Hey bloggers! As I mentioned in the last post, practices have been pretty tough the past month or so. Not to say that I have been doing bad, quite the contrary, but recovery after them is of definite importance. Today I'm not working so I get to catch up on some of my writing. :) yeay!
Starting back in mid November I've was back to struggling with the strenuous track workouts of a 400m hurdler. The workouts are very long, build lactic acid quickly, and require a lot of heart to say the least. Since then though I've made ground breaking progress towards handling them much better. The past two weeks especially have been great and have caused me to learn more about mentally preparing for tough practices.
I've learned these great techniques in a few different places including church, my coach, my teammates and others around me, and my business too. I've learned that when you have to do something difficult it doesn't help to worry yourself about it especially if you HAVE to do it (like really challenging practices). Worrying about it and trying to avoid it isn't going to help me when my coach says "Ready, GO!" Its not something that will change so I have realized that I might as well put in all my effort to do the workouts and earn the benefit from them rather than being scared and happenstancedly (don't try to look that word up, haha) get some type of benefit from it.
It doesn't help to worry or fear for things that are inevitable. Most of the issues I had with my training last year were due to a lack of confidence in my own ability to physically do what was being asked of me. I am now believing that I can do the workouts coach has for me and that he wouldn't give me something just to watch me struggle and fail. He genuinely wants me to get better. Besides, he also reaps a benefit from me doing well when I get that sponsorship or prize money. That being said, I realized that he wants me to get better, EVEN THOUGH he doesn't always say it or express it in the smallest manner, lol. The first thing to do is accept the fact that yes, this will be tough. Secondly, you have to adjust your attitude toward your task and cast out any thoughts of doubt or fear regarding it. You have to think positive and be stronger even though you're hurting, sore, in pain, or whatever the case may be. The last thing to do is enjoy the challenge or with respect to religion thank God for the moment.
Training has been tough, but Im getting more out of it and I've allowed or forced my body to react positively to the pain and challenge of finishing workouts. Personally, I feel like I've made a huge leap toward my dreams and I will continue to keep this attitude and mindset. There are no limits. This is the life of...a champion!!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Importance of Care The Reward Thereof
Hey bloggers hope all is well and your Thanksgiving was filled with great food, good fellowship, and a lot of realizing how blessed you are. Thank You GOD! I know this post is much overdue, but please bear with me. Practice has been really working my body out and I've been completely exhausted the past few weeks straight. It doesn't help that now we have had several days where we can't get much work in on the track due to frigid temps (FL frigid, lol). Anyways, this post ties in with the last one, so I'll give you all a practice update after this post.
We last left off talking about the importance of actually getting your body worked on for everyday people and for athletes alike. Hopefully you enjoyed that one. This post is primarily going to be about the chiropractic care, and my awesome opportunity that I was able to take advantage.
Maybe you've heard good or bad things about chiropractors, but I'll give you a bit more information about my experiences with chiropractors that will hopefully give you insight to make a better informed decision about your own care. The first thing you need to know about chiropractors is that there are a few different types of care. There are everyday chiropractors that adjust your body and you continue to come back, then there are corrective care practitioners. I have experienced both, and they are similar, but there is a stark difference between them.
Regular chiropractors have the knowledge to relieve pressure in your joints, nerves, and align your bones if they are out of place, but the disconnect I've experienced is that they don't teach you about what is happening to your body. Maybe you don't care if the teach you anything, but I feel if Im paying my hard earned money to someone to "fix" an issues I have with my body I want to know why I need it, how it will help, length of time I should expect, and so forth. I have to be in the KNOW, you heard me! Not only to they just allow you to walk through their offices day in and out without explaining what is going on with your body, why it is or isn't helping, etc., but they don't make attempts to permenantly correct the issue either. I don't believe that if you start going to a chiropractor you will become dependent on them. If you go to the right ones you can get the care you need and train your body to correct itself.
My corrective care chiropractor has educated me on the main area of focus for a healthier body and ultimately, life. That thing is the spinal cord, which I'll talk about next. I get my hips, spine, and neck adjusted each week and do the exercises that have been helping to strengthen my bones and muscles around those bones in order to hold position after adjustments. What I get done each week (down from 3 times a wk) is an adjustment for my hips, which are out of alignment by less than 5 degrees. This actually used to cause a lot of tension in my low back and would often affect my hamstrings while running, and since I've started my care I haven't had nearly as much strain in those areas. Imagine running around a track with one leg a little longer than the other ok? lol. It takes it's toll after a while.
The next thing I get taken care of is my spinal cord. Every person has a spine and it is like a hollowed shell that protects your spinal cord. This cord is THE ONE thing, aside from your heart that keeps you living long and strong. It sends all the signals from the brain to the rest of your body including limbs and organs. Imagine what would happen if one of those nerves was pinched because your spine was out of alignment. Maybe this issue occurred in your lower back where the nerve that controls you kidney is housed. The bone on that particular nervewould be clamping on your nerve like a rubberband wrapped tightly around your finger. After a while you finger goes numb and it starts to turn colors due to lack of circulation right? The same thing happens with our nerves. That pinched nerve tries to tell the kidney to clean out the blood system when you eat some bad food, but since you aren't getting 100% power trhough that nerve the signal is blocked and the kidney doesn't get all the instructions. This can cause kidney failure or more damage in your body since it is unable to do its job.
That scenario could go for any of your other organs including the heart. I hope that you can see the importance of having your spine adjusted regularly. I would highly recommend you at least go check out a corrective care chiropractor and get the interim x-rays to find out the facts on your body. From there you can decide what to do.
We last left off talking about the importance of actually getting your body worked on for everyday people and for athletes alike. Hopefully you enjoyed that one. This post is primarily going to be about the chiropractic care, and my awesome opportunity that I was able to take advantage.
Maybe you've heard good or bad things about chiropractors, but I'll give you a bit more information about my experiences with chiropractors that will hopefully give you insight to make a better informed decision about your own care. The first thing you need to know about chiropractors is that there are a few different types of care. There are everyday chiropractors that adjust your body and you continue to come back, then there are corrective care practitioners. I have experienced both, and they are similar, but there is a stark difference between them.
Regular chiropractors have the knowledge to relieve pressure in your joints, nerves, and align your bones if they are out of place, but the disconnect I've experienced is that they don't teach you about what is happening to your body. Maybe you don't care if the teach you anything, but I feel if Im paying my hard earned money to someone to "fix" an issues I have with my body I want to know why I need it, how it will help, length of time I should expect, and so forth. I have to be in the KNOW, you heard me! Not only to they just allow you to walk through their offices day in and out without explaining what is going on with your body, why it is or isn't helping, etc., but they don't make attempts to permenantly correct the issue either. I don't believe that if you start going to a chiropractor you will become dependent on them. If you go to the right ones you can get the care you need and train your body to correct itself.
My corrective care chiropractor has educated me on the main area of focus for a healthier body and ultimately, life. That thing is the spinal cord, which I'll talk about next. I get my hips, spine, and neck adjusted each week and do the exercises that have been helping to strengthen my bones and muscles around those bones in order to hold position after adjustments. What I get done each week (down from 3 times a wk) is an adjustment for my hips, which are out of alignment by less than 5 degrees. This actually used to cause a lot of tension in my low back and would often affect my hamstrings while running, and since I've started my care I haven't had nearly as much strain in those areas. Imagine running around a track with one leg a little longer than the other ok? lol. It takes it's toll after a while.
The next thing I get taken care of is my spinal cord. Every person has a spine and it is like a hollowed shell that protects your spinal cord. This cord is THE ONE thing, aside from your heart that keeps you living long and strong. It sends all the signals from the brain to the rest of your body including limbs and organs. Imagine what would happen if one of those nerves was pinched because your spine was out of alignment. Maybe this issue occurred in your lower back where the nerve that controls you kidney is housed. The bone on that particular nervewould be clamping on your nerve like a rubberband wrapped tightly around your finger. After a while you finger goes numb and it starts to turn colors due to lack of circulation right? The same thing happens with our nerves. That pinched nerve tries to tell the kidney to clean out the blood system when you eat some bad food, but since you aren't getting 100% power trhough that nerve the signal is blocked and the kidney doesn't get all the instructions. This can cause kidney failure or more damage in your body since it is unable to do its job.
That scenario could go for any of your other organs including the heart. I hope that you can see the importance of having your spine adjusted regularly. I would highly recommend you at least go check out a corrective care chiropractor and get the interim x-rays to find out the facts on your body. From there you can decide what to do.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Importance of Care
That is one thing that will always resonnate within me: "Take Care of your body!!!" Something Coach reminds of at least once a week, but the occasional 3/4 times doesn't surprise anyone either, lol.
Hey bloggerz! Sorry for the delay in posting this one, but I've been under the gun to get a few things done. Well, I guess my own gun with a slow trigger and possibly rubber bullets. Ok, ok I was taking my time and just didn't feel like writing the past few weeks, even though this is something I am pretty eager to get out to you. There is just something about a tough day's work on the track that makes everything else seem so unimportant compared to the amount of sleep and recovery your body wants to slouch about in.
Back to the topic at hand. The quote above is from my coach reminding us to continue to take care of our body as athletes. Now you may be thinking that he is talking about eating right and drinking water and such, which he is, but not entirely. The main point he makes with that statement is to make sure we are getting our bodies "worked on" as we call it. This only means that we are making appointments to see any specialists that will aid in our recovery and allow us to keep our bodies in optimal shape from all the mileage (literal, lol) and strength and mental confidence we command of them.
For me this usually means that in a week I'll get an ice bath, a torturous deep tissue massage (hey don't give me that, there is no calming music and sounds of waterfalls in the background, lots of moments of pain comes from them), a epsom salt bath, maybe some accupuncture, an adjustment from the Chiro, icing my knees down several times a week, and stretching each night. It might sound like a lot, but the routine works for me and when Im consistent I usually have really good practices because my recovery is much better or faster.
Taking care of your body is no different for sports athletes than for regular everyday people. Perhaps you could take out a full ice bath and get away with that bruised ankle of yours. I probably wouldn't recommend a deep tissue to anyone who doesn't need it either, unless of course you're just curious, I would applaud you for trying one. These things are what helps our bodies recover and get back into working shape. Icing for example helps to numb the area of pain or inflamation so that when you have endured anywhere from 8-15 minutes and allow your body temp or restore itself blood will flow to the injured area more rapidly. This rapid blood flow creates new blood to come and repair damaged tissue and muscles which will speed up the healing process.
Epsom salt baths are usually done when you are extremely sore, but not bruised or muscles inflamed. The hot bath mixed with salt (to pull out toxins and overload the body with one of the electrolytes that it needs) will not only relax you, but allow your muscles to drain themselves of unwanted material through your pours as you sweat. It is similar to a detox, but not as inclusive. Usually you want to do hot baths or hot packs on affected areas prior to activities to help the stiff areas loosen up some or before bed for ultimate comfort. With epsom salt, I've noticed that my soreness lasts for much less than usual, I can be back running on a sore appendage sooner, and that my muscles have a chance to relax and loosen themselves which can help save you from a muscle pull. Of course you don't want to forget to drink LOTS of water while doing an epsom salt because if will dehydrate you and you will feel those affects the next day for sure.
Now Chiropractic care is something that I've heard several physical therapists and trainers look down upon. One reason is because a chiro has the knowledge or lack thereof to rearrange and adjust your bone structure. Now this is good if your spinal cord or low back or hips are out of alignment, but if you get worked on by someone who knows not what they're doing, they could really mess some stuff up. Honestly and personally though, I like Chiropractors. They not only adjust your body and any bones that have subluxation (misalignment), but also help in the corrective care area to release tension on your nerves. This technique is primarily focused on the spinal cord adjustments that allow nerve relief which can help your body function and operate better or optimally. I'll discuss more about Chiropractors in detail next post.
As you can see taking care of your body is pretty important. These things to take care of your body during aches, pains, and healthy living. Along with these things you can help to improve your health, while living long and strong! Some keys to this are drinking LOTS of water. Think of a lot of water and how much that is to you, then drink more than that, lol. Try to decrease or eliminate stress if possible, detoxify your body when necessary, get plenty of sleep, and eat healthy and supplement your food with those important vitamins and minerals that your body needs. This has been another service announcement from the life of...DK Research.truth. (Not a real website, lol)
Hey bloggerz! Sorry for the delay in posting this one, but I've been under the gun to get a few things done. Well, I guess my own gun with a slow trigger and possibly rubber bullets. Ok, ok I was taking my time and just didn't feel like writing the past few weeks, even though this is something I am pretty eager to get out to you. There is just something about a tough day's work on the track that makes everything else seem so unimportant compared to the amount of sleep and recovery your body wants to slouch about in.
Back to the topic at hand. The quote above is from my coach reminding us to continue to take care of our body as athletes. Now you may be thinking that he is talking about eating right and drinking water and such, which he is, but not entirely. The main point he makes with that statement is to make sure we are getting our bodies "worked on" as we call it. This only means that we are making appointments to see any specialists that will aid in our recovery and allow us to keep our bodies in optimal shape from all the mileage (literal, lol) and strength and mental confidence we command of them.
For me this usually means that in a week I'll get an ice bath, a torturous deep tissue massage (hey don't give me that, there is no calming music and sounds of waterfalls in the background, lots of moments of pain comes from them), a epsom salt bath, maybe some accupuncture, an adjustment from the Chiro, icing my knees down several times a week, and stretching each night. It might sound like a lot, but the routine works for me and when Im consistent I usually have really good practices because my recovery is much better or faster.
Taking care of your body is no different for sports athletes than for regular everyday people. Perhaps you could take out a full ice bath and get away with that bruised ankle of yours. I probably wouldn't recommend a deep tissue to anyone who doesn't need it either, unless of course you're just curious, I would applaud you for trying one. These things are what helps our bodies recover and get back into working shape. Icing for example helps to numb the area of pain or inflamation so that when you have endured anywhere from 8-15 minutes and allow your body temp or restore itself blood will flow to the injured area more rapidly. This rapid blood flow creates new blood to come and repair damaged tissue and muscles which will speed up the healing process.
Epsom salt baths are usually done when you are extremely sore, but not bruised or muscles inflamed. The hot bath mixed with salt (to pull out toxins and overload the body with one of the electrolytes that it needs) will not only relax you, but allow your muscles to drain themselves of unwanted material through your pours as you sweat. It is similar to a detox, but not as inclusive. Usually you want to do hot baths or hot packs on affected areas prior to activities to help the stiff areas loosen up some or before bed for ultimate comfort. With epsom salt, I've noticed that my soreness lasts for much less than usual, I can be back running on a sore appendage sooner, and that my muscles have a chance to relax and loosen themselves which can help save you from a muscle pull. Of course you don't want to forget to drink LOTS of water while doing an epsom salt because if will dehydrate you and you will feel those affects the next day for sure.
Now Chiropractic care is something that I've heard several physical therapists and trainers look down upon. One reason is because a chiro has the knowledge or lack thereof to rearrange and adjust your bone structure. Now this is good if your spinal cord or low back or hips are out of alignment, but if you get worked on by someone who knows not what they're doing, they could really mess some stuff up. Honestly and personally though, I like Chiropractors. They not only adjust your body and any bones that have subluxation (misalignment), but also help in the corrective care area to release tension on your nerves. This technique is primarily focused on the spinal cord adjustments that allow nerve relief which can help your body function and operate better or optimally. I'll discuss more about Chiropractors in detail next post.
As you can see taking care of your body is pretty important. These things to take care of your body during aches, pains, and healthy living. Along with these things you can help to improve your health, while living long and strong! Some keys to this are drinking LOTS of water. Think of a lot of water and how much that is to you, then drink more than that, lol. Try to decrease or eliminate stress if possible, detoxify your body when necessary, get plenty of sleep, and eat healthy and supplement your food with those important vitamins and minerals that your body needs. This has been another service announcement from the life of...DK Research.truth. (Not a real website, lol)
Monday, November 15, 2010
Training
Hey bloggers, I bet you've been wondering what I've been up to huh? Training of course! lol. Yes, we have been training for several weeks now and we just started our 5th week today. I can't believe that we are already 5 weeks into the season! I feel like we just started a week ago, well at least in my mind. My body would tell you that I've been running for near 2 months, lol. Our load and training work is challenging on our bodies at times, so we have to make sure we set aside time to get "worked on" as we call it. You know, I was talking to one of my co-workers at my part-time job and had mentioned that I had a chiro (Chiropractic) appointment that day. It was funny because he asked me why do YOU need a chiropractor with your young and in shape, vibrant (ok let me stop) self. Hahaha. I told him "naw, I mean I need it, but its not what you're thinking, its just maintenance". He looked at me funny and said you say that like ur a car or something. I thought that was funny, but partly true too. We athletes put a lot into our bodies to get a lot out of our bodies. We take care of our pains and aches by getting worked on by chiro's, physio's, therapists, etc. So in a way we could view our bodies as a car analogy and think of it as trying to get premium mileage with minimal wear and tear on the vessel. :)
Coach had hinted that pretty soon we would be heading back to the track and starting to run on it instead of around it. I just didn't know that today would be that day. All in all track workouts are usually more difficult because you have a level surface that gives feedback to your pounding footsteps and you usually don't have to worry about pot holes like you do in the grass. Here in FL we're blessed to train at a facility that doesn't have any track pot holes. With the surface, though, coach expects a lot more out of you and your body does too; its our office! I wish I could tell you that I got on the track for the first time this season for a workout and was pretty cool and did the workout on pace, but I can't. Truth is when we get to our office I can't do anything, BUT get excited, so needless to say the first 450 I did in today's workout was WAY too fast. I felt so good, my legs were light, the sun was warm on my skin, and there was only a very slight wind. I almost got lost and coach told us to slow it down a few times, hehehe.
So we're back on the track running and I hear that tomorrow we get to start some technical work...which means hurdles! I hope that between todays workout and tonight's rest I will be able to calm down enough not to get all stupid on the hurdles. With something as serious as technique, I have to slow it back and focus on the movements and angles. Besides, it just makes it so much easier when we bring all those great practices into competition. I mentioned above about getting worked on. I have a feeling that when I say this many civilians or normie's don't really know what it is, so I'll plan to have a post on it coming soon, maybe even tomorrow. Don't be alarmed by those nicknames, some characters in the track world have some funny names for those who don't train professionally, but it's not derogative, shoot I know plenty of track athletes that would love to not have to worry about what they're eating, how much sleep they get, and how many thousands of miles they have to travel just to force their bodies to adjust to the time and then perform a physical symphony on the track. Truth is, we wouldn't mind being in your shoes, but this is the path we chose, and you chose yours. :) More to come! This is...the life of a professional athlete!
Coach had hinted that pretty soon we would be heading back to the track and starting to run on it instead of around it. I just didn't know that today would be that day. All in all track workouts are usually more difficult because you have a level surface that gives feedback to your pounding footsteps and you usually don't have to worry about pot holes like you do in the grass. Here in FL we're blessed to train at a facility that doesn't have any track pot holes. With the surface, though, coach expects a lot more out of you and your body does too; its our office! I wish I could tell you that I got on the track for the first time this season for a workout and was pretty cool and did the workout on pace, but I can't. Truth is when we get to our office I can't do anything, BUT get excited, so needless to say the first 450 I did in today's workout was WAY too fast. I felt so good, my legs were light, the sun was warm on my skin, and there was only a very slight wind. I almost got lost and coach told us to slow it down a few times, hehehe.
So we're back on the track running and I hear that tomorrow we get to start some technical work...which means hurdles! I hope that between todays workout and tonight's rest I will be able to calm down enough not to get all stupid on the hurdles. With something as serious as technique, I have to slow it back and focus on the movements and angles. Besides, it just makes it so much easier when we bring all those great practices into competition. I mentioned above about getting worked on. I have a feeling that when I say this many civilians or normie's don't really know what it is, so I'll plan to have a post on it coming soon, maybe even tomorrow. Don't be alarmed by those nicknames, some characters in the track world have some funny names for those who don't train professionally, but it's not derogative, shoot I know plenty of track athletes that would love to not have to worry about what they're eating, how much sleep they get, and how many thousands of miles they have to travel just to force their bodies to adjust to the time and then perform a physical symphony on the track. Truth is, we wouldn't mind being in your shoes, but this is the path we chose, and you chose yours. :) More to come! This is...the life of a professional athlete!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Track Teams
Hey Bloggers, whats up! First off I would like to apologize for all those looking forward to a post for a few weeks now. I have been really active in taking my body and training, and all that is on top of my part-time work schedule in "the real world". lol. Basically, I've been busy, busy, busy working hard and preparing for the challenges to come.
Even though track isn't a team sport many training groups consider themselves a team due to the facts that you spend a lot of time getting to know each other, each member usually holds some accountability to the person next to them, and when encouragement is needed everyone is right there cheering you on. Since our season's end (August)we have gathered up several other athletes from around the world to add to our roster. I was surprised and pleased to see ALL of the faces from last year plus several new ones.We now have a pretty big training group, which brings both positives and negatives. Before I get into the new team break down lets back up to the first day of practice.
Of course as an athlete the hardest part of your training generally comes at the beginning when you have to put away the nutter bars, cookies, and ice cream only to burn off those delectable treats during conditioning. It usually takes anywhere between 2-3 weeks to get into decent shape where you are able to start working on important things. Our first day was something of a challenge, but went well. We started the week off with three sets of our regular endurance intervals, which was a bit gruesome, but no one fell out (success, lmbo). We normally don't start that intense, but gotta step up for the World Champ year. By the second day we were on to core exercises that KICK MY BUTT! I have never been a big muscle guy and for that I tend to struggle with exercises dealing with brute strength and body weight. That day I really had to put my goals for the season in front of my face and go after it. The next day I can say that with every step it felt like someone was playing bongos on my butt (Talk about Soreness!). It didn't get any better from there on our Wed plyo day (another challenge for ya boy). After struggling to get my limpy noodles to move like actual legs through all of our exercises I could rest, knowing that the next 2 days were down hill. Thursday and Friday were more sprint endurance and wouldn't have been so bad if my legs didn't feel like Egg Drop soup (you know what Im talking about). Nonetheless I didn't slack at all that week and was able to create the correct outcome in my mind and force the body to do it. Like coach says: I hear it, process it, and simply DO it.
I am so greatful for everything I went through last year because I feel that it made me much tougher and I realized how soft (for lack of better words) I was acting when faced with a challenge. I have broken out of that mindset and am much stronger mentally, which will make all the difference this year. It also helps when your teammates are there doing the drills and hurting just like you are, but pushing each other to finish, and finish well.
Overall we have, I think I counted 18, people in our group with 3 of them being new and 4 others who were back and forth about joining the team late last season. Pretty much have 6 new people starting the season of with us, and I feel that they are all good additions to the squad. They are 3 Ameican sprinters (2 male), 2 sprinters from Curacao, and 2 high hurdlers (American male, and female from UK). Everyone is positive, full of energy, and as most track runners are, quite the character. Despite the big group coach has assured me that I, being the only 400 runner, won't be neglected. That was a big issue for me when I was picking my training group and I believe he will honor his word. I know this was a long post, but now you have the very details of the season's start, so holla @cha boy and drop a comment. This is the life of...a Champion!
Even though track isn't a team sport many training groups consider themselves a team due to the facts that you spend a lot of time getting to know each other, each member usually holds some accountability to the person next to them, and when encouragement is needed everyone is right there cheering you on. Since our season's end (August)we have gathered up several other athletes from around the world to add to our roster. I was surprised and pleased to see ALL of the faces from last year plus several new ones.We now have a pretty big training group, which brings both positives and negatives. Before I get into the new team break down lets back up to the first day of practice.
Of course as an athlete the hardest part of your training generally comes at the beginning when you have to put away the nutter bars, cookies, and ice cream only to burn off those delectable treats during conditioning. It usually takes anywhere between 2-3 weeks to get into decent shape where you are able to start working on important things. Our first day was something of a challenge, but went well. We started the week off with three sets of our regular endurance intervals, which was a bit gruesome, but no one fell out (success, lmbo). We normally don't start that intense, but gotta step up for the World Champ year. By the second day we were on to core exercises that KICK MY BUTT! I have never been a big muscle guy and for that I tend to struggle with exercises dealing with brute strength and body weight. That day I really had to put my goals for the season in front of my face and go after it. The next day I can say that with every step it felt like someone was playing bongos on my butt (Talk about Soreness!). It didn't get any better from there on our Wed plyo day (another challenge for ya boy). After struggling to get my limpy noodles to move like actual legs through all of our exercises I could rest, knowing that the next 2 days were down hill. Thursday and Friday were more sprint endurance and wouldn't have been so bad if my legs didn't feel like Egg Drop soup (you know what Im talking about). Nonetheless I didn't slack at all that week and was able to create the correct outcome in my mind and force the body to do it. Like coach says: I hear it, process it, and simply DO it.
I am so greatful for everything I went through last year because I feel that it made me much tougher and I realized how soft (for lack of better words) I was acting when faced with a challenge. I have broken out of that mindset and am much stronger mentally, which will make all the difference this year. It also helps when your teammates are there doing the drills and hurting just like you are, but pushing each other to finish, and finish well.
Overall we have, I think I counted 18, people in our group with 3 of them being new and 4 others who were back and forth about joining the team late last season. Pretty much have 6 new people starting the season of with us, and I feel that they are all good additions to the squad. They are 3 Ameican sprinters (2 male), 2 sprinters from Curacao, and 2 high hurdlers (American male, and female from UK). Everyone is positive, full of energy, and as most track runners are, quite the character. Despite the big group coach has assured me that I, being the only 400 runner, won't be neglected. That was a big issue for me when I was picking my training group and I believe he will honor his word. I know this was a long post, but now you have the very details of the season's start, so holla @cha boy and drop a comment. This is the life of...a Champion!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Conditioning
Here it is!! The World Championship season is just down the street and the olympic year is soon approaching as well. As you may or may not know this coming 2011 year will be a world championship year, where many outstanding athletes will once again come together represent their countries and compete for medals. This championship event comes around every other year and you can think of it as a lesser publicized Olympic Games competition. Many people will be stepping up their training schedules and coming out of their hiatus' to perform their potentials this season, so everyone must be prepared when they step into that lane aiming to earn a spot on their country's championship team.
Speaking of training harder, I began my second week of fall conditioning yesterday, and am pretty encouraged. Last week was not too bad considering I took a complete month to do NO RUNNING WHATSOEVER!! lol. If you have had a chance to read some of my last posts, you'll know that I did stay pretty active, so I believe that had a large part of my conditioning start. Anyways, the soreness period is slowly leaving (Thank God) and I should be back to running at regular conditioning pace without any soreness. It will be just in time for our official season start on Oct. 25 (2 days after my birthday*). I am ready for this season and have a lot of people pulling on me to stay strong and "keep moving towards my goals". I can tell you from what little experience that I have, that your support team can really get you through some tough times, so I want to personally thank all of you all who have been there for me and will continue to push me toward greatness.
As far as conditioning I would say Im about where I need to be for now and that the next week and a half will get me into the shape I need to be in for practice with Coach Mitchell. This will be my sophomore year in the Pro life, but I feel like it is a rookie year all over again. I had so much confusion and anxiety last year that I didn't know what to expect. Now that I have been through a season and understand what is expected of me and what I should expect, I will be able to have better practices and ultimately better performances. As the season roars to an exciting start I am ready to take the reigns of this opportunity and carpe diem (Latin. seize the day). The life of...a warrior
Speaking of training harder, I began my second week of fall conditioning yesterday, and am pretty encouraged. Last week was not too bad considering I took a complete month to do NO RUNNING WHATSOEVER!! lol. If you have had a chance to read some of my last posts, you'll know that I did stay pretty active, so I believe that had a large part of my conditioning start. Anyways, the soreness period is slowly leaving (Thank God) and I should be back to running at regular conditioning pace without any soreness. It will be just in time for our official season start on Oct. 25 (2 days after my birthday*). I am ready for this season and have a lot of people pulling on me to stay strong and "keep moving towards my goals". I can tell you from what little experience that I have, that your support team can really get you through some tough times, so I want to personally thank all of you all who have been there for me and will continue to push me toward greatness.
As far as conditioning I would say Im about where I need to be for now and that the next week and a half will get me into the shape I need to be in for practice with Coach Mitchell. This will be my sophomore year in the Pro life, but I feel like it is a rookie year all over again. I had so much confusion and anxiety last year that I didn't know what to expect. Now that I have been through a season and understand what is expected of me and what I should expect, I will be able to have better practices and ultimately better performances. As the season roars to an exciting start I am ready to take the reigns of this opportunity and carpe diem (Latin. seize the day). The life of...a warrior
Monday, October 4, 2010
Magic!
Hey hey bloggers whats up!! So the off season continues to bring all sorts of fun, and Im LOVING IT! What have I been up to that has me so excited? Im glad you asked :) This past weekend I had the privilege to secure tickets to the event "enter Legend". this was the theme of the newly built Amway Center where the Orlando magic NBA Team play. I had heard so much about it from the state of the art technology to the comfy seats to the exquisite restaurants on site.With all the hype I couldn't help but be excited. they said they did a great job and boy did the city SHOW OUT for their Magic basketball team! The stadium is 2.5 times bigger tan the old Amway Arena and has more than 3 times the bathrooms available. (I guess that was a major issue at the lat arena). It has the largest center court screen in the country (which is comparable to the Dallas Cowboys screen, in relation to the stadium of course, in Texas). It has 2 restaurants that I saw, 2 lounges to hang out at, 2 open area bar and food locations on the upper levels, and a pretty happening kids zone too. Thats not the only thing though...their practice court is connected to the stadium as a wing that connects right to the back of their locker room. News channels had been interviewing the players prior to the grand opening and they seemed REALLY authentically hype about it.
When you walk into the Amway Center you are welcomed by a gigantic lobby area with 50 foot posters of the several star players on the team. The lobby itself is 80 feet tall and fans must take escalators to the first level. I believe I remember hearing that it has 5 levels in and of itself for seating and entertainment, and every seat has a great view of the court. Even the nosebleed$5 seats that they offer for magic games have a really good view in my opinion. Needless to say the Orlando Magic has a new home and they aren't looking back for one second, except to say "I never would have imagined something this great"! they are enjoying every moment of it and I did too. Im hoping to snatch up a couple home game tickets and check out the live action in the new Center for myself. Even if they're against crappy teams sports venues are fun to attend and can leave you with great experiences. I suggest that everyone who is able to check out the arena at one point or another. Because after all, who knows who you might meet?
When you walk into the Amway Center you are welcomed by a gigantic lobby area with 50 foot posters of the several star players on the team. The lobby itself is 80 feet tall and fans must take escalators to the first level. I believe I remember hearing that it has 5 levels in and of itself for seating and entertainment, and every seat has a great view of the court. Even the nosebleed$5 seats that they offer for magic games have a really good view in my opinion. Needless to say the Orlando Magic has a new home and they aren't looking back for one second, except to say "I never would have imagined something this great"! they are enjoying every moment of it and I did too. Im hoping to snatch up a couple home game tickets and check out the live action in the new Center for myself. Even if they're against crappy teams sports venues are fun to attend and can leave you with great experiences. I suggest that everyone who is able to check out the arena at one point or another. Because after all, who knows who you might meet?
Monday, September 20, 2010
Off-Season
Hey fellow bloggers! It has been a little while since I've had a chance to chat with you all. I've decided to give myself a complete rest from track and didn't think much about the sport or what was going on with track, etc, etc. I did keep up on a few of my favorite blogs, but that was about it. Since putting this decision into motion I have had a COMPLETE BALL. I haven't been doing a great plethora of things, but I've done some things that have kept my attention. For example, I've had the pleasure to visit 2 of Disney's many theme parks (Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom). The last time I've been to the theme parks here in Florida was more than 20 years ago when we had a huge family reunion and, sadly, I barely remember anything we did. Even though Disney is more for kids and families, I did enjoy the "magic" that the place has to offer, and it was pretty exciting. I have been twice now and have been blessed to have not paid a dime for parking or admittance to the park...you know, I've got people lol. Nonetheless, I'm waiting for one of my roommates to come through for some tix to Universal Studios so I can get on some of those roller coasters.
I have been working a good deal more than I was, but I end up having more time to myself still. I've noticed that track season takes up a lot more time than I thought until my season came to a halt. Now I do fun stuff like study or read books on things of interest like nutrition, finance and investments, cars, and the Bible. I love to learn and since being away from the college environment my brain has consistently pleaded with me to feed it something. Plus I've realized after all the years my parents forced me to read semi-interesting novels as a child, that reading is THE WAY to learn outside of formal education.
Aside from reading up on things of importance to me I've had the pleasure to stay active as well. Since season's end I've been choosing to walk or bike to work which is a good source of exercise and way to stay active without 'working out'. After talking with one of my mentors I decided to do something I had always been at least remotely interested in...dancing. Don't get me wrong...I CAN dance and have good rhythm, but I have always wanted to learn partnered dances and maybe to a hip-hop dance class. I finally mustered up enough guts to go out to a salsa spot and enter in to the unknown. They had a beginners class where I learned the Salsa basics and had some great instructors. One young lady also took me under her wing, seeing how I was pretty rhythmic and decided to teach me a touch of another style (I don't remember the name now). I can assure you that I am by all means a salsa beginner, but some of the movements came pretty easy to me. The issue was involving your partner into the dance because in salsa, and many other Latin dance styles, the man leads the woman almost as if he were a puppeteer. The basics are pretty easy to get down, but with all things practice, practice, practice is the key. I hope I can turn this new interest into something that I will enjoy for many many years to come.
I have some more fun things in the works, and hopefully I can knock them off the list before practice starts back up in full force. I'll keep you posted on the rest of the fun. This is the life...of the off-season!
I have been working a good deal more than I was, but I end up having more time to myself still. I've noticed that track season takes up a lot more time than I thought until my season came to a halt. Now I do fun stuff like study or read books on things of interest like nutrition, finance and investments, cars, and the Bible. I love to learn and since being away from the college environment my brain has consistently pleaded with me to feed it something. Plus I've realized after all the years my parents forced me to read semi-interesting novels as a child, that reading is THE WAY to learn outside of formal education.
Aside from reading up on things of importance to me I've had the pleasure to stay active as well. Since season's end I've been choosing to walk or bike to work which is a good source of exercise and way to stay active without 'working out'. After talking with one of my mentors I decided to do something I had always been at least remotely interested in...dancing. Don't get me wrong...I CAN dance and have good rhythm, but I have always wanted to learn partnered dances and maybe to a hip-hop dance class. I finally mustered up enough guts to go out to a salsa spot and enter in to the unknown. They had a beginners class where I learned the Salsa basics and had some great instructors. One young lady also took me under her wing, seeing how I was pretty rhythmic and decided to teach me a touch of another style (I don't remember the name now). I can assure you that I am by all means a salsa beginner, but some of the movements came pretty easy to me. The issue was involving your partner into the dance because in salsa, and many other Latin dance styles, the man leads the woman almost as if he were a puppeteer. The basics are pretty easy to get down, but with all things practice, practice, practice is the key. I hope I can turn this new interest into something that I will enjoy for many many years to come.
I have some more fun things in the works, and hopefully I can knock them off the list before practice starts back up in full force. I'll keep you posted on the rest of the fun. This is the life...of the off-season!
Friday, September 3, 2010
Season's Recap II
HELLO Bloggers! As I stated in Recap I the season has come to an end. Needless to say this will probably be the last post for a little bit, but who knows I may throw a few off season posts in to keep you caught up on my happenings. Recap II is about the struggle this year.
A few weeks ago I was thinking about this past season as a rookie in the professional realm of track and field. How did it go you ask? Well, I can honestly say that it wasnt something I will run through the streets jumping for joy about. I had a lot of awesome experiences that made for a great learning season, but there were a few hickups that caused my season to be less than expected too. For starters I had to learn how my new coach operates, and the type of workouts he prescribes, lol. Its not easy leaving one program only to start a totally different training philosophy. It took almost the entire year to understand how to run his practices well. Next issue was the unexplained injury during the middle of indoor season. I had a huge problem with my knees for about 2 months during a CRITICAL period of training! I tried almost everything to get better. Went to doctors and specialists, chiropractors, and even an acupuncturists and NO ONE could tell me why I was experiencing this excrutiating pains in my knees. After many bills and evaluations later with yet no answer we "called it" tendonitis. During that time training was supposed to be focused on the first half of my hurdle race, working on block starts, and increasing speed in workouts for quickness and getting faster. Well, unfortunately I wasn't able to get those aspects of my race tuned up, and as a result it showed in my competitions throughout the season. So after the injury subsided I came back only to start where we left off: at the tail end of basework. We had to go back to longer slower workouts and weren't able to train for the speed factor like we were scheduled to. I believe this is the SOLE reason I didn't PR this year because our goal was to break 50 seconds over the hurdles, and prior to, all signs pointed to surpassing the goal.
I would say that I came into the program fairly prepared for everything coach had for me on the track. Prior to the injury I was showing excellent fitness and was able to focus on other things like form, stride length, and frequency. With Coach D there is a definite system for training the body to succeed at each phase of a race. If you miss one of those phases you will be missing an element which will alter your progression or results on the track. There are usually 3 general phases (starting, top speed, and maintaining or finishing), but with a more technical race like hurdles you add at least a few more (hurdle approach, front side hurdle, backside, and hurdle-ground transition). After the injury I was a mental wreck unaware. I started to doubt a lot of my training, and my confidence on the track was pretty low. I was just nervous about getting back out and pushing my body on account of the injury especially since we never found out what it was. It ended up playing a serious role in my races and practices hindering me from getting what I needed out of them. It made coach's job about 3 times harder because he had to train me physically and also mentally.
Dispite the sob story, Im taking it as a learning experience and can only focus on the future now. I learned a lot about the sport, my race, and myself as an athlete. I was mentally weak, but my body has always been in shape to run fast. My coach and I know that the ability is there, I just need to get out of my own head on the track and stay healthy off the track. I allowed my body to dictate the success of my race when I should have been pushing my mind to MAKE the body perform. When it comes down to your race, in front of either ten or ten thousand people, it doesn't matter what you feel like. Your mind will can get your body through nearly anything. Once you can allow your body to just go, do, or react without any connection to your emotions only then will you become an elite athlete. I've only recently discovered that so I have to keep it in mind and at heart. As for now, Im looking for some ideas for cross-training. Even though Im not practicing I need to find something to keep me active. I was thinking about joining a dance class or maybe martial arts? If you have any ideas drop a comment. As always thanks for checking me out yall! This is the life of...an athlete - Keep your focus
A few weeks ago I was thinking about this past season as a rookie in the professional realm of track and field. How did it go you ask? Well, I can honestly say that it wasnt something I will run through the streets jumping for joy about. I had a lot of awesome experiences that made for a great learning season, but there were a few hickups that caused my season to be less than expected too. For starters I had to learn how my new coach operates, and the type of workouts he prescribes, lol. Its not easy leaving one program only to start a totally different training philosophy. It took almost the entire year to understand how to run his practices well. Next issue was the unexplained injury during the middle of indoor season. I had a huge problem with my knees for about 2 months during a CRITICAL period of training! I tried almost everything to get better. Went to doctors and specialists, chiropractors, and even an acupuncturists and NO ONE could tell me why I was experiencing this excrutiating pains in my knees. After many bills and evaluations later with yet no answer we "called it" tendonitis. During that time training was supposed to be focused on the first half of my hurdle race, working on block starts, and increasing speed in workouts for quickness and getting faster. Well, unfortunately I wasn't able to get those aspects of my race tuned up, and as a result it showed in my competitions throughout the season. So after the injury subsided I came back only to start where we left off: at the tail end of basework. We had to go back to longer slower workouts and weren't able to train for the speed factor like we were scheduled to. I believe this is the SOLE reason I didn't PR this year because our goal was to break 50 seconds over the hurdles, and prior to, all signs pointed to surpassing the goal.
I would say that I came into the program fairly prepared for everything coach had for me on the track. Prior to the injury I was showing excellent fitness and was able to focus on other things like form, stride length, and frequency. With Coach D there is a definite system for training the body to succeed at each phase of a race. If you miss one of those phases you will be missing an element which will alter your progression or results on the track. There are usually 3 general phases (starting, top speed, and maintaining or finishing), but with a more technical race like hurdles you add at least a few more (hurdle approach, front side hurdle, backside, and hurdle-ground transition). After the injury I was a mental wreck unaware. I started to doubt a lot of my training, and my confidence on the track was pretty low. I was just nervous about getting back out and pushing my body on account of the injury especially since we never found out what it was. It ended up playing a serious role in my races and practices hindering me from getting what I needed out of them. It made coach's job about 3 times harder because he had to train me physically and also mentally.
Dispite the sob story, Im taking it as a learning experience and can only focus on the future now. I learned a lot about the sport, my race, and myself as an athlete. I was mentally weak, but my body has always been in shape to run fast. My coach and I know that the ability is there, I just need to get out of my own head on the track and stay healthy off the track. I allowed my body to dictate the success of my race when I should have been pushing my mind to MAKE the body perform. When it comes down to your race, in front of either ten or ten thousand people, it doesn't matter what you feel like. Your mind will can get your body through nearly anything. Once you can allow your body to just go, do, or react without any connection to your emotions only then will you become an elite athlete. I've only recently discovered that so I have to keep it in mind and at heart. As for now, Im looking for some ideas for cross-training. Even though Im not practicing I need to find something to keep me active. I was thinking about joining a dance class or maybe martial arts? If you have any ideas drop a comment. As always thanks for checking me out yall! This is the life of...an athlete - Keep your focus
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Season's Recap I
Looking back on the season Im pretty satisfied. Not with everything, but for a lot. For example, I had enough guts to take a leap of faith, literally, and pursue a dream of mine with no excuses. I ended up learning a whole bunch from my new coach as well as the seasoned veterans in the sport that I run with.
Even though I look at the results from all of my meets and don't see all of the times I was shooting for, I can say that on this journey I've started to realize what it is that I want to accomplish. Upon discovering what you want you just have to put life in motion to get that goal done. This year I've learned about my coach and his training techniques, myself as an athlete (what things help me or discourage me), and the sport of Athletics (as the Europeans call it) from a technical and professional side. One thing I would have never imagined is how small the sport of Track & Field is. I've seen and met A LOT of big names that have stood out for years in the collegiate enviornment. These athletes are just regular people, some have attitudes, some are really nice, others you probably don't want to try to make eye contact with, lol. All in all I've started to take the fan out of myself as a runner and start to put strictly comptetion down on the track. After the meet, if I have a chance to chat or hang out with someone new thats cool, but if not I still have to handle my business at work (since my actual JOB is to RUN).
I've had an opportunity to find out that there is, like everything else, politics in the sport, and that a lot of times you are chosen to enter meets based on who you know or who your agent is. Some agents get together to try to blacklist athletes they don't like, and others just want to see some good races. I personally don't have an agent yet, but when the time comes I'll make sure I choose wisely.
Another thing I've noticed is that Track athletes don't get half as much, heck...a quarter, hype and press as other sports do. We are kind of on the "starving artist" employment. I've had my struggles this year financially, but I kept my eyes on God and watched his grace fill my life, which is pretty exciting. When the only thing you can do is to REALLY trust God, you see "miracles" all the time and your faith grows because of it. All in all, I've met some really interesting people like Tyson Gay, Natasha Hastings, Veronica Campbell, etc. Some really wonderful people Rodney Greene, Shalonda Solomon, Damu Cherry, Debbie Ferguson-Makenzie, etc. And have hung out with some big names too: Dave Oliver, Bershawn 'Batman' Jackson, Dwight Thomas, and Dennis Mitchell.
Taking this year as a learning experience will only help me explode into the realm of greatness next season. I know how to train, how to take care of my body, what to expect this next year of training, and I have a great support team of people in and out of my training camp. Everything is great because things could ALWAYS be worse. I'll delve a bit deaper into the ups and downs next post, SO stay tuned in! The life of...a rookie; DK
Even though I look at the results from all of my meets and don't see all of the times I was shooting for, I can say that on this journey I've started to realize what it is that I want to accomplish. Upon discovering what you want you just have to put life in motion to get that goal done. This year I've learned about my coach and his training techniques, myself as an athlete (what things help me or discourage me), and the sport of Athletics (as the Europeans call it) from a technical and professional side. One thing I would have never imagined is how small the sport of Track & Field is. I've seen and met A LOT of big names that have stood out for years in the collegiate enviornment. These athletes are just regular people, some have attitudes, some are really nice, others you probably don't want to try to make eye contact with, lol. All in all I've started to take the fan out of myself as a runner and start to put strictly comptetion down on the track. After the meet, if I have a chance to chat or hang out with someone new thats cool, but if not I still have to handle my business at work (since my actual JOB is to RUN).
I've had an opportunity to find out that there is, like everything else, politics in the sport, and that a lot of times you are chosen to enter meets based on who you know or who your agent is. Some agents get together to try to blacklist athletes they don't like, and others just want to see some good races. I personally don't have an agent yet, but when the time comes I'll make sure I choose wisely.
Another thing I've noticed is that Track athletes don't get half as much, heck...a quarter, hype and press as other sports do. We are kind of on the "starving artist" employment. I've had my struggles this year financially, but I kept my eyes on God and watched his grace fill my life, which is pretty exciting. When the only thing you can do is to REALLY trust God, you see "miracles" all the time and your faith grows because of it. All in all, I've met some really interesting people like Tyson Gay, Natasha Hastings, Veronica Campbell, etc. Some really wonderful people Rodney Greene, Shalonda Solomon, Damu Cherry, Debbie Ferguson-Makenzie, etc. And have hung out with some big names too: Dave Oliver, Bershawn 'Batman' Jackson, Dwight Thomas, and Dennis Mitchell.
Taking this year as a learning experience will only help me explode into the realm of greatness next season. I know how to train, how to take care of my body, what to expect this next year of training, and I have a great support team of people in and out of my training camp. Everything is great because things could ALWAYS be worse. I'll delve a bit deaper into the ups and downs next post, SO stay tuned in! The life of...a rookie; DK
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Season's End, but not really
Since I've last spoke to you bloggers and friends I had just finished my last track meet of the season in Atlanta. Of late work, church, friends, and more work has occupied much of my time. I haven't been getting as many hours as I would like or need to, so I may end up looking for another job or source of income. (Keep me in your prayers). Outside of work I have been trying to do some studying on investing, which has always sparked my interest. Now I only need some money to put my newfound knowledge to use right, lol.
Aside from these things I've talked with my coach about the gameplan for offseason and the remainder of this season. Yes, the season isn't over just because I've stopped competing. I can't close out my season until the actual Professional season is over or I could run the risk of being too out of shape when we resume practice, or I could end up being worn out right around the time I need to be on fully. It made sense and Im now starting to grasp the reason why.
So it looks like I have another month of training for conditioning sake before I can completely shut it down for a few weeks break. As a rookie it was weird hearing that I should continue training even when my season is over. Like I said in past posts, this year has really been a big introductory and learning year for me in what to expect and how all of the elements fit into the pro realm of track and field. Until next time bloggers. This is the life...of me!
Aside from these things I've talked with my coach about the gameplan for offseason and the remainder of this season. Yes, the season isn't over just because I've stopped competing. I can't close out my season until the actual Professional season is over or I could run the risk of being too out of shape when we resume practice, or I could end up being worn out right around the time I need to be on fully. It made sense and Im now starting to grasp the reason why.
So it looks like I have another month of training for conditioning sake before I can completely shut it down for a few weeks break. As a rookie it was weird hearing that I should continue training even when my season is over. Like I said in past posts, this year has really been a big introductory and learning year for me in what to expect and how all of the elements fit into the pro realm of track and field. Until next time bloggers. This is the life...of me!
AAAG Track Festival
Whew! Whats up bloggers. The past few days have been pretty hectic getting back to Florida and settling back into the groove of things, so the weekend recap is a little late. Lets rewind to Saturday...Race day! I was pretty excited to be running again and so soon. Its better to run races in either a consistent rhythm or quick spurts back to back. That way your body will start to get adjusted to racing quickly. Usually with these type of schedules you can produce consistent times and will eventually see a big drop in time.
The meet was scheduled to start at 8am Saturday morning. I still hadn't fully registered so I decided to get up early and head out before the first gun went off. Some meets I've run in have had registration prior to the meet start then they cut it off so I wasn't trying to risk traveling 400 miles to sit and watch a meet due to a late arrival and registration. Of course, to my surprise I arrived around 8 and the meet hadn't started so I had plenty of time to register. I quickly found that the meet was in a bit of some trouble, organizationally, and that it could be a long day! And BOY WAS IT A LONG ONE!!! After the initial race being delayed about an hour, preceeding the next 5 treacherous hours waiting around for my race, I'd had about enough. Long story short, due to the small group of athletes competing in the 400 hurdle event they decided to move the race to straight finals on Sunday. For some reason I didn't hear that announcement so by the time I noticed they skipped my event I was a bit frustrated.
The meet director Eric Merriweather attempted to accomodate me by allowing me to jump in the 200 since I was prepared to run and had already warmed up well. In the check-in area we received our lane assignments and we ready to head to the track any minute. At this time I was pretty excited to jump in a fun race where I would just enjoy competing and try to put down a decent 200 time. As the clerk called the open/masters sections to the front she said, "ok, we're gonna run you all tomorrow. you will go to straight finals tomorrow afternoon." WHAT, R U SERIOUS!!!!!
I really couldn't believe it. Two races both moved to the following day. To say the least I was pretty upset. At the track for 6 hours or something and hadn't run a single race. I could have been running around the city seeing the sights and enjoying myself, lol. Things happen, and you have to accept it so I after I relaxed a bit I wasnt too dissappointed. I just wish I could have used that time for something productive.
_____________
The next day I got up and went through more of the same. I ended up running at around 5pm, but thankfully I did have a chance to run. The race went well! I ended up winning and ran a decent time considering the circumstances and delays. I had a much better block start thanks to a few of my teammates who helped me a bit with blocks before I left. I attacked each hurdle all the way down the back stretch and felt like I was moving very well. Going into the curve (hurdle 6) I pressed forward and surged a bit. I had had trouble going into hurdle six all season and I was finally conquering it. I ran straight over the hurdle with my opposite leg, but since I didn't hesitate or think about messing up I didn't chop my steps. I proceeded around to H7 and cleared it with my natural leg, then came back on H8 and switched. Down the home straightaway I came, and using as much arm action I could muster. I cleared the last two hurdles to sprint to an acceptable time for me at this point in the season. Of course it wasn't a PB (personal best) but it was a solid race from start to finish, and I'll take that as an experience race. I say that because it is sometimes better to get your structure and base down in a race before you run super fast and have no time to fix it. Im learning my race, the pattern Im comfortable with, and how to be comfortable at each stage of the race. That is one thing I will come away with this year versus my previous years where I would run without any concrete understanding of the race and all its critical points (or areas of interest).
After the meet I had a chance to chat with a few young guys that also ran the 400 hurdles. They were all pretty positive and seemed eager to do well and reach their goals, so I have no doubt that they will accomplish them with dedication and hard work. All in all I was pleased with the weekend and thoroughly enjoyed my time in the HUGE city of Atlanta.
Again, I want to thank Mr. Merriweather for getting me into the meet and working with me throughout the time there. He was a cool guy and we shared a few laughs together waiting around at the track. A big thanks also goes out to my cousin Turiq for taking such good care of me. This is the life of...me, DK.
The meet was scheduled to start at 8am Saturday morning. I still hadn't fully registered so I decided to get up early and head out before the first gun went off. Some meets I've run in have had registration prior to the meet start then they cut it off so I wasn't trying to risk traveling 400 miles to sit and watch a meet due to a late arrival and registration. Of course, to my surprise I arrived around 8 and the meet hadn't started so I had plenty of time to register. I quickly found that the meet was in a bit of some trouble, organizationally, and that it could be a long day! And BOY WAS IT A LONG ONE!!! After the initial race being delayed about an hour, preceeding the next 5 treacherous hours waiting around for my race, I'd had about enough. Long story short, due to the small group of athletes competing in the 400 hurdle event they decided to move the race to straight finals on Sunday. For some reason I didn't hear that announcement so by the time I noticed they skipped my event I was a bit frustrated.
The meet director Eric Merriweather attempted to accomodate me by allowing me to jump in the 200 since I was prepared to run and had already warmed up well. In the check-in area we received our lane assignments and we ready to head to the track any minute. At this time I was pretty excited to jump in a fun race where I would just enjoy competing and try to put down a decent 200 time. As the clerk called the open/masters sections to the front she said, "ok, we're gonna run you all tomorrow. you will go to straight finals tomorrow afternoon." WHAT, R U SERIOUS!!!!!
I really couldn't believe it. Two races both moved to the following day. To say the least I was pretty upset. At the track for 6 hours or something and hadn't run a single race. I could have been running around the city seeing the sights and enjoying myself, lol. Things happen, and you have to accept it so I after I relaxed a bit I wasnt too dissappointed. I just wish I could have used that time for something productive.
_____________
The next day I got up and went through more of the same. I ended up running at around 5pm, but thankfully I did have a chance to run. The race went well! I ended up winning and ran a decent time considering the circumstances and delays. I had a much better block start thanks to a few of my teammates who helped me a bit with blocks before I left. I attacked each hurdle all the way down the back stretch and felt like I was moving very well. Going into the curve (hurdle 6) I pressed forward and surged a bit. I had had trouble going into hurdle six all season and I was finally conquering it. I ran straight over the hurdle with my opposite leg, but since I didn't hesitate or think about messing up I didn't chop my steps. I proceeded around to H7 and cleared it with my natural leg, then came back on H8 and switched. Down the home straightaway I came, and using as much arm action I could muster. I cleared the last two hurdles to sprint to an acceptable time for me at this point in the season. Of course it wasn't a PB (personal best) but it was a solid race from start to finish, and I'll take that as an experience race. I say that because it is sometimes better to get your structure and base down in a race before you run super fast and have no time to fix it. Im learning my race, the pattern Im comfortable with, and how to be comfortable at each stage of the race. That is one thing I will come away with this year versus my previous years where I would run without any concrete understanding of the race and all its critical points (or areas of interest).
After the meet I had a chance to chat with a few young guys that also ran the 400 hurdles. They were all pretty positive and seemed eager to do well and reach their goals, so I have no doubt that they will accomplish them with dedication and hard work. All in all I was pleased with the weekend and thoroughly enjoyed my time in the HUGE city of Atlanta.
Again, I want to thank Mr. Merriweather for getting me into the meet and working with me throughout the time there. He was a cool guy and we shared a few laughs together waiting around at the track. A big thanks also goes out to my cousin Turiq for taking such good care of me. This is the life of...me, DK.
Friday, July 23, 2010
ATL Shawty!
I had to get one of those off when I first arrived. ATLANTA, here I am! The drive up here was pretty smooth. I ran into bad traffic about 2 hours away from the city, but the rest of the way was easy driving. It was a pretty taxing trip early, but as I got closer and had something to eat I started to feel better. It ended up taking way too long 8 hours, but it was primarily because I stopped 3 times for almost an hour each. I wanted to have plenty of time to get out and stretch for awhile. That way I wouldn't be sitting for too long at any time and I can take some of the shock off of my body. After a long traveling day whether it be flying or driving you want to try to relieve as much stress from your body as you can. Usually traveling causes your muscles to tighten up pretty bad and it takes a day or two to recover from it.
When I arrived in Atlanta I met up with my cousin and stopped by his house. I haven't seen much of the city yet, but so far Atlanta is the spot. I have my first round of the hurdles tomorrow so Im going to hit the sack. Let you know how it goes. Stay posted.
When I arrived in Atlanta I met up with my cousin and stopped by his house. I haven't seen much of the city yet, but so far Atlanta is the spot. I have my first round of the hurdles tomorrow so Im going to hit the sack. Let you know how it goes. Stay posted.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Back at it
My flight into Orlando this morning was pretty late, like past midnight late. I wasn't too shaken up with the delayed arrival, other than the very rocky landing. I usually don't go to sleep until at least 12 anyway, so I just tried to think like I didn't fly, but had just been up all day. It helped for the most part.
I woke up to an early sunrise to head to the track and get back to work. Im happy I have a chance to come home between my meets because sometimes you can get pretty unmotivated under stressful situations. I didn't even realize it, but my coach went out of town after practice and I was looking forward to getting some damage done on the track this week. Not sure if our unofficial assistant coach will be there tomorrow to help out, but I wouldn't bet money on it. That means that I will have to come prepared tomorrow to push myself and solely get the job done.
Im actually pretty excited about my next meet this weekend. It will be in Atlanta and we have TWO ROUNDS of the 400m hurdles! That almost never happens. Sprinters always like to have more than one round because it allows you to not only get the first-race jitters out, but it also allows you to fix what issues come up in the preliminary round. Needless to say I will focus on a few things the first round then try to tighten up the following day in the finals.
This is actually my first time going to Atlanta (besides the unforgettable night I spent in their airport). Thats a totally different story. Anyways I hear Atlanta is a great city and has a lot of opportunities for educated African Americans. Not that Im planning on moving or living there, but I think it will be cool to get a glimpse of an upcoming city in which I've never been. Aside from positive features I also hear it has its several very notable downs. If you don't know...you should probably ask someone. Hopefully I don't have any problems either way. I head for the ATL Friday morning so I will try and give you all an update when I arrive. The life of...a traveling man :) I love it!!
I woke up to an early sunrise to head to the track and get back to work. Im happy I have a chance to come home between my meets because sometimes you can get pretty unmotivated under stressful situations. I didn't even realize it, but my coach went out of town after practice and I was looking forward to getting some damage done on the track this week. Not sure if our unofficial assistant coach will be there tomorrow to help out, but I wouldn't bet money on it. That means that I will have to come prepared tomorrow to push myself and solely get the job done.
Im actually pretty excited about my next meet this weekend. It will be in Atlanta and we have TWO ROUNDS of the 400m hurdles! That almost never happens. Sprinters always like to have more than one round because it allows you to not only get the first-race jitters out, but it also allows you to fix what issues come up in the preliminary round. Needless to say I will focus on a few things the first round then try to tighten up the following day in the finals.
This is actually my first time going to Atlanta (besides the unforgettable night I spent in their airport). Thats a totally different story. Anyways I hear Atlanta is a great city and has a lot of opportunities for educated African Americans. Not that Im planning on moving or living there, but I think it will be cool to get a glimpse of an upcoming city in which I've never been. Aside from positive features I also hear it has its several very notable downs. If you don't know...you should probably ask someone. Hopefully I don't have any problems either way. I head for the ATL Friday morning so I will try and give you all an update when I arrive. The life of...a traveling man :) I love it!!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Windsor Legion Meet
Hey bloggers whats up? The meet in Windsor was quite the experience. I arrived a few hours early to have a chance to relax and sit around before I warm up. (Thats kinda my thing. I hate to rush a warm-up, and I feel its good to have a chance to chill in the meet enviornment before you start to warm-up.) When they finally opened up the registration booth I found myself climbing up several flights of steps to the pressbox only to be found missing from the meet entries list. I had to wait another 20 or so minutes until the meet director showed up to add my name to the list as a pre-registered athlete (less $ for me to pay). Then I finished stretching, drilling, and went over about 6 hurdles real easy.
I felt good going into the race and my body had no complaints as I was concerned so I was looking for a good race. As they were finishing up the sprint race just before they set the hurdles up a heavy overcast came in. It was already pretty windy when I showed up to the track but since the meet had begun the wind only got worse from there. The race just prior to mine read a wind reading of 4.4 which is PSYCHO!! That is probably the worst wind I've ever encountered in my days running track. Unfortunately for 400, or 1-lap runners, we get the head and tailwind to challenge us throughout the race.
With apacolypse in the air and my race about to start the show must go on. I was really looking to have a good race in Canada, but there is only so much you can do as an athlete before outside circumstances come your way. Weather is one of the most difficult. In races like this you know that times will be off from the norm so you just go for the win, and thats just what I did.
I started out in lane 6, due to another technicality wherein I was not located on the hurdle start list. They just stuck me in the outside of my four competitors; I love it! From that point on I never looked back and didn't see anyone else until the race was over; start to finish I controlled the race. Im sure I could have started off a bit faster, but my race was very solid for the first 7 hurdles. I was on with my natural leg (most comfortable lead leg and trail leg) for six hurdles, then switched very well at seven. I came around to hurdle 8 and hesitated for a split second and shortened my last step just a bit causing my velocity to drop. I got over hurdle 9 and came powering towards the final barrier only to see the clock passing the time I wanted to be coming off of that last one. Clearing the last hurdle, I had an akward landing on my trail leg which also took some more time off the clock before I was able to sprint it in for first place.
Was the time world leading, a PR or even a Seasons best? NO. But was the race solid and tactful, I would say for the most part. My race pattern is getting stronger and stronger so I can't complain. Would I have liked to have put together a better and faster race? Sure! I think any athlete can say that after whatever they run. I thank God that the rain held off until my race was over and that I came out of there healthy and without injury. That is always something to shout about; its never fun watching from the sidelines knowing what you can do, so Im greatful for the healthy finish. The rest of the weekend entails hanging out with my close friend Adrean and seeing family. I will enjoy the life I have outside of track. So until next time bloggers. This is the life of...a trackstar.
I felt good going into the race and my body had no complaints as I was concerned so I was looking for a good race. As they were finishing up the sprint race just before they set the hurdles up a heavy overcast came in. It was already pretty windy when I showed up to the track but since the meet had begun the wind only got worse from there. The race just prior to mine read a wind reading of 4.4 which is PSYCHO!! That is probably the worst wind I've ever encountered in my days running track. Unfortunately for 400, or 1-lap runners, we get the head and tailwind to challenge us throughout the race.
With apacolypse in the air and my race about to start the show must go on. I was really looking to have a good race in Canada, but there is only so much you can do as an athlete before outside circumstances come your way. Weather is one of the most difficult. In races like this you know that times will be off from the norm so you just go for the win, and thats just what I did.
I started out in lane 6, due to another technicality wherein I was not located on the hurdle start list. They just stuck me in the outside of my four competitors; I love it! From that point on I never looked back and didn't see anyone else until the race was over; start to finish I controlled the race. Im sure I could have started off a bit faster, but my race was very solid for the first 7 hurdles. I was on with my natural leg (most comfortable lead leg and trail leg) for six hurdles, then switched very well at seven. I came around to hurdle 8 and hesitated for a split second and shortened my last step just a bit causing my velocity to drop. I got over hurdle 9 and came powering towards the final barrier only to see the clock passing the time I wanted to be coming off of that last one. Clearing the last hurdle, I had an akward landing on my trail leg which also took some more time off the clock before I was able to sprint it in for first place.
Was the time world leading, a PR or even a Seasons best? NO. But was the race solid and tactful, I would say for the most part. My race pattern is getting stronger and stronger so I can't complain. Would I have liked to have put together a better and faster race? Sure! I think any athlete can say that after whatever they run. I thank God that the rain held off until my race was over and that I came out of there healthy and without injury. That is always something to shout about; its never fun watching from the sidelines knowing what you can do, so Im greatful for the healthy finish. The rest of the weekend entails hanging out with my close friend Adrean and seeing family. I will enjoy the life I have outside of track. So until next time bloggers. This is the life of...a trackstar.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Back in Action
Hey everyone! I was able to get home in very good time considering a scare I had the night before. I received a call from delta while I was at work informing me that my flight home was CANCELLED. Then the worst news came; they rerouted me from my straight flight home to a layover in Atlanta. Now look here I don't really mind layovers when Im not in a rush and it NOT IN ATLANTA. I've had some BAD experiences going through Atlanta and it usually resulted in more delayed flights, cancellations, and sleep overs, lmbo. Im not down for the raindeer games anymore, and Im not trying to encounter any of that mess.
So anyway, I arrived to the airport just in time to take an earlier non-stop flight home and had an extra hour at home before I saw my parents off for their vacation. The rest of the week I have a loose schedule, but Im hoping to staple some things down for sure. I'm planning on seeing several friends and family members this week, so Im looking forward to that.
Until then I'll just be relaxing and taking it easy around the house preparing for my track meet that will be held in Windsor, Canada on Thursday. Im excited to finally get back out on the track because the last 3 weeks at practice have been monumental from a quality standpoint. Im expecting good things and a clean race. I just have to go out there and execute. The life...of an athlete.
So anyway, I arrived to the airport just in time to take an earlier non-stop flight home and had an extra hour at home before I saw my parents off for their vacation. The rest of the week I have a loose schedule, but Im hoping to staple some things down for sure. I'm planning on seeing several friends and family members this week, so Im looking forward to that.
Until then I'll just be relaxing and taking it easy around the house preparing for my track meet that will be held in Windsor, Canada on Thursday. Im excited to finally get back out on the track because the last 3 weeks at practice have been monumental from a quality standpoint. Im expecting good things and a clean race. I just have to go out there and execute. The life...of an athlete.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Hey bloggers whats up? Im back with another post to keep you all up to date with my happenings. I can say that despite any competitions the past weeks I have been feeling great! I have had some awesome practices and have been attacking the hurdles much better. I believe that I have finally gotten down my pace for my race and my coach and I have seen a superior improvement in my practices. Im attacking all the hurdles much cleaner, I no longer have to think about whether I'll clear any hurdles, my race confidence is there, and although we don't spend much time on it, my form is even coming together.
Coach has really done a great job coaching our mentality as well as our physical. There are several times I thought I was in church because I got a revelation of what he was telling us. I feel that sometimes God is using him to speak right into our races. Those times it always helps and see improvement due to his coaching insight.
I haven't been able to put my new found race to use since there is a serious drought of meets around the area, but I am planning on it Thursday when I race in Windsor Canada. Im looking forward to the meet and Im expecting a great result. I don't want to place any limitations on my race so I'll just say it will be a good one.
So Im headed back home to Michigan to see family, friends, and handle this business. If you are around and have a passport (new rules from US for any of our borders) stop by Thursday evening @ 5pm at the University of Windsor and check me out. This is the life...of a man fulfilling his assignment
Coach has really done a great job coaching our mentality as well as our physical. There are several times I thought I was in church because I got a revelation of what he was telling us. I feel that sometimes God is using him to speak right into our races. Those times it always helps and see improvement due to his coaching insight.
I haven't been able to put my new found race to use since there is a serious drought of meets around the area, but I am planning on it Thursday when I race in Windsor Canada. Im looking forward to the meet and Im expecting a great result. I don't want to place any limitations on my race so I'll just say it will be a good one.
So Im headed back home to Michigan to see family, friends, and handle this business. If you are around and have a passport (new rules from US for any of our borders) stop by Thursday evening @ 5pm at the University of Windsor and check me out. This is the life...of a man fulfilling his assignment
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Update
Hey bloggers, whats crackin! I know I've missed out on my June posts for the most part, but BOY have I been on a grind! From work to play and trying to find time for myself to do some much anticipated studying (I like to learn!). Anyways, this is how June ended up goin down:
I've had two track meets this month, both put on by my great coach: D. Mitchell. Even if I havent seen such a huge improvement in times this year (just getting back to my PR) I've already progressed so much under him. Im actually learning how to run and more importantly how to think on the track. My first race was the 5th and it went pretty well. I blasted outta the blocks and ripped down the back stretch. Unfortunately my body has lately been deciding that @ 200m I start thinking and mess my steps up. I actually end up finishing the last 100m accompanied by my final two barriers fairly well; usually closing on people. I don't know what it is about that second curve but it just looks like I'm not going to make any of those hurdles over there so I start to force my stride open and it slows me down. One of my boys Adretti said I need to trust my steps and keep trying to gun for it. I'll definitely try something like that next race. Needless to say I didn't win the race but I came in 3rd overall.
The second meet on the 12th was MOS (More of the Same) as my old finance instructor used to say, he thought that was soo funny...I don't know. Ok Im back from my tangent. I was actually really tired going into this meet. It was WAY hotter than the the week before and we were experiencing a record heat index that whole week. I prepared for the meet well eating sleeping, drinking water, and taking care of my body but I was just drained when I stepped on the track. I did do more hurdle drills prior to race start, so perhaps. Anyway, I felt like I got out pretty slow...got rolled on at the backstretch (way too early to see any competitors from your inside lanes). I didn't feel like I was pushing it much first half of the race, but I came on a little bit towards the end (typical). Not enough to get the win though.
Aside from running I've been trying to figure out what exactly can you do in Orlando besides Theme Parks. I mean Im down for a good thrill ride any day of the week, but when it costs $89 for a one-day pass, I'd rather watch the birds fly around in the sky. Plenty enough excitement for me; at least for the first 5 or 6 minutes.
I've been trying to take care of my car, but some small things pop up now and then. How many people get their oil changed every 3k miles? Alright now newer cars have an oil gauge that tells your oil life? if you are only @ 60% every 3k miles would you think you really NEED to get another change so soon, or does the guage mean little to nothing as far as oil maintenance?
As for all the excitement in my voice its because Im headed back home in about 2 weeks! Im mainly there for business (track meet) but I can always relax, stress free around family. If you can't tell Im pretty excited about it. With a stress free enviornment better times are always produced and its easier to focus, so Im looking forward to a comfortable and fast race.
In other news, BIG shoutout to my long-time good good friend Philip Roscoe who just signed his first professional baseball contract to play in Canada. He's definitely doing his thing and Im looking to see some great stats among other things (major's possibly...hmmm?!) lol. Once again Congratulations Man, you are living your dream! As for me Im outta here bloggers so see you later Sayonara e Konbanwa! This is...the life of D Kinney
I've had two track meets this month, both put on by my great coach: D. Mitchell. Even if I havent seen such a huge improvement in times this year (just getting back to my PR) I've already progressed so much under him. Im actually learning how to run and more importantly how to think on the track. My first race was the 5th and it went pretty well. I blasted outta the blocks and ripped down the back stretch. Unfortunately my body has lately been deciding that @ 200m I start thinking and mess my steps up. I actually end up finishing the last 100m accompanied by my final two barriers fairly well; usually closing on people. I don't know what it is about that second curve but it just looks like I'm not going to make any of those hurdles over there so I start to force my stride open and it slows me down. One of my boys Adretti said I need to trust my steps and keep trying to gun for it. I'll definitely try something like that next race. Needless to say I didn't win the race but I came in 3rd overall.
The second meet on the 12th was MOS (More of the Same) as my old finance instructor used to say, he thought that was soo funny...I don't know. Ok Im back from my tangent. I was actually really tired going into this meet. It was WAY hotter than the the week before and we were experiencing a record heat index that whole week. I prepared for the meet well eating sleeping, drinking water, and taking care of my body but I was just drained when I stepped on the track. I did do more hurdle drills prior to race start, so perhaps. Anyway, I felt like I got out pretty slow...got rolled on at the backstretch (way too early to see any competitors from your inside lanes). I didn't feel like I was pushing it much first half of the race, but I came on a little bit towards the end (typical). Not enough to get the win though.
Aside from running I've been trying to figure out what exactly can you do in Orlando besides Theme Parks. I mean Im down for a good thrill ride any day of the week, but when it costs $89 for a one-day pass, I'd rather watch the birds fly around in the sky. Plenty enough excitement for me; at least for the first 5 or 6 minutes.
I've been trying to take care of my car, but some small things pop up now and then. How many people get their oil changed every 3k miles? Alright now newer cars have an oil gauge that tells your oil life? if you are only @ 60% every 3k miles would you think you really NEED to get another change so soon, or does the guage mean little to nothing as far as oil maintenance?
As for all the excitement in my voice its because Im headed back home in about 2 weeks! Im mainly there for business (track meet) but I can always relax, stress free around family. If you can't tell Im pretty excited about it. With a stress free enviornment better times are always produced and its easier to focus, so Im looking forward to a comfortable and fast race.
In other news, BIG shoutout to my long-time good good friend Philip Roscoe who just signed his first professional baseball contract to play in Canada. He's definitely doing his thing and Im looking to see some great stats among other things (major's possibly...hmmm?!) lol. Once again Congratulations Man, you are living your dream! As for me Im outta here bloggers so see you later Sayonara e Konbanwa! This is...the life of D Kinney
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Good Things
One of the main reasons I haven't been on the computer is just that I don't have as much time (ie. Im not forcing myself to stay up wee hours in the night for all the facebook updates and wall posts...yea fb is a problem). Instead I've determined to at least try to start heading in a better direction and allow my body to get the rest and nutrients it needs.
Of late I've been reading and researching about eating healthy and several other vital elements our body needs to function at optimal efficiency. The book is by Dr. Don Colbert titled, The Seven Pillars of Health. In it he describes seven main areas where almost every person (especially americans) can improve on for their body to "get back to creation" essentially. As you know our bodies are very complex and intricately designed not only to sustain our active lifestyles, but to ward off diseases and toxins we encounter on a daily basis too. Some of the pillars include the importance of water, sleep and rest, eating living foods, and coping/eliminating stress. I am learning a whole lot from the book and I feel that the small changes Im implementing are already showing results in my practices and my job.
Speaking of practice it has been going much better and it is safe to say I've gotten into a comfortable rythm to where my hurdle days are not so scary. I used to get mini anxiety attacks going into hurdle practice for fear of messing up, not doing exactly what coach wanted, or being mentally fatigued, all of which ended up wearing on me and came to pass for the most part. The past 2.5 weeks have been much better and I've been more relaxed, faster, and more confident.
Some things that helped me out, which I would recommend you do if you have any similar life issues, is to have someone to discuss what you feel is going on. Try identifying what is causing any mental or physical blocks, and when you discover them do what is necessary to erradicate them. Next I read the Bible (you may be surprised how comforting it is to your issues). I am a Christian, and have grown up in church all my life, but the Bible isn't just for "religion". It literally has advice and substantial wisdom in MANY areas of any persons regular lifestyle. I try take a little time out every day to read The Word, but I have really been activating it with my faith, and in so doing have seen amazing results. I challenge you to try the Word in truth and sincerity and see if it doesn't help comfort and lead you to a better life. There is one last thing I've chose to do in efforts to eliminate the stresses of life, bills, and worry. I've kept my mind off worry and instead have done things I like such as listened to music, reading books, or (my favorite) watching a good movie, usually comedy, that takes my mind off my cares. After these things I always feel much better. If you have worries, bills, and problems that are disturbing you it doesn't help to pout about them. If you clear your mind and relax your body you will be in a better mental position where you can think clearly and solve your problems.
In addition to these changes I've been trying to implement a better nutrition intake for myself and get the necessary 7-9 hours of sleep each day. On days that I know I'll be working my evening job, and possibly miss out on my full nights sleep, I try to get in a nap after practice. This way my body will allow itself to jumpstart the recovery thing for a little while so it can pick up later that night. Drop a comment to say what helps you get over stress. The life of...DKtG
Of late I've been reading and researching about eating healthy and several other vital elements our body needs to function at optimal efficiency. The book is by Dr. Don Colbert titled, The Seven Pillars of Health. In it he describes seven main areas where almost every person (especially americans) can improve on for their body to "get back to creation" essentially. As you know our bodies are very complex and intricately designed not only to sustain our active lifestyles, but to ward off diseases and toxins we encounter on a daily basis too. Some of the pillars include the importance of water, sleep and rest, eating living foods, and coping/eliminating stress. I am learning a whole lot from the book and I feel that the small changes Im implementing are already showing results in my practices and my job.
Speaking of practice it has been going much better and it is safe to say I've gotten into a comfortable rythm to where my hurdle days are not so scary. I used to get mini anxiety attacks going into hurdle practice for fear of messing up, not doing exactly what coach wanted, or being mentally fatigued, all of which ended up wearing on me and came to pass for the most part. The past 2.5 weeks have been much better and I've been more relaxed, faster, and more confident.
Some things that helped me out, which I would recommend you do if you have any similar life issues, is to have someone to discuss what you feel is going on. Try identifying what is causing any mental or physical blocks, and when you discover them do what is necessary to erradicate them. Next I read the Bible (you may be surprised how comforting it is to your issues). I am a Christian, and have grown up in church all my life, but the Bible isn't just for "religion". It literally has advice and substantial wisdom in MANY areas of any persons regular lifestyle. I try take a little time out every day to read The Word, but I have really been activating it with my faith, and in so doing have seen amazing results. I challenge you to try the Word in truth and sincerity and see if it doesn't help comfort and lead you to a better life. There is one last thing I've chose to do in efforts to eliminate the stresses of life, bills, and worry. I've kept my mind off worry and instead have done things I like such as listened to music, reading books, or (my favorite) watching a good movie, usually comedy, that takes my mind off my cares. After these things I always feel much better. If you have worries, bills, and problems that are disturbing you it doesn't help to pout about them. If you clear your mind and relax your body you will be in a better mental position where you can think clearly and solve your problems.
In addition to these changes I've been trying to implement a better nutrition intake for myself and get the necessary 7-9 hours of sleep each day. On days that I know I'll be working my evening job, and possibly miss out on my full nights sleep, I try to get in a nap after practice. This way my body will allow itself to jumpstart the recovery thing for a little while so it can pick up later that night. Drop a comment to say what helps you get over stress. The life of...DKtG
Relaxing with the fam
I haven't been on my computer for a few reasons lately, but there is a lot to talk about. I guess since my last post I've been had the pleasure of taking some down time about a week ago. I went to see my family out near Daytona, and could use a release from my world over here. I feel that even though your family may get on your nerves or ask you for strange requests, I feel that there is still a sense of tranquility around them. Plus the alluring sounds of waves on the beachside help too, lol. So I had a chance to visit my family, my Aunt Nay (who is doing very well), and my two favorite little cousins who always keep me on my toes Arrington and lil Zae.
I went over my lil guys house and hung out with them for a while trying to figure out if we could go somewhere. By the time we had our plan to go watch Iron Man 2 it was already 8pm and their grandma wasn't having that! I guess I'll have to catch up with them next time and have a plan on the way over there so we can put it into action immediately.
Aside from hanging out with the young fellas I had a chance to go down to this "Old Fort Park" which is part of some archeological ruins from Native Americans that inhabited the area roughly 400 years ago. They had a gospel festival at the park where I had a chance to meet a few old friends of my cousin (those of whom my grandma would probably remember). I also met the pastor and assistant pastor of the church most of the older members of the family grew up in...pretty cool. Personally, its fun to hear about history through the stories of others; its much better than reading books, lmbo.
Speaking of history, I was shocked and intrigued to hear that Edwin Moses, the great and most winning 400 meter hurdler ever, could be seen running around the streets where my family grew up. My uncle Jimmy said that the Moses family lived down the way from the family and young Edwin used to be around. I don't think that he lived there, but apparently he had family that he would visit in that same area. Pretty cool!
After a long and tiring day I had yet to complete one final task: putting together a TV stand for my aunt. It was already past 10 and I still had an hour drive back to Orlando that night. I think one of the things keeping me there was the fact that there was an NBA game on at the same time, lol. If I didn't have something to keep my attention I would have crashed right there on the floor. Fortunately I pulled myself together and made it back safely just before 1am to plop into my own cozy bed for the night. The life of...a family man...Track news up next
I went over my lil guys house and hung out with them for a while trying to figure out if we could go somewhere. By the time we had our plan to go watch Iron Man 2 it was already 8pm and their grandma wasn't having that! I guess I'll have to catch up with them next time and have a plan on the way over there so we can put it into action immediately.
Aside from hanging out with the young fellas I had a chance to go down to this "Old Fort Park" which is part of some archeological ruins from Native Americans that inhabited the area roughly 400 years ago. They had a gospel festival at the park where I had a chance to meet a few old friends of my cousin (those of whom my grandma would probably remember). I also met the pastor and assistant pastor of the church most of the older members of the family grew up in...pretty cool. Personally, its fun to hear about history through the stories of others; its much better than reading books, lmbo.
Speaking of history, I was shocked and intrigued to hear that Edwin Moses, the great and most winning 400 meter hurdler ever, could be seen running around the streets where my family grew up. My uncle Jimmy said that the Moses family lived down the way from the family and young Edwin used to be around. I don't think that he lived there, but apparently he had family that he would visit in that same area. Pretty cool!
After a long and tiring day I had yet to complete one final task: putting together a TV stand for my aunt. It was already past 10 and I still had an hour drive back to Orlando that night. I think one of the things keeping me there was the fact that there was an NBA game on at the same time, lol. If I didn't have something to keep my attention I would have crashed right there on the floor. Fortunately I pulled myself together and made it back safely just before 1am to plop into my own cozy bed for the night. The life of...a family man...Track news up next
Friday, May 14, 2010
Season update
Hello bloggers! The last time we talked was a little over a week ago. That was my first 400 hurdle race and it seems like a lot has happened since then. One of my meets ended up being rained out. Side note I have had 3 rain-outs at this particular track (they planned it, lol). Seriously though I didn't have a chance to compete in that meet so I had to wait another week (today) to get another shot at victory.
The meet was a twilight meet at USF in Tampa, FL. This was the first time on the South Florida campus and I must say that I was impressed. The school looked brand new with a spacious campus and was filled with interesting people. I definitely have to give them two thumps up for their sports facilities. The track was a specialized surface (forget the name) but was the same surface as the track in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The stadium was very nice and with a fast track like theirs you can imagine how excited I was. I was also excited to see one of my very good friends Roscoe, who I went to high school with. He just graduated from a college in the Tampa area and decided to come show your boy some love. Thanks for the support my dude!
So this was my second crack at the 400 hurdles this year and it was a success. I ended up coming in 2nd with a season best performance. The race was pretty positive all in all, so I have no regrets or complaints. I ended up getting lane 6 and took over the stagger on the two outside guys by 150 so I didn't see anyone for another 200 meters. It was only then when I started to notice the fatigue and lost the race at the last hurdle. Of course as an athlete you always have things to get better at so here goes...
I know I need to work on my hurdling. Not so much form, but getting over or clearing the hurdle faster. I felt like my trail leg was dragging on a few of them. I also have to keep in mind at the end of the race that I need to get my knees UP when Im tired so I won't have to worry about stuttering over the final 2 hurdles. I felt like I was getting in too much of a rhythm about halfway through, but my coach prompted me that 400H races require rhythm. I felt so patterened that I wasn't speeding up and thats my only concern as it relates to that. I REALLY need to work on my form for my opposite (recessive) leg because it used to look as good as my dominant leg, but my coach doesn't want me to focus so much on small things in the race at this point in time; we're just trying to set the race up so that I can run at a fast and comfortable pace. With less emphasis on the opposite leg when it comes time to use it, I look halfway out of control.
As you can see an athletes work is never finished even if you run more than a second faster than your previous race, lmbo!
Just earlier this week my coach explained the thinking pattern of a 400/400H runner and how they handle their race, which is one thing I believe helped me today. Funny thing is that the day before he told me about it I prayed for a way to be more aggressive and confident in my race...prayer changes things yall. This is my rookie year and has shown to more and more to be a learning year for me. With all the knowledge and wisdom my teammates are passing down Im trying to get an understanding of how or when it applies to me and the way to use their advice as a weapon. This is the life...of a professional!
The meet was a twilight meet at USF in Tampa, FL. This was the first time on the South Florida campus and I must say that I was impressed. The school looked brand new with a spacious campus and was filled with interesting people. I definitely have to give them two thumps up for their sports facilities. The track was a specialized surface (forget the name) but was the same surface as the track in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The stadium was very nice and with a fast track like theirs you can imagine how excited I was. I was also excited to see one of my very good friends Roscoe, who I went to high school with. He just graduated from a college in the Tampa area and decided to come show your boy some love. Thanks for the support my dude!
So this was my second crack at the 400 hurdles this year and it was a success. I ended up coming in 2nd with a season best performance. The race was pretty positive all in all, so I have no regrets or complaints. I ended up getting lane 6 and took over the stagger on the two outside guys by 150 so I didn't see anyone for another 200 meters. It was only then when I started to notice the fatigue and lost the race at the last hurdle. Of course as an athlete you always have things to get better at so here goes...
I know I need to work on my hurdling. Not so much form, but getting over or clearing the hurdle faster. I felt like my trail leg was dragging on a few of them. I also have to keep in mind at the end of the race that I need to get my knees UP when Im tired so I won't have to worry about stuttering over the final 2 hurdles. I felt like I was getting in too much of a rhythm about halfway through, but my coach prompted me that 400H races require rhythm. I felt so patterened that I wasn't speeding up and thats my only concern as it relates to that. I REALLY need to work on my form for my opposite (recessive) leg because it used to look as good as my dominant leg, but my coach doesn't want me to focus so much on small things in the race at this point in time; we're just trying to set the race up so that I can run at a fast and comfortable pace. With less emphasis on the opposite leg when it comes time to use it, I look halfway out of control.
As you can see an athletes work is never finished even if you run more than a second faster than your previous race, lmbo!
Just earlier this week my coach explained the thinking pattern of a 400/400H runner and how they handle their race, which is one thing I believe helped me today. Funny thing is that the day before he told me about it I prayed for a way to be more aggressive and confident in my race...prayer changes things yall. This is my rookie year and has shown to more and more to be a learning year for me. With all the knowledge and wisdom my teammates are passing down Im trying to get an understanding of how or when it applies to me and the way to use their advice as a weapon. This is the life...of a professional!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
1st Race
Today was my first race in the chosen event of specialization (400H), and it ended in victory. I felt pretty good going into the race today and didn't really have any issues to express, pre-race at least. Was not to thrilled about the time, but again as an opener I was happy with the race consistency.
I would say I had a fairly good reaction to the gun and got out at a decent pace (not fast though). I could use some more aggression on the first 3 hurdles to set the race up speed-wise, but my steps were on all the way until H7. I cruised down the back stretch and set up for the next curve. I did well going in, focusing on my steps but studdered @ hurdle 7 where I started to feel a little fatigue, and I ended up switching legs also. I had my mind made up I would switch at 7, but coming towards it I may have actually been on, which caused the hesitation. I'll have to watch the film to get a verdict on that. After 7 my form broke down over the hurdles and was not where I wanted it, but I managed to go over with my natural leg the rest of the race and finish strong. I didn't feel out of shape or extremely tired so that tells me Im in good shape with MUCH more to burn in the race.
It was about 88 degrees out under the FL sun which was near a 95 temperature on the track. I can't say I felt much wind during the race, but I wasn't really concentrating on that anyways, so who knows. All in all a solid effort with some positive things to take from it, but also a lot of things I can look forward to fixing. Next meet UCF on Thurs. May 6th...This is the life in the hurdle lane
I would say I had a fairly good reaction to the gun and got out at a decent pace (not fast though). I could use some more aggression on the first 3 hurdles to set the race up speed-wise, but my steps were on all the way until H7. I cruised down the back stretch and set up for the next curve. I did well going in, focusing on my steps but studdered @ hurdle 7 where I started to feel a little fatigue, and I ended up switching legs also. I had my mind made up I would switch at 7, but coming towards it I may have actually been on, which caused the hesitation. I'll have to watch the film to get a verdict on that. After 7 my form broke down over the hurdles and was not where I wanted it, but I managed to go over with my natural leg the rest of the race and finish strong. I didn't feel out of shape or extremely tired so that tells me Im in good shape with MUCH more to burn in the race.
It was about 88 degrees out under the FL sun which was near a 95 temperature on the track. I can't say I felt much wind during the race, but I wasn't really concentrating on that anyways, so who knows. All in all a solid effort with some positive things to take from it, but also a lot of things I can look forward to fixing. Next meet UCF on Thurs. May 6th...This is the life in the hurdle lane
Friday, April 30, 2010
Track and Field
As a pro track athlete in the US it is almost 3 or 4 times harder than most other sports here. We don’t get as much publicity and hype as sports such as basketball, football, or baseball so you really cannot compare even Usain Bolt (currently the most publicized T&F athlete) of our sport to a star in another “traditional American sport”. The bottom line is that Americans are not that interested in watching a 2 hour track meet on TV where people run endlessly around an oval. Most people, I would say, are ignorant of a majority of the track and field events and don’t find it all that exciting. However, as all track athletes know every 4 years the US get that Olympic fever and decide to strongly support the “long winded” sport. I suppose that some Americans get their fill of Track excitement in Olympic years and that it lasts a whopping 4 years until the next go round, but maybe there's hope!
The truth is that most people like watching track races and some specific athletes, but there just isn’t enough media on the sport for fans to stay in the fast lane. There are only a handful of meets shown on TV here in the US, and these meets you have to search for in order to find. You don’t normally see track meets like the USA Visa Campionship Series heavily advertised on sports centerfor like other sports. In fact, I can only recall one short appearance from a track highlight on the ESPN top 10 list: Maurice Green when he creatively celebrated his 100m win by extinguishing his spikes out in California. I feel like people are not really connecting with track athletes for some reason. Perhaps they don’t know enough about the athletes, our fun-loving personalities, or demanding schedules, and feel like they can’t relate. Maybe there aren't enough celebrations and tauntings to make it interesting, or perhaps not enough physical contact or close calls. We do have the occasional photo finishes that can boost fire from those adrenal glands!! Well…maybe not, but that explosive competitive spirit in other sports is in every race as runners surpass complete physical exhaustion and their breaking points to win races and shatter records.
Those seasonal fans who would actually consider watching a track meet just don’t know when or where to check out information on upcoming meets. Others think that the only track event that there is, is the Olympics. I can’t tell you how many people think that track athletes train meticulously throughout four years to have one shot at a chance for the Olympics. This is so far from the truth. Track has seasons just like any other sport. Depending on your event you may have many seasons verses a primary one and done. For example runners can choose to compete in cross country (yes even as pros, lol), Indoor track, and outdoor track. Indoor season for professional athletes tends to start mid January and finish up in early March. Outdoor season typically starts in late March, and finishes in September with a few specialized meets in October. Pro athletes compete at college meets, various meets around the country allowing unattached athlete participation, and professional invitation meets. The US invite meets are sponsored and feature some of the most known track athletes. You can usually find a meet and/or media schedule for the US meets on www.usatf.org. With the lack of fan support US athletes are forced to travel the world for meets due to the limited number of meets here. This is why you may have heard about track athletes flying to Europe, S. America, Asia, or the Caribbean to compete. In Europe, downer sports in the US such as Track and soccer, offer a huge fan base and normally house 50,000+ fans at each meet. It’s no surprise that runners would travel overseas to compete since the fans are there, and they bring the money in.
Interested in learning more about the sport, or following up on meets, athletes, and other track events see these additional websites: www.trackandfieldnews.com, www.iaaf.org, and www.dystatelite.com (for high schoolers)
This is the life of a track athlete.
The truth is that most people like watching track races and some specific athletes, but there just isn’t enough media on the sport for fans to stay in the fast lane. There are only a handful of meets shown on TV here in the US, and these meets you have to search for in order to find. You don’t normally see track meets like the USA Visa Campionship Series heavily advertised on sports centerfor like other sports. In fact, I can only recall one short appearance from a track highlight on the ESPN top 10 list: Maurice Green when he creatively celebrated his 100m win by extinguishing his spikes out in California. I feel like people are not really connecting with track athletes for some reason. Perhaps they don’t know enough about the athletes, our fun-loving personalities, or demanding schedules, and feel like they can’t relate. Maybe there aren't enough celebrations and tauntings to make it interesting, or perhaps not enough physical contact or close calls. We do have the occasional photo finishes that can boost fire from those adrenal glands!! Well…maybe not, but that explosive competitive spirit in other sports is in every race as runners surpass complete physical exhaustion and their breaking points to win races and shatter records.
Those seasonal fans who would actually consider watching a track meet just don’t know when or where to check out information on upcoming meets. Others think that the only track event that there is, is the Olympics. I can’t tell you how many people think that track athletes train meticulously throughout four years to have one shot at a chance for the Olympics. This is so far from the truth. Track has seasons just like any other sport. Depending on your event you may have many seasons verses a primary one and done. For example runners can choose to compete in cross country (yes even as pros, lol), Indoor track, and outdoor track. Indoor season for professional athletes tends to start mid January and finish up in early March. Outdoor season typically starts in late March, and finishes in September with a few specialized meets in October. Pro athletes compete at college meets, various meets around the country allowing unattached athlete participation, and professional invitation meets. The US invite meets are sponsored and feature some of the most known track athletes. You can usually find a meet and/or media schedule for the US meets on www.usatf.org. With the lack of fan support US athletes are forced to travel the world for meets due to the limited number of meets here. This is why you may have heard about track athletes flying to Europe, S. America, Asia, or the Caribbean to compete. In Europe, downer sports in the US such as Track and soccer, offer a huge fan base and normally house 50,000+ fans at each meet. It’s no surprise that runners would travel overseas to compete since the fans are there, and they bring the money in.
Interested in learning more about the sport, or following up on meets, athletes, and other track events see these additional websites: www.trackandfieldnews.com, www.iaaf.org, and www.dystatelite.com (for high schoolers)
This is the life of a track athlete.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Training continued
Since the last meet I've been on a steady yet intense training schedule. I haven't been able to work back into the weight room like the weeks prior to our first meet, but we have been able to put in a little work. My intervals have jumped back up and have been really taking it to me! The workout Tuesday showed that Im definitely not out of shape, Im just missing the competition factor.
I had to sprint a total of 2000 meters and faired pretty well. My fitness is well and my speed is alright right now, but we just finished our first week of getting over hurdles. Of course, being the first day back over hurdles I was struggling to find my steps for the 400H and getting my timing back down. Friday was a really technical day on the blocks, but it was exactly what I needed to hear. Apparently, a lot of what I thought I knew about blocks was probably not the best information out there. Since my coach was one of the best starters in the sport it would probably be wise to throw out all the old stuff and input his technique for blockwork. Blocks are one of the most important part of any sprinters race from the 100 to the short hurdles to the 400, and that is something that I'll definitely be focusing on also.
Since I've decided to train for the next two weeks going into the Bahamas meet I won't be running this weekend with the team at Florida. Nonetheless I've been getting a lot of flack from my team about not running. They all said that I was on a good track to drop a much faster time than my 2 early races. They said that sometimes you need to race yourself into shape. I agree with them about running yourself into shape, but I can also get into good shape by the strenuous training Coach Mitchell has been putting me through as well. For me I think one of the reasons I could have done good by racing this weekend is to get a faster time (I was guaranteed to drop) and to elevate my confidence level in the 400 races.
All the more, my choice to train through the next two weeks comes at the news of beginning hurdle practices again. I wanted to be able to seriously take a look at where I am in the hurdles and what I need to focus on without having to back the training off because of a track meet. All in all Im winning either way...choices and results.
I had to sprint a total of 2000 meters and faired pretty well. My fitness is well and my speed is alright right now, but we just finished our first week of getting over hurdles. Of course, being the first day back over hurdles I was struggling to find my steps for the 400H and getting my timing back down. Friday was a really technical day on the blocks, but it was exactly what I needed to hear. Apparently, a lot of what I thought I knew about blocks was probably not the best information out there. Since my coach was one of the best starters in the sport it would probably be wise to throw out all the old stuff and input his technique for blockwork. Blocks are one of the most important part of any sprinters race from the 100 to the short hurdles to the 400, and that is something that I'll definitely be focusing on also.
Since I've decided to train for the next two weeks going into the Bahamas meet I won't be running this weekend with the team at Florida. Nonetheless I've been getting a lot of flack from my team about not running. They all said that I was on a good track to drop a much faster time than my 2 early races. They said that sometimes you need to race yourself into shape. I agree with them about running yourself into shape, but I can also get into good shape by the strenuous training Coach Mitchell has been putting me through as well. For me I think one of the reasons I could have done good by racing this weekend is to get a faster time (I was guaranteed to drop) and to elevate my confidence level in the 400 races.
All the more, my choice to train through the next two weeks comes at the news of beginning hurdle practices again. I wanted to be able to seriously take a look at where I am in the hurdles and what I need to focus on without having to back the training off because of a track meet. All in all Im winning either way...choices and results.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Miami
Well Miami was definitely an experience not to be forgotten. I don't know if it was all the excitement from being there for the "first" time, being able to chat it up with family members and learn some more about our past, breaking bread with one of my old high school coaches and a former teammate from back in the day.
I would say its a combo of all of that. I will tell you that in Miami I saw the most luxury and exotic sport cars (outside of the auto show) in one place at the same time, lol. Ferrari's, Lambo's, my Audi R8, Aston Martin, Bentley, Rolls Royce, Range Rover, BMW, Mercedes, the list goes on. As you know Im a huge car guy and I was absolutely in love down there.
Miami is a real city. It has a large population, a big downtown, a lot of events and festivals all the time, a myriad of ethnicities (a personal favorite), great places to hang out and eat, and of course an amazing beach area. Even though I didn't grow up IN a city I have always been drawn by them. Orlando is a cool place to visit and what not, but not my kind of "city".
Another reason I enjoyed my time there so much is because I stayed with family and had a chance to get to know some of them a lot better. I love the thought of reconnecting and staying in contact with family. Some of the best times are those when you sit and listen to the old folks talk about their stories and how things used to be back then. Its just like reading a good mystery or suspense book, just cant leave it alone for too long.
It was too bad that no one saw me run because of Miami's CRAZY traffic, but they seemed a bit more upset than I. Our relay team was either unwilling or unable to run so I ended up traveling 240 miles for less than 50 seconds, lmbo. I love my job! I did run much better than last week and felt like I was supposed to feel during and after the 400. Im still on the cusp of running fast, and I know how I can do it I just have to pull it out of myself. I kept up my streak of "not getting out" in the open 400, which is the one major key to having a successful race. If anyone has any tips for 400 starts please feel free to jot down a comment. Its funny that I haven't really had such a problem with starting fast in the 400 Hurdles, its just the open 4; weird huh?
Going forward coach said we're back on track to start getting work in over hurdles, YESS! Im not scheduled to run again until May 1 in the Bahamas, heeey. Instead I have decided to really try to get my sprint shape under control and focus on getting back on the hurdles. Im thinking that my first hurdle (test) race won't be until May 6th in Orlando, but we'll see how the training progresses. This...is my life
I would say its a combo of all of that. I will tell you that in Miami I saw the most luxury and exotic sport cars (outside of the auto show) in one place at the same time, lol. Ferrari's, Lambo's, my Audi R8, Aston Martin, Bentley, Rolls Royce, Range Rover, BMW, Mercedes, the list goes on. As you know Im a huge car guy and I was absolutely in love down there.
Miami is a real city. It has a large population, a big downtown, a lot of events and festivals all the time, a myriad of ethnicities (a personal favorite), great places to hang out and eat, and of course an amazing beach area. Even though I didn't grow up IN a city I have always been drawn by them. Orlando is a cool place to visit and what not, but not my kind of "city".
Another reason I enjoyed my time there so much is because I stayed with family and had a chance to get to know some of them a lot better. I love the thought of reconnecting and staying in contact with family. Some of the best times are those when you sit and listen to the old folks talk about their stories and how things used to be back then. Its just like reading a good mystery or suspense book, just cant leave it alone for too long.
It was too bad that no one saw me run because of Miami's CRAZY traffic, but they seemed a bit more upset than I. Our relay team was either unwilling or unable to run so I ended up traveling 240 miles for less than 50 seconds, lmbo. I love my job! I did run much better than last week and felt like I was supposed to feel during and after the 400. Im still on the cusp of running fast, and I know how I can do it I just have to pull it out of myself. I kept up my streak of "not getting out" in the open 400, which is the one major key to having a successful race. If anyone has any tips for 400 starts please feel free to jot down a comment. Its funny that I haven't really had such a problem with starting fast in the 400 Hurdles, its just the open 4; weird huh?
Going forward coach said we're back on track to start getting work in over hurdles, YESS! Im not scheduled to run again until May 1 in the Bahamas, heeey. Instead I have decided to really try to get my sprint shape under control and focus on getting back on the hurdles. Im thinking that my first hurdle (test) race won't be until May 6th in Orlando, but we'll see how the training progresses. This...is my life
Friday, April 9, 2010
Round 2
After a week of training I've made the trip down south to run at the University of Miami tomorrow. Training was a little surprising this week whereby the workouts went back to conditioning aspects. I ended up running some longer workouts and did a good job of staying on pace through them, and feeling pretty well afterwards too. I thought from my performance in the open 400 last week showed that I was out of shape, but my body has said otherwise. I just wasn't physically prepared for that meet. I have a better idea of how to handle this meet, and am expecting MUCH improvement, lol.
Thursday also marked the 2nd day that I've practiced hurdles since being out for several weeks. Im always soo excited to get over some hurdles again. There is just something about them that keeps you on the track, because those of you who have run before KNOW that sometimes track workouts make you want to throw in the towel. Anyways I just did a few 150s over the hurdles at a nice and easy pace to get the body comfortable with the technique again. I can't wait until Im in shape to run the hurdles, Im expecting good things early on.
You know what is also funny is that as a hurdler you are considered one of the most versatile competitors in athletics. Long hurdlers can usually run a decent time in the 800, fast time in the 400, and a decent time in the 200. Short hurdlers are very gifted in the fact that they can run full speed at 10 barriers 42" tall and adjust themselves and their foot speed in between if any circumstancial events occur in the race (ie. someone falls, knocks your hurdle down, spikes you, or my favorite, is throwing bows over top of each hurdles). It is not very uncommon that some hurdles are only good at hurdling! Go figure. Take myself for example; I can run 13 seconds in the 110 hurdles, but can barely break 10.7 in the 100. I have also had a problem in the past with running the open 400. Lets just say that given a chance I between the two 400 races I would choose the hurdles every time. Judging from my race last week there are still a few kinks that Im working out in the open 400, and my teammate reminded me today at the pre-meet warm up today at the track. "Don't have no big entourage (family coming to watch) if you don't plan on running well".
Well to say the least I suppose I'll have to run the race of my life tomorrow. This is the life of an athlete.
Thursday also marked the 2nd day that I've practiced hurdles since being out for several weeks. Im always soo excited to get over some hurdles again. There is just something about them that keeps you on the track, because those of you who have run before KNOW that sometimes track workouts make you want to throw in the towel. Anyways I just did a few 150s over the hurdles at a nice and easy pace to get the body comfortable with the technique again. I can't wait until Im in shape to run the hurdles, Im expecting good things early on.
You know what is also funny is that as a hurdler you are considered one of the most versatile competitors in athletics. Long hurdlers can usually run a decent time in the 800, fast time in the 400, and a decent time in the 200. Short hurdlers are very gifted in the fact that they can run full speed at 10 barriers 42" tall and adjust themselves and their foot speed in between if any circumstancial events occur in the race (ie. someone falls, knocks your hurdle down, spikes you, or my favorite, is throwing bows over top of each hurdles). It is not very uncommon that some hurdles are only good at hurdling! Go figure. Take myself for example; I can run 13 seconds in the 110 hurdles, but can barely break 10.7 in the 100. I have also had a problem in the past with running the open 400. Lets just say that given a chance I between the two 400 races I would choose the hurdles every time. Judging from my race last week there are still a few kinks that Im working out in the open 400, and my teammate reminded me today at the pre-meet warm up today at the track. "Don't have no big entourage (family coming to watch) if you don't plan on running well".
Well to say the least I suppose I'll have to run the race of my life tomorrow. This is the life of an athlete.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Recap
So the FL relays went halfway decent for the Star Athletics team. We had a lot of runners best their season openers, others weren't so fortunate, but we all took away from it stuff that will help out our training and upcoming races.
I thought it was pretty exciting being my first meet competing as a "professional" or developmental athlete as some say. Although the same teams I've raced in the years past were there and the same pros I've seen over time were at the meet, it felt different for me. Primarily because it was my first meet competing for almost a full year, and the calibur of athletes there was a lot higher than Ive been up against for opening meets the past few years.
The first day was a scorcher, and the sun was out with a vengence on the athletes. It was about 85 and humid, which are not the greatest conditions to run in, but it is good it was hot. We started off right with the women's hurdles finishing in positions 2, 3, and 8. Our two forerunners both had nice races, resulting in great season openers. Next up were our men high hurdlers, one of which finished 3rd competing near his PR while our other was left scrambling for answers and what positive aspects he could salvage from his race. Not to be mistaken though, he came back and ran a solid 13.3 in the hurdle relay the next day to help close out the win.
Following were our male and female 100m runners who both ran season opener bests and had a great lot to show for their hard work over the past 5 months. Afterwards was my event...open 400m Dash! Long story short I was unprepared and ran REALLY slow! First race jitters among other mistakes led me straight to the tail end of competitors. I didn't feel that nervous and I felt like I was in shape, but the race said something different. I usually have a good reaction to the gun, but can definitely work on my drive phase all the way off the first turn. I felt like I didn't have any turnover and by the time I hit the back stretch I found myself behind and exerting way too much energy just to keep up. By the 200 split I was in a good position to make a move if I would have had anything left in the tank. I tied up pretty badly and died with about 120 to go, which is strange for me since I usually don't die so to speak. My finish is usually the strongest part of my race. Unfortunately not today though. Its all good though I just had to readjust and come back in the 4x400 relay which ended up MUCH better than the open.
There were numerous reasons compiled which led to my opening race demise. For example, I worked a 6 hour shift Thursday until 11pm, (1) was on my feet late and the day before the meet) came home hit the sack and was back up a little before 7am. 2)didn't get enough sleep. I don't know what I was thinking, but I ate what seemed wouldn't even feed a small dog for breakfast. 3)didn't eat enough to acquire enough energy to compensate for the duration of the day in the sun until my run time. Then I drove an hour and a half in the car to the meet to sit around in the heat (instead of going somewhere cool to relax) until it was time to warm up.
Thankfully the next day was our relay team ended up running 3:10 in the 4x400 with my 47 split. I prepared for this race much better and had just enough nerves to help get me around the track in a solid time to make up for the open race. Sadly, people don't pay attention to splits and it surly won't be looked at over my open race, but I race again next week in Miami. I've got my pre-race plan ready to put into action so Im expecting a much better open race.
You can catch all of the action on www.Flotrack.org for the results and actual race videos.
I thought it was pretty exciting being my first meet competing as a "professional" or developmental athlete as some say. Although the same teams I've raced in the years past were there and the same pros I've seen over time were at the meet, it felt different for me. Primarily because it was my first meet competing for almost a full year, and the calibur of athletes there was a lot higher than Ive been up against for opening meets the past few years.
The first day was a scorcher, and the sun was out with a vengence on the athletes. It was about 85 and humid, which are not the greatest conditions to run in, but it is good it was hot. We started off right with the women's hurdles finishing in positions 2, 3, and 8. Our two forerunners both had nice races, resulting in great season openers. Next up were our men high hurdlers, one of which finished 3rd competing near his PR while our other was left scrambling for answers and what positive aspects he could salvage from his race. Not to be mistaken though, he came back and ran a solid 13.3 in the hurdle relay the next day to help close out the win.
Following were our male and female 100m runners who both ran season opener bests and had a great lot to show for their hard work over the past 5 months. Afterwards was my event...open 400m Dash! Long story short I was unprepared and ran REALLY slow! First race jitters among other mistakes led me straight to the tail end of competitors. I didn't feel that nervous and I felt like I was in shape, but the race said something different. I usually have a good reaction to the gun, but can definitely work on my drive phase all the way off the first turn. I felt like I didn't have any turnover and by the time I hit the back stretch I found myself behind and exerting way too much energy just to keep up. By the 200 split I was in a good position to make a move if I would have had anything left in the tank. I tied up pretty badly and died with about 120 to go, which is strange for me since I usually don't die so to speak. My finish is usually the strongest part of my race. Unfortunately not today though. Its all good though I just had to readjust and come back in the 4x400 relay which ended up MUCH better than the open.
There were numerous reasons compiled which led to my opening race demise. For example, I worked a 6 hour shift Thursday until 11pm, (1) was on my feet late and the day before the meet) came home hit the sack and was back up a little before 7am. 2)didn't get enough sleep. I don't know what I was thinking, but I ate what seemed wouldn't even feed a small dog for breakfast. 3)didn't eat enough to acquire enough energy to compensate for the duration of the day in the sun until my run time. Then I drove an hour and a half in the car to the meet to sit around in the heat (instead of going somewhere cool to relax) until it was time to warm up.
Thankfully the next day was our relay team ended up running 3:10 in the 4x400 with my 47 split. I prepared for this race much better and had just enough nerves to help get me around the track in a solid time to make up for the open race. Sadly, people don't pay attention to splits and it surly won't be looked at over my open race, but I race again next week in Miami. I've got my pre-race plan ready to put into action so Im expecting a much better open race.
You can catch all of the action on www.Flotrack.org for the results and actual race videos.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Florida Relays
Its here folks. The gun will go off tomorrow at around noon to kick off the FL Relays. On the line is the "state championships" for the respective area teams. Its looking like the weather is going to be amazing (81 degrees and sunny). Hopefully all the athletes have been hydrating throughout the week, so we don't have to postpone anything due to heat exhaustion. Hey, I've seen it happen before...pretty crazy!
The Star Athletics team (ie. my training camp) looked well prepared and had a great practice to close the week out going into the meet. I felt alive and well, lol, and am looking forward to a successful weekend all in all. For me this meet is a large one only in the sense that I havent competed in a little less than a year and have been awaiting my debut. Im ready to test out the legs and get a feel for the race while I rev my competitive juices. The race strategy that we're going for is to get out hard and keep burning it up. It is more of a race to determine where my practices will go from here.
Im also looking forward to seeing the mens 110 Hurdles in action, our womens hurdlers, and of course I have to keep tabs on my 400H event, so that should be interesting. Open events are tomorrow on Friday and all relays will go off Sat afternoon. I'll let everyone know how the meet finished up over the next few days. As for now I've gotta pack and cook dinner before I go into work for a few hours. As important as track is right now...I still have to pay the bills. This is the life of a hard worker.
The Star Athletics team (ie. my training camp) looked well prepared and had a great practice to close the week out going into the meet. I felt alive and well, lol, and am looking forward to a successful weekend all in all. For me this meet is a large one only in the sense that I havent competed in a little less than a year and have been awaiting my debut. Im ready to test out the legs and get a feel for the race while I rev my competitive juices. The race strategy that we're going for is to get out hard and keep burning it up. It is more of a race to determine where my practices will go from here.
Im also looking forward to seeing the mens 110 Hurdles in action, our womens hurdlers, and of course I have to keep tabs on my 400H event, so that should be interesting. Open events are tomorrow on Friday and all relays will go off Sat afternoon. I'll let everyone know how the meet finished up over the next few days. As for now I've gotta pack and cook dinner before I go into work for a few hours. As important as track is right now...I still have to pay the bills. This is the life of a hard worker.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Sports Performance, Part II
Ok, lets just jump right in. Some things to help you train better during workouts are protein solids or shake if you like, good breakfast (usually whatever your stomach/body can handle), water (a little that morning or if you practice later in the day drinking a good amount of water throughout the day.
The rule for drinking water is that the water you drink today is for helping you tomorrow. Water will help hydrate your body the day you are drinking it, but you will need to replenish most of it when you wake up in the morning. Our bodies are on recovery and repair mode when we sleep; the body is using the least amount of energy, the metabolism slows down, and the nutrients, water and vitamins that you are digesting goes throughout your body to repair your muscles, tissues and bones. You can think of your body as a business that closes when you go to sleep and your body sends its "overnight cleaning crew" to repair and nourish itself so that you will be ready for your day in the morning.
Most people don't like to eat a whole breakfast prior to a workout so a protein bar or shake will suffice for those who work out in the morning. If you work out later in the day it would be wise to have a nice sized breakfast to help keep your body going until the work out. Most of the bars and shakes available supply your body with a decent amount of protein to help your muscles recover during a workout a little faster. They may also include other substances like vitamins, natural herbs, or bcaa's (Branched chain amino acids). These are those amino acids that help your body during intense physical activity and include some non-essential and essential aminos. A shake is going to be a powder base to be mixed with either water or juice. This will get into your system faster than a bar will, since it will not have to digest as much and will benefit your body if you need energy quickly. A bar would be considered a slow release energy booster/enhancer because your body has to digest the material and then get it into your bloodstream which takes longer than liquids.
During practice it is best to drink a sports drink, sports gel, or other electrolyte supplement packs so that the body doesn't lose too much of its fuel to where the body starts to break down. You can vascilate with your sports drink and water, but the key is to stay hydrated so you won't cramp. To get the max edge some people drink sports shakes that replenish more than just electrolytes, but supplies you with aminos and protein so the body breaks down slower giving the person seemingly more endurance and power. I would recommend some, but I don't want to take away from their advertising.
If you are a persons that usually gets cramps pretty easy you probably want to eat a banana and drink a glass of salt water or have something with a decent amount of sodium in it prior to workouts. Gatorade and other sports drinks will help reduce cramp incidents also because it replenishes those electrolytes. A cramp is simply when you body does not have enough of those electric impulses in your nervous system to allow your muscles to function and as a result causes a painful involuntary contraction that can last for several minutes. Sodium (Na) is an element used in the body to charge the bodys muscles and nerves. It helps the signals from the brain to the nerves work by creating electric impulses that communicate to the muscles when to lift, push, or move. Potassium (K) is an element that is used in the body to convert sugar into glycogen which, when depleted cause your body to feel the lactate building up during intense runs. K and Na are both two of the electrolytes and is excreted from the body through sweat and as you can see need to be replenished.
After practice it is good to get in an ice tub when your muscles are sore. When they are heavy and tight I would suggest a hot bath. Also some things that will help your body recover are choco milk, protein shakes, after workout supplements like glutamine, apples, other fresh fruit. Of course you also want to continue to drink water to prep for your next day.
Occasional check-ups with a massage and physical therapist, trainer, or chiropractor will also help keep your body in tip top shape to continue intense training. These specialists help to relieve tension in muscles, keep them limber, and to verify that all muscles are working properly and in line together. A lot of times an people may have injury problems because their body is out of line which can cause stress on other areas of the body, eventually affect the muscle mobility and performance. Some people are against chiro because they do so much with rearranging you bones and they feel there are more natural ways to get the same things done. Im indifferent thus far...being that I've never gotten massages or visited chiro prior to this rookie year of mine as a professional.
~This is the life of a student of his profession~
The rule for drinking water is that the water you drink today is for helping you tomorrow. Water will help hydrate your body the day you are drinking it, but you will need to replenish most of it when you wake up in the morning. Our bodies are on recovery and repair mode when we sleep; the body is using the least amount of energy, the metabolism slows down, and the nutrients, water and vitamins that you are digesting goes throughout your body to repair your muscles, tissues and bones. You can think of your body as a business that closes when you go to sleep and your body sends its "overnight cleaning crew" to repair and nourish itself so that you will be ready for your day in the morning.
Most people don't like to eat a whole breakfast prior to a workout so a protein bar or shake will suffice for those who work out in the morning. If you work out later in the day it would be wise to have a nice sized breakfast to help keep your body going until the work out. Most of the bars and shakes available supply your body with a decent amount of protein to help your muscles recover during a workout a little faster. They may also include other substances like vitamins, natural herbs, or bcaa's (Branched chain amino acids). These are those amino acids that help your body during intense physical activity and include some non-essential and essential aminos. A shake is going to be a powder base to be mixed with either water or juice. This will get into your system faster than a bar will, since it will not have to digest as much and will benefit your body if you need energy quickly. A bar would be considered a slow release energy booster/enhancer because your body has to digest the material and then get it into your bloodstream which takes longer than liquids.
During practice it is best to drink a sports drink, sports gel, or other electrolyte supplement packs so that the body doesn't lose too much of its fuel to where the body starts to break down. You can vascilate with your sports drink and water, but the key is to stay hydrated so you won't cramp. To get the max edge some people drink sports shakes that replenish more than just electrolytes, but supplies you with aminos and protein so the body breaks down slower giving the person seemingly more endurance and power. I would recommend some, but I don't want to take away from their advertising.
If you are a persons that usually gets cramps pretty easy you probably want to eat a banana and drink a glass of salt water or have something with a decent amount of sodium in it prior to workouts. Gatorade and other sports drinks will help reduce cramp incidents also because it replenishes those electrolytes. A cramp is simply when you body does not have enough of those electric impulses in your nervous system to allow your muscles to function and as a result causes a painful involuntary contraction that can last for several minutes. Sodium (Na) is an element used in the body to charge the bodys muscles and nerves. It helps the signals from the brain to the nerves work by creating electric impulses that communicate to the muscles when to lift, push, or move. Potassium (K) is an element that is used in the body to convert sugar into glycogen which, when depleted cause your body to feel the lactate building up during intense runs. K and Na are both two of the electrolytes and is excreted from the body through sweat and as you can see need to be replenished.
After practice it is good to get in an ice tub when your muscles are sore. When they are heavy and tight I would suggest a hot bath. Also some things that will help your body recover are choco milk, protein shakes, after workout supplements like glutamine, apples, other fresh fruit. Of course you also want to continue to drink water to prep for your next day.
Occasional check-ups with a massage and physical therapist, trainer, or chiropractor will also help keep your body in tip top shape to continue intense training. These specialists help to relieve tension in muscles, keep them limber, and to verify that all muscles are working properly and in line together. A lot of times an people may have injury problems because their body is out of line which can cause stress on other areas of the body, eventually affect the muscle mobility and performance. Some people are against chiro because they do so much with rearranging you bones and they feel there are more natural ways to get the same things done. Im indifferent thus far...being that I've never gotten massages or visited chiro prior to this rookie year of mine as a professional.
~This is the life of a student of his profession~
Thursday, March 18, 2010
The Hype!
The other day our team was in the weight room stretching and doing abs as we normally do at the end of our workouts, and coach brought up an exciting topic: Florida Relays. Last year seemed to be pretty good for the Star Athletics team. Our women's hurdle relay came in first and broke a record (think it was for the stadium?). Our guys had a fair showing with a few PR's and some decent times in the sprinting events. Apparently, this year will be the biggest it has ever been. The meet has become renowned as a meet where people come to get a fast start to their outdoor season. I mean with all the competition and early season competitive juices flowing you have no choice but to run fast.
Unfortunately, I've never been to the FL Relays but I hear it is one of those 'you need to be here' meets. Tons of competitors show up from recognized colleges around the country accompanied by many outstanding professional runners. Our womens hurdle team will be defending their title as the best hurdlers in FL and our men 110 hurdlers also are out to prove themselves in their respective relay. There will be a lot of pro teams present from around FL among elsewhere, but everyone is suiting up to be the best in the state, which is a pretty nice title to have considering the state of FL is an eminent powerhouse for track and field.
Needless to say Im excited to finally take part in this meet and to try to claim a respectable spot in it's history books. Although Im not running my natural event (400H) I will be competing in the 4x400 relay and possibly the open 400. About 2 weeks and counting until showtime. Lets get it! The life of a competitor
Unfortunately, I've never been to the FL Relays but I hear it is one of those 'you need to be here' meets. Tons of competitors show up from recognized colleges around the country accompanied by many outstanding professional runners. Our womens hurdle team will be defending their title as the best hurdlers in FL and our men 110 hurdlers also are out to prove themselves in their respective relay. There will be a lot of pro teams present from around FL among elsewhere, but everyone is suiting up to be the best in the state, which is a pretty nice title to have considering the state of FL is an eminent powerhouse for track and field.
Needless to say Im excited to finally take part in this meet and to try to claim a respectable spot in it's history books. Although Im not running my natural event (400H) I will be competing in the 4x400 relay and possibly the open 400. About 2 weeks and counting until showtime. Lets get it! The life of a competitor
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Sports Performance
Alright, I've mustered up enough information to hopefully help those who are interested in sports nutrition. It has long since been a struggle for athletes to find what makes them tick. In this case referring to what foods, supplements, and vitamins to take to help give them the best overall edge. There are many spectulative techniques to this enigma, but the truth is that each athlete is different. You as an athlete have to find the right mix for your specific performance booster either pre-race or just in daily workouts.
Some people resort to a techniques such as carbo-loading (eating lots of pasta, grains, and bread a few days prior to competition), excessive water intake (drinking more than usual water often a few days before a meet), heat and hot tubs (to release/relax the muscles), or a number of other ways.
-Carbo loading is primarily used for distance runners to increase their carbohydrate levels. I wouldn't recommend any very large (or overly muscular) people try this. Carbs are the first source of energy that the body uses and as longer duration runners need more energy they carb load in efforts to house a backup supply of their physical fuel.
-I would highly discourage anyone from doing the excessive water. You should already be drinking enough water to cool and replenish your body on a daily basis. Drinking an immense amount of water a few days out from a meet is bad because your body is overflooded and goes into a cleaning mechanism whereby it deminishes tons of water from your system, often more than you want which leaves you dehydrated.
-I have heard different things about hot tubs and pools. For the everyday person he/she may jump in the hot tub to relax or soothe the muscles, but I've heard that it can loosen up your muscles to a point where they are flat, and have lost the power and longevity you worked so hard putting in them the week prior. Pools are a little different in that the cool water can usually soak into your pores and allow you legs to feel heavy the next day or two. I believe that this is due to the water getting into your pores and then being held in thereafter.
The fact is that preparation for races starts long before the week of competition. Some must do's are to stretch often, drink water regularly, get massages, and to consume whatever your body needs. I can tell you from personal experience that as much as it SUCKS to stretch, its easy and can be done practically anywhere, and it makes A BIG DIFFERENCE. I guarantee that. More detail to follow...in part II.
Some people resort to a techniques such as carbo-loading (eating lots of pasta, grains, and bread a few days prior to competition), excessive water intake (drinking more than usual water often a few days before a meet), heat and hot tubs (to release/relax the muscles), or a number of other ways.
-Carbo loading is primarily used for distance runners to increase their carbohydrate levels. I wouldn't recommend any very large (or overly muscular) people try this. Carbs are the first source of energy that the body uses and as longer duration runners need more energy they carb load in efforts to house a backup supply of their physical fuel.
-I would highly discourage anyone from doing the excessive water. You should already be drinking enough water to cool and replenish your body on a daily basis. Drinking an immense amount of water a few days out from a meet is bad because your body is overflooded and goes into a cleaning mechanism whereby it deminishes tons of water from your system, often more than you want which leaves you dehydrated.
-I have heard different things about hot tubs and pools. For the everyday person he/she may jump in the hot tub to relax or soothe the muscles, but I've heard that it can loosen up your muscles to a point where they are flat, and have lost the power and longevity you worked so hard putting in them the week prior. Pools are a little different in that the cool water can usually soak into your pores and allow you legs to feel heavy the next day or two. I believe that this is due to the water getting into your pores and then being held in thereafter.
The fact is that preparation for races starts long before the week of competition. Some must do's are to stretch often, drink water regularly, get massages, and to consume whatever your body needs. I can tell you from personal experience that as much as it SUCKS to stretch, its easy and can be done practically anywhere, and it makes A BIG DIFFERENCE. I guarantee that. More detail to follow...in part II.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Stay Focused
This week was a great breakthrough for me. Not so much in the sense of workouts, or discovering some intricate track secret, but just in general. I had a great week of practice. It was very challenging from the start due to my late flight back to FL Sunday night then waking up to cool temps for a intense track workout. I feel much more confident about my legs, and my knees haven't been giving any serious troubles at all.
I can finally see my endurance base starting to take shape in my workouts wherein each day training seems to get easier. I've been able to get back to the pace where I left off before the knee issue which is very encouraging. Hopefully we can drop the time by another second or two per 100 and start to really do some damage on the track.
Im learning a lot from my coach and training partners about running mechanics, dealing with unanticipated circumstances, and how to compete on the pro level. This season is going to be great, and Im looking to put out some nice times early. As for competition Im sure you have been wondering when & where I might be running first. Coach and I talked loosely and decided it would be best to open up sometime in April. Coach wants me to open up at the University of Miami with the 400I Hurdles, but to run a leg in the 4x4 at Florida Relays the week prior. The Florida Relay meet is April 3/4 and Miami is the next weekend on the 10th.
We haven't gotten back on the hurdles since January so Im hoping that the training will go well enough so that Im ready to run the hurdles in Miami. It seems like a lot to do seeing as Im just starting to get into track shape, then I have to get some type of sprinting base down while still preparing to be in hurdle shape. Sometimes you don't realize how much hurdlers have to train and get ready for (toughest events). On paper you can see that I have my work cut out, but Im determined to get on the track early April. Check back weekly and I'll keep you all posted on the training status. This is the life of dedication!
I can finally see my endurance base starting to take shape in my workouts wherein each day training seems to get easier. I've been able to get back to the pace where I left off before the knee issue which is very encouraging. Hopefully we can drop the time by another second or two per 100 and start to really do some damage on the track.
Im learning a lot from my coach and training partners about running mechanics, dealing with unanticipated circumstances, and how to compete on the pro level. This season is going to be great, and Im looking to put out some nice times early. As for competition Im sure you have been wondering when & where I might be running first. Coach and I talked loosely and decided it would be best to open up sometime in April. Coach wants me to open up at the University of Miami with the 400I Hurdles, but to run a leg in the 4x4 at Florida Relays the week prior. The Florida Relay meet is April 3/4 and Miami is the next weekend on the 10th.
We haven't gotten back on the hurdles since January so Im hoping that the training will go well enough so that Im ready to run the hurdles in Miami. It seems like a lot to do seeing as Im just starting to get into track shape, then I have to get some type of sprinting base down while still preparing to be in hurdle shape. Sometimes you don't realize how much hurdlers have to train and get ready for (toughest events). On paper you can see that I have my work cut out, but Im determined to get on the track early April. Check back weekly and I'll keep you all posted on the training status. This is the life of dedication!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Vacation from vacation
Hey there bloggers whats up! This is DK signing in for more live news. I have been pretty unconsistent with the posts recently due to some unanticipated changes in my schedule. Recently it seems like I've been working every day at one place or another. Thankfully I do have a job that pays my bills, so that is always better.
Last weekend I had a chance to take a much needed trip back home for a break. What is funny is that during the winter months people don't normally go FROM Florida TO Michigan. Florida is an ultimate vacation spot, but I needed a break. I wanted to run at UofMichigan that weekend, but due to the knee issue I decided to simply enjoy time with family. It seemed like I was only there for about 2 days, but it was really 4. I traveled most of the time; all morning Thursday then a 6 hour drive Saturday morning and a similar return trip of 5 hours on Sunday morning turning right around to fly back on that night.
Saturday I accompanied my parents to Derek, younger brother's, hoop game in the upper peninsula of Michigan at his school. It was the first time I had ever been up there so it was kinda a new experience for me. At first I didn't want to go because so much time was spent traveling, but I really wanted to see my brother so I made the trip. Derek's team won the game by 2 points that weekend and are now in the playoffs trying to secure the top spot in the conference. Afterwards most of the families from the team went to dinner ane we had an opportunity to meet everyone. As small as the school is and as far North as it is, there are some really good people that go to his school and overshadows the fact that its very small and in the UP. Everyone up there seemed really nice and pretty cool so Im happy things are working out for Derek. He is only a Freshman, but is showing a lot of promise for the future. He has started a little less than half the season. Im really proud of my him, and can appreciate the excellent work I see him doing on and off the court. He's a better student than I was and I thought I was doing something, lol.
The time I was actually at my parents house I just watched a few movies, worked out once, ate a lot of really good food, and talked a lot with my parents. I hung out with David, my older brother, a lot less than I wanted to, but since we're out of school and have jobs its not as easy to hang out like it was on Christmas breaks. Two of my high school friends (Lindsey and her sister) came over to see me for a few hours. Its always good to see them.
So, I was able to get another break from intense training, enjoyed Michigan, and saw some of my family and friends. This is the life of a family man.
Last weekend I had a chance to take a much needed trip back home for a break. What is funny is that during the winter months people don't normally go FROM Florida TO Michigan. Florida is an ultimate vacation spot, but I needed a break. I wanted to run at UofMichigan that weekend, but due to the knee issue I decided to simply enjoy time with family. It seemed like I was only there for about 2 days, but it was really 4. I traveled most of the time; all morning Thursday then a 6 hour drive Saturday morning and a similar return trip of 5 hours on Sunday morning turning right around to fly back on that night.
Saturday I accompanied my parents to Derek, younger brother's, hoop game in the upper peninsula of Michigan at his school. It was the first time I had ever been up there so it was kinda a new experience for me. At first I didn't want to go because so much time was spent traveling, but I really wanted to see my brother so I made the trip. Derek's team won the game by 2 points that weekend and are now in the playoffs trying to secure the top spot in the conference. Afterwards most of the families from the team went to dinner ane we had an opportunity to meet everyone. As small as the school is and as far North as it is, there are some really good people that go to his school and overshadows the fact that its very small and in the UP. Everyone up there seemed really nice and pretty cool so Im happy things are working out for Derek. He is only a Freshman, but is showing a lot of promise for the future. He has started a little less than half the season. Im really proud of my him, and can appreciate the excellent work I see him doing on and off the court. He's a better student than I was and I thought I was doing something, lol.
The time I was actually at my parents house I just watched a few movies, worked out once, ate a lot of really good food, and talked a lot with my parents. I hung out with David, my older brother, a lot less than I wanted to, but since we're out of school and have jobs its not as easy to hang out like it was on Christmas breaks. Two of my high school friends (Lindsey and her sister) came over to see me for a few hours. Its always good to see them.
So, I was able to get another break from intense training, enjoyed Michigan, and saw some of my family and friends. This is the life of a family man.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Trackside News Now!
Wow, I really wouldn't have thought that Florida get as cold as it has since I've been there. It has been continuously below 35 at night and in the mornings it doesn't break 50 until maybe 11-12. A lot of people have said that this is the worst winter FL has ever seen. fortunately, we'll be clear from the cold in another week or 2. One of my friends told me that at one point last week it was snowing somewhere in every state except Hawaii. Also, a weatherman said that there have been over 300 record freezing temps in the country and more than 200 were from FL; now THATS CRAZY!! Things need to go back to normal next year.
Aside from record lows, my third week of training since the knee problem has been pretty great. We definitely picked up the pace on some 400s earlier this week, and my body about went into shock. We dropped the target time 8 seconds, which is a whole lot! Needless to say I only made one of them the rest were about 3 seconds off. That lactate was building up in my legs too quickly for me to do much about it. As bad as I felt I think the extreme change helped jump-start my body because the next days were fine.
My endurance is coming back quickly and I have been running some times just under where I left off. Coach has been happy with my practices so I love that. I've heard horror stories when pro coaches rip holes in their athlete because of what they're doing wrong or if they're not performing to the expected level. I've gotten my coach mad a few times already, but the whole cussed out in front of a crowd type of thing I would rather avoid altogether! I could see why some athletes run fast and often even when they're severely hurt; sometimes the motivation is not to piss off your coach.
In other news Im flying home to see my family tomorrow morning. The trip was for a track meet at the University of Michigan, but that was prior to the knee problem. I bought the tix in advance so I wasn't going to let $200 go for nothing. I figure that I can enjoy some family time since I was unable to oblige during Christmas. I know my mom is Xtra excited and I can't wait to see my two brothers. My dad hasn't said too much yet, but he's always good for some strong advice so Im also looking forward to that. Until next time...this is the life of a man back on schedule!
Aside from record lows, my third week of training since the knee problem has been pretty great. We definitely picked up the pace on some 400s earlier this week, and my body about went into shock. We dropped the target time 8 seconds, which is a whole lot! Needless to say I only made one of them the rest were about 3 seconds off. That lactate was building up in my legs too quickly for me to do much about it. As bad as I felt I think the extreme change helped jump-start my body because the next days were fine.
My endurance is coming back quickly and I have been running some times just under where I left off. Coach has been happy with my practices so I love that. I've heard horror stories when pro coaches rip holes in their athlete because of what they're doing wrong or if they're not performing to the expected level. I've gotten my coach mad a few times already, but the whole cussed out in front of a crowd type of thing I would rather avoid altogether! I could see why some athletes run fast and often even when they're severely hurt; sometimes the motivation is not to piss off your coach.
In other news Im flying home to see my family tomorrow morning. The trip was for a track meet at the University of Michigan, but that was prior to the knee problem. I bought the tix in advance so I wasn't going to let $200 go for nothing. I figure that I can enjoy some family time since I was unable to oblige during Christmas. I know my mom is Xtra excited and I can't wait to see my two brothers. My dad hasn't said too much yet, but he's always good for some strong advice so Im also looking forward to that. Until next time...this is the life of a man back on schedule!
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