Bay Area Run

Preparations for the Red Rock Relay are well under way. I've now dropped 21 pounds and still going! I decided I'm at a point now where it's time for the rubber to hit the road. Until now I've mainly been focused on spinning classes that provide an amazing cardio workout and is also good cross training for running. In addition I've spent a lot of time in the weight room trying to build up strength in the core, legs and upper body.

Last week while in the Bay Area for work I was blessed with a break in the bad weather and decided to hit the pavement for a run. I took the rental car around the neighbourhood where I was staying clocked out a route for running with the odometer. The next morning I took to the streets and was amazed to do 4.7 miles. My feet, calves, and upper legs hurt like crazy a day later but now I'm recovering quicker and my body is getting used to the running. Below is a jpg from Google earth that I created of my run.



Last Thursday as soon as I was back in town I ran down to Runner's Corner in Orem and purchase a pair of Saucony Progrid Rider2s. Nice shoes that I'm extremely happy with. After contemplating for a day I took them to the shoe shop and had them zero the souls. This is where they level the shoe so the heal is perfectly level with the front of your foot. The idea is that doing this to your shoes forces you to run on the mid-foot which is supposed to prevent injuries and keep you healthy. Below is a picture of the shoes:



Got the shoes back on Friday night and did a 6 mile run on Saturday. This was my longest run to date. Working hard on getting the mileage up. Not too worried about speed at this point, I figure I can always get faster and will as I continue to drop the gut and keep watching what I eat. In addition I plan to continue spinning classes a couple times a week and will hopefully add in Mtn. Biking a time or two every week. Now if only the weather will hold and the trails start to dry out!!