Training Day 15 - Back on Track, Jack

Today I put my ASICS GEL Kayano 19 to better use. With Thursday's run feeling like a bust, I wanted to get back it and get myself back on track. I know I wasn't really "off-track" but I want to make progress. I know I'll have off days and off runs, and that was one. But that doesn't mean I shouldn't want to bounce back. I do want to. I haven't really seen progress on the weight side of things so far, so I like at least seeing progress on the running side of things. I decided, with the Rockstar 8K in the rear view mirror, to switch things up a bit and run the other direction on the parkway and then head up 123 a bit. I knew I was doing a short run, but thought I'd see how that direction is as a run. Plus, the change of scenery shouldn't hurt.

The Run

This run, I came out determined to run better. I didn't have anything particular in mind, but not a 15 min / mile pace and I just wanted to concentrate. And concentrate I did. My first mile I pushed out a 14:14 mile. One of my fastest, if not the fastest, splits in my training, losing only to my afore mentioned race. I was very happy with that. I kept running a little further down 123, figuring if I did, it would make my cool down easier because I would have enough distance getting straight back to the house without having to loop around or anything like I normally do. My second mile back was slower, but I still ended with a 14:38 average pace. I just got a little more distracted during my walk intervals. Also, had a longer cool down than expected. My "little further" ended up being a little more than intended. Extended cool down.

(And while brisk like Thursday, this time I threw on some long sleeve Under Armor and avoided the chill).

The Stats

Time: 29:29 mins (workout), 50:14 (total)
Distance: 2.01 miles (workout), 3.01 miles (total)
Average Speed: 4.10 mph
Average Pace: 14:38 min / mile

Bonus Distance

We decided to take Sammy to the zoo today as well. She loved all the animals at the zoo. We also saw every bird that was on the property. I'm not talking about exotic ones. Anything that chirped, Samantha would immediately spin to, point and say "tweet. tweet." It was a good time. We also had a good bit of walking in. I didn't want to leave on and try to GPS track the whole time, so I tried out the step counter function of the Endomondo app. In the pocket of my shorts, it didn't work for crap. I don't know if anyone has used it successfully or how you had your phone, but it didn't work well for me that way. I'm sure I walked for more than 10 steps in an hour, thank you very much. With trying to outline with maps online, I estimate about 4.5 miles. Not a bad extra walk at all.

And just because I can...

May the 4th be with you!