Sunday, May 31, 2009

13.1...WE ARE DONE!!!

Congratulations!  You did it!  I am very proud of each of you...good job!!  I am sorry to say that you will have homework this week...here goes:

Monday Brisk walk
Tuesday Easy walk
Wednesday Cross Train
Thursday 2 mile run/walk
Friday Brisk walk
Saturday 3 mile run/walk
Sunday Rest

This should give you a good amount of exercise while still keeping in recovery mode.  Try not to overdo it, but listen to your body and do what you feel is comfortable.  Throughout this summer you may find it beneficial to keep with a regular running/walking regimen.  This will help next fall when we start training for our next half!!!

It has been an honor training with you!  Thanks for making this such a wonderful experience. Until this fall...

13.1...here we come...again!!!

Friday, May 29, 2009

13.1...Here We Are!!!

Tomorrow is the big day and I hope you are all ready for a great time!  Be sure to check out the weather and dress appropriately.  Also, refer to your registration information for times and address of where to start the race.  There are a few of us meeting at my house at 5:45am tomorrow morning to drive over together.  If you are interested, be at my house at 5:45am.  My car is full, but we can caravan over.  

There are still a few visor's to be picked up.  They are on my front porch.  

TRAINER TIP:

I have had a few questions about breakfast on race day.  I prefer to follow my normal breakfast routine which is a bagel or granola bar.  I would recommend that you don't indulge in a big breakfast, but you will need to eat enough to fuel you throughout the race.  You could add a piece of fruit too.  

Get a good night's sleep!  Try to get to bed at a decent time and give yourself enough time to get up and get ready without being overly rushed.  You want to get to the start line in the best of circumstances and a good night's rest is a perfect start to the day.  

Leave for the race with plenty of time.  There is nothing more stressful than a race starting and you are still waiting in line for your packet or for the bathroom.  Give yourselves enough time to get there, park, use the bathroom, get your timing chips and get set to run!  

HAVE FUN!!!  In the end you will forget your time and the pain and fatigue, but you won't forget how you felt emotionally!  Have a good time.  Allow yourselves to do your best without pressuring yourselves too much!  Again...HAVE FUN!!!

13.1...Here We Come!!!

Sunday, May 24, 2009

The Final Push...

6 days to go...can you believe it??? It seems like just yesterday that I was completing my final week of training before my 1st half marathon. I was nervous and excited at the same time. I am really proud of each of you...whether you are participating in the race or doing it on your own. It is a major accomplishment!! I am changing the homework for the next few days, so here goes...

Sunday Rest
Monday Run/Walk 5 Miles
Tuesday Run/Walk 4 Miles
Wednesday Run/Walk 3 Miles
Thursday REST
Friday REST
Saturday 13.1...Here We Come!!!


Please be sure to make yourselves aware of where and when to pick up your packets. Also, check out the information carefully as to where to go for the race and what time to pick up your racing chip. IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED IN MEETING AT MY HOUSE BEFORE THE RACE, I will send an email to let you know what time to meet. It will be bright and early. If you have any questions...please let me know.

TRAINER TIP:
Please be sure to follow the homework and rest the two final days. This is called "tapering". It helps your body to recover before a big race. Tapering down on you workout and resting a few days before you race really helps with your endurance.
Dont change your eating habits this week. But be sure to drink a lot of water and cut back on soda. You can "carb up" on Friday if you feel the need. I'm not a big fan, but a lot of people feel it makes a big difference in their performance. Eat a small breakfast before the race. Don't forget to make a massage appointment if you want one. They will fill up fast.

13.1...Here We Come!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Arroyo Trail

Here is the route for tomorrow for those of you that are meeting at my house:

Take the Isabel trail.  Turn right onto Stanley.  After you cross the Arroyo (before the am/pm station) look to your right and you will see a trail.  This is the Arroyo trail.  Stay on this trail that goes behind Granada High and the church.  Cross the street at Holmes and stay on the trail.  It weaves by Robertson Park and behind Our Savior's church.  Go under the road (Concannon) and it whips you back up onto Concannon.  Follow that trail til you get to Wente Road.  Turn left there and follow that road until it dead ends onto Arroyo Rd.  Cross Arroyo and go to Superior Street.  Turn right and stay on that til you get to Lexington.  Turn right there and follow that back to my house.  

That's right...10 miles! 

See you then!

13.1...here we come!

Monday, May 11, 2009

A Perfect 10!!

Hi girls.  This week is a milestone week...10 miles!!  I can't believe we have come this far.  What a great accomplishment!!  I am going to give you a lot of information in this post so read through it carefully.  I am going to post the homework for this week and next week because I will be out of town next week.  So here is the homework for THIS WEEK...May 13:


RUNNERS

Wednesday Run 10 Miles
Thursday Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 5 Miles
Saturday Run 3 Miles or Crosstrain
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 5 Miles PLUS Strength Train
Tuesday Rest or EASY Run


WALKERS:

Wednesday Walk 10 Miles
Thursday 50 Minute Walk
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 50 Minute Walk PLUS Strength
Sunday Rest
Monday 1 Hour Walk
Tuesday Rest

Now here is the homework for NEXT WEEK...May 20:


RUNNERS

Wednesday Run 11 Miles
Thursday Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 5 Miles
Saturday Run 3 Miles or Crosstrain
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 5 Miles PLUS Strength Train
Tuesday Rest or EASY Run


WALKERS:

Wednesday Walk 11 Miles
Thursday 50 Minute Walk
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 50 Minute Walk PLUS Strength
Sunday Rest
Monday 1 Hour Walk
Tuesday Rest


This will put us to the week before our race.  I will make a post that last week with last minute instructions and thoughts.  Remember that the last week is a taper down week for us.  Don't plan to do too much running or exercising that week.  

TRAINER TIP OF THE WEEK:
Take your time!  Enjoy these last two big runs!  Let your body settle into your natural rhythm and give yourself permission to relax and enjoy it!  Yes...it is a lot of hard work, but you will feel a lot better at the end of your run if you can settle into your own natural pace and rhythm!  Running can be therapeutic...try to find that side of it!!


Last call for anyone who want visors.  I am sending the order in on Wednesday.  Let me know if you would like one!

13.1...Here We Come!!!



Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Nine...

This week we are doing 9 miles.  I am so impressed with each of you and your committment to this training process.  Keep up the good work!  Here is the homework for this week:


RUNNERS

Wednesday Run 9 Miles
Thursday Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 5 Miles
Saturday Run 3 Miles or Crosstrain
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 5 Miles PLUS Strength Train
Tuesday Rest or EASY Run


WALKERS:

Wednesday Walk 9 Miles
Thursday 50 Minute Walk
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 50 Minute Walk PLUS Strength
Sunday Rest
Monday 1 Hour Walk
Tuesday Rest


TRAINER TIP OF THE WEEK:

Listen to your body.  We are getting up into pretty big mileage.  Please be in tune with your body.  Now is a time that injury can happen, so be smart.  If you are feeling fatigued, take it easy on that day's workout.  If you feel pain (not just discomfort, like after a big run) don't just keep pushing.  A lot of times it can be something that can be taken care of with a little rest and ice.  Take it from me...listen to your body!  It isn't worth the months of rehab.  


If anyone is interested in ordering a custom designed black visor that has "Rockin' Runners" embroidered on the front and "13.1...here we come!" on the side embellished with some pretty rhinestones, let me know.  I am going to be ordering soon.  They will be $13.  

13.1...here we come!

Sunday, April 26, 2009

8 is Great...Part 2!

Hi girls!  I hope everyone was able to get in their big walk/run last week.  I missed a lot of you on Wednesday.  It was very hot and I am assuming that you decided to do your big work out at a different time.  This week we are doing 8 miles again.  We will have some repeats over the next couple of week.  This just gives our bodies time to adjust and heal.  I am really proud of you!  Keep up the good work!  Here is the homework this week:


RUNNERS

Wednesday Run 8 Miles
Thursday Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 5 Miles
Saturday Run 3 Miles or Crosstrain
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 5 Miles PLUS Strength Train
Tuesday Rest or EASY Run


WALKERS:

Wednesday Walk 8 Miles
Thursday 50 Minute Walk
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 50 Minute Walk PLUS Strength
Sunday Rest
Monday 1 Hour Walk
Tuesday Rest

TRAINER TIP OF THE WEEK:
Do not underestimate the power of homework.  We are doing a repeat of last week because it is important for your body to adjust to the stress you are putting on it.  Please DO NOT think that because you are repeating a week that this means that you have the week off!  This is absolutely important that you do the homework and not neglect your workouts.  It will pay off on May 30!  Keep hydrated on your runs (especially as the weather gets warmer) and don't forget to eat!  

If you have not gotten and email confirmation for the race and you signed up...please let me know.  I am going to call tomorrow to confirm.  Please check to see if your check cleared or your credit card was charged before you let me know.  That way I can let the people know that payment was received.  Tomorrow is the deadline for this...after that I will let you check it out on your own.  

Have a great week!!
13.1...Here We Come!!!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

8 IS GREAT!!

WOW!! 8 miles!  Can you believe it?  I hope you all had a nice Easter and spring break!  Hopefully you were able to get a few work outs in!  Here is the homework for this week:

RUNNERS

Wednesday Run 8 Miles
Thursday Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 5 Miles
Saturday Run 3 Miles or Crosstrain
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 5 Miles PLUS Strength Train
Tuesday Rest or EASY Run


WALKERS:

Wednesday Walk 8 Miles
Thursday 50 Minute Walk
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 50 Minute Walk PLUS Strength
Sunday Rest
Monday 1 Hour Walk
Tuesday Rest

TRAINER TIP:

We are moving up to these longer distances.  DRINK a lot of water an don't forget that you need to eat a little bit of extra protein to supplement what you will burn while exercising.  

For you runners....notice that you have an extra day of rest on Tuesday.  You can do an EASY run.  This means a slow, short run!  Don't over do it.  

For you walkers...keep up the good work.  

ONE LAST NOTE:  I have been getting some questions about injuries. Now that we are in these longer milages, you will notice your body may not be taking it as easily as the shorter milages. It is SO important to stretch BEFORE and AFTER your workout.  Your feet, ankles and legs take the brunt of a big workout, so be sure to stretch those areas a lot.  If your feet or heels are aching (especially in the morning when you step out of bed), please take it easy and use ice after your work outs.  Listen to your body...if you need to take it slow or go shorter on your runs/walks that is fine.  STRETCH, STRETCH, and more STRETCH!!

Also, if you have not received an email confirmation from SEE JANE RUN please check to see if your check cleared or your credit card was charged.  Then let me know and I will contact them.  If you did receive your confirmation, keep track of it.  You will need to pick up your packet during the week before the race. 

13.1...here we come!!!

Monday, April 13, 2009

Happy Spring Break!

Hi girls.  We won't be having our running group this week.  Please repeat the homework from last week.  This will give you an opportunity to catch up if you are behind.

TRAINER TIP:
Take it easy this week.  Complete the assigned distances but use this week to take it easy on speed.  This will give your body a little rest and a well needed break.  

Monday, April 6, 2009

7th Heaven!!

We are cruisin'  right along.  7 miles this week...we are really getting up there.  Here is the homework this week:

RUNNERS

Wednesday Run 7 Miles
Thursday Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 4.5 Miles
Saturday Run 3 Miles or Crosstrain
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 4.5 Miles PLUS Strength Train
Tuesday 50 Minute Cross


WALKERS:

Wednesday Walk 7 Miles
Thursday 45 Minute Walk
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 45 Minute Walk PLUS Strength
Sunday Rest
Monday 1 Hour Walk
Tuesday Rest


Please make yourselves aware of the route we are going to do this week.  We are doing what I call the "Isabel Trail".  Here are the directions:

From my house go to the end of the street (like we were going to Sycamore Grove) follow it around to the right.  Turn right on Lexington.  Turn Left on Trinity Hills.  Turn right on Woodhollow.  Turn left on Alden Lane.  Follow this to the dead end.  Just before you reach Isabel Avenue turn right onto the trail.  Follow this trail to the stop sign at Stanley Blvd.  Turn around and come back.  Once on Alden Lane, follow it to Holmes where you will turn right. Keep there until you reach Wetmore (which is where we come back from Sycamore Grove) and follow the sidewalk around to my house.  

We will do the same workout this week and next week.  We will not meet as a group next week as it is spring break.  Be sure to do the workout so we can stay on track.  

TRAINER TIP:

From here on out, I want you to stick to the homework as I assign it.  I don't want you to try to push it any harder than you are used to.  We are reaching the distances that can cause injury due to overuse!  That is the last thing we want to deal with!  

DONT forget to keep hydrated.  

DO eat something small before your "big" workouts. Even if you aren't in the mood to eat, you need  to fuel your body.  A small handful of nuts, half of a bagel, a string cheese, etc. are good ideas.  

DONT forget to stretch especially now that we are getting into these higher mileage workouts.  


I am really proud of all of you!  Keep up the good work!!

13.1...Here We Come!



Monday, March 30, 2009

OOPS!

Ignore the part in the last post that talks about repeating the homework next week.  Spring break isn't until the next week!  Just follow the homework this week and I will post new homework the next week!

13.1...here we come!!

Six of One, Half Dozen of Another

6 miles this week.  It seems like just yesterday that we were talking about 1 mile and now we are up to 6 miles...yay!!  Here is the homework for this week:

RUNNERS

Wednesday Run 6 Miles
Thursday 1 Hour Strength and Stretch
Friday 3.5 Mile run
Saturday 1 Hour Cross Train
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 3.5 Miles
Tuesday 45 Minute Cross Train


WALKERS

Wednesday Walk 6 Miles
Thursday 45 Minute Cross Train
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 45 Minute Walk
Sunday Rest
Monday 1 hour Walk
Tuesday Rest


The homework will be the same for this week and next week as we will be having spring break next week, so we won't meet as a group.  I want you to do the 6 miles both weeks and follow the same homework schedule.  

On Wednesday, we are going to do one of my favorite trails.  It is a 6 mile, beautiful trail. It is very well paved, so strollers will be fine.  There is also a nice gravel path for those of us that prefer that.  Meet at my house at 9am sharp.  We are starting to get into these longer runs, so it is important that we start on time.  See you then!

TRAINER TIP OF THE WEEK:

Both groups have "cross training" in their homework this week.  You do not need a gym membership to cross train.  You can go on a bike ride, swim laps or jump rope.  Anything to get your heart rate elevated.  Here are some specific ideas on how to cross train with out a gym.

Alternating Lunges-do 10 on each side 3 times (sets).  Remember to keep your knee in line with your foot and ankle.  Be sure to bend the BACK knee so your front knee does not extend in front of the foot.

Mountain Climbers-get down in push up position, with your body completely in line (don't stick your booty in the air).  Alternate bringing your knee to your chest 10 times on each side. Do 3 sets of these.  

Planks-get down in push up position.  Hold that position for 30 seconds.  You can also come down onto your elbows and knees if you want.  Do this 3 times.  If you can, increase the time as you get more comfortable.

Wall Squats-stand against a wall.  Squat down like you are going to sit in a chair.  Hold that position for 30 seconds.  Be sure that your legs are at a 90 degree angle.  Do this 3 times. Increase the time when comfortable.  

Jumping Jacks-this is great for the heart.  Do 2 minutes of jumping jacks.  Do 3 sets of these. Be sure rest between each set.

Weight Training-if you have weights do some weight training.  If you have questions about this, please email me and I will give you more details.  Remember that muscle works 24/7 in burning calories.  Weight training is a very important part of daily exercise and weight management.

HAVE A GREAT WEEK!

13.1...here we come!

Monday, March 23, 2009

High Five!!!

We are on week 5.  I am really proud of each of you and your accomplishments! Keep up the good work!  The registration forms have been sent in for our See Jane Run event on May 30. We have 23 runners/walkers participating from our group!  I am really excited!  Be looking for information from See Jane Run in your email.  Here is the homework for this week...


Walkers:

Wednesday Walk 5 Miles
Thursday 45 Minute Walk
Friday 1 Hour Walk
Saturday 30 Minute Walk
Sunday Rest
Monday 45 Minute Walk
Tuesday Rest


Runners:

Wednesday Run 5 Miles
Thursday 1 Hour Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 3.5 Miles
Saturday Run 2 miles or 1 Hour Cross
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 3.5 Miles
Tuesday 45 Minute Cross


Trainer Tip of the Week:

Top 10 Mistakes in Training

10. Underestimate Stretching
9. Lack of Support
8. Lack of Belief
7. Motivation
6. Wrong Goal
5. Wrong Training Program
4. Starting Too Fast
3. Lack of Knowledge
2. Hydration
1. Injury

I think we are doing a good job avoiding most of these mistakes.  I want to touch on a few:

#8 Lack of Belief...this can be a difficult one.  Just look at your progress over the past 4 weeks.  You have each improved so much.  Believe in yourself...you really can do it!

#4  Starting too Fast...don't overdo it!  Try to stay within the homework given.  On your "long run" day, resist the temptation to "go the extra mile".  There are reasons that you are gradually increasing your distance.  

#2  Hydration...water, water, water!!  Don't forget to drink during your run AND after! 


Keep up the good work!!

13.1...Here We Come!!







Sunday, March 15, 2009

Going Strong...

We are up and going stong with our half marathon group! I am really proud of you girls! This week we are on our 4 mile big run and it is also time to commit for the race. Please have your registration form and payment to me by tomorrow night. Here is the homework for this week...

WALKERS:

Wednesday Walk 4 Miles
Thursday Walk 45 Minutes Brisk
Friday Walk 30 Minutes
Saturday Walk 45 Minutes Brisk
Sunday Rest
Monday Walk 45 Minutes
Tuesday Rest


RUNNERS:

Wednesday Run 4 Miles
Thursday 1 Hour Stretch and Strengthen
Friday Run 3 Miles
Saturday Run 2 Miles or 1 Hour Cross Training
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 3 Miles
Tuesday 45 Minute Cross Training


TRAINER TIP OF THE WEEK:

Don't pigeon hole yourselves.  Just because you consider yourself a "walker" doesn't mean that you can't try to run at times.  On the flip side, just because you are a "runner" doesn't mean you can't walk when you get tired.  The most important thing you can do is challenge yourself!

Don't forget that you need to have your registration to me by Monday night.  If I am not home, please leave it under the pot by my front door.  I need to mail it in by Tuesday, so please have the registration to me by Monday night.  So far I have gotten registration forms from:

Rebecca
Julie
Janet 
Erin
Samantha
Amy 
Lynette

I am hoping to get a lot more sign ups...let me know if you have any questions.

13.1...Here We Come!!

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

TIME TO COMMIT!!

Now is the time to sign up for our half marathon. The "See Jane Run" half marathon is on May 30. We need to get our registration forms in this week. You need to go to www.seejanerun.com Click on events and half marathon and 5K. Click on "download registration for Bay Area". Print that out and fill it out. Attach a check for $76.50 or write credit card information and give it to me by next Monday. DO NOT register online or you will not receive the discount. BE SURE that you are going to do the race because the fees are not refundable or transferrable. Let me know if you have any questions.

13.1...here we come!!

Sunday, March 8, 2009

We're Back in the Running...

Hi girls.  I hope you all have had a nice week and were able to do the homework.  We are on week 3 of our training.  Now is the time that things start ramping up.  We will do 3 miles this week. Once you have done that distance it is a good gauge of things to come.  PLEASE continue to do the homework. Although it may not be that exciting, it is very important for your training.  It helps you build endurance which will make your experience on May 30 a very satisfying one.  Here is the homework for this week.  

RUNNERS:
Wednesday Run 3 miles
Thursday 45 Minute Stretch and Strengthen
Friday 60 Minute Cross Train
Saturday 45 Minute Brisk Walk
Sunday Rest
Monday Run 1 Mile
Tuesday 45 Minute Cross

WALKERS:
Wednesday Walk 3 Miles
Thursday Walk 45 Minutes
Friday Walk 30 Minutes
Saturday Walk 45 Minutes
Sunday Rest
Monday Walk 30 Minute
Tuesday Rest

TRAINER TIP OF THE WEEK:
If you are running, be sure to do an "interval" about every 10 minutes.  This means that you should run faster so you can raise your heart rate.  You can do this for about 1 minute, but never more than 2 minutes.  Try to do it on a 10 minute turnaround.  This would mean that you run at your normal pace for 9 minutes and run faster for 1 minute.  Then resume your normal pace for 8 minutes and run faster for 2 minutes.  Again, resume your normal pace for 9 minutes and fun faster for 1 minutes and so on and so on.  If you are feeling dizzy or sick to your stomach after the interval, give it a rest for 10 minutes solid, then try to resume the interval again.  If you raise your heart rate too high for too long these may be your symptoms.  Give it a try this week.  If you can keep it up, even if you do 1 or 2 intervals per run, you will see a big improvement in your speed, endurance and overall health.

For the walkers, try to pick up your pace.  Make sure you get your heart rate up.  You will know that your heart rate is elevated when you have a hard time carrying on a conversation.  This takes concerted effort to keep the heart rate up when you are walking.  Don't get lulled into making your pace a "stroll" instead of a brisk walk.  On the long walk on Wednesday, be sure to make this your most effective and quickest walk.  Pump your arms and pick up your feet.  You will notice a big improvement in your pace, endurance and overall health.

I need to know who is planning on doing the race by Wednesday.  You can check out the link at  

 
http://www.halfmarathons.net/usa_half_marathons_california_see_jane_run_half_marathon.html

This event will sell out so I need a firm commitment by Wednesday night.  I will plan to sign up on Thursday.  I will contact the race to find out about a 10% discount.  I will post more information when I get in touch with the race committee.  

13.1...Here We Come!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Rain, rain GO AWAY!!

Okay...I know we need the rain, but I am sick of it!!  Because of the tremendous amount of rain we are supposed to get tonight and tomorrow, we will have to cancel our training tomorrow.  If you have access to a gym or treadmill, you can do your walk or run there.  If not, you can postpone tomorrow's big run or walk until Saturday.  It is supposed to be better weather then.  If you are one that likes to exercise in the rain...have at it!  If you want to do Sycamore Grove, feel free to park at my house and use my railing for stretching.  See you next Wednesday!

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Get Set...

Hi everyone!!  You all did a great job last week.  In fact, many of you were over achievers and did 2 miles instead of 1.  We had quite a few people come to the training and that makes it fun and easier to exercise.  Even if you are walking or running alone there is an energy that is present when a large group of people are working toward the same goal.  I hope the homework went well for everyone.  Please do your best to keep up with the workouts.  If you miss a day, don't worry about it.  Just try to pick it up the next day.  Here is the homework for this week:

WALKERS:
 
Wednesday  Walk 2 Miles
Thursday      Walk 35 Minutes Easy
Friday           Walk 25 Minutes Brisk
Saturday       Walk 35 Minutes Easy
Sunday         Rest
Monday         Walk 35 Minutes Brisk
Tuesday         Rest


RUNNERS:

Wednesday      Run  2 Miles
Thursday          35 Minutes Stretch and Strengthen
Friday              50 Minutes Cross Training
Saturday          35 Minute Brisk Walk
Sunday             Rest
Monday            1 Mile Run
Tuesday            35 Minutes Cross Training

If you would like to do more training than this, that is fine.  Just don't forget to rest on rest days and don't overdo it!  For those of you that have completed a half marathon already, you can up your runs to 3 miles if you want.  

TRAINER TIPS OF THE WEEK:

When you are running your feet should be quiet.  It is best if you "roll" your foot as you run. This is one way that you can tell if you are being efficient when you run. It also gives you less of a chance of getting an injury from running.  Give this a try...it can be a process to learn and you may have to make a concerted effort in the beginning.

When you are walking you can pump your arms and push your speed.  This isn't an easy stroll. You want to increase you cardio health.   This will help with endurance and speed.  Push yourself a little.  

You should walk or run at a comfortable pace.  Enough that you may not be able to carry on a long conversation but not so much that you can't catch your breath.  If any of you have a heart rate monitor that you can wear while exercising, that is a great way to know if you are exercising at the correct level.  Let me know if you have questions about this.

Speaking of carrying on conversations...it is great if you want to run or walk together, but it should not be expected.  Often times people run or walk at different paces.  Just because you know each other doesn't mean you have to stay together.  Of course, if you want to stick together that is perfectly fine, but no one should feel obligated.  

Stretching is a very important part of working out.  In fact, some experts think stretching is more important than the actual workout.  We will stretch after our workouts on Wednesdays. I will show everyone the exercises that I do on the railing on my front porch.  You are more than welcome to use my railing after your run or walk.  Stretching before your workout is okay but you need to be very careful not to stretch too much as it is easy to pull a muscle when the body isn't warmed up.  


Be sure the check out this link. It is the site for the half we are doing in May. We will need to sign up soon, so please make yourselves familiar with it so we can talk about it on Wednesday!
(You may have to copy and paste)

http://www.halfmarathons.net/usa_half_marathons_california_see_jane_run_half_marathon.html


We will be signing up next week.  Be sure to check out the date, time and price.  Be sure this all works for you and if so, you can sign up.  We will do it as a group for those of us that KNOW it will work.  I will give more details next week. 


13.1...Here We Come!!!

Sunday, February 22, 2009

On Your Mark...

Okay girls...the time has finally come to get started on our training for the See Jane Run Half Marathon on May 30, 2009. We will meet at my house, 2994 Bresso Drive, on Wednesday, February 25 at 9am. It is important to be on time so we can get started as soon as possible. Now, for the part you have been looking forward to...the homework:

WALKERS
Wednesday     Walk 1 mile
Thursday         Walk 30 Minutes Easy
Friday              Walk 20 Minutes Brisk
Saturday          Walk 30 Minutes Easy
Sunday             Rest
Monday           Walk 30 Minutes Brisk
Tuesday           Rest


RUNNERS
Wednesday     Run 1 Mile
Thursday        35 Minutes Stretch and Strengthen
Friday             50 Minute Cross Train
Saturday         35 Minute Brisk Walk
Sunday            Rest
Monday          Half Mile Run
Tuesday          35 Minute Cross Train

TRAINER TIP OF THE WEEK:
Get good shoes! This will make all the difference in your training. I like Fleet Feet in downtown Pleasanton. They fit you and watch you walk or run. They will decided which shoe is best for you. They are a little expensive, but it is definitely worth the price. If your feet hurt...nothing else feels good. Also, shoes determine the health of your legs and back. Good shoes are very important!!

Be sure the check out this link. It is the site for the half we are doing in May. We will need to sign up soon, so please make yourselves familiar with it so we can talk about it on Wednesday!
(You may have to copy and paste)

http://www.halfmarathons.net/usa_half_marathons_california_see_jane_run_half_marathon.html

13.1...Here We Come!!!

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Half Marathon 2008

We had our first half marathon on December 13, 2008.  It was a very cold morning but the weather was clear and we avoided any rain!  We started training in September.  We trained every week and were able to prepare ourselves for our half marathon.  We did a route in Livermore along some of the trails in and around Sycamore Grove.  Our group consisted of:  

Karen Busath
Lindsay Hahn
Michelle Cortez
Julie Bills
Rebecca Badger
Cheri Troutman
Joleen Mills 
and me...Samantha Theler

After our run a few of us came back to my house and relaxed in the hot tub.  It was a really great experience to get to know each other better and I know some of us are ready to get training for our next half on May 30, 2009!