today marks the end of this blog.
time for a new face lift!
see you at http://runtintin.wordpress.com
SWIM LOG
RUN LOG
Monday, March 09, 2009
Friday, March 06, 2009
TGIF
After a looong loong absence from writing, I find myself taking a breather on this lazy Friday, patiently waiting (more like impatiently) for the clock in my room to say 4:15pm.
So what brought me back? Simply because I now made peace with myself and my training schedule, laid all to rest instead of battling the turmoil and guilt of missing a run and not being able to do enough quality runs. Call it tabula rasa, time for a clean slate, and I think it all came about last weekend as I ran on the roads of Bantayan.
Maybe it was the thrill of focusing on the road that will take me to the town proper. The road was very straight-forward...no complexities, just smooth rolling hills with trees and fields all around. Had two reliable friends who ran and upped the pace with me as we did an Indian run, taking turns to lead and to follow at every kilometer. I actually liked the feeling. Had the chance to own up to my kilometer, was pressured to stay on pace with the thought of not lagging behind as someone else was behind me that would lag too if I did, and of course keeping up when it was my turn to be last of the line. The whole exercise taught me a few things. I think running alone most of the time that I've been here made me grow tired, simply because I had only myself to lead, not having a chance to give up the reins and follow someone once in a while. I guess that's the variety that running with a group brought me. Now that I've had my breather, it's time to start again and just do it. No ifs or buts this time.
I liken the feeling to a smoker who is trying to quit smoking and backslides into the habit. It really sucks, you feel like such a wuss for not being able to suck it up and do what you have to do. That's what I felt the few times I wasn't consistent with my training runs and finally succumbed to what we know as tamad-itis. So many excuses and so many other things to do when you know that at a drop of a hat, you could if you really really wanted to. So the second attempt comes, and the third, and the fourth, until you are ale to set out what you need to do.
I still am having difficulty finding a good, car-free, traffic-free, smoke-free and runner friendly place to run in regularly. Before I had BHS, now I'm still searching for a place big enough and feel safe enough for me to say, "this is my regular route". A place I can run in alone, or with friends. Bananarunning introduced me to the MActan Airport-Marcelo Fernan bridge route, which I did again two days back, and I think this is one of those routes I can get used to. It's not as quiet as BHS, definitely more cars as it passes the major roads chockfull of jeepneys, motorcycles and passenger cars. But I do like the road leading to and away from the Mactan Airport, as well as that point from the bridge upto the quiet road going all the way down to the corner you turn to which leads to Save More. Just a few pedestrians, no traffic buildup. A good place to zone out.
And so today marks the first day of my clean slate.
It's 4:15 already...thank God it's Friday... I'm off for a run!!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
BLACKHOLE
A blackhole is simply defined as an object with massive amounts of gravity that sucks anything and everything in its path.
I'm in a blackhole and no matter how hard I resist, it effortlessly zaps all my plans into oblivion. I felt it creeping in the moment I moved here. It ate away my enthusiasm for running... NOOoooooooo. Trying to get my groove back.....
Will channel Yoda and think "Do or do not, there is no try."
I'm in a blackhole and no matter how hard I resist, it effortlessly zaps all my plans into oblivion. I felt it creeping in the moment I moved here. It ate away my enthusiasm for running... NOOoooooooo. Trying to get my groove back.....
Will channel Yoda and think "Do or do not, there is no try."
Monday, November 03, 2008
KAWASAN FALLS-MOALBOAL WEEKEND PART 1
Just a week fresh from my diving certification, we couldn't wait to practice some skills and decided to go on a road trip to Kawasan Falls and Moalboal.
Good thing our friend T had some guests over who were also divers so together with the scuba team, minus A and C, we went off on his van one fine Saturday morning.
In record time (2 hours), we reached our first destination, Kawasan Falls.
You had to hike up a few meters to get to the falls, the 1st level being the biggest, the 2nd one mid-sized and the 3rd one being the source (but didn't get this far to see it). The hike up to the 1st falls was okay, the road gently sloped up and some parts were even cemented already. The water was very clean, just had a bit of whitish hue to it, maybe due to lime or minerals. The trees lined the pathways and shaded us from the sun. It was refreshing hearing the water rushing by and seeing birds and trees all around you.
Upon reaching the 1st falls, the first thing that came to mind was "I wonder where that Korean jumped?" as a few months ago, a Korean tourist died because another fellow Korean tourist was drunk and foolishly jumped from the falls and fell onto the other person down below. Morbid thoughts I know, but I can't help it! Haha.
The water was very cold...not cool okay, it was cold, imagine as cold as maybe the water you keep in the refrigerator, and even had fish swimming in it. To fully take part of the Kawasan Falls experience, we rode a bamboo raft that took us all the way to the falls which had a little cave under it, went inside the cave, under it and through the falls! The water pressure was something else and we had to crouch and hold on to our heads while going through.
Then we decided to see the 2nd falls, and the hike going up was way different. You had to watch where you were stepping as it was a bit slippery and you had to hold on to a few roots and rocks for balance. Not for the uncoordinated or elderly. The 2nd falls were smaller, and you could even do a little rock climbing to get to the top, in case you wanted the thrill of jumping into friggin' cold water. I found out that the higher you go, the colder the water is.
We had to reach our dive resort in Moalboal before 2pm so off we went again after spending maybe an hour or son in Kawasan. At least i can say I've been there....and it's a nice place to bring people to when in Cebu.
I'll post pictures in a few days as I'm still waiting for all the files, which K and T are compiling for everybody...
Next post... Moalboal diving.... =)
Good thing our friend T had some guests over who were also divers so together with the scuba team, minus A and C, we went off on his van one fine Saturday morning.
In record time (2 hours), we reached our first destination, Kawasan Falls.
You had to hike up a few meters to get to the falls, the 1st level being the biggest, the 2nd one mid-sized and the 3rd one being the source (but didn't get this far to see it). The hike up to the 1st falls was okay, the road gently sloped up and some parts were even cemented already. The water was very clean, just had a bit of whitish hue to it, maybe due to lime or minerals. The trees lined the pathways and shaded us from the sun. It was refreshing hearing the water rushing by and seeing birds and trees all around you.
Upon reaching the 1st falls, the first thing that came to mind was "I wonder where that Korean jumped?" as a few months ago, a Korean tourist died because another fellow Korean tourist was drunk and foolishly jumped from the falls and fell onto the other person down below. Morbid thoughts I know, but I can't help it! Haha.
The water was very cold...not cool okay, it was cold, imagine as cold as maybe the water you keep in the refrigerator, and even had fish swimming in it. To fully take part of the Kawasan Falls experience, we rode a bamboo raft that took us all the way to the falls which had a little cave under it, went inside the cave, under it and through the falls! The water pressure was something else and we had to crouch and hold on to our heads while going through.
Then we decided to see the 2nd falls, and the hike going up was way different. You had to watch where you were stepping as it was a bit slippery and you had to hold on to a few roots and rocks for balance. Not for the uncoordinated or elderly. The 2nd falls were smaller, and you could even do a little rock climbing to get to the top, in case you wanted the thrill of jumping into friggin' cold water. I found out that the higher you go, the colder the water is.
We had to reach our dive resort in Moalboal before 2pm so off we went again after spending maybe an hour or son in Kawasan. At least i can say I've been there....and it's a nice place to bring people to when in Cebu.
I'll post pictures in a few days as I'm still waiting for all the files, which K and T are compiling for everybody...
Next post... Moalboal diving.... =)
THE SCUBA TEAM
Have been quite busy the past few weekends getting my dive certification, hence the lack of any update, but yes, did it, no mishaps or anything, am done with the test, got my temporary card and just waiting for the official one to come in. I'm now as obsessed with scuba the same way I am with running.
It has gotten to the point that I dream about my next dive (in full color ha), all my dreams are about being underwater and am planning my weekends based on the next dive I'll be making... tsk tsk tsk
Our instructor, Mr. Alfred Alesna was very thorough in teaching us the mechanics, trying to answer all the questions we had (being the teachers that we are). He made sure we learned all the skills before moving on to the next one and made sure we were okay all the time. I felt very safe in the water because he kept an eye out for all of us. He regaled us with his dive stories and humbly shared things he's learned from them.
Okay (shhhh don't tell my scuba team mates either) I did study the book, I answered all the quizzes and highlighted the main objectives in every chapter GEEK ALERT! ALERT! but, it did help me understand the reason behind some of the things he taught us.
Cheers to the Scuba Team!
Monday, October 13, 2008
THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE
Now I know how he felt, going against a mountain waaay bigger than him.
I also went against the mountain yesterday for my 15k run.
It was tough as it was going uphill and it's my first time to run a long distance on that road too. Call it a baptism of fire as I really didn't know what to expect.
When the going gets tough, go sight-seeing! (and take pictures! hahaha)
Some of the scenes in my 15K route:
I wasn't able to take a picture of my 7.5k route marker though, which was a bright electric blue neighborhood water pump which the locals use for their water.
What was nice about the route up was it followed the side of the mountain, which had a mid sized stream running beside it. Since it rained the past couple of days, the stream had more water than usual. There were times I could hear it even if I couldn't see it. At certain parts of the route, if you peeked over the side of the ravine, there would be people down there washing their clothes and making chika. My friend told me that on really rainy days, you can actually go through this stream with a kayak (ala white water adventure).
As I went up, the houses got fewer and fewer until it was just foliage all around me. This was when thoughts of the Blair Witch came to mind and I hightailed back down to civilization.
Finished 15k in 2 hours (which I personally think took too long, but hey c'mon, for someone not used to running up a hill and being my first time in doing this route , it's not bad right?)
Endorphins weren't enough to keep me awake as I crashed and slept the whole day, Maybe waking up for a few hours to eat and work a bit before sleeping again.
Coach B! I did it! And finally broke that dry spell...till the next run!
I also went against the mountain yesterday for my 15k run.
It was tough as it was going uphill and it's my first time to run a long distance on that road too. Call it a baptism of fire as I really didn't know what to expect.
When the going gets tough, go sight-seeing! (and take pictures! hahaha)
Some of the scenes in my 15K route:
I wasn't able to take a picture of my 7.5k route marker though, which was a bright electric blue neighborhood water pump which the locals use for their water.
What was nice about the route up was it followed the side of the mountain, which had a mid sized stream running beside it. Since it rained the past couple of days, the stream had more water than usual. There were times I could hear it even if I couldn't see it. At certain parts of the route, if you peeked over the side of the ravine, there would be people down there washing their clothes and making chika. My friend told me that on really rainy days, you can actually go through this stream with a kayak (ala white water adventure).
As I went up, the houses got fewer and fewer until it was just foliage all around me. This was when thoughts of the Blair Witch came to mind and I hightailed back down to civilization.
Finished 15k in 2 hours (which I personally think took too long, but hey c'mon, for someone not used to running up a hill and being my first time in doing this route , it's not bad right?)
Endorphins weren't enough to keep me awake as I crashed and slept the whole day, Maybe waking up for a few hours to eat and work a bit before sleeping again.
Coach B! I did it! And finally broke that dry spell...till the next run!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
ITS NOW OR NEVER
Okay, I have to tell you a secret...shhh don't tell okay?
Coach B, you'll kill me I know but I haven't exactly been faithful to my training runs (eep!)
Let me recall circa 21-k half marathon in Subic, the T2 were at a loss after that because it was like... what's next? Not having a race to train for means not having a goal to reach. Not having a goal to reach means what do I do during training runs? Okay so yes, I've said it countless times that I will do a simulcast in December for that full marathon... but the thing is, it's not real to me... no matter how hard I pretend that it is, it's just not the same. =( I have to get out of this mindset I know, and I have to do it fast or else I might get stuck. It's like quicksand you know? The more I fight it, the more I sink into it...so I need to slowly, ever so slowly ease out of it.
So what do I do? Maybe start with a plan... and carry it through to get me out of this training stump. I hate not being able to finish something I've started, and that includes having a plan and not being able to follow through on it.
I've tried to muster enough courage to venture out to do at least a decent long run to no avail. I have a 15k plan tomorrow, and hope my training buddy doesn't flake on me yet again... but I promised myself this, training buddy or no training buddy, I will run that 15 k. There, I've said it, will do it. IN the event my body is found on a roadside, I have my trusty roadID to ensure I'm not a Jane DOe. Will bring my water, have my Polar strapped on, Phone for emergencies, money (for taho or Gatorade in case I am about to crash) and snacks.
Wish me luck!
Coach B, you'll kill me I know but I haven't exactly been faithful to my training runs (eep!)
Let me recall circa 21-k half marathon in Subic, the T2 were at a loss after that because it was like... what's next? Not having a race to train for means not having a goal to reach. Not having a goal to reach means what do I do during training runs? Okay so yes, I've said it countless times that I will do a simulcast in December for that full marathon... but the thing is, it's not real to me... no matter how hard I pretend that it is, it's just not the same. =( I have to get out of this mindset I know, and I have to do it fast or else I might get stuck. It's like quicksand you know? The more I fight it, the more I sink into it...so I need to slowly, ever so slowly ease out of it.
So what do I do? Maybe start with a plan... and carry it through to get me out of this training stump. I hate not being able to finish something I've started, and that includes having a plan and not being able to follow through on it.
I've tried to muster enough courage to venture out to do at least a decent long run to no avail. I have a 15k plan tomorrow, and hope my training buddy doesn't flake on me yet again... but I promised myself this, training buddy or no training buddy, I will run that 15 k. There, I've said it, will do it. IN the event my body is found on a roadside, I have my trusty roadID to ensure I'm not a Jane DOe. Will bring my water, have my Polar strapped on, Phone for emergencies, money (for taho or Gatorade in case I am about to crash) and snacks.
Wish me luck!
Thursday, October 09, 2008
JUST RUN
There are days I just want to run so bad that I will brave stray, rabid, mean dogs and bad weather. Today is one of them.
Attempted to run despite the clouds threatening to pour down water any minute now. And it did. Did the 4 k loop with J but had to backtrack as the route we needed to pass (which meant going under a bridge) was unpassable because of the presence of water, thus currents too. On sunny days, we could easily cross it as it was dry and full of gravel... but not today.
So running/walking under the dark reddish sky, we then did our last kilometer, quietly contemplating our lack of foresight. It started getting dark, the only light coming from a sliver of the setting sun on the horizon. And then darkness. Almost immediately the crickets started to sing, signalling the end of the day. The route back was not well lit, as lamp posts were far in between, and we had yet to reach the cement road that meant we were near civilization aka the village that we had to cross to get back to our starting point.
We got back all right, and I'm glad I didn't have to run alone today.
Attempted to run despite the clouds threatening to pour down water any minute now. And it did. Did the 4 k loop with J but had to backtrack as the route we needed to pass (which meant going under a bridge) was unpassable because of the presence of water, thus currents too. On sunny days, we could easily cross it as it was dry and full of gravel... but not today.
So running/walking under the dark reddish sky, we then did our last kilometer, quietly contemplating our lack of foresight. It started getting dark, the only light coming from a sliver of the setting sun on the horizon. And then darkness. Almost immediately the crickets started to sing, signalling the end of the day. The route back was not well lit, as lamp posts were far in between, and we had yet to reach the cement road that meant we were near civilization aka the village that we had to cross to get back to our starting point.
We got back all right, and I'm glad I didn't have to run alone today.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
BRICK WORKOUT
7:30 am
It's the start of another day, and if I had a remote control like Adam Sandler's in that movie CLick, I'd fast forward to 4:30pm.
Attempting to do a brick later...maybe 10 laps in the pool and then a 5k run...
Believe it, or not! mwahahaha
-----
5:45 pm
Just finished my brick and I'm endorphin high happy I did it. Swam with Coach J and J, and did some extra laps to support J as she was finishing her last lap....todo support diba?
I didn't want to traumatize J into never running again, so asked if she wanted to run with us on the road or stay in the gym...she chose the gym but did promise not to stop and on our end, we promised we'd be back in 30 minutes. So Coach J and I had 30 mins to complete the 5k loop... which we did in 26 minutes! With matching hills and a little trail run pa hahahaha. But it was fuuuun!!! I mean at least I was able to do an impromptu tempo run since I tried to match Coach Js pace....yes he is waaaay faster but was nice enough to slow down a bit being our first brick.
Really looking forward to next Tuesday for the next one.... come December...project BIKE here I come...
It's the start of another day, and if I had a remote control like Adam Sandler's in that movie CLick, I'd fast forward to 4:30pm.
Attempting to do a brick later...maybe 10 laps in the pool and then a 5k run...
Believe it, or not! mwahahaha
-----
5:45 pm
Just finished my brick and I'm endorphin high happy I did it. Swam with Coach J and J, and did some extra laps to support J as she was finishing her last lap....todo support diba?
I didn't want to traumatize J into never running again, so asked if she wanted to run with us on the road or stay in the gym...she chose the gym but did promise not to stop and on our end, we promised we'd be back in 30 minutes. So Coach J and I had 30 mins to complete the 5k loop... which we did in 26 minutes! With matching hills and a little trail run pa hahahaha. But it was fuuuun!!! I mean at least I was able to do an impromptu tempo run since I tried to match Coach Js pace....yes he is waaaay faster but was nice enough to slow down a bit being our first brick.
Really looking forward to next Tuesday for the next one.... come December...project BIKE here I come...
Monday, September 22, 2008
Back From A Break
Getting sick does that to you, you get a break even when you think you don't need one but actually do.
Was down with the flu over the past week which completely threw my schedule off track...literally! I wasn't able to do any run or swims the whole week because I felt like crap. To top it off, I still had to work because I couldn't NOT work... I felt my fever wasn't high enough for me to stay home (something I decided myself mind you) as I could still move around and teach, and i had a gazillion deadlines to meet...so work vs. time off? I chose to work. Besides it's boring staying home when you have no one to talk to except your trusty old cable TV, you live in an apartment the size of a shoebox, and you have to cook your own food in case you get hungry...that is no fun when you're sick hehe.
But am now well, and started my week with a swim. Glad I have my usual routine back... yes I am a creature of habit.
Was down with the flu over the past week which completely threw my schedule off track...literally! I wasn't able to do any run or swims the whole week because I felt like crap. To top it off, I still had to work because I couldn't NOT work... I felt my fever wasn't high enough for me to stay home (something I decided myself mind you) as I could still move around and teach, and i had a gazillion deadlines to meet...so work vs. time off? I chose to work. Besides it's boring staying home when you have no one to talk to except your trusty old cable TV, you live in an apartment the size of a shoebox, and you have to cook your own food in case you get hungry...that is no fun when you're sick hehe.
But am now well, and started my week with a swim. Glad I have my usual routine back... yes I am a creature of habit.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
HOW IT ALL STARTED
Looking back, it was that one uneventful night in Italianni's Fort which marked the day the running bug got me. I was with two friends, sitting on that outside booth by the door and just hanging out, minding my own bread and olive oil-herb mixture when I saw BananaRunning ans MyIronShoes pass by in their running gear.
Curiosity got the better of me so I quickly rang up MyIronshoes and said "Hey I see ya!!! What are you doing in Fort in your running gear?" and she went on to tell me that she had a PLAN and it entailed running. Since she knew I used to be bike, run and swim a lot, she invited me to come and join them on weeknights.
I didn't run that very same day, but that thought was planted, and it germinated and it grew and quickly mushroomed and ballooned into a MARATHON DREAM.
It started innocently enough, with me going to work the next day, running a few days in a week, balancing badminton with running. Then I found more and more running buddies as the days went by, simply because I talk a lot about things I like and if you even show the remotest inkling of interest I would then proceed to coerce you into trying it out. So I coerced people to try running. And then I chose, to focus on running and let badminton lie low for a while...I mean I gave it a few years... why not try soemthing new right?
I found B and revived her passion for running (which waned significantly when her group didn't run regularly anymore) and introduced her to my runner friends My IronShoes and BananaRunning, and also to converted badminton-now-runner friends Keti and Xt. And then H also happens to mention he wants to try it and soon enough, despite being the only token male amidst makukulit and matigas na ulo females, T2 is formed. Then there's A who always manages to disappear in the middle of the run to find herself lounging around in someone's backseat to rest and cheer us on, or take pictures of us during races.
I think everything really gelled together when we went on our 21K in Subic. That cemented T2 and the rest, as they say, is history.
We're setting our sights on doing a full marathon this December (others in Singapore, me doing a simulcast at home).
So you see, it only takes an idea to power a dream, this one being the full marathon. Finding friends to share it with just makes it easier to reach.
Curiosity got the better of me so I quickly rang up MyIronshoes and said "Hey I see ya!!! What are you doing in Fort in your running gear?" and she went on to tell me that she had a PLAN and it entailed running. Since she knew I used to be bike, run and swim a lot, she invited me to come and join them on weeknights.
I didn't run that very same day, but that thought was planted, and it germinated and it grew and quickly mushroomed and ballooned into a MARATHON DREAM.
It started innocently enough, with me going to work the next day, running a few days in a week, balancing badminton with running. Then I found more and more running buddies as the days went by, simply because I talk a lot about things I like and if you even show the remotest inkling of interest I would then proceed to coerce you into trying it out. So I coerced people to try running. And then I chose, to focus on running and let badminton lie low for a while...I mean I gave it a few years... why not try soemthing new right?
I found B and revived her passion for running (which waned significantly when her group didn't run regularly anymore) and introduced her to my runner friends My IronShoes and BananaRunning, and also to converted badminton-now-runner friends Keti and Xt. And then H also happens to mention he wants to try it and soon enough, despite being the only token male amidst makukulit and matigas na ulo females, T2 is formed. Then there's A who always manages to disappear in the middle of the run to find herself lounging around in someone's backseat to rest and cheer us on, or take pictures of us during races.
I think everything really gelled together when we went on our 21K in Subic. That cemented T2 and the rest, as they say, is history.
We're setting our sights on doing a full marathon this December (others in Singapore, me doing a simulcast at home).
So you see, it only takes an idea to power a dream, this one being the full marathon. Finding friends to share it with just makes it easier to reach.
Monday, September 01, 2008
BREAKTHROUGH
I told myself the night before...I will not wimp out, I will run tomorrow, I will run no matter what... AND I DID!
Gathered enough guts to shut out the thought that rabid stray dogs will get the better of me (and believe me, there are a lot around here....stray dogs though....so the rabies comes in a close second I think) and I simply RAN. I got out of the house by 5:30am, ran for an hour and a half, walked a bit, around 3/4ths into my run, some friends who are new to running joined me and also had the guts to run outdoors (their first time ever) and they enjoyed it. Beginnings of a T2 South?? Hopefully =).
The past two months, going out for a run was a real challenge because I wasn't confident and comfortable enough with the surrounding area. You know that feeling when you don't have your bearings yet, and your only reality is work, home, grocery, laundry, atm and mall? I felt so constrained and frustrated which wreaked havoc on my running program. Back to square one. Okay, so I tried going to the gym, but when the traffic going there became unbearable (as there's this huge chunk of the way in which a new flyover is being built) PLUS when the thought of doing another long run on the treadmill seemed unbearable too, I just simply had it.
After 2 months of feeling simply lost, I finally finally had a breakthrough yesterday. I think it was more of mind-over-matter thing in which I have finally accepted that this is home for the next couple of years and I simply had to live with or without the things and routines and schedules I used to have before.
I mean come on, having lived in the city all my life, moving down South is a huge change....everything is slower, less variety in things to do, places to go, reataurants to eat in, people to meet, running events to join...
Imagine, before, I would sleep around 12 to 2 am simply because the way things were, at 2 am you could still go out and have things to do or go to places to eat. Here, everything winds down by 8:30 pm and the mall closes at 9pm. Establishments refuse to entertain you (meaning the actually turn business away) if it means it might interfere with them going home at 9 AM!!!
Before, running events were aplenty and you actually had to choose your races well as there were many that were not in Biscocho-caliber (right Bananarunning?). Now in the land of football, running events are few and far between (I mean hello! For a while the Milo event was even in danger of being cancelled - which is a major race in the country). I actually went to the Mizuno store last Sunday and pressured the sales people into entertaining the thought of doing a Mizuno Run and even jokingly said (well, I actually meant it) that if they had a running event or clinic like the one they do in Fort, I'd actually be one of the first to join.
So now, the huge difference is my life has been simplified, not because I have to, but because I want to. I sleep at 9am and wake up at 6am. I get to run MWF in the afternoons now (well, I started again this week) and I get to cross train and swim in the afternoons every Tues and Thurs. Other than that of course WORK keeps me busy but I have a lot of time to myself too, to just relax, hang out with friends...and RUN AND SWIM.
Ironshoes, my next project is getting a bike. I have a friend here who is training for the Ironman in Manila next March... not that I'll be ready by then but I'll join him in training.....the bike will come soon enough.
So here's to a breakthrough Sunday!
December Singapore Marathon simulcast...here I come!
Gathered enough guts to shut out the thought that rabid stray dogs will get the better of me (and believe me, there are a lot around here....stray dogs though....so the rabies comes in a close second I think) and I simply RAN. I got out of the house by 5:30am, ran for an hour and a half, walked a bit, around 3/4ths into my run, some friends who are new to running joined me and also had the guts to run outdoors (their first time ever) and they enjoyed it. Beginnings of a T2 South?? Hopefully =).
The past two months, going out for a run was a real challenge because I wasn't confident and comfortable enough with the surrounding area. You know that feeling when you don't have your bearings yet, and your only reality is work, home, grocery, laundry, atm and mall? I felt so constrained and frustrated which wreaked havoc on my running program. Back to square one. Okay, so I tried going to the gym, but when the traffic going there became unbearable (as there's this huge chunk of the way in which a new flyover is being built) PLUS when the thought of doing another long run on the treadmill seemed unbearable too, I just simply had it.
After 2 months of feeling simply lost, I finally finally had a breakthrough yesterday. I think it was more of mind-over-matter thing in which I have finally accepted that this is home for the next couple of years and I simply had to live with or without the things and routines and schedules I used to have before.
I mean come on, having lived in the city all my life, moving down South is a huge change....everything is slower, less variety in things to do, places to go, reataurants to eat in, people to meet, running events to join...
Imagine, before, I would sleep around 12 to 2 am simply because the way things were, at 2 am you could still go out and have things to do or go to places to eat. Here, everything winds down by 8:30 pm and the mall closes at 9pm. Establishments refuse to entertain you (meaning the actually turn business away) if it means it might interfere with them going home at 9 AM!!!
Before, running events were aplenty and you actually had to choose your races well as there were many that were not in Biscocho-caliber (right Bananarunning?). Now in the land of football, running events are few and far between (I mean hello! For a while the Milo event was even in danger of being cancelled - which is a major race in the country). I actually went to the Mizuno store last Sunday and pressured the sales people into entertaining the thought of doing a Mizuno Run and even jokingly said (well, I actually meant it) that if they had a running event or clinic like the one they do in Fort, I'd actually be one of the first to join.
So now, the huge difference is my life has been simplified, not because I have to, but because I want to. I sleep at 9am and wake up at 6am. I get to run MWF in the afternoons now (well, I started again this week) and I get to cross train and swim in the afternoons every Tues and Thurs. Other than that of course WORK keeps me busy but I have a lot of time to myself too, to just relax, hang out with friends...and RUN AND SWIM.
Ironshoes, my next project is getting a bike. I have a friend here who is training for the Ironman in Manila next March... not that I'll be ready by then but I'll join him in training.....the bike will come soon enough.
So here's to a breakthrough Sunday!
December Singapore Marathon simulcast...here I come!
Friday, August 22, 2008
RUNNING BUDDY JUNKIE
I cannot run by myself in unfamiliar territory.
I've tried it, wasn't really too happy, especially when you are training for something.
I WANT TO DO A SIMULCAST SINGAPORE MARATHON HERE DOWN SOUTH.
I'M ALL SET.... the only thing missing are training buddies.
It helps when you have a buddy to tell you to run faster, or to simply go on when the long runs are extra long.
That's why I miss my T2 buddies.
I met a few people who said they are running and am trying out a run with them this Wednesday. Let's hope for the best that they're as fun as T2.
One thing that keeps my hopes up is that there's one, J who does triathlons and can teach me Total Immersion AND is looking for a training buddy... me! me! I want! hehe
Off to Dumaguete for the long weekend... Apo Island, here I come!!!
I've tried it, wasn't really too happy, especially when you are training for something.
I WANT TO DO A SIMULCAST SINGAPORE MARATHON HERE DOWN SOUTH.
I'M ALL SET.... the only thing missing are training buddies.
It helps when you have a buddy to tell you to run faster, or to simply go on when the long runs are extra long.
That's why I miss my T2 buddies.
I met a few people who said they are running and am trying out a run with them this Wednesday. Let's hope for the best that they're as fun as T2.
One thing that keeps my hopes up is that there's one, J who does triathlons and can teach me Total Immersion AND is looking for a training buddy... me! me! I want! hehe
Off to Dumaguete for the long weekend... Apo Island, here I come!!!
I WOKE UP TO DEATH THIS MORNING
It was like any other ordinary day.
Upon waking, I would usually just try to get back to sleep and when the inevitable of waking looms heavily over me, then I give up and resign to getting up from bed.
My usual routine would be to gamely wake him up to start the day, but he didn't.
Blink.
I tried again, twice, three times to wake him from his sleep but he wouldn't.
This can't be happening. I frantically called up anyone who might know what to do, but it was too late.
I had to leave for Cagayan De Oro, for a team building weekend, and with a heaviness weighing down on me, I simply left...
Goodbye Blue,
I will miss my Ipod.
*sniff.
Upon waking, I would usually just try to get back to sleep and when the inevitable of waking looms heavily over me, then I give up and resign to getting up from bed.
My usual routine would be to gamely wake him up to start the day, but he didn't.
Blink.
I tried again, twice, three times to wake him from his sleep but he wouldn't.
This can't be happening. I frantically called up anyone who might know what to do, but it was too late.
I had to leave for Cagayan De Oro, for a team building weekend, and with a heaviness weighing down on me, I simply left...
Goodbye Blue,
I will miss my Ipod.
*sniff.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
PRE RUN CHECKLIST
Hi, my name is Runtintin and I'm a sucker for running stuff.
(support circle answers "Hi Runtintin!")
I can't help it. I enjoy using my gadgets. I like stuff that I think will make me a better and safer runner.
I have long quelled the addiction to bring my Ipod when I run.
Sometimes I just bring and wear it for props, not to show off mind you, but it wards off would-be conversations from complete strangers when all that I want is time to be ignored and left alone to run without any distraction. So sometimes I wear it but don't even turn it on. I even wear the headphones even if it's off. And besides, not turning it on is safer as it keeps you aware of your surroundings.
I love love love my Polar.
I heart it. I really don't mind it when my heart goes over the said heart rate limit and begins to beeps like crazy. There are days when I feel perfectly fine even if it says my heart is over exerting itself. I trust my body more than the gadget, as sometimes the gym stuff and the Polar do not mix and tends to mess up the heart rate reading. I love it anyway for other reasons. Like helping me keep track of time, and pace, and distance. And I can even use it on the bike to take note of cadence and rpm.
My Road ID comes in at third.
It has all the numbers of people to call in case of an emergency. And it's so lightweight I don't even know it's there. It fits perfectly so it doesn't go around and around my wrist in that irritating way when you wear a gadget that's just too loose, which eventually leads to chaffing which is something you do not ever want to have. Ever.
My Nathan Water Belt is the bomb.
I can now run without worry of getting thirsty. I don't have to rely on the water station which has water that tastes funny. Inside it can fit my phone, Gu, other food like chocolates, granola bars etc etc (yes am afraid of hunger).
If you want to make me happy, giving me running stuff is the way to go.
I'm that easy to please. =)
(support circle answers "Hi Runtintin!")
I can't help it. I enjoy using my gadgets. I like stuff that I think will make me a better and safer runner.
I have long quelled the addiction to bring my Ipod when I run.
Sometimes I just bring and wear it for props, not to show off mind you, but it wards off would-be conversations from complete strangers when all that I want is time to be ignored and left alone to run without any distraction. So sometimes I wear it but don't even turn it on. I even wear the headphones even if it's off. And besides, not turning it on is safer as it keeps you aware of your surroundings.
I love love love my Polar.
I heart it. I really don't mind it when my heart goes over the said heart rate limit and begins to beeps like crazy. There are days when I feel perfectly fine even if it says my heart is over exerting itself. I trust my body more than the gadget, as sometimes the gym stuff and the Polar do not mix and tends to mess up the heart rate reading. I love it anyway for other reasons. Like helping me keep track of time, and pace, and distance. And I can even use it on the bike to take note of cadence and rpm.
My Road ID comes in at third.
It has all the numbers of people to call in case of an emergency. And it's so lightweight I don't even know it's there. It fits perfectly so it doesn't go around and around my wrist in that irritating way when you wear a gadget that's just too loose, which eventually leads to chaffing which is something you do not ever want to have. Ever.
My Nathan Water Belt is the bomb.
I can now run without worry of getting thirsty. I don't have to rely on the water station which has water that tastes funny. Inside it can fit my phone, Gu, other food like chocolates, granola bars etc etc (yes am afraid of hunger).
If you want to make me happy, giving me running stuff is the way to go.
I'm that easy to please. =)
Monday, August 11, 2008
WHEN THINGS GET TOUGH...I RUN
Running is keeping me sane....work is insane... but yes, running helps.
I am feeling lost and helpess as a drenched kitty holding on for dear life to a plank of wood in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
This is one kitty that's developing gills and fins as we speak. It's a reality I have to deal with as calling it quits is not an option. I am literally telling myself 24/7 to JUST DO IT as no one else will.
Call me stubborn but I guess that's one thing that the T2 have in common. Hard-headed (matigas lang talaga ang ulo). NEVER SAY NEVER!!!
And this little kitty wants to run and run just so stress doesn't get the better of me.
Anyway, gotta get back to work again....
PS. Anyone, please give me a Cebu race I can join... I need a running goal too so at least taht's one thing I have control over...
I am feeling lost and helpess as a drenched kitty holding on for dear life to a plank of wood in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
This is one kitty that's developing gills and fins as we speak. It's a reality I have to deal with as calling it quits is not an option. I am literally telling myself 24/7 to JUST DO IT as no one else will.
Call me stubborn but I guess that's one thing that the T2 have in common. Hard-headed (matigas lang talaga ang ulo). NEVER SAY NEVER!!!
And this little kitty wants to run and run just so stress doesn't get the better of me.
Anyway, gotta get back to work again....
PS. Anyone, please give me a Cebu race I can join... I need a running goal too so at least taht's one thing I have control over...
Monday, July 28, 2008
SUCCESSFUL NEGATIVE SPLITS
(Was supposed to post this last Wednesday...or was it Thursday? but forgot...)
Had my first real success in doing negative splits, no cheating this time as I would only be cheating myself and suffer in a future race (who knows when this will be). But so there, mentally, now I know I can really do negative splits if I concentrate hard enough. Decided to up my pace every kilometer in this 5KM workout. I know I know puny distance but hey, you gotta start somewhere right?
Some things that helped me survive:
1. Fool yourself that it will all be over in a few minutes PLUS plenty of self talk.
Whenever I upped the pace a little, the first few minutes were not quite enjoyable as my legs are still getting used to the pounding. So I’d tell myself to hang in there for two minutes and it will all be over (even if based on that pace, I still have like 800 meters to go hahaha). THEN as soon as two minutes are up, I’d check my distance and if I haven’t reached that KM mark yet, I’d do it all over again. I think I’m pretty good at convincing myself of my own lies hahahaha. It helps to have that mini goal in mind, it keeps you focused. Just remember to re-set that goal as soon as you’re done with it till you reach the end of the workout. It doesn’t even have to be based on time, it can be as silly as keeping the pace till you see a red car (if you’re running at the gym and you have no choice but to look at what’s in front of you – my view is a flyover). It gets your mind off the fact that you have a long way to go in your workout.
2. Form, form, form PLUS body sensing.
As each KM got harder and harder, I really really put in a lot of effort to make sure I had the right form. More times than most, I’d be feeling off or get tired easily when my form was off. So I’d make a quick correction here and there, such as letting my left foot land inward more as I have the tendency to let it stray outside, or maybe tell myself to relax and use more of my core instead of tensing up. Know that body and get a feel of when your form is at its best or worst. Then you’ll be able to make that little physical adjustment when needed.
3. Cotton and Steel
Trying to internalize more of Chi Running by Danny Dreyer, I pretended my limbs and all those connected to it (knees, ankles, feet, toes, arms, hands, wrist, fingers) were like cotton – light, airy, close to weightless, no tension there at all. As for my trunk, that was what had to feel like steel, although not in a tense your muscles kind of way but more like keeping it stable and letting it do all the work. Firm yet flexible.
4. Breathe with your mouth open (just a bit so the flies don’t get in)
I finally convinced my mouth to keep itself open just a little and to use it to my advantage when breathing. Not that I’d suck-in-all-the-air-in-a-5 –meter- radius-vacuum-type of breathing mind you, but have it naturally fall open just a little whenever I would take in air. Breathing in enough to fill your diaphragm is very very hard to do if done only through your nose as it takes more time and makes me lose my rhythm. So there, don’t be afraid to open up haha.
If I can do a negative split, you can do it too. Hope some of these things help you through one!
Had my first real success in doing negative splits, no cheating this time as I would only be cheating myself and suffer in a future race (who knows when this will be). But so there, mentally, now I know I can really do negative splits if I concentrate hard enough. Decided to up my pace every kilometer in this 5KM workout. I know I know puny distance but hey, you gotta start somewhere right?
Some things that helped me survive:
1. Fool yourself that it will all be over in a few minutes PLUS plenty of self talk.
Whenever I upped the pace a little, the first few minutes were not quite enjoyable as my legs are still getting used to the pounding. So I’d tell myself to hang in there for two minutes and it will all be over (even if based on that pace, I still have like 800 meters to go hahaha). THEN as soon as two minutes are up, I’d check my distance and if I haven’t reached that KM mark yet, I’d do it all over again. I think I’m pretty good at convincing myself of my own lies hahahaha. It helps to have that mini goal in mind, it keeps you focused. Just remember to re-set that goal as soon as you’re done with it till you reach the end of the workout. It doesn’t even have to be based on time, it can be as silly as keeping the pace till you see a red car (if you’re running at the gym and you have no choice but to look at what’s in front of you – my view is a flyover). It gets your mind off the fact that you have a long way to go in your workout.
2. Form, form, form PLUS body sensing.
As each KM got harder and harder, I really really put in a lot of effort to make sure I had the right form. More times than most, I’d be feeling off or get tired easily when my form was off. So I’d make a quick correction here and there, such as letting my left foot land inward more as I have the tendency to let it stray outside, or maybe tell myself to relax and use more of my core instead of tensing up. Know that body and get a feel of when your form is at its best or worst. Then you’ll be able to make that little physical adjustment when needed.
3. Cotton and Steel
Trying to internalize more of Chi Running by Danny Dreyer, I pretended my limbs and all those connected to it (knees, ankles, feet, toes, arms, hands, wrist, fingers) were like cotton – light, airy, close to weightless, no tension there at all. As for my trunk, that was what had to feel like steel, although not in a tense your muscles kind of way but more like keeping it stable and letting it do all the work. Firm yet flexible.
4. Breathe with your mouth open (just a bit so the flies don’t get in)
I finally convinced my mouth to keep itself open just a little and to use it to my advantage when breathing. Not that I’d suck-in-all-the-air-in-a-5 –meter- radius-vacuum-type of breathing mind you, but have it naturally fall open just a little whenever I would take in air. Breathing in enough to fill your diaphragm is very very hard to do if done only through your nose as it takes more time and makes me lose my rhythm. So there, don’t be afraid to open up haha.
If I can do a negative split, you can do it too. Hope some of these things help you through one!
LIFE HAPPENS...AGAIN!
Today marks the 10th day of work...yes am excited about it and the novelty hasn't worn off yet... but it has been distracting me from my running schedule. Was unable to do a weekend long run because going on a tour of the city (yes this is part of work) seemed more exciting.
But lo and behold, while on tour, I FINALLY FOUND A PLACE OUTDOORS WHERE I CAN DO LONG RUNS yahooooo.... I'm talking about the SRP in Cebu. Yes! Okay T2, we have to run here. It has a pretty nice view of the ocean and is a pretty long stretch...am thinking of going there this Saturday to see just how long it is.... exciting!
But lo and behold, while on tour, I FINALLY FOUND A PLACE OUTDOORS WHERE I CAN DO LONG RUNS yahooooo.... I'm talking about the SRP in Cebu. Yes! Okay T2, we have to run here. It has a pretty nice view of the ocean and is a pretty long stretch...am thinking of going there this Saturday to see just how long it is.... exciting!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
HAPPY 5K
We had a name game yesterday at work, just so we could remember the names of the new ones in the team. You had to pair your name with an adjective and mine was Happy.
Happy relates to my running... I got my groove back!
I no longer dread the gym, in fact it's my escape from the fact that I'm not anywhere near home or it's comforts. So, takbo na lang!
I've been doing my regular 5K runs...literally starting from scratch in my training program... but nevertheless I enjoy it, because my relationship with the 5K is like an old friend you haven't seen in a while, and once you do re-connect, there's something new you learn from the encounter.
From my 5K today, I realized that..
1. I have to focus on maintaing my form ALWAYS (ala Chi Running by Danny Dreyer)no matter what the pace...it really does help make use of your energy more efficiently.
2. Doing negative splits conditions you to have a stronger finish...Im halfway there though as have yet to do a real negative split...I cheated. Did 7.0 for the first KM, 7.5 for the next, 8.0 for the third, down to 7.0 for the 4th and back to 8.0 for the last.
Happy relates to my running... I got my groove back!
I no longer dread the gym, in fact it's my escape from the fact that I'm not anywhere near home or it's comforts. So, takbo na lang!
I've been doing my regular 5K runs...literally starting from scratch in my training program... but nevertheless I enjoy it, because my relationship with the 5K is like an old friend you haven't seen in a while, and once you do re-connect, there's something new you learn from the encounter.
From my 5K today, I realized that..
1. I have to focus on maintaing my form ALWAYS (ala Chi Running by Danny Dreyer)no matter what the pace...it really does help make use of your energy more efficiently.
2. Doing negative splits conditions you to have a stronger finish...Im halfway there though as have yet to do a real negative split...I cheated. Did 7.0 for the first KM, 7.5 for the next, 8.0 for the third, down to 7.0 for the 4th and back to 8.0 for the last.
Monday, July 14, 2008
IT'S ALL ABOUT PERSPECTIVE
One of the things I thought about today was how running totally changes your perspective.
Before, the thought of walking out in the street was enough for me to say "no thanks" and choose to happily stay in my couch-potato-trance-like-state in front of the TV.
Now, an invite to run is always met with the enthusiasm of Road Runner out to beat Wil E Coyote. Gone are the days when I'd dread walking, as I found that it actually is fun being out there, pounding out miles with your trusty shoes and taking in the scenery.
Thanks to H, gone are the days when I'd be wary about running in the rain. Contrary to popular belief, a little bit of rain won't make you sick!! (Well, given that you feel in tip top condition, don't have the sniffles or a cough or something.)
Being out on your feet makes you feel connected with the world outside, which I think is something we need to do once in a while to realize that you're part of something bigger.
How serious!! La lang, felt like being reflective for a change.
Before, the thought of walking out in the street was enough for me to say "no thanks" and choose to happily stay in my couch-potato-trance-like-state in front of the TV.
Now, an invite to run is always met with the enthusiasm of Road Runner out to beat Wil E Coyote. Gone are the days when I'd dread walking, as I found that it actually is fun being out there, pounding out miles with your trusty shoes and taking in the scenery.
Thanks to H, gone are the days when I'd be wary about running in the rain. Contrary to popular belief, a little bit of rain won't make you sick!! (Well, given that you feel in tip top condition, don't have the sniffles or a cough or something.)
Being out on your feet makes you feel connected with the world outside, which I think is something we need to do once in a while to realize that you're part of something bigger.
How serious!! La lang, felt like being reflective for a change.
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