Thursday, October 28, 2010

Back to Basics



 Based on the cooler temps and all the leaves on the ground, I would say fall season is finally here.  My running has been simple and basic with no races on the horizon.  Usually I’m thinking about my upcoming races, the terrain, challenges, and modify me training to best prepare me.  During my runs, I’m thinking about pushing a little harder on the hill repeats and tempo runs, going a little longer on the long runs to get me mentally ready and boost my confidence, and adjusting my fuel intake to find what works best for changing conditions.  I must admit it has been relaxing not worrying about any of this and just running for the love of running.  No watch, no HR monitor, and no worries of time or distance:  Just simply running and getting back to basics.

The other night I had the best surprise, my just turned teenage daughter (Renee) says “Dad, let go for a run.”  Trying not to act too excited, I said see you in 5.  It was dark out but the streetlights gave off plenty of light for our 2 mile trip to the end of the street and back.  I let her set the pace, and must say a strong pace she set.  Her running form was simple, natural, and strong.  When I was a kid, the thought of my dad taking me running was so remote.  Something I will not miss out on when given the chance with my kids.  Afterward, she thanked me for the run and looked forward to the next.  How can life get any better then this!

And it did!  After our run, my son (Josh) said “Dad, lets hit the weights – wrestling is around the corner.”  To the weight room I said as we slid the weights on the Olympic bar and start our routine.  I was sore the next day, and it reminded me how much I’ve neglected my upper body.  So, for the remainder of this year, I’m going to concentrate on maintaining my running base with simple runs, and getting my core and upper body back into shape.  This will serve me well as I evaluate which races to run for 2011.
Hope you all are enjoying the cooler temps and lower humidity as much as I am.

13 comments:

Hone said...

Great post. Just run for the love of running.

Every Monday night my son and I run a 3 mile mountain loop. We do the same run every week and just spend time talking and shooting the breeze. I look forward to this more than any other run.

Ronda said...

Awesome on all accounts. I am still waiting for Alex to ask me to go for a run but I swear it's coming. :) Enjoy Dad!

Char said...

How lucky you are to get to exercise with your kids! I got to run Sydney half marathon with my middle son in September and it was one of the best days ever.

Anonymous said...

That must've felt so great spending that kind of time with your kids! One of those "live in the moment" kind of things.

Charisa said...

Running just to run is the best. Enjoy.

Black Knight said...

Great post, I like to train with my children too (31 y.o. son, 26 y.o. daughter).
Sometimes running only for fun, enjoying the landscape without clocks, garmin ecc is the best relax.
Anyway "HI" from a collegue (20 years in the Italian Navy).

Beth said...

That's great that you were able to spend special time with your kids- and it was their idea! Wonderful to get back to basics with the running, too. Glad you are doing well!

Kenley said...

I would hope that when I do have some kids, they will want to participate in some shape or form. It's funny you mention weights. I did that for the first time in a long time and was sore for a week. lol. I love doing a bit of running with out a watch as I concentrate more on form and breathing and just running. Have fun with upper body work outs. As for 2011, I have a big one coming up to commemorate the Bataan Death March in the PH. Take care.

Julie @ HotlegsRunner said...

Thank you for stopping by my site and for the comments. I will add you to my blog roll. Looking forward to more posts from you =)

DawnB said...

I am in your glory, I pray for the day when such events would take place with my husband and children. You are a lucky man moments to cherish forever.

john reinhold said...

sounds great just running to run!

brooks running said...

Running is a wonderful thing..for me it makes my life complete. I love running..great that you run with your daughter..it's more exciting.

shannon said...

Although I never actually do it, I love the idea of running without a Garmin. Just running, ... but then, how far have I gone ... at what pace .... ? :)