How I Incorporate the Treadmill Into My Training

I am in no way a personal trainer or a running coach, but I do have an opinion on how treadmills should be used to compliment your training.  Notice that I said compliment your training.  All too often, runners opt to run on the treadmill as opposed to walking out the front door and experiencing the joys of running outside.

Picture was found via google search at http://www.waggintailsdogtraining.com/RWing.htm



I use the treadmill for targeted speed workouts and as a tool to encourage negative splits.  Many times when I run outside, I unintentionally start out too fast and begin to fade as the run progresses.  Thus creating positive splits, which make it difficult to maintain my desired pace.  With the treadmill, I can force myself to start out at a reasonable pace and gradually improve that pace as the run progresses.  After just two months of occassional training sessions on the treadmill, I can already tell a difference in my ability to set and maintain an attainable pace on my various training runs.  The big question is will this carryover to race day, or will the adrenaline get the better of me?   

I avoid using the treadmill for my long runs.  In fact, I can't imagine running in place for more than an hour.  I love running, but that sounds miserable.  Plus, despite improved technology there is no way to truly replicate race conditions and various, changing terrains on a treadmill.  Hopefully this post will give you some ideas on how to better utilize your time on the treadmill, while at the same time encourage you to brave the elements and go for a "real" run.  How do you use the treadmill to compliment your training?  Do you prefer to run indoors on the treadmill or outside?  Why?  I look forward to hearing your answers.  Enjoy the journey!

Treat Each Day Like the "Playoffs"

As I was watching the NFL Playoffs last weekend, I started to ponder why teams and individuals don't treat everyday like the Playoffs.  Why do teams play harder when "more" is at stake?  What determines your attitude and how much effort you are going to put forth?  Do you want to be remembered as someone that only gives it his all in "big" situations? 

I want to be like Danny Woodhead.  Danny is an undersized, overlooked, running back for the New Enlgand Patriots.  Critics have doubted Danny his entire life, but he has fought on and continues to find ways to be successful.  To paraphrase Danny on ESPN's Sunday NFL Countdown, he said, "I'm going to keep fighting until the door is all the way closed."  This is a prime example of controlling your attitude and effort.  Don't let obstacles define you.

Attitude and effort are the two things that you have complete control over every morning.  Don't let the situation or your circumstances dictate your outlook on life and/or how hard you are willing to work.  Put a smile on your face and work hard everyday.  Don't wait for the Playoffs, because you may find yourself waiting for something that never arrives.  Take this opportunity to look in the mirror and truly evaluate your attitude and effort.  Enjoy the journey!

P.S. Please comment if you have stories about people that have overcome great obstacles to achieve high levels of success.

No More Slacking in 2011

Since May, I have been very "slackidasical" with my blogging.  Yes, this is a fictional term that I use to describe someone that is slacking and doesn't even care.  Going forward this will not be the case.  I started this blog to motivate people to live healthier, happier, more fulfilling lives. In 2011, I intend to refocus on creating a blog that encourages people to interact and motivate one another via comments, email, and twitter.  In my opinion, the easiest way to stay motivated is to interact with others that have similar goals and ambitions.  Let this be that portal.  With 2011 finally here, I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year!  Also, don't forget to dream big as you carry out your 2011 New Year's resolutions. I have posted my 2011 New Year's resolutions below for you to see.

1. Spend time with God daily
2. Take at least one vacation with just my wife (minimum of 4 days and 3 nights)
3. Wake up at 5:30 AM during the week to train (This is harder than it sounds!)
4. Run a minimum of 20 miles each week (0 for 1 so far, but you can track my mileage at dailymile)
5. Complete a marathon
6. Complete an ultra marathon (A 50k is good enough for me.)
7. Post twice a week on this blog (I'm off to a bad start with this one)  
8. Read at least one book per month
9. Call/email a different friend each week
10. Convert my 1978 Schwinn to a fixed gear or working 10 speed with original handlebars

What are your 2011 New Year's resolutions?  Have you gotten off to a good start?  I hope everyone has a wonderful year, and I look forward to interacting with you along the way.  Enjoy the journey!