Opting outside for the win!
It's summer, after all. As I've said a time or two (or several), I've waited a good nine months for this weather. I'm not going to "enjoy" it from the confines of my house.
Quite honestly, there's no place I'd rather be than outside. Fortunately, this past week afforded me the opportunity to take my workouts outdoors, on a daily basis. Let's just say there was a whole lot of sweating and smiling going on.
Before I give you all the details, welcome to the Weekly Run Down!
I love hosting this link-up with Deborah (from Confessions of a Mother Runner)! If you write a fitness-based blog, you're invited to join the party. The link-up opens at 1:00 (EST) on Sundays and remains open through noon on Monday. We love reading about everyone's weekly fitness endeavors, training highlights (or low lights) and race recaps. We ask that you link back to both hosts, and we encourage you to read/comment on the other linked blogs as well...please don't link-drop & dash ;-)
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Anyways, here's what went down in my little world of fitness this week:
Monday - outdoor 5K rime trial #11
Okay, this run felt oh-so-good! The temps were warm and muggy (71F, with 78% humidity) at 5:30 a.m. and there was a 13mph wind out of the south (of course, there was wind LOL). Although my finish time was a good minute "slower" than what it felt like, I'm totally fine with everything. These 5K's have showed me how much grit, determination and commitment I have, so what's not to love? This week's theme of Perseverance was spot-on. One more 5K remains...stay tuned!
Tuesday - outdoor (recovery) walking
With a recovery day on tap, my day started with a 2-mile walk with the hubby and Max. There also was another 2-mile walk after work. My walk streak was re-ignited on April 16th, and I have been able to walk outside every day since. Walking is one of those cardio fixes that also doubles as an awesome recovery tool (at least it does for me).
Wednesday - outdoor full-body strength
Upon bedtime on Tuesday night, Wednesday's early morning weather look rather frightful...65% chance of rain, including thunderstorms (for several hours). Barb and I decided to move our #5at5 run to Thursday, so I planned to do a strength workout in the morning instead. Well, the rain and storms were both a no-show, so I took my workout to the patio. I did several sets of weighted lunges and squats and incorporated upper-body strength moves as well (curls, rows, presses, etc.). Twenty minutes was all it took and everything was burning and throbbing when I headed back inside...just in time, because the rain came soon after.
Thursday - Doing an outdoor double
With nearly a full day of heavy rain (over four inches, just in the morning) from Wednesday, the temps did a massive plummet. It was 55F, and the air was quite damp, when Barb and I met up for our 5-miler at 5:00 a.m. Remember Wednesday's strength workout? Yeah. I must have squatted and lunged with gusto, because there were some definite DOMS along with me for that run. By late morning, the dampness had dissipated, and the temps were back to a more "seasonal" level.
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After work, I'd planned on doing some stairs at the outdoor stairway (nearby, on the college campus). Imagine my surprise when the hubby asked if he could come along! So, we made the adventure into a brick workout (of sorts)...we power walked a mile, did 30 flights of stairs, and power walked another mile back home. These stairs are more challenging than a typical indoor stairway. The rise of each step is a bit steep, and the length of each step is somewhat elongated. Single-stepping these is comparable to double-stepping an indoor stairway. Oh, and there are 18 steps (most indoor stairwells have 10-12). Just saying. The clincher? He wants to go back and do this workout again, possibly on a weekly basis (please excuse me as I pat myself on the back LOL).
Friday - early morning outdoor recovery ride
Believe it or not, I was still feeling the effects of Wednesday's strength workout. With a long run on the agenda for Saturday, I wasn't planning on anything heavy duty for Friday, but a 10-mile bike ride was a perfect option to flush the legs out further and give them some low-impact action. The morning temps were chilly for a ride (55F...brrr!), but the sky was clear and the sunrise was pretty incredible.
Saturday - Grinnell Games virtual 13.1 (obviously outside)
Every year, our town hosts a weekend of sporting events, appropriately called the Grinnell Games. Every year (except for the two years I ran Grandma's Marathon) I have made it a point to participate. With all the COVID crap this year, these events had to go virtual, but the bulk of the proceeds went to support our local healthcare workers. Barb and I decided to run the half marathon. We met up at 6:30 and spent the next couple of hours enjoying the sunshine and battling the wicked wind.
Sunday - sunny recovery run (and walk)
Again, the wind was still having attitude, and the temps were still a bit chilly for this time of year, but the sun was shining brightly. Much to my surprise, my body felt "normal," like I hadn't run 13.1 miles 24 hours prior. Maybe it was last night's bike ride (see below)? None the less, I knew a recovery run would serve me well so I laced up and got a couple of miles done. The hubby and Max were waiting for me at home, so we walked a couple of miles as well.
The week played out nicely. Although most days the weather felt more like late September (temps in the 50's most mornings), things were still quite comfortable. The running went well (24 total miles). Walking was marginal (16 miles as of Sunday morning, but more on tap for later) and biking saw 23 miles of action. Wednesday's strength workout felt great, even with the consequential DOMS. And the stairs? I'd forgotten how much I miss climbing, so I'm going to bring those back consistently (and bring the hubby along with me).
In case you missed out, here's what all went down on the blog this week:
In other news:
Friday Fashion Flair...had me featuring an outfit worn earlier in the week. I'm excited to be back in sleeveless tops and shorts...anyone else? Instead of the basic black and khaki shorts, I have been adding shorts of different colors. What do you think of these mustard-ish ones? Although I wouldn't wear these to work (a tad bit too short...see what I did there?), they're great for many other business-casual outings. As always, you're welcome to join me on Fridays...post a pic on Instagram, grab the hashtag (#FridayFashionFlair) and be sure to tag me (@runningonthefly).
Saturday afternoon, the hubby got the idea to check out a bike trail an hour away. Even though I was in recovery mode from the 13.1 miles earlier, I was game. After all, biking has been another great recovery vice in my arsenal. We arrived at the trail head around 7:00, and rode about four miles to a nearby town and had dinner, then rode back. Eight miles on the wheels, so not a huge undertaking, but a scenic adventure (complete with a turtle spotting and three deer bolting across our path). The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a popular tourist attraction along the path, and is lit up at night.
So, another week is under my belt. I got word this week that the Air Force Marathon decided to cancel (or go virtual for those interested), but we have the option of deferring to 2021. I can't say I'm surprised, but I'm definitely disappointed. I'm at odds as to seeking out another fall marathon (knowing full well NO marathons may be happening this year) or just taking a year off from marathon training. Decisions, decisions. First world probs, right?
How was your week? Summer-like temps? Rain? Any virtual racing? More race cancellations?
Congrats on getting your hubby hooked on the stairs! And nice half in spite of the wind! How did you set up the race, was it an out and back or did you do loops past your houses for water, etc? I'll be cheering you on virtually tomorrow for your final 5k of the series.
ReplyDeleteThe half marathon route (usually used for this race) is a 6.5-mile loop that they run twice, so we ran the loop once and kind of winged the other 6.5 miles on our own. WE did stop at my house near the halfway point for a potty break ;-) Yes, I'll probably have a goofy smile on my face, while I run, knowing it's the LAST one!!!
DeleteGood work! We've had thunderhail, rain rain rain RAIN and sun yesterday when I walked to visit two friends, then warmth and horrible mugginess today when I wanted to (and did) run 10 miles. Let's hope it's more settled next week. Love reading your updates even though I'm not ready to resume mine yet.
ReplyDeleteThe mugginess is definitely tough! After my Monday run last week, things were pretty mild (though windy). Not sure which is worse LOL
DeleteWell I am impressed that you have kept up those 5k's for 11 weeks now! We had a much better outdoor weather week over here as well. Have to take advantage before it gets too hot
ReplyDeleteEven though it was a bit cool most mornings last week, I'm glad it warmed up by lunch.
DeleteI’m sorry about your marathon, although sadly not surprised. How awesome that you inspired your husband! I’ve yet to rub off on mine although he’s much better about walking th3 dogs these days.
ReplyDeleteI think cycling is actually great for recovery!
I was so surprised when he asked to go with me to the stairs ;-) Then, the next day he said he wanted to do it again, and I told him it's best to do those intense workouts (outside in the heat, with the more challenging incline, etc.) ONCE a week and certainly not on back-to-back days. Stay tuned...we'll see how long this lasts LOL
DeleteGreat job on those 5k time trials!! We had some good weather here most of the week which made such a difference. So sorry about the AF Marathon. Definitely disappointing.
ReplyDeleteThe AF Marathon is disappointing, but I hadn't technically started training for it yet, so I don't have anything vested in it (other than the registration, which I deferred). It seems to be the norm this year, so I'm just going with it.
DeleteSorry to hear about Air Force, I know that was long time bucket list for you.
ReplyDeleteWhile I'm not as much of team summer heat as you, I wholly agree that outside is better. I've "played outside" every day this week whether for fitness, reading or both and it's essential for mental health.
Do you have direct control over your AC to not be frozen in sleeveless? That's always A Thing for summer here
I have a black cardi I keep at the office, so I always have something to cover up with...I'm always cold. Which, ahem, is why I much prefer the heat of summer (preferably outside) ;-)
DeleteOh yeah, going outside to warm up is A Thing. The reason I think I prefer shoulder season is it's easier to warm up than cool down.
DeleteScooby always gets my day started outside, but I haven't taken my weights outside. What a fun idea to ride your bikes to/from dinner. Great going on the Half!
ReplyDeleteI kept the outdoor strength workout pretty uncomplicated using just one set of hand weights. I just varied the number of reps (depending on the difficulty of the moves). If I'd have needed multiple sets of dumb bells, it wouldn't have happened outside LOL
DeleteWell done on your second last 5k Monday run. I will miss your weekly reports on these! (but I bet you won't, LOL)
ReplyDeleteSo cool that your husband joined you for the stairs! And wants to do more! How cool is that?
It was fun introducing him to the stairway (this outdoor one is named Mavis, BTW). I am SO GLAD tomorrow's 5K is the grand finale!!!!!
DeleteI'm so sorry about your marathon. Yes it's to be expected, I guess, but like you said, disappointing all the same. How fun that hubby went with you for the stair workout!
ReplyDeleteYes, the AF Marathon verdict was a disappointment, but also a bit of a relief since I don't have to think about it until next year. My official training hadn't started yet, so now I have a full summer of nothing on the calendar....
DeleteGreat week of workouts as usual! Also I love that photo of you and your hubby :)
ReplyDeleteI was super bummed for you when I found out about the canceled Air Force Marathon :(
It will be weird to have to wait an entire year for the AF Marathon now...worse things could happen, though. With everything else getting cancelled, there's not much FOMO to worry about #GlassHalfFull ;-)
DeleteOh, man! I can't believe you have done ELEVEN 5k time trials! Way to go! You are dedicated. So sorry the Air Force Marathon was canceled. I think if you want to do a marathon this fall, you are going to have to search out a small one. I have been getting emails for real in-person races happening in less-populated areas of our state this month and next. the races are all small (there must be less than 250 runners) and there is no pre- or post-race gatherings but they are taking place. I think running a virtual marathon would be TOUGH!
ReplyDeleteThe thing is...in Iowa there really aren't many options close by. I am considering the IMT Des Moines (mid-October). I'm registering for the half, but will see what I'm thinking/feeling a month or so from now. I could always upgrade to the full...or not. That's assuming that will go as scheduled LOL
DeleteGlad you were able to get outside and enjoy the weather! June can be wonderful! Not quite as muggy (usually!) Great variety this week and congrats on your virtual races!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to be outside!!!!! Although it was cooler this week, I"ll gladly take the heat over the cold any day. NO debate!!!
DeleteHow fun that you got your husband to join you for a stairs workout - and bonus that he wants to do it again :)
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear about your marathon - like you said not surprising but still disappointing. I'm glad they gave you the option to defer. I'm still waiting to see what Detroit Free Press is going to do - it's scheduled for mid-October but can't imagine the way races are going that it will go off.
Thanks for the link-up!
Yes, I really wasn't surprised when the AF Marathon finally cancelled. Honestly, we're fooling ourselves to believe any race of that magnitude will happen in 2020. I'm alright with it deferring...just not sure what else will be happening this summer LOL
DeleteBummer about your marathon. My husband is signed up for the Marquette marathon (Mich). It's Labor day, but as far as they claim it's still on. I'm pretty sure it will cancel, which would be great because my husband is in no shape to be training for a marathon right now!! Fun workouts with your husband this week. A bike ride to a meal sounds great! Very cool bridge.
ReplyDeleteI'm bummed about AF Marathon...but it is a little enticing to not have to deal with l.o.n.g. (15+ miles) runs for another year LOL
DeleteThat's a bummer about your marathon. I just had another half go virtual and I expect all mine to be that way this year.
ReplyDeleteThat is awesome that you have inspired your hubby. I have not but at least he does play tennis.
I wish I could get the hubby to run more consistently. He registers for a few races, but seldom trains as much as he should...then he's penguin-walking for a week afterwards LOL
DeleteThat's a bummer about your marathon! I'm hoping mine will happen in November, although who really knows at this point. Daily walks are the best in summer!
ReplyDeleteYes to all the walking!!!! I will be really surprised to see much for racing happening, even in areas of "low" COVID cases. A bummer of a reality.
DeleteSo sorry about your marathon, but it sure isn't a surprise. Ugh. i hope my trail race doesn't get cancelled. How nice that your hubs wanted to join you for your stair workout!
ReplyDeleteI have a back-up option for October...but I'm not too optimistic that will hold, either. Thankful that races are not a requirement for running ;-)
DeleteI'm so sorry that the Air Force Marathon is canceled. Are you going to defer or run it virtually? I think I'd defer because I'd miss the event excitement running a race of that magnitude virtually.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the linkup and I hope you have a great week!
Oh, that's a definite deferral LOL There's no way I'd want to run those miles without a real race course (a half marathon is a different story LOL).
DeleteIt's nice to be able to be outside so much these days! Congrats on the virtual half. Glad you could bring your hubby along for the stair workout and that he enjoyed it! Sorry about your marathon. I really wonder what, if any, races will happen this fall!
ReplyDeleteI'm usually a glass-half-full gal, but I'm also a realist (whomp whomp). Maybe a few small local races, but none of the "big" crowd-infested events like we're used to. IT's a bummer, but hopefully only for 2020...
DeleteWe had a big storm on Tuesday evening to a point that I honestly thought the big tree in front of my house was going to fall. It was that windy. Bummer about your marathon but it seems like no "big" races will happen this year.
ReplyDeleteJust one more 5k, right? I wonder if they will extend it again?
Our wind was crazy last week...and it's still here (as of Monday at noon).
DeleteMaybe your hubby will want to run that stair race (sorry I forgot the name) with you next year. I'm sorry you marathon was canceled but it seems to be the way of the world this year.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to have him join me for the Fight for Air Climb! We'll see how many more of these stair workouts he does first LOL
DeleteYou're doing great on the 5k time trials! I'm still jealous that you get 55 degree weather in June. I wish we had that here!
ReplyDeleteHubby has been doing quite a bit with you lately! well done!
ReplyDeleteI didn't realise you and Barb had run a Half on Saturday. JEEZ!!!
Glad you've got your summer. I know how much you love it! It's typical Dutch iffy weather one day, hot and muggy the next here :)