So being a non-runner, I'm prone to listening to the advice every runner I know gives me. "You've got to do this Chris", "Make sure you do that, Chris", etc. I listen because I'm a novice runner. (Note to actual runners: I use the term "runner" for myself very loosely. I am not yet a runner of any type and those that might see me run would agree. But I need a term to utilize and "runner" is all I've got. So my apologies.)
But some of the advice was great. Most involved equipment. Like the new shoes deal. Much improved. I was running with the wrong equipment. I corrected it and I've moved on. Great advice.
Other advice was also good. Run to music. I do and it helps. Especially long songs that are like 10-12 mintues long. Those help and it helps me keep my pace.
Other advice included getting a good watch. One with a pace timer, heart rate monitor (with chest strap no less) so I know how fast my heart rate is going so as to not overtrain or run too fast. Yes, like that's a problem. But I got one.
I was also told about a new iPhone app called RunKeeper which tracks your run, pace, time and distance on a map using GPS. Very cool. I've used it the past three weeks and it works great.
But this morning, I set out for my run. I was in a hurry because I had a busy morning. So I set out at 5:15 AM running for training sake. But in my rush, I forgot my music. I forgot the iPhone. I didn't have my fancy running iPhone application. I didn't have my fancy heart-rate watch. I just got out and ran. Solo. Sans equipment.
And guess what? Turns out I ran 6 miles.
Officially matching the longest run I've ever taken in my life. All without the equipment. Just me and road. In my third week of training.
And it was good.
(But I did miss the music.)
