Shoez

Like more and more runners these days, I've gotten into the minimalist style of running. It's been tough, especially since I was so excited when I got my lighter shoes that I overdid it at first. I still have a nagging ache on the top of my right arch, especially noticeable when driving. Oddly, I never feel it when running. I suspect it's from the new shoes and mid-foot running transition. On Thursday, I ran 6 road miles, 2 before the group run, in my New Balance 790s, then 4 with everyone else, in my old Mizunos. I feel a difference with the New Balances, they're just so light and make me feel powerful. That seems to be reflected in my splits. I'm still not good about warming up and pacing, so my first mile was a 7:45 pace. I dialed it back for the second mile, mixing walks in at this point and going back up hill, so overall it was a 9:15 pace for 2 miles. Switched into the more conventional shoes, though since I've had them for a year they're definitely not as cushioned anymore. And my first mile was an 8:35. I don't think I was trying to go slower, and I usually run faster with a group, plus this involved a .75 mile downhill run! However, over the course of the run, I began to feel last Saturday more in my legs. I didn't think it would still be with me, but I guess that degree of trail racing, combined with another 4.5 miles of road running had kicked the ass of my quads a bit. Thus, it's hard to make an exact comparison between shoes, though my feet and legs felt great while hashing this Saturday.

On that note, I'm a sucker for the Sing-Off. I've known about the Bubs since 2002, and am a fan of acappella in general, so I can't help but like it! It's kinda weird that they've already apparently filmed everything except the finale, and don't tell me it's the "hottest show in America" during the previews for night 2, plus the constant "they're doing it without instruments!!!!" gets annoying after a while, but I can't help but enjoy the harmonies and choreography. Where are the Waiters or Last Call?!?!?!!?!?!