Run, John, Run!

I finally got my Garmin. So, that makes me officially a runner, right? All the real runners have them so I guess that I needed to have one. Now I just need to learn how to use it. I tend to be a little challenged when it comes to technology, but this toy is so important to my training and that's all the motivation I need. Improvement through technology. Knowing how fast I'm going and where to make the adjustments will help tremendously. For example, I got the chance to run with a co-worker of coach Adela's, Justin, and we broke the Garmin in on great tempo run from the station of ABC13 to Rice U and around before returning back. Knowing my pace of the run in different areas helped show me where I could be going faster at times and slower in others when training on my own. By the way, Justin is a tri-athlete and an avid runner with a few marathons under his belt and he wasn't even breathing hard, while we maintained a 7:39 pace for six plus miles. I did keep pace but I was in charge of the heavy breathing Along the way, he did give me some great advice about my future runs ,along with, changing up the runs by running with faster people in order to push myself. Plus, a few tips on the Garmin to play with. Thanks Justin. This past week was a low mileage week for a couple of reasons. Hip problems for one. Funny thing is that I hurt my hip holding my daughter. It had nothing to do with tough training, just a two year old that is getting heavier and a father who is getting older. Thisweek my focus is to break through the 30 mile week which will include a 12 run on Friday. I know its going to get easier as we get closer, right. Ha ha. Well folks, my focus is there and I know I can get there, so stay tuned.