tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12919434135561412602024-03-13T08:43:37.557-07:00TRY-AthleteMy name is Jamike Lopa and this is my journal detailing my road to recovery from my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. It's an account of my experiences during this ordeal until I successfully conquer and achieve my old level of fitness. I'm doing this so I can remember...so that I'll never forget this experience and all the lessons I pick up. If you're visiting for the first time, take time to read from the oldest post to start from very beginning.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-50424208170731655392011-01-25T16:51:00.000-08:002011-01-25T21:35:27.831-08:00Edsa Run - Power of ChangeTime to effect change in the lives of others. Mark the date and join us on Feb 27, 2011. Be a HERO. <br /><br /><br /><object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ic7efB0ITJI?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ic7efB0ITJI?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="400" height="300"></object>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-12542347111028007682011-01-12T17:42:00.000-08:002011-01-25T21:35:02.671-08:00THE EDSA RUN<iframe title="YouTube video player" class="youtube-player" type="text/html" width="400" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5pq3szNvFWo" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen></iframe>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-35607783869683687342009-08-25T03:53:00.000-07:002009-08-26T17:48:24.794-07:00A Ninoy Runner Then and NowAs I was going through my clutter, I chanced upon this old photo of me taken during one of the ROAR runs in the 80s (that's my excuse for my confused Cure/Flock of Seagulls/Rick Springfield hair). <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66TiKMOqtIvFCCrPSjxsynhggIMHFvX_pZb23uvahRX8RMqQfEX4PGFX7OUD3GG4qsr8ywLqUW2a5KuT-921coCR5qYIGRwX1D42hLlT0k3Oy3LXDz7NVXZTDohIZNMM56csCS4H8YQE/s1600-h/jamROAR.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66TiKMOqtIvFCCrPSjxsynhggIMHFvX_pZb23uvahRX8RMqQfEX4PGFX7OUD3GG4qsr8ywLqUW2a5KuT-921coCR5qYIGRwX1D42hLlT0k3Oy3LXDz7NVXZTDohIZNMM56csCS4H8YQE/s400/jamROAR.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374234622730957250" /></a><br /><br />The ROAR runs were weekly weekend runs which start at the Baclaran church and end at Luneta. This was one of many the protest activities against Marcos and his senseless killing of Ninoy. <span style="font-weight:bold;">I was running then because I was pissed off!!! </span> I hated Marcos!!! It was personal as much as it was political.<br /><br />It really brought back a lot of memories in as much as it made me realize that much of what we fought for then are same struggles that Auntie Cory sacrificed so much for and to this day continue to plague us all. <br /><br />The problems and issues are overwhelming. I believe they can't be solved during my generation and I fear my children's generation. Where does one begin or do you even bother to start anywhere at all? I used to say to myself forget it! I'll just live my life oblivious to all these problems as long as my family is happy and healthy. <br /><br />It maybe divine intervention, or my dad and mom (possibly with Uncle Ninoy...GOD rest their souls) banging my head, that led me to be more involved with working with my brother Rapa in iamninoy. The idea of small "heroic" acts or being a hero in your own small way was a big eye-opener. A tiny act of goodness and kindness can impact many many lives in a huge way. And I guess, or I'd like to believe, this may be the same force that led my friends and I to form the <a href="http://www.iamninoy.com">iamninoy Runners</a>. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYsZc4gTnzpkXbdQKsUaT5gJqYvjN4U9wq8kAHs4Id1BDHPVcpeWub3cihHKyvObtxyhpoVmjD3OhDNFoyX8Vt_EAwxbNJqXLqHOYIeQE8oUSngWiYjgMiveHNIexiPuHngyzpj3Viz8/s1600-h/runners+group.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYsZc4gTnzpkXbdQKsUaT5gJqYvjN4U9wq8kAHs4Id1BDHPVcpeWub3cihHKyvObtxyhpoVmjD3OhDNFoyX8Vt_EAwxbNJqXLqHOYIeQE8oUSngWiYjgMiveHNIexiPuHngyzpj3Viz8/s400/runners+group.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374236080299795346" /></a><br /><br />The thought that by the simple act of running together we get to help kids have an education and a better crack at the future. <span style="font-weight:bold;">This is why I'm running now.</span> This time it's not political but what I consider as my personal stake at making a difference.<br /><br />Run with me. Run with us!!! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIg9Lth0m59HZNb7vwUT6b7LE2G4NLuL-XqSJPZYGjCSex_CqWqeXXMrITIyH9sNrHQ4kiH7uEyN_-BhIYJjTihQxqWoLOylZFVJzV_RovRSQtQibbw2fw7THDDhd3hu8TRt-yb3BqvU/s1600-h/jamKRR2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 226px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIg9Lth0m59HZNb7vwUT6b7LE2G4NLuL-XqSJPZYGjCSex_CqWqeXXMrITIyH9sNrHQ4kiH7uEyN_-BhIYJjTihQxqWoLOylZFVJzV_RovRSQtQibbw2fw7THDDhd3hu8TRt-yb3BqvU/s400/jamKRR2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374236312295920786" /></a>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-75588848907611708672009-06-24T20:09:00.000-07:002009-06-25T23:28:42.232-07:00Crashed Into Uncharted TerritoryLast Sunday, I ran the 15k Men's Health All-Terrain race in Sta. Elena. The course was both beautiful and challenging taking you through darting zigzags and rolling hills with nice views of the golf course and open fields. <br /><br />I must admit though that I didn't expect the strain it would have on my knees. It was probably because I was constantly shifting while trying to choose where to step with constant thoughts of ACL in my mind. Unlike running on the road, I could not get a consistent rhythm on my strides. By the 8K mark my right knee was already painful perhaps for compensating for my left. Past the 12th I stepped on what I though was shallow mud but quickly realized I was wrong as I twisted my right ankle on a camouflaged rock. That's when I though, "Shit, I forgot to tape!" hahahaha. After a few more meters, I decided to call it a day and walked the remaining 2.5-3K to prevent any serious injury. I finished at a shameful, 1hr57mins. that Mayi, Caecilia, and Franics thought I got lost in the trail. hahahaha. Thanks for the vote of confidence guys. <br /><br />This proved to be the right decision though because today, after 4 days of rest, ice, and arcoxia (hahaha), the pain in my knee is gone as well as the swelling on my ankle. There's still a little bit of stiffness and discomfort though but I think I'll be able to bike and swim this weekend and hopefully run next week.<br /><br />At the end of the day, inspite of it all, I had a blast. Given the chance, if they'll have it again, I'll be back. But this time I won't be a fool and will come more prepared. Ay naku...lesson relearned.<br /><br />Footnote: No pain nor strain felt in my hamstrings!!! Yessssss!!!TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-8466780270290269772009-06-18T01:40:00.000-07:002009-08-18T05:49:48.506-07:00Back From the DeadLast Sunday, June 14, I ran my first TRI race in over two years. I decided to join a mini-sprint so I can ease back into Triathlon with the least amount of stress possible. <br /><br />I'd have to say I was so surprised with the amount of people who joined. Two years back, there was only a handful of participants. Now ang saya talaga. Saw a lot of old friends and training partners. I was also pleasantly surprised to see old friends who are first timers in the sport. <br /><br />I had a blast and was really happy with my splits. SWIM 7:41; BIKE 31:47; RUN 17:20 for a total time of 56:48 minutes. I could have done much better though in my transitions. I was over 4 mins in my first and almost 2 mins in the second. But ok na din. Pwede pa pala. Forgot how much fun it is. <br /><br /><div><embed src="http://widget-bd.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=bb&il=1&channel=1441151880782951613&site=widget-bd.slide.com" style="width:400px;height:320px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:400px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782951613&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-bd.slide.com/p1/1441151880782951613/bb_t001_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782951613&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-bd.slide.com/p2/1441151880782951613/bb_t001_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide2.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782951613&map=F" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-bd.slide.com/p4/1441151880782951613/bb_t001_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide42.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a></div></div><br /><br />High point was my performance in my swim. I guess TI paid off and I had a more relaxed swim in spite of all the kicks received in the crowded pool. <br /><br />Now, I think I just have to put a structure back in my training so I can be better prepared. For now I'm just happy to be back. Another step forward. :)<br /><br />The recreational triathlete is back from retirement. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Photos with training partners Jun, Jaymie(2nd Place Womens), and Miguel...and nephew Juan (2nd Place Kids)</span><br /><br /><div><embed src="http://widget-d0.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=bb&il=1&channel=1441151880782951632&site=widget-d0.slide.com" style="width:400px;height:320px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:400px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782951632&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-d0.slide.com/p1/1441151880782951632/bb_t017_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782951632&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-d0.slide.com/p2/1441151880782951632/bb_t017_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide2.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782951632&map=F" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-d0.slide.com/p4/1441151880782951632/bb_t017_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide42.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a></div></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">All pictures courtesy of my lovely wife, Mayi. Yes! Lovely! Thanks Mayi!!!<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-52988422462012414282009-05-18T17:00:00.000-07:002009-05-18T17:48:38.375-07:00Racing to Update My Posts (Part 2)Guilty as charged! I'm really lazy to post regularly. But I know I have to because I want to make sure I document everything so I can have accurate archives of my recovery, and now training, so I can look back at it if needed. <br /><br />So here's whats been happening so far (in the past two weeks)<br /><br />1. Run training with Joar have been really great! I've successfully gone through intervals, uphill and level speed work, tempo runs, and LSDs (Long Slow Distances -- coined by Joe Henderson) pain free. I'm happy and excited. If I can continue at this state, I will hopefully be able to work on improving time and do longer runs. I usually experience pain after the 11-12 km mark. So I'm still keeping my fingers crossed. I just have to be smart about training and know when to push and when to hold back.<br /><br />2. I've started Total Immersion (TI) training with Coach Nonoy Basa. Together with classmates Joel Gironella and Miguel Pizarro, we have been battling to kill old-school swim habbits to achieve a better and more efficient swim technique. Easier said than done. Hahahaha. But I'm really enjoying it. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxcNRNiXPbY4TJo-B88KtF20YtCqeKLrLKLl2bCXxYwKDg2Nt0E631MwqUneEwxXshpkUpVuQsGV6avrXb1myIZSutapV-uOe_hxHAFWxPcCFg93nMJ8m2Fi8Cb5WgbrYMC47OY7uuuk/s1600-h/TIclass.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxcNRNiXPbY4TJo-B88KtF20YtCqeKLrLKLl2bCXxYwKDg2Nt0E631MwqUneEwxXshpkUpVuQsGV6avrXb1myIZSutapV-uOe_hxHAFWxPcCFg93nMJ8m2Fi8Cb5WgbrYMC47OY7uuuk/s400/TIclass.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337322803258904066" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">With Joel, Nonoy, and Miguel. Photo courtesy of <a href="http://thebullrunner.com">theBullrunner (TBR)</a></span><br /><br />3. Last Sunday, I decided to follow the advise of Jaymie (TBR) and coach Joar to finally get a deep tissue massage for my super stiff hamstrings. I've been putting this off since I haven't felt any serious pain in a while. But I yielded when warned that this stiffness might just eventually lead to a tear and another setback. Besides, I had nothing to loose by having the massage anyway. <br /><br />As expected, it wasn't the ordinary Spa-like massage. Not relaxing at all. Harry, the masseur really worked on my problem areas namely -- my calf mussles, my hamstrings, and my right ITB. <br /><br />I must say I was skeptical even after the massage. But I felt the benefits yesterday while doing hamstring exercises. I usually could not finish some exercise poses because they would start to stiffen up and become painful that I'd have to stop. But yesterday, they were ok. There was some slight stiffness but no pain. YES!!! Wow. Thanks Jaymie, Joar, and of course Harry!!!<br /><br />4. I haven't been biking at all -- not even spinning. I have to squeeze it in somehow. "Makisig" will ride again!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0PtjAURjUfrUN6HPuDEYsiw9QyrX1ofqBUW04YZ1KXH2aH5-7J3VsuPV75LKVemvUpsou7gK6-jgKOBltaM1P42Z7NnzRmoMFB33enwTJHGXBAI2ihogTN5RS1jiGv9fvW1ucNoY9po/s1600-h/jambike.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0PtjAURjUfrUN6HPuDEYsiw9QyrX1ofqBUW04YZ1KXH2aH5-7J3VsuPV75LKVemvUpsou7gK6-jgKOBltaM1P42Z7NnzRmoMFB33enwTJHGXBAI2ihogTN5RS1jiGv9fvW1ucNoY9po/s400/jambike.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337330383985860770" /></a>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-19691140500572738152009-05-07T00:39:00.000-07:002009-05-07T00:53:31.574-07:00YES!!!Last night, I went through a punishing interval routine with coach Joar pacing me. I was so tired I felt I was drunk. Hahahaha. It just confirmed the fact that I'm so out of shape. Oh well, the good side is I didn't feel any pain last night nor when I got up this morning. YEEEEEEEEESSSSSSS!!!!! Joar also gave me a really good stretch focused on my hamstrings. I believe that did the trick. <br /><br />Small victory but extremely happy. My fingers are still crossed.<br /> <br />I'll slowly get back there. I just need to push a little at a time. I'll get there.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-2363131487255399402009-05-05T20:02:00.000-07:002009-05-05T20:26:18.939-07:00Here GoesI've been running (and spinning) pain-free for the past two and a half weeks. Actually, I still experience stiffness from time to time but it's quickly solved after a good stretch. As far as I'm concerned, stiffness I can handle.<br /><br />Now that I'm ok (or at least I think I'm ok), I believe it's time to get back to more serious training. Last week, I started training sessions again with my running coach, Joar. Last week was a fairly light session. Good workout, nothing fancy, still no pain. I believe though that today will be much different. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Going through a rigorous session with Joar and coming out of it pain-free will be such a milestone. <br /><br />In addition, on Friday, I start my TI swim training with friends Joel Gironella, Miguel and Jaymie Pizarro under coach Nonoy Basa. I'm mixed feelings. I'm excited and anxious at the same time. Don't know how I'll do. I was never a strong swimmer and always struggled with it the most on Tri events. But I'm desperate. I need to be taught how to swim more efficiently and hopefully enjoy my it more. So let's see.<br /><br />I'm glad though that I'm doing these things. I see it as progress and I like that. I go by what my friend Javy Olives (<a href="http://positivesplit.blogspot.com/">Tri'n Hard</a>) told me, "jump in head first...bahala na". So I'm taking your advice Javy. Here goes...hopefully something. HahahahaTRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-24797625981256956592009-04-04T05:51:00.000-07:002009-04-06T02:02:27.273-07:00Build Endurance! Build Schools! I am a Hero! IamNinoy!A month and a half ago my brothers (Rapa and Jim) and I were discussing how we can further the spirit of the IamNinoy Campaign. IamNinoy aims to foster and nurture a new breed of heroes among the youth through simple selfless acts. Heroes in a big way or in a small way but more importantly in their own new way. <br /><br />Together with my friends, Jake de Guzman and Drew Arellano, we brainstormed an idea to turn runners into “heroes”. And with the help of my wife Mayi and our other good friend Jaymie (TBR), LITERALLY A LOT OF HELP, we formally launched during the Condura Skyway run. <br /><br />This is the IamNinoy Runners.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBXmcJcGe8XxIUwem_etopg38B6eYNhRWPa0hrXoCQxqyPlJ-NBlZrcoLADbzaQQAqtx7nBL4-00CAMWmDFYDI4t8PwOW2J16Tw0bqCed6OoRU1lApdYV2p76wu3XC69tmnnbkA1t-ebk/s1600-h/iamninoy_runner_logobig.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 330px; height: 209px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBXmcJcGe8XxIUwem_etopg38B6eYNhRWPa0hrXoCQxqyPlJ-NBlZrcoLADbzaQQAqtx7nBL4-00CAMWmDFYDI4t8PwOW2J16Tw0bqCed6OoRU1lApdYV2p76wu3XC69tmnnbkA1t-ebk/s400/iamninoy_runner_logobig.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321499590483672482" /></a><br /><br />Who are we?<br /><br />“iamninoy Runners” is a group of professional and amateur runners affiliated with the iamninoy movement. Coming from all walks of life, iamninoy Runners field participants to regular running events—and occasionally mount races of their own—to raise funds for a worthy cause.<br /><br />Slide Show Photos courtesy of <a href="http://benmchan.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight:bold;">PHOTOVENDO</span></a><br /><div><embed src="http://widget-0b.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=bb&il=1&channel=1441151880782099211&site=widget-0b.slide.com" style="width:400px;height:320px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:400px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782099211&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-0b.slide.com/p1/1441151880782099211/bb_t024_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782099211&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-0b.slide.com/p2/1441151880782099211/bb_t024_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide2.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=fl&id=1441151880782099211&map=F" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-0b.slide.com/p4/1441151880782099211/bb_t024_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide42.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a></div></div><br />Why do we run?<br /><br /><a href="http://57-75.org/home/"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8XYSXVS-d4_NLYL_ZL2mTET86hNrfVlId-CtKjuk7WHlVsLC1TN5Dl2IJ3JYHGzFe4y6eobqiVsoV0OEwlNO-FgMOQkP62cYet9hLAbspiZeA04L7ZmFYkVLUc9lCfR7wMnkY7Ob30E/s1600-h/57-75org.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 166px; height: 62px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy8XYSXVS-d4_NLYL_ZL2mTET86hNrfVlId-CtKjuk7WHlVsLC1TN5Dl2IJ3JYHGzFe4y6eobqiVsoV0OEwlNO-FgMOQkP62cYet9hLAbspiZeA04L7ZmFYkVLUc9lCfR7wMnkY7Ob30E/s320/57-75org.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320819632037570434" /></a></a>iamninoy Runners want to help address the deterioration of the Philippines’ educational system. For this purpose, the group has aligned with the 57-75 Movement, a private-sector-led initiative that aims to reverse the education crisis through focused interventions and school-community action, toward system-wide performance improvements.<br /><br />How do we help?<br /><br />iamninoy Runners seek out institutions and individuals who can sponsor their participation in races. These sponsors commit funds, which are in turn donated to pilot projects of the 57-75 Movement. All pledges and donations will be posted on this site.<br /><br />Do we accept new members?<br /><br />Definitely. Joining iamninoy Runners is simple: register through this site, and pay a one-time fee of P500 as your investment in the cause. In exchange, we will gift you with an exclusive iamninoy Runners shirt, our official uniform/jersey for all running events. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQxRkPshH5UBVGTuIBfdoI8HL7qRVCUzTLeVAaP-YA1NjE9qF1RknvxjRimStifhiQPhsw1Gsd4SUW5_5G1Ny2LuFhZpk2Lo7hludk-vEJys80dfTa3gMG6nCJyJ489c9hbcLo2a1Jzo/s1600-h/iamninoy_runners_tshirt.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 223px; height: 148px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQxRkPshH5UBVGTuIBfdoI8HL7qRVCUzTLeVAaP-YA1NjE9qF1RknvxjRimStifhiQPhsw1Gsd4SUW5_5G1Ny2LuFhZpk2Lo7hludk-vEJys80dfTa3gMG6nCJyJ489c9hbcLo2a1Jzo/s400/iamninoy_runners_tshirt.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320825420465606194" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.iamninoy.com"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Join us!!! Be a Hero!!!</span></a>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-44336271173318821832009-03-27T02:01:00.000-07:002009-03-29T19:12:59.857-07:00Racing to Update My PostsIt's been a while since my last post. Much has happened since. So this is my attempt to recap my continuing roller-coaster ride. <br /><br />1. I did find a quick fix. And its effect or the relief it brought disappeared just as quick. Bwahahahaha. <br /><br />2. I surrendered to the fact that there maybe no other solution to my hamstring problems except for plain old rest. But after a week, I got tired of resting (what a contradiction!) and was back on the road. I had a week of pain free short runs. Hooorayyyy!!! But when I started to push my speed a bit...I'm pushed back to the reality. Oh well.<br /><br />3. I found a new freind in "Makisig". Makisig is my new spin bike which I got through my good friend Jake de Guzman. Jake also happens to be the one who introduced me to the punishing and fulfilling world of triathlon. Thanks Jake for both! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SX4UNDmnGd9KM5mJ3pDaP5FRKENqOUM7KfB6YWcyu3lPDdbUYpILAnW7KvmIZJSZqZvvSprrd_1mVD8oX0kXy405hS1Vu_Ka0ZXMThunxvIHsvHW526nKOwweC00OrRokpTOwQVFLAo/s1600-h/makisig.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SX4UNDmnGd9KM5mJ3pDaP5FRKENqOUM7KfB6YWcyu3lPDdbUYpILAnW7KvmIZJSZqZvvSprrd_1mVD8oX0kXy405hS1Vu_Ka0ZXMThunxvIHsvHW526nKOwweC00OrRokpTOwQVFLAo/s320/makisig.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318446239109455298" /></a><br /><br />Spinning has been a good, pain-free alternative workout. Great also as a recovery workout in between long runs and intervals. <br /><br />4. Having been too bothered by my hamstrings, I barely even noticed that I've completely recovered from my heel spurs. I think, no, I believe it was all the stretching and weights that did it. So, I'm planning to do the same for my hamstrings. I guess there really are no shortcuts. What am I talking about? I knew that! Tigas ulo lang. Hay naku.<br /><br />5. I was "re-introduced" by my friend Drew Arellano to NIKE. I've had bad experiences with NIKE shoes (personal horror stories) and as a result have been loyal to other brands such as Mizuno, Adidas, and New Balance. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_v87SxNPBCJEnHOQ3uooFqH0rkJZ8EdYdcMBfeIdT4IDfj0vLCOT1HiBp7u3gKsa4MTLxZ9mw2n3yJwjzTTsogLcbgDJF-GjutJlTx5yDpdO8qotIZ6tTIq2LAa10fgqHgQWNsoz0U0s/s1600-h/shoes.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_v87SxNPBCJEnHOQ3uooFqH0rkJZ8EdYdcMBfeIdT4IDfj0vLCOT1HiBp7u3gKsa4MTLxZ9mw2n3yJwjzTTsogLcbgDJF-GjutJlTx5yDpdO8qotIZ6tTIq2LAa10fgqHgQWNsoz0U0s/s400/shoes.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318446734672389842" /></a><br /><br />Drew convinced me to try a particular pair from Nike -- the Zoom Start, a light-weight cushoning shoe. Don't know what compelled me to buy. Perhaps its Drew's salesmanship. Hahaha. I ran with it, OUT-OF-THE-BOX, for 20K and have to admit that I was impressed. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WnrW6d6euYYUGnPVyawvQ6qynvlrkwvSlR-hWUIWgX5Py8d1r8IPprYFTZVgsYPCplgiN2_kpSNQNlIi13rgxkoqFmaMkbpp6yR8ob60vizmk31voxWa5Ix4-GyvMVwfER3kpvnVGLg/s1600-h/diego.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 307px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WnrW6d6euYYUGnPVyawvQ6qynvlrkwvSlR-hWUIWgX5Py8d1r8IPprYFTZVgsYPCplgiN2_kpSNQNlIi13rgxkoqFmaMkbpp6yR8ob60vizmk31voxWa5Ix4-GyvMVwfER3kpvnVGLg/s400/diego.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318447164580975298" /></a><br /><br />The shoe had a nice, snug, comfortable fit and provided a light and soft ride throughout the long run. No blisters, chafing, dead toe nails, and pain in my feet and knees. Good shoe. Thanks Drew!!!<br /><br />6. I also did three weeks of long run routines (15 to 20 K) to prepare for the 21K Condura Skyway run. Have had good and bad runs but can say that more have leaned towards the good. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXVRZiMwMI0MsaMQWHF2BrragqXo3auyQxmOHjUFf3jscA3s_QSNyE9w5i6pC8VxT8YnJLCP_ZkRcXYHoIDDqgQ_fXZpwbk6VOttVN0THy6tdg78eDyXbIFH6YhlZVqO4tESIc-5oZNs/s1600-h/cundurajam"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXVRZiMwMI0MsaMQWHF2BrragqXo3auyQxmOHjUFf3jscA3s_QSNyE9w5i6pC8VxT8YnJLCP_ZkRcXYHoIDDqgQ_fXZpwbk6VOttVN0THy6tdg78eDyXbIFH6YhlZVqO4tESIc-5oZNs/s320/cundurajam" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317804423253289202" /></a><br />Was relatively pain free nearing race day and have had an average time of 2hrs10. Good enough for me as long as I don't get hurt. But race day turned out to be a BAD run day! I think I ran faster than I should on the 1st half of the race. I clocked 51 mins on the first 10k and felt sudden intense shooting pain in my hamstrings past the 11th. From there, I walked and ran, and walked and jogged my way to the finish line. I was in pain but I was still HAPPY. My time, 2hrs25. Ok na din. <br /><br />Photo courtesy of Rapa Lopa<br /><br />7. Also during the Condura, together with 46 other runners, we launched the IamNinoy Runners Movement. I so happy and blessed to have had a chance to meet, run, and band together with a group of such selfless people. Thanks for joining our cause everyone.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaaxioAmM_pd3WAwvHPnf5WLP7O_wz2DRqarLYCByb0KO7kmA04SlULfKakkreDrekykFMYmPGQWqmp7sDQhNuV4aRe2KhWfZg4YjEnRraovn1iBhXaqpJUDHAKMpBsNsbVN9qdckCM30/s1600-h/jaymiepic"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaaxioAmM_pd3WAwvHPnf5WLP7O_wz2DRqarLYCByb0KO7kmA04SlULfKakkreDrekykFMYmPGQWqmp7sDQhNuV4aRe2KhWfZg4YjEnRraovn1iBhXaqpJUDHAKMpBsNsbVN9qdckCM30/s400/jaymiepic" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317806168885255794" /></a><br /><br />Photo courtesy of <a href="http://thebullrunner.com/">theBullrunner</a><br /><br />More about, IamNinoy Runners in my next post.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-22686167469500510042009-02-02T04:46:00.000-08:002009-02-02T04:47:16.082-08:00Looking for a Quick FixLast week, I tried to do some recovery runs to ease myself back to my usual training routine. I strained my hamstrings quite bad in the Happy Run and I wanted to quickly recuperate and start my training with Coach Joar. <br /><br />On my first run, I just wanted to do an easy, 30-minute run. I started with a slow jog and immediately experienced some stiffness in my right hamstring. I thought, “Oh no!” But after about a kilometer into my run, my legs started to loosen up and the discomfort disappeared. As usual, impatience crept in and I started picking up my pace. In the end, my planned slow easy run became a 28-minute 5.5 km rolling hills run. And naturally, I felt the effects the following day. Payback! <br /><br />So, I rested a day and tried to do a more controlled run on a treadmill. I figured, on a treadmill, I can watch over my speed and ensure that keep a steadier pace. Of course, boredom set in and I started messing with the speed of the treadmill turning my supposed easy run into an interval workout. Bad idea! After the 2nd interval, my hamstrings started to hurt that I could not regulate my stride. I decided to stop after 20 minutes and just give more time to stretch. But my hamstrings hurt so bad that I couldn’t even stretch. I felt pain and discomfort even as I sat while driving. That afternoon, I went to see Dr. George. He told me my hamstrings were so tight and he asked the therapists to do METS on me to align my pelvis and do release massage on my hamstrings. I walked out of the clinic relieved and pain free. I decided, I’ll rest over the weekend to give myself more time to recover. <br /><br />Today, 4 days later, I decided to do a test run. And although the pain was not as intense, the stiffness was still there and at certain points in my run was shooting down to my shin. I could not shake it off. <br /><br />This persistent hamstring problem is really irritating. I feel it’s impeding my progress and I’d give anything for a quick fix. HELP!!!TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-19469043498682203632009-01-26T01:04:00.000-08:002009-01-28T00:01:26.716-08:00The Happy RunnerYesterday, I had a great time participating in <a href="http://www.thehappyrun.com/">Drew Arellano’s Happy Run</a>.<br /><br />There’s nothing like running in a perfectly organized race. Congrats to Drew, <a href="http://runrio.com/">Coach Rio</a> and their team.<br /><br />It was a great feeling being back in a race. The mixed feelings of anxiety and excitement give me such a high. It was nice to see old friends and meet new ones. I was also pleasantly surprised to see so many people running nowadays. I've also noticed that people perform at higher level and that there are more quality runners than before.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8xKeKJoobQ2vOOndKaDaOuJy2pPgU4EV5_fdynzPfqBhh4dAxYNwOkXeKfLZS-OLjIRT22EplDiDDBzo6ZyyAk_e06efuev5EOT-7xllJes9sEV47aHMARYlTGXIZY1voKjNl2xgPTo/s1600-h/IMG_0616.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm8xKeKJoobQ2vOOndKaDaOuJy2pPgU4EV5_fdynzPfqBhh4dAxYNwOkXeKfLZS-OLjIRT22EplDiDDBzo6ZyyAk_e06efuev5EOT-7xllJes9sEV47aHMARYlTGXIZY1voKjNl2xgPTo/s400/IMG_0616.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295784278968704226" /></a><br />Picture courtesy of <a href="http://www.thebullrunner.com/">theBullrunner</a><br /><br />I was extremely happy with my 15K time (1:30:46). It was a good comfortable run. And although it’s far from my old personal best, it’s what I can do now and I’m happy with it. :)<br /><br />I also found myself running with a different race attitude. Before, I’d mark people throughout the race, do my best to out run them and move on to my next target. Yesterday, I chose people and used them as pace partners (especially on climbs). This way is definitely more fun!!!<br /><br />I was especially proud to see my wife, <a href="http://nuttythoughts.blogspot.com/">Mayi</a>, toughing out her ankle injury and still able clock in a good time. I usually pace her during long runs so I was worried about her running alone. Plus I also knew she was running injured. Seeing her in good form, going uphill on McKinley Hill, brought a smile to my face. Great job Mayi!!!<br /><br />One bummer though were my hamstrings. They really hurt!!! They hurt during the race and was rather intense when I got home. But after a massage and a dose of a muscle relaxant plus an anti-inflammatory, I felt better. Not ok, but better. <br /><br />Still, all things considered, I’d have to say Sunday's race was worth sacrificing Saturday night drinks. Hahahaha.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-10222804849794830492009-01-13T19:34:00.000-08:002009-01-14T17:41:50.859-08:00Happy Run : )Calling all my runner friends!!! Mark this date -- Jan 25, 2009 -- Sunday!!! I know you're going to run anyway that weekend. Either it's your routine run or you're just trying to sweat off the alcohol from the previous night. So why not run for a good cause?! Join Drew Arellano's Happy Run. Register at ROX at Bonifacio High Street or get more details at the <a href="http://www.thehappyrun.com/">HappyRun website</a>. <br /><br />Tara!!! Takbo na kahit pilay pilay pa!!! Hahahaha<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHW3Uq7twEqLx5jPJpNGgHi_D7CIit5hmF2yRVGIQmFAXcKAMgz4M6WH4upQl6BAj7i17vdyy6WtTnAH7ATyW4zV4BzczDbYDu5w45DANQUbgk_y4JG1DLaHrg-NWvnh3KYJrPkM1Smc/s1600-h/happyrun.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 249px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHW3Uq7twEqLx5jPJpNGgHi_D7CIit5hmF2yRVGIQmFAXcKAMgz4M6WH4upQl6BAj7i17vdyy6WtTnAH7ATyW4zV4BzczDbYDu5w45DANQUbgk_y4JG1DLaHrg-NWvnh3KYJrPkM1Smc/s320/happyrun.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291002435470884594" /></a>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-51148692661564386312009-01-12T22:38:00.000-08:002009-01-12T22:40:27.876-08:00What Excuse Could You Possibly Have?<embed src="http://godtube.com/flvplayer.swf" FlashVars="viewkey=8cf08faca5dd9ea45513" wmode="transparent" quality="high" width="330" height="270" name="godtube" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="sameDomain" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" /></embed>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-42480922045682702008-12-07T23:31:00.000-08:002008-12-07T23:36:24.318-08:00My Proudest 21 K<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNKtVEVe7T57YgDHrvlzi1FynBtxDEA3Nmrcgf25h3GLZAsA-auRqodv-sx4VeKIA1QuvZp5USpt7z8OxUBj8ZXv0QglXmEDtZb77EXAwTIMX5l1jE2TrYdOJu7oWfvW8Vr7-u0flsj8/s1600-h/jamike.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 222px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNKtVEVe7T57YgDHrvlzi1FynBtxDEA3Nmrcgf25h3GLZAsA-auRqodv-sx4VeKIA1QuvZp5USpt7z8OxUBj8ZXv0QglXmEDtZb77EXAwTIMX5l1jE2TrYdOJu7oWfvW8Vr7-u0flsj8/s320/jamike.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277318971190754738" /></a><br /><br />Of all the 21Ks I’ve ran, last Saturday’s run was extra special. <br /><br />Last Saturday, I paced my wife Mayi through her first 21K!!! We ran a comfortable and steady pace throughout with only one 3 to 5 minute stop to do a quick banyo break and refill our hydration packs (the obvious setback having no water stations on route). We clocked in at 2-hours 35 mins. Not bad at all for her first time running that distance.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbaWbwR5c4o3xYwMKSuuys0EE0lgRxvNeLJNT4ne5MB_ZlEsozkAT5G1PQLAm3oZ1g-9vgk5LsVi0OYwUAZ3WG1rNlfgaD7uNGx_hoQk7KFVCx_m8KpFerFNbbUeK2X979CL5mMMGxxU/s1600-h/mayi.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 235px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUbaWbwR5c4o3xYwMKSuuys0EE0lgRxvNeLJNT4ne5MB_ZlEsozkAT5G1PQLAm3oZ1g-9vgk5LsVi0OYwUAZ3WG1rNlfgaD7uNGx_hoQk7KFVCx_m8KpFerFNbbUeK2X979CL5mMMGxxU/s320/mayi.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277319214745205442" /></a><br />I’m really so proud of her. To think I couldn’t even convince her to run before on the road. She ran really well and performed better and more consistently compared to her first time running 10K. <br /><br />Way to go Mayi!!! Congrats!!!TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-63092311732579079152008-11-27T21:57:00.001-08:002008-12-07T23:31:38.892-08:00The True Measure of Fitness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Z8YfwooxpC2eCJRq0cGnPsl7oVzM049X9EgHXXVm8r4jhoBJTqJLnBlUwpkgGY-6vZTcVPpDQhS7kI_BeDroV5NIxdchxRKCrbaE7TUvC3hsxxsLn2PBOhFQUeCbkBso8Uqg2R2SfuU/s1600-h/jamike1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 234px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Z8YfwooxpC2eCJRq0cGnPsl7oVzM049X9EgHXXVm8r4jhoBJTqJLnBlUwpkgGY-6vZTcVPpDQhS7kI_BeDroV5NIxdchxRKCrbaE7TUvC3hsxxsLn2PBOhFQUeCbkBso8Uqg2R2SfuU/s320/jamike1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277318553218029602" /></a><br />It’s been a while since I last posted. In fact, I’ve past the one-year anniversary of my injury. A lot of things have happened in my road to recovery. I think it’s safe to say that my training has been met with challenges left and right. And although I knew it wasn’t going to be easy and that I was going to be a rollercoaster ride, I set a goal, bound by time and performance levels. <br /><br />I said to myself that since my setback happened just before my 21K race last November, I should be able to run that same distance and clocking the same time as well. That then would be a perfect crown to my fitness goal. <br /><br />But in my effort to do just that, I found myself suffering injuries left and right. I’m able to run the same distances with relative ease. But when I push my training to improve my time, BANG!, the injuries appear. Now on and off, I nurse hamstring strains and heel spurs. <br /><br />I know my shortcomings. I know I have to be more religious with my strength/weight training and my stretching. I know I was taking short cuts to achieve my November goals. Now I’m suffering the consequences. <br /><br />Now, I’ve shifted my mindset and have adjusted my goals. My focus now is to constantly work on improving my distance and stamina without getting injured. And when I know my body is ready, I will work on speed. <br /><br />After all, fitness isn’t only measured through speed and distance but more importantly with the health of the athlete. ☺TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-78172888803224438762008-06-07T00:27:00.000-07:002008-06-07T01:28:27.598-07:00Just Like The MoviesI’ve just returned from my trip to the US and Canada with my family. And as I promised Joar, my running coach, I squeezed in training runs even during my vacation. <br /><br />Actually, I dreamed about running abroad (outside Manila and my usual routes) ever since being deprived of my opportunity to run in Melbourne. So I packed my running gear with me and took every chance I got to do my runs.<br /><br />My first workouts were in Disneyland Hotel’s gym. This was nothing new to me as I did this the last time we were there in 2005. The gym still looks the same but noticeably equipped with new Cardio machines. More than what I can say for my gym in Manila. Hahaha. These workouts were fairly boring which I tried to make more interesting by running intervals at higher speeds and intensities.<br /><br />From Los Angeles, we flew to Vancouver, Canada to board our ship for our Alaskan cruise. The cruise ship was a moving hotel and more. It literally had everything including a fully equipped fitness center on the very top which even offered pilates, yoga, and spin classes. Here, my runs were more interesting. I had to settle for the treadmills though as running open air on the deck was just too cold. The treadmills were situated facing the front of the ship, which offered a spectacular view of the ocean, the endless horizon, and at certain points mountains and icy glaciers.<br /> <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Gq0JihpVkWwOoxRNgShHAPCqndMPZbP2ceEoMVxdTptNfdo5Z_37Xu2CJl7T0jno1e1vY74eIw24EzK89X19bcHUlVhyEI1WXbCGxBp-azvhqvB5jdXDVBvhuoJ1TU3v_3NvFm9D8iE/s1600-h/alaska.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Gq0JihpVkWwOoxRNgShHAPCqndMPZbP2ceEoMVxdTptNfdo5Z_37Xu2CJl7T0jno1e1vY74eIw24EzK89X19bcHUlVhyEI1WXbCGxBp-azvhqvB5jdXDVBvhuoJ1TU3v_3NvFm9D8iE/s320/alaska.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209042037780923058" /></a><br />On one instance, while I was on the bike, Mayi and the person next to her on the treadmill saw an Orca (Killer Whale) breach. Lucky lucky. Running on the ships treadmills though were equally interesting. It didn’t matter if you were just running flats, the bobbing ship constantly offered an inconsistent step and stride. It was like simulating a rolling hills run where you always had to mind your balance. Like I said, it was interesting and funny but quite challenging.<br /><br />When our cruise ended, we docked back in Vancouver and stayed one more week with Whitey, my brother, in his house. He lived in a setting ideal for training. The sun sets at 9:30 pm and rises at 5:30 am, which gives you no excuse for not having time to exercise. His neighborhood is situated near a bike/run trail on a dike with a full view of the ocean and snow capped mountains on one side and pretty houses on the other. <br /><br /><div><embed src="http://widget-a0.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=un&il=1&channel=1441151880775078816&site=widget-a0.slide.com" style="width:426px;height:320px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:426px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=un&at=fl&id=1441151880775078816&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-a0.slide.com/p1/1441151880775078816/un_t016_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=un&at=fl&id=1441151880775078816&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-a0.slide.com/p2/1441151880775078816/un_t016_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide2.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=un&at=fl&id=1441151880775078816&map=F" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-a0.slide.com/p4/1441151880775078816/un_t016_v000_s0fl_f00/images/xslide42.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a></div></div><br /><br />While running, you feel a constant cool breeze and scents of pine and eucalyptus. Not to mention the occasional smell of steaks grilling on open barbecues of houses along the dike. You also come across bikers and runners throughout who greet and smile at you. Plus a bonus of seeing nesting eagles feeding their young. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dQMd7cJSbbD4bWMP-QHSEFGDk9CNaynWV-wIlE3hAgQ-SqsqO8gRScBy_mT4aLG7tEsrIcIu6QDhjY79s04yWGeKm2jz69AEaVbu-dQ7I2tH347aF9Bz819Q28dfyt3BEfxNYLRHp20/s1600-h/eagle.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dQMd7cJSbbD4bWMP-QHSEFGDk9CNaynWV-wIlE3hAgQ-SqsqO8gRScBy_mT4aLG7tEsrIcIu6QDhjY79s04yWGeKm2jz69AEaVbu-dQ7I2tH347aF9Bz819Q28dfyt3BEfxNYLRHp20/s320/eagle.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209046491418916066" /></a><br />On the very end of the trail, you end up in a park in a place called Steveston, a quaint community by the docks. There you'll see people just lying around doing their own thing from picnicking to Parasailing. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2UrHFWAGu8wvXW0GDuA7X6emNQBvetfdrMiWeQM6Ny-D2oJlTpO4MTl1LBlDoG9_7xnqIhQOoNgCo0TlfOukQWszB6QO8ueenKi_LemsLKLCvO56V5FzhgvJ1wdVOCXbE-NYjSNTYe4/s1600-h/steve.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz2UrHFWAGu8wvXW0GDuA7X6emNQBvetfdrMiWeQM6Ny-D2oJlTpO4MTl1LBlDoG9_7xnqIhQOoNgCo0TlfOukQWszB6QO8ueenKi_LemsLKLCvO56V5FzhgvJ1wdVOCXbE-NYjSNTYe4/s320/steve.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209050919377145026" /></a><br />I tell you, I just breezed through my 10-11 km runs. It was runners’ heaven…exactly what you see in the movies.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-89928142346271320152008-04-29T18:40:00.000-07:002008-04-29T18:49:19.706-07:00The Hard Truth ContinuedI just finished a training run this morning and am quite tired. During my recovery, a new realization popped into my mind and all I could say was..."Oh right, SHIT!!!"<br /><br />So here it is. The latest addition to my list of Hard Realities I have to deal with.<br /><br />Reality # 7. I've noted that I've been more focused on training for my run. And having come to realize the list of Hard Truths related to this, it occurred to me that I'll have to go through the same challenges and ordeal training for swimming and biking.<br /><br />I tell you, the hits keep coming.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-25490805161927977602008-04-29T01:28:00.000-07:002008-04-29T05:24:27.622-07:00The Hard TruthFrom my training sessions, I know my stride and technique has greatly improved but I also went face to face with some hard realities that I now know I have to deal with and work on. <br /><br />Reality # 1. My stamina is shut and I’m a long, long, loooooooooooooong way from my fitness level before my injury.<br /><br />Reality # 2. There is no short cut for building stamina. I knew this before, and I’m being reintroduced to it again. Shit!!!<br /><br />Reality # 3. My goals should be refocused (in other words realistic. Hahahaha)<br />If I dare run races, I should not expect to clock in a good time. <br /><br />Reality # 4. There is no escaping strength training. I know I’ll never get back if I keep putting off my weight training.<br /><br />Reality # 5. No more excuses. I’m not injured anymore. I can train as hard as I need to train. It’s all up to me!!! Yikes<br /><br />And last and maybe most important of all.<br /><br />Reality # 6. I will have to do all of the above handicapped with the obvious reality that I will not give up my social life. To be more specific,...drinking and late night gimmicks with family and friends. Oh well, life goes on and the struggle continues.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-23533635641148869302008-04-10T20:52:00.001-07:002008-04-10T20:52:26.777-07:00All ClearLike a good soldier and patient, I went to see George again for a check up last week, April 3, 2008. We agreed last Feb 28, that I should go back after a month so he can check my progress once more.<br /><br />Finally, after months of rehab, George gave me my clearance, ahead of schedule. YAHOOOOOOOOO!!!! This means I can do anything I want including badminton. <br />It felt great! I was like last day of class….GRADUATION at last.<br /><br />George reminded me though to continue my weight/strength training in the gym. He noticed that I was slacking with that part of my therapy and he was correct. I was going once a week instead of the recommended three times a week. It showed and honestly, I felt it too. My legs and knees would feel weak during more intense workouts and I would feel occasional pain and strain in my quads, hamstrings and knee. So I promised myself to be more disciplined and diligent on this aspect. I don’t want to be stupid and regret the consequences of my negligence and laziness. NO MORE DELAYS!!!TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-70736585900928253792008-04-10T20:50:00.000-07:002008-04-10T20:55:02.904-07:00The Kind of Pain I’m Used ToSince having been allowed by George last month to proceed with training, I’ve enlisted the services of a running coach to put some structure on that particular discipline. So since March 5, 2008, I’ve included running drills and interval training to my tempo and long runs. <br /><br />Having someone pushing you and challenging you does bring you to a higher level of training. Plus I get the benefits of an experienced and accomplished runner correcting my stride and my technique. I must admit that it’s quite exhausting at times but it’s the kind of pain I’m used to and the kind of pain I like. Pain is good when you know you’ve accomplished something or you’ve overcome a challenge.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-48849309105605718322008-03-02T22:29:00.001-08:002008-03-12T02:45:37.512-07:00Big LeapLast week, I suddenly felt that stinging pain again on the side of my knee. I haven’t felt this in a long time and it annoyed me that it’s there again and that it came when I had toned down my workouts for fear that I might be pushing too hard. You can just imagine how pissed I was that this happened again.<br /><br />I’ve decided that the only way to rid myself of these fears and get some piece of mind was to see Dr. George and ask him my questions directly. So, I went last Feb 26, 2008 to his clinic and had myself examined. George went through the whole routine and told me that my knee is doing really well and that I can start running and biking outdoors already. I was so shocked that it took a while for me to remember the list of things I wanted to ask him. Quickly I threw all my questions and here is essentially a summary of his answers.<br /><br />1. I can run and bike outdoors at my own pace at any distance. <br />2. More than watching out for a distinct pain, I supposed to watch out for swelling in my knee. If this happens, I should just lessen my intensity and the distance I cover and apply ice on my knee.<br />3. The stinging pain I felt on my knee was still connected to my hamstring which according to George was where he got the ligament to fix my injury<br />4. Strength training is very important<br />5. Equally important, I can start stretching already. Any stretch (without resistance) is OK<br />6. I can’t swim especially where I have to use my legs. <br />7. If everything OK, I may be back training for Triathlons in a month.<br /><br />I was so happy and excited as I told Mayi the news. The following day, I put on my gear and ran my first 10 k on the road. It felt great. The funny part was that it was my right knee that hurt and felt some strain. Perhaps I was unconsciously compensating for my left knee or maybe it became a little weak as much of my strength training was focused on my injured knee. But all in all it was fantastic and it’s nice knowing that I’m doing this with George’s GO signal.<br /><br />Since then, my run and bike workouts are more regular and I've also doubled my strength training routines.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-88157820627239797382008-03-02T22:28:00.000-08:002008-03-02T22:29:08.936-08:00Running ScaredIt has dawned on me that while I continue to try to keep my workouts and progress on schedule by keeping my intensity level up, I also have a feeling that I am being pulled back by constant fears lingering in my head. Often, while running, biking, or even doing weights, I’ bombarded with questions in my mind of whether I’m doing the right thing or not. Questions like, “Am I going too fast or too slow?”, “Is my form OK?”, “Can I do More?”, “Can I start stretching already?”, etc. <br /><br />It’s hard enough working back into fitness. It just makes it worse dealing with these self-imposed issues in my head. <br /><br />• Footnote – This is a delayed post that should have been published weeks ago.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-21694444187590324012008-02-07T01:49:00.000-08:002008-02-07T01:50:23.832-08:00Throwing Caution to the WindSince Australia, my runs, on the treadmill, have been regular 30-35 minute routines. I’ve also experimented with changing my speed, which Dr. George allows anyway. My runs are always followed by a 30-minute stationary bike workout to further add to my strength training. This was actually how I regularly train before my injury, with far less intensity of course this time around. <br /><br />Since I got back from Australia a week and a half ago, I’ve been so busy trying to catch up with my office work and as a result have found it so difficult to find time to exercise. In fact, I’ve been only able to go the gym 3 times to do my strength training including my run and bike workouts. Today, I had a late morning meeting in my schedule so I had a tiny window where I felt I could squeeze in a run. The problem was, it was so tight that I had no time to travel to the gym and was only left with the alternative of running on the road, in the village. The debate went on again in my mind whether to go through with it or not. I knew there might be consequences but my desire to run was greater so I went ahead and did my first run on the road.<br /><br />I chose a relatively easy route. I ran a straight line a much as I can and tried to prevent any lateral steps. I also controlled my speed and my stride throughout the run but with great difficulty. The urge to go faster, run my normal stride, and attack the uphill slopes was always there especially when I became comfortable with my run around my 3rd minute. But common sense persevered this time around. At the end of it all, when I completed my route, I clocked a total of 37 minutes. I’m sure I didn’t cover a considerable distance given my speed but I felt really great. I had neither pain nor stiffness in my knee. I wasn’t tired at all but had a good workout just the same. <br /><br />Though it felt great to hit the road again, I don’t think I’m not going to do this regularly until I get George’s GO signal. I’m counting my blessings. I didn’t get injured. My knee didn’t hurt. And I was able to experience “runners high” again after a long, long time. <br /><br />For now, I can use this feeling to stimulate my boring runs on the treadmill. Hahahaha.TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1291943413556141260.post-28268635298184213182008-02-05T00:58:00.000-08:002008-02-18T23:26:24.996-08:00My Alternative WorkoutLet me begin by saying that this post is long overdue. I was supposed to post this while I was still in Australia but I was enjoying myself so much that it seemed foolish to waste my time posting my blog.<br /><br />Anyway, the last time I did write, I was debating whether I should run on the road (instead of the hotel gym) given the fact that Melbourne outdoors were really spectacular. Well, I decided to be more sensible as I didn’t want to risk any unnecessary injury by not following doctor’s orders. In addition, Mayi already felt terrible for accidentally leaving her running shoes so I decided to sympathize with her. Instead, we did long walks (7 to 10 kms a day). It was perfect as we got to see more of the sites and get our doze of daily exercise – two birds with one stone! <br /><br />Here are some snapshots taken from our walks. <br /><br /><br /><div><embed src="http://widget-b7.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=bb&il=1&channel=1657324662875547319&site=widget-b7.slide.com" style="width:400px;height:320px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:400px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=0&id=1657324662875547319&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-b7.slide.com/p1/1657324662875547319/bb_t016_v000_a000_f00/images/xslide1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=0&id=1657324662875547319&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-b7.slide.com/p2/1657324662875547319/bb_t016_v000_a000_f00/images/xslide2.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a></div></div>TRY-Athletehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13286448212099387969noreply@blogger.com1