If Only

Essential Run Gear

1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8
2. PowerStep Insoles
3. DeFeet Cush Lo
4. RaceReady LD Sixer Shorts
5. RaceReady CoolMax Alta-T
6. Headsweats Cap
7. Brooks ShoePocket
8. Brooks Podium Vest
9. BodyGlide
10. RunKeeper iPod and DailyMile
11. Gatorade Rain

New CMM Course

RunKeeper

During my long run today, I tried the new version of RunKeeper for the first time. This is a great app for the iPhone, available in both a stripped-down free version and an amped-up “pro” version costing a whopping $9.99.

The application uses the GPS capabilities of the 3G iPhone to plot the course, time, pace, and distance of any run. It also works for cycling--a huge advantage over something like the Nike+.

The app allows a user to create a personal page on the RunKeeper.com website where all the tracking, social networking, and communicating features you might expect are available. In addition, the site provides GoogleMaps archives of each run which can be shared, linked, posted, displayed, and cross-referenced.

During the run, there are pause and lock features--both vitally important. And the display is large and easy to read. The “pro” version even has audio prompts (though unlike the Nike+ they’re not recorded by Lance Armstrong). And of course, it is very easy to toggle between the app and other iPod and iPhone functions.

The only real disadvantage of RunKeeper, is that you have to run with the iPhone in tow. That’s not such a problem in the winter with all the pockets and MP3-ready features of most jackets and vests. But, in the spring, summer, and fall, what to do with the little brick is an issue--oh sure, there are readily available arm straps, belt clips, and fanny packs. But each of those solutions have inherent drawbacks.

All-in-all though, I really like this application and will look forward to using it in my final six weeks of training leading up to the Country Music Marathon at the end of April.

Totally Different

"We are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon." --Emil Zatopek

Classic Run

“What greater glory attends a man than what he wins with his racing feet and striving hands?” --Homer

That's All

“All that running can do for you is make you healthy.” --Denny McLain

Jump-Start

“Running is a great way to jump-start my day, boost my energy, and have a few minutes to plan and prioritize my schedule.” --Michael Dell

A First-Timer's Training Plan for the Half

No Excuses

“Don’t use the excuse, ‘I don’t have the time.’ Getting up an hour earlier is tough for about a month; then it becomes routine, and you’ll actually feel better for it.” --Howard Elakman

In Training

"Everyone is an athlete; the only difference is that some of us are in training and some are not.” --George Sheehan

Schedule It

“Just as you write down other important appointments, you need to literally pencil in time for your run. The process itself is empowering. In the few seconds it takes to scribble run into a time slot, you make running a part of your life.” --Jeff Galloway

Long Live Runners!

According to a new study from the Stanford University School of Medicine runners live longer, healthier, more productive lives than non-productive lives. No surprise there. But, it also showed that runners have no greater risk of injury--to their knees, their back, their ankles, or their feet. Indeed, elderly runners have fewer disabilities, a longer span of active life and are half as likely as aging nonrunners to die early deaths, the research found.

Every non-runner I know asks about my knees--and then marvels that I'm not more hobbled than I am. At last, I now have the empirical data for me to point them toward as I encourage them to join me in hitting the road!

Committed with 16 Weeks to Train

OK. I just committed myself. I've signed up for the 2009 Country Music Marathon. I now have sixteen weeks to train--which may sound like a long, long time but, from past experience, those weeks invariably fly by and the need for significant milage always seems to sneak up on me.

Run Early

“When you have a packed schedule, run as early in the morning as you can. Later you won’t find time. Besides, it’s a nice way to wake up.” --Joan Benoit Samuelson

The GIGO Principle

“You only get out of running what you put into it--no pain no gain.”
--George Sheehan

Going Long

“Not all runners can go faster, but everyone can run longer. It’s pacing, patience, and persistence, more than talent, that allows you to cover longer distances.” --Joe Henderson

Planning for 2009

“Smart goals are specific, measurable, realistic, written out, and should have a deadline or a timeframe.” --David Yukelson

More St. Jude Pix

Recovery Week

It is cold, snowy, and blustery in Middle Tennessee this week. Perfect weather for a recovery week. I’ll start the training regimen for my next marathon sometime next week. But quite frankly, I already miss my runs–bad!