I Run

Our two thermometers - one too hot, the other too cold - averaged yesterday's mid-day temperature at 10F. Urk. I didn't feel like dressing up, so figured I'd run up and down the hall a few bazillion times to get in my workout. Not too bright, especially since I ran it barefoot. So when I woke up this morning, the balls of my feet and my calves were killing me. And my nose was stuffy. That didn't bode well.

Since I was going to shoot for 15 miles today, I figured I should take along my water in the new CamelBak the girls got me for Christmas. This was the first time I'd run with it and after the first mile told myself that if Elly drove by I'd unload it. I felt that it weighed me down. At around two miles I took my first sip. The bite valve was filled with ice, but I managed to chew it down and draw down some water from the pack. I threaded the hose behind the strap across my chest to keep it from freezing any more.

Eventually, my legs felt better, and having water along the way I think helped to keep me energized. When Elly did drive by, I kept the CamelBak. I finished the 15 miles at just under 9 minute pace, which was better than I thought I'd do.

I'm not sure I'll do all my long runs with the CamelBak since I'm afraid that I'd grow dependent on it. On the other hand, having immediate access to water does help to keep my body strong, which means better quality workouts. So maybe.

# posted by jm @ 7:29 PM