tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53778863880195966062024-03-19T17:08:24.275+08:00We'll show youopus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.comBlogger155125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-60202236552358998812015-11-12T22:33:00.001+08:002015-11-12T22:33:44.096+08:00GE Women's Run 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We ran. We panted. </div>
<br />
1 November 2015, GE Women's Run... Once again, Opus and I did the 10k. Favourite run! Great route, well-organised, and like Opus says, it's all girls and no sweaty men. Aaaah. And this year, they had volunteers spray you with sunblock while you're in the starting pen waiting for the gun. So thoughtful!<br />
<br />
Another new feature this year was the tutus. Yes, TUTUS! Women who were running for a cause they supported chose to wear a tutu while they ran. Many did so. And the tutus came in all colours and some took the effort to decorate their tutus with badges, feathers, pompoms, lace, hand drawn pictures and embroidered motifs. Really cute. A super girly run.<br />
<br />
The haze cleared a few days before so it was all systems go as far as the weather was concerned. I'd been down a cold the past week or so and wasn't sure how I'd feel on the day itself but was quite sure I wanted to run anyway as long as the PSI was below 100 on race day.<br />
<br />
It turned out to be a great sunshiny day! It had been raining too so it was nice and clear. Met J and Opus but second year in a row. we just couldn't find C. We were flagged off in the second wave and it was a good, comfortable run.<br />
<br />
I'm really getting used to the NB Nimbus zero drop shoes though it seems that NB is phasing them out of production. They're getting harder and harder to find! I'm not sure it's such a good idea to stock up on them either.<br />
<br />
Post run, they offered the BEST drink - sparkling Ice Mountain! Only gripe is that them organisers were a tad stingy. Only one bottle per runner. Bah. Oh wait. One more bit of unhappy news - no Nando's this year!!! And heyyyy, where was the bouncy castle this year?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrF9KNynYKl7tqu9TahL72QTk2K8PRiyS_3wyQLyfdB6KrA7OzRj382PYJfbOXNfFIyCqVFrNQYTkrK3Ai7t_a1Mf995tDdPg7uHhSPAmefRNpYUE0LEtVjsUpze36ZHd-X77HCXOJnq-/s1600/22176287538_b422018120_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrF9KNynYKl7tqu9TahL72QTk2K8PRiyS_3wyQLyfdB6KrA7OzRj382PYJfbOXNfFIyCqVFrNQYTkrK3Ai7t_a1Mf995tDdPg7uHhSPAmefRNpYUE0LEtVjsUpze36ZHd-X77HCXOJnq-/s200/22176287538_b422018120_o.jpg" width="156" /></a></div>
<br />
Anyway, I decided to do a screen grab of my timing to help me track how I've been performing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6-dJuMZlpNJRqiPz8PmNkqfsFsz2gqcI6l1MVd3YyIF81iLjA8V9e6gWnE-1Eky60i4mwCxX3wnY-bYZLbrmoa4PbkW6BweciaTyi-zNF5C3ReKt2jTxKXBi7yBsbgXK8eoAiC4Qsrp0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-11-11+at+09.54.38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6-dJuMZlpNJRqiPz8PmNkqfsFsz2gqcI6l1MVd3YyIF81iLjA8V9e6gWnE-1Eky60i4mwCxX3wnY-bYZLbrmoa4PbkW6BweciaTyi-zNF5C3ReKt2jTxKXBi7yBsbgXK8eoAiC4Qsrp0/s320/Screen+Shot+2015-11-11+at+09.54.38.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Quite happy with the time. Tried to push through even during the slightly uphill bits, didn't let myself stop but tried to change my stride, take deeper breaths and think calm, happy thoughts of getting a cold shower and possibly prata for lunch. Whatever it takes, right?</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703470518329691614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-29672494149928428552015-11-11T11:46:00.002+08:002015-11-11T11:49:27.674+08:00Dusting off....It's been quiet here! But I'm back.<br />
<br />
I can't explain why it took so long to start (or, re-start) blogging again, especially when there have been more than a few occasions when I thought to myself, I should blog about this! I can't seem to hold on to those thoughts, as much as they were inspirational, epiphanic or stirring at the time. Of course there have been the smaller, lighter observations which were blog-worthy too. All gone, crowded out by busyness and forgetfulness.<br />
<br />
I've just finished reading <a href="http://www.chrismcdougall.com/born-to-run/" target="_blank">Born to Run</a>, by Christopher McDougall (thanks, Opus!). It's a fascinating book with amazing, almost unbelievable characters. I was compelled to google some names mentioned to see what some of these people looked like, to check out if they were even real. What intrigued me was, the idea that humans were designed physically to be running machines. How can this be? I find running a chore, even after all these years of trying to like it. What am I doing wrong? A related thought was, wouldn't it be interesting to be trained by the likes of professionals, e.g. Eric Orton?<br />
<br />
The other thing that struck me was how there seemed to be a correlation between great running and pure hearts. Examples are littered throughout the book with ironmen with hearts of gold. Has running made me a better person? Or more likely, is it the case that I'm a bad runner because I don't quite like people?<br />
<br />
One other thing in the book also impressed me. That these ultrarunners experienced great joy while running. And we're talking about running impossibly long distances, through rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions. Insane!<br />
<br />
I mostly feel a quiet peace to be alone during my runs, listening to the water, resenting the heat and thirst I feel, estimating the distance left, thinking about the day ahead, organising errands mentally and sometimes, consciously correcting my footfall and trying out different rhythms of breathing. Not a very others-centric activity at all, even during times when I am burdened about someone and silently talk it through with God during the run. And my default expression is definitely not a pretty one, nothing close to a smile.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703470518329691614noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-86486907592896538112013-07-25T09:03:00.000+08:002013-07-25T09:03:22.284+08:0070 year old triathloner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-KdywaNuJA/UfB5QtojkwI/AAAAAAAAATA/aXeXJV7iGiE/s1600/Eddie-Brocklesby-70-has-q-010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-KdywaNuJA/UfB5QtojkwI/AAAAAAAAATA/aXeXJV7iGiE/s320/Eddie-Brocklesby-70-has-q-010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I wanted to show you this article to inspire you - 70 years old and running triathlons! She only started when she was 52. A good reminder that it's never too late to start, and that it's all in your attitude. Good job, lady!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/the-running-blog/2013/jul/21/britain-oldest-female-triathlete">http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/the-running-blog/2013/jul/21/britain-oldest-female-triathlete</a><br />
<br />
...and then the comments reminded me: man, I hate being passed by old people when I run! Ha. And believe you me, I get passed by plenty of fleet-footed oldies. Dang it.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-491952963873589272013-04-30T12:54:00.002+08:002013-04-30T12:54:44.507+08:00Commitment MadeI have gone and done it. Signed up for a 3-in-1 deal, so I'm committed to: an aquathlon, a duathlon and a triathlon next year.<br />
<br />
Yay!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl1zDtjcXEw/UX9OgzsE6wI/AAAAAAAAASE/sUkvM2ZypBg/s1600/run-bike-swim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl1zDtjcXEw/UX9OgzsE6wI/AAAAAAAAASE/sUkvM2ZypBg/s1600/run-bike-swim.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-87244075186897016082013-03-27T16:08:00.001+08:002013-03-27T16:08:50.299+08:00Ouch<p dir=ltr>Yesterday I decided to try out the new trainers. This is after zero running the past 10 days. I took the advice of the NB guy at the shop and took it easy...he had painted a picture of the worst case scenario and I really had no idea how difficult or painful it would be to run on these new shoes.</p>
<p dir=ltr>To be safe, I wanted to be near the car in case I had to crawl back. Ended up running little circles in the Bougainvillea Park. So many people at the beach today! </p>
<p dir=ltr>The shoes feel great, fit like a glove though now I'm much more aware of how the left and right feet are not quite symmetrical. They are almost weightless and you can feel what's you're stepping on, so I was extra careful to avoid pebbles and cones. </p>
<p dir=ltr>Urgh. I ran for about 10 minutes, slowly and deliberately trying to land mid-foot, and then stretched. Could already feel tense in my calves. Another 10 minutes and I'm done, I thought. But I couldn't even make 5 more minutes.....</p>
<p dir=ltr>Today, I'm suffering. Yes I stubbornly refused The Stick. I can hobble along but it's torture to go down stairs. </p>
<p dir=ltr>Is this a sign I'm doing it right? <br>
</p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4jvhCUjUMqTnu2IPgT_am8f01w9AbowDp80Z_mr8fOnRiFpzsiX6ECJA3tL5OixK47IxsgQG0B9p99MwyDs-v6Vd0CElcT7uIl_3r41UbBQzmOACFZKbAPqcLVYgdJ0K0Sh8olSRDnXC/s1600/20130326_073920.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4jvhCUjUMqTnu2IPgT_am8f01w9AbowDp80Z_mr8fOnRiFpzsiX6ECJA3tL5OixK47IxsgQG0B9p99MwyDs-v6Vd0CElcT7uIl_3r41UbBQzmOACFZKbAPqcLVYgdJ0K0Sh8olSRDnXC/s640/20130326_073920.jpg' /> </a> </div><div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ZyjEORJuMXXJeagqhjiylRj1Y-tsvEGlzqf4Ci5Dp7FXptkKmcmTqqqHy7xZQJwjFKY-NJMqSSIm64oeZ3otQSpdjzorUEEfebOURbKZrMKqX4FCHsPwprwgMvldCn8hvmpGEN059QLi/s1600/20130326_073934.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ZyjEORJuMXXJeagqhjiylRj1Y-tsvEGlzqf4Ci5Dp7FXptkKmcmTqqqHy7xZQJwjFKY-NJMqSSIm64oeZ3otQSpdjzorUEEfebOURbKZrMKqX4FCHsPwprwgMvldCn8hvmpGEN059QLi/s640/20130326_073934.jpg' /> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703470518329691614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-38264634950944014372013-03-25T20:52:00.000+08:002013-03-25T20:52:21.114+08:00Duathlon Numero UnoDuathlons are fun!<br />
<br />
They're certainly less boring than running 10K, that's for sure. Tried out my first duathlon yesterday (was it only yesterday?!) which consisted of a 3K run, a 20K bike, then a 3K run again.<br />
<br />
A duathlon is not the same as a biathlon, as some people might think. A biathlon generally refers to the sport of cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Yes! Hm, that sounds fun too.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.biathlonews.com/wp-content/uploads/11188312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://www.biathlonews.com/wp-content/uploads/11188312.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not what I was doing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So anyway, back to the duathlon. The first 3K was a nice run, then you hop onto your bike and start riding - a stretch of road in Sengkang was blocked off for the event. I loved how there were your hardcore competitors as well as regular folk and newbies. I saw more than a few fat tyres (hybrids, mountain bikes) and even 1 or 2 fixies and foldies! The depressing thing is, they ALL passed me. I was slow. Slow slow slow.<br />
<br />
The second 3K I was wheezing and shuffling my feet badly. Barely faster than walking pace. Nice people ran past me and called out encouragement. That's how sad and pathetic I looked, ha ha. Even an uncle and auntie out for a stroll/picnic asked me if I wanted an umbrella. Uncle asked this. Then Auntie told him not to kachow me.<br />
<br />
After 1 hour and 51 minutes, I finished. I was one of the last few, but I achieved my goal of not being the ACTUAL last person, and my personal target of getting in under 2 hours.<br />
<br />
Yay! I've bitten the multisport bug. What now? Join me, runningstitch!opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-64363753990319519642013-03-13T23:36:00.001+08:002013-03-13T23:38:47.523+08:00Some Ramblings<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today I ran! My GPS failed and I've no idea how much I covered today. I did stop to take a photo (しゃしんをします)of a fish 魚 I saw stuck when the tide went out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's hard to believe It's been 5 years, and one of the things I said to Opus during the run was, time to get new shoes! My Asics have served me faithfully but they are old (古い )and worn.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So....today I went to the New Balance store at I12 Katong and got myself a pair of minimus trainers! Photo soon! Quite excited about learning how to "run naturally ". 新しい靴ですね!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More running related shopping in store; the elusive perfect bottle belt that can fit this giant phone. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am also trying to practice Japanese! 頑張ります!</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqeGfv8xMjTDaP7C9nHe3BoGvqYuk5w2HzoG6rvArspcmXEobsE1JKQvBMYS2lg_W1mHxhNKJU1W3PxKwMtAck4Y4d9qaODSiYSDxmp4-GS6Yhnyr5EQaUoeaLuPEeGj5NgTBLsgnqdazX/s1600/20130313_074441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqeGfv8xMjTDaP7C9nHe3BoGvqYuk5w2HzoG6rvArspcmXEobsE1JKQvBMYS2lg_W1mHxhNKJU1W3PxKwMtAck4Y4d9qaODSiYSDxmp4-GS6Yhnyr5EQaUoeaLuPEeGj5NgTBLsgnqdazX/s640/20130313_074441.jpg" /> </a> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703470518329691614noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-9303369737106957692013-03-08T17:21:00.001+08:002013-03-08T17:21:39.357+08:002013Hellooo 2013!<br />
<br />
Yes, I know it's already mid-March. Bear with me, for I am old and slow and sluggish.<br />
<br />
Runningstitch reminded me that we started running 5 (5!) years ago. Hooray! There have been ups and downs for sure and less running and more running at times. This year, I'm upping the ante.<br />
<br />
We started off the year with the <a href="http://singaporecityrace.com/" target="_blank">Singapore City Race</a>, a fun free-form running race where our intrepid Wonder Woman (ahem) team Mm Zai Si ran 14km! Yes, we thought it was 10. But it was 14. My legs were jelly. Carrie was just warming up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myLYzpkt7aY/UTmtVSERpPI/AAAAAAAAARg/Dxysb_WFSQM/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myLYzpkt7aY/UTmtVSERpPI/AAAAAAAAARg/Dxysb_WFSQM/s400/photo+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Next up: a duathlon!<br />
<br />
Yes. With a bicycle. And my legs. Mm zai si indeed.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-41956853582146130292011-07-11T17:19:00.002+08:002011-07-11T17:23:14.151+08:00The weatherIt's hot. I was at Daiso the other day, and a bunch of wimmen were buying up those arm covers that are supposed to shield you from the sun as you drive. Interesting.<br /><br />And I'm so tired, I'm seeing stars. 540am wake-ups are not fun.<br /><br />I lie down on the floor and fall asleep.<br /><br />This is the 2011 me. Heavier and less fit. Boo hoo.<br /><br />And all I can think of is ramen at Iluma - L, you wanna go?running stitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08848142432913037586noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-20463617779143320272011-07-08T23:18:00.002+08:002011-07-08T23:22:02.614+08:00Fun Fact #1: Running is tiringFirst, I took the dogs for a walkie, then I took myself for a run. I love running at dusk. The dullness of running was much improved with the lack of sun and slight breeze on my face. Ah.<br /><br />I ran/walk and trudged my way through 3k. Not too bad for a start as I painfully work my way back to fitness. Some people might consider 3k just a warm up. But those people are jerks.<br /><br />I have to say, even though I've stopped running for so long, I think the running I've been doing for the past few years has done some good, still! Starting from scratch isn't the same as last time - I think it's easier to pick up where you left off.<br /><br />Still have a ways to go. Left foot, right foot, left foot...<br /><br />Now, I want to sleep.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-23737967957465350722011-07-06T17:25:00.003+08:002011-07-06T17:28:44.543+08:00A new beginning. A heavy, unfit beginningOh cripes, how far we've backslided. By we i mean me.<br /><br />Since 2009 it's been a heady backward slide of soda, chips and generally overeating. It was tasty for sure. But bad bad bad.<br /><br />TO A NEW BEGINNING! starting tomorrow. hahahaopus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-12582966448170206982009-11-06T08:25:00.004+08:002009-11-06T08:44:57.533+08:00Anyone here?This blog is getting dusty! Where's everyone? Why has Opus posted about her women's run - where I abandoned you and you still managed a good time?<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_eMWIf7-v24D5GhQgZz0mgwqyMuWbUZz9d-6qFY9Y97FLXOkM3naudBhnCUa6I2sNo13CKC4qbYoXbwLg6sSvafp7Wvlm4OVGb1BpGW3zRknmlBzzvrcYuYyVFIez3p4c3yelwLSpxwK/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 78px; height: 116px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_eMWIf7-v24D5GhQgZz0mgwqyMuWbUZz9d-6qFY9Y97FLXOkM3naudBhnCUa6I2sNo13CKC4qbYoXbwLg6sSvafp7Wvlm4OVGb1BpGW3zRknmlBzzvrcYuYyVFIez3p4c3yelwLSpxwK/s320/images.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400784761152533074" /></a><br /><br />I've been meaning to blog about these compression shorts for ages. I got them a few months back and until yesterday, have had only a few chances to wear them, and all indoors. On Wednesday I finally went for a run at the beach wearing them. Met a handful of other runners there, and half of them were sporting compression apparel! Hmmm, interesting, no?<br /><br />Anyway, they feel nice and tight tho not so fun to get into. Imagine stuffing sausages, with lots spilling over. But once on, the jiggle factor is non-existent and it works great to wick away moisture and keep you feeling cool and dry and unsticky! 2 thumbs up for that!<br /><br />Of course there's the UV protection and all the technical advantages - improved blood circulation, prevent muscle fatigue, etc.<br /><br />PLUS you get to wear a size down (yes, it's got to be *that* snug).<br /><br />Doesn't this make you want to run out and buy yourself a whole outfit right now?<br /><br />I love my Skins!<br /><br />StanChart run coming up, and with or without Skins, not looking forward to it!running stitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08848142432913037586noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-7395947854609221042009-06-02T19:32:00.004+08:002009-06-02T19:44:24.348+08:00Me here!Blogging is taking up precious time, which could otherwise be used to topple Bejeweled high scores!<br /><br />Anyway, back to running. Saturday night's run was nothing short of tortuous though I must say I did think I was going to stop and walk. It just went on and on and on and on and on and on. Oh, you get the idea. 10.5k (I was deceived into thinking it was just 10k!) in the dark night, having to avoid low branches and motorbikes parked along the pavement and maneuvering uneven sidewalks is a great feat, for a fatigued runner who is semi-night blind. Plus, they had only ONE drinks station along that entire route. By 2k I was accosting marshals for water. I was obliged - but it was an entire bottle of Ice Mountain, not even cold at that. And because I was so parched (duck rice chilli!!) I couldn't afford to throw the bottle away (would be killer litter too!) and was sipping the entire route and in addition to the usual hard panting there was the sound of sloshing from the mineral water bottle. Sigh, so unglam.<br /><br />But yes, we finished, and bettered out previous times too! How glourious.<br /><br />Today I ran at the gym, 4.3k in 30 minutes. Legs still recovering from the run. Yesterday I cycled (don't get excited, only stationary bike). Maybe tomorrow I shall swim. Hmm, maybe we can join triathlon afterall!<br /><br />Opus thinks I'm training in secret, not unlike covert mugging... but I liked studying; why should it ever be in secret?running stitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08848142432913037586noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-79827698499258234132009-05-31T21:53:00.002+08:002009-05-31T22:06:34.173+08:00Where everybody?...namely, runningstitch!<br /><br />Well, we did it - the 10k at the Sundown Marathon. Woo hoo!<br /><br />I was happy with what I accomplished since it was the second 10k I'd participated in, but the first 10k I'd *run* the whole way. Yay! I hope that my time is better than the first one I run-walked... Though oddly I don't think I felt that exhausted at the end, so I dunno, may I ran really really really slowly.<br /><br />Too bad the event wasn't the most organised, my biggest grouse being that neither runningstitch nor I saw the clock!! I don't know know what my timing is! Grr. I'll have to wait till the website or whatever, and I hope that comes through soon.<br /><br />But, on the brighter side: the beer after the 10k was FANTASTIC.<br /><br />Oh, and best part of the run: when a woman easily passed me at the 6k mark WHILE merrily SMS-ing on her phone. Gah.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-57917142983272487982009-05-18T20:50:00.002+08:002009-05-18T20:51:15.499+08:00High ScorePreviously, I had already scientifically proven that running makes you smarter, and enables you to get a high score on "Who Has The Biggest Brain?".<br /><br />But does it help you get a high score in Bejeweled?<br /><br />Answer: Nope.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-36528955453240668692009-05-18T20:46:00.004+08:002009-05-18T20:50:20.825+08:00Aunties: Bane of All RunnersUsually when I run, I start composing my blog entry in my head. My positive, encouraging, triumphant blog entry about how well my plodding pace is going and how I am not going to walk this time! All was going well - I was feeling quite proud of myself today too, seeing as I took the dog for walkies (twice!), played tennis AND ran.<br /><br />So there I was, rather pleased with myself, less than 1km from home, when... I get passed by an Auntie! Not just slowly passed but *extremely* passed - she zipped right by me! She was holding a towel in one hand and a water bottle in the other - that's how auntie she was!<br /><br />BOo hoo hoo.<br /><br />My only comfort was that she stopped running about 100m ahead of me. Which leads me to believe that her entire run was only 110m, not the awe-inspiring 3.5k I did. Ha.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-19499408318195821792009-05-12T11:54:00.002+08:002009-05-12T12:05:22.237+08:00PossessedI've figured out the mystery of my life. I am controlled by the weather.<br /><br />On hot days, like today, where I am sitting in a puddle of my own sweat, I feel like squishing ants with tennis balls and doing nothing else but space-out and drink ice-cold Perrier. I don't like anyone. On cool days, I am agreeable and feel like buying things and eating everything in sight (does that explain Tokyo to you Opus?). <br /><br />I can't even begin to explain how crabby I am feeling now.<br /><br />Last week was remarkable, however, where exercise is concerned. I ran on Tuesday at the gym (3k), Wednesday at the beach (about 5k) and swam on Thursday as part of on-going droid training (6 laps - I'm ready for Amazing Race!). How is it then, that I don't feel fitter at all? Right now, my throat feels funny and I want to lie down and have a nap.<br /><br />In any case, this week looks like a washout for exercise already....running stitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08848142432913037586noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-27259016377298173052009-05-03T17:57:00.001+08:002009-05-03T17:58:46.126+08:00SaltyWhen I come home from a run, my dog licks me all over cos I am basically a giant salt lick.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-52575726781774293232009-04-30T20:53:00.001+08:002009-04-30T20:55:34.524+08:00Back on the wagonI've been so bad with training (as compared to runningstitch who is undergoing droid training...).<br /><br />Usually I'm on 1-2 weeks, then off 1-2 weeks. Totally inconsistent, no thanks to being generally busy with work. Aiee. Or Aigoo.<br /><br />Today I finally ran - a plodding road run. Definitely NOT 7:20 pace but I felt quite happy that I was able to finish at all. I am determined to be good about running in May, so that I can survive the 10k at the end of the month! It's good to have these race deadlines. Keeps us on our toes. (Har.)<br /><br />Gogogogogogogogogogogogo.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-12805117694131932182009-04-24T13:56:00.004+08:002009-04-24T14:19:42.403+08:00Training Week #2AIGOO! (Apparently, that's "aiyo" in Korean).<br /><br />On Tuesday, I text K and ask if Thursday running is on (I pray that for raincheck or real rain) and she replies "Yes running for sure!" Aieee.<br /><br />Thursday rolls around and we meet at school lobby again. Today, it's scorching. And still. And muggy. I want to give up already.<br />But no, we go to the beach. Is enthusiasm infectious? Or is it insanity in disguise?<br /><br />Warm up and chat and then run. We head in the opposite direction, thinking it may have more shaded pathways. Wrong! It was mostly uncovered, and even the pavement was hot hot hot under my feet. Breathing was tortuous.<br /><br />I let K run ahead though she slowed down a little so I could try to keep up. She exclaims, if I was on my own I'd given up way back! Even the heat is deterring the dear android.<br /><br />No idea how far we ran but the consolation was, she admitted after last week's run she could barely move her legs. Hee. I was ok after last week's sprint but how she can run so fast this week again, beats me.<br /><br />We agree that running with a buddy helps keep us on our toes/feet. So till next week.... but don't hold your breath.<br /><br />__________________________<br /><br />That was yesterday. Today, I was struggling with whether to just sit by the pool and finish some reading, or go to the gym. I decide to be a good role model and exercise, though I'd really rather just stay in bed and not change out of jammies the whole day.... Treadmill run, for 20 minutes and then some weights. I've put on a whole kilo! Am very angry, and tell myself to stop thinking of curry puffs. Good news is, I was able to run at average speed of 6:30! I think I deserve a Cornetto.running stitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08848142432913037586noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-85686455742308403322009-04-16T21:41:00.003+08:002009-04-16T22:06:22.467+08:00Never Run with a Korean ChickToday Ms Park and I decided to go to the beach to run together. I should've known better. Not to over-generalise, but I've since learnt that running with a Korean girlfriend is not a good idea. Or maybe one or a combination of the following should've clued me in:<br /><br />(1) She seems super fit and trim<br />(2) She has a great outdoorsy look, tan and happy<br />(3) She is Korean (like in, possibly N Korean?)<br />(4) She does Muay Thai<br />(5) She is always perky<br />(6) She finds the gym insufficiently stimulating<br />(7) She saw me once in running garb and asked to come along<br /><br />Anyway, we meet at the kids' kindy today and head to the beach. We decide on a 3k run. We start warming up and all this while, she's asking questions about my "training" (huh?) and previous runs, and tells me to run on ahead later, and not to let her hold me up. And we start off. <br /><br />Urgh, this woman is unbelievable. <br /><br />I'm panting like mad after the first 100m or so, because she is SO FAST!!! And she's talking to me the whole time! It *was* a beautiful morning, cloudy and breezy. So there I am, gasping for breath, and she tells me she's recently sent her maid home, managing the home on her own, and had just stayed up the past night to help hubby with secretarial work from 1-4 am (she does this several times a week)!! I grunt back.<br /><br />And I noticed she hardly has to breathe - or at least she doesn't wheeze and gasp the way I do at that speed. So she tells me, try and take long deep breaths! I'm starting to form theories in my head, that she's had military training (of the communist sort) or must be an android.<br /><br />Halfway, she turns and casually asks, do I know how to put in an abdomen workout while running? Of course I don't. I'm trying hard to not fall over and die.... Anyway, I say no and she tells me, (important multi-tasking lesson here) as you run, tighten stomach muscles and twist trunk from side-to-side. So *that's* what she's been doing, this cute twist and turn thing as she runs. I try it. It's hard! To concentrate on aforesaid task of not keeling over plus abdomen exercise... aieee. But it does feel good.<br /><br />Then, last 800m, she tells me, you have to run ahead of me, I need something to chase! Whaaaa??<br /><br />We finish in no time. I want to curl up and die. She was hardly perspiring, and all the way back she was encouraging me not to slow. She's sweet AND fast!! She's insane. I was my usual gross and drippy mess.<br /><br />Back at the carpark, we warm down and she tells me, see you next week! OH NOOOOoooooooo......<br /><br />Having said all that, I think I've been running at too comfortable a pace recently, and it was pretty good to really work out the lungs and legs. After a nice lie-down, I may be ready for next week. Perhaps *I* am insane.running stitchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08848142432913037586noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-33279075745061692612009-04-12T22:29:00.001+08:002009-04-12T22:30:59.380+08:00GymrunningEven though I still don't like running on treadmills, I'm starting to really see the benefit of forcing yourself to run at a fixed pace. On the road, I know I definitely slow down and can't maintain my speed... it's like a mental tussle, and it's TOUGH. On the treadmill at least I can look at numbers and know that I am maintaining a certain pace.<br /><br />I ran about 4.3k at a 7:20 pace... which I am pretty happy with, IF I could maintain that for 10k. Ha! Doubtful, but I'm working on it.<br /><br />In the meantime, I am still getting fatter. What the.opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-86776248412428117882009-04-07T22:04:00.003+08:002009-04-07T22:11:20.808+08:00At least it makes you smarterRunning makes you smarter. Proven. It's the endorphins, or the adrenaline, or the blood pumping through your veins, or the sweat... or something.<br /><br />Anyway after my run today, while I was cooling off, I decided to play the "Who Has The Biggest Brain?" app on my phone. I knew I'd be smarter from running, so I wanted to test it out. For days I've been hooked on the game and I haven't been able to beat my high score that I set the first time I played it. And sure enough, I played it after my run today and broke my high score! Yay! An even higher cyborg brain score! (runningstitch, play it on fb!)opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-53270186065419391232009-04-06T11:10:00.001+08:002009-04-06T11:10:55.307+08:00Fit n FatI am getting fitter but also, at the same time, fatter. WHAT IS THIS CRUELTY???opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5377886388019596606.post-56891348047768519062009-04-04T00:15:00.003+08:002009-04-04T00:22:09.460+08:00Steady Decline / Widening of the Great DivideI continue to eat runningstitch's dust...<br /><br />I haven't been running regularly for the past few months and have been too distraught to blog. But starting last week, I've finally (finally!) managed to get back into the old rhythm. Need to - 10k coming up! So been running usually about 3.5 to 4.5k.<br /><br />What I've discovered is that running in the gym is a whoole different story to running on the road. On the treadmill I get to keep a steady pace and that really helps. I manage 4, 5k pretty ok. But on the roads, a bit of incline and I'm thrown out of whack. Did a very slow 3.5 today. Ugh. If I do more, like 4.5k, it's a struggle!<br /><br />p.s. good news: my dead earphones aren't dead after all! They've come back to life! Yay! They're a bit iffy, but still working...opus2http://www.blogger.com/profile/09971518890035625109noreply@blogger.com0