11-8-2010 Run

Who knew a 0.3% grade could give a new runner such an issue? I feel crappy two-thirds of the way into this 2.5 mile route. The only difference between this route and the 2 mile route is the long uphill grade from mile 0.5 to mile 1.4. Yes, nine-tenths of a mile (4752 feet) with a 19 foot rise. 0.3% grade. Who knew? I could not keep my heart rate below 170 bpm, and had to walk twice to bring my heartrate back down. It only takes about 45 seconds to lower my heart rate below 160, but still... Next time I think I will try running the route backwards to see if it makes any difference.

When I started the run, the weather widget on my computer said 37 degrees. So I dressed accordingly - long sleeve shirt, long pants, running jacket and gloves, baseball cap. I stepped outside and knew instantly it was not 37. Or perhaps my body grew accustomed to the colder weather. So I ditched the jacket. But I've never been able to step outside in 37 degrees with only a shirt. Towards the end of the run, my hands were too warm with the gloves on, and the cap was making me sweat like a pig. The long sleeves and the running pants did feel about right.

I also tried wearing my new Fuel Belt. I was quite impressed. Not much bounce at all - it was quite comfortable. The bottles were easy to pull out, but a bit hard to put back in. Hopefully the straps loosen up a bit over time and it becomes easier to use. I took one bottle with Accelerade and one with water. Not that it means much - the short distances I'm running so far do not call for hydration. My purpose was to try it out and see how it feels.

I also used one full serving (two scoops) of After Glow recovery drink to see if that helps muscle soreness. As of 8 hours after the run, so far, so good.

Split times: Unknown. 2.5 miles in 27:30. Average 11 minute miles. Weather: the weather widget said 37, but I don't think so. Probably more like 45. Sunny, no breeze. Clothing: Baseball cap, sunglasses, long sleeve shirt, long pants, running gloves, cotton socks. (Next time, ditch the gloves at 45 degrees, and switch from baseball cap to visor). Pre run beverage: Water. Post run: Two scoops of "AfterGlow" recovery drink.