The Beast from the (Far) East

[DeeRunning]

The beast in its subterranean hellhole, where natural air and light do not exist.

Da Nile is not just a river in Egypt; I've been living in it since graduation. I keep thinking that a run outside will be better, simply because that's what I WANT to do, but invariably it just turns into my own hellish version of Badwater, except in humidity and not *quite* as far 😀 I haven't been posting because I haven't been making much progress ... I may last 18 mins, 30 mins, but the relentless heat just feels like stupidly hard work and it's not fun or remotely enjoyable .

Even less fun though is the treadmill, but I have been doing a lot of reading and thinking and planning about running, and eventually came to realise that a lot of reading and thinking and planning about running - more than I am actually running - is counter-intuitive. Oh, who am I kidding, it's just dumb. Duh. So I've drawn up a training schedule for the treadmill and I'm committing to running inside for the rest of summer. Honestly, it shouldn't be/ have been such a difficult decision to make, but it flies against everything I want my running life to be. And I still find running on a treadmill ... tricky. I don't find it equal to running outside (outside is easier and more interesting) and with no air/breeze I get really hot and sweaty. But the beast does have some good programmes - I was on the Pacific Coast Trail this afternoon (!) - and some hills and things to mess around with, so I'm going to try to make the most of it.

I'll do three runs for the next few weeks then I'll be ready to begin the Bridge to 10K sessions. 10K on a treadmill? Bring it on. 🏃‍♀️💃

[Ripcurlrana71]

Oh Dee does sound like such uninspiring surroundings. But good on you and your determination to make it work! You’ll do brilliantly on the 10K plan. Xx

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to Ripcurlrana71]

Oh bless you Ripcurlrana71 , thanks for your encouragement. The 10k plan looks like fun! 😀😂

[Ripcurlrana71 in reply to DeeRunning]

It’s so doable and you can take your time too. Lots of support on bridge to 10K forum. 💪🏼 X

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to Ripcurlrana71]

I'll need to up my pace... there's a 30 minute time limit on the machines!! 😂😂

But I go when it's quiet so can generally stay on longer. I think I'll be doing the plan out of sync with others but that's cool. The 10 k forum is amazing, I've been lurking a bit 😎

[Goforitmama Graduate]

Well done for even trying to run in HK temperatures and humidex. I admire you for planning a 10k schedule on a treadmill.

I'm going to have to settle for a treadmill for some of winter (Canadian winters can get harsh, main problem though is ice under foot). I think that I won't be as ambitous as you and will settle for a maintenance program.

I've spoken to other Canadians about how to tolerate the treadmill in winter, they have told me to just run, don't think about it, run fast as you can some days, some days just do your usual speed, music is a must and 'loose yourself in the music', run to the beat.

Good luck, it's not forever, it's just until the worst of the season passes. I hope this helps.

xx

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to Goforitmama]

Thanks mama! It can be torturous: the torrential rain has finally stopped, the sun is out, pollution low, and it's still not suitable for running out there lol. I prefer to run without any music (but sometimes do) and try to practice mindfulness to stay in the moment, rather than distract myself from it, but we'll see how that goes once I'm going over 5Ks.

Oh my, Canadian winters could be a whole new topic in themselves! They are brutal, aren't they? Snow, snow and more snow. Much as I complain about running in the heat, i love hot weather (just as well, eh?) and fall to pieces in the cold. Good luck to you - will be interested to read how you get on with it when it hits. Hope you're still enjoying Oz! xx

[Goforitmama Graduate in reply to DeeRunning]

Yes, I'm still in Sydney. Went for another run on Saturday. Once I got away from the shopping mall (chatswood chase) I started saying good morning to everyone - and nearly all of them said good morning back to me. That was nice! Then I ran past a group of runners that were assembling for a group run. I didn't join them, I dont have the confidence (silly I know). It was a great run! The birds are so noisy here, I saw some very big white noisy birds (cockatiels or something...?) . When I got close to the mall again I stopped saying hello to everyone because that would just make me a nutter!

Hubby is in Melbourne for a couple of days, so running has to stop until he gets back.

I usually run outdoors and never use headphones either, same as you I like to be in the moment and hear the birdsong. But the message I get is that when running indoors you need a different approach in order to make it work and that means loosing yourself in the music. I'm just passing those words of advice onto you.

I used to run before, but had to stop when life changed. I used to run in anything up to -10 Celcius, it's okay, you just have to dress for it. But I can't / won't run on ice. I plan to keep going again this winter, but it depends on how much ice and how cold it gets.

I'm sure I won't be the only one wanting to know about running indoors, so please post any words of wisdom about what does and does not work for you.

Good luck, you just need to put on a different pair of big girl pants and need a different headspace. Go for it!

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to Goforitmama]

Phew the Aussies have redeemed themselves, somewhat... with a little nudge from you. Well done. From what i remember, most folk don't say hi to strangers but I haven't been there for a long time, and certainly never ran there!

I've only done 8 out of my 34 runs on the treadmill so far, and just staying on the blessed thing keeps me occupied. It's nice to watch the trails on the screen and imagine I'm running through the forests.

Sounds very wise to steer clear of the ice! So slippy and scary if you can't trust to put your foot down safely. At least it's a way away yet.

[Fabulous450 Graduate in reply to Goforitmama]

We’re travelling all over the world from our armchairs! It’s so nice to read about where everyone is! More examples of we can run anywhere! 😁❤️

[lexi6 Graduate]

Wow! Dee you are so staunch, I love your determination. I guess the dreadmill it has to be. Go you for aiming for 10km!

Not been posting myself due to the opposite problem to you and lurking instead. Managed 2 runs last week, but after finishing week 4 of B210k can’t get my 3 runs a week in 😢 I have decided to try again when the weather warms up, anyways a good opportunity to cut back on the pinot and eat less. Did a 50 minute workout in front of the telly this afternoon, soooo not the same, but forecast fine tomorrow and for Saturday parkrun 🤞🏃‍♀️ Go you! X

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to lexi6]

Thanks, hon. I've just been dithering about, head out for a run and see how long i can last sort of stuff, which is pointless and ultimately disheartening. I work best with a plan, so I'll see how this goes.

You mentioned you might investigate your gym re treadmill for the dreary winter times? Is that still an option? That is awesome you finished week 4! Have fun on Saturday, sounds like a great day out!

[lexi6 Graduate in reply to DeeRunning]

Hi Dee, bit late replying, sorry head hit the pillow and I was gone (stressful trip to the periodontist) I’m such a 🐔 these days with pain. I’ve looked at two of the local gyms, one is $12.00 a session and the other doesn’t really do casual but do “training for the over 60’s” Grey Power as I call it, so am just going to suck it up and run when I can. Stunning day out today so had a fab run. Jay66UK inspired me to do some online shopping, so have ordered new leggings in really, really bright colours, if that doesn’t bring the sun out nothing will!

Aaaw! I love tready, hope he/she looks after you x 🤞

[Jell6 Graduate]

What a trooper.

I can see that it's not a patch on running outside, but if that is likely to be unsustainable, then pragmatism wins out.

Realistically you have made the right choice.

Honestly, I am full of admiration for you doing any of the big runs in the heat and humidity.

I was just looking at the weather forecast tomorrow morning, and I may be doing my 10-15 minutes in the rain.🌧 .

Fantastic that you have 10k on your thoughts horizon. 🤩

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to Jell6]

Hey Jell6 , yes i've had to put expectations aside and be realistic and pragmatic (neither being some of my favourite things). My heart rate is in ridiculous zone outside just working too hard to stay cool and run, and felt I wasn't improving or getting anywhere. I'll see how tready pans out. See that? I already have a kinder name for it than the beast We'll get along just fine.

All the best for your knee and run tomorrow. Fingers crossed for you for rain!

[Jell6 Graduate in reply to DeeRunning]

Tready, yes that sounds very friendly 🤗.

I wasn't raining, but the Hokas did get to go through puddles!

[bonny_lass Graduate]

Gr8 determination. I finished my W6R3 today and till date I ran on treadmill and the only reason is that I feel I may not pull myself well if running outside . I think I should give it a go.

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to bonny_lass]

Congrats bonny_lass for completing week 6! Awesome. I think you should give outside a go too ... go slowly, take it easy and see how it feels. It's always good to have options and mix it up if you can. Let us know how you find it.

[bonny_lass Graduate in reply to DeeRunning]

Thank you DeeRunning for your support. I shall give it a go for outdoor run and see. Have a great day.

[BaddieThePirate Graduate]

Hello DeeRunning, just keep going even at a minimum level to keep your fitness. Training schedule sounds like a really good idea.

I'm missing making 100% improvements like at the beginning and am afraid I'll give up due to boredom/busy at work/sore ankle, but hope I'll get to the podium. After that I'm afraid I won't keep it up so started Park Runs so I meet other runners. I may join a group to keep me going. Or I might just get an allotment and go gardening instead!

Let us know how you get on, it's interesting to see what people do next.

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to BaddieThePirate]

Hey Baddie - I feel I'm a bit too new to running to just maintain minimum level of fitness when i still have so far to go. I've only been running for three months and have a lot to build on, so hoping the treadmill will strengthen the areas I need to improve... cardio, running legs, etc.

I have no doubt you'll get to the podium. You've been an absolute trooper through the programme and your determination comes through in every post. Have you seen a physio re your ankle? They may be able to help with strengthening exercises, and it may not be the ankle that's even the problem. Or is it because of your general inflammation? Love the positive steps you've taken to engage with other runners and motivate yourself further. An allotment would be a good idea anyway, on top of running!

[BaddieThePirate Graduate]

Haven't yet seen anyone about it. It takes 3 weeks to get an appointment with GP who knows my background, by the time my appointment comes around I'm normally better. There is an ace sports clinic guy nearby though so I may go there.

Have you thought of joining a running club?

[_SimonT_ Graduate]

Hi Dee! Sorry I’ve been away so long again!

You are amazing for attempting to run in those conditions every time. Why don’t you choose somewhere easier to run like Marathon des Sables? 😂

Are there any other gyms you can go to with nicer views and better air conditioning?

I really feel for you. I’m sure you can tame the beast. You already have a friendlier name for it. When you get going you’ll be able to say ‘ready, tready, go!’

The little screen vids are really good for taking your mind off being on a treadmill like you say. I’ve also heard people extolling the virtues of audio books to allay boredom.

Good luck! Xx 😎😎😎

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to _SimonT_]

Marathon des Sables? Are you mad?? Now, Badwater ... that's appealing!

Love, love Ready, Tready, Go! I will say that before every run from now on. And smile fondly at the machine like a crazy person.

There are nicer gyms that i'm looking into, but they're a train ride away and £100.00 per month plus sign up fee, which is ridiculous when all I want to do is run outside. The current gym is in the clubhouse of my apartment so it's very convenient and a lot cheaper. I'll keep an open mind and see how i get on with it. If nothing else, it will develop my mental fortitude. Or something.

How are you doing??

[_SimonT_ Graduate in reply to DeeRunning]

Hi Dee! Gosh that’s expensive for gyms. A typical membership here for a mid range gym would be £30 pm.

How much does a treadmill and air con unit cost? You could run in your apartment!

I’m fine thanks. Been running 5ks. I’m letting Strava post my runs now. Are you on Strava? If you are PM me your user name and I will follow you.

Been graduated about 3 weeks so now ready to start upping my distance.

Sarah (the missus) is coming to my gym with me tonight. I’m thinking about doing a treadmill run. I’d like to see if I can do a 25 min 5K.

I hope your reading about running is helpful. I have a book which I hope to read when I break up for the hols. It’s called Born to Run and was recommended on the forum. What I’ve read so far is really interesting but I’ve only had time for a couple of chapters.

Take care. I really hope you find a happy solution. Xx

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to _SimonT_]

_SimonT_ yeah the crazy rent prices here jack up a lot of costs, a lot of the time you just know you're subsidising the outrageous rent businesses (and residents) have to pay. Don't start me There would be slightly cheaper options but they will be further away and longer underground commute time. Can't have a treadmill in the apartment as it would be way too noisy I think for the poor folk living below us.

That's ace you're regularly doing your 5K runs, sounds like a really solid consolidation. You're a speed machine and I have no doubt you'll make the 25 min 5K! It will totally impress Sarah!

I'm not on Strava - no point when I'm running on the spot! Haha. I tried it and it doesn't register treadmill runs. I've read some really interesting stuff, Born to Run was one of them. Mainly books about ultra endurance stuff which is just mind blowing. Enjoy your well-earned holidays xx

[Fabulous450 Graduate]

Wooh hoo Dee! Tame that beast!! Sounds like the treadmill is the most sensible option for you really. The season will pass and you can get back out on the road again! I’m already thinking I’ll no doubt be on one of the beasts in the winter months, as it’s so dark in the mornings and evenings. Good for you for taking the step to do it even though it’s not what you prefer! Like you said it’s better than not running at all! “Off you go” to 10k, as MJ would say! 👋🏽👋🏽 ❤️

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to Fabulous450]

Thanks, Fabulous450 ! Look at us being all sensible and planning treadmill escapades for when the outdoors isn't quite so inviting. Feels quite grown up - we're both 50 next July so it must be an age thing! Wisdom comes with years, n all that! I never had the pleasure of MJ (can't download the app here), really wish I could have had him as a coach. Although flying solo kinda suits me better anyway!

[Fabulous450 Graduate in reply to DeeRunning]

Hey Dee! Hi five for being in the almost 50 club! ✋🏽We are sensibly unafraid to take on what gets thrown at us! 🤣🤣! We find a way! Nice 😁😁! MJ was a great Coach. But I’m absolutely loving going solo now. I am using the Nike+ App but I flit around thinking about what run I fancy doing today, until something just says, yes, give that one a go! It’s bliss! Let’s continue to be Rebel Runners Dee! Best wishes for your indoor runs. I’ll enjoy the outdoor ones and then we can swap. Deal??😉❤️

[DeeRunning Graduate in reply to Fabulous450]

That's definitely a deal Fabulous450 . We'll be the Swinging Solo Sisters! Indoors or outdoors 😀🏃‍♀️

[ccarter100]

I found success on the treadmill by covering up the numbers with a piece of paper. I plugged in a book, and I wasn’t in a boring room, but in another place altogether.