Post by: Poet on January 30, 2020, 09:31:53 pm
open 4 surprise
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcT6q9B4_qepl5r5an5GMJzXZk34c692oQ-5ozbn_SBiAA9Y6AXP)
So, hey friends. Great to see you again! :))
Pretty self explanatory - I've started running.
Yep.
I've been very seriously debating beginning a thread about this part of my life for a long time - I didn't want to seem as if I was copying others and their personal journeys, but I also wasn't sure how much dedication I had to running and keeping myself strong, fit and healthy. It's very difficult for me to accept the fact that I am not immediately perfect at everything, and thus I become disheartened quite quickly. Running can take quite a bit of effort, upkeep and pain before it's properly enjoyable, and so I need to keep myself accountable through it.
Dating an avid (and very, very good, although he won't say it) runner for almost a year means that a large chunk of our life together has revolved around training and competing. Almost every weekend means a race or hard run, which I've always been privy to but never done for myself. I'm surrounded by runners and people passionate about running, and I've been a spectator at training and comps for months. it started out with a kiss how did it end up like this it was only a kiss it was only a kiSS
I've always wanted to be a field hockey player, but due to a few factors, (including my chronic tendinitis), most years of my life have not seen any exercise outside of school sports. I've also been quite sick for more than a year now, clinically depressed and anxious for five years, and I'm tired of it all. I need an outlet. I need to feel included. I need strength. And most importantly, I need consistency.
So what do you know - I started running a couple of weeks ago! It didn't go too well. I got about 200 metres before I lost my breath.
Then I ran again; just a little bit. Just where people can't see me. And I finished at about 400 metres. This time my legs hurt a little bit.
And then Erutepa invited me to run with him on his cool down, and so I did. Adrenaline kicked in and I managed to snail my way through a full kilometre feeling very proud of myself.
And the origin story begins.
AND SOOOOOO so far over the past 2 weeks or so, I've run 3 times per week doing either 1km run/rest or 400m run/200m walk sessions. I also did the Altona Beach Parkrun, which was 5kms, last Saturday and managed to run/walk it in 38 minutes and 48 seconds, which is a fantastic time to improve upon because I cannot possibly do worse next time. My last run was yesterday and I managed 1km run and then fast walk for 500m before another 1km. I did get a cramp which was annoying, but I've definitely improved quite drastically from the first effort 3 weeks ago.
My aim is to eventually be able to run the entire 5kms of a Parkrun; and when I can do that, I'll start on another goal. I want to be able to keep a good pace. I want to be able to feel like what I'm doing is valid. So if I don't update this, please encourage me to. I need it.
Post by: Bri MT on January 30, 2020, 09:35:56 pm
Post by: sweetiepi on January 30, 2020, 09:39:44 pm
We're here for every step of the journey! ^-^
Post by: Erutepa on January 30, 2020, 09:42:25 pm
Hopefully we can get to a parkrun this saturday and beat that time!
We're here for every step of the journey! ^-^*Every stride - hopefully there won't be too much more walking ;)
Post by: Poet on January 30, 2020, 09:46:50 pm
Proud of you for pushing through the start of this journey
Thank you fren. Hopefully I'll update within the next couple of days!You've got this <3Thank you Lou! You're so sweet.
We're here for every step of the journey! ^-^
I am very glad to see you starting to run!Oh boy keen for that 5:45AM rise and shine time!! Hopefully we're not almost late this time pls hehe ;-;
Hopefully we can get to a parkrun this saturday and beat that time!
*Every stride - hopefully there won't be too much more walking ;)
(Ahaha ur soooo funnyyyyyyy)
Post by: ArtyDreams on January 30, 2020, 09:55:18 pm
Post by: w0lfqu33n89 on January 31, 2020, 07:06:05 pm
So proud of you for this. Thats such an amazing improvement already in 3 weeks! (I assume...im not a runner...ill leave that for Erutepa to decide).
Post by: Coolmate on January 31, 2020, 09:15:46 pm
Post by: Ionic Doc on January 31, 2020, 09:34:11 pm
I've always wanted to be a field hockey player, but due to a few factors, (including my chronic tendinitis), most years of my life have not seen any exercise outside of school sports. I've also been quite sick for more than a year now, clinically depressed and anxious for five years, and I'm tired of it all. I need an outlet. I need to feel included. I need strength. And most importantly, I need consistency.
I hope you get better and hope that running can be the outlet you need.
My aim is to eventually be able to run the entire 5kms of a Parkrun; and when I can do that, I'll start on another goal. I want to be able to keep a good pace. I want to be able to feel like what I'm doing is valid. So if I don't update this, please encourage me to. I need it.
I look forward to seeing you conquer this goal and look forward to seeing your improvement updates very soon :D
Post by: Poet on February 01, 2020, 04:52:38 pm
replies to posts in this thread:
So excited to see where this is headed Poet! You've got this :DThank you for the encouragement!!!
YoU aInT eVeR gOnNa BrEaK mY sTrIdE, yOu AiNt EvEr GoNnA sLoW mE dOwN oH nO! iVe GoT tO kEeP oN mOvInG!OmG TikTok iS mY lIiIiIiFe
In other words, I appreciate you and that was a botched Vine reference.
This is awesome Poet! I can't wait to hear more updates ;D ;DThanks! Updates, I hear? Heckin' NEOWM HERE SHE COMES
I like how you've set out realistic goals yet at the same time goals that will also challenge your abilities. :)Well, I'm hoping my goals are realistic! Thank you 💙
I hope you get better and hope that running can be the outlet you need.
I look forward to seeing you conquer this goal and look forward to seeing your improvement updates very soon :D
Hi, I'm back with an update! Today has been disgustingly humid and it was 24°C at 7am, which is when we left for the Parkrun. I ran about 4.5kms out of the 5kms that make up the parkrun, and I am pretty proud to say that 4 or so of those kms were run without stopping!!!! :DDD
Granted, my run is kind of a jog, and my jog is kind of a walk, but I did it and came 77th hehe. My time to beat was 38 minutes and 48 seconds, and I did my run this morning at... *drumroll*... 36 minutes and 26 seconds!!!
Yaaaaaayyyy!!!! A little over 2 minutes' improvement, and that was in awfully humid temperatures. I'm quite proud if my effort. Also, I'm much less sore this time than I was my first :))
I'll check in next time I run, which is most likely within the next couple of days (probably Tuesday). Adios, friends 💙
Post by: J_Rho on February 01, 2020, 06:53:44 pm
replies to posts in this thread:Thank you for the encouragement!!!
OmG TikTok iS mY lIiIiIiFe
In other words, I appreciate you and that was a botched Vine reference.
Thanks! Updates, I hear? Heckin' NEOWM HERE SHE COMES
Well, I'm hoping my goals are realistic! Thank you 💙
Hi, I'm back with an update! Today has been disgustingly humid and it was 24°C at 7am, which is when we left for the Parkrun. I ran about 4.5kms out of the 5kms that make up the parkrun, and I am pretty proud to say that 4 or so of those kms were run without stopping!!!! :DDD
Granted, my run is kind of a jog, and my jog is kind of a walk, but I did it and came 77th hehe. My time to beat was 38 minutes and 48 seconds, and I did my run this morning at... *drumroll*... 36 minutes and 26 seconds!!!
Yaaaaaayyyy!!!! A little over 2 minutes' improvement, and that was in awfully humid temperatures. I'm quite proud if my effort. Also, I'm much less sore this time than I was my first :))
I'll check in next time I run, which is most likely within the next couple of days (probably Tuesday). Adios, friends 💙
I LOVE THIS! Congrats of your new PB, you should be super duper proud! I can't wait for the next update!
Post by: Joseph41 on February 03, 2020, 01:26:22 pm
Post by: Poet on February 06, 2020, 12:15:00 pm
This session was 3kms. I started with a fast 1.5kms and then fast walk with skips for about 400m. I then jogged for 500 before another 500m fast run. I then walked home and did about 10 minutes of stretching. I didn't want to run anymore in my area because I'm very self-conscious and was scared someone I knew would see me.
On Tuesday I forgot to update but I did a pretty decent amount of running! I did 1.3km moderate run x 2 with a minute break in the middle, then a 1km slow run before doing 3 x 150m sprints with a 'float' (that's what the running people call a jog) in between. I then rested before doing a 500m cool down because I was lazy and tired.
So all up, I've run about 7.6kms this week. (if we're including my floating, I would round it up to 8kms). I won't train any more before the park run but I'm aiming for a time of 35 minutes on Saturday. Fingers crossed I can get there! Slow and steady wins the race 😊
Thanks for all your encouragement, beautiful people. It means a lot 💙
Post by: Bri MT on February 06, 2020, 03:55:41 pm
Thank you for keeping us updated & best of luck for Saturday :D
Post by: Poet on February 08, 2020, 09:06:41 am
Great work Poet!THANK YOU
Thank you for keeping us updated & best of luck for Saturday :D
HIIIII SO I FINISHED MY RUN AND I'M SWEATY AND DYING AND I SHOULDN'T HAVE STRAIGHTENED MY HAIR LOL BUT GUESS WHAT
I RAN ABOUT 33 MINUTES 35 SECONDS
AND
I
RAN THE WHOLE WAY
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
OK next goal is getting through the infamous '30 minute barrier'. I'll have to pick up my training to keep a consistent faster time per km but I'm hoping I can lower my time to sub 30 within the month.
Wooooo sub 35? Pfft who's she
Stay tuned kiddos
Post by: sweetiepi on February 08, 2020, 12:33:43 pm
Post by: Bri MT on February 08, 2020, 03:59:42 pm
Congrats!
Really nice work, proud of your dedication & it's great to see you powering through your goals
you are absolutely welcome, as always
Post by: Owlbird83 on February 08, 2020, 07:28:57 pm
You are inspiring me to be more active!!!
Good luck!! ;D ;D
Post by: Poet on February 12, 2020, 11:58:58 am
I should have updated earlier but I've been feeling very sad and self-hatey and slept most of yesterday and this morning so I didn't say what I did.
Erutepa physically pulled me out of bed to go to training yesterday afternoon and I cried a bit but we got to the track and I did a 1.5km warmup before running a fast 800m (going at a pace of around 5 minutes 10 seconds/km) and a moderately quick 400m (at about a 5.20/km pace) before doing a bit of a recovery and a jog about. Really wasn't feeling good mentally or physically and so I basically walked around the track a couple of times as a cool down and sat down and didn't talk to anyone. I'm quite shy and afraid of being judged but so far the squad has been nice and I ran with one girl on my 800 and 400 who has been very kind and welcoming. Unfortunately she's leaving for Adelaide soon but she's helped a little with my confidence.
This Thursday I think I'll do strength exercises in lieu of running a lot. I'm really, really uncomfortable with the idea of running in my area so I'll try to do 20 minutes of aerobics and see if my hamstrings don't break. Depression is really kicking my ass at the moment and I'm just generally dejected and mad at myself, also I'm working a roadie gig on Saturday instead of running Parkrun, so I'll do a harder run at the You Yangs on Sunday to make up for it.
Vincit Qui Se Vincit.
Post by: Poet on February 20, 2020, 04:17:19 pm
I've been somewhat sick over the past few days (sore throat, lots of nausea, body cramps, heaps of fatigue, very depressed) and so haven't trained/run at all with the exception of yesterday. Last Thursday I attempted a strength session but a third of the way through my body said "NOPE" and I ended up in bed with severe cramps for the rest of the day, then struggled with them and nausea for the next four days after that. Nausea has continued and I haven't been eating well because of it, but cramps have improved by now. On Sunday I was still really struggling so instead of a run I went for a 4km walk with Erutepa's mum (she's basically my mum now so from now on if I just say 'mum' it means Erutepa's mum) around the mountains and took pictures. We saw a rock wallaby so y e y : )))))))
Yesterday I tried to go out for a run and managed about 15 minutes of running time total. I would run for about 2-3 minutes at a time then walk until I felt I could run again. I was finding it hard to breathe though so I went home and did some rolling (not literally rolling around the house, I mean muscle rolling with foam rollers), had a shower, fell asleep (again) and tried to forget how much of a failure I am.
Tangent --> OmG my cat just stepped on the keyboard and opened an EMOJIS OPTION WTF I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW I COULD DO THAT LMAO 😍👌🙀✨✨
Not entirely sure what my plan is for the next few days but I think I'll just feel it out and make sure my body is doing ok. I never want to push it too hard but it is very frustrating to watch myself go downhill and not do anything about it. I haven't even left my room today - haven't had anything to drink or eat. My body just doesn't want it. I'm going out on Saturday and maybe Sunday, so I'll try to run on one of those days. If I end up feeling good enough for Parkrun, I doubt I'll beat my time but it's just a matter of picking myself back up from this again. I'm very numb right now and I say these things that sound positive but it's all just flat.
Hope you're all well and thank you for being here. I'm sorry I'm not around enough anymore but I really do love this place.
Post by: Bri MT on February 20, 2020, 05:29:31 pm
Thanks for updating us :)
Sucks about the cramps & nausea - I hope that you're find it easier to eat and are feeling better soon. Having points where you struggle definitely doesn't make you a failure and you don't need to apologise. Glad you love this place :)
Sounds like a nice walk :) Also, thank you for clarifying rolling because I definitely would've been confused otherwise.
Post by: Poet on February 23, 2020, 07:25:15 pm
Still feeling super duper down and useless but I need to update everyone on my Saturday. I made myself eat and drink more on Friday to build up energy/compensate for the lack of food I'd had over the last few days so I felt a bit better going into the next day.
Yesterday I got up early and went to Parkrun. My aim was to do a walk/run and not push myself too much so I did a fast 2.6km (to the top of the hill in Parkrun) and then walked for most of the way back and sprinted the finish. I probably could've gone harder but I was going to training afterwards so left some energy. Turns out I ran sub 15 minutes for the first half of the Parkrun and managed a 37.51 time even with all the walking, which is still a minute less than my pathetic first time hahaha. After parkrun we had about a half hour break before some hill reps (repetitions, sprinting up the hill then walking back down and repeating). I did 4 x 200m hill sprints and basically slowed to a jog by the end because my legs were so tired, but it was rewarding. Cool down was just a fast walk with some of the sprinters - I'm glad at least one of them is willing to talk to me. And then I went to see Shrek the Musical, and that was an exercise in itself. My legs were actually burning for half of it. Bad idea to sit for that long after so much exercise. And now I'm sore lmao.
My nausea has improved a bit since and although my legs are sore I really think running is helping a bit with my sleep and overall mood (I'm still tired and sleep about 14+ hours a day but it's all relative), and I am going to do a session on Tuesday by myself then go to training on Thursday. I'll update either then or on the weekend which is when Victorian Champs is!
See you around, lovelies 💙
Post by: Erutepa on February 23, 2020, 08:45:32 pm
Turns out I ran sub 15 minutes for the first half of the ParkrunSoon you'll be running that pace for the whole run!!! #sub30gang #gottagofast #neowm #hashtag #isthishowyoudothis
p.s clearly you weren't running that hard for the first half as your were talking to me most of the way ???
I am going to do a session on Tuesday by myself then go to training on ThursdayIts amazing that you're doing sessions on you're own - getting yourself out there can be tough, but you can't run with a group all the time unfortunately.
Its been awesome seeing your progress so far (and being able to run with you) and I am looking forward to seeing much more running progress, even if its just a gateway into other (less cooler) sports like hockey
Post by: Poet on February 28, 2020, 04:40:10 pm
Soon you'll be running that pace for the whole run!!! #sub30gang #gottagofast #neowm #hashtag #isthishowyoudothisOh hi, yes we were chatting for most of the way - We were running at a pace that allowed speech so I wouldn't wear myself out too much. And it is unfortunate that I can't train with a group all the time. When I do it's a lot easier to push myself, but that's just my competitive streak ;D
p.s clearly you weren't running that hard for the first half as your were talking to me most of the way ???
Its amazing that you're doing sessions on you're own - getting yourself out there can be tough, but you can't run with a group all the time unfortunately.
Quote
Its been awesome seeing your progress so far (and being able to run with you) and I am looking forward to seeing much more running progress, even if its just a gateway into other (less cooler) sports like hockeyThank you, I love you too
Back with an updaaaate
This Tuesday I did a half hour strength session focusing on legs and core. All exercises were done with a maximum of 30 second break from one to the other. I've listed what I did in the order I did it for you to assess and judge me on my weak noodle body hehe:
The Noodle Workout:
- 00:30 side hop
- x24 squats
- x48 side-lying leg lift (alternating x12 left and right)
- x28 backwards lunge (x14 left and right)
- x64 donkey kicks (x16 left and right)
- 1:00 quad stretch (00:30 left and right)
- 1:00 knee to chest stretch (00:30 left and right)
- x24 wall calf raises (x12 left and right)
- x24 sumo squat calf raises (x12 left and right)
- 1:00 calf stretch (00:30 left and right)
- 00:20 jumping jack
- x16 abdominal crunches
- x20 russian twist
- x16 mountain climber
- x20 heel touch
- x16 leg raises
- 00:20 plank
- x12 abdominal crunches
- x32 russian twist
- x12 mountain climber
- x20 heel touch
- x14 leg raises
- die a little because it hurts
- 00:30 plank
- 00:30 cobra stretch
- 1:00 lumbar twist stretch (00:30 left and right)
- x24 squats
- x48 side-lying leg lift (alternating x12 left and right)
- x28 backwards lunge (x14 left and right)
- x64 donkey kicks (x16 left and right)
- 1:00 quad stretch (00:30 left and right)
- 1:00 knee to chest stretch (00:30 left and right)
- x24 wall calf raises (x12 left and right)
- x24 sumo squat calf raises (x12 left and right)
- 1:00 calf stretch (00:30 left and right)
- 00:20 jumping jack
- x16 abdominal crunches
- x20 russian twist
- x16 mountain climber
- x20 heel touch
- x16 leg raises
- 00:20 plank
- x12 abdominal crunches
- x32 russian twist
- x12 mountain climber
- x20 heel touch
- x14 leg raises
- die a little because it hurts
- 00:30 plank
- 00:30 cobra stretch
- 1:00 lumbar twist stretch (00:30 left and right)
This Thursday however I'm not so proud of. I went rollerblading in the morning and that was a lot of fun but it triggered my achilles tendinitis. I've had tendinitis since I was about 9 or so after an accident and unfortunately it can flare up at random times and put me out of action for potentially weeks. It's why I gave up on running years ago. It's feeling a lot better today thankfully, but yesterday I ran a 2km warm up jog and it seized up before I could do more so I sat being mad at myself for the rest of the session.
Tomorrow is States comp at Lakeside Stadium and I'm super excited to see people compete. I won't be running an event but I'll do a 5km circuit around the lake and try not to get bitten by the swans. Will update after that. ILY :)) 💙
Post by: Joseph41 on February 28, 2020, 04:43:27 pm
Hope tomorrow goes well. 👍
Post by: Poet on February 28, 2020, 04:59:39 pm
The Noodle Workout is impressive! Or at least, I think it is, because I'm not sure what half of the techniques are haha.Thank you! I'm going to clarify what some of these exercises are now because I've realised they're not the easiest to interpret (I love these pictures, they all look like they're in minor pain so it's accurate):
Hope tomorrow goes well. 👍
Spoiler
Side lying leg lift:
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/airsoftbucket/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/14054443/9-26-2018-7-12-34-AM.jpg)
Donkey kicks:
(https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/LaGXtmxjfymCIPVIs4C3Q9BcWf0/fit-in/2048xorig/filters:format_auto-!!-:strip_icc-!!-/2015/04/02/857/n/1922729/edf9480e2d4d09ab_Donkey-Kick/i/Donkey-Kicks.jpg)
Sumo squat calf raises:
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/85/aa/8e/85aa8ed3fd83fe401ce5da5b56521137.jpg)
Russian twist:
(https://learnrussianlanguage.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/russian-twist.jpg)
Mountain climber:
(https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/wxamMhoTR7CqLL3vZw2bgp6CDUU/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:format_auto-!!-:strip_icc-!!-/2016/12/13/004/n/1922729/6d2c0923f51ae949_5.-slow-mountain-climber/i/Circuit-2-Slow-Mountain-Climber.jpg)
Cobra stretch:
(https://garagegymplanner.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/How-to-Do-Cobra-Pose-in-Yoga-1024x738.jpg)
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/airsoftbucket/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/14054443/9-26-2018-7-12-34-AM.jpg)
Donkey kicks:
(https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/LaGXtmxjfymCIPVIs4C3Q9BcWf0/fit-in/2048xorig/filters:format_auto-!!-:strip_icc-!!-/2015/04/02/857/n/1922729/edf9480e2d4d09ab_Donkey-Kick/i/Donkey-Kicks.jpg)
Sumo squat calf raises:
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/85/aa/8e/85aa8ed3fd83fe401ce5da5b56521137.jpg)
Russian twist:
(https://learnrussianlanguage.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/russian-twist.jpg)
Mountain climber:
(https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/wxamMhoTR7CqLL3vZw2bgp6CDUU/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:format_auto-!!-:strip_icc-!!-/2016/12/13/004/n/1922729/6d2c0923f51ae949_5.-slow-mountain-climber/i/Circuit-2-Slow-Mountain-Climber.jpg)
Cobra stretch:
(https://garagegymplanner.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/How-to-Do-Cobra-Pose-in-Yoga-1024x738.jpg)
Post by: Erutepa on February 29, 2020, 09:51:23 pm
Unfortunately Poet has engaged herself in a fierce staring contest with 3 llamas and has asked of me to perform the task of updating this journal for today. Buckle up because while this is not going to be a bumpy ride, its always good to err on the side of saftey.
Today being a saturday would normally mean a parkrun, however due to things and stuff, the parkrun was replaced by a regular old 5km run and as she was out around albert park, this 5km run took place around the lake there. The lake itself was quite a nice place to run with it being quite a clear and sunny day which also brought out the birdlife (although the swans (Poets arch nemisis) were not all that apreciated).
The run itself was quite a great training run. It started out fairly easy as she was able to maintain a conversation for the first few kms, although this conversation did begin to die off onwards on the half way mark. By the last couple kms talking almost stopped entirely and stiches (a term for sharp pains) in the abdomen as well as fatigue began to set in. with about 1km to go there was a breif bit of walking (about 100m) to try and reduce the severity of the stiches, before Poet got going again and pushed herself to finish the run.
As compared to previous 5km runs, this one was much more evenly paced (ignoring the breif walk) as poet managed to maintain aproximaely a 6.00 min/km to a 6.30min/km for the whole run. This compares to her fastest park run (33min 51sec) which started at over 7min/km but finished at 5.30min/km. This (more evenly paced) run seemed to get the most out of Poets effort as she ran about 32mins by my estimation (unfortunately I didn't get an exact time on her). Considering not the best nights sleep beforehand and definently not enough hydration before the run either, the run was an overall fantastic effort and a step closer to breaking that 30min 5km barrier. With a bit more training and perhaps even just a better nights sleep and hydration, this goal will shortly be reached.
Talking about goals, Poet has just set herself yet another one by entering in the 7km race that is running along side the geelong half marathon. The aim is to run the whole way without stopping - something which will need a bit more training to be achived. Hopefully with a few solid weeks of training, along with working that 5km time down, Poet can set herself up to do a impressive 7km run!
Hopefully Poet will beat these llamas in time for her next training session on tuesday after which she will be back for another update.
Post by: J_Rho on March 03, 2020, 08:41:29 pm
Thank you! I'm going to clarify what some of these exercises are now because I've realised they're not the easiest to interpret (I love these pictures, they all look like they're in minor pain so it's accurate):SpoilerSide lying leg lift:
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/airsoftbucket/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/14054443/9-26-2018-7-12-34-AM.jpg)
Donkey kicks:
(https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/LaGXtmxjfymCIPVIs4C3Q9BcWf0/fit-in/2048xorig/filters:format_auto-!!-:strip_icc-!!-/2015/04/02/857/n/1922729/edf9480e2d4d09ab_Donkey-Kick/i/Donkey-Kicks.jpg)
Sumo squat calf raises:
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/85/aa/8e/85aa8ed3fd83fe401ce5da5b56521137.jpg)
Russian twist:
(https://learnrussianlanguage.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/russian-twist.jpg)
Mountain climber:
(https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/wxamMhoTR7CqLL3vZw2bgp6CDUU/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:format_auto-!!-:strip_icc-!!-/2016/12/13/004/n/1922729/6d2c0923f51ae949_5.-slow-mountain-climber/i/Circuit-2-Slow-Mountain-Climber.jpg)
Cobra stretch:
(https://garagegymplanner.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/How-to-Do-Cobra-Pose-in-Yoga-1024x738.jpg)
These are all really good exercises! I used to do a variation in the side leg lift when I did dance as a school subject - my describing skills are horrendous and I cannot find a suitable image so he is a little drawing!
(https://imgur.com/ep6NeiR.png)
As not seen in the drawing you bend your knee back so you have more stability when lifting higher. Might be a fun little variation you might want to try!
Keep up the amazing work, it is truly inspirational
Post by: Poet on March 07, 2020, 03:26:57 pm
These are all really good exercises! I used to do a variation in the side leg lift when I did dance as a school subject - my describing skills are horrendous and I cannot find a suitable image so he is a little drawing!This looks like it'll hurt me, so I'll try it - thanks!
(https://imgur.com/ep6NeiR.png)
As not seen in the drawing you bend your knee back so you have more stability when lifting higher. Might be a fun little variation you might want to try!
Keep up the amazing work, it is truly inspirational
Hi guys! I have returned. I asked Erutepa to fill in my previous update because I was being attacked by llamas (also known as minor heatstroke) after being out in the sun all day and found both thinking and typing difficult. I've managed to recover since then and ran on Tuesday and today!
Tuesday's training session was really good. I felt quite accomplished after running a 1.5km warmup, 4 x 400m efforts (running as fast as I could the whole way) before ending with a 1km jogged cool down. I felt tired but pretty fit and confident I could run a sub 33 on the Saturday.
Thursday I did no training because Erutepa and I went ziplining instead! It was heaps of fun and a very unique way to celebrate a year together - love you bb 💙
Admittedly I was very lazy after Tuesday but it worked in my favour - the extra rest meant I could run harder this morning, and I did!
I was aiming for a sub 33 time but... Drumroll please... I RAN A TIME OF 28.24!!!! YYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
I actually screamed when I saw my time omg - I managed to slash my PB by more than 5 minutes and I'm ecstatic! I thought it would be difficult to get a sub 30 (and in all fairness it was, I was actually crying and gagging because I couldn't breathe and was about to vomit a km from the finish and basically passed out at the end lmao) but I did it and now that it's done I know I can keep building on that.
This week it looks like I won't be able to do any group training sessions but I'll do a run on Monday and see where I go from there. That's all! I'm going home to sleep for ages now. 😴
Post by: K888 on March 07, 2020, 04:25:08 pm
@J_Rho with stick figures like those you should consider a career in physio ;)
Post by: Poet on March 15, 2020, 03:34:32 pm
It has officially been more than a week since my last update because I'm actually the laziest person on earth. But I ran 3 times last week and have some updates!
First update: I got a running watch. It's a Garmin Forerunner 220 (handed down by Erutepa's brother) and it's super cool to use. It doesn't have an inbuilt heart rate monitor as it's an older model but it has GPS tracking, lap times, pace records, and automatic Bluetooth syncing with the Garmin Connect app. It makes it a lot easier for me to run on my own and watch my pace as well as look back on the analytics and see how my pace and cadence increases and slows with elevation and distance. Because of this, I'm going to start taking screenshots of my weekly results and putting them in this journal to see improvements, changes, goals reached, etc.
running data and details of yesterday's parkrun
Weekly Summary:
This is the main page I will display in future screenshots. This week, I recorded 4 runs. It should've been 5, however I'm still very new to using the watch and forgot to save my warmup separately to the full 5km run. You can see that throughout the week I ran a total of 11. 2kms. I aimed to do more but I've been feeling nauseous and generally ill (as per usual thanks to my weird body) so didn't push it. Below the graph you can see all 4 recorded runs with the time I ran and how long I ran.
(https://i.imgur.com/DW8KiI1.jpg)
Parkrun Details:
I don't really mind you all seeing where I ran, I literally go from one side of the city to another depending on where training will be convenient. This time it was Darebin. Darebin parkrun is very up and down, with plenty of small rises and drops, and I'm used to more of a flat run with a big hill midway through. My official Parkrun time was 29.30, however these stats and the ones further down will all be viewed with the additional 5 minutes and 740 metres that were my warmup.
You can also see my watch's GPS map tracking. The red line is where I ran. If I hadn't stopped my run in the exact same spot on the map, you would see a pin with a red square in it indicating my run's end.
(https://i.imgur.com/YHc28An.jpg)
Listed Details:
Here's my stats laid out! It should be pretty easy to read. "Cadence" basically refers to my running rhythm, how many times my feet hit the ground per minute. I'd imagine it increased as I got tired and my stride shortened. Further down, in the graphs, my cadence goes into blue near the end where I sprint the finish and into red in the spots where I begin to either jog slowly or walk.
(https://i.imgur.com/IIC7DUd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OrM0AuS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HWDkIZC.jpg)
Lap Times:
This is my data per km rather than over the entire 5kms. My aim has been to hold a 6min or below pace per km and you can see that my average pace was pulled down in the first km due to my warmup but I managed to keep a sub 6min pace.
(https://i.imgur.com/gdVh3ce.jpg)
This is the main page I will display in future screenshots. This week, I recorded 4 runs. It should've been 5, however I'm still very new to using the watch and forgot to save my warmup separately to the full 5km run. You can see that throughout the week I ran a total of 11. 2kms. I aimed to do more but I've been feeling nauseous and generally ill (as per usual thanks to my weird body) so didn't push it. Below the graph you can see all 4 recorded runs with the time I ran and how long I ran.
(https://i.imgur.com/DW8KiI1.jpg)
Parkrun Details:
I don't really mind you all seeing where I ran, I literally go from one side of the city to another depending on where training will be convenient. This time it was Darebin. Darebin parkrun is very up and down, with plenty of small rises and drops, and I'm used to more of a flat run with a big hill midway through. My official Parkrun time was 29.30, however these stats and the ones further down will all be viewed with the additional 5 minutes and 740 metres that were my warmup.
You can also see my watch's GPS map tracking. The red line is where I ran. If I hadn't stopped my run in the exact same spot on the map, you would see a pin with a red square in it indicating my run's end.
(https://i.imgur.com/YHc28An.jpg)
Listed Details:
Here's my stats laid out! It should be pretty easy to read. "Cadence" basically refers to my running rhythm, how many times my feet hit the ground per minute. I'd imagine it increased as I got tired and my stride shortened. Further down, in the graphs, my cadence goes into blue near the end where I sprint the finish and into red in the spots where I begin to either jog slowly or walk.
(https://i.imgur.com/IIC7DUd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OrM0AuS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HWDkIZC.jpg)
Lap Times:
This is my data per km rather than over the entire 5kms. My aim has been to hold a 6min or below pace per km and you can see that my average pace was pulled down in the first km due to my warmup but I managed to keep a sub 6min pace.
(https://i.imgur.com/gdVh3ce.jpg)
Second update (if you didn't read all that running data stuff): So yeah, I ran a 29.30 for my second Parkrun in a row. Darebin Parkrun is one I've never been to as well, so I'm satisfied with giving myself that leeway.
Third update: this COVID-19 boi is really hating on my goal setting. I have no idea if the 7km I signed up for will be able to go ahead. Nevertheless, I seriously need to start training heaps more and so this week I aim on doing an extra long run and a group fast session on Tuesday at the track. I also need to do a strength session but I'm super self conscious about that so I'll try to do it when nobody is home. Praying school isn't cancelled so I can do it tomorrow hehe. :)
ANYWAYS that's all for today, Poet be signing out. Stay healthy, wash your hands, eat your greens, and don't lick the tram handles OK ok
Post by: Bri MT on March 15, 2020, 05:26:09 pm
"I ran 3 times last week"
Nice work on persisting with your running!
Good luck for tomorrow :)
Post by: Poet on March 18, 2020, 12:52:48 pm
"I'm the laziest person on Earth"Haha, I see the irony. Funny how perspective changes depending on who you're with at the time/their performance. And thank you for the well wishes!
"I ran 3 times last week"
Nice work on persisting with your running!
Good luck for tomorrow :)
OK SO HELLO UM I JUST GOT AN EMAIL SAYING THAT PARKRUN IS CANCELLED INDEFINITELY AND I'M MAD ABOUT IT BUT ALSO IT MAKES PERFECT SENSE BUT GRRRRR
The solution to this problem is to turn up at the same spot at the same time and run the same course - although Parkrun has discouraged this it's not a formal gathering, it's just following my usual training regime... right??? Anyway, despite the official run being cancelled I'll continue training as I was and time myself as well as I can.
It's Wednesday and my legs are sore in a good way! On Monday I did a 20 minute Noodle Workout and yesterday I ran a track session, which means reps. Here are the details:
Spoiler
(https://i.imgur.com/n0Fq8Nl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jIfrfFM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0YKOnSQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P78Wm5Y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jIfrfFM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0YKOnSQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/P78Wm5Y.jpg)
Notes:
- I managed to separate the warmup, reps and cooldown into 3 runs; the cool down was rushed because we had to get home quickly.
- My average pace INCLUDES my recovery times - my average moving pace is a more accurate measurement.
- My lap times are highlighted in the table to display my track laps. My aim was 2 minutes per 400 metres with a 90 second rest in between reps and that's what I did. I messed up with my watch for the first rest by stopping the run instead of lapping so the timing is off but the rest is fairly accurate. My last two 400m are faster because I increased my pace for the last 100m as a final push.
- Pace decreased in the middle of every lap due to a headwind but increased again as I got a tailwind down the final strait.
- Pace and cadence increased drastically in the final 100m due to my sprint effort.
All in all I'm quite proud of this session and will be doing another fast session on Thursday before running a 5km on Saturday. A special thanks to Erutepa is in order here for being my pacer and coach for the last while in his off season love you bb. There's another couple of weeks before the winter season begins and if I continue the consistent training, it looks like I might be ready to actually compete if events begin running again after COVID-19!!
ALSO, today I also asked Erutepa's coach to officially act as my coach and he said yes!!! This is a pretty big thing for me and I'll see him on Thursday to talk more about it. Genuinely thrilled he's taking me in.
That's all for now, see you all Saturday/Sunday depending on when I decide to update. ILY bbs <333
Post by: Poet on April 14, 2020, 05:40:53 pm
I apologise for leaving this so long. It’s been almost an entire month since my last update, and I need to start this up again. It’s going to be a big one.
Please forgive me for abandoning this for so long. I didn’t think I would be alive to continue it, so the past… three weeks have consisted of me picking up the pieces I lost and finding my rhythm again.
So, without further ado, let’s get into it.
In my last entry, I mentioned that Erutepa’s coach had adopted me. That process continued regardless of my situation and so now every Sunday I receive a training plan entailing what sessions/runs I should be following that week, along with encouragements from that angel of a coach. I was in hospital for about a week and a half before being transferred to the home I’m at now, so didn’t run at all in that time. Whilst I’ve been here, however, I’ve picked up training and have recorded everything I’ve done save for 2 workouts I did whilst in hospital. Below are dated recordings and analyses of what I’ve done before I expand on what I’ve done in the past few days/what the plan is for this week!
a large goddamn archive, open at your own risk :))
19th March 2020 - track reps
Summary: 5.66kms (including warmup and cooldown) in a 45 minute track session, 200m x 10.
stats and details
(https://i.imgur.com/tkjcEFL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/d8G87mS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XtNKRIk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OsXA8pJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wp6sxMe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dXM0a0U.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/d8G87mS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XtNKRIk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OsXA8pJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wp6sxMe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dXM0a0U.jpg)
27th March 2020 - strength session
(https://i.imgur.com/DjJ28xS.jpg)
1st April 2020 - run/walk session
Summary: 3.7km. See first image. 30 minute alternating run/walk.
stats and details
(https://i.imgur.com/3CAvWNb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fE6wGkC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Oj3Do5P.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jHTvF4p.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fE6wGkC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Oj3Do5P.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jHTvF4p.jpg)
2nd April 2020 - slow session
(https://i.imgur.com/AgYtIv3.jpg)
5th April 2020 - run/walk session
Summary: 5km run/walk effort with running points at sub 6 minute pace. High headwinds.
stats and details
(https://i.imgur.com/iTw7CoS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/g8d8eDS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QXIXkN2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/g8d8eDS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QXIXkN2.jpg)
6th April 2020 - strength session
(https://i.imgur.com/bYUHb30.jpg)
7th April 2020 - reps session
Summary: 5.22km (including warmup and cooldown) intensity session. Reps of 8 x 1 minute efforts with one minute walking recovery.
stats and details
(https://i.imgur.com/PAqXwRX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8KDe13y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hpXlrnd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fmx5Abq.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8KDe13y.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hpXlrnd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fmx5Abq.jpg)
8th April 2020 - strength session
(https://i.imgur.com/nFiiVyj.jpg)
9th April 2020 - reps session
Summary: 4.6km (including warmup and cooldown) intensity session. 2 x 5 minute efforts. Cut short by sickness.
stats and details
(https://i.imgur.com/uV86wzA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/na89hEu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TYwu1VU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gJAbnlV.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/na89hEu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TYwu1VU.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gJAbnlV.jpg)
11th April 2020 - 5km race
Summary: 6.6kms (including warmup and cooldown). Race effort timed to 31.39 for 5kms.
stats and details
(https://i.imgur.com/JAHrJVe.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8VWDwAv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OTKYzDD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8VWDwAv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OTKYzDD.jpg)
12th April 2020 - easy long session
Summary: 6km slow run completed at 43:18. 7:13/km average.
stats and details
(https://imgur.com/yJt11Op.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/v5BZUGL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zBJHfiI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tMlg0S2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/v5BZUGL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zBJHfiI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tMlg0S2.jpg)
13th April 2020 - strength session
(https://i.imgur.com/EC5P3Xu.jpg)
Today I was meant to do a rep session of 1 minute on/1 minute off, as I did last Tuesday. However, I didn't sleep last night and have been sick with a horrid headache all day and so am changing the rep session to tomorrow, where I would have done another strength session. Might do both if I'm feeling well.
The rest of my week is as follows:
Thursday - 3 x 5 minute efforts with 1-2 minute rest walk/shuffle in between
Friday - rest
Saturday - 2 x 10 minute efforts at 6:30 pace with 2 minute rest in between
Sunday - 40-45 minute easy run.
That's it! I should update my food journal too; I haven't been eating as much as I should and feel as if I've lost even more weight. This entry took me two days to write so I hope at least someone decides my analytics are a good time sink!!!!
Thanks, AN. I'll update on Sunday. Every Sunday and Wednesday from now on, if I can. :)
Post by: Poet on July 18, 2020, 05:37:01 pm
It's been a long recovery process (my last post was in April, oh no) but I'm back at it, this time on a lot more meds :)) no really I had another increase today and I'm higghhh suss my new eyebrow slitttt
Running hasn't been much of a part of my life for about 6 weeks now. I developed a sore right knee that was exacerbated when I ran, so have spent the last 6 weeks or so in physiotherapy for palettofemoral pain syndrome and ITB friction. For a month I was able to meet Erutepa and cycle together, but now in the new lockdown I've been unable to travel cross-city for exercise. The good news is that after rest and strength and conditioning work with the physio, I should be back to running twice a week next week!! No intensity sessions, only short technical work at the moment. But it's going to help me get back on that horse in time for Athletics Victoria comps next year, which - just by the way - I'm planning on going into as a registered athlete. Woohoo!
I've decided I don't need to go too far in depth in this blog so I'm going to make it easier for myself and cut the analytics. Here's the plan for the week ahead:
Sunday: S&C work
Monday: Physio appointment, refining running plan
Tuesday: Walk/jog (?)
Wednesday: Pilates
Thursday: Run (?)
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Rest (?)
That's all folks, I'll do my best to get back to this within a reasonable time-frame and not the gestation period of a leopard (92-95 days). Stay safe, wear a mask, eat pie if you want to. <3
Post by: Owlbird83 on July 18, 2020, 06:01:52 pm
AHH that's exciting about entering the athletic comps!!
Pie 😍
Good luck with this week's exercise! 💙
Post by: Poet on July 30, 2020, 03:30:53 pm
The last week or so, I was a little lazy. I didn't do my full S&C sessions like I should've so I'll definitely be on that till the next update. On Tuesday, I went on my first proper run in quite a while! It was a gentle session and I went less than 3kms, but it was very exciting to be able to do it without any pain. And yesterday I did Pilates and felt a bit more in control of my body and balance.
Today after class (cuz I'm a STUDENT again 0w0) I'll be doing another walk/jog around the footy oval with some strides. Technical work is boring but it's still getting me back outdoors and into real life rather than being stuck in the weird bubble that is self-isolation. And the last few days have been beautiful and sunny!
What I'll be doing for the next week:
Thursday: Run 400m/walk 100m with strides x 6
Friday: Rest
Saturday: S&C
Sunday: Rest or run/walk if you feel like it
Monday: S&C
Tuesday: Run
Wednesday: Pilates
Stay sexy, kids, and remember that you CAN teach an old dog new tricks - it just takes time and patience.
Post by: Poet on August 06, 2020, 04:21:40 pm
So uh RIP my schedule for this week; bad mental health + waiting 5 days for unexpected COVID test results = not much exercise. I did go to Pilates yesterday (it's clinical pilates, so it's like a doctor's appointment and exempt under Stage 4 restrictions) and I did do my strength and conditioning sesh on Tuesday, but other than that I was locked up at home from Friday afternoon being a sad potato. Now that I'm negative, however, I'll be running a few strides before trying for a couple 1km ((gentle!!)) efforts tonight. Still focusing on widening and shortening my stride so I don't overstep and re-injure myself.
Here's our weekly schedule:
Thursday: 6 x strides then 1km effort at 7:00 pace, rest for 30sec, repeat.
Friday: Rest
Saturday: S&C
Sunday: Run/walk optional
Monday: S&C
Tuesday: Run (3km continuous at 7:00-7:30 pace if feeling good)
Wednesday: Pilates
Let's see if I can stick to it this time; I need a live-in coach to yell at me :((
Love all you beans and legumes <3
Post by: Poet on August 12, 2020, 06:08:56 pm
Thursday: 10 x 1min reps, 1 min rest with small w/u and c/d
Friday: Rest
Saturday/Sunday: 30-45 min gentle run
Monday: ?
Tuesday: ?
Wednesday: Pilates
That's all! I wonder what's for dinner?
Post by: Poet on August 17, 2020, 01:46:39 pm
I'm back with an updated weekly schedule! My confession from last week's regime is the absence of a run on Saturday or Sunday. On Saturday, I put it off till Sunday, and then on Sunday I lost my running watch and in the process of looking for it literally moved my entire room till realising that it was under my pillow the whole time. And by move my entire room, I mean it. Woke up this morning in a new room! Interesting.
Alright, my schedule for this week is:
Monday: S&C
Tuesday: 4x2min, 4x1min w/ 1min walk
Wednesday: Pilates
Thursday: 10x1min w/ 1min shuffle/walk
Friday: rest
Saturday/Sunday: 30-45min gentle run/walk
So today it looks like I'll be doing some extra ab work because I've just started getting my definition back (after a brief period of rehab flab) and it feels good to have a solid core. Still a big focus on the use of hips and glutes and keeping good control through the knee. It was a little bit sore last night, I'd imagine because I was carrying heavy furniture around for about 6 hours. But I'll feel it out.
Hope you're all doing well - get outside for a walk, do some jumping jacks, dance around the room to your favourite upbeat song. Shoulders back, stretch, breathe.
Post by: Poet on September 14, 2020, 09:02:30 pm
HELLO I HAVE SOME NEWS
I've been training an average of twice per week whilst juggling school work, procrastination, chronic nausea, and a poop-tonne of Nothing Else. Obviously my aim is 3 runs per week but 2 has been pretty good considering my terribly ill state the past month.
BUT THAT'S BESIDES THE POINT
THE POINT IS
I did a 5km time trial on Saturday and finished it in 30:59 - that's 44 seconds faster than my April trial - after literal months of not running due to injury. I'm super happy with that time and very surprised I got there considering my lack of practice. My fastest ever 5km is a little over 2 minutes quicker and I never expected to be this close. Better thank my physio for keeping me in shape!!
I've also noticed the following changes:
~ my running cadence has increased to average just below 170bpm, which indicates an improvement in my over-striding issue
~ My steps are 1000 times more even, which displays a distinct increase in hip and ankle strength
~ My knees don't hurt at all anymore, even after a tough effort
~ My cardiovascular fitness is my limiting factor now rather than my leg strength.
It feels really good to get back in to it, especially since my mental health has been in a bit of a pit lately. Running helps. (Thanks endorphins). This week is full of assessment work for my course but I'll give myself decent breaks for my plan:
Monday (today): Rest (did some S&C yesterday)
Tuesday: 4 x 2min run/2 min walk rests, 4 x 1min run/1min walk rests
Wednesday: Pilates
Thursday: 8 x 1min run w/ 1min walk/shuffle rests
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 50-60min cruise, include walks
Sunday: get out for a walk, do some stretching
That's it for this time - a challenge for the reader: let's get groovy and do some yoga work this week howboutdat
Post by: The Cat In The Hat on September 14, 2020, 09:04:41 pm
:D ;D Great running! :D
Post by: Bri MT on September 15, 2020, 09:08:41 am
Good job! I would give you a thumbs-up emoji but there isn't one on AN as far as I know :P
:D ;D Great running! :D
type "emoji106" in [ ]Edit: yeah, like that :)
Post by: The Cat In The Hat on September 15, 2020, 09:15:02 am
Like that?
Post by: Poet on September 20, 2020, 08:23:15 pm
I hope you've been well today and gotten up to stretch and maaayybe did some yoga like I challenged? I did a couple sessions during the week and stretching out hurts a little but it's good for a tight-muscled idiot like me.
A review of the last week:
I wouldn't say this week was 100% - because it wasn't - but it was a decent week. I did every session in my plan which is neato (especially my BIG BOI SATURDAY EFFORT BECAUSE I WAS SICK AS A DOG) and I'm hoping I can keep up my streak this week! Oh, I did shorten my Tuesday session to 3x both, but I still got out and did it and that's what matters.
I'm feeling pretty sick tonight so let's hope I can sleep it off. So. A plan.
Monday: S&C session, stretching
Tuesday: 8-10 x 2min run w/ 1min walk/shuffle
Wednesday: Pilates
Thursday: 10-12 x 1min run w/ 1min walk/shuffle
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 50-60min cruise, include walks
Sunday: get out for a walk, do some stretching
And that's it - see you on next week's episode :)) <3
Post by: Poet on October 01, 2020, 02:37:17 pm
Jk I didn't exactly break my back, but I did pop a joint connecting my rib to my vertebrae (a costovertebral joint) so after being super sick all of last week and not going for a single run, I've spent this week eating pain meds and trying not to do it again because it HURT and I am so tired of being IN PAIN and not able to do what I WANT with MY LIFE
Anywaaayyyyssss so just saying I'll probably be out of action till at least next week because I can't flipping move and my back is taped so uh yep hope ur well bye
Post by: The Cat In The Hat on October 01, 2020, 02:40:43 pm
Soooo the tight-muscled idiot is back with some news. While folding laundry, I broke my back.Oh no! I hope you get better soon. :(
Jk I didn't exactly break my back, but I did pop a joint connecting my rib to my vertebrae (a costovertebral joint) so after being super sick all of last week and not going for a single run, I've spent this week eating pain meds and trying not to do it again because it HURT and I am so tired of being IN PAIN and not able to do what I WANT with MY LIFE
Anywaaayyyyssss so just saying I'll probably be out of action till at least next week because I can't flipping move and my back is taped so uh yep hope ur well bye
Post by: Poet on October 07, 2020, 01:53:28 pm
Oh no! I hope you get better soon. :(Your hope worked! Thank you! <3
Thanks to the care of my amazing physio and my uncanny ability to imitate a potato for days on end, my back is almost completely better and I got back to running yesterday! Did a 45 minute walk/jog session around my area in the rain and it actually felt great. I've been feeling so messy and broken and the run was a little bit of a release. Crying in the rain means nobody notices the tears, right?
Today I was meant to have a Pilates session but my physio and I weren't sure how my back would hold up so forgot to reschedule. I'll be doing some at-home exercises instead and make sure I do some proper stretching. One of the side effects of my increased anxiety is shakiness so some exercises are harder to do because I can't hold myself properly.
As for the rest of the week:
Thursday: 8-10 x 1min w/ 2min shuffle/walk
Friday: Glute workout 2x10min
Saturday/Sunday: 45 min run w/ walks
I'm really keen to get back to squad training in the next 6-8 weeks as restrictions ease. It'll make it a lot easier to get outside and push myself, and I'll be able to run with a few others for the first time since July. Granted, it won't be the same - but it'll be something more to live for, and honestly I need all the motivation I can get right now.
Post by: Poet on October 12, 2020, 11:59:08 am
Last week (Including yesterday) was actually a great running week for me. My illness was somewhat reduced and my sore spots gave me a break. I managed to complete every session and overall did about 16.6kms. In the next two weeks let's hope I can crack 20kms again! It feels like forever since I've had a consistent schedule. I'm well overdue for a sense of achievement.
Today is a workout day. I'll make sure to do plenty of stretching along with the exercises as my right hip flexor has decided it's sore today and I need to appease it. The rest of the week is a little bit up in the air as it looks like I'll be staying at a recovery home for 10-14 days and I'm not entirely sure if I'll be confident enough to get out and run - but I'll pop in the plan anyway.
Monday: S&C session, stretching and rolling
Tuesday: 5x2min w/ 1min shuffle/walk, 5x30s w/ 90s rest. (30 second efforts are fast-paced sprints. Rest means standing rest rather than walking. It's times like these I wish I could do a track session!)
Wednesday: Clinical pilates/circuit training
Thursday: 8-10x1min w/ 2min shuffle/walk
Friday: Rest
Saturday/Sunday: Easy 40-45min, include walks
Really hoping to pick up the pace and work on my form, endurance and SPEED before competitions return in November! I've never competed before (outside of school sports because it was mandatory) and the butterflies in my stomach just thinking about it are
~r e a l~ but it's a huge goal to work towards and I'm going to do it no matter what.
Hope you're all doing okay - we'll get through this year just like every other.
Post by: sweetiepi on October 12, 2020, 09:08:15 pm
Post by: Poet on November 08, 2020, 02:55:13 pm
I got myself hospitalised AGAIN and didn't run for like 2 weeks.
fjndfjvnvjcnsdk
Ngl I'm an extremely self-critical person, and I've been making it even more difficult for myself to get out and run by placing so much pressure on myself. Telling myself things like 'I won't enjoy it', or fearing that I'll injure myself again and end up back at square one. As someone who's been at square one more than enough times already this year, it feels kind of useless to even try after a while. But I'm here again. Discharging from hospital tomorrow. And I've gotten back up.
My coach has still been placing sessions on a weekly schedule despite my commitment issues. So good thing is, when I decide to pick it back up there's always a plan waiting for me. And an understanding expert behind it to tell me just how bad I am at running! (jokes, he's lovely.)
This week:
Monday: S&C with stretching
Tuesday: 5 x 2min w/ 1min rest, 5 x 1min w/ 90s rest
Wednesday: Pilates @ 1pm
Thursday: 8-10 x 1min w/ 2min shuffle/walk
Friday: rest day
Saturday/Sunday: long run and S&C
Last week, Friday was my first run back - I did a 35 minute run/walk at a *very* gentle pace just to feel it out. Yesterday (Saturday) I accompanied Erutepa on his cruisey weekend run by cycling alongside and looking very professional in matching squad gear. Today (Sunday) I managed to go 7.2 kms in 49 minutes and was very happy that my first planned session back went so well! After that though, my body decided to go into a state of shock and I was shivering for a good hour. Let's hope that's not a sign of impending illness. The first Athletics Victoria race back is in a week, and although I'm not competing in this round I may enter the week after... A goal to work towards!!! :))
Anyway I'm off to help some nerds build me a gaming PC from scratch so I can get abused in gamer voice chats - my schedule hasn't been sent yet so I'll most likely edit in an updated plan. Love y'all <3
Post by: Poet on November 16, 2020, 05:47:42 pm
I did alright last week! 17.6kms down. Tried all my sessions and felt okay! My Thursday session was a bust after getting absolutely WRECKED by a new Pilates instructor the day before, but I picked it back up on Saturday and managed a solid 50 minutes. I assessed my gait and I've definitely improved, but it looks like my right foot still flicks out a bit which would explain my tight calf muscle. So I'll be working on that till it's all good!
My body has been nice to me too, and I haven't been overly nauseous or dizzy for a while. I've also been able to eat more and I feel like I've gained at least a little bit of weight since I last checked - let's hope I can get to a healthy weight soon!
Anyway, here's what's on -
Monday: S&C
Tuesday: 4 x 3min w/ 1min shuffle/walk, 5 x 1min w/ 1min walk
Wednesday: Pilates @ 11am
Thursday: 10 x 1min w/ 2min shuffle/walk
Friday: Rest day
Saturday: 50-60min run w/ walks OR 3.2km time trial depending on where I am
Sunday: Stretching, rolling, etc.
Alrighty, that's all - and yes, I'm typing this up on my new PC :))
Post by: The Cat In The Hat on November 16, 2020, 05:57:25 pm
uPDATE uPdAtEGood job! :) :D
I did alright last week! 17.6kms down. Tried all my sessions and felt okay! My Thursday session was a bust after getting absolutely WRECKED by a new Pilates instructor the day before, but I picked it back up on Saturday and managed a solid 50 minutes. I assessed my gait and I've definitely improved, but it looks like my right foot still flicks out a bit which would explain my tight calf muscle. So I'll be working on that till it's all good!
My body has been nice to me too, and I haven't been overly nauseous or dizzy for a while. I've also been able to eat more and I feel like I've gained at least a little bit of weight since I last checked - let's hope I can get to a healthy weight soon!
Anyway, here's what's on -
Monday: S&C
Tuesday: 4 x 3min w/ 1min shuffle/walk, 5 x 1min w/ 1min walk
Wednesday: Pilates @ 11am
Thursday: 10 x 1min w/ 2min shuffle/walk
Friday: Rest day
Saturday: 50-60min run w/ walks OR 3.2km time trial depending on where I am
Sunday: Stretching, rolling, etc.
Alrighty, that's all - and yes, I'm typing this up on my new PC :))
Post by: Poet on November 23, 2020, 08:58:40 pm
Good job! :) :Dty!!
Hiiii it's Monday again really fast idk how there's suddenly like 3 days in a week but there you go
Okay I've been trying to do this all day but keep crying and closing the tab like an idiot so let's see if we can SPEEDRUN this shit
Last week went well, once again reaching a total of 17.6kms - weird how exact that is considering my schedule change up! My midweek sessions were super rough - Tuesday was absolute murder because of the final sprint efforts, then Thursday (which was, by the way, my first time back at the track since MARCH) was super hot, dry and windy and I was pretty sick so I only did 8 out of the 10 reps. Then on Saturday, I went to Princes Park with Erutepa and did my first 3km time trial!! My average pace was around 5:40/km which is decent, and a good pace considering my fitness level. My perfectionist-side would like consistent 5:30s but hey, something to work towards. Everyone in the squad is faster than me and it can be a little dejecting. But still nice to be part of something, and hold goals.
So this week:
Monday: S & C
Tuesday: 8x2min w/ 1min shuffle/walk, 5x1min w/ 1min walk rest
Wednesday: Pilates @ 10 or 11AM w/ Ben
Thursday (Track): 6 x 300m w/ 90sec rest
Friday: Rest
Saturday/Sunday: 50-60min cruisey run
Aaand think that's it? Hot dang we did it, fellas. This week's schedule is starting to really pick up the pace and I'm excited to see my progress. See you in a few days :))
Post by: Poet on November 27, 2020, 12:43:23 pm
NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME
I'm competing for the first time on Sunday!!! Round 1 of AVSL is offering hour slots to athletes who want to participate in track races of 60m or 600m, and field comps of long jump and shot put (I think?). Anyway, I'm gonna be racing in a 600m that afternoon and I'm insanely excited and nervous. If there's any photos I'll post them with my Sunday update. Eeeeeee!! Wish me luck!!!
Post by: katie,rinos on November 27, 2020, 02:24:43 pm
Post by: Sine on November 27, 2020, 03:17:22 pm
good luck, hope you do really well and have fun!NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME
I'm competing for the first time on Sunday!!! Round 1 of AVSL is offering hour slots to athletes who want to participate in track races of 60m or 600m, and field comps of long jump and shot put (I think?). Anyway, I'm gonna be racing in a 600m that afternoon and I'm insanely excited and nervous. If there's any photos I'll post them with my Sunday update. Eeeeeee!! Wish me luck!!!
Post by: K888 on November 27, 2020, 03:37:20 pm
good luck Poet!! 60m sounds like my sort of distance hahaNEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME NEWS TIME
I'm competing for the first time on Sunday!!! Round 1 of AVSL is offering hour slots to athletes who want to participate in track races of 60m or 600m, and field comps of long jump and shot put (I think?). Anyway, I'm gonna be racing in a 600m that afternoon and I'm insanely excited and nervous. If there's any photos I'll post them with my Sunday update. Eeeeeee!! Wish me luck!!!
Post by: Poet on November 29, 2020, 07:57:48 pm
Good luck! Hope it goes well!! :DThank you! And congrats on the green Ps! Welcome to the club ;)
good luck, hope you do really well and have fun!Ty, it was fun!! <3
good luck Poet!! 60m sounds like my sort of distance hahaOoft mood, 60m is such a teeny baby race, so little and cute uwu - I envy sprinters like nothing else
HI IT IS ME
THE ANXIETY OF TODAY WAS WILD SO I NEEDED A NAP BEFORE UPDATING SORRY
BUT
I did it!!!!!!!! I got there on time and got my racing numbers and stood on the track and ran like... a drunk sloth.
Nah jokes, I ran beyond any time I'd have imagined for myself and absolutely smashed my estimate of 3 minutes or so. My time was 2:10 for the 600m and I am trying to be very proud of myself for it.
I didn't know how heats worked and because of COVID there wasn't an official time-based setup, so when they called out people for heat 3 I was coerced into racing. I must look fitter than I am though, because I came dead last by about 100m and everyone else got times of sub-2 minutes. ::)
Turns out heats are raced from fastest to slowest, and so people in heat 4 were probably much closer to my level of competition. But that's something to learn for next time!
But the important thing here is that I did it. I did the biggest thing I've done in years. I cried, spent days before battling nausea and nightmares and my stupid brain. But I got up, drove out, warmed up, went through the gates, put on my racing numbers, and lined up. Because I am capable no matter what my mind tells me.
My next comp will likely be run in 2 weeks' time as this weekend I'll be in NSW. But I'll keep up the training and hopefully beat my time soon!!
ALSO MY COACH SAID HE'S PROUD OF ME AND SAID HE THINKS I CAN RUN AN 800M AT SUB 2:50 SOON AAAAAA OKAY BYE
oh and I said if there were photos I'd share, there weren't any from track but I have a bad one from Princes Park lol sus the Nike rep
(https://i.imgur.com/9KrO9ug.png)
Post by: Owlbird83 on November 29, 2020, 08:08:21 pm
Post by: Erutepa on November 29, 2020, 08:18:29 pm
Awesome job running today!!!!
My next comp will likely be run in 2 weeks' time as this weekend I'll be in NSW. But I'll keep up the training and hopefully beat my time soon!!
ALSO MY COACH SAID HE'S PROUD OF ME AND SAID HE THINKS I CAN RUN AN 800M AT SUB 2:50 SOON AAAAAA OKAY BYE
hopefully you have gained some wisdom and won't stress as much before the next competition!
Looking forward to seeing how you perform in a couple weeks
Post by: sweetiepi on November 29, 2020, 08:26:05 pm
Thank you! And congrats on the green Ps! Welcome to the club ;)You did it!!! <3 I'm so proud (I was going to say that I feel like a proud mum, but that's a) weird and b) I'm not that old, am I? ahaha)
Ty, it was fun!! <3
Ooft mood, 60m is such a teeny baby race, so little and cute uwu - I envy sprinters like nothing else
HI IT IS ME
THE ANXIETY OF TODAY WAS WILD SO I NEEDED A NAP BEFORE UPDATING SORRY
BUT
I did it!!!!!!!! I got there on time and got my racing numbers and stood on the track and ran like... a drunk sloth.
Nah jokes, I ran beyond any time I'd have imagined for myself and absolutely smashed my estimate of 3 minutes or so. My time was 2:10 for the 600m and I am trying to be very proud of myself for it.oh and I said if there were photos I'd share, there weren't any from track but I have a bad one from Princes Park lol sus the Nike rep(https://i.imgur.com/9KrO9ug.png)
(Also Princes Park is nice for running around, given it's right across from uni ahaha)
Post by: The Cat In The Hat on November 29, 2020, 08:40:21 pm
Post by: Poet on December 08, 2020, 12:06:33 pm
Thank you all for the congratulations!! It's been a little over a week and I'm feeling good (physically). Mentally, I'm struggling a bit with just wanting to hide away. But the weather this week has been good for running in a tee and leggings rather than something I'd be more self-conscious in which is good!
I ran a total of 14.6kms last week which seems like less but it's because one was a race and Sunday was a shorter 5km rather than 6-8 because I was exhausted from Saturday driving 11 hours. This week I decided not to compete as the available race is a 1500m (and I'm not at that level yet) so my distance will increase again.
This week we got:
Monday: S&C (done)
Tuesday: 5 x 400m w/ 90s rest, 3 x 100m w/ walk back rest
Wednesday: Pilates
Thursday: 3x(4x200m) - 1st set off 45s, 2nd off 75s, 3rd off 2min - 4min break between sets
Friday: physio reassessment
Saturday: 45-50min run & cold water therapy
Sunday: rest
So now, adios amigos :D
Post by: Bri MT on December 08, 2020, 12:12:23 pm
Post by: sweetiepi on December 08, 2020, 02:30:26 pm
Hello my dear dumplingsYou've got this, Poet <3
Thank you all for the congratulations!! It's been a little over a week and I'm feeling good (physically). Mentally, I'm struggling a bit with just wanting to hide away. But the weather this week has been good for running in a tee and leggings rather than something I'd be more self-conscious in which is good!
I ran a total of 14.6kms last week which seems like less but it's because one was a race and Sunday was a shorter 5km rather than 6-8 because I was exhausted from Saturday driving 11 hours. This week I decided not to compete as the available race is a 1500m (and I'm not at that level yet) so my distance will increase again.
This week we got:
Monday: S&C (done)
Tuesday: 5 x 400m w/ 90s rest, 3 x 100m w/ walk back rest
Wednesday: Pilates
Thursday: 3x(4x200m) - 1st set off 45s, 2nd off 75s, 3rd off 2min - 4min break between sets
Friday: physio reassessment
Saturday: 45-50min run & cold water therapy
Sunday: rest
So now, adios amigos :D
Post by: Poet on December 16, 2020, 01:54:53 pm
You've got this, Poet <3BUT I DON'T GOT THIS
*queue pterodactyl screeching*
Last week I managed ten (10) stupid baby kilometres of running. I didn't do my Thursday session (napped in the car instead because I felt dizzy and sick and awful) and reduced my weekend session. I'm feeling a little better this week so managed to get through yesterday's session - hopefully this week my body is in a nice physical state.
So far I've completed Monday as my rest day and Tuesday's run of 5x400m and 3x100m. It was actually such good weather at the track yesterday and the best thing is that the girl who talks to me at track has moved back to Victoria after finishing uni in Adelaide!! So I have a friend and that will definitely help me be less anxious about everything.
My cat is sitting on my mousepad with her butt on my keyboard so this has been interesting to type out - anyway today is Wednesday and I'm going to do my stretching routine after shopping. As for the rest of the week:
Thursday: 1km race
Friday: pilates/gym work class
Saturday: 45-50 min gentle run
Sunday: holidaY TIME BECAUSE I'M GOING ON HOLIDAYS
That's all, I'll see you soon my dears <3
Post by: Poet on December 28, 2020, 03:37:40 pm
That means it's time for an annual running summary!
I started getting into running in late January, but only began recording things properly in mid-March when I got my first running watch. Since March 15th, I have run a total of 529kms in 59 hours.
💫 2 months of this time was spent hospitalised.
💫 I've competed once in AVSL competition.
💫 My best time for a 5km is 28.24.
💫 My fastest recorded 1km is 4.20.
💫 My longest run is 8.2kms.
And honestly, I think that's a pretty damn good effort.
We've been sick, isolated, unmotivated, limited; you name it. 529kms may not be too much (in comparison with other competitive athletes eek), but it's still 529kms more than I would have done without the encouragement and support I got from you guys. So thank you. <3
This last week has been a quiet one for me in the years' conclusion due to illness. I'll pick it up again this week starting with my 40min workout today as I woke up considerably less nauseous. It will be my first week with my new fancy running watch - a Garmin Forerunner 245 Music!!! (Very swish, thanks Erutepa!!) As for the rest of the week, here's what's in store:
Tuesday: 4 x 800m w/ 90s rest
Wednesday: Workout
Thursday: 30-40min easy run
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Light run, drills, stride-throughs
Sunday: 30-40min
I may switch around my Friday and Saturday as my holidays with Erutepa's fam begin on the 2nd. WHOOP WHOOP
My goals for 2021 are a bit more ambitious and I'm trying to stay consistent. In the next 368 days or so, I hope to:
✨ Run 1,000kms in a year (:0)
✨ Compete 10 times in Track and X-Country
✨ Run 10kms in one session
✨ Run 5kms in 25 minutes or less (5min per km pace)
✨ Buy spikes and new runners
✨ (Bonus) Get a defined 6-pack and own it :D
Woo, making New Years' Resolutions early! But you know what - goals are dynamic and progressive and should be made year-round. Hopefully this journal provides motivation to you, dear reader, as well as myself. Sending lots of sweat-covered love your way this holiday season. Get plenty of sleep, hydrate, and remember that you're precious.
Post by: Poet on January 07, 2021, 10:03:08 am
It's been a busy week living in the mountains. Starting off 2021 strong!
Unfortunately I came down with a cold (got tested dw it's def not COVID) early in the week and spent a few days I would have hoped to be smashing out kms in sitting on the bathroom floor with severe nausea. I'm improving now though, and will be running a session today on the flattest bit of road I can find. Slow and steady wins the race!
To recap what I've done since my last update:
Last week, I was meant to do an easy 30-40 minute Thursday up at the You Yang ranges with my running squad. Turns out my coach tricked me into running one of the hardest trails up and then 3.2kms down. I ended up running over 8kms with three other women around my age and managed to keep up!! Absolutely wrecked myself but it's an effort I'm still unbelievably proud of.
Saturday was a 15 minute jog with some strides and drills, which I completed as my first run of the new year in preparation for Sunday's longer effort. Unfortunately Sunday was the first day I came down ill and I wasn't able to run.
This Tuesday we went up to Falls Creek and ran along the high plains for a 8x2min session with 60sec rest walks. With warmup and cooldown I ran about 7kms.
Yesterday I did my 30min workout with plenty of stretches and took a hot bath to try and clear up more congestion so I could run my 10x1min session better today. After a restful night in an actual bed (after spending 4 days sleeping on the floor) I think I should be able to complete today's session okay.
As for the weekend, we're going home on Saturday for a 30-40min run and a Sunday light run with drills and strides. Will try to remember to update on Monday!
Love y'all and am keen for the upcoming online meetup!! 🥰
Post by: Poet on February 01, 2021, 04:53:47 pm
This journal is beginning to feel like a running joke. Well... I guess life feels like that, and running is part of my life.
My mental state has hit a trough again (and a pretty deep one, too.) I'm up and down, but mostly down, and have been finding it very difficult to reach out, get out, and work out. Thankfully, I have a few people who really care for me and want to do things together. And, if I try to not do things, I'll get remorselessly pestered till I do.
One of those things is running.
So, in the past 3 weeks, I haven't actually done a single session by myself. I've been getting out of the house purely at the behest of others. I want that to change, but it's going to take some time. I know that. For now, I'm just grateful for the incessant love I'm given. It really is a privilege to have people willing to drag you by your hair out of bed to look after yourself. :P
Okay, down to business -
I've been struggling with a bit of a plateau in running since early January, so fitness has been maintained but not improved. In the 4 weeks since my last update I broke the weekly goal of 20km zero (0) times. Silly noodle. Running an average of 5-7kms per session and increasing a bit of speed but not distance (my goal is distance because, ya know, I want to be a middle-distance runner) while my boyfriend runs 70km per week. Feels B A D, MY GUY.
Anywayyyyy today I ran what was meant to be my weekend session of 35 minutes (I was busy wallowing in self-hatred over the actual weekend) and I’ll be at the track for both tomorrow and Thursday. On Saturday I’ve signed up to compete again – this time in an 800m AND a 3000m!! I’ve never run a track race longer than 1000m (especially an official one!) so this is going to be wild. Granted, I’ll be going slow, but aaa anxiety has been super amplified lately so it’ll be a challenge to get out there and finish.
Let’s lay out the week now:
Tuesday: 3x600m w/90s R then 4x300m w/90s R
Wednesday: Stretch/workout
Thursday: 10x200m w/60-90s R
Friday: Rest
Saturday: AVSL 800m, 3000m
Sunday: Rest/walk
See you later. I’ll let you know how Saturday pans out. 😊
Post by: Poet on February 28, 2021, 09:11:28 pm
Super anxious lately so v short update :)
Results for 800 and 3000 comps on Saturday 06/02:
800m estimated race time - 3:15.
Result - 3:11.80
3000m estimated race time - 20:00.
Result - 15:49.03
Parkrun is back (5km social runs) and I ran the Altona Parkrun yesterday at 26:21 to smash my old PB of 28:48. Goal is now to reach sub 25min for a 5km race.
I also demolished my 20km/week goal this week, tallying up 26.2kms of recorded running in 7 days.
Breathing through these next few weeks as I fight with my brain. Running is a great outlet. Love you guys <3
Post by: Poet on March 21, 2021, 04:53:23 pm
Track season is drawing to a close. Life goes by so quickly it's actually insane. Yesterday was Round 10 of AVSL, so of course I had to compete! My body hasn't been nice to me at all for the past few weeks and my training was reduced to the point where I'd run a total of 9kms in 7 days. Which is still getting out and running, but it's not my aim. I am just working on being as consistent as I can be with my running routine despite the constant illness. (This week I've done 14kms. Ugh. :(( )
Yesterday was gorgeous (a little humid but what can you do) and almost perfect for a run. I had spent the morning battling some pretty bad nausea and hadn't slept well in days because my nights consisted of dry-wretching over the toilet bowl. So I did a tiny warmup of 1.65kms including strides (my aim was 2-2.5kms) and went into the race feeling frustrated and like I wouldn't be able to perform. Thankfully, the magic of competition hit and I not only finished the 800m race, but managed a PB of 3:06.10 and came 3rd in my heat! As an 800m is 2 laps of the track, I tried to keep my pace fairly even the whole way through and managed split times of almost exactly 93 seconds per lap. Woohoo!
If I wasn't feeling so ill I would have tried to keep right behind the person in 2nd place, but they pulled away in the first lap and I decided I would blow out if I tried to catch them haha! I was overtaken by 2 other competitors but managed to make back my place on the last 200m. So despite everything (or in spite of everything?) I'm very happy with that. I'm not sure if my squad made it to the playoffs but if so I'll compete then. Otherwise I think my next race is the Geelong Marathon's 7km in April! Great preparation for the cross country season where I'm interested in running relay.
We'll see.
I think I'm gonna go for a walk/jog in the rain now. I'll see you guys later :D
Edit: Yay my squad made it Playoffs! Looks like I'll be competing in the 1500m at Albert Park, Victoria's Olympic training venue!! :o (No thanks to me, of course - my squad is full of state and national competitors so I'm a bit of a tag-along hehe. But it'll be an amazing experience!!)
Post by: lm21074 on March 21, 2021, 06:05:40 pm
You've inspired me to want to take up running!
Post by: sweetiepi on March 21, 2021, 10:28:33 pm
Sucks to feel a little ill though :)
Post by: Poet on March 28, 2021, 11:22:40 pm
Woohoo Poet - so proud of you! <3Love you <3
Sucks to feel a little ill though :)
Congratulations Poet!! 💪🔥Thanks! And oooh yes! It's not for everyone, especially heading into winter, but if you try it and find a sense of achievement I reckon it's a fantastic way to keep fit (and a good stress outlet!)
You've inspired me to want to take up running!
Hello! How are we this fine
It's been 7 days since I mentioned my 800m race. This week my body has been a lot nicer to me (I was only up 2/7 nights sick!) so I was able to complete a 22.67km week with fair ease. My longest session this week was 7.9kms and I'm super happy with that. Heading up to the 7km race I'm doing in 2 weeks, my track sessions are getting longer - so last week I ran my Tuesday as 3x600m, 4x400m efforts, and my Thursday as 10x1min on/off efforts (a little over 200m per effort).
This week is no exception:
Monday: Workout
Tuesday: 3x800m, 3x400m
Wednesday: Squash and bouldering(?)
Thursday: Halftime Fartlek
Friday: Rest
Saturday/Sunday: 45min easy run
All of my sessions bar the weekend long runs include a 2km warmup and cooldown - so 4 extra kms in total. If I can keep well (stupid body :( ), it looks like I'll be smashing consistent 20+km weeks till I go into recovery :))
BUT THAT'S NOT WHAT I WANT TO WRITE ABOUT
I'M HERE TO TELL YOU THAT I RACED MY DEBUT 1500M AND IT FELT AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!
pic of me on the final lap :DDDDD
(https://i.imgur.com/iWNmKzV.jpg)
Anyway, I should probably go to bed - school tomorrow and all, haha. Goodnight!
P.S. A note to anyone reading this and feeling like it's too late to start something: My 21st birthday was on the 20th. I started running at an open age. This was my first competition season, and I run in the slowest heats. It's not shameful to be out of place from the typical demographic. You'll find your place. And get better! <3
Post by: Joseph41 on March 29, 2021, 10:19:04 am
Post by: K888 on March 29, 2021, 12:48:30 pm
Post by: Poet on April 04, 2021, 08:39:38 pm
Really, really fantastic work. Well done - very happy for you!Thank you!! I hope your feet are holding up <3
Huge congrats!! You make running look so effortless and breezy in that pic <3Hahaha ty, I was actually feeling pretty good in that race - I'm always a little disappointed that my pictures all make it look like I'm not working hard, they always catch me mid-stride so it kind of looks like I'm just walking on air!
It has been another week, and so here I am again - how are we all?
I managed a total of 21.4kms this week. Would have liked a bit more, but I fell sick Thursday night and so took my long run today as an easy walk/jog recovery sesh. Don't worry, I tested negative to COVID! A cold can really mess with your overall sporting ability though so my 45 minutes were frustrating. But hey, I got it done. And I'm okay.
Tuesday's session I accidentally extended by an extra 400m rep and so totalled 7.3kms (with a w/u and c/d of 1.5kms each). Thursday I had my tough session for the week - the Halftime Fartlek. If you don't know what that is, it's a session where you run for a certain amount of minutes, and your rest is half that time, going down minute by minute. E.g. 5 minute effort, 2:30 rest. Then 4 minute effort, 2 rest. 3 minute effort, 1:30 rest. And so on till you reach 0.
My Halftime Fartlek was a count down from 5. It wasn't the fastest as I was just becoming symptomatic with my cold and my legs were HEAVYYYYY, but overall I ran 7.7kms in the session. I did manage to float (a slow jog recovery) every rest though and that worked in my favour distance-wise.
So how about this week? Well, my coach just sent through my plan so let's check it out!
Monday: Workout
Tuesday: 4x800m w/60s R, then 2x400m w/60s R
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: 35-45 min easy run with 1 min walk every 5 min
Friday: Rest
Saturday: REST (WITH EMPHASIS ON REST)
Sunday: 7km race day!!
I'm a bit unsure of how my body will deal with the 7km and whether or not my heavy 'oh noo pls I sick no run' legs will get back to their normal working order but I sure hope everything goes well. I don't think I'll update beforehand, so please wish me luck! It's gonna be my longest race so far. :))
Love y'all, please be kind to yourselves. <3
Post by: Poet on April 12, 2021, 10:06:38 pm
WARNING: Long update time -_-
Sorry for not updating yesterday - I found it hard to piece together coherent sentences lol
So - I deferred from my plan last week a) because I was sick on Tuesday and b) had an irritated ITB on Thursday. Friday and Saturday were then dedicated to rest, so I actually only ended up running 9kms for the entire week. Resting for so long turned in my favour though - as my longest race ever was on Sunday!
It's been a hot minute since I ran 7kms or more continuously (as opposed to a session where it's stop/start) so I was pretty certain I would have to walk at some point. Leading up to the day I was really nervous about my performance, so used my best coping strategy: denial. It was only when waking up at 4AM on Sunday, and leaving the house in complete darkness, that I allowed myself to think about actually racing. And you know what? It kind of worked!
I had to get up and leave super early in order to get some heavier food into myself (a banana) and leave in time to meet with Erutepa, who was running the half marathon. We left his house at 5:15AM and arrived at the site at around 6:10. It was bitterly cold and still extremely dark out. We saw him and another runner in the squad off at 7:15, before I "warmed up" (IT WAS TOO COLD TO WARM UP) for the 8AM 7km start. For the first 1.5kms I was very comfortable (but very cold) running at around 5:30 pace behind some other runners who started off at 5:20. They slowed down, however, so I overtook them and went into the 2nd km at 5:14 pace (which is the average pace for my 5km PB). I settled into a rhythm at 5:36 pace for kms 3 and 4, before starting to pick it up a little at 5kms. It was around here that I started really feeling the effects of every little incline, but I wasn't cold anymore and it was just a matter of holding it till the finish. A lot of other runners in my race had started off quick and were dropping away - it was a weird sort of reward to pass them. For my 6th km, I got a nice shallow downhill slope which helped tremendously with just getting back a little bit of breath and upping the pace to 5:16/km. The 7th and final km was along the river flat - and I could see the finish line marquee taunting me the whole way! In the last 200m or so I forced my heavy legs into a sprint and ended at 3:46/km pace.
I DID IT! I ran the whole way without stopping and not only ran 37:45 for the 7km, but within that ran a 27:47 5km which is my second best 5km time!!!
Erutepa finished just a couple of minutes before me, covering 21.1kms in 78 minutes. An amazing effort and one we celebrated with bubble tea, a Radox bath and cuddles!
In all honesty it probably isn't particularly impressive to run 37:45, especially considering the calibre of people I train with. But it's a personal achievement, and despite the deep ache in my legs and the rasp in my throat and the pain of actually doing it, it makes me happy.
Overall I was the 11th female to finish the 7km. 5th in my age group. And oh boy, am I keen to try this again next year and look back on how I progress! :))
This week I'm in recovery, so all of my runs are gentle efforts to not overwork my tired muscles. I'll check back in later.
Keep being cool, fellow beans <3
Post by: sweetiepi on April 12, 2021, 10:10:04 pm
So proud of you, Poet 💙
Post by: Poet on May 27, 2021, 01:20:12 pm
You know the drill - I forget to write, and then when I remember it feels awkward, and so it gets put off for over a month. But heck it I'm here with some time to kill so let's reflect:
I got the flu. :'(
That's about it. Not much running involved honestly. Just a week of vomiting up mucus at all hours. Then the recovery from that. It's been about 2-ish weeks(?) and I'm still feeling the after effects. But on Saturday I was asked to run for open women so I did an 8km cross country race. Not the smartest idea (I ran it in 48 minutes which is good for me but basically last in my age group) but it was fun and a beautiful day. Erutepa wasn't running but went the 4 hour round trip there and back to support me. And I achieved something I never thought I would, which is run one of the hardest XC courses. So there's a few positives!
This week (...and next week... it's already Thursday w h a t ) I am hoping to get back into consistent weeks of 20+ kms. A bit hard to think about with another snap lockdown on its way, but I can do plenty in an hour time slot for exercise. Maybe I'll be able to hit my goal of a 10km long run soon!!
The weather for the most part hasn't been particularly encouraging either. The combination of FREEZING COLD and WIND isn't my favourite. So along with not feeling well it's been a huge challenge to just get outside at all.
For the month of May I've run just over 32.5kms. Pretty pathetic, and certainly not living up to my extremely ambitious goal of 1000kms in a year. But hey. We learn, we grow, and we'll get there eventually. It just takes some time and dedication. And better health!
I need to remember that I'm doing this for me. No-one else. My body is doing what it can. My sickness can be frustrating but just because I can't quite reach one big goal doesn't mean I can't reach smaller ones.
Now, time to psych myself up for a rainy, cold session.
Thanks for following along, loves. See you for the next update. <3
Post by: Poet on June 02, 2021, 02:52:44 pm
BACK AGAIN
It me ʕ￫ᴥ￩ʔ
Happy Pride Month and International Running Day, my loves!! We gonna be fast AND gay with zero apologies, lesgoooo 🏳️🌈🏳️🌈🏳️🌈
I just had 2 coffees so I'm shaking but also feeling pretty productive despite having a sick night so thought I'd write.
The past 7 days I've run 17.3km, just picking it up and pulling myself to the 20km/week average I want. My body is still pretty out-of-whack so unfortunately my faster sessions have been pretty slow and left unfinished. Yesterday I was meant to run 5x4min on 1min off and managed 4 out of 5 reps but only a 1km warmup and no cooldown (besides walking home and stretching because I felt like crap). Really disappointed with my average pace and am hoping that my medical tests actually come back with something I can definitively follow up this time.
However, my aerobic fitness is fine! My legs are stronger than ever and could carry me a long way if it wasn't for the rest of my body giving out. On Sunday, I ran 9kms which is my longest run ever. Slow, of course, but steady at an average pace of 6:13/km. And I'm happy with that!!
That's all for now.
With another week of lockdown looming, let's all get the sun we can. Enjoy the little victories, and reach out if you're struggling. We got this.
Time for a workout!
Post by: Poet on June 16, 2021, 10:32:33 pm
The antibiotics I'm taking are absolutely ruining my ability to exercise haha. Before that I became quite unwell again so only did a few kms of running and a couple workouts.
I'm on this course for another 10 days or so, and as the symptoms improve I'll likely pick up running again. But for now, I'm just working on the recovery. Thanks for staying with me bebes! See you when I get back to normal. :))
Post by: Poet on July 07, 2021, 08:44:56 pm
I'm back to it, it seems! The past week has been consistent for me in all the ways I've been hoping for.
My first try back was June 21st - I did a small 2.6km run/walk and it didn't feel very nice. So I gave myself a break till I was done with my treatment before continuing.
After that, I was still very tired and my body was recovering so on the 28th, I managed a 3km. On the 29th, I managed my first session back of 10 x 200m with walk breaks, totalling about 4.7km with warmup. The 1st of July was my first full session back including a warmup and cooldown - so I did 8 x 300m and totalled 5.75km. I skipped Saturday but ran a 5km on Sunday in the freezing cold rain, totalling 13.5kms for the first week back which is not bad at all!
This week I've run 6.7kms and hope to get close to/reach my 20km for the week goal! (After tomorrow night at track, then Saturday and Sunday runs!) I know at this point that me still aiming for 1000kms for the year is pretty unreachable so I'm just going to focus on doing what I can so I can compete in the summer season in a higher bracket. :))
Some things I've really noticed since treatment:
My stride length has increased pretty significantly - I'm spending a lot less energy subconsciously protecting myself.
My heart rate is significantly lower - I used to reach the high 190s and peak a lot in sessions, but over my last few runs my average high HR is closer to 175, which is a LOT healthier.
My average speed is the highest this year, which echoes the previous points.
And, above all, I feel healthy. I can eat, drink, and exercise without feeling ill. Woohoo!!
Anyways, there's a nice pot of word vomit for you to sift through.
I hope you guys are having a good week. And if not, try taking some time to do something nice for yourself. Love ya. <3
Post by: Bri MT on July 07, 2021, 10:49:13 pm
Really happy for you
Post by: The Cat In The Hat on July 08, 2021, 09:05:03 pm
Hello there!! I hope we're doing well <3This is great! :)
I'm back to it, it seems! The past week has been consistent for me in all the ways I've been hoping for.
My first try back was June 21st - I did a small 2.6km run/walk and it didn't feel very nice. So I gave myself a break till I was done with my treatment before continuing.
After that, I was still very tired and my body was recovering so on the 28th, I managed a 3km. On the 29th, I managed my first session back of 10 x 200m with walk breaks, totalling about 4.7km with warmup. The 1st of July was my first full session back including a warmup and cooldown - so I did 8 x 300m and totalled 5.75km. I skipped Saturday but ran a 5km on Sunday in the freezing cold rain, totalling 13.5kms for the first week back which is not bad at all!
This week I've run 6.7kms and hope to get close to/reach my 20km for the week goal! (After tomorrow night at track, then Saturday and Sunday runs!) I know at this point that me still aiming for 1000kms for the year is pretty unreachable so I'm just going to focus on doing what I can so I can compete in the summer season in a higher bracket. :))
Some things I've really noticed since treatment:
My stride length has increased pretty significantly - I'm spending a lot less energy subconsciously protecting myself.
My heart rate is significantly lower - I used to reach the high 190s and peak a lot in sessions, but over my last few runs my average high HR is closer to 175, which is a LOT healthier.
My average speed is the highest this year, which echoes the previous points.
And, above all, I feel healthy. I can eat, drink, and exercise without feeling ill. Woohoo!!
Anyways, there's a nice pot of word vomit for you to sift through.
I hope you guys are having a good week. And if not, try taking some time to do something nice for yourself. Love ya. <3