1. Remain injury-free
I am plagued by overuse injuries, sometimes even when my "use" isn't that high. When I start running around 35 miles a week, it can be dangerous. Part of my tendency for injury is due to the Crohn's disease, which weakens my bones. Regular pavement pounding doesn't mix well with bone density issues. However, my bones are as healthy as they've ever been. Also, as proof of progress, I recently took off a week when I felt some post-tib tendinitis in my left ankle. That I rested is a HUGE deal, because I would normally run through pain and make it worse. Ok, ok... I also had dropped a board on my foot and Wendy had had surgery the prior week, rendering me partnerless... but the important thing is that I RESTED.
I am plagued by overuse injuries, sometimes even when my "use" isn't that high. When I start running around 35 miles a week, it can be dangerous. Part of my tendency for injury is due to the Crohn's disease, which weakens my bones. Regular pavement pounding doesn't mix well with bone density issues. However, my bones are as healthy as they've ever been. Also, as proof of progress, I recently took off a week when I felt some post-tib tendinitis in my left ankle. That I rested is a HUGE deal, because I would normally run through pain and make it worse. Ok, ok... I also had dropped a board on my foot and Wendy had had surgery the prior week, rendering me partnerless... but the important thing is that I RESTED.
2. Surpass 1,000 mi. in annual mileage
I have run 81.31 mi. in 2014. Simple math says I am on track for 813.1 mi. annual mileage. However, I took off the week mentioned above, and additionally, I was not training for a race in January. My mileage is starting to increase now. Coupled with marathon training in the fall, I fully expect to reach this goal.
I have run 81.31 mi. in 2014. Simple math says I am on track for 813.1 mi. annual mileage. However, I took off the week mentioned above, and additionally, I was not training for a race in January. My mileage is starting to increase now. Coupled with marathon training in the fall, I fully expect to reach this goal.
3. PR in the Mini (under 1:54:19)
Training for the Mini (May 3) began for me yesterday with an interval run. I will have no problem covering the 13.1 mi. However, I'm nervous about the pace. I haven't really raced in months, nor have I done speedwork. Luckily, I have Wendy to guide and pace me. I've entered the 500 Festival's Training Series 15K (April 5), as well, to use as a pace run.
4. Break 1:50 in the Mini
This is an "if the stars align and all goes right with the world" goal. I know that this time (an 8:23 pace), is achievable for me. A LOT has to go right for it to happen, though. We'll see.
5. Run the Red Eye Relay
Training for the Mini (May 3) began for me yesterday with an interval run. I will have no problem covering the 13.1 mi. However, I'm nervous about the pace. I haven't really raced in months, nor have I done speedwork. Luckily, I have Wendy to guide and pace me. I've entered the 500 Festival's Training Series 15K (April 5), as well, to use as a pace run.
4. Break 1:50 in the Mini
This is an "if the stars align and all goes right with the world" goal. I know that this time (an 8:23 pace), is achievable for me. A LOT has to go right for it to happen, though. We'll see.
5. Run the Red Eye Relay
The Red Eye Relay (July 19-20) is a great 100-mi. relay race run overnight in Bloomington, Indiana. I ran it last year on Team Embrace The Chaos, and we received fifth (out of 24). It's a fun race, but VERY challenging as one is sleep deprived, the course is hilly, and it's often humid. Any mileage I run in the winter can only help for this race.
6. Break 4:30 in Monumental (and run the whole thing without passing out)
6. Break 4:30 in Monumental (and run the whole thing without passing out)
This goal will be in clearer focus when mid-summer arrives, but like Red Eye, any mileage I can run right now will only help. I know a sub-4:30 at Monumental is in me; it's just a matter of good preparation and a little luck on race day.
7. Work on the committee to stage the BMS 5K
7. Work on the committee to stage the BMS 5K
I have already secured three sponsors and am working to raise funds for the race (May 16). BMS 5K Day is one of my favorite days of the school year.
8. Encourage another person or people to become more focused on fitness
This is one of my annual goals that always stays on the list, because I want to encourage others in fitness daily. Thanks to the Bedford Half Marathon, this goal is even easier this year. I have a lot of friends, former students, and current students who are using the Bedford Half as an opportunity to run their first 13.1-mi. distance. Many message me for advice, and I'm glad to help. Also, I am helping Wendy's daughter, Amelia, train for her first half marathon, the Kentucky Derby Half, since her Mom is recovering from surgery. We're having a lot of fun!
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| Diamond Push-Ups |
9. Build more muscle
This is another of the goals that never leaves the list. Thanks to Sam at Anytime Fitness in Bedford, my muscles, especially my core, stay strong and ready to work during runs and races. I've met with her for a few sessions this year, and I have many more scheduled. I couldn't do it without her.
In summary, it looks like I'm on my way to some fun running and, likely, some successes in 2014.
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