Week 1: Day 2

* trail/road run = 2.72 miles, time 31:21, pace @ 11:32

* WALK with dogs: 1.7 miles

I know that it's still  2013, but tomorrow is the first of the month and the first of the year! So it's the first week of the year! Happy New Year!

I finished the month of December with 27.19 miles of running. I finished the year 2013 with 553.09 miles of running.

I got myself a 2014 wall calender where I plan to mark an X for each day that I run. This will include my own running and running with my dog, Jubee. I hope that this will help motivate me to run more regularly/consistantly where I see more X's than empty boxes/spaces. This year (2013), I didn't run as much as I wanted to because I didn't like the weather or I was unmotivated/lazy.

In my blog, I'll record any runs that I do solo or with my youngest dog, Jubee, and walks with my dogs. Lately, I've been doing "longer" (between 1.5 to almost 2 miles) walks with my dogs on a daily basis. I generally don't like to walk for exercise, but I will do it for my dogs.

Week 52: Day 7 - 2013

@ 8:05am: road run = 2.17 miles, time = 24:52, pace @ 11:24

Total Weekly Mileage: 7.92
Total Monthly Mileage: 24.47
Total Yearly Mileage: 550:37
Total Shoe Mileage: 382.44

New Year's Day is on Wednesday. Ok.....so I actually don't have any New Year's Resolutions. I'm just going to make sure that I end and start the year on a good note by not being lazy and sleeping in.


Week 52: Day 4 - 2013

@ 9:00am: trail/road run = 3.24 miles, time = 37:58, pace @ 11:43

Running this morning wasn't as bad as running later in the day. I didn't cough up a lung. It's weird that while I was still somewhat sick yesterday and this morning, I ran slower this morning. I think I put in the same effort on both runs too.



Week 52: Day 3 - 2013

@ 4:15PM: trail/road run = 2.51 miles, time = 27:24, pace @ 10:55

For the first time in a very long while, I ran after 3pm, much later than usual. The weather lately have been driving me nuts. I mean, I do enjoy this 80 degree weather when I'm NOT running, but I find no motivation to run when it's so warm. It's already warm at 7am!

I think I shouldn't have ran so late in the day. I'm almost over my cold, I'm still recovering. My lungs aren't quite ready for smog and I'm hacking/coughing my lungs out. Mornings aren't quite smoggy yet because the night air seems to clear it out by morning (which returns by mid-morning). I have to make myself run in the morning when the air isn't so smoggy.

Week 51: Day 7 - 2013

@ 9:00am: road run = 2.17 miles, time = 24:43, pace @ 11:27

Total Weekly Mileage: 6.69
Total Monthly Mileage: 16.55
Total Yearly Mileage: 543.45
Total Shoe Mileage: 374.52

Whoops, I forgot to update my blog on Thursday after my run that morning.


Week 51: Day 3 - 2013

@ 10:25am: road run = 2.35 miles, time = 25:38, pace @ 10:54

I've been randomly (on and off) running one WALK/RUN with one of my dogs. I've been doing a lot of walking with both dogs everyday. I had planned to do both running with my dog and solo running on the same day (using the "dog run" as a warm up), but I didn't have enough motivation to do both on the same day. I got lazy and hadn't been keeping up on running with my dog. I've lost quite a bit of my endurance and I get tired easily now. I need to get back into solo running again and build up some base running before I start training for my 10K race in February. I haven't been doing any cycling in awhile, and I need to get back to work on that too because I have a 20 mile bike race/tour on the same weekend as my 10K run/race.

And while I'm building up my base running, I need to work off this cold that I got from someone at work. Boo.



Week 49: Day 3 - 2013

@ 8:00 AM: trail/road run = 5.32 miles, time = 58:41, pace @ 11:02
@ 12:15 PM: hiking with dogs = 3 miles

I've hike many times before. Today was the first time that I took my dogs, Jubee and Kiko, on a hike. It was also the first time that they walked more than two miles at one time. They did pretty good on the hike. I'm not sure when I can take them again, but I want to take them on a hike again.

Week 49: Day 1 - 2013

@ 9:10am: bike ride = 7.15 miles, time = 34:16, pace @ 12.5 mph

 

I'm going to start running with my dog, Jubee. I think I've figured out a way that won't make either of us more tired than necessary. I tried to run with her before, but we both got too tired and it was hard, so I gave up. I'm going to try again. I'd really like for Jubee to run with me sometimes.

Week 48: Day 7 - 2013

@ 7:30am: trail run = 4.54 miles, time = 53:16, pace @ 11:44

Total Weekly Mileage: 14.04
Total Monthly (November) Mileage: 32.78
Total Monthly (December) Mileage: 4.54
Total Yearly Mileage: 531.44
Total Shoe Mileage: 362.51

I went running at the Chino Hills State Park this morning. In the first half mile of the run, there is a challenging hill. Since I haven't ran here since July, I struggled on the hill. I don't have the endurance to run this hill anymore since I lost some of the endurance.

I also forgot to check my ipod battery and recharge it yesterday. I didn't realize that the battery was enough for yesterday's run. I had to do the whole run this morning without music. I guess it's ok. Sometimes I need to run without music.

Week 48: Day 6 - 2013

@ 10:00am: road run = 4.83 miles, time = 52: 40, pace @ 10:54

I had a meeting for work this morning at 8am. If I didn't have to go to this, I would have gone on a bike ride with a group of people instead. This was the second time that I had to miss out on a group bike ride because of a work meeting. Work meetings are so pointless and stupid.

I went on a run this morning after the meeting. I went later than I was used to and the weather was warmer than I'd like, but I ran faster than I thought. At least, it wasn't humid or smoggy...

Week 48: Day 4 - 2013

@6:50am: trail/road run = 4.57 miles, time = 53:16, pace @ 11:39
@1:45PM: bike ride = 13.72 miles, time = 1:04:17, pace @ 12.8 mph

I almost didn't want to go out for a bike ride. Laziness was kicking in (I already went for a run this morning after all), but I told myself that I would feel better. I knew that if I paid for parking (starting and ending point of my bike ride in El Monte), there was no point of return and I couldn't get a refund. I went on the Rio Honda bike path with the parking lot that started/ended in South El Monte and rode until I got to around the El Monte airport (turn around point). It was a nice long ride. I think I will be riding this bike path occassionally. Sometimes I need to ride in different areas to find motivation. I thought about doing a run on this bike path, but the scenery is extremely boring. I like looking at natural/nature-like scenery and this bike path is not that at all.

Week 48: Day 2 - 2013

@ 7:00am: hilly trail run = 1.1 miles, time = 14:26, pace @ 13:07

I figured out how to improve my bike endurance/strength! All I have to do is run on challenging hills once a week. I used to do this to build my endurance and speed for long distance running. I think I need to get back into running on challenging hills again.

The last time I ran on challenging hills was last July. Surprisingly, I did better than I thought this morning and I was able to run continuously without slowing down (to a walk) or stopping. Of course, I wasn't as fast as I'd like, but it was ok. I will get better if I continue to run on the hill/trail regularly/weekly.

Week 48: Day 1 - 2013

@ 9:10am: bike ride = 10.15 miles, time = 48:16, pace @ 12.6 mph

For whatever reason, I feel like I'm getting slower on some hills. These are the same hills that I've done many times before. I guess this is what happens when I don't ride on a regular basis (two or three times a week). I lose some endurance and strength because I don't ride as often as I like.

On the bright side though, I get to ride with a group of other cyclists on Friday and Saturday. They are two different groups. Friday's ride is 18 miles and Saturday's ride is 17 miles. I hope I can do ok keeping up with them. I can use the motivation of being around other cyclists so I can ride more often on my own.

Week 47: Day 7 - 2013

@ 6:40am = trail/road run = 4.44 miles, time = 49:19, pace @ 11:20

Total Weekly Mileage: 12.24
Total Monthly Mileage: 18.74
Total Yearly Mileage: 517.40
Total Shoe Mileage: 248.47

I had planned to do my bike ride this morning after my run. I went to a park in El Monte to use as a starting/ending point. I had forgotten that I might possibly have to pay a parking fee. I didn't have enough money to pay for it, so I didn't get a ride in. I have no motivation to ride now. I think I will make up for it during the week and I'll make sure that I have enough money to pay for the parking fee.


Week 47: Day 4 - 2013

@ 1:35pm = bike ride = 9 miles, time = 45:30, pace @ 11.9 mph

I debated about going out for a bike ride today. It had been sprinkling on and off all day. There was finally a break in the rain. I braved the weather, even though there were still dark clouds lingering around. Luckily, it sprinkled for a few minutes towards the end of my ride and I stayed dry the whole time. I was going to ride in a completely new area today, but I wanted to stay closer to home, so I'd have a better chance of staying out of the rain during a ride because I didn't commute to anywhere.

Week 47: Day 3 - 2013

@ 6:40am: trail/road run = 4.19 miles, time = 48:01, pace @ 11:28

I was going to do my bike ride work out this afternoon. I ended up not doing it because of lazyiness.

I should start riding my bike in different areas, preferably on a bike path that only allows bicycles and pedestrians. I think I need some kind of motivation to get out for more bike rides and I think it would be easier if I went in other areas. Riding around in my own town gets boring sometimes.

Week 47: Day 2 - 2013

@ 6:40am = 3.61 miles, time = 39:14, pace @ 10:52

I didn't run far this morning, but I finally have some motivation to run and I'm enjoying my runs again. Too bad, it came at the wrong time and not during my half marathon training when I needed it most. I don't know why I'm suddenly getting the enjoyment and motivation now. I think it's better now than never. I hope I still have it when it comes time to train for my 10K race in February though.

Week 47: Day 1 - 2013

@ 9:30am: bike ride = 7.15 miles, time 36:40, pace @11.7

I need to stop being so lazy with my bike rides and runs.  I recently joined a bicycle group on meetup and I had RSVP'd to do a 20 mile bike ride with them on November 29. My longest ride was 14 miles. That was one time and it was in May. Time to get to work!

Week 46: Day 5 - 2103

@ 1:00pm: trail/road run = 3.2 miles, time = 35:17, pace @ 11:02

I wasn't go for run or bike ride at all today. The clouds looked a bit "rainy" and I was scared to run/bike in the rain because I didn't want to get sick. I decided to brave the weather and the weather wasn't as bad as I thought. It was actually quite warm and got a little sunny. I was going to go for a bike ride afterwards, but I think it's a little too late in the afternoon for that. I don't want to get stuck in any residual school traffic since I live near a middle school and a high school (they're directly across the street from each other and they're both ending their school day very soon). I don't fear careless students walking home, but I fear careless drivers/parents picking up their kids.

Week 46: Day 4 - 2013

@ 9:15am: road run = 2.12 miles, time = 23:21, pace @ 11:01

Whoops, I forgot to update yesterday after I did my 7.15 mile bike ride. I started recording my ride. I have a gorillapod (a mini tripod with flexible legs) and a point & shoot camera. Since I was recording my first ride yesterday, I seemed to pay more attention to how many bad/careless drivers there were and it threw me off, realizing how many careless drivers there actually were. I was also recording the time (how long it would take me to ride), but when I stopped at the bank (to deposit my paycheck), I forgot to put my stopwatch on pause. I'm not going to share the video from the ride because I grumbled a few bad words that I don't want anyone to hear.

week 45: Day 7 - 2013

@ 6:15am: road run = 2.17 miles, time = 25:17, pace @ 11:39

Total Weekly Mileage: 2.17
Total Monthly Mileage: 4.38
Total Yearly Mileage: 503.04
Total Shoe Mileage: 234.11

This morning was the first time that I did any work outs (run or bike) since last Sunday. After my last run, I did something to my back and tweaked it so it was sore in my lower back on one side. My back is fine now, but the soreness took a few days. I think I may actually need a back massage because now one of my discs in my lower back is "popping" (like when you crack your knuckles). There is no pain or discomfort, but I think my back is spasming. I was hoping that I wouldn't get a back massage for awhile since I just had one two weeks ago (my back issues started last weekend).

Week 44: Day 7 - 2013

@ 7:45am: trail/road run = 2.21 miles, time = 25:07, pace @ 11:22

Total Weekly Mileage: 7.66
Total Monthly (October) Mileage: 142.74
Total Monthly (November) Mileage: 2.21
Total Yearly Mileage: 500.87
Total Shoe Mileage: 231.94

Since we had to change the clocks back one hour last night, the extra one hour of sleep this morning helped a little bit. Even though I still feel tired and I want to go back to sleep. Maybe I can take a nap this afternoon before I go to work.

It's also already November, but it still feels warm in the morning. I'm waiting for the days with really cold mornings.

Week 44: Day 4 - 2013

@ 8:30am: trail/road run = 3.25 miles, time = 36:41, pace @ 11:14

My feet were not that bad during the run, day after getting a massage. I think I need to make myself do a warm up before each run though.

I was going through the garage to look for a pair of roller blades that I got during high school. I found them! I really want to start training my dog, Jubee (1 year and 4 months old), and get to run with me. Since she is new to running, I have to train her Cesar Milan style first until she can run continuously for one mile. Anyway, I tried on the roller blade to test them out (not with Jubee) this morning. I haven't roller bladed/skated in over ten years so it was like learning how to skate all over again. I guess I should practice roller blading first to get used to them before training Jubee to run. I think I will start practicing on them as a warm up before my runs.

Week 44: Day 3 - 2013

@ 10:45am: bike ride = 9.02 miles, time = 46:05, pace @ 11.7mph

I think I did a bit too much work out in one day (bike + run) on Sunday and yesterday. I wanted to take advantage of the nice weather today by going for a ride, but once I was out, I wasn't really that motivated and I really wanted to just go home after one mile. I think it really IS ok to do both (bike+run) on the same day/morning once in awhile though.

After my bike ride, I went for a foot massage. It was much needed. Both of my feet are slightly sore now, but I think this did the trick and I'm looking forward to find out how my left foot (problem foot) feels on a run.

Week 44: Day 2 -2013

@ 8:30am = road run: 2.2 miles, time = 23:50, pace @ 10:59

@ 9:25am = bike ride: 7.17 miles, time = 33:41, pace @ 12.8mph

I heard that it was suppose to rain today. I'm glad that it was the opposite: sunny and mostly clear. I wanted to ride and run this morning. The weather was nice, but I can't wait when it's so cold in the morning so I can go run in it.



Week 43: Day 7 - 2013

@ 9:45AM: trail/road RUN = 2.51 miles, time = 27:50, pace @ 11:05

@ 11:50AM: bike RIDE: 8.49 miles, time = 39:59, pace @ 12.7 mph

My left foot is starting to feel better with running. It's still a little bit tight, but it's better than the last run. I'm still going to make myself go in for a foot massage though in the next few days at a local massage therapy place (they're doing a grand opening special).

Now that fall is officially here and it feels so much cooler/nicer (for me) in the mornings, I'm going to run more often now. I like to cycle when it's a little over 70 degrees so I think I'll ride during the mid-morning hours like 10am or 11am.

Week 43: Day 4 - 2013

@ 11:45am: bike ride= 7.84 miles, time = 35:47, pace @ 13.1 mph

Time to get back to doing bike work on a regular basis. Now is the time to start since I need to build my endurance up so I can ride 20 miles by the end of February for the Chinatown-Los Angeles Firecracker bike "race"/tour. That will be my first official bike "race"/tour. Speed is probably not important at this time, but I just need to be able to ride 20 miles...that is all.

But this doesn't mean that I should stop running because I like to run in general and I also have a 10K race on the same weekend as the bike "race". I hope I will have the motivation to run for a race by February.

Week 43: Day 3 - 2013

@ 8:40am: trail/road run = 2.08 miles, time = 23:00, pace @ 11:03

Today was the first run that I had done since the race. My left foot wasn't sore, but it felt really tight. I think it's time for a massage...now only if I can find the golf ball that I like using for foot massages....

Week 41: Day 7 - 2013

Race Day 
@ 8am: race (13.1 miles): 2:25:37, pace @ 11:06

Total Weekly Mileage: 25.21
Total Monthly Mileage: 137.29
Total Yearly Mileage: 488.62
Total Shoe Mileage: 219.69

I could have done better. I had to walk a little bit at the end. My right calf muscle almost wanted to cramp up. Both of my feet were also uncomfortable, but surprisingly not that sore.

Also between a not so great work schedule (I work until 1am and I'm a morning runner) and not being very motivated to run in general, my training wasn't that great and it (the training) didn't go as I had planned. The important thing was that I didn't get any "real" injuries and I made it to the finish line.


Week 41: Day 6 - 2013

@ 7:30am: trail/road run = 6.81 miles, time = 1:16:37, pace @ 11:15

I finished my last training run! I can take a break from running after tomorrow....no more training for a race for the rest of the year!

I've signed up for a 10K race which is at the end of February, so in the meantime, I can run for fun now. And at least, it's a 10K race and the training is six weeks (instead of twelve weeks)!

Week 41: Day 4 - 2013

@ 10:45am: trail/road run = 5.3 miles, time = 59:09, pace @ 11:10

The weather is finally getting cooler and I'm enjoying the weather more now! I have one more training run to do (tomorrow) and then I have the race on Sunday. In the past, I would take a full five or six days off to rest from running, but this year after the race, I'm taking a full seven to eight days off from running. For the past few weeks, my left foot felt sore from running. Five day of no running isn't helping, so I think I need at least a full seven days of complete rest (without running) if I don't want a sore foot again from running. During those seven or so days, I'll just do biking and karate.

Week 41: Day 2 - 2013

@ 10:45am: bike ride: 7.15 miles,  time = 33:49, pace @ 12.7 mph

Time to get back into bike riding on a regular basis...

Week 40: Day 7 - 2013

@ 7:50am: trail/road run = 8.37 miles, time 1:40:11, pace @ 12:01

Total Weekly Mileage: 19.42
Total Monthly Mileage: 112.08
Total Yearly Mileag: 475.52
Total Shoe Mileage: 206.59

One more week until race day. For previous half marathons, I usually take five or six days off before I start running again. I think I will take at least seven or more days off thistime. My left foot had been sore during the last few weeks every time I did a run. I know that taking seven days off will help my feet get some rest and stop being sore again during a run.

Week 40: Day 6 - 2013

@7:45am: trail/road run = 6.2 miles, time = 1:11:37, pace @ 11:33

Went out for a run later than I wanted to, but it's done at least.

Week 40: Day 5 - 2013

@11:40am: bike ride - 8.26 miles; time = 38:33, pace @ 12.9 mph

Feels nice to be back to riding bikes again. And the weather isn't so crazy and uncomfortable anymore.

Week 40: Day 4 - 2013

@10:40am: trail/road run: 4.85 miles, time = 56:01, pace @ 11:33

I almost didn't want to run today. But better later in the morning than never. It was somewhat warmer than I'd like, but it was also partly cloudy which was why I got out at all for a run. Now I can say that I got my run in and feel good about it.

Week 40: Day 3 - 2013

@5:30pm: bike ride: 7.2 miles

I finally got my biking legs back. I partially blame the extreme heat, but mostly blame my laziness.  Both tires on my bike became flat and lost air because I hadn't been riding on my bike in over one month. Since I get two free tune ups within one year from the store I purchased the bike, I took my bike in last week. I think I really needed one anyway other than having a having reason for them to help with the tires since I didn't have the right air pump to put air in my tires. I got my bike back this morning. I rarely ever ride after 4pm because I wanted to avoid the busy streets created from "rush hour", but my legs were itching to ride!

Week 39: Day 7 - 2013

@7:40am: trail/road run = 12.16 miles, time = 2:23:58, pace @ 11:50

 

Total Weekly Mileage: 24.55

Total Monthly Mileage: 92.66

Total Yearly Mileage: 466.10

Total Shoe Mileage: 187.17

 

Yes, two more weeks until race day! I'm more than mentally ready for it and I can't wait for training to be over with!

Week 39: Day 5 - 2013

@ 7:40am: trail/road run = 7.17 miles, time = 1:22:23, pace @ 11:29

Since I won't be able to do a run tomorrow morning (I have a work meeting at 8am), I got my run in this morning. I am glad for this because I've gotten in all of my necessary training runs this week. Without this run, I know that I will for sure, get shin splints from my twelve mile run on Sunday morning. I can take a rest day (no running) tomorrow.

Week 39: Day 4 - 2013

@ 8:30am: trail/road run = 5.22 miles, time = 58.22, pace @ 11:17

It randomly rained this morning! It rained a bit, but it also didn't make the air feel more cooler. We do need the rain, but I would have prefered that it happened this evening instead.

On the other hand, since I haven't been on my bike in four to five weeks, I have two flat tires. I thought I could use the existing bike pump that I had at home, but it turned out that I couldn't just use any bike pumps. I didn't know this when I bought the bike several months ago. My bike needed a tune up anyway and since I get two free tune ups within the first year (after purchasing my bike) and it has been four months now, I took my bike in for the first free tune up and get the tires inflated. I get my bike back tomorrow and I should probably get a specific bike pump while I pick up my bike at the same time.

Week 38: Day 7 - 2013

@7:50am: trail/road run = 11.36 miles, time = 2:17:09

Total Weekly Mileage: 18.06
Total Monthly Mileage: 68.11
Total Yearly Mileage: 441.55
Total Shoe Mileage: 162.62

It was overcast when I got home from work last night and I got home pretty late. That made me glad because I figured it would be cloudy for my run in the morning, so I could sleep in a little bit. It was not cloudy after 7am. Boo. At least, it wasn't humid and uncomfortable.

Week 38: Day 6 - 2013

@ 8am: trail/road run = 6.7 miles, time = 1:19:20, pace = 11:49

I hope the next few days/weeks have the same weather as this morning. Cloudy/overcast until 9am or so. This would help me run more often in the morning because I can sleep in a little bit and it does feel cool in the morning when it's cloudy.

Week 37: Day 7 - 2013

@ 6:40am: road/trail run = 11.19 miles

Total Weekly Mileage: 22.93
Total Monthly Mileage: 50.05
Total Yearly Mileage: 423.49
Total Shoe Mileage: 144.56

I'm not going to mention my time (how long it took me to run) here. I didn't realize that my stop watch wasn't on until I ran 1/3 mile. I can't wait for the race to be here. I'm done training and I'm bored now. But I must keep training. I have four more weeks left!

Training Week 8 RECAP:
* Mon, Sept 9: REST
* Tues, Sept 10: REST
* Wed, Sept 11: REST
* Thur, Sept 12: REST
* Fri, Sept 13: 5.14 mile RUN
* Sat, Sept 14: 6.6 mile RUN
* Sun, Sept 15 (today): 11.19 mile RUN

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race Website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 37: Day 6 - 2013

@ 6:40am: road/trail run = 6.6 miles, time = 1:14:13, pace @ 11:15

I don't think I'll have time to go to karate class this afternoon because I have to get ready for a friend's wedding. If I do get the chance to go to karate, I'll make an update.

Week 37: Day 5 - 2013

@ 6:45am: trail/road run = 5.14 miles, time = 59:47, pace @ 11:38

I've figured out why I'm running slower than I used to and/or than I'd like to. I haven't been doing my hilly trail running since week 1 of my training. I have four weeks left until race day. I'm not sure if running on challenging hills will help, but I guess something (starting next week) is better than nothing.

Week 36: Day 7 - 2013

@ 6:30am: trail/road run = 10.41 miles, time = 2:01:51 (h:m:s), pace @ 11:42

Total Weekly Mileage: 16.91
Total Monthly Mileage: 27.12
Total Yearly Mileage: 401.56
Total Shoe Mileage: 121.63

For being seriously undertrained this week and surprisingly, I am not injured with shin splints or anything else related to running. Except for four red lights where I had to wait to cross the street this morning, I didn't stop for any walk/rest breaks. I'm a little sore right now, but this is from running 10.4 miles this morning. This also doesn't mean I can continue running two days week for the rest of training...I will probably get shin splints or some other related running injury for undertraining if I continue doing that and I'd like to avoid running with pain for the rest of training and on race day.

The weather was driving me crazy all week. The weather seem better next week and I hope it stays that way (or gets better) until race day. I'm over this crazy weather.

Training Week 7 RECAP:
* Mon, Sept 2: REST
* Tues, Sept 3: 7.15 mile BIKE ride
* Wed, Sept 4: REST
* Thur, Sept 5: REST
* Fri, Sept 6: REST
* Sat, Sept 7: 6.5 mile RUN + karate + 1.5 mile WALK
* Sun, Sept 8 (today): 10.41 mile RUN

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race Website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 36: Day 6 - 2013

@ 6:30am: trail/road run = 6.5 miles, time = 1:14:39, pace @ 11:29
@ 12:15pm: karate = 1 hour
     * "warm up" = 3/4 mile walk
     * "cool down" = 3/4 mile walk

I'm really undertrained this week as far as my running/miles goes. Surprisingly, I didn't get any shin splints or other injuries for undertraining since I did a 6.5 mile run this morning and my last run (10 miles) was last weekend. But I think it helped that I took a rest break to stretch a little in the beginning when I felt something uncomfortable in my right shin. I hope I don't get any shin splints or other related injuries tomorrow while I'm doing my long run.

Week 36: Day 2 - 2013

@9:45am: bike ride = 7.15 miles

I didn't time my ride this morning. I think since because I've been only riding my bike once a week, I've lost some endurance/strength and I can't ride those hills as good as I used to. It's not that my long run had anything to do with me riding slower today since that was on Sunday and I did nothing for a work out yesterday. But I got a ride today at least even with the crazy weather that we're having now.

Week 35: 7 - 2013

@ 6:30am: trail/road run = 10.21 miles, time = 2:00:27, pace @ 11:48

Total Weekly Mileage: 21.86
Total August Mileage: 91.66
Total September Mileage: 10.21
Total Yearly Mileage: 384.65
Total Shoe Mileage: 114.72

Even though it was warm/hot this morning and I was still uncomfortable with it, it wasn't as humid as yesterday morning. I usually don't bring money with me on a run because I usually don't need to buy anything (water/gatorade, a banana, etc) from somewhere. I decided that I should start bringing some money because I didn't feel too energetic or hydrated enough during my last two LONG runs. It didn't help me run faster, but I felt better during the second half of my run when I bought water and Gatorade at the halfway point. I also didn't want to bring extra bottled water with me on the run which probably wouldn't have helped me because I needed a sport drinks (something with electrolytes) at some point and I needed to drink more than what I could/would carry.

Training Week 7 RECAP:
* Mon, Aug 26: 7.15 mile BIKE ride
* Tues, Aug 27: REST
* Wed, Aug 28: REST
* Thur, Aug 29: 5.15 mile RUN
* Fri, Aug 30: REST
* Sat, Aug 31: 6.5 mile RUN + karate
* Sun, Sept 1 (today): 10.21 mile RUN

Week 35: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7am) trail/road run = 6.5 miles, time 1:13:24, pace @ 11:18
• (@ 12:15pm) karate = 1 hour
• "warm up" = 3/4 mile
• "cool down" = 3/4 mile

Why did I choose October to do a half marathon?!?! Now I remember why I can't stand running/training in hot and humid weather during the summer. I get very hot/uncomfortable and I do NOT enjoy drowning in sweat. If I am running for fun, just because or just for the sake of running, I can just run three miles and call it a day, or don't run at all. And why can't our June and July be the months with hot/humid weather while August and September are just hot (or cooler)? I think my next half marathon will be February 2015 so my training will all be during the fall/winter months where I'm comfortable running with below 55 degrees weather.

Week 35: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:15am) trail run = 5.15 mile run, time = 59:33, pace @ 11:34

I went running at the Chino Hills State Park this morning. I hadn't been there in a few weeks because I had been too lazy to drive. I know I need to change sceneries when I run so I won't get bored of running/training. I am bored of running, but I think it's because I'm running in the same area and looking at the same background all the time. I need to look at something different/new.

Week 35: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:30am) bike ride = 7.15 miles

I didn't time my ride this time, mainly because I couldn't find my stop watch which was probably a good thing because I knew that I would have put in a half ass effort into it. I just wanted to ride. During my ride, I realized that I couldn't get motivated to ride faster/harder on my last bike ride (last Monday) was because I did a nine mile run on the day before. I wasn't sore today, but some of my leg muscles ached a little bit on some of the hills I had to ride on. So I think if I'm going to ride on the day after a long run, I'll just enjoy the ride and just have fun with it without trying to work harder or faster.

Week 34: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:30am) trail/road run = 9.23 miles, time = 1:51:09, pace @ 12:03

Total Weekly Mileage: 21.21
Total Monthly Mileage: 80.01
Total Yearly Mileage: 362.79
Total Shoe Mileage: 92.86

My motivation crashed around 5.7 miles. Between mile 7 and 8, I took some walk breaks. I rarely ever take walk breaks unless there is something wrong with me (pain/injury and low motivation). I wasn't injured or in pain. I have six more weeks left until race day and I have to start playing mind games with myself, just so I can continue training. I will have to make myself get into my car and go somewhere else to run in more than once a week. Looking at the same scenery is probably not helping me either.

Training Week 6 Recap:
* Mon, Aug 19: REST
* Tues, Aug 20: 7.58 mile BIKE RIDE
* Wed, Aug 21: REST
* Thur, Aug 22: Karate + 2 mile WALK
* Fri, Aug 23: 5.47 mile RUN
* Sat, Aug 24: 6.51 mile RUN + karate + 1.5 mile WALK
* Sun, Aug 25 (today): 9.23 mile RUN

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race Website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 34: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:00am) road/trail run = 6.51 miles, time = 1:00:29, pace @ 11:09
• (@ 12:15pm) karate = 1 hour
• "warm up" = 3/4 mile walk to class
• "cool down" 3/4 mile walk after class

It's suppose to be cloudy tomorrow. I hope it's cloudy in the morning so I can sleep in a little bit, but I also hope that it doesn't rain until after I do my run! I heard that it's suppose to rain tomorrow too. We do really need the rain...just not during my run.

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race Website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 34: Day 5 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:05am) trail/road run = 5.47 miles, time = 1:00:29, pace @ 11:03

I need to get into the habit of doing my runs in the middle of the week like on a Wednesday. I have to stop being so lazy when it comes to weekday runs because if I wait until Friday, I feel tired during the run. I used to like training for a half marathon...what happened??

Day 34: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:15PM) karate = 1 hour
• "warm up" = 1 mile walk to class
• "cool down" = 1 mile walk after class

I haven't been to karate class on a weekday in awhile due to my work schedule. It's nice for a change, but I think it may be awhile before I can go to class on a weekday again.

Week 34: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 10:30am) bike ride = 7.58 miles

I haven't done any bike rides in two weeks. I didn't time my ride and I don't want to record the time, just the miles, because I did a half ass job with it and I was slower than I normally was. Partially because I hadn't done a ride in two weeks and maybe I wasn't that motivated to put in the extra effort. I did enjoy the ride and the weather.

Week 33: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:30am) road/trail run = 8.95 miles, time = 1:44:58, pace @ 11:44

Total Weekly Mileage: 20.22
Total Monthly Mileage: 58.80
Total Yearly Mileage: 341.58
Total Shoe Mileage: 71.65

Nine miles, close enough...but I'm also a bit OCD, and must know the exact distance that I run. I also don't like to round up to the next 1/10 mile.

My motivation crashed around mile 7 when I had to make an emergency pit stop. I should have ran another mile to another restroom because I didn't need to go that bad and I could have waited. I didn't want to finish my run, but I didn't have a choice because I was two miles away from home. It also didn't help that I went later than I wanted to. I wanted to head out at 6:30am, but it didn't happen. It felt uncomfortably warm (to me) twoards the end of my run that I didn't have enough energy to finish continuously and took some breaks.

Week 33: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:50am) 6.27 miles, time = 1:11:57, pace @ 11:29
• (@ 12:15pm) karate = 1 hour
• warm up to class = 3/4 mile WALK
• cool down after class = 3/4 mile WALK

Today was the first time I had been to karate class in four weeks. My work schedule had affected my running schedule because I was always tired, missing my scheduled runs during the week and I always made up a run on Saturday mornings. So while my running schedule isn't where I want it to be, I seem to do ok as far as getting all of my necessary runs/mileage for each week.

Week 33: Day 5 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:30am) road run = 5 miles, time = 55:14, pace @ 11:03

Today is the first work out of this week! I partially blame work...today is the only day off I get this week. The last day off I got was last Friday. I also work late at night and I'm always tired to wake up in the morning. Running in the morning would be easier for me because it's too hot for me to run later in the day. I can't win. Except for the two breaks (I had to stop/wait at a red light) that I had to take during my run this morning, I did just fine and was able to run continuously.

Week 32: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 8:15am) 8.27 miles, time = 1:34:07, pace @ 11:23

Total Weekly Mileage: 19.41
Total Monthly Mileage: 38.58
Total Yearly Mileage: 321.36
Total Shoe (purple) Mileage: 253.32
Total Shoe (blue) Mileage: 51.43

I have eight more weeks until the race. Mentally, I think I'm ready and want to get it over with. I'm somewhat unmotivated, but I hope this will pass and it'll change in a few weeks. This has happened to me before where I was unmotivated to run/train for the first half of the training, but was happy and really motivated to run during the second half of the training. I hope this will happen again.

Training Week 4 RECAP:
* Mon, Aug 5: 10.15 mile BIKE ride
* Tue, Aug 6: REST
* Wed, Aug 7: REST
* Thur, Aug 8: 5.14 mile RUN
* Fri, Aug 9: REST
* Sat, Aug 10: 6 mile RUN
* Sun, Aug 11 (today): 8.27 mile RUN

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race Website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 32: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@7:40am) trail/road run = 6 miles, time = 1:08:13, pace @ 11:22

What happened to the sun in the morning? It was sunny at 6am on Thursday morning! I didn't get a run in yesterday because I had to go to work earlier than usual and didn't have time. Although it is nice to sleep in a little bit (and then run at 7:30am or 8am) and it's easier for me to run continuously because there's no sun out, but it's also easier for me to find some motivation to run at all when there is sun at 6am.

Week 32: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:15am) trail run = 5.14 miles, time = 59:02, pace @ 11:29

The sun came out this morning! I made sure that I actually started my run before 7:30am and I did just fine.

Week 32: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 11:25am) bike ride = 10.15 miles, time = 49:54, pace @ 12.2 mph

I didn't exactly want to go out for a ride because I have some reading to do for work, but it is a nice day outside. I'm so glad for a mild summer this year!

Week 31: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 8:15am) trail/road run = 8.06 miles, time = 1:32:05, pace @ 11:25

Total Weekly Mileage: 22.57
Total July Mileage: 70.71
Total August Mileage: 19.17
Total Yearly Mileage: 301.95
Total Shoe (purple) Mileage: 245.05
Total Shoe (blue) Mileage: 40.29

Hills are killer for me on runs. My endurance isn't as good as it usee d to be, so I don't run on hills as good anymore. I think I can do an eight miler just fine if it's flat during the whole way. But I know hills are good for me and they are my friends. The race course is flat with easy hills, so I'll be in better shape by race day because I'm running on so much hills during my training.

Training Week 3 RECAP:
* Mon, July 29: 11.23 mile BIKE ride
* Tues, July 30: REST
* Wed, July 31: 1.1 mile HILLY RUN + 7.15 mile BIKE ride
* Thur, Aug 1: 6 mile RUN
* Fri, Aug 2: REST
* Sat, Aug 3: 5.27 mile RUN
* Sun, Aug 4 (today): 8.06 mile RUN

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race Website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 31: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:40am) trail/road run = 5.27 miles, time = 58:35, pace @ 11:07

I have to remind myself not to be so strict with my running schedule or have my mind set to go run at 6am or 7am. Lately, it has been overcast in the morning which is great and the clouds seem to burn off by 10am. I have to tell myself that it's ok to sleep in a little bit and run at 7:30am or 8am because I'll be fine, but I have to remind myself not to wait too late where I'll run at 10am and it's too hot for me.

Week 31: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 10:50am) trail run = 6 miles, time = 1:09:16, pace @ 11:33

I was so happy when it was overcast/cloudy this morning that I decided to sleep in, but I waited too late/long that the sun came out when I got to the Chino Hills State Park for my run! I was so disappointed at myself. I wasn't so hot that I was drowning in my own sweat, but I lost some motivation/energy during the second half of my run that I made frequent stops and walks. I rarely take walk breaks during a run. If I ever take any walk breaks, it's because of a leg/foot injury or really low motivation/energy. At least, I got a run in today.

Week 31: Day 3 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:30am) hilly trail run = 1.1 miles, time = 14:22, pace @ 13:04
• (@ 1:30pm) bike ride = 7.15 miles, time = 36:52, pace @ 11.64 mph

I didn't plan on going out for a bike ride, but I wanted to go to the bank and I didn't want to go the lazy way (taking the car out). It was also nice outside, sunny and warm (80-something degrees). I forgot that I should have eaten something before heading out for a bike ride. During the last 1.5 miles, I got weak and really hungry. I'm ok now that I've eaten something.

Week 32: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 11:15am) bike ride = 11.23 miles

I didn't record a time, on how long it would take me to ride 11.23 miles. By the time, I realized that I didn't start my time, I already rode 1/2 mile.

Except for the bad driver who thought she was better than bicycle people and cut me off when she made her right turn (she honked at me, so I know she saw me), I enjoyed my ride. We've had some really hot and uncomfortable days, but I think this summer has been mild for the most part. I'm glad for this.

Week 31: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:30am) trail/road run = 7.21 miles, time = 1:09:36, pace @ 11:19

Total Weekly Mileage: 18.60
Total Monthly Mileage: 67.41
Total Yearly Mileage: 279.38
Total Shoe (purple) Mileage: 236.99
Total Shoe (blue/new) Mileage: 25.72

While I did get my run in this morning and it was cooler/overcast (better than the last few days), I couldn't get into it. I think it was from lack of sleep. I hope my next long run will be better.

Training Week 2 RECAP:
* Mon, July 22: 10.15 mile BIKE ride
* Tues, July 23: REST
* Wed, July 24: 12.91 mile BIKE ride
* Thur, July 25: 6 mile RUN
* Fri, July 26: REST
* Sat, July 27: 5.39 mile RUN
* Sun, July 28 (today): 7.21 mile RUN

This week wasn't great, but it wasn't bad. So I missed a run, but it didn't affect my overall performance in the "long run".

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun

Week 31: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6am) trail/road run = 5.39 miles, time = 59:04, pace @ 10:58

I didn't feel like going to karate today. It didn't affect my training for missing a karate day anyway, so it was ok. While I did get a run in this morning (and I really wanted to go back to sleep afterwards), I had a work meeting right after my run. Who has a work meeting on a Saturday morning?? I think that made me unmotivated to go to karate.

Anyway, I have better do my run early tomorrow morning at 6am even though I'll be working late tonight. I have to tell myself that I can reward myself by going back to sleep after doing my run. My endurance is better when I run that early in the morning. It's not my ideal weather condition, but under 70 degrees weather is good enough.

Week 31: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:30am) trail run = 6 miles, time = 1:07:04, pace @ 11:11

I need to stop with this whole waking up late on my running days. I hate to run when it's warm! It's hard for me to run continuously when I'm hot and uncomfortable.

Anyway, I did my run at China Hills State Park, a local hiking area. I hadn't been there in a long time. I know that I need to run in different areas, outside of my own home town because it's good for the mind. It's also good for the body because I'm running in places that I don't frequently visit. So I need to make this into a habit, especially when I'm training for a half marathon.

My charity page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun

Week 31: Day 3 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7am) bike ride = 12.91 miles, time = 1:00:18 (hour:minutes:seconds), pace @ 12.8 mph

I didn't get a run in yesterday because I forgot to set my alarm clock and I woke up later than usual. I didn't want to do a bike ride yesterday because I had done it the day before. So I took a rest day. My quad muscles were also sore from Sunday's run anyway, so I think it was ok to have a rest day. I didn't get a run in today, but I will tomorrow morning.

I usually post earlier in the day, but I got busy. At least, I got this post in before midnight pacific time!

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun

Week 31: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:45am) bike ride = 10.15 miles, time = 49:35, pace @ 12.3 mph

I'm not going to complain about how unusually cooler our summer is this year. We do have our days that are extremely hot and uncomfortable (we even had some rain this past weekend), but it seems that we're having nicer days more often than very hot days. I wish the whole summer can be like this.

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun

Week 30: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@6:30am) trail/road run = 6.71 miles, time = 1:16:52, pace @ 11:27

Total Weekly Mileage: 20.10
Total Monthly Mileage: 48.81
Total Yearly Mileage: 260.78
Total Current (purple) Shoe Mileage: 229.78
Total New (blue) Shoe Mileage: 14.33

I purchased a pair of new (blue) shoes a few weeks ago and I started trainng in them this week. I'm still running in the "current" (purple) shoes for a month, but only once a week for the long runs. After a month, I'll retire those shoes and run in my new shoes for awhile.

Now that I got my run done for the day, I can go back to sleep. I'll enjoy this "reward".

Here's a recap of my first training week:

Mon, July 15: 7.15 mile bike ride
Tue, July 16: 1.1 mile hilly trail RUN
Wed, July 17: REST
Thur, July 18: 4.46 mile RUN
Fri, July 19: 8.6 mile bike ride
Sat, July 20: 5.63 mile RUN + karate + 1.5 mile WALK
Sun, July 21 (today): 6.71 mile RUN

My charity page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race Website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 30: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:20am) 5.63 miles, time = 1:01:27, pace @ 10:55
• (@ 12:15pm) karate = 1 hour
• "warm up" = 3/4 mile walk to class
• "cool down" = 3/4 mile walk after class

I don't know why I'm always so hot and sweaty walking to class, but I don't get as hot and sweaty walking home after class. Shouldn't the weather be the same at 11:45am and at 1:30pm? Usually between 10am and 2pm is the worst time to exercise because that's the hottest time of the day!

Week 30: Day 5 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 12PM) bike ride = 8.6 miles, time = 41:51, pace @ 12.3 mph

I almost didn't want to do any work outs today. I overslept and couldn't get my run early enough in the morning. I figured a bike ride was better than nothing and I could deal with a humid, muggy weather better on a bike. I'll get my Friday scheduled run in tomorrow morning instead since I can go to bed early tonight.

My charity page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
My facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun
Race website: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 30: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:30am) trail run = 4.46 miles, time = 49:20, pace @ 11:04

I wanted to head out for my run before 6:30am, but I overslept. I didn't work last night, but I'm sleeping like I'm lacking sleep because I feel so tired! I almost didn't want to run this morning, but I have a half marathon to train for!

Week 30: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:35am) hilly trail run = 1.1 miles, time = 14:18, pace @ 13:00
• warm up = 1.1 miles
• cool down = 1.1 miles

I'm getting better at running this challenging hill. I'm still breathing heavily and my legs burn on the steep incline, but I ran non-stop. My lungs still hurt, but my throat didn't. Yes for progress.

My charity page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/mylifeontherun

Week 30: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:45am) bike ride = 7.15 miles, time = 36:12, pace @ 11.9 mph

I was hoping to head out for my ride at 8am, but I procrastinated out of laziness. At least, this morning was not as hot as Saturday morning (same time). It was actually quite nice. I was also still a little sore this morning from the six mile run yesterday (I walked like an old person), but luckily, the soreness was totally unnoticeable during my ride and I don't feel as sore as I did earlier this morning.

My Charity Page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid
Race: http://www.runlongbeach.com

Week 29: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:30am) trail/road run = 6 miles, time = 1:09:21, pace @ 11:30

Total Weekly Mileage: 18.9
Total Monthly Mileage: 28.71
Total Shoe Mileage: 223.07
Total Yearly Mileage: 240.68

I hadn't ran six miles since the 10K race that I did last February, so I'm a little sore now. I ran slower than I wanted to, but at least, I was continuous and I didn't stop. I didn't run at 5:30am like I wanted to, but 6:30am was better than after 8am because it felt cooler/better at 6:30am.

I created a fan page on facebook for anyone who cares to follow it. Since I never share photos or random tidbits on this blog, you will find those things (as well as any race/fitness updates) on my fan page instead.

Also, here's a friendly reminder: Let's pay it forward and make a small donation on my charity page. Any amount is greatly appreciated!

Week 29: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 8am) trail run = 5 miles, time = 55:46, pace @ 11:09
• (@ 12:15pm) karate = 1 hour
• 3/4 mile (warm up) bike ride to class
• 3/4 mile (cool down) bike ride after class

I really didn't enjoy my run this morning. I was so hot and uncomfortable. I should have gone earlier. I hope I can wake up early tomorrow morning so I can go running at 5:30am.

Week 29: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 8:10am) trail/road run = 4.6 miles, time = 49:10, pace @ 10:41

It was a cloudy/overcast/semi-rainy day. For July and in the middle of summer, that's a bit strange. There was a little drizzle, but not enough to make me soaked. For once, I'm finally ok with running when the sky is cloudy/overcast because I told myself that it's ok to run later in the morning even if I end up drowning in sweat.

My charity page: http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid

Week 28: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 7:45am) = hilly trail run = 1.1 miles, time = 14:09, pace @ 12:52
• warm up = 1.1 miles
• cool down = 1.1 miles

I slept in (I was really tired) and went running later than I wanted to. I knew that I would feel better for doing a run. I did my run on a very challenging hill that I hadn't been on since February. I know that by running on challenging hills, it would help me build back my endurance and speed. I hadn't done this challenging hilly trail for so long that I was really out of shape for the steepest/challenging part of the trail. I was breathing so heavy that my throat and lungs were hurting. My legs were also hurting from the climb. I had to stop and rest at the top of the steepest part of the hill to catch my breathe. It was so hard. I know that if I keep trying with running on this hill, I will get better.

Week 27: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:40am) trail/road run = 5.35 miles, time = 1:00:06, pace @ 11:14

I just recently signed up for the Los Angeles "Frozen Hot Chocolate" race and I'll be doing the 10K (other people can do the 5K if they prefer). It's in September, so it'll be a great training "run". It'll also be a good way to stay motivated with my half marathon training. On top of that, I'll get rewarded with frozen hot chocolate at the finish line and I get a cool running sunglasses in my goodie bag.

week 27: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 8am) bike ride = 14.22 miles, time = 1:07:14, pace @ 12.7 mph

I enjoyed the fact that there were less traffic/cars out because today is/was a holiday (4th of July Independence Day).

Week 27: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:40am) trail/road run = 4.46 miles, time = 50:13, pace @ 11:16

I almost didn't want to go run this morning, but I'm glad that I went and got it out of the way. I was somewhat unmotivated and lazy, but I feel better now.

Week 27: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:30am) bike ride = 7.15 miles, time = 36:04, pace @ 11.9 mph

I start "semi"-training today. My running has been sporadic as of late and I need to build my running base (which won't be that hard) before I officially start my training on July 15. Training is going to be hard this summer because I work late at night and I have to run early in the morning to avoid the summer heat. I do all of my running outside because I don't have access to a treadmill, but I can't do treadmills for various reasons anyway.

To make a donation, visit my charity page.

Week 26: Day 7

cardio:

• (@ 6:45am) = 4.88 miles, time = 55:25, pace @ 11:22

Total Weekly Mileage: 9.48
Total Monthly Mileage: 35.84
Total Yearly Mileage: 211.97
Total Shoe Mileage: 194.36

I finally found some motivation to run earlier in the morning. It would be too hot to run later anyway. While it was warm at 6:45am and I was drowning in my own sweat by the end of my run, I managed to continue running without a "water break". It was a "comfortable" enough temperature this morning. My running had been sporadic and the heat probably contributed to it also, so my pace was a bit slower than I'd like to, but I know that if I keep a regular running schedule, including some training on challenging hills, I'll get my regular pace back to normal.

Week 26: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• karate (@ 12:15pm) = 1 hour
• bike ride (warm up to class) = 3/4 mile
• bike ride (after class) = 3/4 mile

Between January 2009 and April 2013, I borrowed my sister's bike to ride to wherever, but I never rode her bike during the summer because it was just SO hot. Since I got my own bike now, riding in ridiculously hot weather isn't really that bad as long as I know what I'm doing by staying hydrated...but I drink water like there's no tomorrow. I rode my bike to karate class today in the 110+ degrees weather because there was no way I was walking and I didn't want to be THAT lazy to drive my car. At least, the bike is faster than walking (so I can spend less time in the sun) and there is a slight breeze. There was a second class, but I couldn't stay because I go into work a little earlier today and I need to get ready for it.

Week 26: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:50am) trail/road run = 4.6 miles, time = 49:53, pace @ 10:51

I have three weeks left before I officially start training. I'm not looking forward to running/training in July or August when the weather can get really hot and humid, even though I do enjoy pouring water on my head/face to stay cool. But I have to do what I have to do.

Here's a friendly reminder: Let's pay it forward and make a donation on my charity page. Any amount is greatly appreciated!

Week 25: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 12:40PM) trail/road run = 4.45 miles, time = 47:55, pace @ 10:47 mpm

Total Weekly Mileage: 8.9
Total Monthly Mileage: 26.36
Total Yearly Mileage: 202.49
Total Shoe Mileage: 185.36

As much as I don't like to run later in the day and I don't like to run when it's hot/warm (I get very hot and uncomfortable), I should enjoy the fact that it's not smoggy or humid after 8am....at least, it is not yet. I definitely don't like to run when it's smoggy or humid. If I do have to run later in the day, I like to pour water on my head. It makes me feel cooler, even though the water dries up after five minutes and I get hot again after ten minutes, but I don't feel as hot after I pour water on myself.

Week 25: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@10:45am) bike ride = 12.35 miles, time = 56:44, pace @13.1 mph

I didn't do my run this morning, but I should have because it was actually sunny. Since it was a nice day anyway, I went on my bike ride.

Week 25: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:35am) trail/road run = 4.45 miles, time = 49:30, pace @ 11:07
• (@ 9:30am) bike ride = 10.15 miles, time = 48:58, pace @ 12.44 mph

It was sunny this morning when I went out for my run! Was that for real?! I was surprised and happy by that. I like to run when it's sunny and cool/cold. Sun makes me more motivated to run outside.

Here's a friendly reminder: Let's pay it forward and be kind to others. Please make a small donation on my charity page. Any small amounts can go a long way.

Week 24: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 8:30am) bike ride = 10.15 miles, time = 46:17, pace @ 13.1 mph

Have been lazy with running again and I know that I need to build up my endurance and base miles before starting my training.

Week 23: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@10:40am) 4.8 miles, time = 51.45, pace @ 10:47

Total Weekly Mileage: 17.46
Total Monthly Mileage: 17.46
Total Yearly Mileage: 193.59
Total Shoe Mileage: 176.46

I think I only enjoy running in warm weather when I can splash/pour water on myself. It feels good, but it doesn't stay that way for the whole run. At least, it isn't humid yet.

Week 23: Day 5 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 6:35am) trail/road run = 5.11 miles; time = 57:21, pace @ 11:19
• (@ 8:40am) bike ride = 14.03 miles, time = 1:06:04, pace @ 12.75 mph

I decided to try to run and cycle on the same day. If I do this ever again, I need to remind myself to eat a little more than a granola bar and drink a little more water in between. I know I can get away with eating a little more for a bike ride than a run because bike rides are easier on the body/stomach than running. My fingers felt "tingly" at the end of the bike ride and I think that was from not enough food and water. I felt fine during the whole ride until the end when it was time to stop. Strangely with all the running and riding up some challenging hills that I did this morning, my legs felt totally fine...not weak or heavy.

Week 23: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@8:40am) run/walk with dog = 1 mile
• (@9:25am) bike ride = 9 miles, pace @ 12.1 mph

I need to learn how to run better with Jubee and it's going to be a long road. We alternate between walking and running. We're always so tired during the running part because Jubee is fighting with me and doesn't want to run. I want her to run to burn off the extra energy (so she doesn't chew on things she shouldn't be) and I want a running buddy eventually for my normal runs.

Week 23: Day 3 - 2013

cardio:

• (@10:45am) trail/road run = 3.25 miles, time = 35:17; pace @ 10:47

I need to stop running so late in the morning/day. I was so hot and uncomfortable that I poured water (from a water bottle) on my head and splashed water on my face (restroom break). The weather and my core body temperature didn't change, but I felt better after pouring/splashing water on myself while finishing off the last one mile of my run. I still need to work on my breathing and endurance, but I felt better than yesterday.

Week 23: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 10:45am) trail/road run = 4.3 miles, time = 44:35, pace @ 10:22 mpm

My last run was last Tuesday. My pace was slower, but I didn't feel out of shape. I ran this morning. I felt out of shape and my breathing was insane! I don't know what happened. I know that my running has been pretty sporadic, running once or twice a week, but my breathing shouldn't have been out of control like it was this morning. Now is the time to get serious with running. I need to build back my endurance and get some base miles in before I start training for my half marathon next month. I don't want to struggle with my endurance during my training. Riding a bike for seven or ten miles is easy, but that doesn't really help with my running. Tomorrow is also "National Running Day", so I plan to put in a few running miles tomorrow morning.

Anyway, don't forget to make a small donation on my charity page.

Week 23: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@9am) bike ride = 7.21 miles; time = 35:21, pace @ 12.2 mph
• (@10am) 1 mile walk/run with dog

I think I'm more afraid of parked cars while I'm on a bike than moving traffic running me over. I'm afraid a driver of a parked car won't see me and will just randomly open the door at the last minute, making me unable to stop or go around safely. It hasn't happened, but I shouldn't think about it too much either.

Week 22: Day 6 - 2013

cardio:

• (@6:30am) 1 mile run/walk with my dog
• (@ 12:15pm) karate = 1 hour
• 3/4 mile walk to class
• 3/4 mile walk after class

I should be more dedicated at running with my dog. She can't get better and she won't be ready to run with me during my half marathon training if I'm sporadic in getting her to run with me.

There was a second class, but I didn't do much in it. The weather also seemed less hot after class than before. I don't think the weather really changed much between 11:45am and 2:15pm. I was sweating bullets going to class, but didn't sweat very much walking after class.

Week 22: Day 3 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:45am) bike ride = 10 miles
• (@ 6pm) hike = 7 miles

I decided to do a bike ride this morning instead of a run. I didn't time my ride this time. I made some stops (post office/bank and grocery store). They were towards the end of the ride though. I went to the grocery store to pick up some gatorade and snacks for my hike from this evening although I didn't actually needed the snacks after all.

The hike was techically eight miles...if you included the 1/2 mile walk to the ranger station from my car and the 1/2 mile walk back to my car. The park was still open after 5pm, but cars were not allowed to park inside, so I parked outside on city streets. I went on this hike before. That was my first real hike...meaning it had challenging hills and longer than 3 miles. I was very sore after the hike. I wasn't sore this time.

Week 22: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@6:20am) road/trail run = 4.33 miles; time = 48:30; pace @ 11:12 mpm

Finally had enough motivation to do a run. Let's hope that I can keep this up. I'm debating if I want to run or bike tomorrow morning. I am, however, hiking 7 miles (level 6/10) tomorrow evening. I should have a good work out in the evening with the hike because I'm going with a hike group and I have done this hike before. I still want to do some kind of work in the morning though.

Week 22: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@8:30am) bike ride = 8.03 miles, time = 40:47, pace @ 11.8 mph

I went on my bike ride this morning and I went on a street that I wouldn't normally go on. Because today was a major holiday and there was less traffic. On this one street, the right lane gets narrow and doesn't comfortably fit a bicyclist and motorists on a small section of the street. On a normal Monday with normal amount of traffic, I wouldn't go on this street in fear that I might get hit and run over.

Week 21: Day 7 - 2013

cardio:

• (@11am) bike ride = 9 miles, time = 45:04, pace @ 12mph

Total Weekly Running Mileage: 8.01
Total Monthly (May) Running Mileage: 13.77
Total Yearly Running Mileage: 161.80
Total Running Shoe Mileage: 154.67

I need to figure out a way to find some motivation for running. I start training for the Long Beach Half Marathon in a month (July) and I need to get a running base going before I start training. My running has been sporadic and my endurance is not as good as it used to be.

Since I skipped out on my run this morning from lack of running motivation, I opted for a bike ride instead. I did this nine mile loop...it's a familiar running route that I sometimes do, but I run in the opposite direction (against traffic). When I rode in the "correct" direction (going with traffic for safetry reasons) this morning, there was this challenging hill near the beginning of the ride. Since I usually run in the opposite direction and I knew that it was a challenging hill (which was why I always run in the opposite direction), I didn't realize how challenging it was. My legs are still feeling a bit like jello now because of this challenging hill. If I ride on this hill often enough, I'll get better and stronger.

Let's pay it forward and make a small donation! Click on my charity page.

Week 21: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@6:00am) trail/road run = 4.45 miles, time = 49:49, pace @ 11:12

I don't know what happened that made me run slower than usual this morning. I went to bed early and slept ok (not great, but not bad). It was overcast and cool. I don't know, but at least, I put in my run for the day.

As a reminder, let's please pay it forward and make a small donation on my charity page. Every little bit counts! http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid

Week 21: Day 3 - 2013

cardio:

• (@10am) bike ride = 8.26 miles, time = 37:18, pace @ 13.3 mph (4:38 minutes per miles)

I decided to go on a bike ride this morning and do my run tomorrow morning instead. I'll feel a little more rested tomorrow morning because I don't have to work tonight and I can go to sleep at a normal hour.

Week 21: Day 2 - 2013

cardio:

• (@10:15am) trail/road run = 3.56 miles, time = 37:50, pace @ 10:38

Going for a run at 6am (the time that I want to run at) is hard for me to do lately. I have been getting home from work late and I'm always tired when I wake up at 5:30am. Luckily, it wasn't humid or smoggy when I went running at 10:15am, even though it was really warm. Smog makes it hard for me to breathe and a high humidity level makes me sweat so much that I almost drown in it. I should start running with bottled icy cold water. I was uncomfortable with the warm weather during the first half of my run until I made a pit stop at a public restroom in a park. I felt better about the weather and running in it after splashing cold/cool water on my face and head.

On a side note: Let's pay it forward and make a small donation on my charity fundraising page.

Week 21: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 11am) bike ride = 7.61 miles

What a nice day for a bike ride, but I'm not looking forward to summer. At least, riding a bike will be easier to do in hot/humid weather than running.

I should be doing this occassionally on my blog. I'm running the Long Beach Half Marathon on Sunday, October 13, 2013 and I'm raising money for "Train 4 Autism". Let's please pay it forward and make a small donation my on charity page (http://tinyurl.com/runkaratekid). I also created a FACEBOOK fundraising page so you can follow along and keep up with updates, photos, fundraising events and random training stuff. Thanks for your donation(s) and support!

Week 20: Day 4 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:20am) walk/run with my dog = 1 mile
• (@ 10am) bike ride = 7.15 miles

 

 

I purchased my own bike yesterday, so I didn't have to ride my sister's bike anymore. Today was the first day that I took it out for a ride. My sister's bike was tolerable and uncomfortable at the same time. Now I know what it's really like to have a bike that's properly suited/built for me. I am more comfortable now. I can ride a lot faster and all the hills I rode on before had become piece of cake. A three mile ride on my sister's bike would take me 27 minutes. The same three mile ride/route on my new bike would take me 15 minutes. I actually enjoy bike rides now that I have a bike that's better suited/built for me. The front wheel can come apart and put back together if I want to fit the bike in the car and meet people for group bike rides.

 

In 2009, I took my sister's bike out and started riding short distances. One of my fitness goals that year was to ride longer distances (anything over six miles, non-stop). The longest distance in one day was eight miles, but it was broken down into two 4-mile rides. The longest distance in a single ride was 5.2 miles (or 5.7 miles?). I mainly took my sister's bike to do errands, like going to the post office, bank, and local stores, all within city limits. That meant that I had to stop and get off the bike to do whatever I had to do which didn't count as a continuous ride.

 

I finally took the plunge and got my own bike. I think this really helped. Even though I actually stopped twice (once near the beginning to adjust my seat and once at the post office towards the end of the ride), I was so happy and motivated to ride seven miles. I start training for my half marathon in July. I want to ride more so I'm not just running all the time. I also want to do those fun bike tours/"races" (i.e. Chinatown-LA Firecracker). I've joined a few bicycle groups on meetup, so I can meet them on occassion and not just throw my bike in the garage to collect dirt/cobb webs and to never be used ever again.

Week 20: Day 1 - 2013

cardio:

• (@ 9:15am) bike ride = 3 miles

It was already really warm when I went out for a bike ride this morning. I think it's summer finally. I also think that riding a bike in 80+ degrees weather is easier to do for me than running in the same weather! I'm not looking forward to running in the summer.