That is something I thought I might never do again since moving to San Diego. 5 of our friends, Angela, and I spent the weekend in a cozy cabin, 7,000 feet above sea level, in Big Bear. We had a fireplace, a hot tub and plenty of wine and hot cocoa to help us endure the cold temps that our bodies aren't accustomed to.
I had my first snowboarding experience too! It may also be my last. Those huge puffy pants and awkward boots are definitely not flattering and neither is my face when it's red, puffy and snotty. Any sport that requires THAT much gear and preparation is not a good match for a lazy person like me. Strapping my feet into those bindings one time was enough. The fact that I had to un-strap and re-strap those suckers all day was not doing it for me. I kept comparing snowboarding to running and the fact that running only requires shoes. You just lace 'em up and go! If you're a barefoot runner, you just go! Snowboarding is an ordeal. That's the best way I can put it. I was so ready for a warm alcoholic beverage after a day on the slopes.
Where's Waldo?
Numbing the pain of snowboarding...
I learned that Ryan Hall grew up in Big Bear. No wonder he is an incredible runner! With that elevation and those hills you're destined to be great if you train there. It is truly a fantastic place for runners. Angela and I enjoyed a 6+ mile run before leaving and the views were breathtaking. We're usually in awe of the ocean as we run, but running in Big Bear gave us a chance to appreciate the beauty of the snow-topped mountains. It was a challenging run, but a worthwhile one. I am so grateful that Ang dragged my hungover butt out the door to see the lake and mountains.
Running in Ryan Hall's footsteps :)
I enjoyed the snow for a couple of days but returning home to a beach town feels so right.
***
Today is "Week 1" of Boston Marathon training. 18 weeks, everybody! I have a personalized plan for this training cycle to avoid injury and do my absolute best. Jack Daniels started something called the Run S.M.A.R.T. Project and they offer coaching, training plans and training camps. I paid $60 for an 18-week individualized plan and e-mail support from a running coach. I e-mailed my coach ahead of time and explained my recent injuries and running history. With that information he was able to ease me into long runs and adjust accordingly. If at any time my plan needs to be tweaked, he will take care of it.
I have studied my plan like there will be a test and I have to say, I love it! It looks great and I am excited to get started.
Who else starts training this week? What type of plan are you following?
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let marathon training season begin! big bear is beautiful and looks like you had a wonderful time. you aren't missing much snow here, we have only gotten a dusting once thus far. its actually been rather mild in the city.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your training!
ReplyDeleteYAY an update! Looks like you had a great time! Best of luck on the marathon training!
ReplyDeleteMissed you...... They say the difference between a beginner snowboarder and instructor is 3 days o don't give up
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun vaca! I've never snowboarded and have always wanted to give it a try. My training for Boston starts now as well! Can't wait to hear more about your training plan and how you like it.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same way about scuba diving as you do snowboarding. I LOVE it, but it requires soooo many accessories and bulky equipment.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great weekend in Big Bear! I do really like snowboarding, I haven't done it in a while, but it is fun. It took me 4 days trying it to learn it, but once I learned it I had a blast. Otherwise you end up on your butt constantly, haha
ReplyDeleteRunning in Big Bear sounds awesome!
Your Jack Daniels training plan sounds good, I know Jack Daniels is very technical about training, so I bet it will work out great!