Training in Montana

Hiked lots of miles the past few days of hunting, all at 8000 feet or higher elevation, so didn't lose much. I did miss my long run, but made up for it with 3 days of fun-filled 4-wheeler riding and "Elk looking". I can't call it hunting if I didn't fire my rifle. Next year.

Had a nice run today at lunch time. The weather turned cold, so it was 45 with 20 mph gusts when I ran. Gloves, hat, and my SGM long sleeve shirt were a good choice. Warmed up after a couple miles, and by the last 2 miles took the gloves off, and had the hat above my ears most of the run. Beautiful day, lots of gorgeous colors on leaves all around. Love this time of year. After warming up I noticed I was moving faster than expected, so I pushed it a bit. Felt really good.

AP: 8:18. Splits 9:17, 8:42, 8:01, 7:56, 7:23, 8:40 (cool down).

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/124293710

Had to have run about .75 miles during boot camp today. It was a good one - the kind where you can barely bring your arms up to your head to wash your hair. I plan on running tomorrow morning, probably in tights for the first time this year. So much fun, and so stylish.

5 miles from home. A bit chilly out with the wind gusting, but not too bad. I felt good today so pushed it a bit. A warm shower felt fantastic.

AP: 8:00. Splits: 9:00, 8:44, 7:30, 6:44, 7:22.

A cold 29 degrees this morning, but thankfully no wind at home. Hit a bit of a breeze on the run but not bad. Donned the tights and a fleece vest, plus a second set of gloves. I could use a thin jacket - should've bought a cheap one at the SGM expo. Next year.

I found a new 5 mile hills course for me. I normally head South from home when I run - okay - always head South, as that's the way I drive home. Today I headed North, or downhill. It's a rough dirt road for a couple miles then a paved very uphill course that loops back to my house. It was a good workout. Was in the 7s on the way down, but that took no effort as it's at least 400 foot drop over 2 miles. Didn't hook up the Garmin to the computer so not exactly sure. The climb back up was brutal with paces in the 10s for a good part of the way. There's a bit of flat and minor downhill over the next 2 miles, but not much. A steady climb and it was tough for me after yesterday's speedier times. Walked once but then made it home. I was slightly chilled for a couple hours. Might need to wear more clothes when the temps are high 20s/low 30s.

AP: 9:00 or so. Don't remember.

At Noon, hit the gym for 30 minutes of weights. Did pullups - 10, 5, 5. Some curls, tricep dips, triceps with weights, pushups, and planks front/side/side (without a clock).

Running uphill is hard. Running into the wind is harder. Running uphill into the wind just plain sucks. I didn't hit that until mile 5, but ran up and into wind the last 2.5. Ugh. Was very glad for the turnaround. Ran pretty hard on the way back but with it being downhill and with a wind at my back it wasn't too hard of an effort. Overall happy with my longest effort since the marathon.

AP: 8:53. Splits 9:21, 9:01, 9:42, 10:12, 8:54, 9:41, 9:04 (turn around), 7:58, 9:38 (?), 8:03, 7:34, 8:51, 7:54, 8:06.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/124991961