My first Lululemon outfit

I went for a quick 3 mile run this morning. Since it was only 3 miles, I decided to try and speed things up a bit. I increased the speed with each mile, and the last mile and 10 yards was a 10 minute mile. To liventhings up a bit, I wore a Lululemon outfit I had bought a few weeks ago and never got around to wearing.

I had intially shunned these clothes, as I thought the runners items ran more to my taste (no pun intended). However, I am a bit bored of the same colours and styles, and decided I wanted to experiment a bit more. So I went off to the Lululemon store one Friday and tried on a couple of outfits. I ended up with a top and pair of capris. The fit was great and I loved the colours!  The top is a great fit, though I find the neck a bit low.  I like to have my chest covered when I go running as I do not like the sun on it.  The sports bra goes somewhat toward 'sheltering' the exposed flesh.  Notwithstanding that, it would be                                                                                                               

great to wear in the gym as well. Now these capris really come into their own!  They are colourful, and fit like a dream.  Made of lightweight cotton with a bit of elastacine, they are quick drying and look terrific.  The saleswoman advised me to wash these items by hand, so they are a bit high maintenance.  Having said that, I will start off doing that, and I am sure they will end up in the washing machine!  I will definitely return to Lululemon for more capris, but am not sure about their running tops.  This is what the complete outfit looks like! As you can see I am not too good at the    self-image thing, but you get the idea of the Lululemon 'look'.

Imagine my surprise when I saw bags if Quorn in Wholefoods last week!  I had tried asking about when we first moved here, but was always referred to cobs of corn.  Quorn is a meat and soy substitute and is basically harvested from fungi.  Whilst this might sound a bit odd, it is delicious and very healthy!

I usually cook it first, the put it aside.  Then I stir fry the vegetables, and make a sauce, to which  the Quorn is added last.  A few good dashes of seasoning, and you are good to go.  I use this when we have tacos, but last night I made some penne rigate (striped pasta) with it.  While this can never be classified as  haute cusine, it does turn out rather tasty, and fuels a run pretty well too.  Tonight was double treat night: we watched the Tour de France, and we had pizza.  The stage was not very exciting, but the pizza was very good!

Garmin or Polar?

Today I managed to get it all together and leave about 45 minutes later than I had hoped. It was early and rather grey, but as always there were loads of people out running. Not as many early morning, but still quite a number of people. I also decided to run a different route, which was a bit hillier, since most of the running routes around the Charles River are flat-ish. Granted, the little protuberances this morning cannot make any claims to being proper hills, but they offered the opportunity to change pace. After the run I did a few fartleks, and then went home.
I am enjoying this experiment and am definitely going to try and run in the mornings. I think the time has also come to get a Garmin (or Polar). I could never quite decide between the 2. Although I like Garmin, I was also quite annoyed at the Tour de France incident this past summer, which saw George Hincapie deprived of the yellow jersey. In fact I wrote to Garmin expressing my views on this, and received what I thought was quite a patronising reply:

"Dear Natalia,

Thank you for your recent email regarding the Garmin-Slipstream team that is currently competing in the Tour de France. While we appreciate your perspective on the events that unfolded during Saturday’s 14th stage, it was never the team’s intention to keep George Hincapie out of the yellow jersey. Our riders rotated to the front, only in the final kilometers, and only to protect our two team leaders. We hope over time you can look back on the accomplishments of the Garmin-Slipstream team and be reminded of the excitement that they have brought to the cycling world. In closing, below is a link to an article in Bicycling Magazine that was written by Chris Carmichael, Lance Armstrong’s long-time coach, called “The Breaks of a Breakaway” that you may find interesting:

http://bicycling.com/tourdefrance/article/0,6610,s1-7-403-20125-1,00.html

Garmin International"

I think after years of following the Tour, I know what constitutes a breakaway, but that was not the point I was enquiring about. Anyway, after that I began thinking about Polar, as they seem a bit more aesthetic than the Garmins. Still this has led to no decision being made, and I think this my training might be getting to the point where mapping more precise distances, times and paces might be helpful. So if anyone has any advice on this, I would love to hear about it!

Shopping at Triathlete Sports

Triathlete Sports were having a sale, with 10% off all purchases, so to celebrate my first half marathon, I ordered some stuff.  I love capri length tights, so I ordered a pair from Orca.  The reasoning behind buying Orca was that I tried out their 2XU wetsuit this summer, and it was awesome!  So, naturally when I saw they made running tights too, I thought I would try a pair.
The sportive tight is made from Orca Form which provides muscle support.  Indeed when I tried it on, it felt like getting into a wetsuit.  These tights are tight!  I have only tried them on once, but they feel and look like they have been sprayed on.  They are well elasticated around the waist, and have quite a few reflective strips and logos, which make them ideal for running in poor light.  I saw a pair of Zoot tights, but since I wanted a black pair, I thought to go with Orca.  The verdict is still out, as I have not yet been for a run in them, but watch this space.
My second purchase was a present for my dear friend Kathy.  Kathy is a fabulous runner who still runs, but no longer does any marathons.  For her I chose a Louis Garneau top from their 2010 collection.  It is in a gorgeous turquoise colour with black panels and reflective strips.  The fabric is wonderful and Kathy loved it!
My third and perhaps most important purchase was a box of GUs.  I had tried almost all the flavours, and  had come to the conclusion that I only liked the Espresso GU.  After 2 of them though, I feel quite hyperactive.  I had also been through the range of hammergels, and did not bond with any of their flavours.  I had tried taking kitkat 2 finger snack bars with me on long runs, but the taste is quite awful, even though they are useful when you do not have any alternatives around.  I admit that I bought the chocolate outrage flavour blindly - I have never seen this in any of the shops I have visited (and believe me, I have been to many, in various states), so I have never tried it.
So I was waiting for the weekend to try out both capris and GU.  When the weekend finally came around, it was raining all the time.  Since I had another engagement on Sunday, I swapped my long run and rest day, and went out for a 10 miler on Saturday.  I had a GU before I left, but nothing could have prepared me for the taste of heaven that is their chocolate outrage offering.  It is divine....not unlike chocolate icing, but without the stultefying sweetness.  Super yum, I found my running fix!
Since it was raining heavily when I left for my run, I wore long running tights to keep my legs a bit warm at least.  And it was a wonderful run.  Very few people were out, so I could hear myself running through puddles and the squishing sound of trainers on water-logged grass.  It was the first time I actually managed to run on the grass around the Charles River, as it is usually taken over by doggies and small children.  I was a bit tired at the end, but I had also run at a much increased pace than last week.  This gives me hope for a sub 2 half one day......
Triathlete Sports are a great online resource.  They ship within 24 hours and you get exactly what you ordered.  I have bought stuff from them in the past, and have been very satisfied.  Excellent customer service, and they keep some great lines such as KSwiss, Louis Garneau, etc.

Karhu, Zoot and Karhu - a cautionary tale.

So, it would seem as though I may have lost half a pound.  In all fairness I will say that I have been feeling a bit tired of late and have slacked off with the running.  I think a big part of the reason is that I have been having sharp pains under my feet when I run.

During the summer I went to a sports expo and found my dream pair of running shoes.  Yes, they were my Karhus - the M2 version.  Once I put them on, they felt like they had been made especially for me.  The narrow fitting allows me to run sockless (which I love) and embued by the idea that Paavo Nurmi himself wore them, I purchased them for 20 USD.
The M2 range is categorized as a neutral running shoe, offering little support or cushioning.  When I was fitted with my Brooks, I got a pair of stability shoes, since that is what my feet needs.  I have very high arches really need the support in the instep - apart from my terrible running form, but that is for another post.  I decided to use my Karhus as racing flats.  However, I was thrilled with them, and decided to try and get used to them before actually racing in them.  Soon, I was using them on every run and it seemed to me that I was actually running faster!

I also bought a pair of Zoot tri shoes for T2 mainly because I hate running with socks.  I bought a pair of Women's Ultra TT running shoes on the spur of the moment, whilst actually shopping for a pair of bike shorts.  Quite honestly, I had done very little research on them, apart from reading product reviews, but these were on sale, and I felt them calling my name.  The sales people were quite busy that Saturday morning, and since the shoes felt quite good, I bought them.  Initially they were not easy to get into, but soon I got the hang of it and it took me mere seconds to get into them.  I was warned to run no more than 6 miles in them, but was told that they would be excellent as racing flats.  I soon discovered that these too were neutral shoes!  Still I ran in them quite a bit and they are truly lightweight training shoes.  That does not detract from the fact that if you need stability shoes, that is what you should get - not neutral shoes.
So my summer was spent running with either the Karhus or the Zoots - and now the chickens are coming home to roost.  I went for a run three weeks ago, and had such sharp agonizing pains under my feet that I had to stop.  I knew that this was a direct result from running in the wrong shoes.  This was a wake up call, as I have always been very careful about shoes and feet.  I had allowed myself to be carried away, thinking that surely, it could not be all that bad running in neutral shoes....well now I had my answer.

I have not been out for a decent run these past 4 weeks.  I went for a shortish slow run 2 weeks ago and then ran a 5K for the Multiple Myeloma Research Fund last week.  I ran slowly and was in agony.  Yesterday I ran a 5K for the Somerville Homeless Coalition, and my feet felt a lot better, even though the arches and heels still feel a bit funny.  A new addition to my wish list is a pair of Karhu Strong Fulcrum Ride shoes.  These are stability shoes which Karhu debuted in the 2009 running season.  This shoe is described as "proactively bringing the foot to neutral".  But right now I am plodding along in my Brooks.  I have learnt a valuable lesson - do not buy things to "try out" just because they are on sale.  That might work with Dior and Versace, but running shoes are a different matter.  Right now I feel thankful that I managed to avoid injuring my feet which would entail all kinds of complications.  Injuries and accidents happen to runners all the time - but wearing the wrong shoes when I know better, is just...stupid.  So I am not going to buy any new shoes any time soon, however, I am dreaming of a pair of Karhus (yes, the stability kind) for next year.
                                      

A Flexistential question: Newton vs Karhu

This post starts with a previso: I already own 2 pairs of running shoes, but my desire for a pair of Newtons - the Jimmy Choos of the running world - is rivalled only by my desire for a pair of Karhus - the Christian Laboutins of the running world.  Naturally at this moment I cannot buy both, having just bought a sexy sexy Specialized Dolce Triple bike!

So, the question is since I can only choose 1 pair at the moment, would they be the Newtons (the science of running embodied in Sir Isaac Newton, whose face is on the inside sole of the shoe), or the Karhus (the spirit of running embodied in the god of my running universe, Paavo Nurmi, who himself ran in Karhus)?

I went down to Boyleston Street in Boston where City Sports (of all places) stocks both brands. Well, the Newtons I saw there were very limited and not in my size; the Karhus were non existent - so that was pretty much that.  Though disappointed, all this just served to sharpen my lust for these articles.  Yes yes I know, lust is 1 of the 7 deadly sins and all that, but allow me to say that this is not just casual, unfettered lust which goes nowhere -this is focussed lust: I hope to run faster in either of these articles!

So in the meantime, whilst pondering on this flexistential question, I looked at websites, spoke to those who had Newtons, entered a competition to win a place in the Helsinki Marathon, and finally went to the New England Sports Expo to see if they would have the objects of my desire on display.

And did they ever!  The first exhibition flag I saw was for Karhu.  Trying to contain my excitement, Stuart and I stopped off to chat with the guys at the Boston Triathlon Team stand and after signing up with them, we walked over to the Karhus.  So, after picking up the red pair (see pic!), the boy told me they only had 2 sizes left - and yes, after trying on a pair they actually fit.  I was in heaven - and even more so when I was offered the shoes at 25 USD!!!  The boy seems to think they are from last season (since the new models for next season have just come out), but if you look on the Karhu site, it is actually still a current model.  But I don't care - 25 bucks for perfection - bliss! 

The shoes are quite a narrow fit, which suits me very well.  They are light and snug.  I have only worn them running once, and cycled in them a few times.  The feeling is a bit different from Adidas or Brooks but I like them.  I think I need to wear them more, before I can make a more complete comparison.

So right now I'll limit myself to the aesthetics, and say they look hot.  What is more, I think this is a sign from Paavo Nurmi himself.  I am going to wear these shoes in my half marathon which is coming up in May, and hopefully I will run a very good time.   So I shall enjoy these Karhus for a while before I get the Newtons - after all, I want to enjoy this high for a while yet!

Super Sunday 5K/10K, Feb. 1, 2009

The Marathon Sports Super Sunday 5K/10K race took place on Sunday 1st February. I had signed up for the 10K (my first timed 10K ever), and the route would provide runners with a spectacular tour of Boston's growing Seaport district with amazing waterfront views of the city and harbor.
The event started and finished at Legal Sea Foods' corporate headquarters, passed by the Harpoon Brewery, the Bank of America Pavillion and the Seaport World Trade Center. We continued through Fan Pier, passing the new ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art) before turning at the Moakley Federal Courthouse. Then came a few yards along the Harborwalk with its stunning panoramic views of downtown Boston.
The day was chilly with grey skies, but thankfully with no harsh winds or snow. I thought of wearing a balaclava, (I still have mine from a snowmobiling trip in the Arctic), but thought I would brave it without. As it turned out, there were 2 others in balaclavas, but it was bearably cold.
I met Carrie at my stop and we went down to South Station together and got the complimentary bus to the harbour. That too was a blessing, because although I was wearing my new (midzero) Sugoi tights, my legs were starting to feel a bit nippy. I was glad that I did not have any bags to check in as the queue was so long. In fact Carrie and I had lined up already but Kathy was still in the bag queue! I guess the idea must have been that since the race is chip timed, it does not really matter when you start. Still, I do not think I would be a particularly happy bunny if I were in a queue waiting to drop off my bag, and had to watch everyone surge off without me!
Well, I did the warm up prior to the race and then mooched off to the start. It seemed like we were standing there for a while, when finally people started moving. And then we were off, I started off cautiously and stopped for a drink at the 3 mile mark. At mile 4.5 I saw the clock at 40 minutes and knew I had to pick up the pace a bit. After that, I have no idea of clocks or times, until I saw the sign marking 6 miles. The final 200 yards seemed to go on forever, but high-fiving a little girl wearing pink gloves along the way, made me forget the discomfort, as well as to sprint! Furthermore, I was smiling so much thinking about that high five, that I forgot to look at the time board when I crossed the finish line.
That meant that I had no idea how I had done, and had to wait until Monday when the results were posted to discover that I had finished in 57:33. My split was 28:48, which meant that my average speed was 9:16. I placed 21/33 in my age group, and placed 476 out of a field of 731. Although I was pleased with the result, I am going to try and polish off a few seconds in the Hyannis 10K which comes up on 22nd.
It was a lovely day, I had my first taste of New England Clam Chowder, but skipped the beer as they asked me for ID!!!!! The best part? We raised more than $10,000 for Live strong and the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Another pair of Brooks in our house

My new pair of Brooks turned out to be stunning.  I have never run in such a great pair of shoes which seems to be hand crafted especially for my feet.  I think Stuart felt enthused and inspired by my ravings, so much so that he too is now the proud owner of  a pair of Brooks Adrenaline  shoes.  They seem well suited to a foot which is still recovering from an ankle sprain, and on their first outing, shoes and owner completed 8 and a half miles.  
I am so happy that Stuart has started running again - the last time he did was about 5 years ago when we were living in Geneva. Caught up in a shoe wave I wanted to try on a pair of Newton's. They look fabulous, and it must be a pretty special feeling of 'running barefoot'. Unfortunately the shop we went to was out of stock, but this has just heightened the anticipation. So dear readers, if there is anyone out there who owns or has tried out a pair of Newtons, let us know if my lust for these is indeed justified!

Brooks Infiniti & a test run thru snow, ice, slush and water

Today was such a beautiful day. The sky was blue, the sun shone and it seemed like the world was out running. I had arranged to go running with Caroline, a friend I had met since moving here, and decided that this would be the perfect time to try out my new Infiniti.
A short trial run on the treadmill proved that I had indeed made the right choice - the shoes were a delight, and much lighter than my old ones. The outdoor run would be the real proof of the pudding. We set off at an easy pace since the path around the river had been considerably narrowed due to the piles of snow all around. In places the snow had melted and then frozen making for slippery conditions. In other places there were just large puddles of water. There were lots of people running, and the the shoes were put through their paces in snow and sludge. My experience with these shoes has been very positive. Caroline liked them too and she's off to see Jason on Tuesday for her new pair.
Besides the shoes though, the day was gorgeous, and running outside raised the spirits, and once again made me feel that the stair climb I have looming in February is a very doable experience. After all, doesn't Lance Armstrong say something about pain being temporary and victory being permanent??

Feet don't lie - with apologies to Shakira

Stuart and I went down to the acquarium today, only to find a queue and a waiting time of 1 hour prior to entry! No fun in icy cold winds, so we trekked down to Faneuil Hall and after browsing around the Quincy Market, found ourselves in front of the Bill Rodgers Running Center. After reading so much about it, I had to go in. The shop is on 2 floors. The ground floor has a small room with various types of clothing, but the shoes are in a separate department which is accessed down some stairs. There an entire wall of shoes greets your eyes - and they certainly look majestic! This wall looks nothing like the places I usually buy my running shoes at (last pair was at an outlet). Shoes of all hues, styles, weights and brands tempt the eyes which survey them. It is also quite a tactile experience as you feel you want to reach out and touch them.
We were greeted by a really nice man who went about his business and told us to call him if we needed him. After browsing a bit, I went to ask about getting a second pair of shoes, and whether it should be the same make as the ones I already had. Now, I usually feel quite intimidated by these kinds of shops. I am out of my comfort zone, and don't know a thing about shoes, let alone a whole discussion on pronation, supports and other issues. Jason answered my question, then started asking me about my running. He made me feel at ease, relaxed and then offered to look at my feet. Naturally I hesitated as I had not come prepared to buy shoes, was wearing boots and tights. From looking at my feet, tights still in place, Jason brought out 3 possible pairs of shoes.
I tried them on and the toss up was between 2 pairs. Further discussion with Jason led to me purchasing a pair of luxurious Infiniti by Brooks.
I was still plagued by a few doubts as the pair I had chosen has a slight built in support and I had no idea whether my old shoes has this. However, they also felt 'right' on my feet. Although I could not explain exactly what I meant, Jason told me to try them out at home on a treadmill for a half hour, and to bring them back if they didn't work out. At home I not only discovered that my old Adidas pair did have a built in arch support, but on visiting brooksrunning and taking their online test, their recommendation for me was....you guessed it, the Infiniti!
I am so pleased with my new shoes. I have never bought a pair with such expert advice. Jason is not only thoroughly knowledgeable in the area, but offered me a few useful running tips. The store is well equipped, but most importantly the customer service is superb! I shall certainly be going back there, and for my fellow runners who have similar anxieties about these kinds of shops, take the plunge, you may meet someone as cool as Jason who gives you a lot more than just the pair of shoes you walk out with. And most importantly, trust yourself, and listen to your feet. They never lie.