Marathon By 40

my progress towards running a marathon

Archive for the 'training aids' Category

How To Stop Gasping For Air While Running

On my long runs, I typically follow my weekly interval pattern (like run 3 mins, walk 1 min) until the last mile when I try to sprint and “leave everything out on the run.” The last two times this has included running up the grass knoll that runs alongside the playing fields at Richland College. I’ve noticed myself feeling short of breath when I get to the top.

This video explains why that happens and how to overcome it. Bear with the quality at the start, its easier to hear and makes sense as you near the end of this short video.



I saw this on “Run to Win: Marathoning Made Simple,” one of my regular running reads. And, I’ll certainly focus on deep, full exhaling next time I feel short of breath!


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Heart Rate Monitor

I recently purchased the Polar F6 Men’s Heart Rate Monitor Watch as my friends have talked about success they had with heart monitor training. Until the 10k I run in October, I’ll likely just use it to collect data. Once I determine an accurate Maximum Heart Rate (MHR) during the race, I’ll use that in calculations to determine a HRM program to use after.

I’d like to develop a plan that will both help me loose weight and increase aerobic capacity and endurance. Have you used any plans to do either? Share links to your favorite plans/sites in the comments.

With or without a HRM, keep running!

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Cool Tunes at Podrunner.com

I tried a new music source for this morning’s run. Normally I listen to Robert Ullrey’s podcast series for the Couch to 5k program. Robert did a great job mixing music along with his own voice-overs reminding runners when to switch between the walking and running intervals. He would even chime in with encouragement when you only have a minute left on the day’s workout. Robert, thanks for the help as I worked my way from the couch to the ability to run a full 5k!

This week I was looking for something fresh to keep me alert as I prepare for my first event. I had heard of Podrunner before, and this was a perfect chance to give it try. DJ Steve Boyett has prepared several programs both for general workouts (the Podrunner series) and for interval training (Podrunner Intervals). For intervals he’s mixed “First Day to 5k” (follows same schedule as Couch to 5k), “Gateway to 8k” and “Freeway to 10k.” He provides a little chatter at the start of each track, but the cues for switching pace while running sound like the Tokyo Subway chimes. The cues are subtle without reminders of the duration for each, so make sure you know what your intervals are before you start if you’re interested in tracking only actual workout time (no warm-up or cool-down) on Nike+.

Overall, the quality of the music was great. It seemed like the music was sampled at high quality. And it was nice to hear something new while I ran. If you’re interested in new tunes for running, check it out.

Only two more workouts before the race. I hope to progress this week and peak on Monday.

Until then, let’s go run!

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