A "Nice" run & a little strength focus

Yesterday afternoon, I went out for a 4-5 mile run. I just set out to run, with no specific pace or distance in mind, which was more relaxing. Of course, when training starts again 6/1, it will be different. For now, this is working and I am enjoying it. I feel that this way, I won't get burned out. In fact, I'm starting to really enjoy the runs again, like I did a few months ago. I did a 4.2 mile loop near my house, with winds around 13-15 (I'm guessing) and I just closed my eyes while it was hitting me or looked down - "No big deal - afterall, I'm doing my marathon in the windy city" and got through it. I picked my pace up a bit on the back side of the run, which is a nice stretch of 1.5 on a great running road several of us use a lot. After I returned home to look at my pace - I was smiling because of an improvement of pace, with a small increase in distance. 9:31 pace.

Today - Lunch --
I headed to the gym for a quick full body strength session. I've read and researched so much lately on strength training for runners to get a good schedule down, that I can alter every now and then depending on the day/burnout. I've been sporadically doing free weights at home when I have extra time. But, now I want it in a regular schedule once a week, maybe 2. So, doing a full body routine is what I read as best for runners, that are focused on a specific running plan. So, here is what I did today... It will be changed up a little soon though.

To warmup, I hopped on the treadmill to do 5 min at a 8:58 pace.
dumbbell curls - 3 x 15 (8lb)
1-arm dumbbell rows - 3 x 15 (8lb)
dumbbell bench press - 3 x 15 (8lb)
side raises - 2 x 15 (8lb)
squats - 3 x 15 (10lb)
lunges - 3 x 15 (10lb)
Hopped on the bike to do 5 min, all out - 1.19 miles. Just pushing my legs fast after those squats and lunges - Loved the burn!

To top it all off - 100 curl-ups/30 push-ups

It felt good to get back in the gym, and lucky for me, I can do this workout at lunch as well. David and I used to eat out 2/3 times a week at lunch, now it is rare for us to eat out once a week. It's all working out!!! and I enjoy it much better. I do have to hurry though, don't want to take too advantage of the flexibility I have. So, I don't stop by the house anymore, and I bring in lunch from home in the AM.

Today I have a DR appt at 3:30, for my blood pressure. In March, at the YMCA, It was tested and Christine told me it was on the high side - to "monitor it", which I haven't until the other day, then again today - it is high. So, I'm getting it checked out today. Wish me luck...

4 comments:

David said...

You'll be fine at the doctor, I'm sure of it. I'll have to call ahead and get him to prescribe you a little "sumthin-sumthin" 3-5 times a week. ;-)

Unknown said...

Great job with the workouts! It sounds like you are getting some really good instruction for your swimming. It really is all about technique...more like a golf swing than running or cycling. Good luck with the doctor...nothing but good news I hope.

Marcy said...

You sound like me with the sporadic free weights. Uggghhhh I just can't get into it. I'm sure it would help me a good deal though. Good for you getting in a plan with them!

Good luck with the Dr!!

Wes said...

Hey David! I hear sex is a great way to lower blood pressure. I'll call Mendy and prescribe her THAT l'il sumthin sumthin! LOL. Hope you can handle 3-5 times a week without ruining your tri-career :-)