Mini Workout #1, Hill Repeats

Tuesday I officially kicked off my Mini training plan with a workout consisting of "hill repeats." A little background for you on hill workouts. A runner (in this case me) does a warm up run (I did one mile) then finds a hill about 200 meters in length (half the distance of the inside lane of the standard track that you find around a high school football field). Starting from the base of the hill the runner charges up the hill at a pretermined pace. On Tuesday I ran up the hill six times at a brisk pace. Then the runner does a cool down run (1 mile back home for me).

The weather was great for a run, although a bit windy. The temp hovered right at the 50 degree mark and only a spattering of rain from time to time. I wore shorts, a short sleeve shirt and arm warmers and actually got a little too hot. I am happy with the start and looking forward to a rigorous and rewarding training period!

Spirit of the Marathon

Last night I went to the limited release showing of "Spirit of the Marathon." The film is a documentary that features runners during their training for and racing of the 2005 Chicago Marathon. The strories of the athletes, ranging from elites to 6:00 hr/plus runners is inspiration and moving. The film resonated with me as it mirrored many of the challenges and joys that I faced as I prepared for that very same 2005 Chicago Marathon. As I watched memories of race day rushed back to me and left me anxious for my next run.

As you are enjoying the heat wave this weekend (High 3o's) think about me out on the road huff and puffing my way along the road. I officially start my training for the Indianapolis Minimarathon on Monday. I am looking forward to tackling some lofty goals in running this year and appreciate your support. While the half marathon is sold out there are still entries available for 5K which takes place concurrently with the half.