Slowly but surely

 

I've been jogging and walking regularly for almost a year now.  I neither gain nor lose weight, and it's fine. My blood pressure is normal and my cardio vascular strength is good based on my previous treadmill stress test.  Though my body is not the same as it was 2 / 6 / 10 years ago, but I'm not complaining.  I just couldn't give up on running, or at least jogging and walking.  I want to do it for as long as I can, whether slow or slower.  This regular jog-walk exercise is helping me generate just the right level of happy hormones while working from home.  It also helped me through the second year of the pandemic when I kinda felt that I was cutoff from the rest of the world far too long.  

Now I want to start blogging again.  I really wanted to share my Berlin Marathon experience back in 2019 but I don't know where or how to start.  May be I'll figure it out soon.  For now, I just want to get that feeling of blogging again - trying to revive my online journal that was once dedicated to running, all things healthy; and at times, kinda emotional, yet therapeutic.  

Let's stay safe and healthy! 😊

Jog - walk combination for cardiovascular health.

Walking at a leisurely pace; just trying to clear my head after a day's work. 

Running and I are back together

ME:  Lace up your running shoes. Walk - jog. Follow the path.  RUNNING will find you.  

I thought it was over.  You know this, whole I-love-running phase of my life?

There was a point I thought about ditching running, because I am no longer the morning person I used to be.  My pace is no longer within 10% of my age group.  It felt like faded glory of some sort.  I registered for runs or signed up for free, but I would not make it to the start line because all I wanted was to catch up on sleep. 

However, each time I turned my back from "running", I would always come running back to it.  I gave up ignoring "running".  I just had to admit to myself that I cannot run away from it, even if I could think about 101 excuses to ditch it.  

I used to build mileage for full marathons, but it has been two years since I ran a full.  After a full marathon back in 2016, I lost all clear motivations to do some maintenance run. I lost that healthy disposition towards "running".   

And then it hit me...

Wait, I forgot about wellness while I was occupied by the very thought of transitioning from corporate to a new life path.  I was too busy, and yes, stressed, that I forgot how running cleared my head even during the most toxic work assignments in the past.  I forgot that feeling for a while, only to rediscover it after contemplating on some health-related stuff.    

ME:  If you can't run in the morning, run at night.
Now, I run even when it's late and I'm the last person to leave the gym.

I must go back to the one I love - RUNNING...and RUNNING is the very thing I have in mind whenever I sing "The Man Who Can't Be Moved" in my head.  Running is that kind of person who can't be moved - just waiting in a familiar place, hoping to be found again by that his/her special someone.  I must have missed running so much, that I'm beginning to romanticize my analogy. 

I've been running regularly on the treadmill in the last three months.  I have not hit the road yet, but the 3x-a-week treadmill deal is already progress, and enough validation that  running and I are back together.  😊

Just like in the not-so-distant past, I run on the treadmill for as long as I can or want...then I eat. Some things never change. 

Ann + Running = Forever (Version 2.0)

#AnnPlusRunningEqualsForeverVersion1  

Running has always been therapeutic.  It effectively drives unnecessary stress out of my system.  

#AnnPlusRunningEqualsForeverVersion2

I have a whole new reason to get back in shape (must), conservatively train for a half mary (nice), or aggressively train for a full marathon (extreme). 

Running has become even more personal these days, because of my new-found commitment to join the fight against the Bad 'C' - in preventive mode, of course. Whoever believes in 'an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure' is never old-fashioned.  There is a whole lot more to life.  Therefore, life is addicting.  =)

SCMS_2011 - My first offshore full marathon.  Nostalgic, as a new journey to wellness awaits.  

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#RunningAndMyFavoriteThings

I've been using these products for quite sometime.  The benefits are: safety, keeping injuries at bay, and more enjoyable runs.  

1. When I did my first three full marathons between 2011 and 2012, I was always training with the ever user-friendly Garmin Forerunner 110.  It is a complete package; it tracks time, pace, distance, and comes with a heart rate monitor.  I'm literally guarding and listening to my heart while running.  Smart.

Grabbed from Garmin.com

Just in:  I'm delighted by the news that Garmin is opening its first concept store in Manila, November 2014.  Being a runner and a self-confessed 'tapered' shopaholic (paradox), training days are more exciting with a new arm candy.  :)

2.  The best pair of running shoes I ever had (to date):  Saucony Type A5.  This pair made me believe in love at first sight...er, that I can run in minimalist shoes injury-free and live happily ever after...I felt inclined to post my first shoe review.  

However, wear-and-tear drove this lovely pair to end-of-life, and it retired from the shoe rack.  I could not find a replacement, so I am about to try its successor - Saucony Type A6.

3.  Yurbuds Inspire 300 for Women.  True to its promise - won't fall out.  It does not totally block the noise from the surroundings, for safety purposes.  

Grabbed from Yurbuds.com

4.  Injinji Performance Toesock.  Light. Comfortable. My feet are spared from blisters.

Grabbed from Injinji.com

5.  Nathan Hydration Belt.  A must-have for long distance and trail runs. What I like about it - lightweight, does not bounce, and does not cause chafing 

Nathansports.com

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Disclaimer:  This is a personal write-up; a way for me to share my experience in using the featured products.   I do not work for these brands, or any of their trade partners.

Starting Over Again

After months of attempting success for #thecubsproject, BFD and I have yet to see a new starting line called parenthood.  

Whereas infertility work up is not the most exciting medical event in the world, I had to stop training for half- and full-marathons in order to appease some hormones...in fact, I stopped running altogether.  From there, I witnessed how my fitness level dropped next to lethargic.  

I went back to my old blog to remind myself how delighted I was for every chance at running. It was the experience of being in the zone, the autonomy - the pace, distance, where I was heading (psychologically - in my life) and most importantly, the happy feeling that went with it; though sometimes I was under a lot of stress that I had to clear my thoughts while running. Rain or shine, I ran.  It was all beautiful - as if all elements were in harmony after each run. I hardly got sick, too.  

I want it back. So badly.  

I'm running again...again and again...until I get back that in-the-zone feeling.  If I stop, then I will start again.  

Oh, and #thecubsproject?  They will come when they have to.  

About 3 years ago, when running along Roxas Boulevard in Manila meant 'zoned out'.  

While running, there has to be some good music, too.  #Coldplay

Milo's Help Give Shoes Advocacy

The National MILO® Marathon is the biggest running event in the country, with an immense popularity that has attracted runners from all age groups to participate, including kids. Speaking of kids, a lot of driven young runners do not have shoes. Imagine seeing a little boy run kilometer after kilometer on rough cement barefoot. This moving scene inspired MILO® to make every year’s run more meaningful, by giving out running shoes to deserving public school children. 

The root of this advocacy lies in MILO®’s belief that they are not only providing children with running shoes, but also giving them something that they can wear to school, for sports, and other activities. It is definitely a step to help them reach their true potential and be the best that they can be. In 2010, the National MILO® Marathon provided 4,200 running shoes to public school children nationwide with the “Help Give Shoes” advocacy. Since its inception, MILO has donated a total of 34,200 pairs of shoes across the country.

The running event continues the advocacy with an aim to donate 160 pairs of running shoes to 100 students in 100 schools in select Typhoon Yolanda-hit cities —amounting to 16,000 more pairs of shoes and dreams fulfilled. In the same way that Nestle has been a part of Filipinos lives throughout generations, the National MILO Marathon invites Filipinos to be part of the cause to help make the shoe-less child today a champion tomorrow.

PhP10 from every registration fee will be allotted to the advocacy. MILO will then match the proceeds and work with the Department of Education to select 16,000 public school student beneficiaries in Tacloban, Ormoc, and Eastern Samar cities. MILO aims to reach its 50,000 advocacy mark by the end of the 38th marathon season.

Takbo na!  

Sole-searching: Inov-8 Road X-treme 118

A not-so-busy afternoon offered me and BFD the opportunity to leisurely stroll along Bonifacio High Street.  It was a given that we would check out every sporting goods boutique in the area. The longest stop was in R.O.X. - this shop has a good following for bringing in highly specialized athletic brands, including UK's INOV-8.  

The running goods section of R.O.X. is a natural magnet for people like me. I lingered on as I browsed the racing flats display wherein one brand stood out, attracting my front and lateral vision.  If I was to play a sound track in my head at that moment, then it must be about 'the love-at-first-sight cliche'. I was taken over by that sole-searching mood, a term coined to articulate my shoe-shopping activity.   I ended up fitting a quite intimidating, or should I say a very technical pair of INOV-8 Road-X-Treme 118. The code '118' signifies the actual weight of the shoe in grams.  This is the lightest pair of running shoes I have ever tried.  I was particularly concerned about durability and grip, but there is no reasonable test but to try it out on the road. Sold!  =)

Since I haven't been training for the longest time, I couldn't be more excited to hit the road once again.  This time around, with my latest 'sole-mate'...

Meowth's 'ritual':  the unveiling

INOV-8 Road-X-Treme 118:  This thing of beauty is especially designed for female runners.  Its neutral fit supports the natural tendency of my feet to slightly overpronate.  

The upper section comprises of a flexible, thin mesh layer that allows the feet to breath.  The width of the toe box is just right for me.  I'm able to spread my toes comfortably.  This is perhaps equivalent to width 'B' in the US shoe size chart.  (For casual shoes, I go for size 7.5 B.  In 118, this corresponds to size 8.5).

Sole at its bare minimum - the Road X-Treme trademark. No gel or extra side stitches, just soft and flexible base.

A zero drop means there is no difference in the height of the forefoot and heel off the ground. The toes and heel are kept at the same level. There is no extra cushion on the heel.  This is said to be effective in training the feet to achieve a more natural running form.  

Based on the specifications published by INOV-8, the Fusion Sole consists of Lite Rubber and EVA foam.  The sole is said to be high-grip, too.  I will be able to test this claim once I get the chance to run in the rain, or after a heavy rain.  

Time to hit the road!  \m/

How would I rate this pair?

Overall rating:  4.5 / 5.0

Performance:  It offers everything I would expect from a pair of minimalist racing flats - very light at 118 grams, comfortable toe box, best fit, breathable mesh lining, zero drop that encourages a mid foot strike, and good traction on cement and asphalt.

Style:  The white-blue-purple-neon green combination gave the shoe a refreshing lift.  It's not screaming.  

Durability: Not (yet) applicable.  It has to earn some mileage before I can put something in this section.

Why I run?

I simply love running. It's an instant stress reliever.  

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Disclaimer:  This is a personal write-up, not a paid advertisement.

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You might also be interested in this article:

Shoe Review:  Saucony Type A5 

HPness!

It was early Sunday morning, and my feet were pounding the familiar streets of BGC.  I stopped running for a while and this was the first in several months.  

My memory sent me back to 2005, then 2008.  It's now 2013.  I had no idea that every piece of it would soon be over after eight years.  Memories, whether good or bad, prevented me to keep track of my run time.  I was temporarily lost with thoughts from the past until I caught a glimpse of the finish line. I was trying to clear my head.  My idea of 'clearing my head today' was to race in the 3 KM category.  It never felt this good.  I was racing, winning, and having fun...moving forward to a better life.  

What made it more exciting to reach the finish line for this race - I felt I found my new second home.  HPness!  =)

My first fun run in 5 months. It was not just about winning, but gaining the autonomy and perspective as to where I wanted to grow my career.  Happy and Progressive.  HP.  

A winning partnership (by God's Grace).  <3 font="">

Shoe Review: Saucony Type A5

I want to run, jog, or at least brisk walk until old age. I've always been keen about keeping injuries at bay. Experience taught me the importance of wearing a pair of shoes that is most suited for my feet. My happy feet are classified as neutral with a mild tendency to overpronate. 

I was skeptical about minimalist racing shoes since I started running.  I thought of it as that type which could injure my feet, and that it was designed for elite athletes only.  I'm referring to those (mostly) bright-colored, thin-soled shoes donned by elite runners in last year's London Olympics. Impression. 

Oh, but I drooled over those shoes....they are so cool!  I couldn't help but think about buying a pair every time I pass by any specialty shops. Tempting.  I wonder what 'magic' they bring.  Until the thought became frequent...I finally gave in and bought my first pair.  It was love at first sight.

Amazing beauty! Performance doesn't mean boring.  =)

I got tired of reading so many shoe articles - theory overdose, but no action.   Armed with basic knowledge of minimalist shoes, I let my senses guide me in the selection process.  After two trips to the shoes section, my feet found its solemate - Saucony Type A5. It's super light weight, thin-soled.  Surprisingly, it provides the right amount of cushioning to protect my feet from harsh elements.  After 40KM of running in A5, I can now share without apprehension, that I finally found the perfect pair of racing flats to go with my restless but happy feet. =)



Saucony's FlexiFilm overlays, which effectively reduced weight in the upper portion (based on manufacturer's specifications).

The soles allow my feet to breathe.  The design is also suited for running in the rain; it offers good traction for wet roads - whether cement or asphalt.  The soles act as drainage, my feet don't get soaked. 
I can run...rain or shine! =)

Shoe width is neither wide nor narrow.  I don't have to worry about discomfort attributed to a wide or narrow toe box.  (I go for width 'B' - American shoe size chart).  

Manufacturer's Specifications

Weight: 5.2oz / 148grams; Color: White / Purple / Black / Blue

Description: Saucony's lightest racing flats; designed for running and triathlon.  FlexiFilm overlays help reduce weight in the upper portion.

Other color options for women:

How would I rate this pair of shoes?

Overall Rating: 4.5 / 5

Performance: 5.0 - I've been trying to re-introduce speed to my maintenance runs.  A5 seems to help in a way that my feet don't need to deal with excess weight (other than my body weight, of course).  A5 doesn't hurt my feet.  It acts like a guide for my feet to achieve (almost, almost!) consistent landing - mid foot strike.  

Style: 4.5 - It's the coolest pair in my shoe cabinet. 

Durability: 4.0 - Right now, it's a 4.0 - still has some things to prove in terms of durability.  The pair has to measure up with those shoes that I used in my first three full marathons. 

Why I run

Running is an effective stress-buster. It's fun, healthy, and it feels even better when I'm able to stretch the time to cover a longer distance.  I have a colorful history of competing in badminton, but not in running where I only have one competitor - myself.  =)

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Disclaimer:  I do not work for Saucony, or any of its PR outfit or subcontractors.  The article presented here is a personal write up.  This is not a paid advertisement. 

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You might also be interested in these articles:

Running for Keeps -- 101% sugar & spice, a case of running for love and in-love while running :)

My Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore Anniversary  -- from my old blog

Minsan lamang ako mag-full marathon -- from my old blog

Running for Keeps

Recently, I've been receiving advice from family and friends in the medical profession.  They're trying to talk me out of an impending full marathon (FM) training.  

Training for an FM could be more challenging now, as I've been wanting to see some significant improvement with the way I run - and how far and fast I could run.  I was logging longer mileage and faster pace in 2011 - something which I wasn't able to do in 2012.  Should I pursue an FM training plan today, the gamble is in its unpredictable impact to my endocrine system (that system responsible for hormones).  In the past, I didn't bother about delivering my first baby at mid-30s...Now, I need to slow down, get fresh perspective, and enjoy life all the more.  Science is convincing, and so are those people around me who are truly concerned.  I've made a deliberate decision to cut back on training as I open myself up to living a healthier lifestyle. 

Lower mileage and almost zero badminton in the last 7 months - a scenario that allowed for unwanted pounds to inch their way into my system.  I couldn't dwell on frustration. I keep telling myself that I have every reason to stay fit - one of which is to prepare my body and mind to juggle responsibilities of being a homemaker, career woman, and life partner to BFD. There's also this exciting possibility...hopefully, in God's perfect plan (ah, next year?) - I could be running for two.

BFD and I still manage to run together, about 2 - 3 times a week. Running is already a staple in our relationship. Thus, running for keeps. 

I couldn't help but reminisce how our friendship developed through blogging and running...



Runners/bloggers exchanging thoughts...nothing else =)

August 2012.  Our first road race as a couple - 32KM - The Afroman Distance.
It was raining all throughout the course.  We called it 'blessing'.

October 2012 - Our first full marathon as a couple. Lack of training and injury did not stop me from reaching the finish line. Bothered by sprain in my left ankle, BFD wanted me to stop at KM34.  I told him that I could tolerate the pain, and we should enjoy the rest of the course as if it was a Sunday morning date - a walk in the park, literally.

November 2012 - BFD said it would be like this soon. I might need to take a break from running, in order to train for a very special finish line known as, delivery date.

January 2013 - Friends expected a prenuptial photo shoot at MOA or BGC - running gear, running shoes, lotsa' running...but we tried to depict a turn-of-the-century (circa 1900) tableu of a free-spirited couple, running in spring time bliss (though we don't have 'spring season' in 'Pinas). 

2013 BDO Race for Life

Run for a cause!



http://www.bdo.com.ph

 

To register, please follow this link: https://www.bdo.com.ph/raceforlife

 

Info from BDO website

 

 

Race Map