1000 warm up, (1 swim-2 pull-3 steady-4 build) x 2, 120 cool down.
How does one swim 3120 yards?
You swim in a 20 yard pool, of course!
Most people think I am crazy for enjoying the little 20 yard pool. There are two other full 25-yard pools at other gyms in the city that I can use (although they are not as close to work). I, however, think that the yards go by faster in the shorter pool: Just think, after a flip turn and a good streamline, you're halfway down the pool!! It's great :)
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Making it all offical.
St. Anthony's- officially deferred until 2009 (second year in a row! I WILL do this race in my life ha!)
Eagleman- just got email confirmation of my cancellation. Luckily it's a race where you can get a partial refund, so at least it's something. I also figure that with the unexpected refund, I will treat myself to something fun and useful for my trip. And as luck would have it- they just came out with new color I-pod!. I already have the pink shuffle, which is GREAT for working out, but is not as practical for commuting/traveling, and also doesn't work with my I-home (my previous I-pod mini is slowly dying of old age).
*******************************************
I guess the process of accepting a serious injury is admitting what you can and can't do and coming to terms with it. I think am doing OK with it all. The race I am honestly most upset about is the Half Marathon in Cape Town, just because I feel like it is something I will never get the chance to do again. As an international entrant, I was automatically entered into the 'International Friendship 5k' that is the day before the main race, I may am hoping I may just be able to walk it and still take part. And honestly, it may be fun to be a spectator at one of the biggest marathons in Africa.
Got the MRI last night. Let me share some valuable information: If you have an upset stomach, reschedule any type of procedure where you will be tied down for over a half hour. I have what you may call a 'nervous' stomach. When I get nervous about things, my stomach is what reacts. In often times predictable, but sometimes not, ways. So I tried to collect myself before being velcro-ed to the machine and put into a tube of magnets for 35 minutes. Happy to say I made it without any 'mishaps', however, when they started to take me out, I practically jumped off the table to run to the bathroom. Sorry if TMI.
Oh well, glad it's over. I am sure the dinner of Reeses Pieces and Cherry Coke Zero I had after my swim didn't help matters. Whoops.
Eagleman- just got email confirmation of my cancellation. Luckily it's a race where you can get a partial refund, so at least it's something. I also figure that with the unexpected refund, I will treat myself to something fun and useful for my trip. And as luck would have it- they just came out with new color I-pod!. I already have the pink shuffle, which is GREAT for working out, but is not as practical for commuting/traveling, and also doesn't work with my I-home (my previous I-pod mini is slowly dying of old age).
*******************************************
I guess the process of accepting a serious injury is admitting what you can and can't do and coming to terms with it. I think am doing OK with it all. The race I am honestly most upset about is the Half Marathon in Cape Town, just because I feel like it is something I will never get the chance to do again. As an international entrant, I was automatically entered into the 'International Friendship 5k' that is the day before the main race, I may am hoping I may just be able to walk it and still take part. And honestly, it may be fun to be a spectator at one of the biggest marathons in Africa.
Got the MRI last night. Let me share some valuable information: If you have an upset stomach, reschedule any type of procedure where you will be tied down for over a half hour. I have what you may call a 'nervous' stomach. When I get nervous about things, my stomach is what reacts. In often times predictable, but sometimes not, ways. So I tried to collect myself before being velcro-ed to the machine and put into a tube of magnets for 35 minutes. Happy to say I made it without any 'mishaps', however, when they started to take me out, I practically jumped off the table to run to the bathroom. Sorry if TMI.
Oh well, glad it's over. I am sure the dinner of Reeses Pieces and Cherry Coke Zero I had after my swim didn't help matters. Whoops.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
swim.
2800 yards in about 50 minutes. Solid 1200 warm up, then a 1-2-3-4-3-2-1 ladder with some pulling mixed in. Felt really good. Flip turns and all. Planned to do 4500, but my hip started feeling a bit sore, really proud of myself for listening to my body.
Sat in the hot plunge for awhile. I have 7pm appointment for an MRI tonight. Should hear tomorrow about the results.
Sat in the hot plunge for awhile. I have 7pm appointment for an MRI tonight. Should hear tomorrow about the results.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Confirmed.
Femoral Neck Stress Fracture (FNSF).
The image is not coming out very clearly, but I added an arrow to the area in question, where there is 'increased activity'. It is quite obvious, it is a bit brighter than the surrounding area. I will get an MRI as soon as insurance approves it, to see the severity.
Good news: Doc seemed VERY mellow about it. Said I didn't need crutches. Said I could swim, maybe even bike depending on the MRI results.
Bad news: Obviously no running. For who knows how long. Everything you read about this injury talks about crutches, no weight bearing, and absolute rest, so I need to push the doctor when I go back as to why he obviously doesn't agree with this.
I am very happy with my decision to switch docs. Dr. M asked me a series of thorough questions regarding my medical and athletic history, etc and came up with some interesting points as to why this injury 'makes sense,' even though there was no acute injury:
1. My diet History. When I was a child, I went to a very liberal/hippy-dippy pediatrician who believed that "cow's milk was for baby cows and human milk was for baby humans." Thus, once I stopped breastfeeding, dairy was not a part of my diet. As I got older and had more control over what I was eating, I added cheese and some other diary (ice cream!), however never very much, and I never developed a taste for drinking straight milk. And my taste for yogurt is only recent. Dr. M believes this may have had an impact on my bones/bone density, thus he has recommended a calcium and Vitamin E supplement daily until I am 31 (which is said to be your peak of bone density).
2. My athletic history. In basic terms, because I was a swimmer my entire life (age 10 to 21), although I am very physically fit and have a strong aerobic base, my bones never had to get used to the pounding impact that running causes. Now that I am trying to become a runner, especially a distance runner, my body still has to adjust and learn to deal with this pounding, even though aerobically, I am able to run. Makes so much sense.
So although at this point it is still wait and see until the MRI, I am feeling SO much better about the whole situation.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Shoe4Africa
I have just added the YouTube of a great organization that I have recently started to help out with. Shoe4Africa has a simple mission: Empowerment, Health and AIDS Awareness and started with a simple concept: taking excess shoes, taking them over to Africa, and making change. It has grown to be much more. I urge you to click the link and see how little time and effort it takes to change other's lives.
To find out how you can help, click here. We all have used running shoes that are, in essence, still wearable. See what a difference you can make.
To find out how you can help, click here. We all have used running shoes that are, in essence, still wearable. See what a difference you can make.
Shhh
...I swam today. Just 1 mile. Easy easy easy. No kicking, with a pull bouy. I didn't do flip turns, only pushed off with my left leg.
It felt slow and sluggish...but OH SO good. And my hip didin't hurt any more after that it has been hurting anyways.
I had to do it.
It felt slow and sluggish...but OH SO good. And my hip didin't hurt any more after that it has been hurting anyways.
I had to do it.
Friday, January 25, 2008
PS
I just realized that it will be TWO full weeks on Monday since I had done any type of physical activity.
Craziness.
My training log feels neglected and sad,
and I'm afraid to weigh myself
Craziness.
My training log feels neglected and sad,
and I'm afraid to weigh myself
Home again, home again.
I just arrived home again from Philly, and getting in two hours earlier than expected is just the BEST thing ever sometimes. I never sleep very well in hotels, and my leg has been hurting (obviously) and I think I ate more at this training than I have in a really long time, so I am very much looking forward to being a blob on the couch tonight.
Overall, the training was really useful, covered many of the activities I will be doing for the first time during my three weeks in South Africa, but the trainings through this company are also a great way to network and hear of other people's work experiences in various parts of the clinical drug research process, and, to me, that is very enjoyable. It is always interesting to hear how different companies operate, and especially for me, coming from a very different place than most, if not all, of the other attendees (the non-profit side), it's always an interesting comparison to hear what it is like to work in a world of profit, without budget dictating most of your activities. Half the time I think I can see myself working in 'industry' in the future, on the sponser side or on the actual clinical side, however, the other half of the time, I just cannot imagine it. So I always try to keep my ears and eyes open during this trainings, making mental notes about job functions, companies, etc.
No improvements on the hip front. I have still been taking 1/painkiller a day, at night, b/c I have been having trouble sleeping due to pain. I DID get some really good news when I was gone though; I got a call from a doctor (Dr. M) that I had emailed a few weeks ago who is a good friend of many of the friends I have made through triathlon in NYC, and he is a well VERY well respected ortho.
After telling him of my experience last week, Dr. M told me to cancel the spect scan I had scheduled on Monday, and to make an appointment with his office first thing Monday and we would get to the bottom of it. He said the Spect Scan won't provide much more info past the bone scan, that I shouldn't get that much radiation anyways (esp after the xray and bone scan last week). He said the MRI is the best way to see what is going on and will tell us all we need to know.
After talking with him, I got to thinking. I am pretty appalled that the ortho I had been seeing did not read my bone scan, or even look at it, just the radiologist. I feel like, if this is a fracture, it is a pretty serious injury and for the ortho to send me off, walking on it for a FULL week before a final diagnosis, is just not the best way to handle the situation. I feel 100% comfortable transferring my care to Dr. M. He is also a triathlete himself, with multiple Ironman finishes, including Kona, and multiple Boston Marathon's, so it will be nice to be treated, whatever the final diagnosis it, by someone who 'gets it'.
OH! I also am going to get my hands on electronic copies of my x-ray and bone scan to take to his office, so hopefully I can keep a copy for myself and show everyone what is going on!!
Overall, the training was really useful, covered many of the activities I will be doing for the first time during my three weeks in South Africa, but the trainings through this company are also a great way to network and hear of other people's work experiences in various parts of the clinical drug research process, and, to me, that is very enjoyable. It is always interesting to hear how different companies operate, and especially for me, coming from a very different place than most, if not all, of the other attendees (the non-profit side), it's always an interesting comparison to hear what it is like to work in a world of profit, without budget dictating most of your activities. Half the time I think I can see myself working in 'industry' in the future, on the sponser side or on the actual clinical side, however, the other half of the time, I just cannot imagine it. So I always try to keep my ears and eyes open during this trainings, making mental notes about job functions, companies, etc.
No improvements on the hip front. I have still been taking 1/painkiller a day, at night, b/c I have been having trouble sleeping due to pain. I DID get some really good news when I was gone though; I got a call from a doctor (Dr. M) that I had emailed a few weeks ago who is a good friend of many of the friends I have made through triathlon in NYC, and he is a well VERY well respected ortho.
After telling him of my experience last week, Dr. M told me to cancel the spect scan I had scheduled on Monday, and to make an appointment with his office first thing Monday and we would get to the bottom of it. He said the Spect Scan won't provide much more info past the bone scan, that I shouldn't get that much radiation anyways (esp after the xray and bone scan last week). He said the MRI is the best way to see what is going on and will tell us all we need to know.
After talking with him, I got to thinking. I am pretty appalled that the ortho I had been seeing did not read my bone scan, or even look at it, just the radiologist. I feel like, if this is a fracture, it is a pretty serious injury and for the ortho to send me off, walking on it for a FULL week before a final diagnosis, is just not the best way to handle the situation. I feel 100% comfortable transferring my care to Dr. M. He is also a triathlete himself, with multiple Ironman finishes, including Kona, and multiple Boston Marathon's, so it will be nice to be treated, whatever the final diagnosis it, by someone who 'gets it'.
OH! I also am going to get my hands on electronic copies of my x-ray and bone scan to take to his office, so hopefully I can keep a copy for myself and show everyone what is going on!!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
No news
After working all morning to get insurance approval for the SpecCT scan, as I walked into the waiting area I hear the receptionist telling another patient "The machine just crashed...stick around and we will see when it is up and running again." Which we all know is medical speak for "Yeah right! No way you're getting this test done today!"
I politely register and am told the same thing, however I believe with my pyschic powers, I just may be able to convince the machine to start working again. So I sit from 1 to 4pm waiting (and napping) and waiting. No dice.
I had a nice chat though with the Head of Radiology, who is the one who read my bone scan last night and an all-around nice guy, who today had an intern, who I recognized from the gym! She is another sucker who loves the double spin classes on tues-thurs with the coach of my triathlon team. She mentioned that she and the Doc had a 'bet' as to what was wrong with me- she things stress fracture, he thinks not. Good to know they are getting some pleasure out of the situation.
HOWEVER, they also mentioned that SHE TOO was getting over the SAME injury, a femoral-neck stress fracture, as my 'worst case scenario' diagnosis, as they kept referring to it. So that is good to know, as I see her at the gym spinning just about every time I am at the gym in that neighborhood. I didn't dare ask how long she was out/off running, but she seemed to have a positive mood about it, even if it was just for my tender nerves (as they were beginning to fray at that point, and with me, fraying nerves=big well-up tears).
So, that's the news. No news. Not until Monday, as now it is off to Philly for three days of training-course fun. Oh, the doc's suggestion for the week ahead in my flux-state of non-diagnosis: "Just dont' walk a alot, OK kiddo?"
Thanks, Doc, thanks a WHOLE lot.
I politely register and am told the same thing, however I believe with my pyschic powers, I just may be able to convince the machine to start working again. So I sit from 1 to 4pm waiting (and napping) and waiting. No dice.
I had a nice chat though with the Head of Radiology, who is the one who read my bone scan last night and an all-around nice guy, who today had an intern, who I recognized from the gym! She is another sucker who loves the double spin classes on tues-thurs with the coach of my triathlon team. She mentioned that she and the Doc had a 'bet' as to what was wrong with me- she things stress fracture, he thinks not. Good to know they are getting some pleasure out of the situation.
HOWEVER, they also mentioned that SHE TOO was getting over the SAME injury, a femoral-neck stress fracture, as my 'worst case scenario' diagnosis, as they kept referring to it. So that is good to know, as I see her at the gym spinning just about every time I am at the gym in that neighborhood. I didn't dare ask how long she was out/off running, but she seemed to have a positive mood about it, even if it was just for my tender nerves (as they were beginning to fray at that point, and with me, fraying nerves=big well-up tears).
So, that's the news. No news. Not until Monday, as now it is off to Philly for three days of training-course fun. Oh, the doc's suggestion for the week ahead in my flux-state of non-diagnosis: "Just dont' walk a alot, OK kiddo?"
Thanks, Doc, thanks a WHOLE lot.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Bad...or worse?
Just returned from a full day at the hospital. After an x-ray (useless), that scan of some type where they inject you with radioactivity and watch the blood flow (results not yet available) and bone scan (illuminating and confusing), it is either:
1. A traction type injury at the insertion point of the Psoas. If you look at this pichttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif, at the bottom-most arrow on the picture, going around the femur, the bone scan was highlighted right at the end of the arrow's tail (not the head, obvs). So this led the doc to think that is what it is.
HOWEVER
2. A femoral neck stress fracture would also highlight a bone scan in the same area. This, of course, would be a much more serious diagnosis and what I have been holding my breath and not allowing myself to 'google' the results of since I started having pain (b/c all my symptoms are completely consistent with this). The doc assured me that this is much, much rarer, and harder to diagnosis, so he didn't want to jump to any conclusions.
So tomorrow, the plan is, once we have insurance approval (of course), I will have a CT scan, and this way we can overlay the bone scan on top of the CT Scan. If the highlighted part of the bone scan is exactly where the insertion point is of the Psoas (which we will be able to see on the CT scan), he will rule out stress fracture. If not....
Well, to be honest, now that I am thinking of it, he didn't really go there.
So basically, it's either bad, meaning still no running and lots of PT, or worse, meaning A LONG TIME of no running and major PT.
The doc's hunch? I think he was leaning towards NOT thinking it was a femoral neck stress fracture, but only b/c it was so rare and I couldn't pinpoint anything I 'did' to cause the injury.
My hunch? Even thought it causes pain (literally and emotionally) to admit, I think it's a stress fracture. I can tell when I walk...something just ain't right. And it ain't right in a way-worse-than a traction type way.
But I have to wait until I get the final diagnosis to start picturing a trip across India with crutches.....
1. A traction type injury at the insertion point of the Psoas. If you look at this pichttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif, at the bottom-most arrow on the picture, going around the femur, the bone scan was highlighted right at the end of the arrow's tail (not the head, obvs). So this led the doc to think that is what it is.
HOWEVER
2. A femoral neck stress fracture would also highlight a bone scan in the same area. This, of course, would be a much more serious diagnosis and what I have been holding my breath and not allowing myself to 'google' the results of since I started having pain (b/c all my symptoms are completely consistent with this). The doc assured me that this is much, much rarer, and harder to diagnosis, so he didn't want to jump to any conclusions.
So tomorrow, the plan is, once we have insurance approval (of course), I will have a CT scan, and this way we can overlay the bone scan on top of the CT Scan. If the highlighted part of the bone scan is exactly where the insertion point is of the Psoas (which we will be able to see on the CT scan), he will rule out stress fracture. If not....
Well, to be honest, now that I am thinking of it, he didn't really go there.
So basically, it's either bad, meaning still no running and lots of PT, or worse, meaning A LONG TIME of no running and major PT.
The doc's hunch? I think he was leaning towards NOT thinking it was a femoral neck stress fracture, but only b/c it was so rare and I couldn't pinpoint anything I 'did' to cause the injury.
My hunch? Even thought it causes pain (literally and emotionally) to admit, I think it's a stress fracture. I can tell when I walk...something just ain't right. And it ain't right in a way-worse-than a traction type way.
But I have to wait until I get the final diagnosis to start picturing a trip across India with crutches.....
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Up and at um!
Anddddd...she's back in the game!! Today is the first day I am FINALLY feeling back to normal. It all started with a quick downhill on tuesday- lasting until about last night. I think I averaged about 15-18 hours of sleep per day this week. And I know I am sick when all I want to do is get back in bed. Reading anything: the computer screen, Menu Pages, a book, made me feel more sick, so I pretty much caught up on sleep in a major way, as well as any reality show you can think of right now. Project Runway? Real Housewives? Make me a Supermodel (or whatever it is)? Ask away, I am your girl. Oh and just about any season of America's Next Top Model, as well. (PS- did you know they are coming out with a Real Housewives of NYC? Can't WAIT!). Also, after the amount of Food Network I have watched, I should officially be a chef. My favorite recipe of the week? Barefoot Contessa's Bacon Mac and Cheese, can't WAIT to make that one!!
Other updates:
Work- SO much to catch up on now. After getting sick at work on Tuesday, and only lasting about one hour in the office on Thursday, next week is going to be rough. I am scheduled to be in Philly for a work training Wed-Friday, so I can imagine it's going to be some long nights in the hotel to catch up. Hopefully my new laptop comes before I leave so I don't have to use the world's slowest laptop with Windows98 I have been given from work until now.
Training/Hip- What is this...training you say?? Day 6 of no working out, day 14 of no running :( The flu took a little pressure off, and I was hoping would help my hip feel better if it simply an overuse injury, however, I can tell that isn't happening. I really think the only reason my hip is feeling better this week is the FAB-u-LOUS painkillers the doc prescribed, however this worries me as I move forward with the injury.
Travel- Plans all made, tickets booked (need to confirm Tuesday). All hotels booked except Durban, need to do on Tuesday.
And I am now realizing that I have SORELY neglected the namesake of this blog. I have indeed been very good in the past few weeks about NO NEW SHOES, as I have only been trying to do India/Travel related shopping. So, over the next few days, I will begin to post pics of my favorite shoes in my closet, so I can share the love with the world :) Oh, and at least the heels can get some action as my hip is in NO position to be sporting 3+ inches right now....
Other updates:
Work- SO much to catch up on now. After getting sick at work on Tuesday, and only lasting about one hour in the office on Thursday, next week is going to be rough. I am scheduled to be in Philly for a work training Wed-Friday, so I can imagine it's going to be some long nights in the hotel to catch up. Hopefully my new laptop comes before I leave so I don't have to use the world's slowest laptop with Windows98 I have been given from work until now.
Training/Hip- What is this...training you say?? Day 6 of no working out, day 14 of no running :( The flu took a little pressure off, and I was hoping would help my hip feel better if it simply an overuse injury, however, I can tell that isn't happening. I really think the only reason my hip is feeling better this week is the FAB-u-LOUS painkillers the doc prescribed, however this worries me as I move forward with the injury.
Travel- Plans all made, tickets booked (need to confirm Tuesday). All hotels booked except Durban, need to do on Tuesday.
And I am now realizing that I have SORELY neglected the namesake of this blog. I have indeed been very good in the past few weeks about NO NEW SHOES, as I have only been trying to do India/Travel related shopping. So, over the next few days, I will begin to post pics of my favorite shoes in my closet, so I can share the love with the world :) Oh, and at least the heels can get some action as my hip is in NO position to be sporting 3+ inches right now....
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Stomach Flu, Day 3
only slept 3 hours today, vast improvements over the past few days.
At first i thought it was my body reacting to the pain meds, bu then I heard this has been going around the office since early last week. And that I shared it with one of my best friends. Oh well.....back to sleep.
At first i thought it was my body reacting to the pain meds, bu then I heard this has been going around the office since early last week. And that I shared it with one of my best friends. Oh well.....back to sleep.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Doc Update
Grade 2/3 Groin Pull? Who would have thought. I never even considered it being my groin, but the doc said all the symptoms I was describing are pointing to a severe groin pull. Apparently the severity/grade is based on if there is discomfort walking (YES) and sleeping (YES). And the fact that there is no lateral pain is a good thing on the stress fracture front.
I am obviously going to keep the the sports med consult next Monday, as this was my GP who I don't love and also told me my shin splits in June was a stress fracture. BUT just the possibility that it could be something else than a stress fracture makes me rest a bit easier right now.
Oh, and the cold dip? Not such a good idea for a pulled muscle (tightens it up even more), so that could be an explanation as to why it was feeling so much worse over the weekend (I did 20 in the cold plunge at my gym on Thursday night.)
....But I mean, let's be honest...all this happiness could also just be due to the wonderful 'narcotic-like' anti-inflammatory the doc prescribed :) I usually hate taking meds, I feel they just cover up injuries, leading to worse injuries with type-A's like we all are, however....this....is....bliss :)
So NOTHING is allowed until I see the Sports Med Doc. No swimming. No cycling. Obvs no running. Just a whole lotta time spent being that creepy person who goes to the gym and sits in the hot plunge and doesn't work out. Maybe I will make some interesting friends???
Nat- thanks for the advice on the shots. I did indeed take some Motrin over the weekend. Malaria doesn't have a vaccine option, so it's pills or nothing. Since work is paying the tab, i will definitely fill the prescrip, however it just depends on the area of India we end up in if they are even necessary.
________________________
And so this isn't a post/blog of only injury whimpering...I made my final travel arrangements today for my trip. And when I say final, that means they may only change 5 more times before I leave. I will be going to India for a conference to present research, with personal time on both sides of the work to travel and visit old friends. From there I will head straight to South Africa where I will be working the entire time, which means I get paid to play on the weekends....not bad. And one weekend happens to be Easter weekend which is a 4 day holiday there (Fri-Mon), which is also the weekend of the Two Oceans Marathon/Half Marathon. So as of today:
Feb 14-Feb 20 Mumbai (leave US Feb 14, arrive night of 15th).
Feb 21-Feb 29 New Delhi for work
March 1-March 9 Personal Travel time
March 10-March 14 Jo'burg
March 15-March 24 Cape Town (Two Oceans!)
March 25-17 Durban
WHEW, even though I am so so excited to be going, it makes me exhausted to even think about that. And how does one pack for 6 weeks and two continents??
I am obviously going to keep the the sports med consult next Monday, as this was my GP who I don't love and also told me my shin splits in June was a stress fracture. BUT just the possibility that it could be something else than a stress fracture makes me rest a bit easier right now.
Oh, and the cold dip? Not such a good idea for a pulled muscle (tightens it up even more), so that could be an explanation as to why it was feeling so much worse over the weekend (I did 20 in the cold plunge at my gym on Thursday night.)
....But I mean, let's be honest...all this happiness could also just be due to the wonderful 'narcotic-like' anti-inflammatory the doc prescribed :) I usually hate taking meds, I feel they just cover up injuries, leading to worse injuries with type-A's like we all are, however....this....is....bliss :)
So NOTHING is allowed until I see the Sports Med Doc. No swimming. No cycling. Obvs no running. Just a whole lotta time spent being that creepy person who goes to the gym and sits in the hot plunge and doesn't work out. Maybe I will make some interesting friends???
Nat- thanks for the advice on the shots. I did indeed take some Motrin over the weekend. Malaria doesn't have a vaccine option, so it's pills or nothing. Since work is paying the tab, i will definitely fill the prescrip, however it just depends on the area of India we end up in if they are even necessary.
________________________
And so this isn't a post/blog of only injury whimpering...I made my final travel arrangements today for my trip. And when I say final, that means they may only change 5 more times before I leave. I will be going to India for a conference to present research, with personal time on both sides of the work to travel and visit old friends. From there I will head straight to South Africa where I will be working the entire time, which means I get paid to play on the weekends....not bad. And one weekend happens to be Easter weekend which is a 4 day holiday there (Fri-Mon), which is also the weekend of the Two Oceans Marathon/Half Marathon. So as of today:
Feb 14-Feb 20 Mumbai (leave US Feb 14, arrive night of 15th).
Feb 21-Feb 29 New Delhi for work
March 1-March 9 Personal Travel time
March 10-March 14 Jo'burg
March 15-March 24 Cape Town (Two Oceans!)
March 25-17 Durban
WHEW, even though I am so so excited to be going, it makes me exhausted to even think about that. And how does one pack for 6 weeks and two continents??
Sunday, January 13, 2008
A Whole Lot of Nothing
...pretty much sums up the weekend. Tried to be social on Saturday and met some friends for some afternoon beers and food to watch college basketball, but after a few hours (and a few beers) all the energy seemed to start draining from my body and I could feel the fever mounting. Not surprising with the shots, just headed home and took a nice nap.
Woke up to some SORE arms, however motivated to swim for 30 minutes.
The rest of the weekend has consisted of eating, sitting on the couch and watching football. Did get off my butt to swim with the triathlon group tonight, however only lasted 30 minutes again, due to sore arms and my nagging hip.
On the hip front, things have gone from bad to worse this weekend. I have finally conceded that something is definitely wrong, as almost every movement hurts and any weight on it has become painful, and I have a pretty high pain tolerance in general. I made a sports med. doc appointment, but her first available was not until Jan21, so I will go to the GP hopefully tomorrow afternoon and try to get a jump on figuring this out. It has been 9 days since i last ran, I believe that is the longest since I started running that I have gone without running. And the time off is definitely not improving the hip, as it seems to slowly but surely be getting worse.
I'm just sort of at a loss as to what to do, as 'not putting weight' on it is obviously not an option in the city I live in, etc.
Hopefully a positive update to follow a doctor's visit tomorrow.
Woke up to some SORE arms, however motivated to swim for 30 minutes.
The rest of the weekend has consisted of eating, sitting on the couch and watching football. Did get off my butt to swim with the triathlon group tonight, however only lasted 30 minutes again, due to sore arms and my nagging hip.
On the hip front, things have gone from bad to worse this weekend. I have finally conceded that something is definitely wrong, as almost every movement hurts and any weight on it has become painful, and I have a pretty high pain tolerance in general. I made a sports med. doc appointment, but her first available was not until Jan21, so I will go to the GP hopefully tomorrow afternoon and try to get a jump on figuring this out. It has been 9 days since i last ran, I believe that is the longest since I started running that I have gone without running. And the time off is definitely not improving the hip, as it seems to slowly but surely be getting worse.
I'm just sort of at a loss as to what to do, as 'not putting weight' on it is obviously not an option in the city I live in, etc.
Hopefully a positive update to follow a doctor's visit tomorrow.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Shots x 6
I just got 6 shots- three in each arm. I can't even list them all, and still have two oral vaccines to do before I leave. Oh and 30 malaria pills to take, which I may or may not do, depending on the final plans for India travelling after the conference. But at least now I can eat whatever I want in India and not worry too much (thanks to Typhoid oral vaccine). That is the one I had never had and really wanted. The doctor also recommended Japanese Encephalitis which I thought was strange, but I wasn't going to argue. Also got a prescription for Cipro in case I have any, ahem, 'tummy' troubles, if you will, while i am gone.
I walked home from the doctor to get in my 30 minutes today, but I am wiped out.
Also treated myself to a little retail therapy on the walk home:
...Just ordered a pizza and am going to sit on the couch for the rest of the weekend. Can't wait. Here's to hoping I don't get sick from the shots that are supposed to keep me healthy.
I walked home from the doctor to get in my 30 minutes today, but I am wiped out.
Also treated myself to a little retail therapy on the walk home:
...Just ordered a pizza and am going to sit on the couch for the rest of the weekend. Can't wait. Here's to hoping I don't get sick from the shots that are supposed to keep me healthy.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
CONFIRMED!!
It's official- I just entered the Two Oceans Half Marathon in Cape Town, South Africa on March 22. Based on my hip right now, I think this will end up being my first race of 2008, and I could not be more excited about it. I will be in Cape Town with a colleague who is also a runner, virtually the same pace as me, and the hotel we are staying at is about 1km from the start. It will be an amazing finish to a 5 week work trip to India and South Africa, and a AMAZING way to start off my 2008 race schedule.
Course looks to be very tough, but is also said to be one of the most beautiful in the world!
Dear SARAH L------
Your entry in the 2008 Two Oceans Half Marathon (21 km) has been CONFIRMED.
Your final race details are as follows :
Name : SARAH L------
Gender : Female
Nationality : United States of America
Category : Age 20-39 (Senior)
Race : Half Marathon (21 km)
Race Number : 70125
Seeding : C
Champion Chip : Will be in your race pack at Registration
Race Date : Saturday 22 March 2008
Start Time : 06:00
Start Venue : Main Road, Newlands
Finish : Upper Campus Rugby Fields, University of Cape Town
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
8 in a row!!
This challenge is doing me good! I have worked out the past 8 days in a row and feel great, although a bit drained and my legs are SHOT after two hard spin days in a row. Today was an easy, recovery 30 minutes on the elliptical at lunch, and some stretching.
I have not run since Friday, despite AMAZING weather here in NYC. It has taken A LOT not to get out there and run, from what I have heard, the park has just been crazy with the heat wave. My hip is feeling OK- still definitely sore and nagging, but the sharper pains that were prohibiting movement have gone away. I miss running :(
Plan for tomorrow is a double spin (1:45), then an hour swim. Hoping that taking it easy today on my legs will help get me through it.
Oh, and I found out today that there is a gym on the campus where I work (my employer rents space in a building on a University campus), and apparently b/c I have an ID, I can use it for free. Going to check it out this afternoon, if it has showers, etc, I may even be able to do some lunch time running on the East River in the spring!
I have not run since Friday, despite AMAZING weather here in NYC. It has taken A LOT not to get out there and run, from what I have heard, the park has just been crazy with the heat wave. My hip is feeling OK- still definitely sore and nagging, but the sharper pains that were prohibiting movement have gone away. I miss running :(
Plan for tomorrow is a double spin (1:45), then an hour swim. Hoping that taking it easy today on my legs will help get me through it.
Oh, and I found out today that there is a gym on the campus where I work (my employer rents space in a building on a University campus), and apparently b/c I have an ID, I can use it for free. Going to check it out this afternoon, if it has showers, etc, I may even be able to do some lunch time running on the East River in the spring!
Monday, January 7, 2008
Feeling Good.
Just returned from a 75 minute spin class, hip only hurt a bit at the end of a 10 minute climb- however most of my legs were hurting at that point, so I am not too sure the hip pain was injury related. My hip did feel significantly better all day today, hoping that no running this week will do the trick.
I can't decide if I love or hate the spin instructor for tonight's class. People seem to LOVE his classes, always full, have to sign up about 30 minutes prior to even get on a bike. He is a 'real cyclist' IE, it isn't an aerobics-esque spin class, it's the real deal. It's mentally challenging, he isn't a screamer/loud teacher, he just puts on the music, tells you how much resistance to have on a scale from 1-5, and tells you when to climb. No countdowns, no sugar coating. I think the mental toughness in getting through his classes will be very helpful when it comes to my first Half Ironman in June, Eagleman. It is a notoriously flat course, and to me, that equals boring!! So I think if i can develop some mental toughness though this spin class, it will go a long way 30 or 40 miles into the Eagleman bike.
I am going to put my main focus and energy into the bike before I leave on my trip in 6 weeks. This will take the form of mostly spin classes, as I am too lazy and broke to invest in a trainer right now. However, it also means that if there is a nice day, I WILL get out on my road bike!! I even ordered a cute cycling jacket today so I have no excuses. It will be easier to run/find treadmills while traveling, so if I build up a big base on the bike over the next 6 weeks before leaving, I will be a bit less nervous about the time away and off the bike.
I also found out today the hotel I am staying at for 9 days in New Delhi has an outdoor 50 meter pool!! That doesn't even bring back the dread of sat morning long course practices from college, it gets me quite excited!!
Plan for tomorrow is to book the details of a work-related training I have to attend in Philly in a few weeks, as well as my one way ticket to Mumbai. I have time to figure out the second half of the trip and just how I am getting from India to South Africa, but for now, at least knowing I have (hopefully an aisle) seat to Mumbai on Feb 14 will make me rest a bit easier about all I have to do in the next six weeks!!
I can't decide if I love or hate the spin instructor for tonight's class. People seem to LOVE his classes, always full, have to sign up about 30 minutes prior to even get on a bike. He is a 'real cyclist' IE, it isn't an aerobics-esque spin class, it's the real deal. It's mentally challenging, he isn't a screamer/loud teacher, he just puts on the music, tells you how much resistance to have on a scale from 1-5, and tells you when to climb. No countdowns, no sugar coating. I think the mental toughness in getting through his classes will be very helpful when it comes to my first Half Ironman in June, Eagleman. It is a notoriously flat course, and to me, that equals boring!! So I think if i can develop some mental toughness though this spin class, it will go a long way 30 or 40 miles into the Eagleman bike.
I am going to put my main focus and energy into the bike before I leave on my trip in 6 weeks. This will take the form of mostly spin classes, as I am too lazy and broke to invest in a trainer right now. However, it also means that if there is a nice day, I WILL get out on my road bike!! I even ordered a cute cycling jacket today so I have no excuses. It will be easier to run/find treadmills while traveling, so if I build up a big base on the bike over the next 6 weeks before leaving, I will be a bit less nervous about the time away and off the bike.
I also found out today the hotel I am staying at for 9 days in New Delhi has an outdoor 50 meter pool!! That doesn't even bring back the dread of sat morning long course practices from college, it gets me quite excited!!
Plan for tomorrow is to book the details of a work-related training I have to attend in Philly in a few weeks, as well as my one way ticket to Mumbai. I have time to figure out the second half of the trip and just how I am getting from India to South Africa, but for now, at least knowing I have (hopefully an aisle) seat to Mumbai on Feb 14 will make me rest a bit easier about all I have to do in the next six weeks!!
Sunday, January 6, 2008
DANCING!
It had been quite a while since I had a wild-and-out night. OK, well I guess not, considering I watched the sunrise on New Years Day. However, it had been ages since I had been out dancing in the city. After a not-so-great start to the evening (the always lovely semi break-up in the ATM booth on the corner), I decided I needed to make the night epic. College roommate was in town, and we ended up dancing from about 1 to 4am. Woke up feeling surprisingly OK, despite a few too many Vodka/Red Bulls and 5am pizza.
Tried to motivate to swim this afternoon, but my bed was just too warm and I decided that 3 hours of dancing more than counted as my workout for the day.
Did 30 minutes on the elliptical and a 45 minute spin class yesterday without much hip pain, have decided I am going to take this week off totally from running and see how I feel next weekend. Good time to get back into the pool- for real this time!!
Hoping to get in at least 3 spin classes this week (2 doubles) and 2 swims, as well as some QT time on the elliptical.
Also plan to pick up a copy of Shantaram, the friend I am meeting in Mumbai before I have to be in Delhi in Feb. for work recommended and the reviews are great.
Tried to motivate to swim this afternoon, but my bed was just too warm and I decided that 3 hours of dancing more than counted as my workout for the day.
Did 30 minutes on the elliptical and a 45 minute spin class yesterday without much hip pain, have decided I am going to take this week off totally from running and see how I feel next weekend. Good time to get back into the pool- for real this time!!
Hoping to get in at least 3 spin classes this week (2 doubles) and 2 swims, as well as some QT time on the elliptical.
Also plan to pick up a copy of Shantaram, the friend I am meeting in Mumbai before I have to be in Delhi in Feb. for work recommended and the reviews are great.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
If it's not one thing...
So over the past two years, I have slowly been trying to 'become' a runner. After swimming from the time I was 10, through college, I took a good year off from any type of physical activity, and slowly began running. I ran my first 10 mile race in Oct 2005 while in my second year of graduate school, on a long run of 6 miles and perhaps 10-15 mpw. It was painful and slow, but I was hooked.
Since moving to New York, running has become a way of life. I have learned to enjoy the daily release, the long run, and friendships that form on the streets of Central Park. However, over this time, I have constantly been dealing with making sure my body is on board with my new-found love of running.
Through-out college, I had horrible ITB problems, due to swimming 10 times a week, being a breaststroker, having minor scoliosis, and a 'tilted pelvic' (ie one hip is about 2-3 mm higher). I was religious about PT, stretching, icing, and managed to get through it. I also saw a Chiropractor on a regular basis for about 3 months in my sophomore year, and I think this is one thing that made a HUGE difference.
So since starting running, I have been very good about stretching/icing. My knees have flared up a few times, but with proper attention, it seems to be fine. However, it always seems "If it's not one thing...it's another." I always wonder what it would be like to be one of those people who can run and run and never get injured. Oh the joy. I battled with a shin splint flare up this past summer (June 06), but was able to rest and ice my around it through the end of triathlon season. I was also able to attribute the timing of the shin splits to a new pair/brand of running shoes. After switching back to my old shoes, I was able to slowly return to my weekly mileage.
This summer also marked the first time I started doing weekly workouts with a running group. I was doing things that I had never ever heard of: hill repeats, fartlek runs, tempo training. I loved the challenges, as they were akin to my swimming background, and I improved dramatically in a year. (HM time from 2.02 to 1.48, 10k from 52 to 48). I decided this winter I was going to focus on the run. If was going to achieve my goals and finish a HIM, I needed to be running consistently and smartly.
Best laid plans, right?? Around Thanksgiving I got fitted for new shoes. Not new shoes, actually, as I wanted to stay with my trusted NB 992 (not everyone loves, but they are the only shoe that I have found that don't aggravate my ITB). I did however, want to get fitted for size, as I had started to get constant blisters on the ends of my toes. The running store (a trusted and reputable one here in NYC) agreed that I should go up a size. After this, my heels started bothering me. Nothing too bad, just a soreness on the sides (not bottoms). I attributed it to the new shoe size, as well as the switch back to treadmill running with the weather turning. No biggie.
Then last week, during my long run of 8 miles (yes, that is long for me right now), around mile 6, my hip started to hurt. Nothing sharp, just a dull ache. By the time I got home, showered and stretched, I almost couldn't lift my right leg. Trying not to be a hypochondriac and use google against my good judgement, I iced and stretched and backed off a bit. Ran 3 more miles on the 'mill a few days later, felt fine, but it was definitely affecting my stride length (shortening).
So, I believe I have self diagnosed a hip flexor strain. All the symptoms I have read about are exactly what I am experiencing, and a common cause is 'over compensating for Achilles tendinitis'...hmmm remember that heel pain I was talking about? Damn. I will not over-react and freak out that i have a femoral neck fracture, b/c there is no way I would still be running.
One thing I am not good at is rest. Since my hip started hurting (8 days ago) I have: taken three days off, (only 2 in a row) run three times (3.5, 3.1, 4.1) and been spinning. My hip has hurt more after each run, but feels better before so I think I can do. Just at a slower pace.
After the novel that is this post, I NEED to take time to rest and stretch and just, perhaps go to the doctor. I am just SO bummed b/c I have some great running races planned over the next few months, ending with the Two Oceans half marathon in Cape Town that will be a once in a lifetime chance to run one of the most beautiful courses in the world. I NEED to find a way to stay/get healthy so i can be consistent in my training up through March 22. I don't' need to "race" ANY of my half marathons until tri season. I just scheduled them to help me maintain the distance of my long runs (9+) through the winter months.
I was hoping writing all this down and re-reading will help convince me I need to make a doctor's appointment, stop running for a few days, and realize it's not worth it. It has in a way, but it also makes me realize that my legs have protested my love of running from Day 1, and icing, stretching and Advil has averted every other problem I have encountered. It also makes me realize that all the injuries are no doubt related and go back to my back and pelvis. So the first appointment I will be making on Monday morning is with the chiropractor to get readjusted and evaluated. One visit the last time made a world of difference, and I am hoping for a miracle.
So it's yoga, swimming and spinning in the saddle until then. Think I am going to give up on the Manhattan Half Marathon (Jan 27) for now to take some of the pressure off of myself.
Oh- I ran 4.1 miles last night on the Westside Highway from Bank Street down to Battery Park and back- slowwww and steady and in not much pain. But this morning? Yeah, I'm like a lame duck. This stinks.
Also watched a GREAT movie- 'The Waitress' with Keri Russell. HIGHLY recommended- funny, sweet, poignant Very good.
Since moving to New York, running has become a way of life. I have learned to enjoy the daily release, the long run, and friendships that form on the streets of Central Park. However, over this time, I have constantly been dealing with making sure my body is on board with my new-found love of running.
Through-out college, I had horrible ITB problems, due to swimming 10 times a week, being a breaststroker, having minor scoliosis, and a 'tilted pelvic' (ie one hip is about 2-3 mm higher). I was religious about PT, stretching, icing, and managed to get through it. I also saw a Chiropractor on a regular basis for about 3 months in my sophomore year, and I think this is one thing that made a HUGE difference.
So since starting running, I have been very good about stretching/icing. My knees have flared up a few times, but with proper attention, it seems to be fine. However, it always seems "If it's not one thing...it's another." I always wonder what it would be like to be one of those people who can run and run and never get injured. Oh the joy. I battled with a shin splint flare up this past summer (June 06), but was able to rest and ice my around it through the end of triathlon season. I was also able to attribute the timing of the shin splits to a new pair/brand of running shoes. After switching back to my old shoes, I was able to slowly return to my weekly mileage.
This summer also marked the first time I started doing weekly workouts with a running group. I was doing things that I had never ever heard of: hill repeats, fartlek runs, tempo training. I loved the challenges, as they were akin to my swimming background, and I improved dramatically in a year. (HM time from 2.02 to 1.48, 10k from 52 to 48). I decided this winter I was going to focus on the run. If was going to achieve my goals and finish a HIM, I needed to be running consistently and smartly.
Best laid plans, right?? Around Thanksgiving I got fitted for new shoes. Not new shoes, actually, as I wanted to stay with my trusted NB 992 (not everyone loves, but they are the only shoe that I have found that don't aggravate my ITB). I did however, want to get fitted for size, as I had started to get constant blisters on the ends of my toes. The running store (a trusted and reputable one here in NYC) agreed that I should go up a size. After this, my heels started bothering me. Nothing too bad, just a soreness on the sides (not bottoms). I attributed it to the new shoe size, as well as the switch back to treadmill running with the weather turning. No biggie.
Then last week, during my long run of 8 miles (yes, that is long for me right now), around mile 6, my hip started to hurt. Nothing sharp, just a dull ache. By the time I got home, showered and stretched, I almost couldn't lift my right leg. Trying not to be a hypochondriac and use google against my good judgement, I iced and stretched and backed off a bit. Ran 3 more miles on the 'mill a few days later, felt fine, but it was definitely affecting my stride length (shortening).
So, I believe I have self diagnosed a hip flexor strain. All the symptoms I have read about are exactly what I am experiencing, and a common cause is 'over compensating for Achilles tendinitis'...hmmm remember that heel pain I was talking about? Damn. I will not over-react and freak out that i have a femoral neck fracture, b/c there is no way I would still be running.
One thing I am not good at is rest. Since my hip started hurting (8 days ago) I have: taken three days off, (only 2 in a row) run three times (3.5, 3.1, 4.1) and been spinning. My hip has hurt more after each run, but feels better before so I think I can do. Just at a slower pace.
After the novel that is this post, I NEED to take time to rest and stretch and just, perhaps go to the doctor. I am just SO bummed b/c I have some great running races planned over the next few months, ending with the Two Oceans half marathon in Cape Town that will be a once in a lifetime chance to run one of the most beautiful courses in the world. I NEED to find a way to stay/get healthy so i can be consistent in my training up through March 22. I don't' need to "race" ANY of my half marathons until tri season. I just scheduled them to help me maintain the distance of my long runs (9+) through the winter months.
I was hoping writing all this down and re-reading will help convince me I need to make a doctor's appointment, stop running for a few days, and realize it's not worth it. It has in a way, but it also makes me realize that my legs have protested my love of running from Day 1, and icing, stretching and Advil has averted every other problem I have encountered. It also makes me realize that all the injuries are no doubt related and go back to my back and pelvis. So the first appointment I will be making on Monday morning is with the chiropractor to get readjusted and evaluated. One visit the last time made a world of difference, and I am hoping for a miracle.
So it's yoga, swimming and spinning in the saddle until then. Think I am going to give up on the Manhattan Half Marathon (Jan 27) for now to take some of the pressure off of myself.
Oh- I ran 4.1 miles last night on the Westside Highway from Bank Street down to Battery Park and back- slowwww and steady and in not much pain. But this morning? Yeah, I'm like a lame duck. This stinks.
Also watched a GREAT movie- 'The Waitress' with Keri Russell. HIGHLY recommended- funny, sweet, poignant Very good.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Streaking Contest!
I have officially joined 'A Ticket to Kona's Streaking Contest'. The simple plan is to see how many day in a row you can do at least 30 minutes of 'health related exercise'. Unfortunately, I have already missed 1 day (Jan1), but being hungover, in the snow, in Chicago, and flying back to NYC, I feel OK with a Jan2 start.
This challenge will, if nothing else, help me to keep on track to build my base before my upcoming travels. I will spending about 5 weeks, (Feb 14-end of March) in India and South Africa for work, as well as some personal time interspersed. The timing stinks with St. Anthony's looming at the end of April, but hopefully I will at least be able to find a treadmill in my travels. With a half marathon planned in Cape Town on March 22, I sure better be able to find a treadmill!!
Hoping to get in the pool tonight, it has been a few weeks and I don't want to lose my feel, I had just started to get it back after my Oct/Nov hiatus from the water. Hip flexor is still sore, feeling better, hoping to get in a medium/long run this weekend, but don't want to push it too much.
This challenge will, if nothing else, help me to keep on track to build my base before my upcoming travels. I will spending about 5 weeks, (Feb 14-end of March) in India and South Africa for work, as well as some personal time interspersed. The timing stinks with St. Anthony's looming at the end of April, but hopefully I will at least be able to find a treadmill in my travels. With a half marathon planned in Cape Town on March 22, I sure better be able to find a treadmill!!
Hoping to get in the pool tonight, it has been a few weeks and I don't want to lose my feel, I had just started to get it back after my Oct/Nov hiatus from the water. Hip flexor is still sore, feeling better, hoping to get in a medium/long run this weekend, but don't want to push it too much.
2008 Race Schedule
Here is the ever-evolving 2008 Race Schedule:
Jan- Manhattan Half Marathon (Central Park, NYC)
Feb- Bronx Half Marathon (Bronx, NY)
Mar- Two Oceans Half Marathon (Cape Town, RSA)
Apr- St. Anthony's OLY Triathlon (Tampa, FL)
Jun- Eagleman 70.3 Half-Ironman (Cambridge, MD)
Jun- Gold Coast Sprint Triathlon (Port Washington, NY)
Jul- NYC Triathlon (NY,NY)*
Sept- Pumpkinman Half-Ironman (Maine)*
Oct- Queens and Staten Island Half Marathons (exact dates TBA)*
Nov- NYC Marathon (NY,NY)*
*Races I have not yet signed up for. Yes, yes, I know NYC is sold out, but I know of a couple ways I can get in...just trying to avoid the entry free :) I am also still VERY undecided about taking the plunge into marathon training. I have entry into the race b/c I ran 9 NYRR races in 2007, so I think no matter what I will enter, and then perhaps defer until 2009.
New Starts
A start to a new year, a new job, a new dedication to triathlon training...and a commitment to sharing my love of shoes with the world.
Hello, this is me. I'm not sure how this blog will evolve, but for now, it will provide me a space to keep track of my triathlon training, keep people up to date on my travels, and whatever else comes into my head.
No doubt it will also include my shoes...from boots to cycling to rainbows, and everything in between
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