I think I have figured it out ...

As you all know I have been running now for a few years. The last couple of years I have even been able to get better with my races - improving times in all race distances, 5 milers, 10Ks, 10 Milers and half-marathons.

Usually when I crank up my training I do find that I get more sore - a few aches and pains in the legs but over the last few weeks I have not had those aches and pains - even with an increase in running. Today was a medium run - just under 6 miles with some good hills - I am so glad that they finished the Croson Road link to Belmont and then of course Ridgeway has another good hill. The run felt great.

So what exactly is it that I figured out - I think it is core cross-training. On my non-running days I am doing an hour of kayaking and a couple of those days a half hour in the gym where I keep it basic. I think the kayaking and gym work have really helped my core strength and that in turn helps my running. Interesting how all these things relate.

The other great thing about kayaking is it is so relaxing. I go mostly in the mornings and what a great way to start a day - it is quiet - very few if any people - just me - some herons and a lot of open water.

Maybe that sanity break is helping too :-)

Lyme, Lyme go away .....

So it is the end of my second week of official training for the Marine Corps Marathon and now I know why I have been achy. The training has been going well. I had a nice 12 mile run in St. John's yesterday and felt good doing a hot 3 miles when we arrived back in Virginia today ... but .... I have been more than a little achy and I now know why.

I had gone for my annual physical a little over a week ago and when they were going through the planned blood tests I asked if they could also throw in a Lyme screening because I had been achy and had trouble sleeping. Well I got the word while in Newfoundland that my suspicions we correct and I once again had Lyme disease. Well now that I know I can treat it and hopefully the achiness will also disappear.

In regards to the MCM training I am going to start adding some pieces to my running page as an ongoing update. It should be fun given this weeks long run is 14 miles.


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Two weeks later ....

14 days ---- that is how long I was out of training. I last ran in London and within a day of that I started what eventually became Bronchitis. I did not know that until a week later - so I had taken the week to try and get through my "cold". Well when I saw the doctor he said it was bronchitis so another week of imposed rest. Yesterday I went for a short run - a little over 3.5 miles. Felt good - no troubles. This morning I got up and decided to try out the new chain on my mountain/commuter bike by riding to work. 25 miles later the chain was great and I was doing ok. I struggled on a couple of hills but all in all felt good. Now the question is can I get back in shape for the 1st of June and the Reston Sprint? Ishi means determination - I will need all I can muster.

--- cu