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July 31, 2008
Early start
As predicted, I only had time for a quick bike workout this morning beginning at 5am--barely enough time to watch one episode of "Dexter." I think I wasn't quite awake yet because I never really got into a rhythm or felt like I was really working as hard as I could. I At least I did something before spending a couple of hours on the train to New Jersey. And I knew I would fall asleep on the train anyway and be able to (sort of) make up for the early wake-up call.
In fact, I fell asleep about 5 minutes after finishing a venti-sized Starbucks coffee--my co-worker on the train with me was quite impressed. You just can't beat me at napping or sweating, my two hidden talents.
Our meeting went well and I had the pleasure of getting to spend a few minutes with my friend who works at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (site of our meeting). This was only my second time there but I am slowly learning my way around and I am quite enthralled with the cafeteria, although I would probably get sick of eating there every day. But there are a lot of healthy choices and always a nice salad bar.
Our train was delayed coming back so we did not get back to Union Station until a little after 6. I took the Metro up to the gym closest to our house, but that was delayed too so the whole thing felt like it took forever. I didn't want to spend too much time there so I did my second clenched-butt run on the treadmill (still no mirror to be found anywhere) which lasted 18 minutes. I felt pretty good although my knee is a little sore now. After the "run," I hopped on the bike for a bit, then did my hip/glute exercises and abs. Matt and I ended up getting home about the same time so it worked out well.
I have had a bit of a strange week with two days out of the office and I keep forgetting that tomorrow is Friday, but I am very glad it is!
Posted by becky at 9:54 PM | Comments (0)
July 30, 2008
Gait retraining, day 1
I did do a "clenched butt" run (as I like to think of what I am supposed to do during these gait retraining runs) today, but not until tonight. My running time only starts at 18 minutes, so my main workout was a trainer ride in the morning. I was a little worried my knee might be sore after yesterday, but I felt fine and actually had more soreness in my "good" knee. Hmm. I watched another "Dexter" and some other less intellectually-stimulating things and the time flew by. When I left my house for work, I was reminded of the benefit of not running outside right now--the humidity was terrible today and the dew point was around 75, which is deemed "extremely uncomfortable" by the experts. Yuck.
Work was hectic today. A colleague and I found out about a meeting we need to attend in Princeton tomorrow so that meant shuffling around some other meetings and calls on the schedule and making train reservations. And I need to go to bed soon because the train is at 7:25 and I would like to get in a (quick!) workout before then. I can make up an hour of sleep or so on the train if all goes well.
So I was unable to convince the powers-that-be at the gym to move a treadmill near a mirror. Like it is an impossible request. So I am doing the butt-clenching and really relying on listening to my body. It feels extremely weird and I must go quite slowly. I just tuned everything else out and focused on clenching my butt and "toeing out" for 15 minutes. I had very little discomfort, so I'll take it. After the "run" I hopped on the bike and then lifted per usual.
Now I must go plan for my early morning workout and travel. Wish me luck in waking up at the crack of dawn...
Posted by becky at 9:22 PM | Comments (0)
July 29, 2008
To another state for my gait
Today was my scheduled appointment at the University of Delaware Running Clinic for my gait analysis. I woke up kind of excited about it. But first I had to do my thing on the bike. I watched another "Dexter"--I am glad I discovered this show--and then last night's "Weeds." I did shorter hill intervals because they bother my knee a little bit. Other than that, not much exciting to report from the basement (I have my own little workout area now that we have more rooms. It is much better than biking in the living room!)
I don't remember if I blogged about my University of Delaware connection or why I contacted the head of the running lab there, but I will repeat myself if so. One of my Cornell teammates (another Becky--there were 4 or 5 of us on the team at one point) got her PhD there recently and I didn't realize that it was less than 100 miles away until recently. After my surgery, I was thinking about the possibility of having my gait analyzed to prevent re-injury, and Becky allowed me to name drop to get into the clinic.
I didn't know what to expect but the first surprise was that there was no traffic and I arrived a half-hour early despite getting off at the wrong exit and having to back-track. I think I just missed the morning rush hour traffic, fine with me. I had three people working with me on the assessment--two students (one of whom overlapped with Becky for about six weeks) and the goddess of gait retraining (just Google her), Irene Davis. First they all listened to my saga and Irene said she thought that my April '07 fall, which led to my first medial knee pain symptoms, caused more damage to the joint than my orthopedic surgeon believed. (Of course, there's no way to know what's right, so this is all conjecture.) But my scars from the fall are definitely in the place where I still have pain, so I'm willing to buy it.
Then they all looked at my orthotics (deemed okay, but probably not super-necessary since I wear super motion-controlled shoes) and the wear patterns on my flip-flops, which I just happened to throw in my bag. I am obviously walking on the outsides of my feet based on the wear (read: holes) in my flip-flops.
Next, they watched me walk and noticed all the weird things about my legs (they were sort of talking amongst themselves using anatomical terms and I know I will get a report, so I am not really sure what they found during this exam). I think it was just confirming my pronation and noting the inward roll of my knees.
Then I got on the treadmill and ran for a bit while being videotaped. We watched it frame by frame and Irene pointed out a few things, the most notable (and memorable) being:
--my hips do not move evenly--my left hip drops down noticeably more than my right one, which stays up.
--I do this weird little whip thing with my right foot when it comes behind me.
--when I bring my right foot up behind my butt, it is crooked, and it is supposed to be straight (it was on the left)
--I am running on the outside of both feet.
There are a couple of things I am supposed to do to "retrain" myself to hopefully correct my stride, which we hope will improve my knee pain. I am skeptical, but willing to try it. They put me on a gait retraining plan which would normally be done IN the lab, but I have to do it on my own since I live two hours away. It is eight runs of increasing time that MUST be done on the treadmill in front of a mirror. The mirror is my "feedback" and I am supposed to gradually decrease the feedback over time so my body remembers not just how it looks to run right, but how it feels. However, finding a mirror-facing treadmill is going to be a challenge. I have already inquired at the gym about moving one and have been met with resistance. This is not good.
In addition to the gait analysis, the team also took a bunch of measurements (hip strength, internal rotation) and gave me a bunch of exercises to do before I run. I need to learn to activate my glutes and strengthen my hips, basically. This will be a challenge but I am willing to try it for now.
On my drive back to D.C., I thought about all the feedback I had gotten and was really glad I made the trip up to UD. I would even do it again if the need arises. I practiced some of the hip and glute exercises at the gym tonight and hopefully they will soon become part of my routine. Thanks to Becky for the suggestion--I look forward to seeing the results.
Posted by becky at 9:19 PM | Comments (2)
July 28, 2008
Staying off the roads, for now
I was going to go for a run today, but I decided that since I am going to be running tomorrow as part of my gait analysis, I should cross train today and tomorrow. So instead of putting on my running clothes, I put on my biking clothes and went downstairs. Time for another episode of "Dexter" and some miles on the bike. Actually, speaking of miles on the bike, I realized recently that part of my odometer (the part that goes on the back wheel) is gone. I should probably look into replacing that little magnet but since I'm mostly on the trainer, I'm not that motivated. It would be awesome to know my RPM/MPH while riding the trainer, but my trainer doesn't do that and I am used to it as it is. In any case, I was aware of my knee pain at some points but it wasn't too uncomfortable--I am just super aware of it.
Today went by pretty quickly for a Monday. I had lots of little tasks to keep me busy. And it wasn't too hot out today (or humid, I should say, since it was probably around 90 degrees) so walking to the gym wasn't too bad for once. When I got there, I ellipticalled while watching TMZ's gossip roundup show on FOX--quite entertaining. Then, of course, I lifted as usual.
I am trying not to be too hopeful about this gait analysis tomorrow but I hope it at least sheds a little light on my continuing knee issues. We will see what happens.
Posted by becky at 10:10 PM | Comments (0)
July 27, 2008
July is almost over
Wow, I can't believe this is the last weekend in July and it is over already. I had a pretty busy day today but nothing too hectic, so that was good. I started out on the bike, doing my usual workout and watching "Dexter" and then this Olympic preview channel that I recently discovered we had. They basically just play the same features over and over, but they are usually inspiring and good to bike to. I don't think I've seen them all yet--today I saw Michael Phelps, Laura Wilkinson, and Ryan Hall. I think these are the kind of stories that NBC will play throughout their coverage of the Olympics and I am getting excited for 8/8/08 (although we are going to be in New Hampshire away from our HD television until 8/11/08; thank goodness for DVR.)
I spent most of the late morning and early afternoon at a baby shower at a coffee shop and then did a couple of errands. Matt and I took a little walk in between thunderstorms and then I just relaxed around the house until our friends came over for dinner. I made a pretty decent Moroccan couscous salad and lemon chicken. It was a nice end to the weekend.
Posted by becky at 10:55 PM | Comments (0)
July 26, 2008
New route, same aches
All things considered, my run didn't go too badly this morning, but my knee bothered me off and on. I took my time getting out the door and although it wasn't super hot out, I got warm quickly and tried my best to avoid the sun. I concocted a loop ahead of time and knew it would be hilly but I wasn't sure just how hilly. Just when I thought to myself, "That wasn't too bad!" I made a turn and realized that the steepest hill was yet to come. But hills take my mind off my knee and force me to slow down and listen to my pounding heart. By the end of the run (very slight downhill) I felt strong and in control. I biked very briefly when I got back and then iced as soon as I was out of the shower.
I spent a solid two hours cleaning the house today, another aerobic activity in itself. But when I have the time to do it, I don't mind. We hung around the house most of the day and I even jumped on the trainer again to watch coverage of this triathlon from back in April that NBC had covered. Then we went to meet another couple at the movies to see "The Dark Knight." I knew I would not be that into the movie because I am generally not an action fan but I do have to admit it was well done. If it hadn't been super hot in the theater, I'm sure I would have enjoyed it even more.
Posted by becky at 11:51 PM | Comments (0)
July 25, 2008
Very glad it's Friday
I got a decent amount of sleep last night and my throat felt better when I woke up--maybe it is allergies? I had a decent workout on the trainer although I got sleepy again after lunch. I really hope to catch up on sleep this weekend, even though I learned in seventh-grade health class that this is not technically possible!
I don't have a lot to report about this morning's workout. I did a bunch of hill intervals while watching "Hopkins" and this week's "Tori and Dean." I think there is only one more "Hopkins" episode left and I'll miss it--I think ABC did a good job with it. Of course, I am not in the medical profession so I'm only commenting from an interested viewer's point of view--I have heard rumblings that "insiders" aren't that impressed.
Although I am generally not a Richard Simmons fan (he actually frightened me as a child), I enjoyed this Washington Post video on his visit to the Hill this week to talk about the importance of physical activity. It's worth a look--it is hilarious: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/video/2008/07/25/VI2008072500916.html
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 10:24 PM | Comments (0)
July 24, 2008
Fading fast
Today was definitely one of those days where I got more and more tired as the hours passed, and now I am doing my best to get into bed earlier than possible. My throat is a little sore so I hope I'm not getting a cold. Anyway, my run this morning wasn't bad. I will write in all caps the day I don't have any pain or discomfort in my knee (the blog equivalent to shouting from the rooftops) but for today, it was manageable. Both the temperature and the humidity were much lower today than they've been in weeks--it made for a much more comfortable run for sure. I did a loop back into D.C. and through some of the neighborhoods near American University and then made my way back to the 'burbs. I've been using my new waterproof iPod holder and so far, so good--although it is a little big. It basically doubles or maybe triples the size and weight of the little iPod shuffle. But hopefully that inconvenience will be worth it.
My tiredness/sleepiness set in right after lunch today, so it was a long afternoon. I was even tired at the gym, which is rare for me--I usually snap out of it once I get moving. I biked and lifted and then headed out, glad it is almost the end of the week!
Posted by becky at 9:23 PM | Comments (0)
July 23, 2008
Broadway biking
This is barely worth blogging about, but...I've given up on being embarrassed by my TV choices while biking. I admit it--I fully enjoyed the finale of the "Legally Blonde" reality show (premise is casting for the Broadway show). I was singing along during my workout--or, at least, humming along as best as I could. I think it's just the fact that it has music and it makes the workout more fun. My knees felt pretty good this morning, too. I had a work happy hour tonight so I biked a little bit longer in the morning than usual.
I guess I don't have anything else workout-related to write about today--it was a light day for me!
Posted by becky at 10:13 PM | Comments (0)
July 22, 2008
Trying not to melt
Our July heatwave--which I suspect is really more like a few degrees above average--continues. I had a run on the schedule so I knew it would be a struggle. Throw some hills in there and I was moving as slow as molasses. But, in the grand scheme of things I didn't feel too bad and was able to focus on picking up my feet and getting in a good stride. Although I was taught long ago not to look down while running, I found myself doing it today to watch my feet a little bit. It could be my perception, but I feel like I am running on the outside of my right foot a lot. Could that be altering my footstrike and bothering my knee? It's something to ask when I have my gait analysis (hopefully next week but that is yet to be confirmed).
I did pretty much the same route this morning as I did on Friday, exploring the hilly neighborhoods just to the west of us. I saw a couple of runners slogging along but mostly people walking their dogs. Otherwise it was nice and quiet out. That aspect of running is something you just can't replicate--feeling like you are one of the first people to enjoy the day. I tried to foam roll a bit when I came home and my knee has been feeling a little sore, but not too terrible.
On my way from work to the gym tonight, I stopped into a running store and finally got a new watch. It's a little different than my old one but I liked it because the numbers seem easier to read. I just keep getting startled when I look at my wrist, but I'm sure I'll get used to it. It was great having my beeping intervals back at the gym--hooray! I also did some biking and lifting, no beeps involved.
Posted by becky at 9:59 PM | Comments (0)
July 21, 2008
Billy Elliott
I had fun this morning on the bike (once I actually felt like I woke up) watching a cute movie from a few years ago about a boy in rural England who discovers that he likes ballet and is good at it--"Billy Elliott." It had good music (not just the classical that usually plays in ballet movies) and I liked it a lot. The only hard part was making out what everyone was saying with their thick accents (and over the noise of the bike). I tried to keep track of my hill intervals as closely as I could but it is so hard to remember to actually look at my watch when I am so used to hearing it beep to signal when my time is up. I tried to pick up a new watch tonight at Modell's but apparently they stopped carrying them. I will check CVS tomorrow.
My grandmother in Boston had a bad fall down a steep flight of stairs in her house on Saturday so we've all been worried and thinking about her. My parents were up there today and called with an encouraging report--she has been in the ICU because the doctors are controlling her pain from a broken shoulder and ribs with an epidural, but it looks like she will get her own room tomorrow and start physical therapy soon too. We haven't been able to talk to her yet but hopefully we will soon.
I was a little held up at work tonight so I was a little rushed at the gym. I ellipticalled a bit and then lifted. I have been thinking and worrying about my knee a lot so it's kind of on my mind especially when I'm using it. I don't want to lose hope but it is hard to forget about how frustrating this has all been when I feel it bothering me so often.
Posted by becky at 10:07 PM | Comments (0)
July 20, 2008
Hottest run so far
Today was a running day and also extremely hot and humid--since my runs don't occur every day, I think I can safely say that this was the hottest one this summer. I didn't really want to run on the CC Trail again, but I knew I would appreciate the water fountain I would pass going out and back. And I definitely did. In addition to the uncomfortable weather, I of course was dealing with my usual knee issues. I feel like I write the same thing over and over, but again, it did feel better as the run went along, like it was loosening up. I also focused on my stride and that always helps. Still, what can I say? It's really depressing to run with pain...again. In fact, I can't really imagine what it would be like to run without pain, and that is really sad.
The not-so-great run today definitely put a damper on my day. But I did have a nice afternoon lunch and shopping expedition with a running friend who I haven't seen in ages. It was great to have some time to fill each other in on what's been going on in our lives (new baby for her, new house for me, etc., etc.). When I came home from our lunch date, I had the house to myself because Matt had gone to the Orioles game. I started reading the paper and soon found myself napping! I woke up when Matt came home and got on the bike for a little bit.
I feel like this weekend sped by. Isn't that always the case...but hopefully this week will bring some cooler--or at least more bearable--weather.
Posted by becky at 9:18 PM | Comments (0)
July 19, 2008
Shop-a-thon
I am always surprised that a day of shopping can make me so tired--but it always does. Maybe I just have to get in shape for it! We spent several hours in the afternoon going to furniture and home stores with Matt's mom since she was in town to give us advice on furnishing our house. We ended up with a dining room table (or, at least an order for one) and tired feet. It was also really, really hot--the car thermometer said 107 after it had been sitting in the sun--so that was draining, too. At least we weren't outside a whole lot.
My day started on the bike, so at least I was in the a/c. I got a new battery in my watch so now it keeps time, but it doesn't make any noise so I can't easily time my intervals. But at least I've got some idea of how long my "work" intervals are. I entertained myself with a bunch of different shows, including the finale of this season of "Real World," which I have done many hours of biking to. I'm sure one of the Real World/Road Rules challenge shows will start up again soon to provide me with even more hours of mindless entertainment. Anyway, my workout felt good and my knee didn't bother me, although it has been a little tender at times walking around today. One day at a time...or more aptly, one workout at a time.
Posted by becky at 10:38 PM | Comments (0)
July 18, 2008
Official Marylanders
I slept terribly last night because my minor neck/shoulder ache got worse--it must have been the way I was lying. I kept trying to get comfortable and nothing worked. I had no idea how I would be able to run in the morning. But, I got up, took Advil, stretched a little, and was off. I did not bring my iPod because I thought it would restrict my head motion even more. The verdict on today's (short) run was--better than the last couple. I explored some of the neighborhoods not too far from us and discovered some great hills. If only I was in shape for hills...but getting off the trail seemed good for my mind today, and hills force me to pick my legs up which in turn lessens my discomfort. It was quite hot even early in the morning, so I worked up quite a sweat without going all that far.
I didn't have very much time to work out because Matt and I had a date at the DMV--or MVA, as it is known in Maryland (why aren't these things standard across the country?). Our car registration for D.C. expired today so we had to bite the bullet and get new registration and new licenses. We got there before it opened and there was already a line outside. But it actually moved quickly and we were out of there in a little more than an hour. Impressive.
The rest of the day went by quickly and now we are awaiting the arrival of this weekend's visitors--Matt's mom and sister. They are waiting to take off at LaGuardia because of "possible thunderstorms." I hope they are looking forward to the scorching temps we are supposed to have this weekend! We will keep them entertained and air-conditioned.
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 8:17 PM | Comments (0)
July 17, 2008
Keeping time
Today was meant to be a running day, but my knee was a little tender when I woke up and I decided that since I've been doing the every-other-day thing for awhile, maybe I should take an extra cross-training day. It's good for me to make these spur-of-the-moment decisions so that I can get practice at not being a slave to my schedule as much.
The one drawback to deciding to ride the trainer this morning was the fact that I woke up with a sore neck. Probably gym related--this seems to happen to me every so often. Biking probably wasn't the best thing for me, but it actually didn't bother me too much. I was most bothered by not having my watch! I brought down our kitchen timer but quickly realized that it would be way too annoying to have to keep resetting it for hill intervals. I just did it based on feel and judging by how tired my legs are today, I did a pretty good job. I watched another "Dexter" episode and then my usual 30 minutes of "junk."
I'm heading out of work a little early to meet up with a couple of friends for a concert at Wolf Trap, a great outdoor venue. It's pretty hot today but I think it will be fairly comfortable once the sun goes down...until then I think we will seek refuge in the shade. This is probably the 20th time I've seen the Indigo Girls in concert, but it's still a thrill every time--I can't wait!
Posted by becky at 4:48 PM | Comments (0)
July 16, 2008
Is it a sign?
My old, reliable running watch just broke in the middle of my ab routine at the gym. I knew it was on its way, but it made me sad. And I have to scramble to see if I can find a spare somewhere. Plus, my running watch IS my watch. I may need to go to Modell's or something during lunch tomorrow. I just hope it isn't a sign that I don't need a running watch anymore!
But luckily that was all the excitement for today and my work day was much less frustrating. Matt came home late from an event last night and then had to be on a 6:57 flight to Newark this morning--needless to say, he was out the door before I was out of bed and on the bike. Biking went well and I watched some more "Weeds" and other DVR'd shows that are embarrassing to admit I like. I am definitely feeling like the bike is riding smoother since that last repair, which is great.
Tonight I was back at the gym, likely my last lifting workout for the week because I have a concert tomorrow night. I tried to fit a little bit extra in to make up for missing tomorrow but eventually I just got hungry and had to head out. But it all went well and I did what I could.
Posted by becky at 10:43 PM | Comments (0)
July 15, 2008
What else is new?
As opposed to yesterday, today was not a slow day. It went by too quickly and there were several frustrating occurrences that I don't feel like re-living right now when I should already be in bed! Frustration was also the name of the game with my run this morning. Basically, I feel stronger and better with each run EXCEPT for my inner knee thing. It's bizarre and it only hurts when running or when I replicate it with a certain way of stepping. I tried to relax and lift my knees more since that helped, and eventually I did start to feel a little better. I picked a direction on the CC Trail that would make it likely that I would see Matt on his walk to work, and it was nice to "run" into him. Of course I complained about my knee when I saw him :) so he must have just loved that! Anyway, the total run time was around the 50 minute mark, just what I've been doing, and although it was not terribly hot, you wouldn't have known it from the amount of sweat dripping off me.
The most frustrating thing about this particular pain is that it is almost exactly what was hurting before the surgery. What's better since the surgery is the back of my knee--it is less stiff and I definitely have more of a range of motion in terms of getting my heel to almost touch my butt when I try. The medial knee pain is obviously not a tear or a structural abnormality or Dr. K. would have seen that. If it is biomechanical, I will hopefully address that soon--I bit the bullet and made an appointment in a few weeks for a gait analysis at the University of Delaware. It's a trek for sure, but this is where a former Cornell teammate just got her PhD in biomechanics and I feel I need to explore this avenue with an expert in the field (my friend's former thesis advisor runs the lab up there).
My eyes are closing so I will just say that I went to the gym tonight to bike and lift and everything was status quo!
Posted by becky at 10:42 PM | Comments (0)
July 14, 2008
A long Monday
Boy, did today go by slowly. Not the workout parts, but the work part. Some Mondays are like that--I was occupied and fairly busy, but I just was in a bit of a fog. My "roommate," otherwise known as my officemate, got into a car accident on the way to work so she was home recuperating from that. I think I work better with company--plus we are friends so it makes it more fun to have her there!
Anyway, back to my morning workout. I was sweating it out on the bike while being entertained by "Dexter" and half of "Real World"--the finale for this season. I did a lot of hill intervals and worked hard. My knees felt pretty strong. I raised the seat a little after having lowered it for outdoor riding last week (I have never been able to do the whole clip-out-and-jump-down thing at all and it severely limits my biking ability) and I think that helped me get more power and be sitting at a more appropriate height. In any case, it was a good workout.
And tonight I tried a new machine at the gym (new to me, anyway) that really works your hamstrings. I only went on for 15 minutes though because it was such hard work that I thought I should ease into it. Then I switched to the bike for a bit and finally did my abs and lifting routine. It was all fine although I was looking forward to getting home because I have been, like I said, kind of tired all day. Hopefully I'll be more awake tomorrow.
Posted by becky at 9:34 PM | Comments (0)
July 13, 2008
Physical evidence
This morning I actually had company on my run--I was very nervous about this prospect but a neighbor (and friend of a friend) emailed to ask me if I wanted to join her for a run on the CC Trail. I had no idea about her pace (nor did she about mine) but it actually worked out fine at the pace I'm at right now. We did an out and back run and chatted almost the whole time. It brought back nice memories of social runs although the inside of my knee was still bothering me a bit. When we stopped for water, I put my leg up to stretch it and we both noticed that it was quite red in the area between the inside of my calf and my knee--sort of near the pes anserine bursa, if I've got my anatomy correct. It wasn't hot to the touch or anything, but it was weird since I do have discomfort in that area. It went away quickly after I got home (I biked a little bit too) but it is something that I will have to keep an eye on.
Matt and I did some around-the-house things for a few hours today and made some progress on things. Then we had to make our weekly pilgrimage to the neighborhood hardware store (hopping on weekends) for various odds and ends. Then there was a trip to the grocery store (me) and some work in the yard (Matt) and finally I was back home and pretty tired. I thought about getting on the bike again, but I got on the couch instead and fell asleep. Guess I needed it.
I made some pretty good gazpacho tonight (if I do say so myself) and served it to my running partner Camille who I haven't seen in ages--she came over for dinner. It was fun to catch up. Now I'm really ready for bed. Here's to another week (almost) in the books!
Posted by becky at 6:59 PM | Comments (0)
July 12, 2008
Sweaty day
I can't believe it's Saturday night already. Where does the weekend go??
I woke up to the sounds of a swim meet happening at the pool in our neighborhood (we will be on the waiting list for a few years) and the little girl next door asking for her mommy. Who knew living in the 'burbs could be so noisy? But it was time to get up anyway. I went downstairs to the bike where I proceeded to watch way too much mindless reality TV ("Tori and Dean", "Real World", etc.). Both of my knees bothered me somewhat when I got out of the saddle to do hills. It felt almost like patellar tendonitis. I felt better as things loosened up and was able to have a pretty good workout.
Matt's dad is in town this weekend so he came over in the early afternoon and we all took a walk to downtown Bethesda on the Capital Crescent Trail. It was probably in the 90s and significantly humid. I brought a little towel and I definitely needed it. All in all, it was a lot of walking around and I was pooped when we got back several hours later. i crashed on the couch for an hour or so and then perked up to make a quick dinner. We have a couple of Netflix that we've been ignoring so I think we will watch one tonight.
Posted by becky at 8:54 PM | Comments (0)
July 11, 2008
A real run, sort of
I just don't know what to think after runs these days. I never feel the same and it's almost never pain-free, yet this is the way my body is now and I am trying to make the best of it. So this morning I headed in the other direction on the Capital Crescent Trail than the way I've been going recently. I felt kind of stiff-legged on the jog over to the entrance to the Trail and the inside of my knees were both a bit achy, but once things started to loosen up, I felt a little better. I stayed on the non-paved shoulder of the trail as much as I could, and was reminded that there is a part of the trail that is unpaved for a good distance (the last time I went that way was during a 22-mile run, I think). I turned around at about 25 minutes or so and headed back, and this man started running right behind me. I mean, right behind me. Eventually he passed me, but then I was right behind him. Whatever--as long as it kept my mind occupied. I decided on a "pure," non-iPod run today, which was kind of refreshing.
When I was almost back, my knees actually felt okay. The rest of the day they've been a bit achy. But not too bad, so I'm pretty happy. I think tomorrow will be a bike day so I'll see how they feel then.
My work day was busy, especially for a Friday when so many people were out of the office! I was anxious to get home and download the new iPhone software, but I've only had a chance to do it now, after a nice dinner in Bethesda with Matt's dad who is in town for the weekend. Matt and I walked all the way back and now I am trying to cool off. It's really not that hot out, but...this is me!
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 11:13 PM | Comments (0)
July 10, 2008
Speeding towards Friday
Well, not speeding, exactly--maybe rolling. It was a relief to be on the trainer this morning without any gear or brake problems. The bike still seems to be making more noise than it did in our apartment, but maybe that's just because it used to be on a wood floor and now it is on a carpet. As long as I can get a workout in, I'm happy. I watched an episode of "Dexter" (still taking advantage of the free Showtime service) and most of "Tori and Dean" from this week--scintillating as always. My legs felt a little tired but nothing too out of the ordinary was going on.
My first stop this morning was the gas station to drop the car off for a Maryland inspection. Now that we are residents (and our DC registration is about to expire anyway) we need to get new licenses and license plates. In Maryland, you have to pass an inspection before you can go to the DMV to get your plates. Unfortunately our car did not pass because of a broken tail light (my fault in our tight parking spot behind our apartment last winter) and we need to pay a few hundred dollars to fix that. Close, but no cigar.
Work went by quickly and I was one of the few at the gym tonight--everyone must have taken advantage of the more comfortable weather and been doing happy hour outside. I sped through my routine, popped into Trader Joe's, and headed home (picking Matt up along the way). Tonight I've been previewing the new iPhone software which will be available starting tomorrow...it claims to fix a few things that bug me about the phone, so I hope it really does.
Posted by becky at 10:25 PM | Comments (0)
July 9, 2008
More tales of my toxic sweat
Although I loathed doing it because it seems counterintuitive, I drove to the gym this morning in order to run on the treadmill. But walking would have required waking up earlier and I chose the extra sleep. Luckily it is easy to find parking early in the morning and it did end up being an efficient way to go. Unfortunately my run did not feel very much better than the last couple of attempts outdoors. But on the treadmill, it is easier to manage my gait and getting up on my toes helps the discomfort in the inside of my knee. And so far, it doesn't get worse during the run or bother me much afterwards (I biked a little at the gym too this morning), so I am pressing on. On an annoying note, I discovered that the last run I did with my iPod damaged it and I now have no way to change the volume. I'm sure it will stop playing soon, too. I just got this one June 13! I cannot find a case for it that keeps out sweat, and I think soon I am going to have to do some serious research on teeny mp3 players that don't get ruined by sweat, even if they aren't actual iPods.
My next toxic sweat incident came later, at the bike store, where I finally brought my broken bike. Turns out it wasn't moving the bike that messed it up; it was my sweat that had caused some part related to the brakes (I am terrible with bike anatomy) to wear out. As usual, the guy seemed skeptical that I hadn't, liked, dunked the bike in a pond or something. ("Really. It just sits in my house.") He did a "quick fix" and also changed out a tube that I must have nicked with my nail when changing a few months ago, because it never worked well, but suggested that I replace some of the other rusted out parts "pretty soon." I was glad to get my buddy back in working order and actually rode it outside for a little bit--to the gym, where I just did a little leg stuff--and then home. I am really not used to riding outside and it takes me awhile before I stop being skittish about other bikers, cars, and everything else I am bound to encounter outside my little trainer bubble. But it was an efficient way to get to and from the gym/work, so it might become a more popular option!
Posted by becky at 8:58 PM | Comments (0)
July 8, 2008
Morning on the bike
I don't have anything too exciting to report today. Got up, got on the bike, and did as much as a workout as I could on a bike with a messed up chain (I just haven't had time to look into it and I may try tonight if I have a few minutes). It is fine except when I get out of the saddle. Not ideal, but at least I got my heart rate up and a decent workout in without leaving the house! Matt has been walking to work as a new workout for him, in case anyone was wondering. In this heat and humidity (and in dress shoes), it's no small feat!
Work was hectic for most of my team today. Not in a bad way, but we were all a little frantic at one time of the day or another. The end of the day snuck up on me and although I was glad to be outside after a day at my desk, the air was not exactly fresh. Yuck. I got very sweaty on my walk to the gym and I read that the "real feel" is supposed to be about 99 tomorrow. I do have a run on the schedule but it will likely be on the treadmill.
The gym was fine tonight--I ellipticalled while watching the local news and then lifted. I tried a few new lower-body things that I can already tell will make me sore!
Posted by becky at 9:40 PM | Comments (1)
July 7, 2008
First day back
It is always difficult to start the work week after some time off, and today was no exception--starting from the first early wake-up time in more than a week. It was sort of dark out, too, because it had rained during the night. I had a combo outside run/trainer ride planned today. I headed out into the humidity and although I was able to run about 40 minutes, it wasn't very comfortable, I'm sorry to say. I am just so frustrated with my knee--it isn't constant pain, it kind of comes and goes, but still. I will do my next few runs on the treadmill again, despite the fact that the whole thing takes so much longer. I was not in a very happy mood when I got back this morning--the combination of a bad run and very, very humid weather was quite off-putting. I got in a short trainer ride and then was quite happy to get in the shower and wash a little of my frustration away (a shower always helps).
I tried to do a lot of stretching and foam rolling this afternoon at the gym to see if I could get my knee feeling a little better. We'll see if it helps. My arms were strangely sore today though I haven't done a lot of lifting during the past few days. I did what I could and then ended up walking home, which ended up being another workout in itself because it is so humid. Oh, well--here's to what I hope will be the longest day of the week!
Posted by becky at 10:15 PM | Comments (0)
July 6, 2008
Back to reality
This last week has seemed really long, because we had so much going on with the move. I can only imagine what it felt like for the track (and swimming) athletes who competed all week long in the biggest races of their lives! We just watched the conclusion of the track trials and although I loved the coverage and was glad to have a "track week" on TV, I am bummed because I know that it's hard to get the same saturation with the Olympics since there are so many events and such a big time difference between the U.S. and Beijing. But I'm sure I'll be tuning in as much as possible.
We both go back to work tomorrow, so I've been kind of dreading getting back into my old routine. But it was another weekend day, so I used the extra time this morning to go to the gym where I ellipticalled and then lifted a little. Nothing too exciting to report. I played around with the elliptical settings a lot because there are so many different levels (incline and resistance)--I prefer the ones with fewer options! I worked out hard enough so that I was out of energy for too much lifting after that.
The rest of the day was errands (Bed, Bath & Beyond for the second time in 4 days) and catching up on email from the past week. I got in a tiny bit of biking but our dinner guests arrived a little early and I had to jump in the shower earlier than expected so it was cut short. All in all it's been a good long weekend and I can only hope that things at work won't be too crazy!
Posted by becky at 10:17 PM | Comments (0)
July 5, 2008
A little exploring
I fell asleep in the middle of the men's 10K last night. Matt woke me up when it was over and I got the gist of it! I've been DVRing everything anyway for cases like that. I wasn't at all surprised that Kara outkicked everyone to win the 5K--I predicted it because despite her success she is always lamenting the fact that she's never won a U.S. title! I am getting a little down that the Trials are almost over, but I guess I have the Olympics to look forward to!
So I finally got a chance to explore my new running options this morning. It was raining so I was psyched--I love running in the rain and it has been forever since I had the chance. I headed to the Capital Crescent Trail, which I've done many, many long runs on, but haven't been to in ages. It is paved but I tried my best to run on the dirt that runs along either side. It got a little muddy and I can't say I didn't have any knee pain, but I got into a groove. I noticed that there was another trail that looked less paved paralleling the CCT so I picked that up after I had turned around. I ended up going a little out of my way but I made it home in one piece and not feeling too terrible. I jumped on the bike for an episode of "Weeds" and my legs were done after that.
It's embarrassing to admit how much that little run took out of me but I have been tired since then and unfortunately have not had time to take a nap. I spent the day doing errands (mostly house-related) and continuing to set things up. It's a good thing we are going back to work on Monday or this could go on forever!
Posted by becky at 8:59 PM | Comments (0)
July 4, 2008
Rainy Fourth
I am always a little down when I can't run races on the two major "race days" of the year--Thanksgiving and the Fourth of July. Ah, well...maybe next year. I spent my morning watching Anna Willard dominate the steeplechase on last night's coverage of the Trials (I made it until about 12:30 and then I just couldn't keep my eyes open). I was biking while I watched, of course, and there was lots more TV after that. Since we just installed cable, we are getting a few free months of Showtime and a few other channels and I am taking full advantage. My knee was a little sore today on the bike and it didn't help that my chain still seems out of whack. I am just hoping that it will get better on its own...but I will probably have to visit the bike store eventually.
We did more unpacking, organizing, and cleaning in the house today. It was one of those days where I blinked and it was 4pm already. We hung out with our neighbors a little in the late afternoon and then we went downtown to watch the Mall fireworks from the roof of a building Matt's company owns. Best view you could ask for and it is nice and quiet. A few friends joined us so it was a good time. It did rain a little, but I didn't mind since it was actually pretty cool out. Another Fourth in the books!
Posted by becky at 11:20 PM | Comments (1)
July 3, 2008
Back online
Wow, today was another long (but productive) day. Although I really should be going to bed soon, I have been in track withdrawal and I am going to try and stay up to watch some of the coverage. I doubt I'll make it all the way through.
Matt and I both had a little trouble sleeping in our new bedroom, but that's to be expected, plus I think we were all keyed up from our eventful day. I headed out to the gym right after I woke up. There is a location about a 12 minute walk away and it was nice to finally walk around the 'hood after doing a lot of driving. The problem with the walk is that there are tons of lights and a lot of closed sidewalks due to construction, so it seems longer than it should. But I arrived at the gym nice and warmed up and hopped on the treadmill. I really didn't know what to expect today since my legs/knees took a beating yesterday. But I stretched a lot and the run went well--40 minutes straight and I was pretty comfortable (as my runs these days go). Still slow, but I'll take it. I biked a little bit and then lifted after that, and then jogged slowly home (mostly downhill). It was a good workout for me today.
We were graced with visits from Verizon (phone, internet and cable installation) and a security company salesman during the day today and I continued to unpack while things were going on around me. Matt had comp tickets to a big golf tournament near here and needed a ride, so I dropped him off and then headed off to Bed, Bath & Beyond. I had a serious headache when I was done there and I already know I have to go back for some returns.
I had a little time to set up my trainer in the basement today and ride a little this afternoon. I think my bike got a little knocked around because it is making strange noises. I need to play with the gears to figure out what happened and hopefully this isn't something I'll need to go to the bike store for (I am clueless when it comes to bike problems). The last thing I need is another credit card bill right now!
Posted by becky at 10:33 PM | Comments (0)
July 2, 2008
New digs
Today was a very long day! I barely had time to do any biking but I did get in a quick trainer ride before the movers arrived but I was pretty much on the go all day long. And my knee is definitely feeling the effects of walking up and down our building stairs a million times. But on the bright side, all went well with the move and we have even done some unpacking and eaten our first cooked meal in the house. (pasta was about all I had the energy for.) We have also met almost all our neighbors on our block already--it is an amazingly friendly crowd. Here's to more manual labor and setting up house tomorrow!
Posted by becky at 11:05 PM | Comments (0)
July 1, 2008
Manual labor
I couldn't help myself and I stayed up late again watching the Trials coverage. It was worth it though to see a few great finishes! And since we are doing move stuff this week and not working, the timing couldn't be better. We did have a lot on the agenda today, though, so it wasn't good that I woke up late. Not too late, but later than I wanted. I knew I'd only have time for one workout today, so I went to the gym and made the most of it. I ran for 35 minutes on the treadmill, and I definitely had a few aches and pains but the surface is better. My biggest complaint today was the area where the inner part of the hamstring attaches to the knee...it's kind of hard to explain but I am pretty sure it is muscle tightness because I can get at it with the foam roller, and it kills when I get the right spot. So after I got off the treadmill and before I got on the elliptical, I did some foam rolling in the hopes of calming that down. And after I ellipticalled, I lifted a little. A good effort especially for not having a whole lot of time.
We spent most of the day over at the new house doing some serious cleaning. The owners left it in good condition, but I wanted to get it as clean as possible before we move our stuff in tomorrow. I did toilets, the refrigerator, dusting, windows, etc. As much as I could stand. And Matt helped too, with the vacuuming and swiffering. We made a good team.
By the time we got home, it was almost 6pm and we got to work on finishing packing. We're pretty much ready now for the movers to come in the morning and we are excited. Our internet isn't being installed until Thursday, so I might not be able to blog tomorrow. Never fear, though, my iPhone will probably come through in a pinch!
Posted by becky at 10:08 PM | Comments (0)