Sunday, January 2, 2011

Passing Time on the Mill

Today I ran 11.5 miles on the treadmill for a total of 90 minutes. The first 4 miles were at a 8:00 pace, then 7 miles at a 7:30 pace, and finishing the last half mile at a moderate walking pace. I varied the elevation between 1% and 2%  throughout the run.  Overall, I felt energized, having eaten cereal and a banana for breakfast several hours earlier. My hips were doing pretty well - I could just feel a slight pain in the left hip towards the end of the run.

I watched the last 2 episodes of the third disc of Dexter - Season 3.  It's a pretty good show - about a serial killer cop who kills serial killers. A twisted plot, yes, but entertaining to say the least.  I've been debating what to watch next when this series is over. Perhaps I'll try CSI or Bones.  I tend to like the medical or police series.

Another thing that helps me when I'm on the treadmill is to get in tune with my running.  I think about my posture, breathing, upper body tension, stride length.  I try to shorten my strides and loosen my upper body to preserve energy.  I like to vary the elevation, as well, to increase my heart rate and challenge myself.

Some other ways to pass the time is to get a book on tape or listen to music. I've even heard of people who can read while on the mill.  I have yet to try these things, but once I reach my weeks of higher mileage, I'll be looking for alternatives for sure.

If you have any other suggestions, I'd love to hear them!

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