tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post4042335866077680643..comments2024-03-19T02:13:10.045-05:00Comments on Out and About: I've been here beforeemmers712http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-84860955965927765022015-07-27T14:32:50.358-05:002015-07-27T14:32:50.358-05:00Great suggestions! I know that when I am spectatin...Great suggestions! I know that when I am spectating a race, I love it when the runners interact with me and feed off of my energy. It works in both directions! And I am so glad to hear that the suggestion of running the regular route in a different way has been good for you!!!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-6988880619157213512015-07-27T14:31:43.461-05:002015-07-27T14:31:43.461-05:00Here is hoping that after several weeks of very co...Here is hoping that after several weeks of very cold, rainy weather, that Chicago summertime is finally here to stay! Another trick that I've learned with running is to let go of any concerns over pace. When you run very slowly and comfortably, it's a lot more enjoyable and so much easier to get the miles in! It's great to run a race at a comfortable pace because you get the fun of the crowds without the pain of the exertion. Too bad race costs can add up so quickly, LOL.emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-51690753080643307112015-07-27T14:29:23.985-05:002015-07-27T14:29:23.985-05:00Ahhhh, waterskiing! Such a great way to change thi...Ahhhh, waterskiing! Such a great way to change things up! There is no better summer activity than being out in the water and enjoying the scenery while on skis!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-23837200193231334862015-06-13T18:32:45.181-05:002015-06-13T18:32:45.181-05:00Instead of completely ditching your running goals,...Instead of completely ditching your running goals, I think you could change them. Maybe aim to cheer for fellow runners or high five x number of kids along the way. Fun stuff like that. I also loved your suggestion from before to run a regular route in a different way. That was bank for me!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-49233504311865601922015-06-11T11:37:53.668-05:002015-06-11T11:37:53.668-05:00Do what you enjoy! It's summer and it's go...Do what you enjoy! It's summer and it's gonna be hot! Time to slow down, run less, and enjoy all the fun summer stuff in Chicago :) <br /><br />I am sorry to hear that your races feel like burdens. That is such a crummy feeling, and I have been there a few times. <br /><br />I "run blind" with my Garmin quite a bit - I leave it on my wrist and just switch the view to overall time so I don't see all the stats :) Then I can just run and enjoy. Kimhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03201592937889358953noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-74207065484950973682015-06-09T21:44:28.659-05:002015-06-09T21:44:28.659-05:00I think it's normal to get a little burned out...I think it's normal to get a little burned out. You are smart to realize it and take a step back. Doing something different helps. I plan to waterski this summer and let go of some of that running, even while training for a marathon. Mentally you've got to have a break too. HoHo Runshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01986964581984440945noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-44170188085602745132015-06-09T14:41:51.485-05:002015-06-09T14:41:51.485-05:00Thanks for the positivity! As good timing would ha...Thanks for the positivity! As good timing would have it, my very next race is one that benefits a local animal shelter. Lots of folks bring their pets out to cover the course with them! It's very heartwarming. I think this race is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to changing the focus!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-33152401028219615442015-06-09T14:40:23.849-05:002015-06-09T14:40:23.849-05:00I just went back to read that post and truer words...I just went back to read that post and truer words have never been spoken. I especially relate to the fear of being left all alone during a fun run (which actually has happened to me, and I've never been back to that running club ever since). You're so right about how it's no big deal to slow down to run with others, too! But it's hard to think that way when I know others are slowing down to run with me, right?emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-34661225150931292682015-06-09T14:38:43.779-05:002015-06-09T14:38:43.779-05:00You are so right about short runs being so differe...You are so right about short runs being so different from the long runs or races. Hal Higdon said in his training plan to do the long runs at a comfortable pace because "what matters is that you cover the prescribed distance. How quickly you do so doesn't matter." I try to remind myself of that, too. I am all about the high-fives and thanking the volunteers at races! It really does make a difference, you are right. Darn those bad days indeed!!!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-66628786775650448412015-06-09T14:22:14.515-05:002015-06-09T14:22:14.515-05:00Well, I wrote a similar post a couple years ago - ...Well, I wrote a similar post a couple years ago - we've all been there!<br /><br />http://annereallyblogs.blogspot.com/2013/09/shouldnt-i-be-enjoying-this.htmlAnnehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18403024177515079403noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-57068036750042173112015-06-09T14:13:19.087-05:002015-06-09T14:13:19.087-05:00Sorry to hear that your races have not been going ...Sorry to hear that your races have not been going as planned. Hopefully this next one will break the cycle. Goodluck in your training. Don't stress!Fairytales and Fitnesshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02523381883953946478noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-74724303164121986662015-06-09T14:04:37.614-05:002015-06-09T14:04:37.614-05:00Oh that's great that I was able to help a bit....Oh that's great that I was able to help a bit. Yes, it actually was a challenge to "learn" to run happy. Short runs are one thing but maybe longer runs or races (even short ones) really test you sometimes. Just realize that pace doesn't matter. That gets me sometimes. In the city, in the summer, it's just so beautiful, right? Focus on that. Or in a race (maybe a half), slap some spectators hands, or tell people great job. It's definitely not easy to run happy and I'm struggling this year too but it all comes back around. The good days of running are the best feeling in the world! Darn those bad days!Amandahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10155443976345011433noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-32788993238609653492015-06-09T11:50:04.226-05:002015-06-09T11:50:04.226-05:00Bethany, I was reading your post today about the s...Bethany, I was reading your post today about the start of this year's marathon training cycle (haven't commented yet, but will shortly) and I relate so much to all of your thoughts. I think one of my biggest fears with taking a break from running is that I'll lose all the fitness that I built up. So it's great to hear that you took such a nice break from running in January and February, yet you were able to pick right back up where you left off. Thanks for the positive thoughts!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-57635204057039792532015-06-09T11:35:20.569-05:002015-06-09T11:35:20.569-05:00I think it's totally acceptable to take a brea...I think it's totally acceptable to take a break from running when it stops being something fun. This past year, I ran I believe one time in all of January, and was really only running once a week for most of February as well. I had other priorities, and running had to fall by the wayside. I actually did the same thing after the marathon, too. I needed a break, so I took one, and it helped me want to run when the time came. Hopefully stepping away from it for a little while and finding other things to do instead will help you find your mojo again :)Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-28109429336678857832015-06-09T11:33:18.308-05:002015-06-09T11:33:18.308-05:00Really, really great advice, Anne. I originally st...Really, really great advice, Anne. I originally started running as a means to lose weight and get in shape. Early on, I didn't log my miles and I just wore a basic Timex watch that I barely looked at while running. And I would run just until I got tired - there was never any focus on hitting a certain distance. I love the idea of running now just to get fresh air and to sight-see, especially in the summertime. Thanks, Anne!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-89570094986812179262015-06-09T11:30:54.056-05:002015-06-09T11:30:54.056-05:00Thanks for the thoughts, Natalie. Jazzercise!!! I&...Thanks for the thoughts, Natalie. Jazzercise!!! I'm remembering your experience at Jazzercise through Class Pass. ;-) I do love the idea of branching out and trying something showy and ridiculous, though. I'm actually going to be attending a Beginner Salsa dance class this afternoon. Baby steps, right?<br /><br />I can certainly imagine that it would be a relief to take running off the schedule for awhile. The idea of having that kind of workout flexibility sounds awesome! It's also great to hear that you have been able to maintain your running fitness despite being focused on other things for awhile.<br /><br />Oh yeah, I'm totally with you on the shopping spree department. I think I enjoy shopping for workout clothes and shoes more than I actually enjoy wearing them, haha!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-51936517497295512112015-06-09T10:40:48.323-05:002015-06-09T10:40:48.323-05:00I think the best way to get out of any kind of fun...I think the best way to get out of any kind of funk is to remember why you were doing it in the first place. Why do you like running? I totally got caught up with logging all the metrics (I love numbers) and working toward improvements too, so I get where you're at. Not to say either is bad, but running is a hobby and still needs to be something you enjoy and look forward to - not just another thing you HAVE to do, or need to stress about. I think your plan will help you regain your focus. Do it to get out of the house, to enjoy some fresh air, to see our beautiful city, etc.Annehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18403024177515079403noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-45591028828261394362015-06-09T09:41:48.789-05:002015-06-09T09:41:48.789-05:00I think you're on the right track. Pull back ...I think you're on the right track. Pull back for a little while, do some cross training, and stop worrying about the ever persistent need to run better, faster, longer. Easier said than done, I know, but if you're not enjoying running and having injury issues, it's a must. Who knows, when you start doing more cross training, maybe you'll discover something new you'll love to do ... I'm imagining Jazzercise or Aerial Acrobatics or something equally showy and ridiculous. :-D<br /><br />After all the issues I had last spring/summer in regards to running and personal health, it was kind of a relief to take running off my schedule for awhile. And amazingly, even though I haven't followed any kind of training program for a good 6-8 months, I can still pickup a fun 5K run every so often and still do ok (meaning, I can run the entire thing and still keep a sub 11 min/mile pace).<br /><br />The hidden bonus in taking a break ... more free time to spend on myself. Though that did prove a bit of a problem in the shopping spree department. ;-)<br />Shinianenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15340969239524875329noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-11735455523783684272015-06-09T09:25:37.955-05:002015-06-09T09:25:37.955-05:00Thanks Amanda - I know how much you can relate to ...Thanks Amanda - I know how much you can relate to this feeling! I was remembering all of your blog posts last year about running happy. So the first thing I did was go back through your blog to find your post about how you changed your mindset. I think you've got some amazing words of wisdom there and I intend to take your advice to the very core. Much appreciate all of your encouragement!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-92150477097912493862015-06-09T09:23:49.409-05:002015-06-09T09:23:49.409-05:00I hate my injuries, too. They are so stubborn. I&#...I hate my injuries, too. They are so stubborn. I've got them under control with my PT and stretching, but they are always there lurking in the corner. So I literally feel your pain with the frustrations of injury!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-31658785307412012962015-06-09T09:23:02.776-05:002015-06-09T09:23:02.776-05:00Thanks Janelle! It's amazing how you get so sw...Thanks Janelle! It's amazing how you get so swept up in the excitement of all the races out there, but then reality starts to hit once you actually have to go out and RUN them, LOL. Cheers to the experience of running Garminless (terrifying as it is)!!!emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-1471375184762272072015-06-09T09:21:31.383-05:002015-06-09T09:21:31.383-05:00It is fantastic to hear that this plan has worked ...It is fantastic to hear that this plan has worked so well for you! What I love most is that your running has still stayed so strong, despite it not being your primary focus. That sounds like a win-win-win to me!<br /><br />Good luck at your triathlon this weekend! I can't wait to hear how you knock it out of the park! (Will miss you at the PAWS race, too.)emmers712https://www.blogger.com/profile/15865493476823978890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-2411603379040796162015-06-09T09:17:55.642-05:002015-06-09T09:17:55.642-05:00I felt that way after all my half marathons last y...I felt that way after all my half marathons last year. This year I wasn't able to do 2 halves I signed up for because of the surgery I had. So I have only done one race. And it's so freeing! I love not having to wake up and squeeze these things in all the time. Although I do have several things planned this summer. <br /><br />A way to get me out of my funk is to try different things, either running or non-running (like you suggested with Pure Barre). The different thing I'm trying is the tuesday a.m. speed work with my run group. It's so much better than doing it alone (even though I'm generally alone while actually running since it's by our own effort). Anyway, good luck. I think you are doing great! Just run and have fun. Look around at the beauty of summer. Amandahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10155443976345011433noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-52660153923774339602015-06-09T08:26:18.857-05:002015-06-09T08:26:18.857-05:00I hated my injury, and still resent the battle to ...I hated my injury, and still resent the battle to get back to running, but over time, I realized I got caught up in having to train and having to race instead of seeing running as a fun hobby.Lesleyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03806404383790065626noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3081872231855122210.post-53595496526674978732015-06-09T08:23:00.081-05:002015-06-09T08:23:00.081-05:00Oh the running funk...I think it happens to all of...Oh the running funk...I think it happens to all of us! Running blind sounds like a good idea. And sometimes not signing up for all the races can be absolutely necessary for your sanity. I hope you do enjoy Chicago when the time comes!Janelle @ Run With No Regretshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06580318957595973119noreply@blogger.com