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January 31, 2009
Testing, testing...
I was definitely happy to be able to sleep in this morning. I knew I had a lot to get done so I didn't stay in bed as long as I could have, but I at least felt well-rested when I woke up. Today was the day I had designated to try out a little running to see how my Achilles/calf would respond. I didn't expect too much and I'm not sure how to assess my mile or so of jogging. It was cold--I should have been smart and looked at the forecast as it is supposed to be in the 50s tomorrow--but I taped my Achilles and wore pants so I don't think that was a factor. I walked for a few minutes and then ran 5 pain-free minutes: very exciting! However, after I started up again following a 3-minute walking break, I had a little discomfort. But my plan was only to do 2 or 3 of those 5-minute intervals anyway. I arrived home with a little more discomfort than I had when I left, but if I look on the bright side this time was not as bad as the last couple of trial runs. So I'm not sure what to think.
The rest of my workout was done on the bike. I was psyched to watch the (crappy ESPN) broadcast of the Millrose Games and I didn't know any of the results. Except for the annoying and incorrect commentary ("Shayne Culpepper is coming back from having her second child") I enjoyed watching it. Kara Goucher ran well and the high school miles were impressive as always. Someday I will make it to MSG for the meet! Matt actually used to go regularly with his dad growing up and we have been meaning to go for years.
My Achilles felt the same as it does usually on the bike so I don't think the few minutes of running impacted me too much--I was glad. It didn't bother me too much during the day either.
Tonight we had dinner with two of my friends from work and their husbands. Everyone brought their kids and they all played together--it was cute!
Posted by becky at 10:19 PM | Comments (0)
January 30, 2009
This week felt long
I didn't have any early-morning work commitments this morning so I let myself sleep a few minutes longer than usual--it was nice. It was also nice to note that when I woke up, I could actually breathe out of my nose again. I think this cold is on its way to being gone and it wasn't even around all that long.
I occupied myself on the bike today with "House" and a silly MTV show. It's great to have this stuff DVR'd but I am always annoyed with having to fast forward through the commercials. My calf/Achilles tenderness did develop a few minutes into the ride but it tends to loosen up as time goes on (whereas it used to be constant) so I'm taking that as a positive sign. I also neglected to tape this morning although I'm not sure exactly how much difference that made.
Work was quieter today, which was welcomed after a busy rest of the week. Matt came back this morning and we reunited at Chipotle where we were both grabbing lunch (it was planned). I went to the gym after work, unusual for a Friday but my schedule was weird this week. It was nice and empty and I just rode the stationary bike and then did a very minimal amount of lifting.
I DVR'd the Millrose Games and look forward to watching them on the bike in the morning so I am avoiding all of my usual running Web sites tonight in order to be surprised!
Happy Friday to all!
Posted by becky at 10:10 PM | Comments (0)
January 29, 2009
Slacker week
Today was another schedule-dictated one-workout day, but I tried to make the most of it. I dragged myself out of bed around 5 and went to the gym so that I could at least get a little lifting in. I was still all stuffed up when I woke up and I was really fighting the instinct to just pull the covers over my head and go back to bed. But, I knew I'd feel better after working out so I got ready to go.
I actually felt like I got to the gym early enough to have a quality workout. I started out on the elliptical and felt really good so I stayed on there for an hour and then switched to the spin bike for a bit. I even brought my bike shoes so I could clip in. I had no Achilles issues on the elliptical but I did have some lingering calf tightness on the bike, and I wasn't on there for very long.
After that I did my ab routine and got in probably 3/4 of my usual afternoon lifting, and still made it on time to work. I was very proud of myself although I knew I would be tired later in the day.
But work was busy as usual and I didn't feel too bad. My cold really did improve after working out and my head is much less stuffy now. Tonight my co-workers and I went out for happy hour to say goodbye to one of our colleagues who is a telecommuter but has been in town for the last few weeks. I did start to feel tired toward the end of the evening and I hope to be in bed shortly.
Posted by becky at 6:08 PM | Comments (0)
January 28, 2009
Busy week
I forgot to mention yesterday that I had another acupuncture session--and one more scheduled for tomorrow. She's been massaging the Achilles a bit after the treatment now, which I like. It isn't sore to the touch (anymore) although this time around she put two needles right into the most tender part--eew! Even though they didn't hurt when they were in, I was squeamish about the thought of it.
As for today, all I had time for was a (longish) trainer ride in the morning. My cold is out in full force and I am glad no one else had to see my nose running all over me. (At least some part of me is running.) I don't feel too terrible, just congested, and working out generally helps. I was bummed to finish Season 2 of "30 Rock" but I did find a treat on the DVD: a recording of the live, staged episode reading the cast did in New York during the writers' strike last year. It was awesome and I am glad I thought to check the bonus features!
Tonight I had a meeting downtown and then a friend of mine (also at the meeting) and I went to grab a bite to eat. I got something on the spicy side so I could actually have a chance at tasting some of it. Matt is in New York until Friday so I am doing my chores around the house and then heading to bed in the hopes that I can will myself to get to the gym early tomorrow morning...I am hopeful but a little skeptical.
Posted by becky at 10:11 PM | Comments (0)
January 27, 2009
Snow!
It was only snowing lightly when we woke up today but Matt was already excited. We are northerners at heart (although even I would be tired by now with the amount of snow New England has gotten this winter). Things ended up getting messier and icier as the day went on, but the region apparently got more snow (just a few inches) than has been the case in several years! Contrary to my parents' belief that Washington is "always warm," we've been below normal in terms of snow for about four years if I am remembering the article I read correctly.
But of course I didn't get to go out and enjoy the white fluffy stuff first thing in the morning because I was on the bike. But my Achilles was feeling pretty good, so I can't complain too much. It was another "30 Rock" (one more episode left!) and "ER" day, a study in opposites. Both were enjoyable.
My cold was feeling better today during the day but after a short elliptical workout and some lifting tonight, I got all stuffed up again. Going to bed early would have been a good plan but it is already almost 11. I am not doing well on that front this week and it is only Tuesday...
Posted by becky at 10:18 PM | Comments (0)
January 26, 2009
Making progress (I hope)
I was glad that my cold didn't seem too much worse when I woke up, but I could have used a couple of additional hours of sleep. The weekends (i.e. my chance to catch up on sleep) seem to go by way too fast.
Anyway...I made it out of bed and downstairs to the bike eventually. I have only a couple more episodes of "30 Rock" before Season 2 is finished and I have to wait for the current season to come out on DVD (or watch some of them online). I watched one episode this morning, finished "Real World" from this past week and then watched "House," which I guess hasn't been on in ages. I decided to do shorter intervals since my IT bands have both been tight from endless pedaling. My Achilles was less sore today than it's been in a long time, I'm happy to report.
Work was extremely busy today and before I knew it the day was over and I was headed to the gym. My Achilles was still feeling okay so I incorporated a few sets of heel raises into my lifting routine. I know there are mixed reviews on whether heel raises are good for strengthening the Achilles (or at least the tendons around the Achilles) but I usually do well with those types of things. So I gave it a whirl.
It's almost past my bedtime already. Night!
Posted by becky at 10:09 PM | Comments (0)
January 25, 2009
Tired of the bike
I could have of course gone to the gym this morning to find a different kind of cross-training workout, but I didn't feel going out of my way and I trudged downstairs to my bike. I think it needs a tune up and I'm just tired of doing the same thing day after day with no end in sight...but I feel better doing a trainer ride than nothing at all, of course. Actually, my Achilles is feeling a lot better--I'm not really feeling it walking around and there's no real bump anymore. On the bike, it has been consistently sore (i.e. sore at the same level each day). But every time I have felt like this in the past few weeks and tried running, the pain has come back with a vengeance. So I'm waiting it out and I don't like it.
I was thinking of finding another movie this morning to watch but I just did my usual "30 Rock" and DVR'd shows medley. I am not enthralled with "Real World" this season but of course I keep watching it.
My throat has been hurting me all day today and I'm a little congested so I think I might be getting a cold. I am self-medicating with Advil and Vitamin C so hopefully it doesn't turn into much more. I didn't do too much else in the way of exercise today except for some push-ups and abs when I was feeling antsy in the late afternoon. Here's to the start of another week!
Posted by becky at 5:23 PM | Comments (0)
January 24, 2009
Smart People
Matt and I just returned home from a fun afternoon/evening of seeing a roller derby show (if that is the right word) followed by dinner with friends. None of us had ever been to see the DC Roller Girls but it was certainly entertaining! We didn't know what to expect but the league has a sizable following and the DC Armory was packed! We were on the floor in front of the action which was neat but not so great on my old, arthritic knees.
I slept in today which was very nice and then got on the bike for about 100 minutes. (Nothing much for all you hard-core triathletes but my butt was not enjoying it anymore by that point!) I found a movie available for free On Demand that looked decent--"Smart People" with Dennis Quaid and Sarah Jessica Parker. It was fairly decent and just about the right length.
It is way past my bedtime, even for a weekend. Good night!
Posted by becky at 11:42 PM | Comments (0)
January 23, 2009
Friday
I shouldn't have been so glad that today was Friday considering my short week, but I was. What can I say? It's always nice to know you don't have to go to work tomorrow, no matter when tomorrow is. In any case, I found myself on the bike this morning--what a shock. My Achilles still feels sore on the bike and doesn't get worse throughout, but I know that I really can't try to run again until I don't really notice it on the bike. It's definitely manageable though and as we all know, riding my trainer is my exercise of choice these days. My left knee was actually a little sore today for some reason too so I tried to just take it easy and not do too many hard/out of the saddle intervals. I watched some "30 Rock" and last night's "Grey's." I was thinking about giving up Grey's after last week's episode, but this one was a little better. It's hard to give up on a show when you don't delete it from your DVR schedule!
That's all I've got to report for today--we're home after going out for Vietnamese food and just chilling. Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 10:04 PM | Comments (0)
January 22, 2009
Pins and needles
Not that I've been spending a whole lot of time outside, but tomorrow is going to feel positively balmy with highs forecasted in the mid-50s after a string of days in the 20s and 30s. Good thing I don't have to worry about adapting my workout wardrobe for the weather as I continue to be inside on the trainer. These trainer rides blend together after a while and I can't really remember anything too exciting about today. I know I did shorter intervals than I have been doing and my Achilles was a bit achy but an improvement over yesterday (because it is further away from the last time I ran, I think). I am still getting through my "30 Rock" DVD and laughing all the way.
I had my second acupuncture treatment mid-day today. The needles hurt more going in this time for some reason--I guess it just depends on the spot. I showed her the bump/swelling on the back of the Achilles so I hope she focused on that. It is better today anyway but you can still feel it. I kept falling asleep during the treatment (I just lie there with a heat lamp on the needles) and would jerk my leg as I drifted off to dreamland--a good reminder that I was supposed to be still because it was like a jolt of pain!
I hope the acupuncture is helping. I'll go back again next week. My leg actually felt okay biking and lifting at the gym tonight but I wouldn't be shocked if that was psychosomatic. I guess that would be okay too. We shall see.
Posted by becky at 9:34 PM | Comments (0)
January 21, 2009
At least it's Wednesday
Today felt like Monday since I had the past couple of days off, so I was glad to remind myself that it is actually the middle of the week! I had a very hard time getting out of bed and left myself barely enough time to get in a trainer ride. My Achilles was sore just getting out of bed, which I suppose is punishment for trying to run yesterday. It wasn't too bad on the bike but noticeable at times so of course that is beyond frustrating. I have been looking back in my blog and log from last time I had this and I was frustrated then too--but I figured this one would heal quicker since it was never as swollen or creaky as the first time I had it (when I did track workouts on it and everything). I guess not.
It was the out-of-the-saddle position that seemed to bother my Achilles most today so I tried to respect my body and stay seated as much as possible. I was laughing out loud at "30 Rock" today and then totally changed the mood with "ER." I just heard that George Clooney finally agreed to film some scenes for the last episode of "ER" and I am psyched about that. I think it is tons better than "Grey's" (although "Grey's" is more of a comedy, I guess) and I wish more people realized that so it would stay on the air.
I was struggling at the end of the day today--just tired I think from getting back to the grind after that super-long weekend. I found an elliptical position that is more comfortable for my knee so I did that for a bit and then abs, stretching and just very light lifting. I am ready for bed!
Posted by becky at 10:04 PM | Comments (0)
January 20, 2009
Quiet Inaugural day
Most of the people I've talked to today who went down to the Mall had surprisingly hassle-free experiences, but with all the hype, Matt and I thought it would be best to avoid the craziness in case we got stuck downtown. (Plus, Matt did not have the day off like I did.) Who knows what it would have been like getting back home, but I made sure to catch most of the Inauguration coverage on TV.
But before the coverage started, I was of course working out. My Achilles hadn't been bothering me walking around--not even much going down stairs--so I thought I was due for another run/jog. It was really cold again so I taped up and hoped for the best on a little out-and-back bike path run. Unfortunately it wasn't so great--a low-grade ache that set in after about 5 minutes of running. Once my legs warmed up again it didn't feel too terrible, but it was noticeable. I biked for about an hour and watched the pre-Inauguration stuff, getting my first glimpse at the more than a million people packed into the Mall. I was excited about the day's events but of course bummed about my Achilles (what else is new?)
Somehow sitting on the couch watching TV (with a quick trip to Whole Foods in there somewhere) ended up occupying several hours of my day. I biked at the gym while watching a bit of the parade and then moped around lifting/thinking about my Achilles. I'll probably snap out of it tomorrow, at least temporarily.
Welcome to the Obama era!
Posted by becky at 9:46 PM | Comments (0)
January 19, 2009
Acupunctured
Today was Day 1 of my extra two days off this weekend. I didn't really get up too much later than normal though because I had made an acupuncture appointment for mid-morning. I had it done once before, the last time I had an Achilles injury, and although I can't be sure that was the key to healing, I think it helped. It is almost fully covered by my insurance so I thought it couldn't hurt.
But before that, I found myself having a reunion with my bike and my "shows." For some reason today I was thinking about how much smoother a ride the spin bike is compared to the trainer, but I can't complain too much. I rode for just short of 90 minutes (I was getting short on time) and did intervals of 2:30 out of the saddle. My Achilles actually didn't feel too bad and I remembered to tape it.
On to the acupuncture. I liked the acupuncturist a lot and the office is a five-minute walk from work. She did an hour of treatment (most of it is just lying there with the needles in) and said I should come back three more times during the next couple of weeks. I am willing to try almost anything so we'll see how it goes.
We had dinner plans tonight with Matt's aunt and uncle who are in town for the Inaugural fun (they actually have tickets to the ceremony and to a ball) so I went to the gym before that. It was really crowded because everyone had the day off, I guess. I had my Achilles taped and three or four people were like, "What is that on your leg?" and really wanted to talk about kinesio tape. I was happy to oblige but it is not really all that interesting!
Posted by becky at 10:17 PM | Comments (0)
January 18, 2009
Family gym time
Wow! Inauguration Fever is officially on in D.C. I just arrived back tonight and am kind of regretting not having gotten back in time to go to the We Are One concert on the Mall. I watched it with my dad and we were both really moved but tonight we hung out with friends who had all been down there and it sounded awesome. Oh, well--at least I can hear the stories.
Today's workout ended up being in the middle of the day because we woke up to a mini-snowstorm. I was happy to experience at least one snowstorm this winter until I was asked to shovel the driveway. I considered it a warmup to my workout and it definitely was--I think my back will be sore tomorrow.
My parents also wanted to go to the gym so we all went together. I spent about half my time on the elliptical (they have the older models that don't bother my knee) and half on the spin bike (in an otherwise-empty spin studio). I again didn't have time to lift but judging by how sweaty I was, I think it was a good effort.
Since we got a late start with the snow, we didn't have too much time for anything else except watching the concert and then heading to the airport. I went straight from the airport to a friend's house for dinner and then Matt met us all a couple hours later after he was done with another event. Hooray for three--or in my case four--day weekends!
Posted by becky at 11:18 PM | Comments (0)
January 17, 2009
Different state, same gym
One of the nice things about having a Washington Sports Club membership is being able to use the gyms in New York, Boston, etc. on the weekend. There is a newish one about a five minute drive from my parents' house which is very convenient. I think I went there back in August last time I was here and was there again today. I didn't have as much time as I had hoped (because I didn't get up as early as I intended), but I managed to get in a decent workout.
First I ran for about 30 minutes on the treadmill and then I swtiched to the spin bike, which was unfortunately situated right next to a frequently-used water fountain so I felt like people were swarming around me. I taped my Achilles and I think that was probably one reason the run went okay. I can't say it was pain-free--and I was certainly going super-slow--but it felt more like the run on Monday when I was encouraged than the run on Wednesday when I was discouraged, if that makes any sense. I sort of think of my discomfort level as a range from 1-10 and I think it was a 2-3 today. The remaining pain is again very low down near my heel and less diffuse. I did not have any discomfort on the bike and actually worked really hard for as long as I could until my chariot (i.e. my mom) arrived to pick me up.
The rest of the day was a lot of fun. We picked up my sister and two of the other bridesmaids at the train station (one was our cousin) and met everyone else at the same store where I got my bridal gown and bridesmaid dresses. My sister's requirement was that everyone picked a black dress, but we were all able to find a style that suited us specifically. I think everyone ended up with a dress that works well and will be fun to wear (potentially after the wedding too). After the dress shopping, we all went to lunch. A nice girls' day.
We spent the rest of the afternoon with my grandmother who came up for a few hours and then joined us for dinner. It is always fun to be together (although without Matt this time) so we enjoyed ourselves. I keep wondering what is happening back in D.C. with all the Inauguration festivities but I'm sure I'll find out soon enough!
Posted by becky at 9:31 PM | Comments (0)
January 16, 2009
Flying Friday
I guess there are still a few more hours left in the day, but today has definitely flown by. I managed to get up almost on time to be able to fit in 75 minutes or so on the trainer and still get to work in time for a call. It was, as every Washingtonian knows, the coldest day in 5 years so it was definitely not a pleasant day to be outside and I tried to remember that as I worked hard on the bike. My Achilles bothered me less than it had the past couple of days and only very, very low, close to my heel. I did remember to tape today and I am going to try and continue that because I think it does add a little bit of support. (In case you are wondering, I watched "30 Rock," "Real World" and "The Office.")
I was really busy at work today and left the office around 3 to go to the airport. I am in Westchester for the weekend for some family time (just me this time, Matt is holding down the fort) including a bridal luncheon for my sister. I must say that even though I'm not a nervous flyer, I did think twice about being in the emergency exit row today after yesterday's crazy Hudson River landing. But I just figured the odds were on my side that lightning wouldn't strike twice.
As I was waiting for my plane, my friend texted me to say that the woman I mentioned a couple of days ago had passed away. I am glad that she isn't suffering anymore but it is really a tragic ending to a life much too short. On that note I am going to try and enjoy the time with my family even more so this weekend and I encourage all of you to do the same.
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 8:08 PM | Comments (0)
January 15, 2009
Baby, it's cold outside
Another hard-core-runners-only day spent inside on the bike. (looks like tomorrow will be the same way.) I'm sure we dealt with temps like this every week when we lived in Boston, but my Achilles is definitely not up for it these days. Besides, I had "90210" to finish and Season 2 of "30 Rock" to start. My Achilles hurt on and off, probably because I am subconsciously changing my foot position in the pedal to protect it. I have now progressed to the point where my formerly "longer" intervals are the norm, so I guess I am spending more time out of the saddle.
Today was one of those days at work where everything started out quiet and then things went crazy after lunch. I am learning more and more about the intersection of public health and policy because this is the first time in my career that Capitol Hill and the Administration actually care about health and prevention. Pretty neat.
The gym was empty tonight. Maybe people are hibernating. I am waiting in the car for Matt and making a mental list of things I need to do tonight..I am not sure I will get to all of them but I will do my best.
Posted by becky at 8:10 PM | Comments (0)
January 14, 2009
Sick of me
I am tired of having to write this over and over, but I must report that my Achilles acted up again this morning. It really wasn't too bad, and it might have been partially due to the cold (it was in the 20s when I was out) but it was definitely more noticeable than Monday. I was bummed for sure. And it was pretty chilly, so I can't even say I enjoyed the run all that much besides the Achilles stuff. At least I was good and just did the same (30 minutes or so) that I did the last time out. I also made sure to tape today but it didn't seem to make a difference.
I came home and biked for all I had time for, which was only another 30 minutes or so because I had an appointment to get to. I was glad to note that my Achilles did not bother me post-run on the bike. I didn't do too much more than spin my wheels (literally) but I caught up on "90210". At least I accomplished something! (And I was thinking this morning that I should remember that I am lucky to have a trainer to work out on when I'm not running much--it makes supplementing running with biking pretty easy.)
My neck and shoulders were pretty sore today from (I think) the past two days of lifting so I took it easy at the gym tonight and did a longer cardio workout (bike and elliptical combo) and then a lot of abs and foam rolling. There was an obvious runner on the mat next to me--he used the foam roller for a good 30 minutes. I'm not that patient.
The big news here (besides the Inauguration of course) is the cold. Too bad we can't get some snow to go along with it! Stay warm, everyone!
Posted by becky at 9:49 PM | Comments (1)
January 13, 2009
All about the bike
Today was another day on the trainer for me. I really should have taped my Achilles because it I think I can tell the difference--it just felt a little more sore today--but I was rushing around as usual and skipped it. Once I got going everything warmed up, but the first few minutes were sort of ugly. In addition to my sore Achilles, my left knee was sore, but it loosened up pretty quickly. I did a bunch of 2:30 out-of-the-saddle intervals.
I know all my loyal readers want to know what was on the entertainment agenda today. Unfortunately I didn't have much and my two Monday night MTV shows are only about 30 minutes combined without commercials. I had to fill the remainder of the time with channel-flipping. Not my favorite but my "30 Rock" DVD is due to arrive tomorrow.
Work was blissfully quiet today and I had the opportunity to catch up on a few things. Not surprisingly, there is lots of talk "at the water cooler" (and in the papers, and on TV...) about everyone's plans for Inauguration next Tuesday. Our office will be closed but I don't think we will be venturing downtown unless we somehow secure a ticket at the last minute. I have thought many times in the past few days about how awesome it would be to just go for a run to take the pulse of the city that morning, but the timing isn't right. Someone else should do it for me and report back.
I did my thing at the gym tonight and everything was fine, but I was a little distracted by the news I had gotten earlier that afternoon about a woman I met only briefly when I was working at Georgetown. She successfully battled breast cancer about five years ago and got really involved with a neat program at Georgetown that helps cancer patients and their families by providing them with opportunities to be creative (i.e. music programs, writing workshops, artists-in-residence, etc.) because of her own musical background. Unfortunately her cancer recurred this summer and she is terminal. This would be devastating anyway, but she has three young children so the whole thing is just beyond awful. Anyway--she was in my thoughts as I went through the motions at the gym and I wish her family strength and peace right now as they go through this trying time.
Posted by becky at 10:07 PM | Comments (0)
January 12, 2009
Dancing in the dark
OK, I wasn't dancing, I was running--or jogging, I guess--but today was the first time in a very long while that I've been out in the morning when it was still dark. I'm now attempting to do a little bit of running every other day or so and because I still need to supplement with biking, I have to get started on the early side. But as long as I am able to increase the running time and decrease the biking time, I don't mind at all.
I was pretty encouraged by the run today. I pretty much just went out and back on the (unlit!) Capital Crescent to make it simple and eliminate any big hills. My Achilles was sore, but better than the last time I ran. And I noticed I wasn't thinking about it as much--that is always a good sign because if I am running on an injury I know I shouldn't be running on, I cannot tune out the negative thoughts. I did about 4 minutes more than I did on Sat.--I am being very conservative here.
I pretty much jumped right on the bike when I got back. I was torn between finishing "Reign Over Me" and watching the rest of the Golden Globes from last night. I didn't have time to do both. I chose the GGs because I knew I'd read about what happened once I got to work. It was great to be able to fast-forward through most of it and just catch the highlights.
I was pleased with my effort and then it was off to another busy day at work. I lifted tonight and tried a few new things that I have observed the trainers demonstrating over the past couple of weeks. I'm never sure if I am doing things right, but I know I need to mix up my boring old routine so anything different is good.
Posted by becky at 10:05 PM | Comments (0)
January 11, 2009
Fun on Sunday
How can the weekend be over already? I guess there's still the Golden Globes tonight, but I think it will be more efficient to watch them while I'm biking tomorrow. But it's been a relaxing couple of days so I can't complain too much.
I stayed up late enough last night so that it was tough to get out of bed until about 9am. I decided to be extra efficient and self-clean the oven and do a load of laundry while I was biking. I watched the last few minutes of yesterday's movie, "Music and Lyrics," and then started another one available for free On Demand, "Reign Over Me." So far it is okay--pretty depressing though as it is about a man who loses his family in 9/11. And Adam Sandler plays the guy--very unlike his usual role.
That was my movie review, and my workout review isn't much more interesting. I didn't tape my Achilles today and I couldn't really tell if it made a difference. I had a little discomfort but nothing too bad. I did 2:30 intervals out of the saddle until my legs were really tired (a very scientific workout).
Matt suggested that we go to the Leesburg outlets today (about 40 minutes away). He is not a big shopper but he had a good coupon to the Kenneth Cole store. He ended up finding some really great stuff (shoes, a raincoat, socks, etc.) and came away with a lot of new clothes. As for me, I got a pot in Crate & Barrel and a couple of shirts at Nike (technical ones).
It had been a long time since I spent several hours shopping. I was beat when we got home! I miss the weekends of being tired because of spending several hours working out, but what can you do? It was a fun afternoon and that is what I need to remember.
Here's to the next week!
Posted by becky at 7:10 PM | Comments (0)
January 10, 2009
You gotta try
I've "tested out" my various injured body parts on a run so many times in the past few years, and I still have a hard time evaluating the effort. Today I jogged (emphasis on jog) for about 30 minutes in order to assess how my Achilles was doing. I taped it first with kinesio-tape although I'm not sure if it helped or not. The best scenario would be if it was completely pain-free, but I know from experience with my knee that there are some aches you can run through and they still continue to heal. With the Achilles, I think there is some of that but people always say that "complete rest" is the way to go. We all know that I am not one for resting, so it's a question of whether running feels worse than biking.
My conclusion after today was that it feels about the same during a run and while I'm riding my trainer--kind of achy but not any sharp pain. It was pretty chilly this morning too, and I kept thinking that my Achilles felt similar while running to the way it feels after I ice it. So something stiffened it up--whether the cold or the pounding or both.
I hopped on the bike when I got home and watched most of a Drew Barrymore movie from a few years ago, "Music and Lyrics." Nothing too great but watchable. I'm not even sure how long I was on my trainer because I never started my watch. I was worried how my Achilles would feel after I got off but it wasn't too bad and I massaged it and used the foam roller and it was okay the rest of the day.
I'm not sure where the rest of today went. I did some things around the house, went to get a manicure and went grocery shopping while Matt was at the office doing some work. It's kind of icy/rainy outside (apparently the "snow line" is just a few miles to our north) so it is a perfect night to stay in and watch a movie, which we plan to do!
Posted by becky at 7:59 PM | Comments (0)
January 9, 2009
Stressful Friday
Today ended up being a pretty stress-filled day, but it started out all right. I taped my Achilles using kinesio tape for the first time and I'm not sure how much it helped, but it is definitely gentler and stretchier than regular tape. I would like to try a short run tomorrow or Sunday so I'll give it the real test then.
I didn't have very much in the way of TV options this morning, so my trainer ride was pretty boring. After "ER" (quick without the commercials) it was mostly channel surfing. I did the longer intervals again and had a more Achilles tightness than soreness. Nothing else too exciting to report.
Matt and I met right after work for a quick bite and then we went to see "The Wrestler," something that Matt has been wanting to see since it opened. It was really good but very sad/heavy.
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 10:38 PM | Comments (0)
January 8, 2009
Almost the end of the week
I want to start today's blog entry with a quote from Lauren Fleshman, my favorite runner (who watches over me from a poster as I sweat it out every day on the bike). Trackshark.com posted an interview with her today in which she updated her fans on her recent foot injury and plans for 2009. "I desperately miss running...it's my best friend," she so eloquently said about her current state of mind (she is healing from a stress fracture). I loved the quote as soon as I read it--I can completely identify with her emotions if not her ability!
It finally stopped raining sometime during the night even though I wasn't headed outside when I woke up. My Achilles improvement continues and I continue to behave and spend time on the bike. I am really hopeful that I will be able to try a little running this weekend, but we'll see. Today I did longer "hill" intervals to just change up the workout since I've been in a rut. I got to watch some real brain candy--"90210" and the new season of "Real World" (yes, I still watch it). The workout actually went by really quickly and I felt pretty good.
Today was one of those days at work when I did not leave my desk except to go to the bathroom and a staff meeting. I really like to get just a little fresh air but it wasn't meant to be today. By the time 5:30 rolled around I was itching to get to the gym. It was pretty quiet, I think because of tonight's BCS Championship game, but I didn't mind. I got through what I needed to and then it was home to meet up with Matt for dinner--he just got back from his most recent trip.
Posted by becky at 12:29 PM | Comments (0)
January 7, 2009
Wet Wednesday
I had a good day today, and a fun dinner with a friend tonight, but I would be lying if I didn't say that I wished I could have been hard core and run in the 40-degree rain today. I probably notice more runners than the normal person, but I felt a pang every time I saw one today because the "old me" would have enjoyed running in those conditions. Ah, well.
It was pouring when I went to sleep and pouring when I woke up. I think I am almost ready to add some running back into the mix but my Achilles is still sore on stairs so I really don't want to set myself back again if I can help it. I tried taping my Achilles today (kinseo-tape is on the way but this was just regular old tape) and I guess it helped while I was biking. Hopefully the kinseo-tape will provide better support and less pulling, which bothered me. I am getting kind of bored of my biking workouts--and lack of anything good to watch--so I think I need to be more inventive with my intervals. I knew it would be really tough to get a PM workout in today so I biked for a bit longer than usual.
Work was and will continue to be busy and somewhat stressful for the rest of the week and probably longer! But it's generally a good kind of stress so I can't complain too much. Plus we have a four-day weekend right around the corner (MLK Day followed by Inauguration Day).
It was probably a good thing that I didn't lift today as I was pretty sore from the past couple of days. I did come home briefly before going out again tonight and did a modified ab routine.
I am getting excited for the USATF XC Championships in February which will be held "up county" from where I live (I think less than a 30-minute drive). I have not had the chance to watch any big running events since the Olympic Marathon Trials and rarely do the big names in running come to Maryland. Anyone want to join me?
Posted by becky at 10:26 PM | Comments (0)
January 6, 2009
Getting back on schedule
I had such a hard time getting up this morning. I stayed up late reading Runner's World and then couldn't fall asleep for a little while. Generally it is impossible for me to stay up late reading anything because I nod off after about ten minutes, so I think my body is still adjusting to the post-vacation work schedule. Luckily my commute downstairs to the bike was quick so I managed to get in a decent trainer ride (season finale of "Dexter" and the rest of that behind-the-scenes "Real World" show). My Achilles didn't feel too much different than yesterday, but again, it wasn't worse.
I read in the aforementioned issue of RW (which I think has gotten better recently) about kinesio-taping for injuries including Achilles tendonitis. I have never done too well with taping but I am going to try it while biking and see if it makes a difference. I think it is going to be difficult to do it right but I am going to try tonight.
I had to laugh at the gym tonight when I heard a couple of other regulars grumbling about the "resolution crowds." It's so true...but again I snagged an upright stationary bike and didn't have too much trouble getting the weights I wanted.
Matt's away for a couple of nights so I am going to take advantage of the quiet (i.e. lack of conversation/entertainment!) and try to go to sleep early.
Posted by becky at 10:21 PM | Comments (0)
January 5, 2009
Back in the swing of things
It's so true that five minutes after you return to work after a vacation, it's as if no time had passed at all! Well, it was nice to catch up with everyone again today, but I'm glad I got in a decent trainer ride in the morning since the day ended up being pretty stressful.
I am running low on things to watch these days as I am awaiting a Netflix and there hasn't been much on TV lately. And I am biking a lot more than I was a few weeks ago. So today it was "30 Rock" and a behind-the-scenes look at "Real World" in advance of the new (Brooklyn!) season starting this week. It was actually pretty interesting and I look forward to finishing it probably tomorrow. My Achilles was a bit achy but thankfully not very painful and it didn't bother me too much walking around today. I think I am almost ready to try running but need a couple more days.
I was anticipating a huge post-New Year's resolution crowd at the gym tonight, but it wasn't too bad. I only had to wait a couple of minutes for a bike and it was just the usual suspects in the weights area.
This day has gone quickly but somehow felt long. Good night!
Posted by becky at 9:59 PM | Comments (0)
January 4, 2009
Quiet day
It's been a long time since I had nearly two weeks off from work, and I definitely woke up today with that "last day of vacation" nervous feeling. I'm sure it will feel like no time passed once the work week starts, but we all know how it is. In any case, my Achilles has been feeling less sore each day, but my big test each morning is how it feels when I walk down the stairs. It was still a bit painful today, so I knew my decision to bike was probably a good one.
I had started watching "27 Dresses" on the bike yesterday, and the beauty of DVR is that I was able to finish it today. It was entertaining but definitely predictable. I also watched a couple of "30 Rock" episodes--I am such a big fan of the show right now. I think I might even watch a couple on hulu.com if they have them. As for my Achilles, it didn't bother me too much, although I am aware that this is the type of injury that does warm up. But I'm comparing each day to the one before it and it isn't getting worse.
Matt did a bunch of "landscaping" work outside today (mostly raking and bagging the leaves that we have neglected on our lawn for far too long) and I was inside making a pot roast that hopefully came out well (we will try it soon). It was a nice 45-degree day, my favorite kind of day for a run, and I kept wishing I could go for even a short one but I forced myself to chill out (and did another easy half-hour on the bike since I was so antsy).
I hope everyone has a good return to work, whether it is post-weekend or post-vacation!
Posted by becky at 6:43 PM | Comments (0)
January 3, 2009
Trainer ride: weekend edition
I don't have too much to say about this morning's trainer ride other than my Achilles felt a little better than it did the day before. Matt slept in so I managed to get in about 90 minutes on the bike before he woke up. None of it was super hard but I did do hill intervals for about an hour of that. I watched "Dexter" and then caught the beginning of "27 Dresses," which has been on my "cheesy movies to watch on the bike" list for some time. I hope it is on again sometime so I can finish it!
Matt and I took a walk to the movies to see "The Wrestler" this afternoon but it was sold out. So we ended up just hanging out in Bethesda for a bit and then walking back home--probably almost 4 miles of walking in total. But it was very pleasant on the first leg of the walk when the sun was out; coming back I was a little cold. We are going to try and catch the movie tomorrow instead.
Posted by becky at 6:09 PM | Comments (0)
January 2, 2009
Morning in the gym
In the almost three years that I've been struggling with injuries, I have had good days and bad days in terms of dealing with things. Today was a not-so-good one. I am tired of feeling a pang of jealousy when I pass a runner in my car and tired of having to plan my cross-training workouts so carefully because I can't just go out and run and be done with it. I hate sounding so petty because I know that I should be grateful that I have access to a gym and the ability to cross train, etc. etc...but sometimes you have those days and you can't do anything about it.
I waited to go to the gym until Matt left for work so we could both drive up to Bethesda together. I did about 25 minutes on the elliptical and stopped sort of abruptly because although my Achilles wasn't bothering me, my knee was and I don't want to do anything to inflame that spot. The elliptical isn't great because it forces you to be at a certain angle and I think that is the problem. So I switched to the spin bike, which wasn't great for my Achilles but didn't hurt my knee. (I was almost ready to get in the pool as a total last resort, but I didn't have my bathing suit.) I lowered the seat so that my calves didn't have to do as much work and that helped, but I was definitely limited in how hard I could work so it wasn't the best workout in the world.
I spent the next hour or so doing abs and then lifting because I knew I would not want to come back to the gym this afternoon. I was there for quite awhile in total but I accomplished what I had set out to and my mood was slightly better when I left.
I went to Matt's office to pick something up and had lunch while I was there too since he had just gone to get food. Then I came home to pick up around the house and attempt to fix a broken towel bar in the bathroom, but that was unsuccessful. This afternoon I did a little shopping to prolong the "vacation" that is soon coming to an end.
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 7:24 PM | Comments (0)
January 1, 2009
Happy 2009
I hope everyone had a nice New Year's Eve and was able to sleep in like I did! We went to bed around 1:30 am, which isn't too late for most people but is quite late for me. Our friends Liz and Teague stayed over at our place so I had a partner for my slow and short run this morning. (Thanks to Liz for slowing down for me!) It was quite cold and windy and my toes stayed pretty much frozen until we were finished. We did my ritzy neighborhood loop that I've been doing lately because it is flat and short. However, I forgot to start my watch when we started running so I'm not quite sure how long we were running.
My Achilles has been feeling better just walking around but I didn't know how it would feel today. It really didn't bother me during the run, which was great, but it has been sore ever since. I am still trying to figure out why it seemed to heal before but now has returned so I am taking it day by day and will cross train tomorrow.
I intended to make it to the gym later in the day today, but I fell asleep reading for about two hours! I guess I didn't sleep in as much as I should have. I didn't feel like leaving so I just went downstairs to bike for a bit. Luckily there was a "Made" marathon on MTV and that kept me occupied. My Achilles was sore but didn't bother me too much.
Tonight we are just hanging out and I will certainly be enjoying my final day off tomorrow!
Posted by becky at 9:17 PM | Comments (0)