This MAY be the Rebels' Best Month Yet!

[K80K]

Good luck this weekend Rebel Racers! Trust in your training and it will get you there.

 

[disney_mommy]

To all you Rebels running, walking, swimming and biking this weekend - have an amazing time! Do your best, have faith in yourself and have fun!! We'll be thinking about you!

​

 

[disney_mommy]

James - giving yourself a rest day does not make you 'bad.' You recognize your personal signs and signals and train accordingly. Hope you enjoyed it!

And take your breathing treatments as prescribed! Don't mess around with that stuff.

Jen - I agree that seeing your numbers can be inspiring. That's why I also keep track. (Of course, I'm not inspiring anyone right now...)

I'm sorry you're having such a rough time of it lately. But that's great that you got right back in a good frame of mind before too long! First of all, stop comparing yourself to your husband! You two are completely different sizes with different builds and abilities. Remember all that you have accomplished.

Have you considered doing some walking, speed or just fitness? It doesn't have to be all the time, but when your allergies and shins are bothering you, it's a way for you to still be moving and getting in your mileage but without the extra stress on your lungs and legs. Plus, as you get faster and better, it will boost your endurance and your confidence!

It can be hard to fit in the long runs (I know it took me forever to do the 10 and 11 milers before my race, especially cuz I walked them). But just do what you can. Any bit of training will help prepare you for the big day. Even if you end up walking the entire half, you will still have completed it! Whatever you do, don't push yourself so hard that you just give up. Maybe slowing down a little is just what you need to get your groove back.

Jane - You're not the only one that is back after a hiatus! But you're always welcome! We're always here ready to encourage and support you. I'm glad you signed up for the Wine & Dine! Hopefully we'll see each other there! (I've added both of your races to the calendar.)

Happy running anniversary!

Tiffany - I agree with your idea about not talking yourself into a workout or training session. Just get dressed and go. The more I try to convince myself to do it, the more excuses I come up with, and the less likely I am to actually do it! If I just stop thinking about it and put on the workout clothes and shoes, I am way more likely to do it.

I hope your leg heals up nicely and doesn't give you any trouble tomorrow.

And good luck!


I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend with beautiful weather and motivation to spare!

 

[RENThead09]

Evening Rebels...

Just back from a day at the Supercross here in Vegas. That was one interesting event.

Did 3 miles this morning at my 10K pace (or tried). Been working on going from 12 min pace with my marathon back towards 10 min pace for my DL half. I was a little frustrated that 3 miles kicked my butt, especially after doing a marathon 6 months ago, but then I realized the important part is that I DID 3 miles at a better pace and that is a great start. Each step is a step closer to that Coast to Coast medal.

Vacation for the next week, so I have 2 sessions with my torturer ( i mean trainer at 24hr Fitness). Hopefully I can move my arms this week after she is done with me. Took me 3 days last time. And couple runs. Then headin to Disneyland for the a long weekend and some motivation runs around the property ( and probably an Angels game as well).

Congrats to everyone who had an event this weekend. This is the icing on the training cupcake!

Tiffany...Glad to hear you are doing the DL Half. They have the 5th Anniversary logo on the website. Wonder if it is a peak at what our medals will look like. Not sure where you are in Cali, but I am doing a 10k in Cypress on July 24th as a training race/birthday race. $25 for the run and it sounds like fun. Would be cool to have any other SoCal Rebels run as well.

Jane...congrats on starting up again. I am in the same boat as you. Luckily we have this incredible support team here to help us get going again.

James...good luck with the lungs. Get them healthy! A couple extra rest days will definitely pay off in the long run. Happy Coughing!

Greatchen...I totally agree with you. Getting going is the hardest part. For me, that is the first half mile to a mile. Then things settle in and we are good to go. Like someone suggested in another thread. if you gonna run in the morning, just sleep in your running clothes so you are ready to do with no excuses.

Andrea...Thank you again for being the Empress of this Empire! Can you please add me for the Disneyland Half Marathon and also the Cypress 10K on July 24th.

Thanks all. Happy Running!

-pat

 

[wdwprncess77]

Hi Everyone! Winding down on this sunday night. Getting prepared for the week, so i'm checking in.

Pat - Welcome back! The important part IS that you did the 3 miles. Getting that coast to coast metal sounds like a real motivator for you. I hope to get that next year.

Well, yesterday was my first group run. We did 3.4 miles in Central Park. Needless to say, i'm a little sore today. For starters I haven't really been running until this past week and my route is so flat. It's great to incorporate hills into the run so i'm really prepared come race day. But I wasn't prepared at all yesterday. Oh - and it was the most humid day we've had all year here. Got everything thrown at me at once. But I finished it. And today I've been resting. Oddly enough, my back hurts today...and that never hurts. But I'm taking tomorrow off too so that I recover and can do my short runs this week.

Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms!!!! Have a great week!

 

[ghoulishgirl]

Hey Rebels! Saturday was the SheROX Tempe triathlon: 750 meter swim, 13.5 mile bike and a 5k run. Friday was packet pickup at the race site and it was HOT! Here is the Salt River where I will swim the next day. Don't be fooled, that water is green and nasty! The yellow buoy you see is the last one before you swim back in and trust me it looks like it's a long way away even in person!

Here I am all body marked and getting my transition ready. that red lulumon bag? That was the goody bag. Nice bag, not too many goodies.

Saturday morning was already 68 degress already at 7:00 a.m. The water temperature was supposedly 73.5 degrees. It didn't feel like it. We got in and it took my breath away! We didn't get alot of time to acclimate, as the waves went off every 4 minutes. Starting horn goes off, and I started okay but then I had what I would call a moderate-level freak out. We were swimming into the sun, I think my goggles were fogged up because I couldn't see anything, couldn't get my breathing under control and just started to panic. I was thisclose to quitting and started to look for a kayaker or surfboard to grab onto and quit, but there was no one around me to help! So what choice to I have? I gotta keep going to even get to the help. I even had about 4 good strokes where I felt really good, but I had to keep stopping to sight. I should've tried to fix my goggles but just couldn't bring myself to take them off. Need to work on my sighting. Here I am coming out! The volunteer is telling me to watch the step, I felt fine, but there was a girl sitting on the step catching her breath (I think).

Transition was fine and off I go with my rented bike (thanks Arizona Outback Adventures)

Bike was fine, 2 loops, 6.75 miles each. Felt good, but was wishing I had rented a road bike instead of a hybrid. Streets were really nice and smooth. Ate 3 clif shot blocks and drank gatorade on the bike. No photos from mom, hopefully pro photos will be nice.

Transition 2 goes fast because I biked in my running shoes. Drop off bike, take off helmet, get running cap and number belt and off I go! My mom had been talking to random strangers while waiting for me and when I came into transition, mom and random strangers were all cheering for me. It was funny! Legs feel so weird when you start running and it was hot so I just told myself to make it to the 1 mile mark. Just before the marker I had started talking to a nice girl and we ran together and talked for a while and that was nice. I make the 1 mile in 10:33 and I think to myself "no way, this course is short." Mile 2 is 10:14, same thought goes through my head. Mile 3 is also 10:14. I managed to run the whole thing in the heat after 2 other events at a pace that can be hard for me even on a day when I should be fresh. That horrible dead legs feeling goes away if you keep running. I did walk the water stops and an area on the course that was so steep and rocky and you had to walk down it. There was a brutal hill that I didn't walk on and I felt really proud about that. Even had some energy for a final kick. Here's a finisher's photo:

If you've made it this far, thanks for reading and a big thanks for all the well wishes, you guys are the best!

 

[jenanderson]

Oh my...I am behind again. I am going to report in happily tonight because my running got better. Before I get to that though, I will make all my replies first...

Jane - Yep, I totally had a block going and it was horrible for a couple of weeks. The only good thing is that I think it is gone now and I hope it stays gone!

How is your Galloway group going? I think running with a group would be motivating. DH and I are considering doing some running with the group that runs in our city. How fun to be running and know that you are training for the Wine-n-Dine! I would love to be able to do more Disney races but I would have to get another job to support that habit!

James - I took your advice and slowed down. It was the best thing that I could do. I think some of my problem was also just the fear of this 1/2 marathon coming up. However, I have come to realize that I can do this and you are right...the medal around my neck with be totally worth it!

The pollen count here has really been horrible at times. I have had good days and bad days with my cough and breathing. Hope you are still taking care of your breathing situation and continue to feel better!

Tiffany - Can't wait to hear about your race! I am sure that you did great because you were so well prepared! Too funny...I see that you are posting as I write this so I can't wait to read what you have to say about it.

Your advice about just putting on my clothes and not thinking about it is so true. I also keep trying to think about what race I will be signing up for after the 1/2 because I know that I will stop running if there is not another race on my calendar.

Jen - I agree that seeing your numbers can be inspiring. That's why I also keep track. (Of course, I'm not inspiring anyone right now...)

I'm sorry you're having such a rough time of it lately. But that's great that you got right back in a good frame of mind before too long! First of all, stop comparing yourself to your husband! You two are completely different sizes with different builds and abilities. Remember all that you have accomplished.

Have you considered doing some walking, speed or just fitness? It doesn't have to be all the time, but when your allergies and shins are bothering you, it's a way for you to still be moving and getting in your mileage but without the extra stress on your lungs and legs. Plus, as you get faster and better, it will boost your endurance and your confidence!

It can be hard to fit in the long runs (I know it took me forever to do the 10 and 11 milers before my race, especially cuz I walked them). But just do what you can. Any bit of training will help prepare you for the big day. Even if you end up walking the entire half, you will still have completed it! Whatever you do, don't push yourself so hard that you just give up. Maybe slowing down a little is just what you need to get your groove back.

Andrea - Thanks for all the advice. I did do a lot of reading, researching and soul searching about my running after that absolutely horrible night. I have also just accepted that there are probably going to be more absolutely horrible nights in my running career. DH also said the same thing...even if we have to walk the whole half...at least we will have done a half. It is great to be able to come here and hear what everyone thinks and get the encouragement and advice I need to get myself back out there.

Pat - I hope you have a great vacation! I laughed so hard when I read your comment about your trainer...this is part of what scares me about looking into a trainer - I don't want to be tortured!

AFM - Well, I should first say that I am out of the running funk. DH and I had a really long talk about running together. It is really important to him to keep running with me and so we are going to work on something that will work for both of us and that means slowing down again.

On Thursday we went out and ran 5.8 miles and kept a pace of 10:48. It was such a wonderful run. I always really struggle the first mile as we get going and things begin to improve throughout the 2nd mile. By the time I get past that point, I am running good. We only had an hour (we were running while DD was at dance), but if time would have allowed, I would have gone further. DH was true to his word, he ran my pace and he even said it went well.

On Saturday we went out for our long run to see what we could do. We ran 8.8 miles and kept a pace of 11:40. It was much slower because we ran 4 miles, then walked 1 mile (briskly), then ran 3 miles then walked .8 (again briskly). I know that we will not be able to run the entire half that we have coming up so we wanted to incorporate some walking into our run to see what happens to our time. The conditions were not great - we had bad wind, a bit of rain, a bit of snow, and pelting sleet! Despite it all, we felt really good when we were done. Exhausted but good. We were pleased that we did not feel out of breath really (there were some bad hills that were a bit of a challenge), but both talked about how parts of our bodies felt tired. My knees hurt a bit and DH calves were sore.

Our goal for this week is to run 3-4 on Monday, 2-3 on Wednesday, 6 on Thursday and then 10 over the weekend. It could be a challenge because our weather is predicted to be really gross this week.

Alright, I feel like I wrote a book to you all but I wanted to really say thank you to everyone for the support and advice and let you know I am back at it. Hope all the moms are having a great day and that everyone has a good week!

Jen

 

[K80K]

Tiffany: GREAT JOB! You are so much braver than I. I will never do a tri...fear of the open water swim. So I have to live vicariously through others like you, so thank you for sharing.

 

[K80K]

Checking in with spin class, upper body weights and a core workout. My muscles feel tired, but that is a good thing right? I hope to get myself up to doing a century and maybe a duatholon in 2011. Starting with my spin class and some riding on the weekends to support my running friends who are training for either the MCM or NYC.

 

[ghoulishgirl]

Katie: I'm terrified of the open water swims too! Here's a secret though: wear a wetsuit, then you don't have to be a really good swimmer. You float like a cork!

 

[disney_mommy]

Pat - Hey, Pat. You are absolutely right - the important thing is that you took that step! It took you 3 days to recover from your torture, I mean training session?! Jeez louise! She must work you to the bone! I love your comment about the race being the icing on the training cupcake. That is such a great quote.

Enjoy your long weekend in DLR!


Jane - Ugh, it sounds like you had some real obstacles for your first group run. But you overcame them like a champ. I bet you feel like you really accomplished something.


Tiffany - What a great race recap! It sounded like you had a good time, except for that one little episode which you seemed to handle wonderfully. And now you will be better prepared for the next one. I love that your mom was getting strangers to cheer for you. She must be so proud. I'm proud of you, too! You worked so hard to train and prepare (both phyically and mentally) for the race, and you earned that medal the hard way. You go girl!!


Jen - Glad you recognized your funk for what it was and moved on. You are lucky to have such a great husband that wants to keep up with you. I'm glad you two seem to have found your common pace.

You had a great pace for the 8.8. Even with that nasty weather. And sleet?! It's May for goodness sake!


Katie - Great workout, Katie! And great goals! If anybody can do them, it's you.


I hope the moms had a great day yesterday. I went out with mom and my son for a nice brunch, then we sat around watching TV. My son was extra clingy, which was fine! At 11, I have to enjoy those times while I can, because they are coming so infrequently now.

We had a big yard sale Saturday morning and I used that opportunity to get out my bike, dust it off and pump up the tires and give it a whirl around the block. Now that it's back up and running, I'm hoping my son and I can start biking together. He recently decided he was ready to finally learn to bike, so I hope that's something we can do together.

My sinuses are bothering me today again. I can blame that on the crap outside, Mother's day and a thoughtless boss. Lots of blame to go around!

Anyway, I hope everyone has a great week!

 

[RENThead09]

Jen...heard that weather was not the best this past weekend. My parents called and warned me the next time I move, there better be an extra room or 2 so they can come and visit on weekends like this past one. Dad said the dog likes it though, and that in Monticello, the snow never really stayed on the ground.

Tiffany...Congrats on the Tri. I can't believe you all swam in that water. Major props to you. Love the Tempe area (Go Devils!) and WOW on an amazing running leg to finish it off.

To those of you looking at spinning class..BRING WATER! I went through 2 full bottles at my last class. Crazy how much you sweat in those classes.

Have a great week everyone!

Run Fun!

 

[disney_mommy]

Andrea...Thank you again for being the Empress of this Empire!

Forgot to say earlier, I love this title!! I think everyone should address me in this way from now on.

 

[K80K]

To those of you looking at spinning class..BRING WATER! I went through 2 full bottles at my last class. Crazy how much you sweat in those classes.

I definitely second that. I am a big sweater to begin with. Along with the 2 bottles of water bring a towel with you. I soaked mine right through this morning. I caught the instructor off gaurd this morning since I am returning from a 6 month hiatus.

 

[grstink]

Hi Rebels.
Congratulations TiffanyGreat job. I loved your recaps and pics.
It was not such a great weekend exercise-wise for me. It was busy and the weather did not cooperate; so my walking plans kinda got shot down. However, I did enjoy Mother's Day with my family and even spoke with my son who is stationed in Alaska right now.
Good news is I did get out today for my 4m walk in sunshine (still very windy tho) and it felt great. My time is improving even with the few days break.
Hope everyone has a great week.

 

[wdwprncess77]

Hi everyone -

off day for me today. Just needed an extra recovery from saturday's run.

Tiffani - Congrats to you! I was reading your post at work today and some girls in my office were so inspired, they are going to sign up for a tri. I'm going to pass (I kinda hate swimming), but I thought you would love to know that not only do you Rock for completing it, but you've inspired others.

Andrea - yes, you are the Empress. I think that's fantastic.

Gretchen - I feel ya with this weather. I had to wear my winter coat this morning to work. But at least the wind has died down a bit. I'm glad you were able to talk to your son.

I'll check in again tomorrow. Have a great night!

 

[wdwprncess77]

Oh - where can I get the cute little pictures for the 2011 half and the wine n dine half? The ones that are in everyone's signatures. I wanted to update mine but I don't know where to find those.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[jenanderson]

Katie - Sounds like you are doing a lot of extra working out right now. I need to take a lesson from you and get going on my cross training. I had been biking to and from work but it suddenly is just too cold again. I am hoping for some warm weather again soon!

Andrea - I do feel really lucky that DH wants to run with me enough that he really has slowed his pace. We had really been enjoying our time together and feel that way again now that we are both on the same page again.

Sounds like you had a nice mom's day yesterday. You do have to cherish all the moments where the kids still want to be clingy. My DD (14) spent most of the day in her room...she is way past the clingy stage. I think it will be great if you are able to bike with your son!

I hope your sinuses get better soon! That is no fun!

Pat - Ooh...the weather here is horrible. We are cold and rainy again tonight. I feel lucky we got our run in tonight. Tomorrow night is suppose to be even worse. This weekend the snow did not stay on the ground in the cities either but it was still no fun to see it again. I hope you are enjoying your beautiful weather!

Gretchen - Great walk today! Hope you enjoyed your 4 miles. I am sure your time will continue to improve as you walk more and more!

Jane - I hope you enjoyed your day off today. Recovery days are so nice!

Tiffany - Read through your report...you are incredible! Way to go on the whole thing. I am so happy that you were able to work through the swimming part and that you went on to finish! WAY TO GO!!!!

AFM - The weather is still cruddy. It is cold, windy and rainy. Despite it all, I did my 3 miles tonight because I knew it needed to be done. Took the first 2 miles easy and then did the last mile pretty fast (plus it had started raining harder). Tomorrow will be a day off for me.

Later!
Jen

 

[K80K]

Jen: The downswing in temps has been tough to deal with. It was so nice and warm, almost too warm, so I put my cold gear up on the high shelf and now I find myself pulling it back down. It can definitely make one feel deflated. I am trying to be optimistic knowing that it means we have more of a break before the real heat sets in.

Checking in with a 4.5 mile tempo run this morning. I am trying to build up to a 7 mile tempo run. My running schedule is all out of whack right now. During the winter months I lost distance in my weekday runs but not my weekend long runs. So I am doing a 10% increase but my long run mileage is staying roughly the same as I slowly increase the distance of my weekday runs. I know, a little backwards, but I think I am in a good place with it, lol.

 

[jwalker1]

Hi Rebels!!! Oh boy, I need to get caught up here!

Tiffany – Great race Report and great job!

Jen – Sounds like your training is going good again, keep up the good work! I think you will do awesome in your race.

Everyone – Thanks for all of your well wishes! It is definitely appreciated.

AFM – I have taken the cut back week a little to far the wrong way. I totally skipped the 5 mile walk over the weekend. I was just honestly not in the mood. Unfortunately, I only managed to get in 6 miles in last week. This week is back to normal and it is a 16 mile week, whew, I will have to take it slow, just in case. I think I will be OK even though I have had a lazy week.

Most of my problem has been my breathing and my struggle to train around it. It just has not been that fun for me the last few weeks. However, I am showing some signs of recovery. I just need to stick with the game plan and not get discouraged.

Anyway, Rebels, have a great day!