Running in the Rockies

The blogging thing isn't working so well for me. Finding it hard to remember to log in and summarize my work outs  and runs in the evening and usually don't have time during the day. I am going to attempt to be better starting today! 

Actually today was my first day back in almost 2 weeks. I pulled or tore a lower back muscle trying to move a futon frame in order to extract my cat for a vet appointment. He took one look at the cat carrier and took off under the futon.. I would have been more mad- but he's so cute. Anyways, it was the worst back pain I have ever had.. probably means I need more core work. Was pretty much immobile for 4 days and took it easy for another week or so. My usual PT can't see me until the end of next week. I'd say it's about 80% right now.. I still can't do leg lifts for core work or stretch in the same way before pulling the muscle, but walking and running is feeling okay. The run felt uber slow today and I am sure it was (Garmin was dead since I haven't used it in so long).  I was also running with the pup- I've decided we need to go to some sort of training together because he refuses to accept the idea that he can run beside me (he wants to run in front of me and cut me off every 5 steps, in addition to pulling and marking every other tree he passes). Anyways- I'm at my limits of what I know about dog training, I think we need a professional.

AM: ~7 miles in probably ~10 min pace.. some of the uphill miles were likely even slower. Probably need to re-evaluate the marathon schedule for the fall/winter. sigh.

AM: Lifted weights, core work

P.M. Easy 4, ~9:20 pace

Unintended day off. Hectic work day and then had to wait for the delivery of new fridge, washer, and dryer.. very exciting! Should have run in late PM- but hanging out and watching a movie w/ sig. other was much more enticing.. 

AM: 4.3 miles, ~11:02 avg pace

AM: Hamstring, glutes, hip, & calf exercises, core work, weights- upper body & arms

 My easy runs consist of running the roads and trails near my house (also at ~8,600'). It feels like most long days are actually easier than the short days because I try to find a flat(er) place to run.. but still at ~8,500'. I probably should run on the plains a couple times a week to see if I can get my legs to turn over a bit faster and get a better pace going. Although, I prefer hills and less oxygen over heat..and the plains are always ~10 degrees hotter than where I live in the mountains. It's often not a very difficult decision to make.