After spending the weekend skiing in 6 degrees Fahrenheit, I figured I should be able to suffer through a run in 32 degrees. So, when I got home from work today I bundled up in my running gear (UnderArmour Cold Gear tights and long sleeved mock turtle neck as a base layer, running pants and a light weight long-sleeved shirt, running gloves and a hat), grabbed the dog and headed out for my training run. Tonight’s plan called for 3 miles, followed by 3 x [2:00, 2:30] aerobic intervals, and then another 2 miles. The whole run would be a little too long for the dog, so I figured out a route where I could swing back by the house after about 3.5 miles and drop her off before completing my run. I was amazed and glad to find that there was still a little daylight after finishing this first segment. It was also about this time that I realized my plan was a bit backwards and I should have picked up the dog towards the end of my run instead of taking her at the beginning so she was with me for the dark and scary parts.
I live in a really very safe area, but that doesn’t stop me from being a little nervous about running around after dark by myself. I stay on sidewalks near very populated roads and areas, but it does make me feel safer to have a 70 lbs German Shepherd Dog with me when I’m out at night! Granted, I have no idea what she would do if something were to happen, but just her presence is enough for me!
I started my aerobic intervals immediately as I left the house, and I think I may have accidentally missed one, but for the most part they went well. I had to dodge some piles of snow and run in the grass a bit. Overall though, I would say that my first outdoor run of the new year was pretty successful.
Heart Rate Stats:
Run Segment 1 (3 miles):
Duration – 37:44
Maximum Heart Rate -178
Average Heart Rate -149
Calories -340
Run Segment 2 (dropping Tara off):
Duration – 8:37
Maximum Heart Rate – 157
Average Heart Rate -148
Calories – 73
Run Segment 3 (intervals)
Duration – 23:18
Maximum Heart Rate – 193
Average Heart Rate – 177
Calories – 275
Run Segment 4 (home):
Duration -20:05
Maximum Heart Rate – 184
Average Heart Rate – 169
Calories – 216
Stronger, Faster, Longer 
#1 by Amy on January 13, 2010 - 10:34 am
Nice run! Were you warm enough? I always get nervous about running in the dark, too. Do you have a Road ID? I’ve felt much better since I got mine, but of course I don’t always remember to wear it …
#2 by Kristin on January 13, 2010 - 1:47 pm
Yes, definitely warm enough. In fact, I think the jacket was a bit overkill for the beginning of the run, but after the sun went down I was glad to have it. I do not have a Road ID, but am planning to get one this month. I have a $15 gift certificate towards one that expires at the end of the month – thanks for the reminder!