon
Race Day! Perfect day, mid-70's, sun, low humidity, tiny breeze. Course, flat and fast (well for some people.)
My goal for this race was quite simple, win. The usual "big shots" were not there, so I figured I had a decent chance. Boy was I WRONG!
Run 1 (1.7 miles): A short out and back along the park roads, with two tiny but steepish hills. I went out strong and felt decent, until the end of the first mile. Then something went just horribly wrong. My energy...GONE! Uh oh...Heart rate was incredibly high, peaked at 223 (if this is even possible) and averaged 192. Something was very wrong (way too high for the beginning of a race.) 1st mile finished at 7:12, .7 at 7:43/pace. I finished Run 1 in 12:34 in 10th place. I was okay with this though, as I knew my strength was definitely in the bike.
T1: :45, eh, okay, I guess, nothing to be too proud of, but I was looking forward to making up some time on the bike.
Bike: (18.6 miles): A very flat course, with only a couple of rolling "bumps". I felt good here, but I held back thinking ahead to the final run. I certainly did not push to my limit, as I had in past races. I finished the bike portion in 53:05/21.0mph, 3rd best bike time, I'm generally pleased with this, but I may have made a mistake here. I certainly could have gained at least a couple of more minutes if I pushed, but really was not sure what was going on with my body. My heart rate was still all over the place, averaging 189BPM (I typically don't average much over 155 on the bike even when going all out.)
T2: :47, not happy with this, I actually stopped ran back to grab my hat, stupid! Regardless of this, I came out of transition in 3rd place, 2 minutes behind 2nd place and 1:30 ahead of 4th.
Run 2 (3.1 miles): Picture this, 18-wheeler cruising down the highway, tires flying off one at a time, and then crashing head on into a brick wall and exploding into a giant fireball. I was running, but I was truly gone. I hoped, in vain, to just be able to run fast enough to hold off the charging racers behind me. Alas, this was not the case, and I fell to 7th. I ran this 5K in 29:07/9:23 pace (ugh!)
Finishing Time: 1:36:21 (7th of 26) My previously chosen "target" who beat me in the Quakerman and then I returned the favor at Tri in the Buff, won and destroyed me by over 7 minutes.
What happened? Well, in a word NUTRITION. I ate like crap all week, while on vacation and it really caught up with me. I started a new way of eating after Memorial Day and it seemed to work quite well; lots of energy, decent weight loss, and improvements in runs and bike races. I'll get more into the specifics in a future blog. However, this week I fell back into the crap routine and paid for it. Lesson learned.
My goal for this race was quite simple, win. The usual "big shots" were not there, so I figured I had a decent chance. Boy was I WRONG!
Run 1 (1.7 miles): A short out and back along the park roads, with two tiny but steepish hills. I went out strong and felt decent, until the end of the first mile. Then something went just horribly wrong. My energy...GONE! Uh oh...Heart rate was incredibly high, peaked at 223 (if this is even possible) and averaged 192. Something was very wrong (way too high for the beginning of a race.) 1st mile finished at 7:12, .7 at 7:43/pace. I finished Run 1 in 12:34 in 10th place. I was okay with this though, as I knew my strength was definitely in the bike.
T1: :45, eh, okay, I guess, nothing to be too proud of, but I was looking forward to making up some time on the bike.
Bike: (18.6 miles): A very flat course, with only a couple of rolling "bumps". I felt good here, but I held back thinking ahead to the final run. I certainly did not push to my limit, as I had in past races. I finished the bike portion in 53:05/21.0mph, 3rd best bike time, I'm generally pleased with this, but I may have made a mistake here. I certainly could have gained at least a couple of more minutes if I pushed, but really was not sure what was going on with my body. My heart rate was still all over the place, averaging 189BPM (I typically don't average much over 155 on the bike even when going all out.)
T2: :47, not happy with this, I actually stopped ran back to grab my hat, stupid! Regardless of this, I came out of transition in 3rd place, 2 minutes behind 2nd place and 1:30 ahead of 4th.
Run 2 (3.1 miles): Picture this, 18-wheeler cruising down the highway, tires flying off one at a time, and then crashing head on into a brick wall and exploding into a giant fireball. I was running, but I was truly gone. I hoped, in vain, to just be able to run fast enough to hold off the charging racers behind me. Alas, this was not the case, and I fell to 7th. I ran this 5K in 29:07/9:23 pace (ugh!)
Finishing Time: 1:36:21 (7th of 26) My previously chosen "target" who beat me in the Quakerman and then I returned the favor at Tri in the Buff, won and destroyed me by over 7 minutes.
What happened? Well, in a word NUTRITION. I ate like crap all week, while on vacation and it really caught up with me. I started a new way of eating after Memorial Day and it seemed to work quite well; lots of energy, decent weight loss, and improvements in runs and bike races. I'll get more into the specifics in a future blog. However, this week I fell back into the crap routine and paid for it. Lesson learned.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Ahhhhhh! Running Again!
After a long week of rest and recovery I got back out today. The week's rest was much needed for the body even though by Friday I was yearning for a run or some kind of activity. I spent the week really focusing on managing what I was putting in my mouth.
Weight loss logic is really pretty simple if you are dedicated to it. Studies show that a caloric deficiency of 3500/week would net you a 1 lb. per week weight loss. Using that as a model, use a combination of diet and exercise to cut 500 calories a day out of your diet to lose 1 lb a week. Because I've been frustrated with my weight plateau over the past couple of months, I decided to be a bit more aggressive, 2lbs/week or cutting/burning 7000 calories a week. Based on my current weight, I need 2500-2800 calories per day to sustain my current weight with no exercise. Therefore, I am trying to eliminate about 1000 calories/day from this and targeting 1800 calories/day.
Food consumption has always been an issue for me. I love to eat. I have a nice little app on my I-Phone called Lose It! which helps me to track my caloric intake. I can also enter my exercise, which in effect, gives me more calories to consume. Take today for instance...my base calories are 1800, but I've "earned" and extra 878 calories from my run and strength training that I've done today.
Over the past week, this strategy has been doing well for me. I started off last week at 206 and ended the week at 201. Nice loss and a bit of a break through. 199 here I come!
Today's Run:
Mileage: 3.00
Time/Pace: 26:59/8:59
Avg HR: 154
T/W: 41/cloudy
I was shooting for a 9:15 pace today, but my body felt so good and it was like trying to hold back a 150lb dog on a leash, chasing a rabbit. I just went with it. Tomorrow...Yasso 800's!
Weight loss logic is really pretty simple if you are dedicated to it. Studies show that a caloric deficiency of 3500/week would net you a 1 lb. per week weight loss. Using that as a model, use a combination of diet and exercise to cut 500 calories a day out of your diet to lose 1 lb a week. Because I've been frustrated with my weight plateau over the past couple of months, I decided to be a bit more aggressive, 2lbs/week or cutting/burning 7000 calories a week. Based on my current weight, I need 2500-2800 calories per day to sustain my current weight with no exercise. Therefore, I am trying to eliminate about 1000 calories/day from this and targeting 1800 calories/day.
Food consumption has always been an issue for me. I love to eat. I have a nice little app on my I-Phone called Lose It! which helps me to track my caloric intake. I can also enter my exercise, which in effect, gives me more calories to consume. Take today for instance...my base calories are 1800, but I've "earned" and extra 878 calories from my run and strength training that I've done today.
Over the past week, this strategy has been doing well for me. I started off last week at 206 and ended the week at 201. Nice loss and a bit of a break through. 199 here I come!
Today's Run:
Mileage: 3.00
Time/Pace: 26:59/8:59
Avg HR: 154
T/W: 41/cloudy
I was shooting for a 9:15 pace today, but my body felt so good and it was like trying to hold back a 150lb dog on a leash, chasing a rabbit. I just went with it. Tomorrow...Yasso 800's!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Ugh
As Sunday's long run approached I was feeling good. I had skipped a race I wanted to do, but made up for it with a run that I got through without any concerns. It was a bit colder do to the wind, but with my gear I was confident I'd be okay. So off I went....
Things started out fine. For this run I was going to maintain a 9:35 pace throughout. First four miles....no problem 9:35, 9:34, 9:36, 9:36, right on target. Then something happened...I slammed head first into the biggest wall I've ever experienced. Marathon runners talk about hitting this physical and mentalwall around mile 20. I haven't ran a marathon yet, but I bet this is exactly how it feels. My legs just quit on me, my body got tense and sore, my arms wouldn't swing. Still I pushed on. I thought about what was going on and couldn't figure it out at first. I put in a decent amount of miles so far this week, but had felt no extreme tiredness or soreness. Then I figured it out. It was about 2pm and I hadn't eaten a thing today. WHAT (?!?!)...you say, me not eat. I've talked at length about how food is center in my life, so for me to forget to eat is bizarre. Hey, it happens, I guess.
Equipped with only my Accelerade (which accounts for about 400 calories or so), I pressed on, each step harder then the next. For the next few miles, I struggle to keep my pace close to my target, but I was fading fast...9:41, 9:39, 9:44,10:26. I passed a shortcut back home and seriously considered throwing the towel in, but I didn't. I fought on, telling myself that if I can get through this, it will make me stronger (cue comments on how bad this is!) I did finally finish in what I call survival mode; just finish! The final 4 miles split out at 11:10, 11:47, 11:42, 11:43.
What lesson was learned? Fuel before a run!
Mileage: 12.00
Time/Pace: 2:04:19/10:21
Avg HR: 164
Temp: 34
My Garmin watch estimated that I burned 2215 calories, so I hopped on the scale just to see where I was. I couldn't believe my eyes 208.8! This is probably some negative reinforcement to not eat before I run and get the weight down, but how I felt I won't soon forget. It's now Tuesday, and my body is still achy, but I will press on...
Things started out fine. For this run I was going to maintain a 9:35 pace throughout. First four miles....no problem 9:35, 9:34, 9:36, 9:36, right on target. Then something happened...I slammed head first into the biggest wall I've ever experienced. Marathon runners talk about hitting this physical and mentalwall around mile 20. I haven't ran a marathon yet, but I bet this is exactly how it feels. My legs just quit on me, my body got tense and sore, my arms wouldn't swing. Still I pushed on. I thought about what was going on and couldn't figure it out at first. I put in a decent amount of miles so far this week, but had felt no extreme tiredness or soreness. Then I figured it out. It was about 2pm and I hadn't eaten a thing today. WHAT (?!?!)...you say, me not eat. I've talked at length about how food is center in my life, so for me to forget to eat is bizarre. Hey, it happens, I guess.
Equipped with only my Accelerade (which accounts for about 400 calories or so), I pressed on, each step harder then the next. For the next few miles, I struggle to keep my pace close to my target, but I was fading fast...9:41, 9:39, 9:44,10:26. I passed a shortcut back home and seriously considered throwing the towel in, but I didn't. I fought on, telling myself that if I can get through this, it will make me stronger (cue comments on how bad this is!) I did finally finish in what I call survival mode; just finish! The final 4 miles split out at 11:10, 11:47, 11:42, 11:43.
What lesson was learned? Fuel before a run!
Mileage: 12.00
Time/Pace: 2:04:19/10:21
Avg HR: 164
Temp: 34
My Garmin watch estimated that I burned 2215 calories, so I hopped on the scale just to see where I was. I couldn't believe my eyes 208.8! This is probably some negative reinforcement to not eat before I run and get the weight down, but how I felt I won't soon forget. It's now Tuesday, and my body is still achy, but I will press on...
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
What's the Deal with Chinese Buffets?
I just can't understand the fascination with Chinese buffets or why I can't get enough of them. I walk in the door, practically salivating. Do I hit the appetizers first? Maybe some won ton soup and an egg roll or maybe skip that and get right to the General Tso's chicken, lo mien, fried rice, etc. The thing is I know that I'll feel like crap after I eat it, but I just can't help it. That first bite is practically heaven. Each bite after than gets less and less satisfying. First plate done, already feeling that churning in my stomach, I justify a second plate. I forgot the pepper chicken, dumplings and beef and broccoli, and besides, this IS a buffet and I need to get my money's worth. Sometimes, I even try for a third, real punishment! So obviously, I hit the buffet today and experienced all of this.
On the schedule today was my bike cross training, or what I have dubbed The Wall. If you recall the first time I tried this I failed, the resistance was intense. Tonight, I scaled back the resistance a bit to be able to make it through the 30 minute session. I made it through no problem might have been a bit too easy, next time I will bump it up a notch.
On the schedule today was my bike cross training, or what I have dubbed The Wall. If you recall the first time I tried this I failed, the resistance was intense. Tonight, I scaled back the resistance a bit to be able to make it through the 30 minute session. I made it through no problem might have been a bit too easy, next time I will bump it up a notch.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Running with Energy
I've been full of energy all week. It has been making my runs even more delightful than usual. I had quite the spring in my step, isn't running awesome?!?!
Mileage: 4.00
Time/Pace: 34:01/8:30
Avg HR: 160
Food Check: Going well, slight weak moment yesterday...pounded down some Chinese...but then I ran 6 miles, so probably a wash. I am not tracking formally, just focusing on eating good wholesome foods. The scale awaits....come on fatty you can do it!
Mileage: 4.00
Time/Pace: 34:01/8:30
Avg HR: 160
Food Check: Going well, slight weak moment yesterday...pounded down some Chinese...but then I ran 6 miles, so probably a wash. I am not tracking formally, just focusing on eating good wholesome foods. The scale awaits....come on fatty you can do it!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Cardic Monday
So do you think you are in shape? I found a new cross training workout I decided to try today. I proved to myself how horribly out of shape I still am.
Here's the basics:
The idea of this workout is to break through the "wall" runners talk about.
Done on an Up-Right Stationary Bike, w/1-20 level settings, do everything seated to focus on quads, hamstrings and calves.
Warm Up
3 min @ Level 6 100RPM
2 min @ Level 8 100 RPM
Work Out (Repeat this section 3 times)
30 sec @ Level 16 100RPM, 30 sec @ Level 8 100RPM (repeat 5 times)
2 min @ Level 6 100 RPM
Cool Down
4 min @ Level 6 70RPM
I got through the warm up and the 1st 3 repeats of 16/30, 8/30 and then crashed and burned. I stepped it back to 12/30, 6/30 and finished the first set of 5. I then took 5 minutes to recover instead of the suggested 2. I started the second set at 12/30, 6/30 but could only get through 2 more repeats and could barely spin for 4 more minutes for a grand total of 20 minutes.
All I can say is WTF!! It kicked my ass. Walking back to my hotel was like trying to balance on two stacks of jello! Yikes. I think I just found a new kick ass off day workout to punish myself with.
I also recommitted to some semblance of a healthy diet. Here's what I have eaten so far:
Breakfast: pineapple and other mixed fruit, quad espresso
Lunch: big salad with tomatoes, walnuts, sunflower seeds, red pepper and some Italian Dressing, more fruit and cottage cheese
Afternoon "Snack": some grapes and a Kashi Southwest Chicken
Dinner: more Kashi and fruit
Evening Snack: TBD, probably more fruit and cottage cheese
My food goals....one day at a time....hey is that Taco Bell in the distance?
Here's the basics:
The idea of this workout is to break through the "wall" runners talk about.
Done on an Up-Right Stationary Bike, w/1-20 level settings, do everything seated to focus on quads, hamstrings and calves.
Warm Up
3 min @ Level 6 100RPM
2 min @ Level 8 100 RPM
Work Out (Repeat this section 3 times)
30 sec @ Level 16 100RPM, 30 sec @ Level 8 100RPM (repeat 5 times)
2 min @ Level 6 100 RPM
Cool Down
4 min @ Level 6 70RPM
I got through the warm up and the 1st 3 repeats of 16/30, 8/30 and then crashed and burned. I stepped it back to 12/30, 6/30 and finished the first set of 5. I then took 5 minutes to recover instead of the suggested 2. I started the second set at 12/30, 6/30 but could only get through 2 more repeats and could barely spin for 4 more minutes for a grand total of 20 minutes.
All I can say is WTF!! It kicked my ass. Walking back to my hotel was like trying to balance on two stacks of jello! Yikes. I think I just found a new kick ass off day workout to punish myself with.
I also recommitted to some semblance of a healthy diet. Here's what I have eaten so far:
Breakfast: pineapple and other mixed fruit, quad espresso
Lunch: big salad with tomatoes, walnuts, sunflower seeds, red pepper and some Italian Dressing, more fruit and cottage cheese
Afternoon "Snack": some grapes and a Kashi Southwest Chicken
Dinner: more Kashi and fruit
Evening Snack: TBD, probably more fruit and cottage cheese
My food goals....one day at a time....hey is that Taco Bell in the distance?
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Open Mouth, Insert Food
I'm really bad at this whole food discipline thing. REALLY BAD! Work has been intense this week, so I justify what I eat. I'll say to myself "It's okay if you eat that donut, you are going to walking up and down hills all day." Last night, I visited my friends at McDonald's and had a double quarter pounder, large fries and a coke. I did leave off the pickles and that must count for something right?
I've been so disciplined with my running, why can't I do the same with my food?
Tuesday's Run:
Mileage:3.06
Time/Pace: 26:56/8:47
Avg HR: 146
Tonight's Run:
Mileage: 5.00
Time/Pace: 45:05/9:01
Avg HR: 148
I've been so disciplined with my running, why can't I do the same with my food?
Tuesday's Run:
Mileage:3.06
Time/Pace: 26:56/8:47
Avg HR: 146
Tonight's Run:
Mileage: 5.00
Time/Pace: 45:05/9:01
Avg HR: 148
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Smell That Fried Chicken?
So here I sit in my hotel room, ready to go out of my mind. I have been determined to change my eating habits. Yes, I know I have said this countless times throughout the years, and something always trips me up. Actually I find some excuse to pig out like, "Hey, It's Summer" or a friendly challenge of "Can you eat this whole bag of cookies tonight?"
I've been "good" since Friday, back on the point counting wagon. Now I sit here, smelling whatever deliciousness the guy next door is undoubtedly devouring. It smells like fried chicken. I have the sudden urge to hop in the car and get some KFC, which is weird, because I don't ever eat that, even in my darkest of eating days. Or maybe, Taco Bell or find some wings. Grrrr....I must resist....
I've been "good" since Friday, back on the point counting wagon. Now I sit here, smelling whatever deliciousness the guy next door is undoubtedly devouring. It smells like fried chicken. I have the sudden urge to hop in the car and get some KFC, which is weird, because I don't ever eat that, even in my darkest of eating days. Or maybe, Taco Bell or find some wings. Grrrr....I must resist....
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Hey Fatty, Have Another Bag of M&M's
One of the reasons I got into running was to drop weight. My big problem has always been my food consumption. I don't eat for nutrition or fuel, I eat for the flavor, texture, and sheer pleasure. I love the anticipation of that first bite, the full feeling of gorging on a delicious pizza or two. I can eat a 2lb bag of Peanut M&M's in one sitting. Bag chips? No problem! A Mighty Pack (4 burritos from Might Taco), yeah, for an afternoon snack!
I had been watching what I eat for awhile, but recently got back into the bad habits. One of my classic moves is what I call the Fast Food Trifecta. Let me explain...breakfast, McDonald's, Two Egg McMuffins, Hash Brown, and a Sausage Burrito, but I temper all of that caloric intake with a large Diet Coke. Lunch...Wendy's Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Large Fries w/more Diet Coke (Wendy's fries are the best!) Dinner...If Burger's have a King, I'm at least the prince! A double Whopper (with cheese, hold the pickle, please) Meal. Now of course everyday isn't like that, but it is so easy to get into this or a similar pattern.
So, I got on the scale this morning and, wouldn't you know I was up 6lbs from the last time I weighed myself 16 days ago. Yikes! What does this mean? Well, more running and some duct tape over my lips. Maybe even some electro shock therapy or a support group. Do they have Hey Dummy Stop Eating Like Shit Anonymous (HDSELSA)? Say that, it actually is catchy H-D- SELSA (kind of like salsa). Mmmmmm....salsa....chips....fiesta.....Mexican .....ole! See....I just did it again!
Anyway...my run....
Today's run was fantastic! I am loving this weather, it is perfect to run in. I did 8 miles and felt super the whole time. My shins are sore, but what should I expect, carrying an extra 35lbs or so. You can try to tell me to rest, I dare you!
Mileage: 8.00
Time/Pace: 1:17:20/9:40
Avg HR: 149
I had been watching what I eat for awhile, but recently got back into the bad habits. One of my classic moves is what I call the Fast Food Trifecta. Let me explain...breakfast, McDonald's, Two Egg McMuffins, Hash Brown, and a Sausage Burrito, but I temper all of that caloric intake with a large Diet Coke. Lunch...Wendy's Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Large Fries w/more Diet Coke (Wendy's fries are the best!) Dinner...If Burger's have a King, I'm at least the prince! A double Whopper (with cheese, hold the pickle, please) Meal. Now of course everyday isn't like that, but it is so easy to get into this or a similar pattern.
So, I got on the scale this morning and, wouldn't you know I was up 6lbs from the last time I weighed myself 16 days ago. Yikes! What does this mean? Well, more running and some duct tape over my lips. Maybe even some electro shock therapy or a support group. Do they have Hey Dummy Stop Eating Like Shit Anonymous (HDSELSA)? Say that, it actually is catchy H-D- SELSA (kind of like salsa). Mmmmmm....salsa....chips....fiesta.....Mexican .....ole! See....I just did it again!
Anyway...my run....
Today's run was fantastic! I am loving this weather, it is perfect to run in. I did 8 miles and felt super the whole time. My shins are sore, but what should I expect, carrying an extra 35lbs or so. You can try to tell me to rest, I dare you!
Mileage: 8.00
Time/Pace: 1:17:20/9:40
Avg HR: 149
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Clif Shot Blocks and My Garmin
I tried a new energy food today, the Clif Shot Blocks. Fantastic! They have the texture of gummy bears and taste great too. The packaging is not as easy to deal with while running as GU, but I think I might like this product better. They are 95% organic too.
My Garmin is both a blessing and a curse. The techno nerd inside me loves all of the intricate details it gives me, but the major flaw of the watch is that when it gets wet, it does not respond to commands as well. I have problems changing the view when it is humid, if I get too sweaty or it rains. This gets frustrating, otherwise a great tool that keeps me on track.
Knee felt better today, I was going to get a soft wrap, but didn't, maybe tomorrow. I am keeping a very close eye on it as it is close to my target race and I certainly don't want to miss it.
Mileage: 6.00
Time/Pace: 56:57/9:29
Avg Heart Rate: 152
Temp: 68
Weather: Overcast, slightly humid
My Garmin is both a blessing and a curse. The techno nerd inside me loves all of the intricate details it gives me, but the major flaw of the watch is that when it gets wet, it does not respond to commands as well. I have problems changing the view when it is humid, if I get too sweaty or it rains. This gets frustrating, otherwise a great tool that keeps me on track.
Knee felt better today, I was going to get a soft wrap, but didn't, maybe tomorrow. I am keeping a very close eye on it as it is close to my target race and I certainly don't want to miss it.
Mileage: 6.00
Time/Pace: 56:57/9:29
Avg Heart Rate: 152
Temp: 68
Weather: Overcast, slightly humid
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Freestylin'
I missed my last two workouts. Thursday, life just got in the way. Friday was my wife and I's 5th anniversary and we had the fortune of having one of the best days of the summer to enjoy, followed by a fabulous dinner. Today, was golf and a graduation party and afterwards I just had to get out and get some miles in. I didn't feel like setting or following a specific distance, so I just went out for a bit. Felt good and looking to do about 10 or so tomorrow.
Mileage: 5.28
Time/Pace: 53:29/10:07
Avg Heart Rate: 147
Temp: 66
Weather: Overcast, Light Drizzle
A bit about my nutrition. It is BAD. MY two problems with my diet and fitness has always been 1)no exercise and 2) poor, POOR diet. I think I have the first in check. I have never been this motivated to exercise and my new found love of running seems to be just blossoming. However, food is another story. I will get into this more in the near future, but just to give you a sample of how horrible it is here what I ate today: grande Java Chip Frap., cinnamon coffee cake, pretzels, 20oz. soda, two beef on wecks, two servings of jambalaya, a serving of roasted potatoes, serving of macaroni salad, piece of cake, a piece of barbecue chicken, and two light beers. It's only 8pm, so I will probably have something else before bed too. Can't wait to get into this topic further as I think it is my biggest problem and will hold back my progress.
Mileage: 5.28
Time/Pace: 53:29/10:07
Avg Heart Rate: 147
Temp: 66
Weather: Overcast, Light Drizzle
A bit about my nutrition. It is BAD. MY two problems with my diet and fitness has always been 1)no exercise and 2) poor, POOR diet. I think I have the first in check. I have never been this motivated to exercise and my new found love of running seems to be just blossoming. However, food is another story. I will get into this more in the near future, but just to give you a sample of how horrible it is here what I ate today: grande Java Chip Frap., cinnamon coffee cake, pretzels, 20oz. soda, two beef on wecks, two servings of jambalaya, a serving of roasted potatoes, serving of macaroni salad, piece of cake, a piece of barbecue chicken, and two light beers. It's only 8pm, so I will probably have something else before bed too. Can't wait to get into this topic further as I think it is my biggest problem and will hold back my progress.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Ronald McDonald House 5K
Before I get into the actual details on the run, here are a few things that amused, annoyed, intrigued, or otherwise caught my attention during the race.
1) Junk in The Trunk: There was a 20-something year old woman who started the race in front of me. She was wearing TIGHT (!!) pink spandex shorts. Normally, I would be all for this, hoping that she could set a good pace and I would have an extra bit of motivation for the run. However, WAY TOO MUCH junk. It was pouring over the top, squeezing out the sides, and bunching underneath (I assumed that last part.) Picture this....extra large curd cottage cheese! Nasty!! Now, I'm certainly not in the best shape and I shouldn't be too judgemental, but I know what the limits of my wardrobe are. I gave up my mesh tank top half shirts after I went above 180. I no longer wear the Speedo that I graced so many beaches with. Come on girl! Look in the mirror. Cover up that pizza!!
2) Smoking Cops (And I don't mean hottttt!!!!): During the run I passed two of Buffalo's finest smoking as they were directing traffic, blocking side streets, etc. The first was at the corner of Richmond and Utica the second at the corner of Delaware and Ferry. I know that being a police officer is sometimes a thankless job. In fact, we had a moment of silence for a fallen officer right before the race. However, How unthoughtful of these people to not only smoke on the job, but at an event that celebrates fitness and health. I am debating whether or not to write a letter to the BPD to acknowledge this. If I ask my wife she would definately say "Do It!!" (She's big on addressing bad service, behavior, etc.)
3) My Garmin Watch: I got a bit frustrated with my watch today. I had a hard time getting it to stop timing at the finish line. I'm sure that the rain and humidity had something to do with it, but come on (!) for almost $400, it should be able to handle these conditions. I wonder how it will hold up when I am doing the Badwater 135 (kinda a joke, but also kinda not?!?)
4) Recognizing Other Runners: I am starting to recognize other runners that I have run with in past races. There's the foot stomper, the fast granny, Mr. Heavy Breather, and the "Ball of Fury" (all pet names I have come up with. ) I guess I'm becoming a running nerd!
5) Don't Eat at the Chinese Buffet the Day of the Race: Yeah, I know right! I went out to lunch with a work collegue and we love to go to the buffet, so I didn't even question it. After eating that first dumpling, I thought, "Hmmmm...maybe this isn't a good idea." Well, I was already there and it was all you can eat...so...Fat Guy that I am...I chowed down.
Okay on to the race details...
My plan was to break the 25 minute mark. I knew this was a bit of a challenge for me, but I had a plan.
Mile 1: Great start. .25 into the race I looked down at my watched and noticed I was going at a 7:35 pace. I slowed down a bit and finished this first mile with no problem. My split goal for this mile was 8:15 and I nailed it.
Mile 2: Time to pick up the pace a bit. I was aiming for 8:00 pace and finished at 7:59. Cool! My goal well within reach. Until....
Mile 3: It all fell apart here. Quads went back to jelly. I was definately feeling that buffet...gurgle, gurgle. Body wouldn't go any faster, though my mind was whipping it like a thoroughbred in the final furlong. I was shooting for 7:45 and missed with an 8:06 mile.
So the final stats:
Mileage: 3.13
Time/Pace: 25:11/8:03
Avg Heart Rate: 167
Nice job by the race organizers. Good route, no problems. Will definately go back next year.
1) Junk in The Trunk: There was a 20-something year old woman who started the race in front of me. She was wearing TIGHT (!!) pink spandex shorts. Normally, I would be all for this, hoping that she could set a good pace and I would have an extra bit of motivation for the run. However, WAY TOO MUCH junk. It was pouring over the top, squeezing out the sides, and bunching underneath (I assumed that last part.) Picture this....extra large curd cottage cheese! Nasty!! Now, I'm certainly not in the best shape and I shouldn't be too judgemental, but I know what the limits of my wardrobe are. I gave up my mesh tank top half shirts after I went above 180. I no longer wear the Speedo that I graced so many beaches with. Come on girl! Look in the mirror. Cover up that pizza!!
2) Smoking Cops (And I don't mean hottttt!!!!): During the run I passed two of Buffalo's finest smoking as they were directing traffic, blocking side streets, etc. The first was at the corner of Richmond and Utica the second at the corner of Delaware and Ferry. I know that being a police officer is sometimes a thankless job. In fact, we had a moment of silence for a fallen officer right before the race. However, How unthoughtful of these people to not only smoke on the job, but at an event that celebrates fitness and health. I am debating whether or not to write a letter to the BPD to acknowledge this. If I ask my wife she would definately say "Do It!!" (She's big on addressing bad service, behavior, etc.)
3) My Garmin Watch: I got a bit frustrated with my watch today. I had a hard time getting it to stop timing at the finish line. I'm sure that the rain and humidity had something to do with it, but come on (!) for almost $400, it should be able to handle these conditions. I wonder how it will hold up when I am doing the Badwater 135 (kinda a joke, but also kinda not?!?)
4) Recognizing Other Runners: I am starting to recognize other runners that I have run with in past races. There's the foot stomper, the fast granny, Mr. Heavy Breather, and the "Ball of Fury" (all pet names I have come up with. ) I guess I'm becoming a running nerd!
5) Don't Eat at the Chinese Buffet the Day of the Race: Yeah, I know right! I went out to lunch with a work collegue and we love to go to the buffet, so I didn't even question it. After eating that first dumpling, I thought, "Hmmmm...maybe this isn't a good idea." Well, I was already there and it was all you can eat...so...Fat Guy that I am...I chowed down.
Okay on to the race details...
My plan was to break the 25 minute mark. I knew this was a bit of a challenge for me, but I had a plan.
Mile 1: Great start. .25 into the race I looked down at my watched and noticed I was going at a 7:35 pace. I slowed down a bit and finished this first mile with no problem. My split goal for this mile was 8:15 and I nailed it.
Mile 2: Time to pick up the pace a bit. I was aiming for 8:00 pace and finished at 7:59. Cool! My goal well within reach. Until....
Mile 3: It all fell apart here. Quads went back to jelly. I was definately feeling that buffet...gurgle, gurgle. Body wouldn't go any faster, though my mind was whipping it like a thoroughbred in the final furlong. I was shooting for 7:45 and missed with an 8:06 mile.
So the final stats:
Mileage: 3.13
Time/Pace: 25:11/8:03
Avg Heart Rate: 167
Nice job by the race organizers. Good route, no problems. Will definately go back next year.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Me and GU
Today I began my half marathon training. In my never ending quest to get skinny, faster, and be able to run further, I have entered the world of energy supplements. I have always been against supplements, because I was raised that the food you eat is the only fuel you need. However, as I read, I discover more and more folks using these products successfully. So I figured, what the heck. I read up a few different energy gels and decided to try GU. I ran over to EMS and bought a six-pack of Tri-Berry flavor. I used it as directed and was off....
I'm not sure if it was the gel or just in my head, but I do feel as though I had more energy throughout the run. After 4 miles (my goal for today), I still felt as though I could have gone on. I'm not totally convinced it was the gel, but I figure that I will try this for awhile to see if it enhances my performance. At only 100 calories, it works into my "points budget".
On to today's run....
Temp: 72
Weather: Sunny, Warm
Time/Pace 41:14/10:18
Avg Heart Rate: 149
Couple things to note on this run. First of all, I have been experiencing some pain in my shins. It hasn't gotten worse in the past month, but still is annoying. Today, instead of running on the path I ran along side of it in the grass. This was a bit tougher, due to the resistance of the grass. I also am now running with a water bottle (the kind that straps to your hand). I am trying to get comfortable with this, as I will need this as my mileage increases. It was a bit awkward at first, but midway through the run, I didn't notice it as much. Because I don't usually hydrate until after my run, I had to force myself to drink throughout the run.
All in all, a comfortable run.
I'm not sure if it was the gel or just in my head, but I do feel as though I had more energy throughout the run. After 4 miles (my goal for today), I still felt as though I could have gone on. I'm not totally convinced it was the gel, but I figure that I will try this for awhile to see if it enhances my performance. At only 100 calories, it works into my "points budget".
On to today's run....
Temp: 72
Weather: Sunny, Warm
Time/Pace 41:14/10:18
Avg Heart Rate: 149
Couple things to note on this run. First of all, I have been experiencing some pain in my shins. It hasn't gotten worse in the past month, but still is annoying. Today, instead of running on the path I ran along side of it in the grass. This was a bit tougher, due to the resistance of the grass. I also am now running with a water bottle (the kind that straps to your hand). I am trying to get comfortable with this, as I will need this as my mileage increases. It was a bit awkward at first, but midway through the run, I didn't notice it as much. Because I don't usually hydrate until after my run, I had to force myself to drink throughout the run.
All in all, a comfortable run.
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