I'm beginning to like the sprint up those stairs as a finish. I wasn't going to do it this time, figuring I would reverse what I did a couple of days ago.
But anyway, I started out like I usually do, running along Crescent Road to the top of The Path and taking it down to the bottom. I weaved through traffic, runners that stopped at the bottom and then just stood in the way.
On to the path along Memorial Drive. Lovely sunset, lovely evening. A little cool, but perfect for running. I crossed at 14th again, as usual, and on the other side by the sculpture garden, I started meeting runners with bibs. I have no idea what that was about.
At the causeway to Prince's Island, at the west end of the island, I crossed over and ran along the water, just for a change. Past the River Cafe, and then back on the usual path. Not much to see, really, but it was a little bit of a change.
When I got across the foot bridge, I did plan on taking the path along the bottom of the bluff, but found myself heading for the stairs. It wasn't a total sprint. I have to admit I walked the landing that's half way up, and there wasn't a lot of bounce to my stride near the top, but I was running it.
I took the path along the bluff, all the way to 6A Street, before crossing over to Alexander Crescent and toward home.
Distance: 7.53 Time: 42:47
Average speed: 5:40 min/km (10.58 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 5C.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Trying to Get Back to Routine
The remnants of that cold are still hanging around, but the post-run coughing fit wasn't nearly as intense as last week. I still feel some tension in the chest while I'm running, but there's definite improvement.
A good run tonight. I mixed things up some, too. I started by heading west along Cresent Road until the sharp turn, where it leaves the edge of the bluff. Very near there, a path slashes across the slope down to the paved path that curves around behind Sunnyside along the bottom.
On the paved path, I ran back toward The Stairs, and then joined my usual route across Memorial Drive and along the river.
Very nice out tonight, with warm temperatures and nary a breeze. Definitely shorts and t-shirt weather.
I crossed the river at 14th Street, then back toward the promenade and Eau Claire. By the time I reached the Jaipur Bridge, sunset was about done. It was very dark on the island, with no lights on yet. I got a little way along on the suspension bridge, and they all came on. Kind of really bright after being really dark.
I've been running up the first couple of flights of The Stairs to reach The Path and then continuing up like always. But tonight for some reason, I stuck to the stairs. I managed to run up all but the last twenty steps or so, and then only because of traffic.
It's wonderful to finally get out after a long hiatus.
Distance: 7.50 Time: 42:31
Average speed: 5:39 min/km (10.58 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 11C.
A good run tonight. I mixed things up some, too. I started by heading west along Cresent Road until the sharp turn, where it leaves the edge of the bluff. Very near there, a path slashes across the slope down to the paved path that curves around behind Sunnyside along the bottom.
On the paved path, I ran back toward The Stairs, and then joined my usual route across Memorial Drive and along the river.
Very nice out tonight, with warm temperatures and nary a breeze. Definitely shorts and t-shirt weather.
I crossed the river at 14th Street, then back toward the promenade and Eau Claire. By the time I reached the Jaipur Bridge, sunset was about done. It was very dark on the island, with no lights on yet. I got a little way along on the suspension bridge, and they all came on. Kind of really bright after being really dark.
I've been running up the first couple of flights of The Stairs to reach The Path and then continuing up like always. But tonight for some reason, I stuck to the stairs. I managed to run up all but the last twenty steps or so, and then only because of traffic.
It's wonderful to finally get out after a long hiatus.
Distance: 7.50 Time: 42:31
Average speed: 5:39 min/km (10.58 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 11C.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Hack, Hack
This damn cold has been hanging on for a couple or weeks now. But I finally felt healthy enough to try a run. Right up until I actually stepped out the door, when a tickly tickle started in the throat and wouldn't let go until I got down the bluff. Not coughing, but a kind of constant 'ahem, ahem, ahem...' Once I got on the path along Memorial Drive, it had settled down into a raspy wheeze.
A long day was in front of this, too. I have been having issues with home internet service, and after calls spread out over the last week, a service person was dispatched for today.
Naturally, they never know when they'll show up. I went into work, gathered up some stuff and brought it home. I was out of touch, email-wise, but I was moderately productive.
The guy finally showed up at 6:00 pm, about the time I was about to call it a day and change into running gear. An hour later I have an new internet modem/router, and a somewhat cheaper access plan. Five minutes after that, I was coughing down the street.
I only ran to 14th Street, and even then my chest was a little achy with the wheezing and stuff. All this darkness, and not nearly anyone on the trails. Cold and windy, too, which made it all the more dismal.
And yet, not really. Once I was moving and warmed up, it felt crisp. And it wasn't entirely dark. I got to catch the last bit of glow from the sunset. People were out. Not a bad evening at all.
Distance: 7.15 Time: 41:18
Average speed: 5:46 min/km (10.39 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Clear and 5C.
A long day was in front of this, too. I have been having issues with home internet service, and after calls spread out over the last week, a service person was dispatched for today.
Naturally, they never know when they'll show up. I went into work, gathered up some stuff and brought it home. I was out of touch, email-wise, but I was moderately productive.
The guy finally showed up at 6:00 pm, about the time I was about to call it a day and change into running gear. An hour later I have an new internet modem/router, and a somewhat cheaper access plan. Five minutes after that, I was coughing down the street.
I only ran to 14th Street, and even then my chest was a little achy with the wheezing and stuff. All this darkness, and not nearly anyone on the trails. Cold and windy, too, which made it all the more dismal.
And yet, not really. Once I was moving and warmed up, it felt crisp. And it wasn't entirely dark. I got to catch the last bit of glow from the sunset. People were out. Not a bad evening at all.
Distance: 7.15 Time: 41:18
Average speed: 5:46 min/km (10.39 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Clear and 5C.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Just a Quick One
I was meeting a friend for dinner, so had to get a quick one in. I haven't run for awhile, and I'm starting to miss it. With the hiking, it's not such a big deal to miss a little, but I get a little antsy if I haven't been out there for awhile.
Tonight was cool. The weather has been all over the map the last couple of days, and there is a definite chill. I reluctantly dug out the running tights, and likely didn't really need them, but there ya go.
I found I wasn't the only one either. Some have been wearing warm gear for a couple of weeks. Tonight there were fewer in shorts than not. Even with shorts, the tops were layered. And the west horizon is looking decidedly white.
A good strong run, typical of when I don't get out for awhile.
Distance: 7.10 Time: 39:43
Average speed: 5:35 min/km (10.73 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 6C.
Tonight was cool. The weather has been all over the map the last couple of days, and there is a definite chill. I reluctantly dug out the running tights, and likely didn't really need them, but there ya go.
I found I wasn't the only one either. Some have been wearing warm gear for a couple of weeks. Tonight there were fewer in shorts than not. Even with shorts, the tops were layered. And the west horizon is looking decidedly white.
A good strong run, typical of when I don't get out for awhile.
Distance: 7.10 Time: 39:43
Average speed: 5:35 min/km (10.73 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 6C.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Saturday Morning
It's not often I go out on a Saturday, but I've only run once all week, and tomorrow I'll be heading to the Kananaskis for a hike. So I needed a loosener.
Out the door, and down the street. It took an extra minute or two for the GPS to find itself, and the fall chill was definitely in the air. I had also found my running gloves last week, but forgot to wear them, not even thinking of them until well into the run when my fingers began to feel crampy from the cold.
That didn't last long, of course, once I was good and warm. I find it takes longer to get to that point of being fully warmed up, lately. I attribute that to my increased level of fitness.
It's such a colourful time of year. When running, it's hard to shuffle through the leaves, but every step brought a satisfying crunch (to quote some cereal box from somewhere.)
Saturdays seem quiet on The Stairs, with none of the fitness groups jamming them or the surrounding paths. But there were a couple running up and down - there is always someone on it. Seems like a 24 hour thing, some days.
Nice run, lovely morning. I'm good.
Distance: 7.16 Time: 41:08
Average speed: 5:44 min/km (10.44 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 6C.
Out the door, and down the street. It took an extra minute or two for the GPS to find itself, and the fall chill was definitely in the air. I had also found my running gloves last week, but forgot to wear them, not even thinking of them until well into the run when my fingers began to feel crampy from the cold.
That didn't last long, of course, once I was good and warm. I find it takes longer to get to that point of being fully warmed up, lately. I attribute that to my increased level of fitness.
It's such a colourful time of year. When running, it's hard to shuffle through the leaves, but every step brought a satisfying crunch (to quote some cereal box from somewhere.)
Saturdays seem quiet on The Stairs, with none of the fitness groups jamming them or the surrounding paths. But there were a couple running up and down - there is always someone on it. Seems like a 24 hour thing, some days.
Nice run, lovely morning. I'm good.
Distance: 7.16 Time: 41:08
Average speed: 5:44 min/km (10.44 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and 6C.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
But It's a Good Hurt
After my cross training adventure a couple of days ago, I wasn't sure I was going to be going too far. I planned for the 7 km loop, and stuck to it, but it wasn't all that bad.
Sure, the first kilometre or so was a little rough. Stiffness in the quads and in the glutes, and the knees were a little creaky. By the time I cross Prince's Island, it was good.
Lots of people out, and a couple of rude ones too. It takes all kinds.
Back at The Stairs, which I've been taking the first couple of flights up to The Path, there was the usual traffic jam with all the fitness groups running, jumping, going sideways, whatever. But in the mix, a young black cat, not shy at all, just picking her way up the steps, and stopping occasionally to accept a stroke or quick scratch behind the ear. Neat.
Anyway, but that time, no aches hardly at all, but the legs are still pretty much spent from the hike.
Distance: 7.13 Time: 40:29
Average speed: 5:40 min/km (10.57 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Sunny and 23C.
Sure, the first kilometre or so was a little rough. Stiffness in the quads and in the glutes, and the knees were a little creaky. By the time I cross Prince's Island, it was good.
Lots of people out, and a couple of rude ones too. It takes all kinds.
Back at The Stairs, which I've been taking the first couple of flights up to The Path, there was the usual traffic jam with all the fitness groups running, jumping, going sideways, whatever. But in the mix, a young black cat, not shy at all, just picking her way up the steps, and stopping occasionally to accept a stroke or quick scratch behind the ear. Neat.
Anyway, but that time, no aches hardly at all, but the legs are still pretty much spent from the hike.
Distance: 7.13 Time: 40:29
Average speed: 5:40 min/km (10.57 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Sunny and 23C.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Rainy, Rainy.
Not a lot of rain. It was a little spotty for the first half. The pavement was speckled, and I didn't even feel it for a long way into the run.
But I did feel an ache in the shins. I have no idea where that came from. I was planning to do the 10 km loop, but opted for the 7 km one. It probably wouldn't have been a problem. After about 5 km, things felt good.
Coming up to the 14th Street bridge, the rain got a little more serious about being rain. The pavement began to look evenly damp, and there was a sprinkly feel. It was coming nice and steady when I passed the C-Train bridge.
The post run stretching is on my front step. That was a little drippy, too.
Distance: 7.00. Time: 40:52
Average speed: 5:49 min/km (10.3 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 15C. Rather inaccurate, that.
But I did feel an ache in the shins. I have no idea where that came from. I was planning to do the 10 km loop, but opted for the 7 km one. It probably wouldn't have been a problem. After about 5 km, things felt good.
Coming up to the 14th Street bridge, the rain got a little more serious about being rain. The pavement began to look evenly damp, and there was a sprinkly feel. It was coming nice and steady when I passed the C-Train bridge.
The post run stretching is on my front step. That was a little drippy, too.
Distance: 7.00. Time: 40:52
Average speed: 5:49 min/km (10.3 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 15C. Rather inaccurate, that.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Cool and Drizzly
Out late again. That's kinda how my schedule is, and will be for the next few months.
The Stairs was positively a traffic jam, with all the people running up and down, in all orientations. But I was past that quickly.
The sun was just coming out as I got to the bluff, and by the time I was across the river and on the promenade, it was bright and low. The rain was very light, just enough to spot the pavement, but with the bright backlighting it was quite lovely.
I toyed with the idea of cutting it off at 14th, but decided to continue to Crowchild. And that was good. I find lately that on the longer run, I get more into a groove. Hardly a runner's high, but the rhythm becomes natural, and the achy bits go away.
And yet, at the end, it's so nice to stop. I got some really good stretching in, and talked awhile to my neighbour, who was also just finishing a run. Gotta say, the cool off was quicker in the cold weather, but the rain at least had stopped.
Distance: 10.06. Time: 54:12
Average speed: 5:23 min/km (11.1 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Light rainshower and 9C.
The Stairs was positively a traffic jam, with all the people running up and down, in all orientations. But I was past that quickly.
The sun was just coming out as I got to the bluff, and by the time I was across the river and on the promenade, it was bright and low. The rain was very light, just enough to spot the pavement, but with the bright backlighting it was quite lovely.
I toyed with the idea of cutting it off at 14th, but decided to continue to Crowchild. And that was good. I find lately that on the longer run, I get more into a groove. Hardly a runner's high, but the rhythm becomes natural, and the achy bits go away.
And yet, at the end, it's so nice to stop. I got some really good stretching in, and talked awhile to my neighbour, who was also just finishing a run. Gotta say, the cool off was quicker in the cold weather, but the rain at least had stopped.
Distance: 10.06. Time: 54:12
Average speed: 5:23 min/km (11.1 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Light rainshower and 9C.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Too Busy?
Too much going on this week, and I just didn't get out until today. I would have waited until tomorrow to do my usual distance, but Renee invited me out for a hike, and I think I'll take her up on it. It's been a tough summer on the hiking schedule.
Anyway, it's certainly fall weather. All these leaves are all over the streets - when the heck did that happen? But the chill and the slight dampness made it a perfect running morning. The sun just up, and already this town it boppin'.
I went west again, as usual. Down the bluff and across Memorial. It's down to one lane each way as they're rebuilding the median, so traffic is backed up and there's all kinds of activity. A big crowd was blocking the foot bridge, so I took the ramp to the trail on the berm. It looked to be some kind of walking tour thing. Everyone was listening intently to one person, but I was too far away to hear.
After that, just a nice run along Memorial. Some runners out. And nothing else notable. Just a nice run. Even the crowds that have been running up and down The Stairs weren't out.
And then I was home again. Laundry awaits...
Distance: 10.21. Time: 56:50
Average speed: 5:33 min/km (10.8 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Sunny and 8C.
Anyway, it's certainly fall weather. All these leaves are all over the streets - when the heck did that happen? But the chill and the slight dampness made it a perfect running morning. The sun just up, and already this town it boppin'.
I went west again, as usual. Down the bluff and across Memorial. It's down to one lane each way as they're rebuilding the median, so traffic is backed up and there's all kinds of activity. A big crowd was blocking the foot bridge, so I took the ramp to the trail on the berm. It looked to be some kind of walking tour thing. Everyone was listening intently to one person, but I was too far away to hear.
After that, just a nice run along Memorial. Some runners out. And nothing else notable. Just a nice run. Even the crowds that have been running up and down The Stairs weren't out.
And then I was home again. Laundry awaits...
Distance: 10.21. Time: 56:50
Average speed: 5:33 min/km (10.8 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Sunny and 8C.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Indian Summer?
It seems too early for that. I remember Indian Summer as being more of an October thing.
But the leaves are beginning to turn, and they're even falling. There are already a couple of trees looking a bit naked.
I was up early, and out the door before sunrise. It was cool, and as usual I was over dressed. But only a little. I wore the SP sweatshirt over a technical tee, which actually wasn't bad for the first half of the run. And it was easy to peel and wrap the sleeves around my waist for the last half.
I used to have a pair of gloves, light and stretchy. There weren't exactly cold weather gear, but for a morning like this, they would have been perfect. I have no idea where they are, but if I could have found them I probably would have been out a lot earlier.
It wasn't real busy on the paths, but there were some people out. With the sun out like that, I would have thought there would have been a lot more.
Something kicked in on the way back from Edworthy. I found that running faster was easier, felt more comfortable. And I was running pretty fast. I had two intervals at about a 4:50 pace. Usually I'm around 5:30, and even at the start this morning, I was barely below 6:00 at one point. I love when that happens.
Distance: 16.28. Time: 1:27:09
Average speed: 5:21 min/km. (11.2 kph)
Rest distance: 799.3 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.08 km. Total time: 1:36:09.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Sunny and 6C at the start, climbing to 9C at the end.
But the leaves are beginning to turn, and they're even falling. There are already a couple of trees looking a bit naked.
I was up early, and out the door before sunrise. It was cool, and as usual I was over dressed. But only a little. I wore the SP sweatshirt over a technical tee, which actually wasn't bad for the first half of the run. And it was easy to peel and wrap the sleeves around my waist for the last half.
I used to have a pair of gloves, light and stretchy. There weren't exactly cold weather gear, but for a morning like this, they would have been perfect. I have no idea where they are, but if I could have found them I probably would have been out a lot earlier.
It wasn't real busy on the paths, but there were some people out. With the sun out like that, I would have thought there would have been a lot more.
Something kicked in on the way back from Edworthy. I found that running faster was easier, felt more comfortable. And I was running pretty fast. I had two intervals at about a 4:50 pace. Usually I'm around 5:30, and even at the start this morning, I was barely below 6:00 at one point. I love when that happens.
Distance: 16.28. Time: 1:27:09
Average speed: 5:21 min/km. (11.2 kph)
Rest distance: 799.3 m. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.08 km. Total time: 1:36:09.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Sunny and 6C at the start, climbing to 9C at the end.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Right Back Into Warm Weather
And everyone is out there. There's even a troop of kids on The Stairs, with all the other groups going up and down. Plus there seemed to be a heck of a lot of in-lines out, too.
There were even a couple of rafts on the river, including one big one with a dozen or so people on it. What's interesting is the entourage of ducks that were following them. People are probably feeding them.
On the way back, I must have got in the middle of a running clinic of some kind. I've never been passed so often. They must have been doing intervals or something.
Tonight's run:
Distance: 9.84 km. Time: 55:05
Average speed: 5:35 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 23C
There were even a couple of rafts on the river, including one big one with a dozen or so people on it. What's interesting is the entourage of ducks that were following them. People are probably feeding them.
On the way back, I must have got in the middle of a running clinic of some kind. I've never been passed so often. They must have been doing intervals or something.
Tonight's run:
Distance: 9.84 km. Time: 55:05
Average speed: 5:35 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 23C
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Cloudy and Wet
And I like it that way. It wasn't really raining much by the time I got out. But nice and cool.
It was a nice smooth run, and felt fast. Kind capped a pretty good day.
Normally I find being drafted a little annoying, and from what I've heard, most runners don't like it. I don't like being the drafter, either. But tonight I kinda got into it. Someone started to come up behind me across from the Science Centre. They matched my pace pretty good, but I kept waiting for whoever it was to pass. And they weren't.
Finally, near the helicopter pad, she managed to get up beside me. And pull a little ahead. At that point, I wasn't going to let her get any farther ahead of me, and kept right with her. We finally parted when I turned onto the Jaipur Bridge.
By then I had settled into a pretty brisk pace, so kept it up all the way home.
Tonight's run:
Distance: 7.45 km. Time: 38:44
Average speed: 5:11 min/km (11.5 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 9C
It was a nice smooth run, and felt fast. Kind capped a pretty good day.
Normally I find being drafted a little annoying, and from what I've heard, most runners don't like it. I don't like being the drafter, either. But tonight I kinda got into it. Someone started to come up behind me across from the Science Centre. They matched my pace pretty good, but I kept waiting for whoever it was to pass. And they weren't.
Finally, near the helicopter pad, she managed to get up beside me. And pull a little ahead. At that point, I wasn't going to let her get any farther ahead of me, and kept right with her. We finally parted when I turned onto the Jaipur Bridge.
By then I had settled into a pretty brisk pace, so kept it up all the way home.
Tonight's run:
Distance: 7.45 km. Time: 38:44
Average speed: 5:11 min/km (11.5 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 9C
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Beautiful Sunday in the Fall
But it isn't really fall yet. Technically, it's still summer for a couple of weeks. And yet last Sunday I stood freezing in ankle deep snow, watching pipe and drum bands at the Canmore Highland Games. That was fun, but cold.
Anyway, this morning was lovely. Cool and overcast, so very nice for running. On The Path Under The Stairs, a pair of prairie chickens paced me for a few metres before dodging into the grass to hide.
Across the river and along the promenade, the usual troop of Chinatown elders out for their morning amble. Near the Greyhound station, I passed the crew that ran the Banff Jasper Relay. I believe most are in training for Chicago, which is only a month away.
After that, it got quiet. It was pretty early, I suppose. I did pass a few people below Spruce Cliff. At Edworthy, a few more were out, but it never really got busy.
Something loosened up a little near Extreme Bean. From there to home is about forty minutes, and I just had a ton of energy all of a sudden, and lots of speed (all being very subjective, as I noted in my last post). I had a strong finish.
Distance: 16.21. Time: 1:29:07
Average speed: 5:29 min/km. (10.9 kph)
Rest distance: 1.12 km. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.32 km. Total time: 1:38:07.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 7C at the start, climbing to 8C at the end.
Anyway, this morning was lovely. Cool and overcast, so very nice for running. On The Path Under The Stairs, a pair of prairie chickens paced me for a few metres before dodging into the grass to hide.
Across the river and along the promenade, the usual troop of Chinatown elders out for their morning amble. Near the Greyhound station, I passed the crew that ran the Banff Jasper Relay. I believe most are in training for Chicago, which is only a month away.
After that, it got quiet. It was pretty early, I suppose. I did pass a few people below Spruce Cliff. At Edworthy, a few more were out, but it never really got busy.
Something loosened up a little near Extreme Bean. From there to home is about forty minutes, and I just had a ton of energy all of a sudden, and lots of speed (all being very subjective, as I noted in my last post). I had a strong finish.
Distance: 16.21. Time: 1:29:07
Average speed: 5:29 min/km. (10.9 kph)
Rest distance: 1.12 km. Rest time: 9:00.
Total distance: 17.32 km. Total time: 1:38:07.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 7C at the start, climbing to 8C at the end.
Thursday, September 04, 2008
About the Same
That's what it usually turns out to be, no matter how fast or slow it feels. The last run felt plodding and slow. Tonight I felt fast and loose. But over the same distance, I ran both within a few seconds.
It's all relative, I suppose.
Tummy was a little upset when I got home tonight. I wondered if I was going to get out at all. But once I was out and moving, I felt fine. Too much coffee, I think. I've been trying to keep that consumption down a little.
It was such a gorgeous evening walking home from work. By the time I changed into my running gear and got back out, the sun was behind cloud and the temperature seemed to have dropped five degrees.
But that made it nice running. I only did the 7 km loop, but felt quite good.
I've come to the conclusion that old runners are not good for every day wear. Since getting the new shoes for regular wear, the aches in the feet have lessened considerably. The Sauconys will be the first to go.
Tonight's run:
Distance: 7.20 km. Time: 39:08
Average speed: 5:26 min/km (11.0 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C
It's all relative, I suppose.
Tummy was a little upset when I got home tonight. I wondered if I was going to get out at all. But once I was out and moving, I felt fine. Too much coffee, I think. I've been trying to keep that consumption down a little.
It was such a gorgeous evening walking home from work. By the time I changed into my running gear and got back out, the sun was behind cloud and the temperature seemed to have dropped five degrees.
But that made it nice running. I only did the 7 km loop, but felt quite good.
I've come to the conclusion that old runners are not good for every day wear. Since getting the new shoes for regular wear, the aches in the feet have lessened considerably. The Sauconys will be the first to go.
Tonight's run:
Distance: 7.20 km. Time: 39:08
Average speed: 5:26 min/km (11.0 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Late Again
Not really tired. Maybe a little lazy. I missed writing up the last run. Although that might not be a bad thing. Sometimes I don't have much to say.
I ran last Thursday, late in the day. A friend drove by just as I was walking up to the door, so after a quick shower we went for a coffee. After that, I just never got around to writing anything. 'Struth!
Sunday I was enjoying 2C temperatures in ankle-deep snow at the Canmore Highland Games. Well, maybe not that much snow, down in the town. It was certainly piling up on the mountains, though. So no Sunday run.
Tonight was just go home, change, go run. Although I did enjoy, and it was a little bit of a wake up just to get out for awhile.
Truth be known, my foot has been troubling me lately. I don't think it's the runners, although running probably aggravates it. There's a little bone in the ball of the foot that kinda floats there. It extents the leverage of the tendon to the big toe, to help in pushing off when walking or running. I slammed it pretty good a few years ago, and it was a couple of months before I could run. Apparently that little bone can fracture, and it can hurt quite a lot.
Anyway, that's sort of what it feels like, so I've been taking it very easy. I have decent shoes now, too, and I find that helps.
So I'll keep the running light and see what goes.
Last Thursday's run:
Distance: 10.08 km. Time: 57:04
Average speed: 5:39 min/km (10.6 kph).
Tonight;s run:
Distance: 7.20 km. Time: 40:01
Average speed: 5:33 min/km (10.8 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C
I ran last Thursday, late in the day. A friend drove by just as I was walking up to the door, so after a quick shower we went for a coffee. After that, I just never got around to writing anything. 'Struth!
Sunday I was enjoying 2C temperatures in ankle-deep snow at the Canmore Highland Games. Well, maybe not that much snow, down in the town. It was certainly piling up on the mountains, though. So no Sunday run.
Tonight was just go home, change, go run. Although I did enjoy, and it was a little bit of a wake up just to get out for awhile.
Truth be known, my foot has been troubling me lately. I don't think it's the runners, although running probably aggravates it. There's a little bone in the ball of the foot that kinda floats there. It extents the leverage of the tendon to the big toe, to help in pushing off when walking or running. I slammed it pretty good a few years ago, and it was a couple of months before I could run. Apparently that little bone can fracture, and it can hurt quite a lot.
Anyway, that's sort of what it feels like, so I've been taking it very easy. I have decent shoes now, too, and I find that helps.
So I'll keep the running light and see what goes.
Last Thursday's run:
Distance: 10.08 km. Time: 57:04
Average speed: 5:39 min/km (10.6 kph).
Tonight;s run:
Distance: 7.20 km. Time: 40:01
Average speed: 5:33 min/km (10.8 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Where Did Summer Go?
It feels like I missed it. It's already the last week in August. They were taking down the Shakespeare in the Park stage already. It's getting cool in the evenings, and it's dark by 8:00. Bummer
Nice night for running. The temperature never got too high, given that it poured until early afternoon, and the sun, while bright for the rest of the day, never really got things warm. Perfect running weather.
I headed down the usual way, to 14th and back. I was late enough, that traffic was steady on the trails, while not being totally deserted. It was a good strong run.
Distance: 7.20 km. Time: 40:19
Average speed: 5:36 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C
Nice night for running. The temperature never got too high, given that it poured until early afternoon, and the sun, while bright for the rest of the day, never really got things warm. Perfect running weather.
I headed down the usual way, to 14th and back. I was late enough, that traffic was steady on the trails, while not being totally deserted. It was a good strong run.
Distance: 7.20 km. Time: 40:19
Average speed: 5:36 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 15C
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Shoulda Took the Day Off
It wasn't that bad as far as running goes. But something I had for lunch yesterday did not agree. I felt rotten last night, didn't sleep, and felt rotten this morning. I wanted to be out on the paths early in case it got hot, but couldn't get going until late. Bleah.
But I did get out. Down and across the bridge to Prince's Island, passing a wagon-load of seven very young puppies. Labrador cross, I'd guess, and if they're as young as they seemed, they are going to be very big dogs when they're grown. Cute.
After that I was on to the promenade, and just keeping moving. Not a lot of energy, and my innards weren't in the best of shape. Much of the run was just keeping it moving. It wasn't hard, but nothing memorable enough, aside from the puppies to be noteable. By the time I had gone three quarters of the way, I would have been quite happy to be done.
But I got through that, and finished.
From yesterday, Department of Double Takes:
She stood on the sidewalk, a stunning thirty-something, all tanned legs and blond hair. Lean and athletic, in running shorts, Lululemon top and green accentuated running shoes, she stood tall on one leg, the other pulled tight heel-to-buttock in a perfectly balanced quad stretch. The Nordic angles of her face were accentuated by the hollowing of her cheeks as she pulled mightily on a cigarette.
Wha…?
She looked like a runner, acted like a runner, dressed like a runner. But that cigarette just didn't fit. And for her, it wasn't just a casual puff or two. It was suck, inhale, exhale, suck, inhale, exhale, denying entry into her lungs of any air untainted by combustion particulates.
Three blocks past, I was still glancing over my shoulder. It was a jarring juxtaposition.
Distance: 16.50. Time: 1:33:36
Average speed: 5:40 min/km. (10.6 kph)
Rest distance: 941.0 m. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.44 km. Total time: 1:43:36.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 20C at the start, cloudy and 24C at the end.
But I did get out. Down and across the bridge to Prince's Island, passing a wagon-load of seven very young puppies. Labrador cross, I'd guess, and if they're as young as they seemed, they are going to be very big dogs when they're grown. Cute.
After that I was on to the promenade, and just keeping moving. Not a lot of energy, and my innards weren't in the best of shape. Much of the run was just keeping it moving. It wasn't hard, but nothing memorable enough, aside from the puppies to be noteable. By the time I had gone three quarters of the way, I would have been quite happy to be done.
But I got through that, and finished.
From yesterday, Department of Double Takes:
She stood on the sidewalk, a stunning thirty-something, all tanned legs and blond hair. Lean and athletic, in running shorts, Lululemon top and green accentuated running shoes, she stood tall on one leg, the other pulled tight heel-to-buttock in a perfectly balanced quad stretch. The Nordic angles of her face were accentuated by the hollowing of her cheeks as she pulled mightily on a cigarette.
Wha…?
She looked like a runner, acted like a runner, dressed like a runner. But that cigarette just didn't fit. And for her, it wasn't just a casual puff or two. It was suck, inhale, exhale, suck, inhale, exhale, denying entry into her lungs of any air untainted by combustion particulates.
Three blocks past, I was still glancing over my shoulder. It was a jarring juxtaposition.
Distance: 16.50. Time: 1:33:36
Average speed: 5:40 min/km. (10.6 kph)
Rest distance: 941.0 m. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.44 km. Total time: 1:43:36.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 20C at the start, cloudy and 24C at the end.
Friday, August 22, 2008
I Had a Busy Week
A great week - productive and fun. Even a little intense, certainly focused. I love it.
I worked late last night and besides, it rained cats and dogs, so my Thursday run didn't happen. I made it up tonight.
It felt fast, but I don't think I was all that gettin' goin'. The trails were quiet, but then I've found that whenever I'm out during dinner time.
I was drafted along the promenade. Someone came up behind me just as I passed the C-Train bridge, and didn't pass, and didn't fall back. Just stayed behind and a little to the left, so that it felt like she (as it turned out) was breathing down my neck. It's a little disconcerting.
I didn't take The Path Under The Stairs too hard, but once on top of the bluff, I found my stride lengthening considerably.
Lovely run.
Distance: 7.18 km. Time: 39:42
Average speed: 5:31 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 19C
I worked late last night and besides, it rained cats and dogs, so my Thursday run didn't happen. I made it up tonight.
It felt fast, but I don't think I was all that gettin' goin'. The trails were quiet, but then I've found that whenever I'm out during dinner time.
I was drafted along the promenade. Someone came up behind me just as I passed the C-Train bridge, and didn't pass, and didn't fall back. Just stayed behind and a little to the left, so that it felt like she (as it turned out) was breathing down my neck. It's a little disconcerting.
I didn't take The Path Under The Stairs too hard, but once on top of the bluff, I found my stride lengthening considerably.
Lovely run.
Distance: 7.18 km. Time: 39:42
Average speed: 5:31 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Mainly sunny and 19C
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
The End of a Very Good Day
A very busy day, too. The new job is getting a little intense, and busy, and surprisingly, fun. My to-do list seemed to grow exponentially, yet I felt productive, and I seemed to get a lot done.
And with all that behind me, a good run was a perfect way to start the evening.
The heat wasn't nearly as intense as yesterday. I got to the bluff to find a veritable traffic jam on The Stairs, with all the fitness groups on it. Even The Path was busy.
I got down to the bottom, weaving through the crowd, and on to the bridge over Memorial, then down the ramp and on the path by the river. It was a quieter run, given the time of day, but still busy. I thought about cutting it short at 14th, but felt good enough to continue to Crowchild again.
At the soccer field by the Boy Scouts clubhouse, there's what I think is an osprey nest on one of the light poles. And one agitated osprey squawking furiously over the soccer game going on below.
On the other side of the river, it was quieter, with a few runners and cyclists. Even the promenade was quiet until I got close to Eau Claire. A big crowd covered the lawn in front of the Shakespeare stage, and the foot bridge back to the curling club was busy too.
I pushed hard up The Path to the top of the bluff. I think I'm strengthening a little as this climb seems to be faster, if not easier.
And then home for dinner.
Distance: 10.25 km. Time: 57:34
Average speed: 5:36 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 24C
And with all that behind me, a good run was a perfect way to start the evening.
The heat wasn't nearly as intense as yesterday. I got to the bluff to find a veritable traffic jam on The Stairs, with all the fitness groups on it. Even The Path was busy.
I got down to the bottom, weaving through the crowd, and on to the bridge over Memorial, then down the ramp and on the path by the river. It was a quieter run, given the time of day, but still busy. I thought about cutting it short at 14th, but felt good enough to continue to Crowchild again.
At the soccer field by the Boy Scouts clubhouse, there's what I think is an osprey nest on one of the light poles. And one agitated osprey squawking furiously over the soccer game going on below.
On the other side of the river, it was quieter, with a few runners and cyclists. Even the promenade was quiet until I got close to Eau Claire. A big crowd covered the lawn in front of the Shakespeare stage, and the foot bridge back to the curling club was busy too.
I pushed hard up The Path to the top of the bluff. I think I'm strengthening a little as this climb seems to be faster, if not easier.
And then home for dinner.
Distance: 10.25 km. Time: 57:34
Average speed: 5:36 min/km (10.7 kph).
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Cloudy and 24C
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Trying to Beat the Heat
Since the forecast is for hot days ahead, I thought I'd try to get out soon as possible and maybe beat the heat. Which works against my philosophy of no alarm clocks on the weekend.
But I did wake up fairly early and was out as soon as I was awake. It wasn't hot, or even warm, but for that time of morning, I would expect it to be a little cooler. Even so, very nice.
It was a fast run, time-flow-wise. I didn't think I was too head-down and focused, but time and distance went by pretty quick. I found myself not really feeling fast, but kind of moving along. Hard to describe.
Along the way someone returned my good morning by name. I have no idea who she was, since I wasn't really focused on her, and she was gone past before I realized I'd heard my name.
They have torn up the pedestrian path from the Parkdale-3rd Avenue corner to the public washrooms at Edworthy. I took to the grass for a while, then on to the other path.
Across the bridge at Edworthy, and over the tracks. The gate was locked across the path, and barriers were up. A sign said the path was closed. I took the detour through the bush, and was on it. Or rather where the path was supposed to be. Several yards had been removed, and a trench made for the new one. There were several chuncks of path missing along the bottom of Spruce Cliff, and a lot of barriers to go around.
Once I got past the rail crossing, it seems to get easier again. I found myself in that long-stride, lopping gait that I used to use when I first started running. It seems easier on the legs, and faster somehow. But I feel it more in the walk breaks.
Just past Crowchild, I began to meet the Sunday morning groups, and it happened again. Someone in one of the groups waved at me and said good morning by name. Again, no idea who.
For the rest of the run, just pushing through, not thinking, not aware, just present and being in the run. Hitting The Path Under The Stairs with almost nothing, so taking it at a long slow shuffle. And then finishing down 4th Street, pushing the long stride even longer.
Distance: 15.82. Time: 1:32:03
Average speed: 5:48 min/km. (10.0 kph)
Rest distance: 1.44 m. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.26 km. Total time: 1:42:03.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 15C at the start, 19C at the end.
But I did wake up fairly early and was out as soon as I was awake. It wasn't hot, or even warm, but for that time of morning, I would expect it to be a little cooler. Even so, very nice.
It was a fast run, time-flow-wise. I didn't think I was too head-down and focused, but time and distance went by pretty quick. I found myself not really feeling fast, but kind of moving along. Hard to describe.
Along the way someone returned my good morning by name. I have no idea who she was, since I wasn't really focused on her, and she was gone past before I realized I'd heard my name.
They have torn up the pedestrian path from the Parkdale-3rd Avenue corner to the public washrooms at Edworthy. I took to the grass for a while, then on to the other path.
Across the bridge at Edworthy, and over the tracks. The gate was locked across the path, and barriers were up. A sign said the path was closed. I took the detour through the bush, and was on it. Or rather where the path was supposed to be. Several yards had been removed, and a trench made for the new one. There were several chuncks of path missing along the bottom of Spruce Cliff, and a lot of barriers to go around.
Once I got past the rail crossing, it seems to get easier again. I found myself in that long-stride, lopping gait that I used to use when I first started running. It seems easier on the legs, and faster somehow. But I feel it more in the walk breaks.
Just past Crowchild, I began to meet the Sunday morning groups, and it happened again. Someone in one of the groups waved at me and said good morning by name. Again, no idea who.
For the rest of the run, just pushing through, not thinking, not aware, just present and being in the run. Hitting The Path Under The Stairs with almost nothing, so taking it at a long slow shuffle. And then finishing down 4th Street, pushing the long stride even longer.
Distance: 15.82. Time: 1:32:03
Average speed: 5:48 min/km. (10.0 kph)
Rest distance: 1.44 m. Rest time: 10:00.
Total distance: 17.26 km. Total time: 1:42:03.
Shoes: Asics GT-2130.
Weather: Partly cloudy and 15C at the start, 19C at the end.
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