Jeff

[Brichard]

I ran outside for the first time this year. Thus far all of my running has been on the treadmill. Despite my good intentions I was only able to do 2.7 miles. I had the wind, but I started getting cramps.

I couldn't remember the last time I got a cramp running, so I did some research on the web.

http://www.janatrains.com/sidestitch.htm

I was pushing myself to try and run much faster then I normally run. I figured, Hey... I can do it on the treadmill, let's see what I got! But, even on the treadmill I start out slow and then build up my speed.

There is a bright note to all of this. The fact that I am having the cramps means that I am finally pushing myself. And in the long run I think that will be good.

The first year I ran to prove I could do it.

The second year I wanted to run with my brother, but this was the year I had to walk b/c of the heat.

The third year I wanted to prove I could run it again b/c I had to walk the year before! :cool:

This year I really want to see what I can do. I'm not getting any younger, and at 35 pounds below my last years weight there is no reason I shouldn't improve my speed. I really want to get under two hours.

Are you going to sign up for any mini tuneups? Let me know as I'd probably be interested.

[Jeff]

Congrats on the progress. I have found when I start slower in the beginning, I can really get some nice negative splits. I have decided my body is going to give up the time in the beginning or the end. When its at the end it tends to be more drastic and I end up with slower times and pains where they shouldn't be. My goal is to start slow and show myself that even with 3-4 miles at a slower pace I can make it up and then some at the back end. Like you I just wanted to finish last year and did so with three miles walking and I got little satisfaction. I too would like to di it in under two hours, but if I don't will be happy because I have done all that I can to prepare. Well I could eat better, so I do need to work on that.

As far as runs. I may do the sam costa towards the end of march if my motivation drops. As long as I am motivated though, I don't have much desire to do any runs. I may do the Run for the Cure though just for an excuse to give them money. I think that is in april. They have a couple of running groups through indyrunners, but those tend to meet in the evenings which are a bad time for me.