Today, after examining my run assignments for the week, I went out for a run. It would not be the speed workout, which was scheduled for yesterday. It would not be the 6 mile progressive run scheduled for tomorrow. Although today’s workout was an easy 3-4 mile run, it wasn’t that either. What it was to be, I didn’t exactly know. I just knew that it would be to a popular hiking and running location that the locals just rave about. It was time to discover what all the hype was about.
I ran along the streets for 1 mile to reach the entrance. I told the guard at the gate that this was my first time. He reassured me that it was a single loop; I could not get lost. He cited some facts about the distance to the top of the hill, etc. I only absorbed the fact that the total distance from the gate entrance and back would be 3.7 miles. 3.7 miles + 1 mile to and from = 5.7 miles. It wasn’t exactly 3-4 miles and it wasn’t exactly easy. I wondered if I could possibly make it my progressive run. Looking up the steep climb, I thought better of it. I’d just run and see what happened.
I began my trek. I passed many hikers along the way. I huffed and puffed like the big, bad wolf. The only problem was that I was climbing the brick houses of hills. I thought, “Am I that out of shape?” To make matters worse, I young chick whooshed past me and disappeared down the other side of the hill. It was a bit demoralizing.
On the positive side, once I got over my deflated ego, I got to see exactly what all the rage was about. All around me was incredible views of the entire Bay Area. It was breathtaking – literally. *huff – puff*
I can now say that I have “been there and done that.” I have also discovered that I will need a couple of more options for my lunchtime runs. I know that a little hill work will do me good, but I also need confidence going into my next race. I have no idea where my new routes will take me, but I guess I become very familiar with my new surroundings (like it or not) very quickly.
Sounds like fun and you know they say hills are speedwork in disguise.
Julie,
If you ever want a Dish running buddy…I’m game!
BTW, even when I was in IronMo shape, running up that initial kill made me huff and puff like no tomorrow!
I’ve finally gotten over someone passing me when I’m having a hard run. I usually tell myself that they’ve just started the run, that’s why they’re so fast!
It sounds like the view was worth the effort! Nice job. :)