Training Log – May 21, 2008

SCHEDULE: Warmup, Run, and Stretch

RUN:
      Length: 8.53 miles
       Time:  1:09:02
       Pace: 8:04 per mile
       Calories Burned: 1,294

CONDITIONS: Mild, sunny

NOTES: To start, I thought that I would begin adding a more extensive warm-up into my routine. Prior to today, I would simply begin running at an easy pace and let that loosen my muscles up. Today, I did some dynamic stretching exercises, focusing on quads, hips, hamstrings, etc. This got my legs a little loose and my heart rate up before I started down my driveway. Without question, this is something that I will continue to do. My run simply felt better – my legs didn’t cramp, and that first half-mile was much more enjoyable since I was already warmed up.

As for the run itself, it was definitely a good one. This is my longest run since I started keeping track, and I can say that it went very well. Other than the fairly big climb at the end of the course, I never really slowed down significantly or felt and aches or burning sensations in my legs. Sure they began to get tired after mile four, but it wasn’t painful or distracting. My breathing was better, I had no cramps (one at the very end coming up the hill, but that’s it) and my back never acted up. In short, all of the problems I had yesterday weren’t an issue today. Some of that may have had to do with flatter course that I ran today, but I think that I also chose a better pace and regulated my breathing much better today as well. The one annoying portion of the course was the busy intersections that I had to cross. This was a good route, but I may make some adjustments to try and cut one or more of them out next time around.

A shorter prep run tomorrow and I’ll be ready for the Run for Dave!