First Quarter Review

In January, I created a year-long training plan here to make all my races work together... and ultimately land me a substantial marathon PR in the fall.  The plan was broken into phases to keep my focus in line (and keep myself from doing anything stupid). And just like that, the first quarter of 2014 is gone. It's time to check in...

RUN MILES 
January 94
February 105
March 113    
Q1 Total 312
For the most part, I was successful at slowly building my mileage and keeping plantar fasciitis (PF) at bay. It pops up from time to time again. As long as I roll and stretch the foot after every run, it's good.  As I started 2014, fresh off pneumonia, three miles was a tough workout. I felt like I was starting this running thing all over again, from scratch. There were days I cried over my evaporated endurance. But slowly, I trudged through one of the toughest winters (since I started running). I refused to let the constant snow and bitter cold temperatures stop me. The 'quick 3' began to feel short and easy once again. I'm happy to say now (three months later) that I feel like I'm back to where I was last fall.

RACES
January 11 - Chicago Polar Dash (14 miles)
March 15 - Shamrock 8K
March 16 - Shamrock Half Marathon
(click on the race names for full recaps)

I was a wee-bit worried about finishing the Chicago race, based off my simple lack of training. Could I even run 14 miles? I took it slow and consistent, but ran the total 14 miles in wet cold conditions. In March, I was thrilled to be back on my #RaceAll50 journey... checking off state #20 in Virginia. Both the 8K and 13.1 were a test of control and pacing for me, and I was happy with the results. Keeping my pace under 10min/miles for both races, with a nice kick to finish each.

CHALLENGES

For eight weeks, I hosted the #WinterMiles Challenge. Over 1400 people started the New Year with this challenge! The concept was basic - an accountability to encourage participants to run their miles each week - without giving in to winter excuses. There were prize giveaways each week, as well as a mid-challenge virtual race. I received so much positive feedback on the challenge, that we'll definitely repeat next winter.

The ZOOMA contest engulfed me at the end of January and all of February. Everyday, I begged my friends, family and readers to vote for me. It consumed so much of my thoughts - trying to come up with new ideas each day and obsessed with following the votes.  It was a close race, but in the end, I won the trip to run ZOOMA Napa Valley (June 28)... and then got the joy of giving away a second trip! I will never be able to thank you enough for this! California will now be state #24 on my #RaceAll50 quest.

CROSS TRAINING
Spinning - 43 classes
That's an average of 3.6 classes per week, most of which I was the instructor. No matter how you look at it, getting paid to workout is a bonus! My classes have been full as of lately which gives me a energy boost. By far, Spinning is my favorite cross-train and the numbers prove it.

Swimming - 5 workouts
Total fail here. I started the year with a pledge to get back into the pool. It does wonders to widdle my middle and lose weight - without the extra pounding on my runner legs. All five swims I've done have gone well, and yet like strength work, my heart is just not in it. If I have any hope of not drowning doing well in my July Olympic Triathlon, I best get myself focused and in the pool. This is a must-change for the second quarter.

Strength - 9 sessions
All but one of these classes, I was the instructor. (Every Mon night, I teach a 1/2 hour Strength class at the gym - 10 minutes each of arms, legs, core.) Simply put, I need to do more strength work on my own. I have a huge assortment of weights at home and should utilize it more. Working 10-15 minute sessions into my day would payoff big for my running. I somehow just gotta will myself to do it, even when I don't want to.

HONORS
In the past few months, I was named an Ambassador for both ProCompression and Gone For A Run. These are two companies whom I highly regard their products (as in I buy them and use them). I'm excited to share more opportunities with these brands (giveaways! discounts!) for you.

Use code BLG14 for 40% off Marathon Socks & Arm Sleeves at ProCompression!

WEIGHT
I'm disappointed that I haven't lost a single pound in the first quarter. After a roller coaster of up/down 5 pounds, I stand exactly where I was on New Years. In order to hit my marathon run goals this year, I have GOT to get a good 20 lbs off.  I'm not overly obsessed with the scale, but a lower number certainly makes running easier, faster and less pounding on my joints.  What's my problem? I like the sweets, carbs and beer. To win, I've gotta get it under control.

Here's to new quarter... April thru June!  

More miles, more swim, more strength, better food.

Check out my upcoming race schedule here.

How was the start of YOUR year?

What are your goals for the 2nd quarter?