Trail Running Challenges

Doing some leg work on trail running. I’ve hiked a thousand trails but have only run a few. And even though I love the closeness to nature – I do not run in the woods.
My first trail race was along a x-c ski trail so there were lots of climbs and dips. It was a test not to twist my ankle on the uneven surfaces. Needless to say, I was extremely sore that next day.

There are some reasons (excuses) why I don’t trail run:

• One is the lone factor. It just isn’t safe for a female alone in the woods. Unfortunately – I have not found a group of trail runners here in Eugene.
• The other excuse – I wear progressive lenses / contacts. No, this does mean I’m hip; but that I have “geometric distortions" in my visual field. Which means my full view perspective is interrupted. I could accidentally trip over a root.

Despite these issues I’m seriously thinking about adding this challenge to my routine. (Besides If I break my wrist and can take time off work : )
Next thing to ponder -> trail running shoes.

There is a local trail race next month - only a 7K

Resources:
Trail runner
Trail running day
Trail running soul
Training: Trail Running

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I Love Outside

Who needs Runner’s World when you have Outside!
Reasons I Love Outside
They cover all the bases – hiking, biking, fitness - real nice pictures, must go destinations and even book reviews!
(Plus - Very little marathon chatter.)
This months issue includes the much anticipated

Part Two – The pillars of fitness.

I really like the weekly workout suggestions:

Good old LSD - Apparently not as renowned as it once was.
Core and Strength Work – Done on days you are NOT running! (Like twice a week.)
Intervals - Including max (fast) and threshold (still fast) levels.
Started this challenging workout today! I will include just one interval session a week – then work up to 2, as suggested, if I don’t injured or exhausted.

Pick up this months issue for details. Outside May 2009

Part one: Building a Base is online.

Ku
cool
an old white dog
in the shade

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Lance Continues to Inspire

It seems lately Lance Armstrong’s face is everywhere.
[My latest issue of Outside.]


Last September, he confirmed he was going to re-enter the racing circuit which included the 2009 Tour de France !
He’s battled with cancer – now he’s taking on the aging process. At 37 he’s heading back into completion with an attitude I just love .

“For me, at my age, athletics is more metaphysical than physical. I’m 37. I prove to myself and others that I can still compete and I hope I can inspire others along the way.” - Lance

He states his main reason for his comeback is to promote his cancer charity organization LiveStrong. I know one thing - he’s an inspiration for cancer victims!

Thanks Lance for giving us all hope.
PS.
Good Luck in the Tour Down Under – next week.

Lance Spotting:

Vanity Fair
Outside
Mens Health
NY Daily News

Related Links:

The Metaphysics of Athletes and Age
Why Old Athletes Come Back

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