Now that we’ve had the chance to get to know each other a little better — and because we have so many new readers, which is awesome! — I thought I’d throw this question out, as it will help us get a sense of where everyone in our group is on their running journey.
Where are you with your running? A few ways to answer this question might be:
When did you start running?
How many miles/kilometers do you run every week?
What kinds of distances do you enjoy most?
Where do you like to run? Any great running spots near you?
Are there any particular challenges you’re having right now?
I’ll drop my answers in the chat too — but I really can’t wait to hear what you have to say 🙌 — Terrell
I started running in 2011 and then started running *more* after quitting drinking in 2012. I was training for my first half in 2013, when I got into a car accident (hit by another driver). I had to wait 2.5 years to get the hip surgery I needed, then told my PT my goal was to simply be able to run for 5 minutes again lol. We achieved that pretty quickly. But I've still spent most of the past many years focusing on walking and hiking, not running. I slowly added it back last year, and am focusing not on any *goals* (yet) but rather on making it part of my routine again. So far, so good ☺️
Congratulations on your recovery and attitude. I also have had "set backs" as I am sure other runners have had........injuries, surgeries, family issues, etc. can take us away from running......not focusing on goals (yet) but making it part of your routine is an outstanding outlook. I am inspired.......Thank you.
Hi all. I’m not actually a marathoner/half-marathoner, preferring 5 or 10k. I’ve been running my whole adult life, so 25ish years now. It has definitely ebbed and flowed in terms of my dedication, but I started running with a couple of neighbours in 2019 and we got pretty serious through the pandemic, for lack of other things to do! I run with them twice a week, usually a shorter weeknight run and a longer (5-7k) Sunday run. We usually run intervals, right now 3-5 min with 1-2 min walk. I run a third day on my own and I try to mix it up: hills, sprints, long runs, endurance runs. I’ve been extending my intervals since I trained for a 10k last fall - on my long runs I’ll run 5-8 min with max 1 min jog/walk. There are amazing lake, river, and forest trails near my house, including flat, gentle hills, and mountain. I’ve had my share of issues and injuries, mostly in my feet, and now know I need a regular date with my physio to keep things on track! I cross-train with yoga 2-3 times a week, and in the spring-summer I paddle on a dragon boat team. I’m also planning to increase strength training because that’s the piece I’m missing and that I think will be increasingly important to keep up my running and other activities as I get older!
I have been running since the mid-70s. Started out running as cross-training for hockey and eventually hockey became cross-training for running. Biggest challenge is getting back to running as I have not run for a year due to medical issues. Needless to say, one gets terribly out of shape rapidly. I get motivation from all the comments in the Friday Thread, and going through my running logs of past years. I have run in some unique places - Svalbard (78 degrees North); the cliffs of Normandy (could almost hear the battle); many European capitals; and all over the US and Canada. I have run countless races of various distances, but my favorite distance is the half. My last half was the DC Rock n Roll in 2022 where I was the oldest runner out of 10,000 - had a blast. I had planned on the Little rock 1/2 last Spring, but had to cancel. I have just started back walking and hope to progress to running and accomplish a 1/2 before the end of the year. Thanks to you all for helping me to keep motivated.
been running for decades. i'm doing a january challenge where you have to do some sort of activity every day, even if is just a one mile walk or 20 min. workout. it is motivating me to get more running in which has been great.
Been running for the past 17 or so years. I love half marathons, and have run 23 or 25 (who’s counting?) and two marathons. My Achilles treated me badly last year, and at 47 I am learning I need to do weights if I want to keep my 20-25 mile weekly average
I began running as exercise and cardio with my daughter in 2009. I must have been in my early 60s. While she had problems with her legs and knees--a running pose I could not get used to--I did some research and found a book on Chi Running--effortless, easy, I thought I'd give it a try as the other sure did not resonate with me. 2012, I spent a 1 day workshop with Danny Dreyer and three of his Master Assistants . . .a Mother's Day Present to myself. It was the best investment I ever made! Here I am at 76 years old. I would not know any other way of running. . . still do chi walk and run. At one point, I was pushing 70 miles a month. . . now it has dropped to 30miles a month and a rowing machine, though I still am managing the 30 miles in rowing terms. Living in the steep hills of Oregon has changed my perspective on running. I walk a lot now, though I do love to run on the flat trails that are close to the river when I can get down there. Looking forward to the Eugene Half at the end of April. While I don't really enjoy flat trails, part of the Run to Stay Warm in November was along the Willamette River--very scenic and beautiful. No challenges at the moment. The weather and the terrain mostly hold me back. I've had a few setbacks last winter--they seem to be over. Let's see, I have Eugene in April, a Virtual run of 90 miles starting Feb.1 (Birds VS Bees) and a 10K along the Embarcadero in SF come July. My dance card is full until we come up with a Meet-up in the Fall! ( Skiff of snow last night, looking toward Monday when the NWS says we get a dose of freezing rain--I can hardly wait!
I've been running since fifth grade, although stopped for a bit in high school. I'm currently training for my first marathon in April so am following a plan to train for that. I enjoy medium distances (4-8 miles is my happy spot). I especially love to run at Golden Gate Park and along the beach in San Francisco. One challenge is the days are short, so it gets dark after work, so I need to get up early to run - which can be tough!
Such a great question! I’m loving everybody’s answers.
I’ve been battling a bit of insomnia lately, which is totally new to me, and I noticed that it’s way less problematic on days when I run. It’s been interesting to discover—with age and experience—how running has offered different benefits at different moments in life!
I have just started tracking a bunch of things (caffeine, exercise, alcohol, etc) in an attempt to figure out my sleep issues, so this is great to hear!
Started running in 1989 after being a spectator at several MCMs and finally decided to train for and run one. Ended up running 7 marathons. In my 70s now and have settled into running and walking on alternate days. Still manage at least one half every year and a smattering of 10 milers (Cherry Blossom this year). When I worked in Georgetown (DC) I enjoyed running on the C&O Canal toe path
Would love to know where some of the 10 miles are located. I've run many half"s, but at almost 72, do not want to put my body through multiple half"s this yr.
Yeah, I remember that one. Last year it was about 28 degrees at start. Average them out and it’s a comfortable 54. I’m hoping for something comfortably in the middle next month.
When did you start running? After high school, where I did sprints and jumps, I converted to long distance while in college inspired by folks like Bill Rodgers, Amby Burfoot, Jeff Galloway and Frank Shorter. In my junior year in college - as much to shed unwanted pounds from hotdogs and beer - I began by following Kenneth Coopers theories and aerobic suggestions - going as far as to keep a calendar to his specs. By my mid 20's I had joined a team - The Syracuse Chargers and eventually The Syracuse Track Club and began marathons. I've now completed 19 marathons. And plan to do another when I turn 70 in a couple of years to continue a streak of at least one marathon in each decade since my 20's.
How many miles/kilometers do you run every week? Between 25 - 30. Using Galloways run/walk method. Once a week I'll do hill repeats and every other week speedwork on the track.
What kinds of distances do you enjoy most? They are all unique in what they ask of me. The 5k feels like a long sprint at this point! The 10k provides the most challenge to me given it's as much strategic as anything. The half marathon is a distance I have seen the Galloway methods have the most impact with. All these races, regardless of length, are a joy to run for me. In the 70's and 80's the field were dominated by males. I had assisted Title IX implementation while I was an ungrad at SU and today I am witnessing the result of decades of Title IX access. Races are now majority female and I have seen this surge as a positive development all the way around!
Where do you like to run? Any great running spots near you? I live within a mile of Long Island Sound and Niantic Bay and have quick access to shoreline routes. I also have several parks nearby which provide trail runs. Among my requirements of living location is access to a track nearby. East Lyme HS track is my happy place at the moment. For the past 8 years I have also feasted on Charlottesville High Schools track as well as University of Virginia's when it was easily accessed.
Are there any particular challenges you’re having right now? Yes, I'm trying not to race as much as I did last year and finding it difficult to pare down my desires! I have eliminated hot weather races due to its negative impact upon my post race recovery and overall energy. Given climate change? The hot weather season seems to be increasing rapidly here in New England. So it compresses races into cooler weather. I am racing in Charleston next week - where the dice is rolled and I am lucky it will be a cool day to run!
So enjoyed reading just now, you naming the Greats.... Frank Shorter was and always will be one of my hero's... I've mentioned him to people and they'll say WHO?? I met him, in Nville Tn, day before I was doing the h/m, in '13. He and John Bingham, another Great, doing Q/A session.
If it wasn't for Galloway's WRW book, I may have given up running half's,,, 3 back surgeries in 90's, and foot surgeries,,, he is an awesome coach.
I’m one of those people who is in transition and not doing as well as I’d hoped (to give hope to those who are in the same boat!). I’ve been running for almost 12 years, and the half is my favorite (I quit marathons after my second one). Normally I’d like to run about 20-25 miles per week, but right now I’m on the IR while I wait on a diagnosis for my back pain. I was in the middle of getting my mileage up for a Feb half, so that is now on the back burner. I live in Burke’s Garden VA, which is in the mountains of SW VA…it has the best views, but is much more difficult to run than Charleston SC (where I previously lived) due to hills and winter weather. In addition to Charleston SC, I also highly recommend the Olentangy River Trail and Alum Creek Trail in Columbus, OH, where my brother lives. They are easily accessible, all paved, and over 20 miles long! Burke’s Garden is also awesome if you don’t mind hills - we have a 5K and half (called the Varmint Run) the second Saturday of June - come and join me!
I have been running for about 30 years, at varying levels of competitiveness (with myself)! Mileage depends on what I am training for. I did manage 2023km in 2023 (literally 2023km on 31 Dec!). Generally run 3-5 times a week 4-6 miles, with longer runs when training for a marathon or half marathon.
I am really enjoying the weekly Parkrun (5km) that is held at 8am every Saturday morning at Terry Hershey Park in Houston. You should all check out Parkrun online, it is a free, timed event every Saturday and there are thousands across the world that you can participate in. https://www.parkrun.us/
I am struggling with a knee injury at the moment (too many miles in 2023!) so not able to do the Houston Marathon which I had entered this weekend (not happy). But sure to get back running again soon!
Hi all! I started running in high school and have been at it ever since. Usualy half marathons are my jam, but I'll do an occasional marathon. Last year my goal was to run 1,000 miles and I ended up at 978. SO CLOSE! Hopefully I'll make it this year.
I started running June 2023 and was up to running 6 or 7 miles a day when I decided to train for a half marathon at my oldest daughter's urging. I ran that half in early December 2023 - my first ever. I've mentioned on here before that this follows my weight loss and fitness journey - from 325 lbs down to about 165 now, from totally sedentary to running daily and weightlifting and other workouts.
I really enjoy the challenge of longer distances, pushing myself past what I ever thought I could do before. I like road running in my small town. I live in the Waco, Texas area - right outside Waco, in Robinson, a "bedroom community," so to speak of the greater Waco area (which is actually bigger than a lot of people realize - the whole area all together, with all the little cities that make up this area, is something like 250,000+ people). But Robinson is pretty small - something like 11,000 people, and it's pretty easy to run around here (except during school traffic hours, which is usually when I'm running, so I end up sticking to my very small neighborhood on weekday mornings, just doing laps on the mile-long "circle" I live on).
My challenge right now is that I pulled my hamstring pretty badly a week before that half-marathon. I babied as best I could before the race because I was determined to meet that goal I had set for myself; it had become really important to me. I was so proud to finish that race. But that hamstring was painful, and even though I have rested it for a while, it won't heal. I have tried a few runs since, and it keeps hurting. I'm actually seeing a sports medicine specialist in a week or so, as soon as I can get in to see him! I don't want to lose my progress, and also I miss running! I'm keeping up with exercise in other ways, but I'm missing the running!
Honestly, even the mileage aside, I was probably overdoing things from a time perspective, so the forced rest has been a good thing in some ways. But if/when I'm back to strength, I'm considering doing the full marathon next December in Dallas. That feels a little crazy to me, but so did committing to the half-marathon when all I had ever run before that was about 3 or 4 miles at a time!
Grateful to have found this group - I've enjoyed sharing my progress and reading about others' journeys!
I started running about 15 years ago- and probably run 25-30 miles every week . One of the things I've really learned to enjoy is sort of medium speed base runs. I feel like I did something, but don't find myself gasping for breath. My perpetual challenge is trying to avoid injuring my legs/ankles/feet in some way while still running a lot. I tore my miniscus in my right knee about 7 years ago - and have been really cautious about how I run (and how fast I run) ever since.
I started running 10 years ago. How much I run depends on what I am training for. I like to always have something on the calendar to keep me going. Big races this year will be the London Marathon and the NYC Marathon. I was supposed to run NYC last year but a torn labrum (hip) and strained glute derailed that plan, so I will run it this year instead. Taking training for London easy and doing lots of strength work to try and avoid further issues with the hip. One of my favorite race distances is the 5 mile...more of a challenge than a 5k and don't need to train as much as for longer races. I live in the greater Cleveland area and love to run in the Cleveland Metro Parks. We have access to miles and miles of well maintained paved trails, so putting together a 20+ mile training run is super easy during marathon training. We are very lucky to have such a resource nearby. Wishing I could do the Eugene race with you all, but it's just too close to London (4/21) to work out. Have fun out there!
I’m a former greater Clevelander myself and head back occasionally to visit relatives, catch a Browns or an Indians game (I’m not giving up easily), or for a run. I’ve done the Rock Hall half twice, the Hofbrauhaus half once, and the Browns 5k once. You can take the boy out of Cleveland, but you’ll never get Cleveland out of the boy.
It seems like the weather is always super hot and humid for the Hofbrauhaus event. I used to do the 10K, but now just do the 5K. I figure I can get through that no matter how hot & humid it is, lol! Cleveland is a great city. It has its problems, just like anywhere else, but it also has a lot going for it. And yes, GO BROWNS!
Yeah. When I did the HBH, it was a thunderstorm with pouring rain at start time. An hour later, they were about to cancel and the sky cleared so we got to go.
Would be great to meet up another time, Stacy! I plan on doing these race get-togethers twice a year (or maybe more, if I can make it work). Hopefully we'll meet up at another one!
started in high school in 1965. Then a 10 year gap, running wasn't much of thing then. First race was with Dolphin South End runners group in San Francisco. Watched the first women's 100 x 1 mile challenge. Then years of moderate miles, 5, 10, 25, 42, 50 and 83 km races. Switched to trails after too many city 5 ks. Retired from competition in 2020. New knee in 2023. Now a fair weather runner 2-4 times a week.
June of 2023. It was a partial replacement on the medial side. Everything went very smoothly. I was running in August. Irony is the knee is better but my desire for the hard work has waned. But when I do get out the knee doesn't hurt. Doctor said the complete healing would take a year. If anyone is contemplating this, it helps to be in shape prior to surgery. Also, to do pre and post exercises.
Hi Terrell - on average, I run about 25 miles per week but that increases when I’m training for a half or full marathon. My favorite distance is the half marathon because it seems to bring the most crowd of spectators and I enjoy feeling the energy from them. I enjoy meeting runners that do it for fun too 😊. With that said, I’m on a journey to qualify for Boston and NY. I have already qualified for Chicago. My next big race is Mt Charleston on April 6th and this will be the BQ! I continue to target 4 half marathons in different states to hit my goal of running at least a half marathon in all 50 states - I might see you in Eugene in late April 😊! There is one problem I’m trying to figure out and that is how to increase my cadence, decrease my stride without increasing pace. It’s taking a lot of focus during a run to figure this out 🤪! Until next time, have a great weekend and happy running 🏃🏻♀️!
I ran my first half marathon (metric) in Brussels, Belgium in 1986. My current training routine is 2-3 5k runs per week. I used to do more and longer training runs, but I have now put more emphasis on strength training at the expense of cardio. Now in my 70s I have to pay more emphasis on keeping bones and muscles strong to avoid running injuries. My sweet spot for races is the 10k, with 5ks and occasional 10 milers thrown in. I like to do at least one “runcation” per year - Canada, France, Bahamas were past adventures. The area around my town of Williamsburg VA hosts many interesting races. Next month is the Colonial Half + 5k. In March I will run in the Vietnam Veterans run in Warrenton VA to honor those with whom I served in Vietnam who are disabled or no longer with us. I’m very fortunate to have no issues to interfere with my continuing fitness campaign.
40+ years of consistent fitness training is paying off.
The year I ran the Colonial Half was wild. Super warm for February. 2018. Starting line temp: 80. It's never that warm.... Yet in true homage to Murphy's law? :-) Despite the tough slug I recall the course being picturesque. Good luck!
In April the “Run the DOG” 5k. DOG is Duke of Gloucester Street. Goes through the colonial area and Willian and Mary campus. In December the Busch Gardens Christmas Towne 8k dash through the park area.
My 125th half is on Sunday ... Sharkbite Half in New Smyrna Beach, FL (just south of Daytona Beach). Bittersweet ... I’ll be doing this race in memory of my brother Ward (short for Howard) who passed away this past Monday at the age of 78.5. Half is my favorite ... full is too long ... half is just right to talk with a lot of fellow runners, high-five kid spectators out with their parents, and just enjoy the sights and sounds of “wherever I am”. This is my 17th year of this nonsense!
It was a good day … 52 at 7:30 start of race … a little chilly for this Florida wuss who thinks anything below 70:is cold … ran for my brother …nthanks for your thoughts.
Oh, Dave -- I'm so sorry to hear about your brother. Maria is totally right, this is a wonderful way to honor him and celebrate his memory. What a wonderful brother you are!
Cherry Blossom 10 miler is in DC every April. I run another 10 miler in Reston, VA every March sponsored by Potomac River Runners.
I started running in 2011 and then started running *more* after quitting drinking in 2012. I was training for my first half in 2013, when I got into a car accident (hit by another driver). I had to wait 2.5 years to get the hip surgery I needed, then told my PT my goal was to simply be able to run for 5 minutes again lol. We achieved that pretty quickly. But I've still spent most of the past many years focusing on walking and hiking, not running. I slowly added it back last year, and am focusing not on any *goals* (yet) but rather on making it part of my routine again. So far, so good ☺️
Congratulations on your recovery and attitude. I also have had "set backs" as I am sure other runners have had........injuries, surgeries, family issues, etc. can take us away from running......not focusing on goals (yet) but making it part of your routine is an outstanding outlook. I am inspired.......Thank you.
Hi all. I’m not actually a marathoner/half-marathoner, preferring 5 or 10k. I’ve been running my whole adult life, so 25ish years now. It has definitely ebbed and flowed in terms of my dedication, but I started running with a couple of neighbours in 2019 and we got pretty serious through the pandemic, for lack of other things to do! I run with them twice a week, usually a shorter weeknight run and a longer (5-7k) Sunday run. We usually run intervals, right now 3-5 min with 1-2 min walk. I run a third day on my own and I try to mix it up: hills, sprints, long runs, endurance runs. I’ve been extending my intervals since I trained for a 10k last fall - on my long runs I’ll run 5-8 min with max 1 min jog/walk. There are amazing lake, river, and forest trails near my house, including flat, gentle hills, and mountain. I’ve had my share of issues and injuries, mostly in my feet, and now know I need a regular date with my physio to keep things on track! I cross-train with yoga 2-3 times a week, and in the spring-summer I paddle on a dragon boat team. I’m also planning to increase strength training because that’s the piece I’m missing and that I think will be increasingly important to keep up my running and other activities as I get older!
I have been running since the mid-70s. Started out running as cross-training for hockey and eventually hockey became cross-training for running. Biggest challenge is getting back to running as I have not run for a year due to medical issues. Needless to say, one gets terribly out of shape rapidly. I get motivation from all the comments in the Friday Thread, and going through my running logs of past years. I have run in some unique places - Svalbard (78 degrees North); the cliffs of Normandy (could almost hear the battle); many European capitals; and all over the US and Canada. I have run countless races of various distances, but my favorite distance is the half. My last half was the DC Rock n Roll in 2022 where I was the oldest runner out of 10,000 - had a blast. I had planned on the Little rock 1/2 last Spring, but had to cancel. I have just started back walking and hope to progress to running and accomplish a 1/2 before the end of the year. Thanks to you all for helping me to keep motivated.
Good running in 2024!
Ken
been running for decades. i'm doing a january challenge where you have to do some sort of activity every day, even if is just a one mile walk or 20 min. workout. it is motivating me to get more running in which has been great.
Been running for the past 17 or so years. I love half marathons, and have run 23 or 25 (who’s counting?) and two marathons. My Achilles treated me badly last year, and at 47 I am learning I need to do weights if I want to keep my 20-25 mile weekly average
had the same injury and had to take a year off. i'm so hypersensitive about re-injury but so far so good. hopefully the same for you1
Snow. . .then an ice storm. . .challenges??? :)
Oops wrong button just to finish I like the half marathon the best
There are some nice trails near me. I like Lyme hollow in the spring summer and fall.
Working to stay consistent right now, work is super busy and long shifts with all the respiratory viruses around right now.
Also I appreciate Terrell and all you guys.
When did you start running?
Started running in my early 40s
How many miles/kilometers do you run every week?
Varies 10-25
What kinds of distances do you enjoy most?
Where do you like to run? Any great running spots near you?
Are there any particular challenges you’re having right now?
I began running as exercise and cardio with my daughter in 2009. I must have been in my early 60s. While she had problems with her legs and knees--a running pose I could not get used to--I did some research and found a book on Chi Running--effortless, easy, I thought I'd give it a try as the other sure did not resonate with me. 2012, I spent a 1 day workshop with Danny Dreyer and three of his Master Assistants . . .a Mother's Day Present to myself. It was the best investment I ever made! Here I am at 76 years old. I would not know any other way of running. . . still do chi walk and run. At one point, I was pushing 70 miles a month. . . now it has dropped to 30miles a month and a rowing machine, though I still am managing the 30 miles in rowing terms. Living in the steep hills of Oregon has changed my perspective on running. I walk a lot now, though I do love to run on the flat trails that are close to the river when I can get down there. Looking forward to the Eugene Half at the end of April. While I don't really enjoy flat trails, part of the Run to Stay Warm in November was along the Willamette River--very scenic and beautiful. No challenges at the moment. The weather and the terrain mostly hold me back. I've had a few setbacks last winter--they seem to be over. Let's see, I have Eugene in April, a Virtual run of 90 miles starting Feb.1 (Birds VS Bees) and a 10K along the Embarcadero in SF come July. My dance card is full until we come up with a Meet-up in the Fall! ( Skiff of snow last night, looking toward Monday when the NWS says we get a dose of freezing rain--I can hardly wait!
I've been running since fifth grade, although stopped for a bit in high school. I'm currently training for my first marathon in April so am following a plan to train for that. I enjoy medium distances (4-8 miles is my happy spot). I especially love to run at Golden Gate Park and along the beach in San Francisco. One challenge is the days are short, so it gets dark after work, so I need to get up early to run - which can be tough!
Such a great question! I’m loving everybody’s answers.
I’ve been battling a bit of insomnia lately, which is totally new to me, and I noticed that it’s way less problematic on days when I run. It’s been interesting to discover—with age and experience—how running has offered different benefits at different moments in life!
I have just started tracking a bunch of things (caffeine, exercise, alcohol, etc) in an attempt to figure out my sleep issues, so this is great to hear!
Wishing you luck as you figure this out! Solidarity 💪
Started running in 1989 after being a spectator at several MCMs and finally decided to train for and run one. Ended up running 7 marathons. In my 70s now and have settled into running and walking on alternate days. Still manage at least one half every year and a smattering of 10 milers (Cherry Blossom this year). When I worked in Georgetown (DC) I enjoyed running on the C&O Canal toe path
Would love to know where some of the 10 miles are located. I've run many half"s, but at almost 72, do not want to put my body through multiple half"s this yr.
Yeah, I remember that one. Last year it was about 28 degrees at start. Average them out and it’s a comfortable 54. I’m hoping for something comfortably in the middle next month.
When did you start running? After high school, where I did sprints and jumps, I converted to long distance while in college inspired by folks like Bill Rodgers, Amby Burfoot, Jeff Galloway and Frank Shorter. In my junior year in college - as much to shed unwanted pounds from hotdogs and beer - I began by following Kenneth Coopers theories and aerobic suggestions - going as far as to keep a calendar to his specs. By my mid 20's I had joined a team - The Syracuse Chargers and eventually The Syracuse Track Club and began marathons. I've now completed 19 marathons. And plan to do another when I turn 70 in a couple of years to continue a streak of at least one marathon in each decade since my 20's.
How many miles/kilometers do you run every week? Between 25 - 30. Using Galloways run/walk method. Once a week I'll do hill repeats and every other week speedwork on the track.
What kinds of distances do you enjoy most? They are all unique in what they ask of me. The 5k feels like a long sprint at this point! The 10k provides the most challenge to me given it's as much strategic as anything. The half marathon is a distance I have seen the Galloway methods have the most impact with. All these races, regardless of length, are a joy to run for me. In the 70's and 80's the field were dominated by males. I had assisted Title IX implementation while I was an ungrad at SU and today I am witnessing the result of decades of Title IX access. Races are now majority female and I have seen this surge as a positive development all the way around!
Where do you like to run? Any great running spots near you? I live within a mile of Long Island Sound and Niantic Bay and have quick access to shoreline routes. I also have several parks nearby which provide trail runs. Among my requirements of living location is access to a track nearby. East Lyme HS track is my happy place at the moment. For the past 8 years I have also feasted on Charlottesville High Schools track as well as University of Virginia's when it was easily accessed.
Are there any particular challenges you’re having right now? Yes, I'm trying not to race as much as I did last year and finding it difficult to pare down my desires! I have eliminated hot weather races due to its negative impact upon my post race recovery and overall energy. Given climate change? The hot weather season seems to be increasing rapidly here in New England. So it compresses races into cooler weather. I am racing in Charleston next week - where the dice is rolled and I am lucky it will be a cool day to run!
So enjoyed reading just now, you naming the Greats.... Frank Shorter was and always will be one of my hero's... I've mentioned him to people and they'll say WHO?? I met him, in Nville Tn, day before I was doing the h/m, in '13. He and John Bingham, another Great, doing Q/A session.
If it wasn't for Galloway's WRW book, I may have given up running half's,,, 3 back surgeries in 90's, and foot surgeries,,, he is an awesome coach.
I'm working through some injuries and hoping to get back into half marathon shape soon. I'm eyeing a couple trail HMs for the fall.
I’m one of those people who is in transition and not doing as well as I’d hoped (to give hope to those who are in the same boat!). I’ve been running for almost 12 years, and the half is my favorite (I quit marathons after my second one). Normally I’d like to run about 20-25 miles per week, but right now I’m on the IR while I wait on a diagnosis for my back pain. I was in the middle of getting my mileage up for a Feb half, so that is now on the back burner. I live in Burke’s Garden VA, which is in the mountains of SW VA…it has the best views, but is much more difficult to run than Charleston SC (where I previously lived) due to hills and winter weather. In addition to Charleston SC, I also highly recommend the Olentangy River Trail and Alum Creek Trail in Columbus, OH, where my brother lives. They are easily accessible, all paved, and over 20 miles long! Burke’s Garden is also awesome if you don’t mind hills - we have a 5K and half (called the Varmint Run) the second Saturday of June - come and join me!
If I can make it, I'd love to, Monte! Hope your back is on the mend and feels better soon.
Hi All,
I have been running for about 30 years, at varying levels of competitiveness (with myself)! Mileage depends on what I am training for. I did manage 2023km in 2023 (literally 2023km on 31 Dec!). Generally run 3-5 times a week 4-6 miles, with longer runs when training for a marathon or half marathon.
I am really enjoying the weekly Parkrun (5km) that is held at 8am every Saturday morning at Terry Hershey Park in Houston. You should all check out Parkrun online, it is a free, timed event every Saturday and there are thousands across the world that you can participate in. https://www.parkrun.us/
I am struggling with a knee injury at the moment (too many miles in 2023!) so not able to do the Houston Marathon which I had entered this weekend (not happy). But sure to get back running again soon!
Cheers to All.
Hi all! I started running in high school and have been at it ever since. Usualy half marathons are my jam, but I'll do an occasional marathon. Last year my goal was to run 1,000 miles and I ended up at 978. SO CLOSE! Hopefully I'll make it this year.
I started running June 2023 and was up to running 6 or 7 miles a day when I decided to train for a half marathon at my oldest daughter's urging. I ran that half in early December 2023 - my first ever. I've mentioned on here before that this follows my weight loss and fitness journey - from 325 lbs down to about 165 now, from totally sedentary to running daily and weightlifting and other workouts.
I really enjoy the challenge of longer distances, pushing myself past what I ever thought I could do before. I like road running in my small town. I live in the Waco, Texas area - right outside Waco, in Robinson, a "bedroom community," so to speak of the greater Waco area (which is actually bigger than a lot of people realize - the whole area all together, with all the little cities that make up this area, is something like 250,000+ people). But Robinson is pretty small - something like 11,000 people, and it's pretty easy to run around here (except during school traffic hours, which is usually when I'm running, so I end up sticking to my very small neighborhood on weekday mornings, just doing laps on the mile-long "circle" I live on).
My challenge right now is that I pulled my hamstring pretty badly a week before that half-marathon. I babied as best I could before the race because I was determined to meet that goal I had set for myself; it had become really important to me. I was so proud to finish that race. But that hamstring was painful, and even though I have rested it for a while, it won't heal. I have tried a few runs since, and it keeps hurting. I'm actually seeing a sports medicine specialist in a week or so, as soon as I can get in to see him! I don't want to lose my progress, and also I miss running! I'm keeping up with exercise in other ways, but I'm missing the running!
Honestly, even the mileage aside, I was probably overdoing things from a time perspective, so the forced rest has been a good thing in some ways. But if/when I'm back to strength, I'm considering doing the full marathon next December in Dallas. That feels a little crazy to me, but so did committing to the half-marathon when all I had ever run before that was about 3 or 4 miles at a time!
Grateful to have found this group - I've enjoyed sharing my progress and reading about others' journeys!
I started running about 15 years ago- and probably run 25-30 miles every week . One of the things I've really learned to enjoy is sort of medium speed base runs. I feel like I did something, but don't find myself gasping for breath. My perpetual challenge is trying to avoid injuring my legs/ankles/feet in some way while still running a lot. I tore my miniscus in my right knee about 7 years ago - and have been really cautious about how I run (and how fast I run) ever since.
I started running 10 years ago. How much I run depends on what I am training for. I like to always have something on the calendar to keep me going. Big races this year will be the London Marathon and the NYC Marathon. I was supposed to run NYC last year but a torn labrum (hip) and strained glute derailed that plan, so I will run it this year instead. Taking training for London easy and doing lots of strength work to try and avoid further issues with the hip. One of my favorite race distances is the 5 mile...more of a challenge than a 5k and don't need to train as much as for longer races. I live in the greater Cleveland area and love to run in the Cleveland Metro Parks. We have access to miles and miles of well maintained paved trails, so putting together a 20+ mile training run is super easy during marathon training. We are very lucky to have such a resource nearby. Wishing I could do the Eugene race with you all, but it's just too close to London (4/21) to work out. Have fun out there!
GO BROWNS!
I’m a former greater Clevelander myself and head back occasionally to visit relatives, catch a Browns or an Indians game (I’m not giving up easily), or for a run. I’ve done the Rock Hall half twice, the Hofbrauhaus half once, and the Browns 5k once. You can take the boy out of Cleveland, but you’ll never get Cleveland out of the boy.
It seems like the weather is always super hot and humid for the Hofbrauhaus event. I used to do the 10K, but now just do the 5K. I figure I can get through that no matter how hot & humid it is, lol! Cleveland is a great city. It has its problems, just like anywhere else, but it also has a lot going for it. And yes, GO BROWNS!
Yeah. When I did the HBH, it was a thunderstorm with pouring rain at start time. An hour later, they were about to cancel and the sky cleared so we got to go.
I'm entering the NYC lottery again this year. Fingers crossed!
Would be great to meet up another time, Stacy! I plan on doing these race get-togethers twice a year (or maybe more, if I can make it work). Hopefully we'll meet up at another one!
started in high school in 1965. Then a 10 year gap, running wasn't much of thing then. First race was with Dolphin South End runners group in San Francisco. Watched the first women's 100 x 1 mile challenge. Then years of moderate miles, 5, 10, 25, 42, 50 and 83 km races. Switched to trails after too many city 5 ks. Retired from competition in 2020. New knee in 2023. Now a fair weather runner 2-4 times a week.
When did yo get the new knee, Jerry! That’s a fast comeback! 🙌
June of 2023. It was a partial replacement on the medial side. Everything went very smoothly. I was running in August. Irony is the knee is better but my desire for the hard work has waned. But when I do get out the knee doesn't hurt. Doctor said the complete healing would take a year. If anyone is contemplating this, it helps to be in shape prior to surgery. Also, to do pre and post exercises.
Hi Terrell - on average, I run about 25 miles per week but that increases when I’m training for a half or full marathon. My favorite distance is the half marathon because it seems to bring the most crowd of spectators and I enjoy feeling the energy from them. I enjoy meeting runners that do it for fun too 😊. With that said, I’m on a journey to qualify for Boston and NY. I have already qualified for Chicago. My next big race is Mt Charleston on April 6th and this will be the BQ! I continue to target 4 half marathons in different states to hit my goal of running at least a half marathon in all 50 states - I might see you in Eugene in late April 😊! There is one problem I’m trying to figure out and that is how to increase my cadence, decrease my stride without increasing pace. It’s taking a lot of focus during a run to figure this out 🤪! Until next time, have a great weekend and happy running 🏃🏻♀️!
I ran my first half marathon (metric) in Brussels, Belgium in 1986. My current training routine is 2-3 5k runs per week. I used to do more and longer training runs, but I have now put more emphasis on strength training at the expense of cardio. Now in my 70s I have to pay more emphasis on keeping bones and muscles strong to avoid running injuries. My sweet spot for races is the 10k, with 5ks and occasional 10 milers thrown in. I like to do at least one “runcation” per year - Canada, France, Bahamas were past adventures. The area around my town of Williamsburg VA hosts many interesting races. Next month is the Colonial Half + 5k. In March I will run in the Vietnam Veterans run in Warrenton VA to honor those with whom I served in Vietnam who are disabled or no longer with us. I’m very fortunate to have no issues to interfere with my continuing fitness campaign.
40+ years of consistent fitness training is paying off.
The year I ran the Colonial Half was wild. Super warm for February. 2018. Starting line temp: 80. It's never that warm.... Yet in true homage to Murphy's law? :-) Despite the tough slug I recall the course being picturesque. Good luck!
I hope to get over to your area in the next year for family history research as well as running. What’s your favorite local race?
If you need anything while you’re in the area, let me know. Always happy to meet fellow runners and visitors to Williamsburg.
In April the “Run the DOG” 5k. DOG is Duke of Gloucester Street. Goes through the colonial area and Willian and Mary campus. In December the Busch Gardens Christmas Towne 8k dash through the park area.
My 125th half is on Sunday ... Sharkbite Half in New Smyrna Beach, FL (just south of Daytona Beach). Bittersweet ... I’ll be doing this race in memory of my brother Ward (short for Howard) who passed away this past Monday at the age of 78.5. Half is my favorite ... full is too long ... half is just right to talk with a lot of fellow runners, high-five kid spectators out with their parents, and just enjoy the sights and sounds of “wherever I am”. This is my 17th year of this nonsense!
Have a good run tomorrow.( I should have signed up for it, I need some motivation.) So sorry to hear about your brother.
It was a good day … 52 at 7:30 start of race … a little chilly for this Florida wuss who thinks anything below 70:is cold … ran for my brother …nthanks for your thoughts.
May your brothers laugh carry you forward in the late stages of your race Dave. Sympathies.
Oh, Dave -- I'm so sorry to hear about your brother. Maria is totally right, this is a wonderful way to honor him and celebrate his memory. What a wonderful brother you are!
So sorry for your loss. What a wonderful way to honor your brother.