Running Towards Fitness

Personal Awareness
The ancient Greeks used to believe that a healthy mind and a healthy body not only went together, but were both critical for happiness and a successful life. They were also intertwined, meaning that a weakness in either area would affect the other. When I started this transformation I was overweight and full of excuses. And by overweight I don't mean just a few pounds - I weighed over 70 pounds more than I do now. I finally took my life into my own hands and started exercising. At the time, I had no idea where it would lead - to a stronger body, a happier, more nimble mind, and a chest full of race medals. Healthy mind, healthy body, indeed! It hasn't been easy, or without issues, but I wouldn't trade the experience for the world.

First 5K

Well, not my first 5K exactly, but my first during recovery.  And it wasn’t a race or anything, just the Pfluger to MoPac loop on the trail, but I’m counting it.  And it beats this one for two reasons: it was continuous, and I didn’t screw up my back.  Its been months since I’ve even set foot on the trail and it was great to be back.

I ran the first 2 miles with Mike and Thon, then ran back while they went on to do distances I can only dream of (or remember).  Then while stretching I was able to chat with Muna for a while which was an added bonus.  I really wanted to do the seven mile loop, but I behaved myself and I think that was the correct decision.  I did pick it up a bit on the last half mile, and after stretching out I was able to do four strides with Thon as well, which I think is a good sign.

Its an uphill battle, but I’m determined to get back to where I was before and then some.  I’m thinking about running BagelFest, my traditional return-after-the-marathon run, this year.  I know I won’t PR, but by that point (over a month away) I should be able to do the 3 miles alright.  Stupid or motivational?  I’m not completely sure.

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About

I'm Richard Stanford, a fit, happy runner. Of course, that wasn't always the case. Dip into the archives to follow my progress from couch potato to sub-four hour marathoner.

I also like to cook, write, code, and play with power tools...

Personal Records

DistanceRaceTimePace
Marathon2006 Freescale3:54:078:56
20 Miles2006 RunTex3:00:089:00
30K2005 RunTex2:42:448:45
Half M2006 3M1:42:577:51
20K2005 Decker1:40:428:06
10 Miles2005 Pervasive1:20:138:01
10K2005 Dublin Dr Pepper48:437:51
5 Miles2005 Turkey Trot37:017:24
5K2005 Margarita Run22:327:15
4K2006 Fila Relays17:247:15
1 Mile2006 Congress Ave6:236:23

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Activity

4 total comments, leave your comment.
  1. shannon
    Feb 1st 2007
    11:14 AM

    I’m SO happy to see that you’re writing again, especially that you’re writing about running. You’ll come back stronger than ever, but be careful!! I’m glad you didn’t do the 7 mi. loop!

  2. Erine
    Feb 1st 2007
    11:46 AM

    Richard–

    Welcome back. To both running and blogging. I have a funny feeling you’re going to rise above all your previous PR’s. Not only will you do that, but you’ll inspire all of us on the way.

    Here’s to sitting back and enjoying the show.

  3. Jay
    Feb 1st 2007
    1:09 PM

    Enjoy the process of becoming a runner again, Richard. It’s the journey that is special, so this time, pay attention to all the little things as you come back. Don’t try to rush, and be very methodical. Lay down a good base of miles and we’ll see you for speedy stuff in May. Believe me, that’s plenty soon!

  4. Thanks, guys. I’m really trying to balance playing it safe with getting back into the swing of things. Once I hit about 10 miles per week, I’m supposed to stick to the 10% rule until I get to 35-40 or so with no issue. I’m also trying hard to, once I get everything working again, do a ton of hill work. I’ve come back from injuries “easy,” before, and paid the price in the following months. Balance, that’s the key.

    And hills. But mostly balance.


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Famous Marathon Times

RunnerTimePace
Al Gore4:58:2511:23
Oprah4:29:3010:17
P. Diddy4:14:549:43
Will Ferrell3:56:129:01
George W. Bush3:44:528:35
John Edwards3:30:188:01
Carrie Sapp3:29:067:59
Boston Qualifier3:10:597:17
Lance Armstrong2:59:366:51
Gilbert Tuhabonye2:23:075:28
Paula Radcliffe2:15:255:10
Paul Tegat2:04:554:46

People I Train With

Alex - Addicted to Exercise
Carrie - Tri to be Funny
Erine - Thousand Miles
Frank - Running Blog
Gilbert - Gilbert's Gazelles
Jay - Leotian Blog
Mike - BROTH