Yet I'm still not desperate enough to run on the treadmill. I'm trying to integrate those Mindful Running principles into my runs, but when conditions are harsh, it's tough to stay focused and keep the negative voices quiet. I loaded up my playlist with some new songs, tunes guaranteed to keep my mind occupied and my legs moving. You know it's a good run when I'm singing along with the songs.
Can't stop, won't stop! That's me. The running kind.
Wednesday's 6 mile run wrapped up January, giving me a total of 109 miles for the month. If nothing else, that Lululemon/Strava challenge gave me a lot of miles! I was happy to see that. I felt great on this run and was able to extend my run/walk intervals to 9:1. I wonder if I could have given them up? But do I want to? Thursday, I ran after CrossFit. My legs were really fatigued after the workout so I stuck with the 4:1 intervals. Plus, the wind was whipping across the pond. I wasn't expecting it to be so raw and I didn't have my balaclava with me. Big mistake. Huge. My face hurt so bad at one point, I thought I might cry. I didn't and I didn't quit on the run either. I finished my planned 4 miles and then crashed on the couch the rest of the day.
For Saturday's long run, I made plans with Steph to run, but she had to cancel at the last minute. I was actually ok with that because I really wanted to make this run a "dress rehearsal" for next weekend's half marathon. Do you do that? It's important for me, mentally, to work on my pacing and fueling. I did my 4:1 run/walk intervals for the most part, skipping a few after a potty stop at the grocery store (the donut smell was intoxicating) and stopping for a selfie. It was windy and cold. I just wasn't feeling it but I finished my 11 miles as planned. For Sunday's run, I planned a 3 mile shake out run. I had no choice but to take it slow since there was fresh snow on the ground. It was pretty, it was windy, and it was cold. Still, who doesn't like a run in the fresh snow?
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| I spy my ankle rolling in...but my feet feel better without the inserts! |
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| Saturday's words of wisdom from the WTF weather app. Yes, I went outside. For 1 hour and 46 minutes. |
CrossFit:
Only one session with Sammy Jo this week (she was out of town on Monday) and she made it count. I worked on front squats and she piled on the weights. I maxed at 115# and couldn't finish the reps. It was heavy! I also did wall ball squats and sidestepping with the resistance band. There was some upper body work too but for the life of me, I can't remember what it was. It's probably better that I don't.
Yoga:
On Monday, I did a full vinyasa class with my favorite online instructor, Erin from Five Parks Yoga. She was in Costa Rica and has a bunch of new videos, including an ashtanga class. Wednesday after my run, I did her deep hip and hamstring stretch. I also did some yoga while running this week. It feels good to be back at it!
That's about it for the week! How was your week? I know we keep talking about the weather, but how are things where you are? Is it keeping you inside or have you been toughing it out? Donuts, yes or no? Tell me something good about one of your workouts! Have a great week!
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| The INKnBURN ambassadors posted a side plank challenge. You know I couldn't resist. |
This is the Weekly Wrap, hosted by Holly and me! This is a great opportunity for fitness bloggers to share their workouts, race recaps, and runs with like-minded women. Sharing is great but don't forget to reciprocate. Make it your goal to comment on at least 3 other blogs and come back on Wednesday after the linkup closes and comment on 3 more. Don't forget to comment on the hostesses' blogs and link back to them as well. Don't be that person who links and leaves. Thanks so much!
Awesome job with your workouts this week Wendy! I was also sad that the cold snap came back this week, especially yesterday. You did a great job of getting outside for your runs and thats awesome.
ReplyDeleteI'm really really ready to be done with this but since it's not done with us, I guess I need to put up and shut up, right?
DeleteNice job on those front squats!! I miss doing CrossFit. I need to figure out how to incorporate squats and deadlifts into my strength training program because I just love doing those. I mean, I do them during my strength workouts just with lighter weights because of the reps. I'd like to keep working on them though - like have squat days or deadlift days.
ReplyDeleteI've been toughing it out and heading out the door. Ran in the rain twice last week (ugh) and just missed the rain one day. Yesterday was darn cold but thankfully, there was no wind.
And yes to donuts. Yes to ALL the donuts.
The CF workouts have really turned things around for me. But wow, are they hard. Hopefully you can get back at it!
DeleteGreat work! I used to do dress rehearsals when I raced. Now I don't even run. Lol. Hopefully soon. Also, I have INKnenvy. I love all your shirts.
ReplyDeleteThese long-sleeved pullovers are the BOMB! I just love them and they are pretty warm with one layer underneath. I love the color in the winter.
DeleteDang, you ran a lot of miles in January! That's impressive, especially considering the stupid cold temps and snow.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised too, because I thought I cut back after the Lulu/Strava challenge! Apparently not.
DeleteMy workouts were great this week, until it all came crashing down on Friday. It's been a nice, relaxing weekend, though, and I think I really needed that.
ReplyDeleteNo, I definitely don't feel the need for a dress rehearsal for a half. At all! Giimme all the taper, please!
And thank you guys for opening up the linkup earlier. We're usually eating dinner at around 6ish, and that was kind of killing me!
I don't taper before a half because it's I'm not racing it. It's just a long run to me. I will cut back for a couple weeks after tho. That I like!
DeleteI usually post around noon, so it worked out well that Holly wanted to open earlier.
I am so done with winter (says the gal who usually prides herself on outdoor running ALL the time). That's right, I have actually been on the 'mill, and I'm okay with it. I'm certainly not loving it, but I'm hating it less. I'm actually not hating burpees anymore...What the WHAT? I don't know myself anymore....
ReplyDeleteBecky used to use burpees to punish me and then I got better at them. Now I don't mind them at all.
DeleteNice mileage for January! I've done a few of the routines from Five Parks Yoga per your recommendation. I really like the hip/hammie ones. I only eat donuts when I go to the beach. It's like a rule I can't break or something... I'm so looking forward to next weekend!
ReplyDeleteI didn't eat any of the donuts but the smell was intoxicating! Those donuts at the beach are the best. Well, almost. We will have to go to Stan's in the city when you come here. Incredible.
DeleteI stay inside more than out but I don't mind the boredom of an inside track - it lets me zone out a lot more and I'm pretty entertained by my people watching of the others on the track too. However, since I work out at lunch and eat after my workout; when I walk out of the rec center I can smell anything that has been grilled or fried that day from our student union which is across the way. Going back to my building for my salad is less thrilling after smelling the grilled meat. :)
ReplyDeleteI don't mind a track nearly as much as the treadmill. At least you're moving forward on the track!
DeleteGreat job pushing through this week! It sounds like you don't taper much before a half marathon. The weather here has still been kinda dreadful. I haven't been outside this weekend though. My best workout this week was on Tuesday - treadmill repeats for the win. I didn't fly off the back of the machine lol!
ReplyDeleteTaper? What's that? No, I don't taper before a half unless I'm racing it, which is something I hardly ever do these days. I just treat a half like a long run.
DeleteWay to go on getting in those 11 miles. I have been using the TM lately but not because I don't want to run outside, it's just because it has become so convenient as of lately. I'm looking forward to a run outside. I wouldn't even mind if there was snow out there either!
ReplyDeleteOh, you can't beat the TM for convenience. But no thanks. I need the fresh air and I think it helps me stay healthy.
DeleteThe weather is always all over the place these days. I started reading Mindful Running today and in the beginning it talks about not being bothered by the wind.. I hope to one day be able to run so mindfully that cold, strong winds don't bother me!
ReplyDeleteI guess I need to go back to that section on wind for a refresher! The wind only bothers me in that it really slows me down!
DeleteI am not desperate enough to hit the treadmill either. I like the social aspect of running too. It's like group therapy over here!! looking very strong lately-I did make it back to yoga this week 2x. I should try some of the on line classes you like. Thanks for the link up
ReplyDeleteI really like Erin's classes. I've tried some of the others that people have recommended but I like her style.
DeleteI agree with the "practice round" the week or 2 before. I feel much better when I can do that too. Hopefully it warms up for you soon!
ReplyDeleteFrom your lips to God's ears! Winter needs to calm down!
DeleteGreat mileage this month.
ReplyDeleteThis is the coldest winter ever. It’s really tough to get outside. But I do hate the treadmill so I do it.
Good luck next weekend. It will be a blast.
I only eat donuts in the summer. Our marina provides them free and I can’t resist.
I'm excited for a change of scenery, even if it won't be as warm as I hoped. The temps predicted are actually perfect running weather. Stay tuned.
DeleteGood job getting out there even after the weather turned nasty again. It got cold here again, too. I don't really mind running in the cold because our cold isn't that cold compared other places, plus we so rarely get an actual winter I'm taking all of this humidity-free weather while I can!
ReplyDeleteI like your attitude! Now, if it could be a tiny bit warmer here....
DeleteI had to face my first frigid run this weekend. OTF has ruined the treadmill for me -- I can only stand it for intervals now.
ReplyDeleteThat's all I can do on it!
DeleteKudos to you for continuing to get outside for your runs. While I hit the treadmill more than I would have liked in January I don't think I can do it for another month so time to bundle up!
ReplyDeleteInterestingly, there were a lot of people on the path yesterday--walking their dogs and running! I think everyone is done hibernating.
DeleteYou're definitely tougher than I am. With that cold and wind, I would've been using my treadmill. I'm the Goldilocks of running - I need it to be juuuuuust right.
ReplyDeleteI just know that I'll feel so much better if I get out there and get it done!
DeleteI'm tired of talking about this cold weather and look forward to us complaining about the heat and humidity. LOL
ReplyDeleteYour run around the pond sound miserable...
Thanks for the linkup!
Me too! We did have a wonderful fall and I knew we were going to pay for it. Ok, I'm pretty sure I'm done.
DeleteI feel like front squats are the hardest squats of all! But you look so strong -- way to go!
ReplyDeleteI think so--just trying to keep my elbows up is so hard!
DeleteI did a Five Parks Yoga video this morning. Have you tried the Happy Hips & Happy Hearts one? I've done it before and really like it - even if I cannot do wheel pose. :)
ReplyDeleteI have not tried that class! She has so many great classes, which is why I like her.
DeleteWow, great mileage this month! I'm so over winter. It's been the snowiest, iciest and coldest winter in a while so I have not been god about getting in too many runs - just so many infor treadmill runs which have been hard. You are rocking it! You look so strong in your mileage and those squats!
ReplyDeleteI'm really enjoying my strength training! who knew?
DeleteUmm..36? I would be running in shorts if it was 36. I can't sympathize with that!
ReplyDeleteThe treadmill is a necessary evil for me when it's -8 real temp with feels like of -20...I would LOVE to see 36 on my WTForecast app today! :)
But I know, I know, different part of the country, but consider yourself lucky.
Thanks as always for hosting the linkup!
It wasn't the temperature that day, it was the wind. And yes, I did 10 that day.
DeleteIt won't be 36 in Antarctica, so keep reminding yourself that you are training in the best place you can to prepare for this race!
I'm so tired of this up and down weather crap. I was so cold on my midweek run, I couldn't will myself out on Saturday (I milled it) even though it was pretty warm. Thank heavens I don't have a spring marathon to train for.
ReplyDeleteRight there with you!
DeleteGreat mileage Wendy! It's been cold in Hong Kong. It dipped back down to the mid 40s and stayed there. Our little apartment heaters have been working overtime ---> they are nothing like furnaces back home. I'm ready for it to warm up a bit, but it's definitely not too cold to keep me from running outside.
ReplyDeleteIs that abnormally cold for HK? Seems like it! I hope it warms up soon for you.
DeleteI know I lucked out with my Half, but Mother Nature came back with a wallop for today's four miler. I'm with you, this winter has been The Worst. Keeping chapstick makers in business.
ReplyDeleteYes! And hand cream! Crazy.
Delete(((whispers))) this texan KNOWS how lucky she is with the weather and promises herself again not to complain this summer. xo
ReplyDeleteYou can--we all have our extremes!
DeleteWindy. Cold. 11 miles - by yourself. WOW, I think you have some real willpower. Good luck on your upcoming race! You're ready. It's the mental toughness I need to work on and you inspire me.
ReplyDeleteI figure if nothing else, running in this weather will push me up those hills in Birmingham!
DeleteGreat mileage! I'm really ready for spring. 30 and up is fine but 20s somehow make it so much harder to get warm!
ReplyDeleteEven 20s are ok with me as long as there is no wind. The wind is a total deal breaker.
DeleteI am such a wimp- I hate running in the very cold, and literally suited up, stepped outside, and turned around and did an inside workout to a video! You are an inspiration!
ReplyDeleteI just loathe the treadmill. Loathe. I've only run on it once this winter and it was enough to push me back outside.
DeleteGreat mileage for the month! Your strength workout sounds really fun. It is spring-like here - 40s and 50s - I wish I could send you our warm weather!
ReplyDeleteI do love my strength workouts! That is one area of my training that continues to improve.
DeleteOhhh it has been so cold here this year too... nothing like what you get though. Sounds like a great month otherwise.
ReplyDeleteLet's start a countdown to spring!
It's all relative, right? Hopefully things will turn around quickly.
DeleteLululemon (and half marathon training) also helped me up my mileage. I ran 124 miles! I’m pretty sure that’s the most in years. Good luck in your race next weekend. I hope it warms up for you. On my end I’m hoping it cools down. It’s topped out at 90 the last couple days!
ReplyDeleteOk, let's share. You send me some heat and I'll send you some cold? Deal?
DeleteWhat a great week! You're a champ for dealing with that cold weather.
ReplyDeleteThis so-called champ is starting to burn out! I'm looking forward to some lower mileage the next couple of weeks.
DeleteThe weather here is supposed to be super nice this week with temps in the 60s. But, this is SC and it does get cold here but rarely snows. I didn't even run 100 miles in January but I was dealing with an injury and we did have a snow here and I didn't run in that (don't own gear, roads weren't clear, not risking it bc I was already injured anyway). I hope your half marathon goes well!
ReplyDeleteThank you! I hope you are done with the snow!
DeleteWow. You did great. Makes me feel horrible for all the nothing I did out here in sunny California. The most did was take my dog on an extended walk. I've gotta do better.
ReplyDeleteI wish I could trade weather with you, because ours has been oddly springlike - that isn't a compliment, since spring here is just one giant mud puddle. It's snowing now but it's supposed to warm up again in a couple days - which means everything will get icy again.
ReplyDeleteYou know what they say, be careful what you wish for! I wouldn't wish the brutal cold on anyone.
Delete100+ miles for January! Impressive lady! Good luck this weekend in Birmingham ....you two will have so much fun and I can't wait to hear all about it!
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to it!
DeleteThe weather is here, wish you were beautiful... oh wait, that's not how that goes! (Sorry, that's from an old postcard.) No complaints here. 49 at 5:30 this morning with no wind.
ReplyDeleteWe did our 2nd annual "Dessert Free January" and celebrated by buying a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts on February 1st!
Isn't that a Jimmy Buffett song? I'm so jealous of the weather out west, I can hardly stand it. Enjoy those donuts!
DeleteYep, I've been struggling with the cold and the wind too. I'm impressed you got outside so much! All my workouts were inside last week.
ReplyDeleteOh, no...I really try not to run inside unless it's dangerous. I need the natural light!
DeleteHahahah that weather app is awesome! I'd venture outside as well if I didn't need to get in so much elevation training (but who am I kidding, I'm happy for that excuse!(
ReplyDeleteI could have done my hill training on the mill, i get that...
DeleteI've had to do most of my runs inside on a treadmill (PT orders - so I don't slip and fall) and it's terrible. I can't run more than a few miles before going nuts. I was able to get outside this weekend and it was great -- even in chilly temps. So much nicer! But I shouldn't complain too much -- at least I get to run! ;) Congrats on your January mileage. Have a great week!
ReplyDeleteI hope you are released from the TM soon! There's nothing better than running outside.
DeleteGreat job with your runs this past week! The weather has been all over the place...one day I'm wearing capris, another day I'm trying not to get too wet in the pouring rain! I'm glad your walking intervals are working out for you! I've been walking briefly after 3 miles when I take my fuel...it seems to help!
ReplyDeleteNo capris here--we go from cold to more cold! LOL!
DeleteAwesome mileage for January (and amazing that you kept it outside with all the freezing temps). I finally got an outside run during the week this week!
ReplyDeleteI was pretty surprised about that mileage myself!
Delete109 miles, woah! I barely ran 16k, ha!
ReplyDeleteGreat job on your runs this week! I like running in the cold but not in the wind. I am so tired of the cold weather too, and I really like your optimism that February only has 28 days. LOL Hopefully the cold weather will be gone by then! Have a great week!
ReplyDeleteYep, only 23 days to go... :p
DeleteYeah I don't do the treadmill either, give me the great outdoors! (even when the air hurts my face lol)
ReplyDeleteI'll never leave the balaclava at home again!
DeleteWOW Great mileage for January. YOu are bad ass. I definitely dont envy the cold, I dont like weather that makes my face hurt....
ReplyDeleteI don't like that weather either!
DeleteThis weather. I'm seriously over the bitter cold. If it could stay in the 20s and 30s I would be happy. But with more snow. We get snow and then it rains. So freakin' weird! We just had a really fun night snowshoe race get cancelled because lack of snow. Boo!
ReplyDeleteSee, that's what I don't like! Give us snow and let us keep it for a while! I would love to get out on my XC skis.
DeleteThat snow! It's so pretty!
ReplyDeleteOur weather keeps going in and out. It's crazy. I was all bundled up last week, and then Sunday's half was in the mid 70s, hot, sunny and humid. I wasn't in love with that.
We are back into yoga in these parts, and I know it's doing us all some good.
The snow is pretty--but it doesn't stick around for long. We're getting snow all week, so fingers crossed we can actually enjoy it!
DeleteI am beyond over this winter. I’ve been doing way more treadmill running than I care to do, but my body and mind have really been challenged by this super cold weather. I’m not sure how much more wind burn my poor face can endure!
ReplyDeleteI use Vaseline to protect my skin before I go out. But yes, this weather is the pits.
DeleteI miss going to a CF box. I sorta do them on my own when friends post WODs, but I can never get to the max rep due to the lack of spotting.
ReplyDeleteOh, I wouldn't do the lifting I do without a spotter!
DeleteSounds a like a productive week! Way to push on through the cold! It’s been brutal here and there is way to much snow for me to go running outside! So treadmill it is!
ReplyDeleteI may have to change up my strategy this week too, as we are getting snow every day. Stay tuned.
DeleteGreat week! I keep saying I want to do more yoga but never get to it. I need to check out the online stuff. The weather here isn't too bad, lows in the upper 30s and highs in the 50s.
ReplyDeleteI can't believe the excellent quality of the online yoga community! You just can't go wrong.
DeleteGreat job on your workouts this week! Weather here in Davis has gotten pretty nice. Sunny days and temps in the 60-70s. Hope the weather warms up for you! Good luck in your half this weekend!
ReplyDeleteNo such luck with our weather! We're getting snow every day this week. I'm anxious for my "winterlude" to Alabama this weekend. Right now, the forecast is for the 60s. Sounds heavenly!
DeleteGreat job on that. I don't know why they call it a stability ball because the last thing it is is stable, right? It should be called the unstability ball...
ReplyDeleteThe weather has been a BEAST this year — worse than any winters I remember lately... My rule of thumb for fitting in longer runs outside is a windchill temp of 0°F or above. We really haven’t had that in weeks! I’m dying here. -17°F was okay only for 2 miles.
ReplyDeleteDo you ever wear goggles? I worry about damaging my eyes on those cold ones but haven’t ran in goggles before. You’re one tough runner!
I don't wear goggles- my eyes don't seem to be bothered by the cold. It's my skin and I do coat the exposed skin with vaseline.
Delete