If you celebrate, happy Good Friday and Easter Weekend!
It’s the last Friday of the month. March is almost a memory. So I thought I’d once again join in and share my Runfessions, hosted by Marcia’s Healthy Slice. We’re all sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly!
I’m also sharing these runfessions as part of the Friday Five with Mar, Courtney, and Cynthia!
[bctt tweet=”Dog running and sneaker drama…latest runfessions! #runfessions #fridayfive”]
Runfessions – March 2016
I’m Glad Winter Is Over, But…
It seems that winter is finally over in Philly…and gosh, I hope it stays that way! I’m glad that Daylight Savings has returned and that the weather is warmer. But I have to runfess that I am one of those grumpy runners who don’t like to share the road/trail with dozens of people. For me, running is about having some peace and tranquility, and I find that hard to do when I’m dodging bicyclists and runners on the wrong side of the trail. It’s great that everyone’s out and exercising, I just wish they’d stay out of my way!
Phew…I’m glad I could get that out of my system! I’ll need to find some new trails to explore this spring to avoid the big crowds.
I’m Unsure About Getting Back to Coaching
These past few months, I’ve forgone working with Coach Kristy in favor of using a training plan from Cherry Blossom since I am one of their Social Runners. So far, things have gone really well! But now that the race is almost here, I have to runfess that I’m nervous about getting back on a more personalized training plan!
You may have figured out that I LOVE having structure in my life. It was great working with Kristy because she gave me explicit instructions on what to do on each run, distance and pace. I enjoyed the routine and I worked hard to make sure I got in all of my runs, which I did do most of the time!
But it is an investment and coaching prices have gone up. And if I’m being honest, I’m still disappointed with the way things ended at the Annapolis Half Marathon. Yes, I started out way too fast, but I hated feeling so unprepared by those hills. Even more, I hated the feeling of letting down my coach by not meeting my goal.
Will having a coach put too much pressure on myself? I don’t know. I’ll have to think this one through.
I Think Running Has Really Become My Life
It’s kind of insane and hilarious at the same time. When I think about how I spend my time, all that I do is work, blog, and run. Maybe because I gave up drinking for Lent, I don’t have as much of a social life anymore? It’s really weird.
It also really amuses/amazes me how many races I have on tap this year. I already had 2 races in the winter and will next have Cherry Blossom, The Love Run Relay, Run for Clean Air, Broad Street Run, and the 1/2 Sauer 1/2 Kraut Half Marathon in the spring. I’m still deciding whether to do the King of Prussia 10-Miler in late May. And I haven’t even talked about marathon training for Philly in November yet!
Hopefully I don’t come off as too much of a loser or a running snob, haha. I have lots of other interests too, I swear! Or maybe we can be losers/snobs together :).
I’d Kind of Love to Have a Furry Running Buddy
I’ve seen several people out on the run with their dogs lately and I have to runfess that I am jealous! We really didn’t have dogs growing up, and I’m actually a cat person through and through. But I think it would be really fun to have a dog to run with once in a while! And I know that Bret would really enjoy a furry running buddy too.
There is a group called the Monster Milers where you can volunteer to run with a dog. I would love to get involved. I’m not ready to take care of a dog full-time just yet, but this seems to be the best of both worlds. If I get to work with the Monster Milers, I’ll let you know!
The Running Shoe Drama? So Over It…
Last, let me talk about running shoes. It has really been a nightmare. I never know what’s going to happen when I put on my Mizuno Wave Rider 19’s. Over 120 miles in, they still don’t feel right to my feet or ankles.
I’ve been going back and forth between those and my old Nike Pegasus 21’s. Those shoes feel like I’m running on clouds! The only problem is that they have over 300 miles on them, and my right shin starts “speaking” to me while I’m on a run. Thank goodness for compression socks!
I’m grateful the Mizuno’s felt fine during the Rock ‘N Roll DC Half Marathon (other than that pesky blister from sock friction 9 miles in), but I don’t know whether I should trust them again for the Cherry Blossom Run. Is it the lacing that’s the problem?
One thing for sure is that after this race, I’m going back to Nike Pegasus as my primary running shoe.
What running confessions are you willing to share?
I can totally understand your concerns about your coach. I worked with one a couple of years ago who I just didn’t feel like her plan prepared me for the hills (Flying Pig). I added my own hillwork but still. A coach should definitely ask about the course and prep you mentally and physically.
I’m right there with you with Mizuno. I think I mentioned I had to switch them out. So hate when shoe brands so this. Thanks for linking up!
As always, thanks for hosting! I’m going to stay away from Mizuno for awhile unfortunately! Once this race is over I’m moving on!
Ugh on the shoe drama! I love my Mizunos but believe 100% that running shoes are personal! I am with you on not liking crowded running trails, but I get more frustrated when I am on my bike and people walking/running side-by-side won’t scoot over so I can pass. Argh! I can’t wait to see you at the CUCB events!
Coco, I can’t believe race time is almost here…can’t wait to finally meet you! I don’t bike on the trails often, but when I do, it is definitely frustrating trying to get past people. Seems like you can’t win either way!
The running shoe drama…been there, done that. I don’t think we knew each other when I was going through my own drama (fall 2014). A guy at a new (to me) store convinced me I needed neutral shoes, even though I over-pronate like crazy. I bought some Saucony shoes (I have since forgotten the model), and they just were not for me. He even told me I needed them bigger than I was wearing my other shoes….I wear a 9.5 street shoe, so I typically buy 10.5-size running shoes. He put me in a size 11…..and they felt like clown shoes. After several months, I went to another store (for a different opinion), and the gal there shook her head at the shoes from the other store…..they were not the correct style (I really need stability shoes) and they were much too large. Currently, I’m in Brooks Adrenaline GTS and am MUCH happier.
I’m glad you found the shoes that work for you! I went to a “well regarded” running store and was recommended to wear Asics that were stability shoes…meanwhile I’m neutral. I ended up with PF within weeks! So frustrating.
I love my coach but for Big Sur, she’s kind of left me on my own. And now that I’m injured and can’t do much running, I’m not getting a lot of guidance. It’s a little unnerving…
Oh no!! It’s hard to not have the guidance when you’re used to having it in your back pocket when the going gets tough. I do miss having the personalized attention. I hope things brighten on your side!
I used to run with my dog all the time. We were at a much slower pace than what I normally run so I would run by myself first then take her on a cool down lap. Now that she is getting older we go on long walks instead. I let her off the leash in desolate areas and she runs around like she is still a puppy. So fun! Unconditional love! You need to get one.
Aww that sounds like so much fun! I bet running with a dog makes it easier to actually run “easy”. She sounds like a sweet dog 🙂 Hopefully soon I’ll know the feeling!
I just found out that Brooks is no longer making the Pure Connect. I’m so upset because it takes so much effort to find a new shoe that works. I am going to try the next shoe in the Pure line but I’m still so disappointed! So, I feel your shoe pain!
Oh really, I’m surprised about that! Hopefully you can buy up a bunch of the remaining pairs before you need to find a replacement!
I tried to use the CB running plan and I really thought the mileage was way too high for me earlier on so I ditched it. I am loving my Mizuno Catalysts have you tried them?
I did the intermediate plan but I still never could run 5 days a week. We have to meet at the race next weekend! I haven’t tried the Mizuno Catalysts, maybe I just picked the wrong model…
The whole shoe thing can be so frustrating – I’m rotating through 3 pairs right now and don’t totally love any of them. I’m also with you on the whole coach thing – for my upcoming half marathon I’ve decided to passing on coaching and do my own thing. But I’ve been debating whether to work with a coach in the fall – it can add some additional pressure.
It’s so frustrating, especially when they keep “tweaking” the models that we like! Sometimes the pressure of a coach is a good thing. I’m glad I took a break for a few months, just don’t know when to start back up again.
Completely get the going with a less expensive coaching option. Your shoe issues are about the same as me and bras right now, not sports bras but regular ones.
Oh finding the right bra can definitely be frustrating, especially if you buy a pricey one that doesn’t fit.
Happy Easter! it is very strange to work on Good Friday… I always feel that I can’t find myself… I should be home making Good Friday Dinner!
Watch out with the Fair weather runners! they are out in full swing!
Good luck with the shoes! Go with whatever works best for you! I’m testing Brooks Pure Flow 4 right now… still not sure… I love my nike frees.
Two of my runfessions are about food, Having coke( even thought I gave it up for lent) and sneaking a croissant.
Thankfully we get Good Friday off at my job; hopefully you didn’t have a rough day at work! And thanks for sharing your runfessions…sometimes treats are tough to resist!
I like sharing the road with other runners but it makes me a little self-conscious about my pace and form.
I remember laughing when I first realized running had kind of become my life. It’s like…my MAIN hobby now, the thing I’m known for and love to do! How weird is that?!
I first ran in the Nike Pegasus. They’re a great, comfy shoe! If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Plus, they’re not as pricey as some of the fancier shoes out there.
Oh I am always self-conscious about my pace…EVERY TIME. It’s crazy! It just gets so busy on the trail I use most of the time and a lot of people don’t follow proper etiquette. Ugh. Yeah, I can’t even deny how much of a runner I am these days. It’s crazy but it’s awesome! And yeah, I’m getting some more Pegasus for sure…maybe I can try some different colors!
I use to run in Mizuno’s all the time. I loved the Inspire 9’s then the 10’s came out and they rubbed my ankles they were awful! Holly even contributes her foot problems to them but we talked to a Mizuno rep recently and she said things were looking up and they were making some changes! I hope you get this worked out nothing worse than knowing it’s your shoes that are hurting you!
Interesting, it seems that across the board Mizuno’s been making a lot of changes. I’m still nervous about whether to wear these shoes for Cherry Blossom. They were fine at RNR DC but I’m not sure if I want to risk it…
I’m having shoe drama too and will have to go back to researching when my 10k is done. I found the model I do wear on sale, online, but the new models don’t have good reviews. Why do they always have to change what’s working?
Totally agree – I don’t know why they keep changing shoes when they’re fine the way they are! It really makes it tough to have the right pair. Hope you find the right ones for you too!
Shoe drama is no good! I started with my Asics and I am too scared to try anything else! Enjoy your Spring and tell those folks to get out of your way! 🙂
I’ve been trying to have 2 different pairs to rotate while training but can never seem to find the right combination! I’ve wanted to love Asics but my feet always reject them, lol!
Yes! a furry running buddy is the BEST.
I need to see this for myself, gah!
So frustrating when changing running shoes doesn’t work out. When I found a pair I liked I bought 2 more pair. I have my first marathon in a week and feeling a bit saturated with all the running that is preoccupying my mind and my life. I am looking forward to a break !
I look forward to hearing how your marathon goes! I really need to stop experimenting with the shoes and stick with what works!
I’ve been working w/ Coach Kristy for the last few months and have really enjoyed the personalized plan and guidance and feedback after each workout. I appreciate your recommendation! It is a little pricy, that’s for sure… but I see it as an investment, and definitely not forever. Although, I did just enter the lottery for the Chicago Marathon, so I may need to keep her as a coach for a few more months haha.
Happy weekend! 🙂
Oh I didn’t realize you’ve been working with Kristy, that’s awesome! You’ve been doing great with your races! I’m not sure if I should wait to work with her for Philly marathon training or start working with her after Cherry Blossom to finish up the spring.
Thank you! You’re planning on the Philly full!? That’s awesome! This is going to be such a big fall for City Fit Girls runners!! 🙂
It’ll be my first marathon ever…ahhhh!
I would love to have a running coach, but I already spend so much money on CrossFit. I’d also LOVE a 4-legged running buddy! I want one so badly!
I’ve been intrigued by CrossFit but man is it pricey!! I tend to be the nervous type, but I should talk to my old coach soon.
I would love to have a furry running buddy too! Unfortunately, my cats are indoors only and they only run for treats. 🙂
LOL! Love kitties!
I love the idea of the doggie running group! I would be all over that one! Once we move out of our apartment into our new house in May I’m definitely going to start looking for a dog so I can have a furry running and hiking buddy with me wherever I go!
That sounds awesome! We’ll be moving into a house this year so it would be great to actually have enough space for a dog.
Finding the right coach can definitely be tricky. I do my best to get to know potential clients before accepting them to make sure that we’re a good fit. I want to make sure they feel comfortable with me, and I’m always looking for feedback on how they’re feeling about the plan.
Don’t get me wrong, I really like my coach! I think I was just a bit hard on myself last year. I probably should have spoken up more about my concerns to my coach. It sounds like you’re doing great with your coaching biz! 🙂
Boo for those shoes still not working for you! And I too have been totally annoyed by sharing the pavement and the trails with others as it’s becoming prime running season!
I’m glad I’m not the only one who feels that way, Becki!
Ah shoes. It seems like it ought to be so simple and yet it’s so hard! And even if the found the perfect shoe, no doubt I’d still be trying on new stuff.
I never even though about letting a coach down! I would’ve thought it’s the other way around. Don’t use that A word around here! (ZOOMA, that is). I’m used to hills, but man, I just crumbled in that heat & humidity. Good thing once I’m done with a half in a state, I’m done!
I wish I could run with Lola. That would definitely make my life easier!
I only wore Mizuno Wave Riders for years. They definitely made a change to the uppers. I bought a pair of 17’s for a Marathon a year and a half ago, and couldn’t wear them! This was after training in the 16’s for 2 months.
I wear the Mizuno Enigma now-they are great! Not sure why they feel different to me, but were recommended by the folks at my local running store. I need the Mizunos because that plate really helps to balance my IT band issues.
Anyway, you may want to give those a try someday!