So, I waited awhile because I wanted to give these two a real chance to see which one I preferred. After my trip to Roadrunner Sports I ended up narrowing my choice down to these two, and it was a close one! They are both fantastic shoes with great cushioning, which I really need. I used to run on a mix of pavement, grass, dirt and even the occasional treadmill but now I run primarily on pavement, so my shoes take quite a bit of abuse and without significant cushioning, so would my joints.
I have been running in my Brooks Glycerin 8s for some time now, and they have been my absolute favorites, easily beating out my first Nike Zoom Equalon 4s. I have loved my Brooks but did want to try a few others out, you know, just for variety and to be sure I wasn't missing an even better ride ;)
I had tried so many (read previous reviews for that day trip to the store), but I had heard great things about Asics from other runners, so I was intrigued and really wanted to try them. After numerous test runs in the store, the Asics Gel Nimbus 13 and Brooks Glycerin 9 were in a dead heat and decided I would eventually get them both for my next rotation, though that day I left with just the Asics because, well, I was just going for something different. They are both responsive and comfortable shoes, with great cushioning for running on pavement. I've since put about 100 miles on each of them, so I think I can safely review them.
First the Asics Gel Nimbus 13 seen below (which is exactly the one's I left with). Cute as they can be :)
One of the reasons I wanted to try the Asics is that many runners I know with high arches find them to be then best for them, and since I do have high arches, I figured I should give them a try.
These shoes have decent ventilation, and remain comfortable throughout my regular 3-5 mile runs. The mesh upper breathes well, though I had gotten used to my Glycerin 8s where I could actually feel the breeze through my toe-sies ;), not so with these but no sweaty feet so that's ok.
They also have a nice heel drop, which is important for me as it helps with my arch support and weak ankles. Not too high, but just enough for the support I need.
On the treadmill, they were amazing and the midsole was so responsive I felt propelled forward. On pavement, well, a bit less so, but the cushioning is great and absorbs a good amount of the shock from running on pavement. I sometimes feel like the cushioning absorbs a bit more energy than it should and could have a bit more return on the energy, but all-in-all it's a comfortable ride.
I did notice a bit of heel slippage after the first few runs, but a runner's knot helped with that. I had hoped that after a few more runs I could go back to my standard lacing, but no such luck. With the runner's knot I don't have any more heel slippage, just takes that extra step in the morning that I don't particularly care for at 6am, but it's a minor thing. If you have very small ankles, you should keep that in mind.
The insole is comfortable enough and the shoe is sufficiently supportive that I can run with or without my orthotics. For the first 80 miles or so I ran without my orthotics, now I'm using them again (but that's because I'm nursing an overuse injury that's not shoe-related).
Overall it's a comfortable shoe, and I'm glad I purchased them. I will give the 14s a test run in about 300 or so miles, but they are my 2nd favorite shoe. It was neck and neck for a bit, but for the reasons set out below, Brooks is still the best shoe for me.
Next up, Brooks Glycerin 9. This is my current favorite ride, the color is cerise, which matches pinks and reds equally well (if that matters to you...)
My favorite shoes in my last rotation between Nike and Brooks were my Brooks Glycerin 8s. After reading numerous reviews and test-running in the store, they never disappointed. For that reason alone, I pretty much figured I'd end up with the 9s, and I was right.
I don't notice a significant difference between the 8s and 9s, though the reviews seem to indicate a bit more support for the midsole in the 9s.
Subjectively there seems to be a bit less ventilation than in the 8s, but moreso than the Asics. I like the mesh upper and appreciate the increased ventilation, for no other reason than it just feels good.
The heel drop is just about right, providing the comfort and support I need. I'd actually be ok with an a slightly higher heel profile, but this is sufficiently supportive for my needs The Glycerin 9 is a bit lighter than the 8, not substantially so, but any decrease in weight without sacrificing cushioning is appreciated.
I have no heel slippage in the Glycerins with my standard lacing, so no need for any runner's knot. The laces are short, so no double-knotting for security, but after hundreds of miles on 2 pairs of Glycerins, they've never come undone so I guess they got something right in the the lace department and no need for extra long laces.
The midsole is responsive with good energy return, even on concrete. I notice a slightly higher return energy from the Brooks than the Asics. It's not a huge difference, but it's enough to increase my pace slightly - always a good thing. The DNA on the 9s runs the entire length of the mid-sole, which may be the reason for the better energy return. That's the marketing speech, I have no idea what that means but I do know a responsive shoe when I run in one, and this one doesn't disappoint. Again, on the treadmill, it's very noticeable but on concrete everything suffers.
With these as well, the insole is comfortable and sufficiently supportive that I can run with or without my orthotics. As with the Asics, the first 80 miles I ran without, now back to using them (again, for reasons not connected at all with the shoes). The standard insole is far more comfortable in the 9s than the 8s. Honestly, the 8s insole seemed to be made with the intention that you weren't going to use it, it almost seemed like an after-thought. Not so with the 9s, it's comfortable enough to be of real value in the shoe. I like the option of running with or without orthotics as well as having a choice as to whether or not I use a standard insole or replace it with something else.
Overall, the shoes are very similar and you can't go wrong with either one, but the heel slippage on the Asics and the slightly reduced energy return cause the Brooks to edge out as my favorite.
Can't wait to test out the Glycerin 10s and Asics 14s. I see they reduced the heel drop in the Asics 14, so it's looking like I will be a Brooks girl in the next rotation as well - but I'm willing to test them both to confirm ;)
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Nike, Asics and Mizuno Running Shoe Mini-Reviews
I had stated in my review of RoadRunner Sports that I had tested at the following shoes: NikeFree, Nike Zoom Vomero, Mizuno Wave Rider, Mizuno Wave Creation, Brooks PureConnect, Brooks Glycerin 9, Asics Gel Cumulus 14, Asics Gel Nimbus 13.
In my last post I reviewed the two minimalist shoes, NikeFree and Brooks PureConnect. The Brooks beat out the Nike for me, so it's time to move on. Here I'm going to do a cursory review of all but my final two choices because none of the others really stood out, despite the considerable effort I put into giving them all a fair shot at being my new favorite shoes. Excuse the ads, but I do think a visual is quite nice when discussing shoes.
Nike Zoom Vomero: Again, really wanted to like these as I do like the Nike brand, but they were unimpressive. Not even as comfortable as my Equalon 4s and certainly not a major contender in my selections. Comfortable fit with a decent toe box, no heel slippage, but I couldn't detect a bit of cushioning or support and certainly not very responsive. Opinions vary, but mine is that they just aren't what I'm looking for. They were cute, have the sensor pocket (though I use a gps system), love the 'just do it' brand, but can't find a shoe that will hold up to my little 20 mile/week runs. Disappointed.
Asics Gel Cumulus 14: an ok ride, comfortable and responsive enough. They certainly beat out the Nike's but just not quite what I was looking for. Not enough cushioning for me but a decent shoe if it works for you. Decent toe box, ok in the cushion and response, no noticeable heel slippage. They just don't compare to the Gel Nimbus 13 (a review for next time). Still, Asics is a quality shoe, and worth anyone's time to try.
Mizunos: Tried the Wave Rider and Wave Creation. Have to say that the Mizunos were a new experience. They are a nice, responsive shoe with decent cushioning and the rocking motion from the sole gives a nice subtle forward-motion that's kinda fun. The Wave Creation, despite it's heavier size, won out for me as it had a bit more of a responsiveness to it and more cushioning. The fit was comfortable and seemed to have decent enough ventilation and a roomy fit without being too big (read: no heel slippage)
I do have to say, they are now my third-favorite shoe, and I wouldn't return them if given to me. I liked them fine and they were a strong contender, but I just didn't see myself putting these into my rotation for the next 500 miles. That said, I will continue to test future versions and see if they move up into my favorite slot.
vs
Two hours of testing and the final two were the Brooks Glycerin 9 and Asics Gel Nimbus 13. I'll take those head-to-head next time, but I can tell you this much: these are my top two favorites. It was a difficult decision, guess which one I went home with???
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In my last post I reviewed the two minimalist shoes, NikeFree and Brooks PureConnect. The Brooks beat out the Nike for me, so it's time to move on. Here I'm going to do a cursory review of all but my final two choices because none of the others really stood out, despite the considerable effort I put into giving them all a fair shot at being my new favorite shoes. Excuse the ads, but I do think a visual is quite nice when discussing shoes.
Nike Zoom Vomero: Again, really wanted to like these as I do like the Nike brand, but they were unimpressive. Not even as comfortable as my Equalon 4s and certainly not a major contender in my selections. Comfortable fit with a decent toe box, no heel slippage, but I couldn't detect a bit of cushioning or support and certainly not very responsive. Opinions vary, but mine is that they just aren't what I'm looking for. They were cute, have the sensor pocket (though I use a gps system), love the 'just do it' brand, but can't find a shoe that will hold up to my little 20 mile/week runs. Disappointed.
Asics Gel Cumulus 14: an ok ride, comfortable and responsive enough. They certainly beat out the Nike's but just not quite what I was looking for. Not enough cushioning for me but a decent shoe if it works for you. Decent toe box, ok in the cushion and response, no noticeable heel slippage. They just don't compare to the Gel Nimbus 13 (a review for next time). Still, Asics is a quality shoe, and worth anyone's time to try.
Mizunos: Tried the Wave Rider and Wave Creation. Have to say that the Mizunos were a new experience. They are a nice, responsive shoe with decent cushioning and the rocking motion from the sole gives a nice subtle forward-motion that's kinda fun. The Wave Creation, despite it's heavier size, won out for me as it had a bit more of a responsiveness to it and more cushioning. The fit was comfortable and seemed to have decent enough ventilation and a roomy fit without being too big (read: no heel slippage)
I do have to say, they are now my third-favorite shoe, and I wouldn't return them if given to me. I liked them fine and they were a strong contender, but I just didn't see myself putting these into my rotation for the next 500 miles. That said, I will continue to test future versions and see if they move up into my favorite slot.
vs
Two hours of testing and the final two were the Brooks Glycerin 9 and Asics Gel Nimbus 13. I'll take those head-to-head next time, but I can tell you this much: these are my top two favorites. It was a difficult decision, guess which one I went home with???
114119616182701355145
Monday, May 28, 2012
Get your Avon Advance Techniques hair color now!
Get your Avon Advance Techniques hair color now!: Check out the new hair look I created using Avon's Try It On tool! Upload your own photo to try on hair color shades.
I've tried lots of professional and over-the-counter products, this honestly is the best one I've found! The only down-side is having to do it myself ;)
I've tried lots of professional and over-the-counter products, this honestly is the best one I've found! The only down-side is having to do it myself ;)
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Running Shoe Review: Nike Free Run vs Brooks PureConnect
I mentioned in my review of Road Runner Sports that I had tested and compared no less than 8 different shoes over a period of two hours on my most recent trip and promised a review of my findings. Now reviewing all 8 of these is more than anyone wants to read in one sitting, so today I’ll do Nike FreeRun+3 and Brooks PureConnect. These are the only two minimalist shoes I tried, so they'll just go head to head on this review. I'm not doing a full on review since I really only tested these out on the treadmill and put probably only a mile each on them, so consider this as much of a first glance rather than an in-depth review.
Starting with the Nike's, I have to say I really wanted to love these shoes, in fact testing them was one of the primary reasons for my trip. The idea of a truly lightweight shoe just appeals to me. Now, I'm not ever going to be a barefoot runner, it's just not me. I run on sidewalks and other man-made surfaces and I really feel the need for some man-made protection when I do. Even still, I want the lightest, most comfortable and durable shoe I can have as once I run-retire them, they become my walk-to-work shoes. I also just like Nike. That said, the shoe was comfortable enough for walking, and so light and flexible that I might see using it for my daily commute and even Zumba, but once I hit the treadmill, I truly felt like I was running barefoot (and for me not in a good way). I missed the responsiveness and cushion I usually experience in my standard shoes (which last season were my Nike+ Zoom Equalon 4 and Brooks Glycerin 8). I felt absolutely zero support, cushion, or responsiveness - and I was totally bummed. I'll try later versions, just because I am ever optimistic about finding the perfect balance between minimalist protection and a smooth, comfortable ride but this one just wasn't it. So...next...
My next try was the Brooks PureConnect. I have to say, I was skeptical after the Nike's, but this shoe is about the best compromise between comfort and minimalism I could find. It's comfortable for walking, flexible and truly a responsive shoe with just enough cushion so that I didn't feel like I was very literally "pounding the pavement". Brooks really got it right with this shoe. I even considered them for this season's purchase, but after considerable testing of other shoes (which we'll address in later reviews) I decided it still isn't for me, at least not yet. That said, if and when I ever do go with a minimalist shoe, Brooks will be my first choice! If you're considering switching from a standard neutral ride to a minimalist, definitely make the Brooks PureConnect one of your test-runs, it's the perfect transition shoe.
My take-away is that if you really want to make the to transition to barefoot running and want a shoe to help with that, while still giving you some support and responsiveness that you're used to: go Brooks. If your really ready to start scaling down and want something just a tad more supportive than a racing flat : go Nike.
Starting with the Nike's, I have to say I really wanted to love these shoes, in fact testing them was one of the primary reasons for my trip. The idea of a truly lightweight shoe just appeals to me. Now, I'm not ever going to be a barefoot runner, it's just not me. I run on sidewalks and other man-made surfaces and I really feel the need for some man-made protection when I do. Even still, I want the lightest, most comfortable and durable shoe I can have as once I run-retire them, they become my walk-to-work shoes. I also just like Nike. That said, the shoe was comfortable enough for walking, and so light and flexible that I might see using it for my daily commute and even Zumba, but once I hit the treadmill, I truly felt like I was running barefoot (and for me not in a good way). I missed the responsiveness and cushion I usually experience in my standard shoes (which last season were my Nike+ Zoom Equalon 4 and Brooks Glycerin 8). I felt absolutely zero support, cushion, or responsiveness - and I was totally bummed. I'll try later versions, just because I am ever optimistic about finding the perfect balance between minimalist protection and a smooth, comfortable ride but this one just wasn't it. So...next...
My next try was the Brooks PureConnect. I have to say, I was skeptical after the Nike's, but this shoe is about the best compromise between comfort and minimalism I could find. It's comfortable for walking, flexible and truly a responsive shoe with just enough cushion so that I didn't feel like I was very literally "pounding the pavement". Brooks really got it right with this shoe. I even considered them for this season's purchase, but after considerable testing of other shoes (which we'll address in later reviews) I decided it still isn't for me, at least not yet. That said, if and when I ever do go with a minimalist shoe, Brooks will be my first choice! If you're considering switching from a standard neutral ride to a minimalist, definitely make the Brooks PureConnect one of your test-runs, it's the perfect transition shoe.
My take-away is that if you really want to make the to transition to barefoot running and want a shoe to help with that, while still giving you some support and responsiveness that you're used to: go Brooks. If your really ready to start scaling down and want something just a tad more supportive than a racing flat : go Nike.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Review: RoadRunner Sports
I've never reviewed a store before, and this is a precursor to some running shoes reviews, but I do have to mention my very favorite store.
I'm a fairly new runner, only 2 years in now, and a full 6 months of that was injury and post-injury recovery. I'm still not back to my regular 5 mile runs, but I'm working on it. When I first started running I refused to buy into the hype about running shoes. I just figured shoes were shoes and the rest was just marketing. Well, there's a lot of marketing and hype, but I learned very quickly that proper running shoes do matter. I'm not a fan of the barefoot running movement, and my opinion may well change but for now I am a firm believer in the right shoes for the right activity.
I first went to RoadRunner Sports two years ago after a month or so of running and some resulting knee and ankle pain. After discussions with runners and physical therapists, I decided to go get fitted for a proper pair of running shoes. RoadRunner Sports is a bit of a drive, and my first impression was that it was quite pricey. Nevertheless, I persisted and had myself evaluated by one of their "Shoe Dogs" who identified me as mildly over-pronating and suggested some stiff neutral or light stability shoes. I had always thought I had flat feet and discovered I had quite a high arch. Now isn't that interesting. I was also fitted for their custom orthotics.
The entire staff has a commitment to customer service that is rarely seen these days, and certainly quite rare in retail. Since I had never purchased shoes before, I spent quite a bit of time testing out the recommendations. There are many treadmills there so you can test them out as long as you need to. I spent some time going back and forth between their two recommendations and a couple I wanted to try before I finally decided on a pair of Nike Zoom Equalon 4s. My first run the next day I noticed a significant difference. No more knee or ankle pain - wow! I have been a convert of proper shoes ever since. I also identified a second brand, Brooks Glycerin 8, that I intended to purchase later to add into my rotation.
I should also mention that after a few months I noticed some knee and ankle pain returning. By going back into my running app (Nike+gps at the time), I identified that I had hit over 450 miles - time for those new shoes. Not only did I learn that shoes matter, but replacing them at the right time also matters.
When it came time to replace my beloved Brooks (they had become my favorite), I went back to Roadrunner Sports for a new evaluation. I could have just ordered new shoes, but I did want to see if, after some time, there had been any difference in my running style. I had thought I no longer needed the stability shoe and could move into a straight neutral, but I did want that to be confirmed since I didn't want to risk yet another injury.
This second trip is what really sold me on this store. As expected, working on my form had been successful and I was no longer overpronating and I had some new shoe recommendations. Now came the fun, test driving new rides. The staff was exceedingly helpful and pleasant as I tried all of these: NikeFree, Nike Zoom Vomero, Mizuno Wave Rider, Mizuno Wave Creation, Brooks PureConnect, Brooks Glycerin 9, Asics Gel Cumulus 14, Asics Gel Nimbus 13. A full 2 hours later, after test runs back and forth, I finally decided on my new shoes (and identified another one for a later purchase). I'll leave the decision for a later review. Suffice it to say, I got quite the workout, and so did the staff. Wow, not even a hint of exasperation as I was handed off to another staff member when the first one went off to lunch, and he came back twice as helpful afterwards when I was still there.
I'm sold, not only will I go back for my regular purchases, but if I can't make it I'll order online because clearly they have great hiring and training practices. Such great customer service deserves loyalty! Oh, and I've never found my rides cheaper than their VIP price. BTW: there's a clearance section in the back that's well worth checking out for some real bargains on discontinued models - now that's worth the drive!
If you don't have a Roadrunner Sports in your area, find the closest running specialty store, but if you have a choice - they're worth the drive.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Happy Easter!
The news is full of depressing information. The economy is still down, well maybe in some sectors it is looking up, but hearing that when you're still struggling is irritating! I've heard the job market is picking up, but I still know plenty of people who have yet to experience that.
The political rhetoric is gearing up. Loud, annoying, people who exist only to push their own agendas without any thought of listening to other views. There is no compromise, no desire to understand, and certainly no compassion. [there is a pending rant here, but that is not appropriate for today]
All of this gives us plenty of reasons to sink into a negative mindset. These things serve to distract us from what's really important. Take the time today to spend with family and friends. Remembering always that someone cared enough to lay His life down for you. Honor that today by sacrificing a bit of yourself to spend time with those you love, and maybe a few you don't. You can then wake up tomorrow with a fresh perspective, a positive mindset.
Choose Love. This is what's really important.
The political rhetoric is gearing up. Loud, annoying, people who exist only to push their own agendas without any thought of listening to other views. There is no compromise, no desire to understand, and certainly no compassion. [there is a pending rant here, but that is not appropriate for today]
All of this gives us plenty of reasons to sink into a negative mindset. These things serve to distract us from what's really important. Take the time today to spend with family and friends. Remembering always that someone cared enough to lay His life down for you. Honor that today by sacrificing a bit of yourself to spend time with those you love, and maybe a few you don't. You can then wake up tomorrow with a fresh perspective, a positive mindset.
Choose Love. This is what's really important.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Life Lessons from Running
First, a little history:
I'd been a confirmed gym rat for years, and about a year or so ago I was stuck at a plateau that I couldn't break with cardio or weight training. I'd hit a wall and no matter what I tried or how hard I worked, I just couldn't break through this final plateau. Oh those last 10#s are stubborn! Someone suggested I try running. Now, I never could run and the thought of it was NOT something I wanted to entertain. Finally, begrudgingly, I gave in and tried it.
I first started on the treadmill, could run maybe 30 seconds then walk a minute or more. I persisted until I was finally able to achieve a 5 minute run/1 minute walk. That didn't really take as long as I thought it would, but persistence paid off. I was tied to the metrics on the treadmill and had never considered running outside. First, I figured I'd just walk more frequently, sit down when I could. Also, I felt I needed the treadmill to move in order to keep me from slowing down or stopping altogether. See, I was running for the purpose of reaching a goal and not for the process. I really didn't enjoy it, but I was committed to the process.
One day a friend from the gym grabbed me on my way in and took me running outside. We ran the Silver Strand from IB to Coronado, wow that really is a beautiful run (or bike ride!). Needless to say, I was hooked and haven't been able to get back on a treadmill since. I also found, surprisingly, that I ran faster and longer outside than I did inside. I didn't need the machine to pace me. I was even able to run a full 5 miles without a single walk break. Surprised myself!
Some months later I experienced a severe high ankle sprain and stress fracture. The result of both over-training and failing to slow down on a trail. 2 months on crutches and unable to do much in the way of any training put me back to nearly ground zero on my training regimen. Back on the road again, but with a new run/walk training method. It took awhile, but I'm back to running a full 5k without a walk break. Not the 5 miles I used to do, and not at the pace I used to run, but I'll get there. I can't say I love running, or that I'll always do it. But I don't hate it anymore, more often than not I really do enjoy it, and there's no arguing with the results: lower body fat and increased cardiovascular fitness...so I press on.
I've learned a lot through this experience. Most of which I apply to my training schedule, but much of which also applies to life and business. See, cross-training isn't just for the gym, it's also for the mind and spirit.
1. Pace Yourself:
Go at your own pace and take breaks when you need them. Walk when you need to, and sometimes when you want to. as long as the "need to" is more often than the "want to" then you're fine. This helps your training, but also your business plan. Sometimes you need to slow down, catch your breath, then pick up the pace again. You have to go at your own pace, not one set for you by someone else. Yes, a defined pace or program can be helpful, but in the end you run your own race and have to modify it for yourself.
2. Set Goals:
Set a goal and then strive to beat it. I like setting a minimum goal that I need to reach and then exceed that. Some people try and set their maximum goal and then reach it. Either way, the sense of accomplishment is motivating. Without a goal, you won't notice progress. That's fine for a hobbyist, but for serious training, and serious business, goals matter. They matter a lot. Now, once you've reached those goals comfortably, change them. Make them a bit more difficult. Rinse and Repeat.
3. Run Your Own Race:
Competition can be a good thing. It can be motivating to compete against others. But at the end of the day, the best person to compete against is yourself. Beat your own time. Exceed your own goals. Forget what's right for someone else. How fast they run or how well their business appears from your view. Your goals, your pace, that's what matters. As long as you're moving forward, you're doing great!
4. Enjoy the Process:
Find something you truly enjoy and then just dive in. Do you love to run? Then do that. Do you prefer cycling? Dance? Swimming? Machine-based cardio (Elliptical/Stairs)? Whatever you truly enjoy, start there. You shouldn't have to hate your workout, or your job for that matter. Take some time to find out what you love and do that. Within that there may be parts of the process you don't love, but you should enjoy it overall. Make it fun!
5. Cross-Train:
Now that you've found something you enjoy, switch it up some. Try something new. Don't just be tied to one thing, your body and mind need variety. If you run or bike and it's a rainy day, don't just hit the treadmill or indoor cycle, dance or do some other indoor cardio-fun. Using different muscles will benefit you in the long run.
If you weight train, and you should, then you should also do some yoga or pilates on your off days. Not only will this benefit your weight training, but it will also benefit your cardio workout as well. Yoga and Pilates, while both being a form of strength training, focus heavily on developing your core as well as stabilization muscles and flexibility. All of which you need for total body conditioning.
In life and business, find a hobby that's completely different from your job. Now that can also be your workout, or it can be volunteering for a cause you believe in. It can also be using your business skill-set to benefit another business or individual as a volunteer. Take a class. If you excel at numbers, take a marketing class. If you are a star-networker, take an accounting class. Stretch your mind and you'll find areas you never knew you could use and grow. Your primary gift remains, but cross-training your mind will help you grow in amazing ways.
6. Reward Yourself:
It's hard work, hard on your body and mind. Take time to enjoy your life, de-stress. Go shopping for something fun. Go out with friends. Spend time with family. Get a massage. This is critical, life is meant to be lived and loved. Appreciate what you have, where you've come from and where you're going. Enjoy the process! At the end of the day, and the end of your life, these details matter.
I'd been a confirmed gym rat for years, and about a year or so ago I was stuck at a plateau that I couldn't break with cardio or weight training. I'd hit a wall and no matter what I tried or how hard I worked, I just couldn't break through this final plateau. Oh those last 10#s are stubborn! Someone suggested I try running. Now, I never could run and the thought of it was NOT something I wanted to entertain. Finally, begrudgingly, I gave in and tried it.
I first started on the treadmill, could run maybe 30 seconds then walk a minute or more. I persisted until I was finally able to achieve a 5 minute run/1 minute walk. That didn't really take as long as I thought it would, but persistence paid off. I was tied to the metrics on the treadmill and had never considered running outside. First, I figured I'd just walk more frequently, sit down when I could. Also, I felt I needed the treadmill to move in order to keep me from slowing down or stopping altogether. See, I was running for the purpose of reaching a goal and not for the process. I really didn't enjoy it, but I was committed to the process.
One day a friend from the gym grabbed me on my way in and took me running outside. We ran the Silver Strand from IB to Coronado, wow that really is a beautiful run (or bike ride!). Needless to say, I was hooked and haven't been able to get back on a treadmill since. I also found, surprisingly, that I ran faster and longer outside than I did inside. I didn't need the machine to pace me. I was even able to run a full 5 miles without a single walk break. Surprised myself!
Some months later I experienced a severe high ankle sprain and stress fracture. The result of both over-training and failing to slow down on a trail. 2 months on crutches and unable to do much in the way of any training put me back to nearly ground zero on my training regimen. Back on the road again, but with a new run/walk training method. It took awhile, but I'm back to running a full 5k without a walk break. Not the 5 miles I used to do, and not at the pace I used to run, but I'll get there. I can't say I love running, or that I'll always do it. But I don't hate it anymore, more often than not I really do enjoy it, and there's no arguing with the results: lower body fat and increased cardiovascular fitness...so I press on.
I've learned a lot through this experience. Most of which I apply to my training schedule, but much of which also applies to life and business. See, cross-training isn't just for the gym, it's also for the mind and spirit.
1. Pace Yourself:
Go at your own pace and take breaks when you need them. Walk when you need to, and sometimes when you want to. as long as the "need to" is more often than the "want to" then you're fine. This helps your training, but also your business plan. Sometimes you need to slow down, catch your breath, then pick up the pace again. You have to go at your own pace, not one set for you by someone else. Yes, a defined pace or program can be helpful, but in the end you run your own race and have to modify it for yourself.
2. Set Goals:
Set a goal and then strive to beat it. I like setting a minimum goal that I need to reach and then exceed that. Some people try and set their maximum goal and then reach it. Either way, the sense of accomplishment is motivating. Without a goal, you won't notice progress. That's fine for a hobbyist, but for serious training, and serious business, goals matter. They matter a lot. Now, once you've reached those goals comfortably, change them. Make them a bit more difficult. Rinse and Repeat.
3. Run Your Own Race:
Competition can be a good thing. It can be motivating to compete against others. But at the end of the day, the best person to compete against is yourself. Beat your own time. Exceed your own goals. Forget what's right for someone else. How fast they run or how well their business appears from your view. Your goals, your pace, that's what matters. As long as you're moving forward, you're doing great!
4. Enjoy the Process:
Find something you truly enjoy and then just dive in. Do you love to run? Then do that. Do you prefer cycling? Dance? Swimming? Machine-based cardio (Elliptical/Stairs)? Whatever you truly enjoy, start there. You shouldn't have to hate your workout, or your job for that matter. Take some time to find out what you love and do that. Within that there may be parts of the process you don't love, but you should enjoy it overall. Make it fun!
5. Cross-Train:
Now that you've found something you enjoy, switch it up some. Try something new. Don't just be tied to one thing, your body and mind need variety. If you run or bike and it's a rainy day, don't just hit the treadmill or indoor cycle, dance or do some other indoor cardio-fun. Using different muscles will benefit you in the long run.
If you weight train, and you should, then you should also do some yoga or pilates on your off days. Not only will this benefit your weight training, but it will also benefit your cardio workout as well. Yoga and Pilates, while both being a form of strength training, focus heavily on developing your core as well as stabilization muscles and flexibility. All of which you need for total body conditioning.
In life and business, find a hobby that's completely different from your job. Now that can also be your workout, or it can be volunteering for a cause you believe in. It can also be using your business skill-set to benefit another business or individual as a volunteer. Take a class. If you excel at numbers, take a marketing class. If you are a star-networker, take an accounting class. Stretch your mind and you'll find areas you never knew you could use and grow. Your primary gift remains, but cross-training your mind will help you grow in amazing ways.
6. Reward Yourself:
It's hard work, hard on your body and mind. Take time to enjoy your life, de-stress. Go shopping for something fun. Go out with friends. Spend time with family. Get a massage. This is critical, life is meant to be lived and loved. Appreciate what you have, where you've come from and where you're going. Enjoy the process! At the end of the day, and the end of your life, these details matter.
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