10.59 miles/185 vert./1:22:07/7:45 pace/135 avg. HR Garmin Data
Brandon met me at work for a casual mid day run. Headed out on the LoBo trail through Niwot and back at a conversational pace and was good to catch up, made the miles pass by quickly. Was even better to snap up a $20 bill on the ground along the way.
Sierra
Sierra
Monday, January 30, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Sunday, 01/29/12 Green Mountain
Up/Down NE Ridge(ish)
3.07 miles/2,283 vert./1:01:52 (36:40 up)/141 avg. HR Garmin Data
Very easy up and down. Was reasonably warm today, but the wind was hammering pretty good high on the mountain and made it feel a bit colder.
3.07 miles/2,283 vert./1:01:52 (36:40 up)/141 avg. HR Garmin Data
Very easy up and down. Was reasonably warm today, but the wind was hammering pretty good high on the mountain and made it feel a bit colder.
Saturday, 01/28/12 S. Boulder/Bear
From S. Mesa TH (via Homestead/Shadow)
7.22 miles/3,264 vert./1:43:53/avg. HR 139 Garmin Data
This was a bit of a surprise outing in the late afternoon, as Allison got called off of work, so I took advantage and was able to get out for a run. Was headed for Green, but figured with the little extra time, I should do something a bit longer/different, so made the last minute decision for S. Boulder and Bear. Took things pretty easy for the most part, going slow as to not get too far ahead of Sierra and then waiting occasionally for her to catch up. Half way up Shadow, I bumped into Rex and crew (second time in a week), so I stopped and chatted with them for a while.
There was a LOT of ice on the trails, especially in Shadow Canyon, but intead of wearing Microspikes, I wore a pair of newly screwed shoes and that was definitely the better choice. I got better grip on the ice and did not worry about dulling a new pair of Microspikes on all of the exposed rock. I have several boxes of screws at home still, so I may screw a few pairs of shoes and default to this method for a while (at least until we get some fresh snow on the trails). I wish we would just get a few feet of snow several times over, like the Winter of 06/07, where we had perfect trench conditions December through March (unfortunately that was during the pre Microspike era).
Made the summit of S. Boulder in 54, 9 minutes to Bear, then a real casual/cautious 40 back to the car. Another awesome day out with Sierra.
7.22 miles/3,264 vert./1:43:53/avg. HR 139 Garmin Data
This was a bit of a surprise outing in the late afternoon, as Allison got called off of work, so I took advantage and was able to get out for a run. Was headed for Green, but figured with the little extra time, I should do something a bit longer/different, so made the last minute decision for S. Boulder and Bear. Took things pretty easy for the most part, going slow as to not get too far ahead of Sierra and then waiting occasionally for her to catch up. Half way up Shadow, I bumped into Rex and crew (second time in a week), so I stopped and chatted with them for a while.
There was a LOT of ice on the trails, especially in Shadow Canyon, but intead of wearing Microspikes, I wore a pair of newly screwed shoes and that was definitely the better choice. I got better grip on the ice and did not worry about dulling a new pair of Microspikes on all of the exposed rock. I have several boxes of screws at home still, so I may screw a few pairs of shoes and default to this method for a while (at least until we get some fresh snow on the trails). I wish we would just get a few feet of snow several times over, like the Winter of 06/07, where we had perfect trench conditions December through March (unfortunately that was during the pre Microspike era).
Made the summit of S. Boulder in 54, 9 minutes to Bear, then a real casual/cautious 40 back to the car. Another awesome day out with Sierra.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Friday, 01/27/12 Green Mountain
Up/Down NE Ridge(ish)
3.12 miles/2,284 vert./1:11:30 RT(40:35 up)/137 avg. HR Garmin Data
Just as I was leaving the house, it was starting to flurry, which was a bit of a surprise, as the morning had started off somewhat sunny. By the time we (Sierra and I) got to Boulder and started up the trail, it was snowing quite hard and I was happy to know the conditions under the dusting of snow and was able to get by without spikes for most of the up (all but the final 6-7 minutes).
Went easy going up and even easier going down (wearing spikes for the entire descent), hiking the entire time except for just a few minutes of jogging near the summit. Had a really good fall on a very steep section of the descent (even going really slow and cautious) but was fortunate to not get hurt at all. This caused me to slow it down even more and really take no chances.
Sierra was just going batty in the fresh snow and it was great to spend quality time with her. Another great day out despite the traction challenges.
3.12 miles/2,284 vert./1:11:30 RT(40:35 up)/137 avg. HR Garmin Data
Just as I was leaving the house, it was starting to flurry, which was a bit of a surprise, as the morning had started off somewhat sunny. By the time we (Sierra and I) got to Boulder and started up the trail, it was snowing quite hard and I was happy to know the conditions under the dusting of snow and was able to get by without spikes for most of the up (all but the final 6-7 minutes).
Went easy going up and even easier going down (wearing spikes for the entire descent), hiking the entire time except for just a few minutes of jogging near the summit. Had a really good fall on a very steep section of the descent (even going really slow and cautious) but was fortunate to not get hurt at all. This caused me to slow it down even more and really take no chances.
Sierra was just going batty in the fresh snow and it was great to spend quality time with her. Another great day out despite the traction challenges.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Thursday, 01/26/12 Boulder Creek Path/Sanitas Valley Baby Jogger Run/Hike
9.02 miles/952 vert./9:49 pace/142 avg. HR Garmin Data
(pace was skewed a bit by the two miles at 11:29 and 19:32, basically steep uphill running or hiking)
Today was nice and warm (high 50's, low 60's?), but better yet, it was absolutely calm while we were out, so this was quite the treat.
Parked at Scott Carpenter Park (thinking since the pool was closed, the lot would be empty, but was quite surprised that I got the last spot.... could not figure out why?), then ran an errand over near 28th and Canyon. From there, we headed over to Folsom, to the creek path and then eventually worked our way over to Sanitas Valley. Was able to maintain a run with the jogger to the top of the smooth dirt road portion of the trail (not steep when I run solo, but steep to run while pushing 75-80lbs). At the end, even though the trail transitioned to semi technical single track, I decided to keep heading up and see how far I could get. It was not easy, but I was able to heave the jogger up a ways and negotiate my way over the log steps and around rocks, but I soon was stopped by some larger rock steps and forward progress seemed futile.
Carefully headed back down (this is where I really appreciate having brakes) and then took a little side trail over toward the old quarry where we stopped to have a snack and enjoy the warm sunshine.
The trip back to the car was quick and enjoyable, it being pretty much all downhill helped a lot. Once back to Scott Carpenter Park, I released the girls to run around on the grass and we had fun chasing each other around for a bit (they are getting faster by the day).
This was as high as we got, as the East Ridge Trail got a bit too rugged
(pace was skewed a bit by the two miles at 11:29 and 19:32, basically steep uphill running or hiking)
Today was nice and warm (high 50's, low 60's?), but better yet, it was absolutely calm while we were out, so this was quite the treat.
Parked at Scott Carpenter Park (thinking since the pool was closed, the lot would be empty, but was quite surprised that I got the last spot.... could not figure out why?), then ran an errand over near 28th and Canyon. From there, we headed over to Folsom, to the creek path and then eventually worked our way over to Sanitas Valley. Was able to maintain a run with the jogger to the top of the smooth dirt road portion of the trail (not steep when I run solo, but steep to run while pushing 75-80lbs). At the end, even though the trail transitioned to semi technical single track, I decided to keep heading up and see how far I could get. It was not easy, but I was able to heave the jogger up a ways and negotiate my way over the log steps and around rocks, but I soon was stopped by some larger rock steps and forward progress seemed futile.
Carefully headed back down (this is where I really appreciate having brakes) and then took a little side trail over toward the old quarry where we stopped to have a snack and enjoy the warm sunshine.
The trip back to the car was quick and enjoyable, it being pretty much all downhill helped a lot. Once back to Scott Carpenter Park, I released the girls to run around on the grass and we had fun chasing each other around for a bit (they are getting faster by the day).
This was as high as we got, as the East Ridge Trail got a bit too rugged
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Wednesday, 01/25/12 Green Mountain
Up/Down NE Ridge
3.09 miles/2,281 vert./57:23 (35:22 up)/avg. HR 158 Garmin Data
Decent run today and was a bit more efficient with my route choice than I was on Monday. The first section of ice on lower Amphitheater is negotiable/avoidable for the most part, then it is pretty much dry ground and smooth sailing until the last 6 or 7 minutes of Greenman.
Pushed a little bit on the up, nothing too hard, just working. Did not feel nearly as good as I did on Monday though, so I lost more time that day than I first thought.
Went quick at times on the descent, but slowed to a cautious walk/jog when necessary. It was another very warm day and I was definitely a little over dressed, as I would have been fine in shorts and one long sleeve shirt (but it is January after all).
3.09 miles/2,281 vert./57:23 (35:22 up)/avg. HR 158 Garmin Data
Decent run today and was a bit more efficient with my route choice than I was on Monday. The first section of ice on lower Amphitheater is negotiable/avoidable for the most part, then it is pretty much dry ground and smooth sailing until the last 6 or 7 minutes of Greenman.
Pushed a little bit on the up, nothing too hard, just working. Did not feel nearly as good as I did on Monday though, so I lost more time that day than I first thought.
Went quick at times on the descent, but slowed to a cautious walk/jog when necessary. It was another very warm day and I was definitely a little over dressed, as I would have been fine in shorts and one long sleeve shirt (but it is January after all).
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Tuesday, 01/24/12 LoBo Run
7.09 miles/98 vert./54:16/7:39 pace/138 avg. HR Garmin Data
As is usual for this type of run (what I typically regard as flat and boring, or, anything that is not up a mountain or across a Grand Canyon), I spend the first .5-1.0 miles contemplating just bagging the whole thing. The only thing that keeps me going is a good line up of podcasts and the fact that I went through the effort to get dressed into my running clothes (and it is good to get a little fresh air in the middle of the day).
I feel like I am laboring a bit, but look at my watch and I am hovering at a sluggish low 8:?? pace and feel like I am working, yet my HR is in the 120's. As the minutes tick by, I slowly transition from "maybe I should turn back..." to "maybe 4 miles?" to "6 will be appropriate for an easy day that I would normally take off" to "maybe I could squeeze in 8 or 10?" to "would I be in trouble with the boss if I ran for 20?". I compromise with 7 and imperceptibly ratchet the HR up 10-15 beats higher, but it all feels surprisingly easy. The urge hits to rip a few miles at the fastest pace I can muster, but I refrain, as my intent now is just to stay active and maintain a decent base level of fitness.
These flat runs I find more and more interesting as I progress, as I see my economy improve a little bit each time, faster pace at lower HR and less perceived effort. What I am doing seems to be what I imagine to be a loose (and mostly coincidental) form of MAF and I might be starting to think there is a little something to it.
As is usual for this type of run (what I typically regard as flat and boring, or, anything that is not up a mountain or across a Grand Canyon), I spend the first .5-1.0 miles contemplating just bagging the whole thing. The only thing that keeps me going is a good line up of podcasts and the fact that I went through the effort to get dressed into my running clothes (and it is good to get a little fresh air in the middle of the day).
I feel like I am laboring a bit, but look at my watch and I am hovering at a sluggish low 8:?? pace and feel like I am working, yet my HR is in the 120's. As the minutes tick by, I slowly transition from "maybe I should turn back..." to "maybe 4 miles?" to "6 will be appropriate for an easy day that I would normally take off" to "maybe I could squeeze in 8 or 10?" to "would I be in trouble with the boss if I ran for 20?". I compromise with 7 and imperceptibly ratchet the HR up 10-15 beats higher, but it all feels surprisingly easy. The urge hits to rip a few miles at the fastest pace I can muster, but I refrain, as my intent now is just to stay active and maintain a decent base level of fitness.
These flat runs I find more and more interesting as I progress, as I see my economy improve a little bit each time, faster pace at lower HR and less perceived effort. What I am doing seems to be what I imagine to be a loose (and mostly coincidental) form of MAF and I might be starting to think there is a little something to it.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Monday, 01/23/12 Green Mountain
Up Steep Snow/Down NE(ish)
3.07 miles/2,337 vert./1:09:57 (46:17 up)/149 avg HR Garmin Data
Started off from the Gregory side of the Gregory lot and headed S/SW up the steep hillside in a stupid effort to avoid the ice. I was moving fast and felt as though I would get to the top of Amphi at or ahead of a "normal" split for a comparable effort (6:30ish). Gained a ridge above the actual Amphitheater and could see the trail about 75 vertical feet below, so I tried to contour toward it without losing elevation, but got cliffed out several times and was forced in directions I did not want to go and still had to do some scrambling and elevation loss to get back on track. Finally made the junction at 11:05, having wasted nearly 5 minutes (all to avoid a minute or two worth of ice). I was annoyed with myself at this poor decision and considered a do over, as I was feeling really strong and knew I had a good climb in me today, but much of the purpose of going "fast" today was because I was in a hurry to get home at a decent time.
Back on track, I pushed hard again to make up some time for my mistake, but once I got to the ice between the 1st Flatiron access trail and the spring, I started heading up the hillside again (yes to avoid the ice and having to take the 20 seconds to put on my spikes). The path of least resistance only lasted for 20 seconds or so and then it was a very steep, slippery and brushy climb, forcing frequent stops to wrestle with branches and contemplate the least worst way. That was the easy part. Soon, the snow deepened on the North slopes to a very surprising depth, necessitating waist deep wallowing over deadfall, crawling and the occasional bush/tree hand belay. Making good time was now a non issue and the only question now was if I would be able to make it up the in your face hillside. That was a major mistake and when I got to familiar terrain, I was now 10-11 minutes behind where I should be for a comparable effort and not nearly as high on the NE Ridge Trail as I had predicted.
Back on track, again, it was an comparatively easy jaunt to the summit and got there in 46 (a bummer, knowing that I would have been at least 11 minutes quicker had I chosen better lines). Headed back down the NE ridge and stuck to known paths and familiar (and clear) woods. A bit of an oops in the ascent route and was frustrating at times, but looking back, it was cool to see a few new areas that I had not seen before.
3.07 miles/2,337 vert./1:09:57 (46:17 up)/149 avg HR Garmin Data
Started off from the Gregory side of the Gregory lot and headed S/SW up the steep hillside in a stupid effort to avoid the ice. I was moving fast and felt as though I would get to the top of Amphi at or ahead of a "normal" split for a comparable effort (6:30ish). Gained a ridge above the actual Amphitheater and could see the trail about 75 vertical feet below, so I tried to contour toward it without losing elevation, but got cliffed out several times and was forced in directions I did not want to go and still had to do some scrambling and elevation loss to get back on track. Finally made the junction at 11:05, having wasted nearly 5 minutes (all to avoid a minute or two worth of ice). I was annoyed with myself at this poor decision and considered a do over, as I was feeling really strong and knew I had a good climb in me today, but much of the purpose of going "fast" today was because I was in a hurry to get home at a decent time.
Back on track, I pushed hard again to make up some time for my mistake, but once I got to the ice between the 1st Flatiron access trail and the spring, I started heading up the hillside again (yes to avoid the ice and having to take the 20 seconds to put on my spikes). The path of least resistance only lasted for 20 seconds or so and then it was a very steep, slippery and brushy climb, forcing frequent stops to wrestle with branches and contemplate the least worst way. That was the easy part. Soon, the snow deepened on the North slopes to a very surprising depth, necessitating waist deep wallowing over deadfall, crawling and the occasional bush/tree hand belay. Making good time was now a non issue and the only question now was if I would be able to make it up the in your face hillside. That was a major mistake and when I got to familiar terrain, I was now 10-11 minutes behind where I should be for a comparable effort and not nearly as high on the NE Ridge Trail as I had predicted.
Back on track, again, it was an comparatively easy jaunt to the summit and got there in 46 (a bummer, knowing that I would have been at least 11 minutes quicker had I chosen better lines). Headed back down the NE ridge and stuck to known paths and familiar (and clear) woods. A bit of an oops in the ascent route and was frustrating at times, but looking back, it was cool to see a few new areas that I had not seen before.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Sunday, 01/22/12 Green Mountain
Up/Down Front/NE
3.12 miles/2,281 vert./1:05:39 RT (38:46 up)/143 avg. HR Garmin Data
I have been a little discouraged with the current trail conditions as of late, but with a little extra work and good knowledge of the terrain, I was able to avoid the worst of the ice by getting off trail occasionally and taking the NE ridge. Microspikes were mandatory for the uppermost section and the very bottom of the Amphitheater Trail. Hiked for the most part (moderate pace) on the up and jogged very easy on the down.
3.12 miles/2,281 vert./1:05:39 RT (38:46 up)/143 avg. HR Garmin Data
I have been a little discouraged with the current trail conditions as of late, but with a little extra work and good knowledge of the terrain, I was able to avoid the worst of the ice by getting off trail occasionally and taking the NE ridge. Microspikes were mandatory for the uppermost section and the very bottom of the Amphitheater Trail. Hiked for the most part (moderate pace) on the up and jogged very easy on the down.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Saturday, 01/21/12 SoBo/Bear
7.18 miles/3,209 vert./1:58/140 avg. HR Garmin Data
Sierra and I met Homie at the S. Mesa TH and started up the Homestead Trail at 3:21pm. Was in the low 60s today, but the wind was kicking up a little at the trailhead. Only a minor nuisance at the start and on the summits, forgot about it though for most of the run/hike.
Homie started off Brandon style and had me sucking wind for the first 5 or 10 minutes. Eventually I got warmed up and engaged him in conversation to slow him a bit. Went pretty casual for the remainder of the time, super slow on the down, as it was either ice or rock and made for some awkward running (if you want to call it that), then we had to wait for Sierra a bit over the final 1.5 miles (where she always "dogs it").
Great afternoon to get out and enjoy catching up with a great friend and my favorite pooch.
Sierra and I met Homie at the S. Mesa TH and started up the Homestead Trail at 3:21pm. Was in the low 60s today, but the wind was kicking up a little at the trailhead. Only a minor nuisance at the start and on the summits, forgot about it though for most of the run/hike.
Homie started off Brandon style and had me sucking wind for the first 5 or 10 minutes. Eventually I got warmed up and engaged him in conversation to slow him a bit. Went pretty casual for the remainder of the time, super slow on the down, as it was either ice or rock and made for some awkward running (if you want to call it that), then we had to wait for Sierra a bit over the final 1.5 miles (where she always "dogs it").
Great afternoon to get out and enjoy catching up with a great friend and my favorite pooch.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Friday, 01/20/12 Local Baby Jogger Run
8 miles/286 vert./1:06:55/8:22 pace/147 avg. HR
This morning was amazing and felt more like April than January. It was warm, calm, sunny, calm. Did I mention calm? I was eager to get out for a run, but first had to deal with changing, feeding, napping, changing, feeding and dog walking before I could get outside and play.
Finally got the girls loaded in the Chariot a little after 11am, opened the garage door, then the "you have got to be frickin kidding me" moment of the day occurred, the WIND started cranking. Serious? Took the dog out for her obligatory mile walk and then while dropping her off, did a quick wardrobe shuffle (mainly needed to add gloves and swap out for my hooded shirt, so I could hide from the wind).
Anyways, the wind was hammering from the West and I figured it would be prudent to head into it, toward Davidson Mesa, as I leaned at a 45 degree angle, heaving on thesail jogger just to get it to move. At times, I found myself upping the effort just to stay moving at 10-11 pace. Once I rounded the far corner at Davidson Mesa though, it was smooth sailing all the way home (where I was on the brakes to maintain a sub 7 pace and even got down in the low 5s at one point, where my feet could hardly keep up).
While heading back along Davidson Mesa, we spotted two horses hanging out in their little corral/yard and stopped so the girls could have a look. Amelie LOVES horses and much to her amusement, they both came over to the low fence and allowed for us to pet them. This was a huge hit with her and she giggled, waved and stroked their soft snouts. I gave Isabelle her turn, but she was not quite as excited about it, so I gave Amelie another turn while Isabelle happily observed from the comfort of the Chariot. This simple encounter was easily the highlight of the run.
Video:
Amelie
Amelie
Amelie
Isabelle not quite as excited (but still interested)
Isabelle
This morning was amazing and felt more like April than January. It was warm, calm, sunny, calm. Did I mention calm? I was eager to get out for a run, but first had to deal with changing, feeding, napping, changing, feeding and dog walking before I could get outside and play.
Finally got the girls loaded in the Chariot a little after 11am, opened the garage door, then the "you have got to be frickin kidding me" moment of the day occurred, the WIND started cranking. Serious? Took the dog out for her obligatory mile walk and then while dropping her off, did a quick wardrobe shuffle (mainly needed to add gloves and swap out for my hooded shirt, so I could hide from the wind).
Anyways, the wind was hammering from the West and I figured it would be prudent to head into it, toward Davidson Mesa, as I leaned at a 45 degree angle, heaving on the
While heading back along Davidson Mesa, we spotted two horses hanging out in their little corral/yard and stopped so the girls could have a look. Amelie LOVES horses and much to her amusement, they both came over to the low fence and allowed for us to pet them. This was a huge hit with her and she giggled, waved and stroked their soft snouts. I gave Isabelle her turn, but she was not quite as excited about it, so I gave Amelie another turn while Isabelle happily observed from the comfort of the Chariot. This simple encounter was easily the highlight of the run.
Video:
Amelie
Amelie
Amelie
Isabelle not quite as excited (but still interested)
Isabelle
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Thursday, 01/19/12 Local Baby Jogger Run
8 miles/195 vert./1:03:24/7:55 pace/141 avg. HR
Ran some errands in the literal sense today, swinging by Runner's Roost, the supermarket and then the library. It was over 60 today and quite nice, though a little windy at times (but nothing like last night or what was predicted for today). Went pretty easy for the most part, with my slowest miles being a few seconds over 8:00 pace (headwind) and the fastest being 6:47 pace (tailwind where I was just letting the jogger roll on it's own with the occasional correction (yes, I had the wrist leash on as always)).
As I arrived at home and heaved the jogger into the garage, it dawned on me that the jogger was quite heavy and I realized that I should have done my shopping at King Soupers nearer to the house at mile 7 of the run, instead of Albertsons 3 miles in, but the whole thing was kind of a last minute decision.
Ran some errands in the literal sense today, swinging by Runner's Roost, the supermarket and then the library. It was over 60 today and quite nice, though a little windy at times (but nothing like last night or what was predicted for today). Went pretty easy for the most part, with my slowest miles being a few seconds over 8:00 pace (headwind) and the fastest being 6:47 pace (tailwind where I was just letting the jogger roll on it's own with the occasional correction (yes, I had the wrist leash on as always)).
As I arrived at home and heaved the jogger into the garage, it dawned on me that the jogger was quite heavy and I realized that I should have done my shopping at King Soupers nearer to the house at mile 7 of the run, instead of Albertsons 3 miles in, but the whole thing was kind of a last minute decision.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Wednesday, 01/18/12 Longmont Run
6.03 miles/104 vert./46:33/7:43 pace/140 avg. HR Garmin Data
Easy run on the LoBo trail into Niwot and back. Quite the steady headwind on the way out, went super easy. Turned around and was really happy to have a good tailwind, so I upped the effort just a little bit, yet was going 1:30-2 min/mile faster. Sweet.
Mile 1: 8:34/141 HR
Mile 2: 8:32/129 HR
Mile 3: 8:29/134 HR
Mile 4: 6:54/146 HR
Mile 5: 6:38/153 HR
Mile 6: 7:12/145 HR
Though not my favorite type of run, I am enjoying this type of run more and more. The hardest part is just getting out the door and getting through the first mile. The key for me, is having an MP3 player and good podcasts to listen to, as I get so preoccupied with what I am listening to, I forget that I am not running mountains (well not really, just takes the sting off and I look at it as better than NOT getting out). Having a Garmin helps a lot as well, as it makes such runs more interesting and quantifiable. I like that I can watch my pace in relation to HR and see how it varies depending on terrain, wind, how I feel, pushing a jogger or not, varying cadence, etc.....
Oh yeah, checked out a video on Hulu yesterday about the Costa Concordia shipwreck (operated by Carnival Cruise Lines) and was surprised by the ad from Princess Cruises that I had to watch beforehand, then got to look at the ad in the upper right of the screen. It should read "30 seconds not enough to abandon ship?"
Easy run on the LoBo trail into Niwot and back. Quite the steady headwind on the way out, went super easy. Turned around and was really happy to have a good tailwind, so I upped the effort just a little bit, yet was going 1:30-2 min/mile faster. Sweet.
Mile 1: 8:34/141 HR
Mile 2: 8:32/129 HR
Mile 3: 8:29/134 HR
Mile 4: 6:54/146 HR
Mile 5: 6:38/153 HR
Mile 6: 7:12/145 HR
Though not my favorite type of run, I am enjoying this type of run more and more. The hardest part is just getting out the door and getting through the first mile. The key for me, is having an MP3 player and good podcasts to listen to, as I get so preoccupied with what I am listening to, I forget that I am not running mountains (well not really, just takes the sting off and I look at it as better than NOT getting out). Having a Garmin helps a lot as well, as it makes such runs more interesting and quantifiable. I like that I can watch my pace in relation to HR and see how it varies depending on terrain, wind, how I feel, pushing a jogger or not, varying cadence, etc.....
Oh yeah, checked out a video on Hulu yesterday about the Costa Concordia shipwreck (operated by Carnival Cruise Lines) and was surprised by the ad from Princess Cruises that I had to watch beforehand, then got to look at the ad in the upper right of the screen. It should read "30 seconds not enough to abandon ship?"
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Tuesday, 01/17/12 Green Mountain
Up/Down Back
5.37 miles/2,367 vert./1:12:12 (43:12 up)/138 avg. HR Garmin Data
After getting a less than encouraging conditions report from Green Mountain, I decided to skip it and head up Bear instead. But, as I walked out of work, I could hardly open the door as the wind was hammering pretty hard and I was unsure whether Bear was still the best idea or not. As I drove toward Boulder (watching the wind kick up snow devils in town and in the foothills), I waffled literally minute to minute between Bear, Sanitas and various routes on Green. Traffic patterns and whichever lane I happened to be in at the time, ultimately dictated my choice and before I knew it, I was at the Gregory lot.
Luckily, the wind seemed to have calmed slightly for a bit, or I might have been in a little bit of a wind shadow. I started off without spikes and put them on below the second significant rocky section in Gregory. Conditions right now are really dismal. WAY too much rock and bare ground to wear Microspikes, but simultaneously WAY too much ice (now hidden by a dusting of powder) to not wear spikes. Uggg.
Went pretty easy on the up and even easier on the down. Even going as slow and easy as I did, I still had a few good slips and close calls. All the ice kind of beats one up on the descent, as it is the hardest running surface I have ever encountered. I am almost tempted to stick to pavement (maybe do SuperFlag for my climbing days) until things improve.
5.37 miles/2,367 vert./1:12:12 (43:12 up)/138 avg. HR Garmin Data
After getting a less than encouraging conditions report from Green Mountain, I decided to skip it and head up Bear instead. But, as I walked out of work, I could hardly open the door as the wind was hammering pretty hard and I was unsure whether Bear was still the best idea or not. As I drove toward Boulder (watching the wind kick up snow devils in town and in the foothills), I waffled literally minute to minute between Bear, Sanitas and various routes on Green. Traffic patterns and whichever lane I happened to be in at the time, ultimately dictated my choice and before I knew it, I was at the Gregory lot.
Luckily, the wind seemed to have calmed slightly for a bit, or I might have been in a little bit of a wind shadow. I started off without spikes and put them on below the second significant rocky section in Gregory. Conditions right now are really dismal. WAY too much rock and bare ground to wear Microspikes, but simultaneously WAY too much ice (now hidden by a dusting of powder) to not wear spikes. Uggg.
Went pretty easy on the up and even easier on the down. Even going as slow and easy as I did, I still had a few good slips and close calls. All the ice kind of beats one up on the descent, as it is the hardest running surface I have ever encountered. I am almost tempted to stick to pavement (maybe do SuperFlag for my climbing days) until things improve.
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