L.S.D. in the Rain

     At last, without any hindrance of time or weather, I finished my 14 mile run on Saturday.  It must have been over a year since I've clocked that much distance, and I'm relieved to be getting back to where I was, albeit slowly.  The weather was cool, probably in the mid to low 70s.  It had been raining for much of the afternoon, and continued on for the first 3 miles.  I like running in the rain -- the smell of it on the wind and it's slow, soothing trail down my face keeps my senses active and my focus acute.  For 8 miles, I loved the run and the run loved me.  Somewhere around mile 9, the struggle began, but I pushed through to reach 14.

     The following day, I ran 5 miles.  For all my runs last week, including the consecutive 14 and 5 miler, I used my Sockwa G2s, one of the most minimal barefoot shoes on the market.  I recently gave some advice on how to ease into barefoot shoes and running to a friend, and CNN.com posted an article on how to break in Vibram Five Fingers (link to CNN article).  Perhaps I should have listened to my own advice, because both my feet are now sore and the left foot is in severe pain forcing me to limp around -- only for today I hope.  With all the miles I've been able to put on my Merrell Trail Gloves, I didn't think I would have any issues.  I felt the creeping pain from the punishing pavement 10 miles into the 14 miler, but how could I stop so close to the end?  I'm going to have to really strengthen my feet or consider running long distances in a more substantial shoe reserving my barefoot styles for shorter, quicker runs.  

     Good running this week, everyone.  I hope my feet can hold up and I can join you.  Thank goodness today is a rest day.  

Free From The Heat

     If you read the previous corresponding entry, you know last weekend I took my training to Texas where afternoon high temperatures averaged in the 100s.  For my Saturday long run, I didn't wake up at 4 A.M. or 5 A.M. -- or 6 A.M.  7 A.M. is when my feet hit the floor and I get ready to run.  Even this early in the morning the temperature is already in the 80s and the sun is high above the trees.  The added heat index and humidity means I'm drenched in sweat before I finish the first mile.  The temperature increased fast and I got slower having to stop multiple times to choose my direction, drink water, and to find shelter in the shade of a tree.  Hydration became critical as my water bottle was emptying quickly, so I did what I had to and filled it with water from the sprinkler of someone's house.  They looked stunned.  My 14 mile goal turned into a desperate mission just to make it home.  Scorched by heat and on exhausted legs, I make it to my front door only finishing 10 miles.  

     I returned to Chicago this week resetting my training for the 3rd time to achieve my 3 week training calendar goals.  Happily, I step outside and the temperature is a blissful 75 degrees with highs in the low 80s.  It feels great.  

     This week I also begin a 2 week evaluation of the Sockwa G2, a barefoot type shoe.  Look for my complete review around the end of August.  Till then, I've done a 3, 4, and 5 mile run in my Sockwa G2s, and so far they feel great!  With a sole 1.7mm thick, you feel everything on the road, but there's one thing I realize.  Just because I can feel what I'm stepping on, doesn't mean it's hurting me.  At first, I mentally winced at every tiny pebble I stepped on.  Then, I discovered that I wasn't actually experiencing pain from it.  I was just aware of what was beneath my feet.  Still, if you're running in barefoot shoes, watch out for what you step on.  Large, jagged surfaces will hurt!  

     Wherever you may be, run long and prosper, but if it's really hot where you are, take measures to ensure a good, safe run.  Don't be afraid to make use of a neighbor's sprinklers either!