tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24354228645706170992024-02-20T23:10:29.002-08:00the closet sports freakI'm a mid twenties cardio loving female who suddenly got bitten by a competitive running bug! This blog combines two favorite hobbies of mine: writing and working out a sweat.tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.comBlogger258125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-73660654733145896632013-01-10T19:57:00.002-08:002013-01-10T19:57:49.602-08:002013! And my 2012 health/fitness journeyI'm so psyched for 2013... like I have been for 2012, 2011...<br />
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2013 is the year I plan to rev up my health. I guess people who knows me, especially my family, has already seen it coming looong ago. I've always been the health nut in the family, although more often than not I succumbed to my mom's awesome but not exactly healthy dishes. And I love rice, too much. I love oily fried rice too, and I am a huge MILO fan... you get the idea?<br />
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3 years ago, I was gifted with the diagnosis of hitting the Pre-Diabetic line. I considered it a gift because it made me 'revolutionize' my eating habit. It came just at the right time; I was not a kid being fed what mom cooked, not a starving and poor university student settling for maggi mee, but getting married, getting paid, and living on my own. I began eliminating fast food. Out went all the mcdonalds, and KFC and Burger King (the only fast food I eat anyways), and reduced my maggi intake so much, that when I had it I felt guilty. I reduced MILO, severely. I cut back on desserts (which wasn't hard alhamdulillah because I don't really have a sweet tooth).<br />
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I didn't see any changes. But I felt good, knowing I took control of the food I eat. 2 years ago when I got married and moved in with harris, we cooked, and that's when I tried to cultivate a taste for healthy lifestyle. But it WAS NOT EASY when you have a normal Malay husband who grew up with mamak, gerai, fast food and junk food. I fought tooth and nail to had us only eat brown rice. After nearly 2 years, he is accustomed to it. I had us take a good supplement. Every carb had to be brown, not white. We allow fallbacks and swerving in this journey, once in a while you can see me walloping Nasi Lemak - my key goal is to cultivate not FORCE.<br />
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;Last year, I amped up my fitness again but in a different less competitive way. I did yoga religiously, I run and cycle 2 times a week. I began to include green smoothies daily in my diet. I stocked my fridge with fruits and 'malay male' friendly greens and prepared them so it's easy for him to just grab and munch. For his junk food, I invested in expensive but 'healthier' potato chips, less sodium etc etc. It's the least I can do for him. I made up interesting sweet treats to reduce his ice-cream intake - like banana peanut butter ice cream, etc. I went organic as much as I could. Financially it was tough on the budget but I reduced other aspects on my life - clothes, movie outings - and invested in good ingredients instead. I became crazy reading up on nutrition. I read foodie blogs.<br />
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I also will try to squeeze in a second workout after work (I workout before work after subuh which gives me a great energy boost) which is crossfit based, and honestly, that improved my overall fitness tremendously! Went cycling and we did a crossfit style loop and I wasn't really tired, in fact I could keep up. I am beating my dad again on uphills (seriously, my dad has improved to the point he is awesome for his age). Wall squat holds for 3 minutes x 6 times is heaven sent for cycling. Always complement it by stretching your hip flexors though!<br />
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Anyway, well, 2013 is already looking good. My 2013 plans? To take up bodywork study seriously. I've always been interested in massages, trigger point theraphy, accupuncture, myofascial system, anatomy, ever since I herniated my cervical disc and also injured my ankle (still not recovering, aaargh!). This is one aspect that I am lacking in knowledge and will see to it that I will improve.<br />
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See ya!tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-3027993703473302002012-11-28T01:40:00.002-08:002012-11-28T01:40:54.992-08:00Ride with Dad: 60kmLast weekend I rode with my dad.<br />
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We had a plan: ride to my cousin's house for breakfast and ride back. They live in Bandar Baru Bangi, and we will start from dad's house at Nilai Impian. I've never rode the route before but dad has - alone, I might add - and he says it's pretty cool.<br />
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The first part of the ride took us through Kg Batang Benar. It is my favorite part of the ride. It was shady, veryyy scenic and peaceful. No cars passed by, only motorcycles. No dogs. It was cool and shady, even though we started late (750 am). It was a mostly flat route, no major climbs. In fact, there were no major uphill along the whole route, only 2-3 little rollers that might make your heart beat race a little bit. Nothing major. It was really cool riding with dad. This is my 6th time I think with him and he has improved sooo much. He used to be a really bad roadie. Utter disregard for traffic and cars, not even bother to look back at me and see if I was safe - his own daughter! Even then I still had to remind him to keep to the shoulder of the road as he tended to veer towards the middle of the road.<br />
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My dad is an improved cyclist. When we first started he was slow and only fast on flats. That too, would be only for a while. Forget about hills. It was almost shameful to watch him hustle and bustle. I've been too used over him gloating that this old man can beat his own daughter that seeing him choking on my dust seemed... barbaric. But he cycles continuously, during the weekdays he would do a 'sprint repeat' or intervals, just riding at full speed until he tires. He attacks hilly routes sometimes. But those helped. He is now a better cyclist than me - who rides once in a while now. I am proud of him. He's what - 60 years old and still well, roughly fit.<br />
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The ride to Bandar Baru Bangi was hot and dusty. Traffic wasn't all bad, none of the cars paid any attention to us. We arrived at my cousin's house more or less on the time we had estimated. She has prepared a sumptuous feast of Nasi Lemak and chicken fritters and iced drinks. What awesomeness.<br />
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The way back was even better. It was really hot, and I was dying. We went the shorter way via Bukit Mahkota and there was this one long stretch of an uphill. My dad climbed smoothly while I was too drained to 'fight'. I could see my dad slowly gloating over the fact that he beat his own daughter.<br />
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We arrived at 1130 am. And then slept.tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-92059752985906523992012-11-06T19:24:00.001-08:002012-11-06T19:28:27.085-08:00Semangat Lari Balik... and I talk about yoga.Actually, I have always been semangat.<br />
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Actually, tak.<br />
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To be honest, ever since I discovered ashtanga yoga, I am lazy to do anything that involves me to go out of the house wearing clothes... erk, not that I practice naked. Cuma less baju to wash. Dengan tudung nyer lagi etc etc.<br />
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Why do I like ashtanga so much? Because it is a good replacement. It physically, mentally and emotionally challenges me just the same. The practice usually takes me about 90 minutes or 120 minutes to complete, depending, and it requires you to focus.<br />
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When I came to yoga it was because the doctors said, "Kau lari lagi kau kayuh lagi aku patahkan lutut hang!" <i>(Badan lembik perasan baguih) </i>Ntah2 dier tambah dalam hati. So I went. I came to yoga entirely for a physical practice.<br />
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Then somehow it changed. Ashtanga is hard. Period. It has about 5? series - one series have probably about 30 or so poses - and they keep getting harder. Most people will only do first series, maybe two. A few get to do third and beyond. I have been doing first - or primary - series for literally a year now.<br />
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The major difference about ashtanga and my 'tri' training is the spiritual aspect of it. Whereas multisport os a world where you need to kinda exude confidence, ashtanga needs you to be really humble. If your balance is off that day - check, did you unintentionally hurt someone? It's a grounding practice, one that goes with my faith.<br />
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But let's talk about the physical aspect. Here are a few of my favorite primary poses:<br />
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<img src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" /><br />
This is called bhujapidasana. The full pose requires you to lower your head slightly to the floor, and lifting back up. This develops your arm strength tremendously. My swimming has never felt better. One of my favorites.<br />
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<img src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" /><br />
Lolasana. I have not yet gained that strength in the hip flexors to lift my feet up.<br />
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<img src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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/><br />
Kukutasana - Christy Turlington, a dedicated yogi, nailing it. I love this one too.<br />
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Here are the poses in second series:<br />
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<img src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQNyf9aaO2PKeEq4QUbfeTzk8p3Q-GEiDMRiixsvplRfj5wXb73" /><br />
Pincha Mayurasana - I totally love this pose. Took me a while to develop that upper body strength to kick up. Can only do it supported, with my toes against a wall.<br />
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I could share more but here's one that I am currently practicing:<br />
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<img 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" /><br />
Eka Pada Koundiyasana - I could only get to balance for a split second before my arm strength failed me. Love the work I am putting for this, a third series pose.<br />
<br />
Anyway, the stronger I get with my practice the more I yearn to start a regular running practice back. I do run, usually once a week, or twice on a good week, and cycle once a week, but it's not satisfying enough. Now that the first series is getting a tad easier, I feel like I want to incorporate running as a cross training... how funny is that? Would be good for my legs to develop some strength that could help me with some hard balancing poses!<br />
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Onto my running practice... twice a week, first. Baby steps!tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-26843653450622592352012-09-06T17:08:00.001-07:002012-09-06T17:08:36.495-07:00Barefoot and New ShoesTwo days ago I went for a run for the first time in the past 4 years with an old pair of my running shoes. Because my trusty vibram has retired, torn at the toes. I lasted only 1km when I entertained to this crazy idea of chucking off my shoes and running barefoot, on the road. Without thinking much, I took them off, set them aside (no one stole the shoes) and ran.<br />
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Running completely barefoot was an experience for me. I've been running in vibram for 4+ years and have no problems with the lack of shock absorption but my soles have been mollycoddled with a layer of hard plastic all the while. Running without nothing on covering them, was a whole new feeling. After 2km the pavement began to burn my feet. At 4km I had moved from absolutely burning to just an all around tender feeling. I had to keep running and ran faster to eliminate the sensation. If I went any slower the burn came. I stopped at 5km, my usual tune-up mileage, and limped to get my shoes. Told myself to get a new pair of vibrams.<br />
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Still I was glad I did it. Well, at least if somebody stole my shoes or they tore I know I could last probably 5km running. That run was literally a whole 32 minutes 45 seconds of being absolutely alive. It reminded me of this poem I love:<br />
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<i> I promise to make you more alive than you've ever been.</i><br />
<i>For the first time you'll see your pores opening</i><br />
<i>like the gills of fish and you'll hear</i><br />
<i>the noise of blood in galleries</i><br />
<i>and feel light gliding on your corneas</i><br />
<i>like the dragging of a dress across the floor.</i><br />
<i>For the first time, you'll note gravity's prick</i><br />
<i>like a thorn in your heel,</i><br />
<i>and your shoulder blades will hurt from the imperative of wings.</i><br />
<i>I promise to make you so alive that</i><br />
<i>the fall of dust on furniture will deafen you,</i><br />
<i>and you'll feel your eyebrows like two wounds forming</i><br />
<i>and your memories will seem to begin</i><br />
<i>with the creation of the world.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Anyway, bought a new pair of vibram last night and cannot wait to start running in them.tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-10586442993036011852012-08-05T19:25:00.000-07:002012-08-05T19:25:04.471-07:00RamadhanWeek 3 of Ramadhan.<br />
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My workout has been consistent, except for some modifications to suit my ramadhan schedule. As usual, I feel that my perform better when I am thirsty, hungry, weak and undernourished, which is crazy, but it's true. I hardly needed pushing to run a few kms longer, or faster. I even did a harder set for my strength training workout, which made my whole body sore the next two days. But it was a good sore, it was a healthy, post workout sore.<br />
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Me and harris have been on a workout bends lately. He's been busy with his muay thai and football and I my running and cycling and strength sets. We shovel in banana like there's no tomorrow. Our electricity bills have increased due to the constant washing of our workout clothes. Yesterday night we finally sat down and watched the olympic rerun of swimming, and enjoyed it tremendously. The only difference between us is that he has a higher metabolism, which means he could eat like a pig and still stay slender.<br />
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Speaking of food, I've been sort of attuned to meatless dining. I have no idea when this started, but all I know is that I don't get as excited about eating chicken and lamb or beef anymore. I still eat them - when mom cooks or when a dish looks delicious, but for the most part I find myself gravitating towards fish and veggies. I find that my body moves better and I don't feel bloated or sluggish as much. I also feel less guilty about eating animals that probably weren't properly slaughtered :(<br />
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This month marks the fourth month I've been using cruelty free products. I've never felt better. This isn't a phase or something I will regret. I will never ever ever touch a product that I know is tested on animals. It is harder to source for certain things (for example toothpaste and deodorants) but with proper research I am able to look for ethical companies that produces these products. Finally I can sleep at night. Of course, harris calls me orang asli for using the sugi stick (when I couldn't find an organic toothpaste) and using essential oil soap bars. But at least I can put my guilty conscience that Ive been carrying since I was a teenager to rest.<br />
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<br />tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-42826619784165776672012-06-19T21:02:00.001-07:002012-06-19T21:06:28.369-07:00You Know You're Addicted When...I'm now going through a grueling 6 day strength and endurance workshop... just because.<br />
<br />
I was reading a blog post titled, "You know you're a martial arts student when..." and it got me thinking. Here's mine:<br />
<br />
<b><u>You Know You're a Workout Junkie When:</u></b><br />
<br />
1) You own more stretchy pants than jeans.<br />
2) You own different pairs of running shoes for LSD, race days, treadmills, lazy runs<br />
3) You sleep in the running vests you get during registrations.<br />
4) You have countless amount of workout bras, for different sports: longer length for cycling, more support for running, etc<br />
<i>4a) You have countless supplies of anything, in my case 3 yoga mats, 2 helmets, 2 gloves, 2 swimming suits, 2 goggles, etc... the list is endless. Consumer whore!</i><br />
5) Your bathroom constantly have goggles, swim cap and swimming suits hanging to dry<br />
6) Your car is a mobile sports store room with shoes, pairs of socks, bottled water, etc<br />
7) You smell of muscle rubs most of the time.<br />
8) You understand and can talk about V02 max, intervals, and pyramids with such excitement.<br />
9) You mentally map out your run or cycle route whenever you're passing a pretty hilly road or beautiful landscape<br />
10) Your vacation is a running event, or a yoga workshop<br />
11) You don't hesitate.. EVER to plunk out more than RM200 for your beloved sports<br />
12) Your kitchen is fully stocked with bananas and chocolate milk<br />
13) You and your spouse go to massages, reflexology, and cupping more often than the movies.<br />
14) You won't swim in a pool that is not 50m<br />
15) You know what Nuu, Urdhva Dhanurasana, bento bag, pulling means<br />
16) The word Drill gives you a Thrill<br />
17) You actually know where your serratus anterior, rotator cuff and plantar fasciitis are. And what they mean.<br />
<br />
I actually have a lot more but I am at work at I can't really get to excited. Of all the activities I listed, I've been missing the swim. Ever since I rented out my condo to a friend the pool benefit goes away too. That was the suckiest part for me. I love my condo's pool because it is 50m, has practically no one, and although not deep, nice enough for me to tread water and do whatever I wanted to do.<br />
<br />
My cycling is now only on Sundays, at the same route and area. I just like the hills. It's an easy workout, without wasting time and driving far. The last time I went, I honestly thought I would suffer, but I was actually pretty great even my riding buddy complimented on me. HE NEVER DOES THAT. Of course, it wasn't really a compliment, more like, "Well, at least you weren't huffing and puffing." hahah trust me, I take it as a compliment, because it surely means he didn't think I was a hopeless case.<br />
<br />
I went running Saturday with a friend. We did hills (of course). Since she was just starting out and hates running I turned it inot some sort of a game: run uphill and brisk walk the rest. We had fun, especially at the top of the hills.<br />
<br />
My body is sooo sore! And I feel tired! I can't wait to run. What? did I just say that. Maybe I'm delusional.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-5326876282532937442012-05-16T01:07:00.002-07:002012-05-16T01:07:31.266-07:00MayhemI actually signed up for a couple of races I know I won't be around for.<br />
<br />
I have began my relocation to Turkmenistan. Although it is not official, but I'm often there more than here. I still workout extensively, sometimes obsessively. It's just all those extra time.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow's schedule: running. an easy 5k, just like I always do. Either that or a very very simple spin off the neighborhood. Quite hard when you're wearing cleats.tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-7858123524072921672012-04-16T18:01:00.002-07:002012-04-16T18:06:09.035-07:00Only 28kmThe conversation we had while we were cycling sunday:<div><br /></div><div> On favoritism. Especially on your children. Somehow, that's the best part of my sunday cycling - the conversations. Sometimes I had to pause - grunting up the hills and everything - and when we coasted downhill we'd be discussing again. Last sunday I asked him a question: do you have a favorite?</div><div><br /></div><div> I find it funny that parents always get defensive when asked that question. Not defensive angry, but just, they didn't think it's a good question. Mostly because they are aware of what it could bring if they had an answer. My dad refused to answer that question because we were all different, he said. But I always somehow think that he had favorites, different kids at different times.</div><div><br /></div><div> There's nothing wrong with liking one kid, at least that's what I think.</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-62394879363578482222012-04-12T23:09:00.002-07:002012-04-12T23:38:44.873-07:00morning runI have been MIA.<div><br /></div><div> But I had a good morning run today that warrants a writeup. Nothing actually is special - normal 5k run, normal speed. But it was the promise of a good day, beautiful morning. I had a beautiful workout last night, and a deep sleep, and time to cuddle with my cat. I run on and off, more off. But this morning it just felt natural. My feet loved the sensation of the road, the roughness licking my soles. The air was cool, crisp - I could just imagine fall leaves flying down on me. My knees were singing. Legs strong. Core in control. My breathing was not erratic - I wasn't pushing myself.</div><div><br /></div><div> Truly, the beauty about running is in the mind and soul. Haven't felt like this for a while, and I bet it will be ages before I feel it again.</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-21709249586535266522012-02-28T16:05:00.007-08:002012-02-28T16:33:28.200-08:00Good Intense Stretch for RunnersWhenever I hit a situation that is mentally or physically challenging, I usually revert back to the darkest, worst moment I'd faced and survived in order to toughen up. Usually it's a tie between the toughest cliff in Nepal, or the last end of the 190km Melaka ride, or the worst hills I've rode on. But it all goes to mush when I'm asked to hold a pose for more than 5 minutes. These SS class can be mentally challenging. VERY. My legs were screaming in pain and my form was shaking and I was gritting my teeth and my teacher was like, "It's all in the mind!"<div><br /></div><div> Anyway, updates: I injured myself big time getting too obsessive in SS - disc herniation in C5 and C6. In layman's terms, however incorrect: slipped disc of the cervical spine. It was mostly ego and pure foolishness, attempting to do poses my body was not strong enough. Because I thought I was good, and I thought I could handle it.</div><div><br /></div><div> Practising SS has made me aware of my body like never before. When I run, I am very very aware of my feet landings, how my knees feel, the sides of my upper body, and especially my breathing. It's all about how the body works. I am careful not to extend sitting at my desk for too long - taking water breaks, talking on the telephone while standing up, etc. Every little bit counts.</div><div><br /></div><div> I want to to share with you one good pose that really benefit runners:</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUOROWf10faXVimN_H3GRJOSYH2S7TKwvqPX8FfJ_EbfRFko8XG9gzBCy4W6xpZqVo8DitO7rf4Pblac5EqYl3XfGPtc4oVF_QnsgIrM3bUyROIQT_Ls1Qs1AZEn3QkeSV95-T3OQMUQ/s1600/ns-janu-sirsasana-c-4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUOROWf10faXVimN_H3GRJOSYH2S7TKwvqPX8FfJ_EbfRFko8XG9gzBCy4W6xpZqVo8DitO7rf4Pblac5EqYl3XfGPtc4oVF_QnsgIrM3bUyROIQT_Ls1Qs1AZEn3QkeSV95-T3OQMUQ/s400/ns-janu-sirsasana-c-4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714344545919757906" /></a>Well, this is the best I could find that clearly shows the foot placement, also, I figure if I put a female stretching in her skimpy clothes it wouldn't benefit anyone heheh. Well, then again...</div><div><br /></div><div> This is the last - and possibly to many - the hardest variation of the knee to head pose. And this is a very good stretch for us runners or cyclists, as this stretches the hamstrings and opens the hip joints simultaneously. Also, the foot placement externally rotates the knee (caution: do this VERY CAREFULLY and if pain appears, move out of the pose) and works the ankle as well. You would feel it at the ankle, and it should feel good, not painful. This is not the final pose. You should be folding forward from your waist (not upper back) and holding to your extended foot. If you are really flexible, you should be clasping your left wrist (if left leg extended) with your right hand. The point is to get your stomach kissing your upper thigh.</div><div><br /></div><div> There you go. This is my favorite stretch to do after a run, because your legs are already warmed up and open, and when you bend forward, you reallly really feel this stretch. </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div> </div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-19694481644824794162012-02-03T17:46:00.000-08:002012-02-03T17:56:35.451-08:00January-FebruaryAside from the one week off from workout due to neck/shoulder pulls, here's the menu:<div><br /></div><div> Monday: 5.5k</div><div> Tuesday: SS</div><div> Thursday: 5.5k, SS</div><div> Friday: SS</div><div> Saturday: Swim 1.5k</div><div> Sunday: Bike, SS</div><div><br /></div><div> Things have been great. That one week off really put me in a blue mood. But I guess I needed the time off to reflect and rest. I was showing off - too much - in fact in my SS class. </div><div><br /></div><div> This morning went for a super slow 5.5k run. Time taken: 42 minutes. Actually it is not slow at all in my book. But my definition of super slow comes from the perceived effort. I wasn't struggling, my breath was not labored at all. My legs were ok, I was enjoying the pavements and saying hi to the dogs and their owners. I wish I could take one of the dogs out for a run.</div><div><br /></div><div> I wish my cats could run with me. </div><div><br /></div><div> My upper body felt sore from the heavy and challenging workout yesterday. 90 minutes of body weight conditioning. SS, how much do I love thee? So my legs get the workout today.</div><div><br /></div><div> Last week visited a Chinese Tit Tar. Never heard of it? Neither had I, until last week. Tit Tar apparently means Bone Setters. That guy, Erik did really cool stuff on my neck and shoulder, basically, he put on some 'exorcist' moves on me. I've never heard my bones crack so much, or in another way, how out of position my spine is. It was cool. And I felt so much better.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-91569537974060303742012-01-22T00:36:00.000-08:002012-01-22T01:12:24.997-08:002012 GoalsMy fitness goals for 2012 are simple:<div><br /></div><div> 1) Run continuously, or on and off, or sparingly - it doesn't matter. As long as you still run. 5k per run is enough to lube your joints.</div><div> 2) Cycle. Because you can and because the hills are alive... with the sound of music.</div><div> 3) Swim because no matter how slow you are, you can always outlast the speediest swimmer. </div><div><br /></div><div> I will always do my swim, bike, run. Just not competitively, just not socially. I run on my own these days, at a park 100m from the house in USJ 2. I run 5.5km once a week, twice or thrice on a good week. I still cycle, only on weekdays, with only one person who has sort of became my coach. Sometimes I hate him; he pushes me when I don't feel like being pushed, but after it ends I feel buzzed. We mostly enjoy the conversations about nutrition, sports, workouts, and sometimes personal life. I hardly swim, but when I do it's like I never stopped. My pace is steady and slow, and I usually daydream and daydream until I have done a 2k.</div><div><br /></div><div> I have been obsessive about a new kind of workout these days - my SS routine. I think I love it because it's so ACCESSIBLE. Running used to be the most accessible sport I knew - you can do it anywhere with minimal stuff - but now SS trumps running. It is essentially the EASIEST, most accessible workout you can ever do - you only need 2 hours max. You don't need the outdoors, you don't even need clothes on.. well, my point is you can do it in the buff and no one knows and you'd still get a fucking good workout.</div><div><br /></div><div> And I mean it. I'm no stranger to endurance sports. I love a sweat session as much as the next runner. I love the lactic acid burn and the heat in your lungs. I've felt them all too. That's what I meant - you still get it, from the comfort of your home.</div><div><br /></div><div> I sound like a bad marketing spiel. Or a cult member. </div><div><br /></div><div> Lately, I have been focusing waaay too much on SS (stretching and strengthening). It's so easy to skip my running or anything outdoors in favor of SS because I sweat the same, feel exhausted the same and don't have to worry about doing the laundry or leaving the house. Also, the workout is really good for Type-A, competitive person like me. It's challenging. It has you using your body weight and twisting and lifting them back and forth. You can't skip a pose and you cannot proceed if you don't nail this one. And have I mentioned that most of the times all I had on was my underwear? Too much info I know! Well, nobody reads this anyway heheh</div><div><br /></div><div> But the point of having a healthy lifestyle is balance, and balance is what I seek. I still enjoy running, especially after the run. I still love tackling hills on my wheels. I love swimming, or doing karate and rollerblading. I still want to do all that in 2012, probably for the next few years. Harris is also on a sports mode, taking up muay thai and getting obsessed with that too. Between our workouts and work, we hardly have time for each other. So we proceed to be home for dinner, and stay in for a movie night. Sometimes we camp in the living room, making pillow forts (what can I say... we're still in our 2o's, childless). I have started sewing again, making bags, pillowcases, hopefully working on making my own clothes again. I took a creative writing course, just finished it, which was fun and enlightening. So balance is good.</div><div><br /></div><div> So there you have it, my goal for this year. Oh, aside from mastering the 5 minutes Headstand (without the wall support and with pelvis aligned, of course) I also want to run a couple of races.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-20900504384887047952012-01-08T15:50:00.000-08:002012-01-08T16:01:45.761-08:002 New HillsYesterday we went for a simple ride.<div><br /></div><div>The same route, same hills, only he added 2 new ones. Cycling with my coach/riding buddy is a love and hate thing. I loooove it when it is over or if I was faster and stronger that day, but I hate it because he always make me feel like I wasn't good enough. While climbing a particularly steep hill, I was struggling and he pointed out that we were only going at 7km/h! And to make matters worse, he did not bring any water with him whereas I had to stop and drink a Livita. </div><div><br /></div><div> We also got chased by dogs. That was a funny moment. I thought I was going to be dead because damn it, my legs did not need the extra speedwork! But luckily the dogs stopped chase after a while.</div><div><br /></div><div> I came back and did 2 hours of SS workout. And now my arms are supersore. But my legs felt really good during the 2 hour session. I think I need the running and cycling to prepare me for these sessions. I always thought I can do without.</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-43019943377519716072012-01-04T15:57:00.000-08:002012-01-04T16:08:43.319-08:00Giving Back while Getting Sweaty: The Pet Project Malaysia 2012Here's an interesting event I believe all of us weekend warriors would benefit in this Saturday: <a href="http://www.thepetprojectmalaysia.org/">The Pet Project Malaysia 2012.</a><div><br /></div><div>"<span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-weight: bold; ">The Pet Project Malaysia</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> is a 12-hour “Get Active” marathon comprised of dance, fitness and sports-based classes taught by internationally renowned presenters along with performances from Malaysia’s most promising young talents. </span></div><br style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Aside from the MAIN EVENT (our master classes and performances), participants can also visit our sports carnival, playground, silent auction, rock climbing wall, rugby drills, a 2-hour workshop by Jojo Struys, self defense classes, animal welfare talks, football nutrition talks, face painting, Asia's largest football card montage, food & beverage stalls, sponsors & partners booths, merchandise booths and of course our NGO booths."</span><div><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="text-align: left; ">I find this event to be highly refreshing. Charity events usually don't get the highlight they need because the public tend to find them boring and only cater for specific interest groups, but this effort by the Petfinder and the animal welfare groups should be applauded. To combine the concept of getting active while giving back to animals - these two things really really appeal to me. I only found out about this yesterday and was surprised that I didn't know about this before! </span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="text-align: left; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="text-align: left; "> I think this would be a fun event to go with your kids or if you're an animal lover and really really are concerned with the plight of these animals or just needed a cheap way to learn something new (one class or pass to a class is only RM 25). Believe me, no one paid me to advertise, I just feel strongly for a good event like these.</span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="text-align: left; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="text-align: left; "> Some of the NGOs are PAWS, SPCA, S.C.R.A.T.C.H, etc. These are good people who really really gave their time to save these animals. Of course, I have a personal affection for PAWS. I volunteered there a couple of times during uni. It broke my heart seeing those cats, but I was glad I did it.</span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="text-align: left; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="text-align: left; "> So, come on, let's go!</span></div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-73647026483126263092011-12-17T20:21:00.000-08:002011-12-18T18:26:28.425-08:00Malakoff RunI wished the hills didn't have to go down, because I had to walk. <div><br /></div><div> Ran with my dad, went after Subuh, and parked alongside the road. We had about 20 mins to warm up and stuff and I felt so thirsty. I was a bit worried but then I've had workout sessions when I was absolutely parched and survived so it was ok. Left my dad after my time was called, wished him good luck, not without asking him to calm down and stop running if his knees hurt. What can I say, like father like daughter.</div><div><br /></div><div> I love this route. I know what would come so I know exactly how my pacing should be. Initially I wanted to run at race pace but my knees absolutely won't let me have it. the first hill up was good, and so were the other hills. The killer one was the last steep at the junction. I ran all the way, only shuffling - that's my term for not really walking not really running hahah taknak kalah - downhills. Urgh, I wish I could run.</div><div><br /></div><div> This race justifies that I am a cyclist not a runner. The hills felt so much easier on wheels. This wasn't the case when I was running. I cycled this route up and felt that running was much more easier because you can control your leg power and your thighs don't get murdered. But now since I cycle up hills so often running uphills felt labored! at least cycling there's a coasting period downhill. Easy on the knees too.</div><div><br /></div><div> I didn't pace anyone, just went on my way alone. I upped the pace at the last 500m but I knew it was a lost case in terms of timing. Water stations were aplenty, the guys friendly and the race well organized I must say. No MILO!! WHY?</div><div><br /></div><div> Dad did well, same timing. Well, that's the best we can do with moody knees. I came back and did an hour long stretch, complete with a headstand. WOOT.</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-90546610569173456262011-12-15T19:31:00.000-08:002011-12-15T21:43:44.147-08:00Other RunnersFor no apparent reason, been excited to start looking at running events again. Maybe it's chatting with other runners, maybe it's just boredom, or maybe I got my groove back, or maybe it's because I have money to spare.<div><br /></div><div> At SS class today I chatted with another runner, a lady with bad knees too. I knew her through the SS class, but because of running we become chatting buddies. We discussed bad knees, running events, organizers, water stations, hilly routes, anything about running you could ever imagine, even FMVs and running in sarongs. Needless to say, all these talking make me miss running. It was so nice to have a talk with someone who understands the addiction, who knew what it feels like to miss miles when training for races. But we both have fallen under the category of runners who couldn't care less - who will run when they feel like it, training be gone.</div><div><br /></div><div> Anyway to be honest I am kind of addicted to my SS class. There's something about having to nail each and every tough poses that kind of keeps me hooked. I like the relation between the SS practice and life. In SS you can never force your body into doing something they just wouldn't and it's knowing when to hold back that is valuable. Because I was trained to be competitive with myself and between peers, sometimes I do not know when to reign it in. Injury sets in. I'm trying to listen to my body more by giving it the freedom to play a lot of sports without setting myself to any hard specifics.</div><div><br /></div><div> Two weeks of annual leave! What do you think I would do - cycle of course!! And a lot of other sports again. Thank God for this ability. </div><div><br /></div><div> </div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-20260932449986501122011-12-12T18:31:00.000-08:002011-12-12T20:22:13.462-08:00Weekend WorkshopThis weekend I had fever, and also an amazing workshop.<div><br /></div><div> Have been anticipating this workshop for a month or so. It was led by one of the prominent figures in the world of Strengthening and Stretching, although she hailed from a strong Yoga background. The workshop ran for 2 hours each on Saturday and Sunday. I've been prepping myself for the workshop by practicing some of the poses that I thought she would have on the class, just so I wouldn't have a hard time working on it.</div><div><br /></div><div> The Saturday class started off with the normal series of poses, all which were too familiar for me yet under her breathing instructions I was struggling. She had asked all of us on our injuries and our rehabilitation goals and silently she worked the class adjusting our poses; opening our hips, chests, torso, etc. For the past few months I have been nursing this sore and tender pain at the fold of my left thigh which now I know to be called as Pectineus Muscle and they tend to flare up during a particularly active week. It is also affecting the nerves at the back of my leg, especially in poses where I have to do a deep squat. In the workshop while I was doing a Fish Pose with a Lotus, she came over and pressed down on my left knee, saying that my left hip is tight. And THAT is the reason behind every single aches and pains of my left leg. In the fight between the knees and hips, the hips will always win and this tightness in my left hip causes the my left knee to rotate unnaturally. Hence, knee pain.</div><div><br /></div><div> Ever since I've been doing the SS class religiously, I've noticed that all other sports sorta takes the backseat. Previously, I balanced running, swimming and cycling together to create a harmonious effect - swimming for my breathing, running for my stamina and endurance and cycling for strength - but after being hooked to the simple systems of SS I find that I get all three including flexibility. Of course, you can't replace the sheer extremeness of speed workouts of running in this, but you do get very very sweaty, and tired, in SS. If I tried doing the complete one series (which is about 40++ poses), it would take me about 2 hours, and that is minus 10+ poses I couldn't do yet.</div><div><br /></div><div> Anyway, the reason I was mulling about it is that I've signed up for yet another running event this month. I haven't been running since MPSJ. I do get worried since it is a hilly route, and to think that I've stopped all other forms of exercise. I am not worried about my fitness base; I worry on sustaining the speed I set for the timing I want. If I didn't have any expectations, I wouldn't even bother. I guess it's either to start running or stop having expectations.</div><div><br /></div><div> Till the next time, or run, or swim or cycle or SS!</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-50525187532185596152011-12-05T02:31:00.000-08:002011-12-05T02:49:12.831-08:00MPSJ RunI had a great time.<div><br /></div><div> Probably because the event location is just 5 minutes walk from our home. And it's a 10k, my favorite distance. (To be honest right now 21k is a marathon distance!) And it's small, so I bet there will be Milo (I thought wrong. So disappointed.)</div><div><br /></div><div> The race started out nice and light. Saw no one famous, except for an ex ironman and his hot young thing, but I saw a lot of schoolmates and teachers from my school. We all live in the same area after all. The course had no serious incline, only very minor false flats, but one puny downhill. I started out targeting my pacers. After 3km, saw this lady who kept a very even pace - even during small downhills. She was so even, I got so relaxed. I ran by her side long enough to realize she might be annoyed with me, so I struck out a conversation. I told her I've been pacing her. We ended up deciding to run together so I could pace correctly and she could run faster at the end (my idea - told her let's pick up a few 100ms before)</div><div><br /></div><div> The route was nice - one big loop around major usj areas. the downside of knowing the route is that you know when it's going to end and at one point I was dying to stop knowing it's still far away. I made a promise to run the whole 10km to see if I still have the stamina. The traffic was light and water stations plenty but kept small - a few times crowds were bigger than the water station (1 table). One junction was unpatroled (spelling? or does this word even exist?) thank God there were no cars.</div><div><br /></div><div> When we reached the last 300m, I decided to run a little bit faster. My knees were hurting at that point and so were my ankles. I crossed the line at 62 minits. Not my best timing and despite the fact that I should be happy with the fact that it does not suck my ego still wish I could hit lower than 60minutes. don't we all.</div><div><br /></div><div> The bad news is that I have overworn my five fingers. The toes are out of their toe sockets and thank god i have a spare ff. I realized that I've been using them for nearly 3 years. What a good investment since I don't really need to change them often. Harris wants me to run wearing shoes but I have grown so accustomed without them I just couldn't.</div><div><br /></div><div> Anyway, I had a good SS session last Saturday. I am serious about it being one of the hardest sports in the world. I have newfound respect for yogis, dancers, or gymnasts these days. Too often we endurance athletes think that our sports is the cream of the crop, but seriously. One of my favorite athlete, who is a triathlon coach and a top triathlete for her age group in the states (she did so well for the ironman kona) said that she picked up pole dancing after her racing season as an 'active rest' and she was so blown away by the difficulty level. Imagine doing the 'flag' - where your body is parallel to the pole, arms straight. Kau mampuuuu??</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-5036898538145407902011-12-01T20:12:00.000-08:002011-12-01T22:42:43.669-08:00T-2 daysCan you tell that I am excited? Probably because it is the first event in this year. It's not a big event, more to a small neighborhood run, but nevertheless I am looking forward to run with the crowd.<div><br /></div><div> Bad news is, my left knee is feeling the pain. Oh well, old stuff, isn't it. Truth to be told I'm sort of used to it. I had planned to run last thursday and monday but since the pain was there I decided to not risk it and concentrated on some other cardio. The last thing I need is to hobble in pain the whole of Sunday run. That will not be a great first event of the year.</div><div><br /></div><div> Today during SS class we made a whole lot of good progress. I am particularly proud of myself for getting this far. The most obvious improvements are the fact that my upper body strength has doubled and my hamstrings are not tight anymore. I am also much more energized and aware of my physical abilities and limitations in running, cycling, etc. Ok, I sound like I am in a cult.</div><div><br /></div><div> So to compensate for not running for the looming event, I plan to:</div><div>1) swim (this benefits my cardio)</div><div>2) light cycling on light gears (this will just prepare my legs - or it can aggravate the knee.)</div><div><br /></div><div>We'll see how it goes!</div><div><br /></div><div>Good bit: At the end of the SS class, the instructor told us to forgive someone we never even think of forgiving, that perhaps, by forgiving that person, we can focus our concentration instead to get better in our sports. What a good piece of advice!</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-24620765284645957252011-11-29T23:10:00.001-08:002011-11-29T23:34:27.717-08:00ObsessionLast night was SS class. As always, 90 minutes felt like... 20 minutes. I am starting to get really obsessive with this, just like I was obsessed with every other sports I happen to try. When I first started swimming, I got so obsessed I literally had this software of a dude swimming in place in my laptop. You click on it and see him from top, side and front, to see the perfect quadrant and his alignment and stroke and what not. I watched probably millions of youtube videos on how to improve my body roll, bilateral breathing, etc etc.<div><br /></div><div> When I got obsessed with cycling I read cycling biographies a lot. I wasn't as obsessed with the techniques of this sport like I was with swimming, but I would get excited looking at videos of cyclists doing their long distance rides. What appealed about cycling was what running once appealed to me - the suffering through the long distance. It wasn't about speed - I will never be fast - but it was more to how long I could hold on and the triumph I felt at the end. Cycling has trumped running to be my number one relaxing outdoor sport and will always remain.</div><div><br /></div><div> I got obsessed with karate too. I was also obsessed with kickboxing. I was obsessed with in-line skating. All of them now has been reduced to sports I play when I have all the time in the world a.k.a annual leave. Nevertheless I love all of them for different, unique reasons.</div><div><br /></div><div> One of the things I love about SS class is the rooting at the end of the class. After 90 minutes is over, we were asked to sit and reflect and let go of all arrogance that visited us when we were doing the poses. This was an amazing concept because I am highly competitive and always trying to be the best. This reminder forces me to focus only on myself and not other people. Sure enough the moment I felt chuffed about nailing some tough poses I lost my balance and falter, or fell altogether. The instructor always starts the class by asking us to find our intention. "If today your intention is to be more humble with this practice, with your strength and flexibility - then do so." I love it.</div><div><br /></div><div> I have registered myself to a couple of running events! It's going to be crazy and I'm sure I couldn't sleep well. It's been more than a year since I last ran socially. It has been 8 months since I last rode in a group too. Sometimes I miss it; there's no pressure, always for the scenery and social banter, but the time sucking doesn't sit well with my 'new' life. I am equally happy to be riding in a group of two, enjoying conversations.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-31512094313307390202011-11-28T17:02:00.000-08:002011-11-28T17:06:03.983-08:00Recap<b>Thursday:</b> 5.5k run. Felt kinda dragging, was really exhausted the whole day but just wanted to get in some kms.<div><br /></div><div><b>Friday:</b> SS class. As always, rocked it. Loves it. Managed to nail some intensely advanced poses YAY.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Saturday:</b> 1k swim. Could have - would have - done more but needed to to harris up from work. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sunday: </b>Missed the ride and slept instead. BAD!</div><div><br /></div><div><b> Monday:</b> Missed the run and... cleaned the whole house instead. SCORE!</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-34865743433833729622011-11-22T17:38:00.000-08:002011-11-22T17:46:49.829-08:00On TrackI blamed it on this advert I saw on Youtube. An normal, homey looking guy woke up dead in the morning and said, "I have a choice, a choice to either stay in and sleep, or wake up and run." He went on about what happened if he lost out that chances. Needless to say I was inspired.<div><br /></div><div> Monday morning and I roused up early at 545. It was hard, but I tell myself that this is the only time in the day I could squeeze in my exercise, and if I don't want to hate my sluggishness afterwards I have to do this and do IT. So I got up and did my prayers, and rounds of Sun Salutations. Sun Salutations are a great warm up tool, after 10 sets of them I was sweating. The run started out fabulously because I was warmed up. I ran and ran and just enjoyed the darkness and the walking aunties, so disciplined in their daily routine. I finished running and cooled down with a couple of stretches. Awesome.</div><div><br /></div><div> Revved up the whole day.</div><div><br /></div><div> Tuesday: SS class. This time around, I was less competitive and more intuitive. I made myself focus on only me, how I feel, what I could do, instead of comparing myself against others - I tend to do that a lot lately because I just wanted to be the best. That made me lose focus on the class and I did not improve. Last night though, it was great. Closed my eyes, and concentrated on working my self hard. </div><div><br /></div><div> </div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-36594538618972473822011-11-10T22:58:00.000-08:002011-11-11T00:01:19.900-08:00No CompetitionTuesday: SS class. It was insane. I hate it that I am naturally competitive with myself. I get mad that I couldn't do certain things.<div><br /><div>Thursday: Ran a normal 5.4k. It was low key and I was a bit tired from lack of sleep and a heavy day at work.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Friday: SS class. I was drenched. Nothing to say except that I want to be good at this fast... all for the right reason.</div><div><br /></div><div> I keep telling myself to not let my ego gets in the way. When I was a fast runner, I was a little bit too chuffed. And now I can't never ever get that speed again without being in a wheelchair afterwards. When I was at my 'peak' in cycling, I got a little bit too heady too, and then got into that accident where originally I planned to smoke people up the hills. We never got to go that hill, cause I crashed. And after a long break, I am slowly getting back to that level.</div><div><br /></div><div> Now my SS class. I signed up for the first series out of the six series and it's challenging. If you can do all the poses well, you can advance to the next level. But these poses are hard. They require you to engage body parts you wouldn't even imagine could be engaged, and sometimes your mind can't do them. I am told to come to the class with an open positive mind but sometimes I get disheartened... and it's supposed to HEAL me.</div><div><br /></div><div> I guess it comes to my intention. Do I do these sports so I could show off to people, or for myself and my health? After taking up the SS class, I try to reassess my goals and intention, everytime. It's easy to let your ego gets in the way. I guess I was a little bit into my head, trying to master all the sets just because if I did, it's considered awesome. And that's the reason why I never could.</div><div><br /></div><div> Anyways, looking forward for a great sports filled weekend.</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-28581457448405341772011-11-07T20:40:00.000-08:002011-11-07T20:50:00.041-08:00mental blockmy biggest enemy thus far is my own mental block. <div><br /></div><div> I only noticed it so much after taking up the strengthening class. In it, we are asked to do thousand of setups that require us to trust our bodies and self. Especially on the arm balancing part. So many times before a particular inversion pose - headstand, forearm stand, etc - I would literally say NO. Even when the instructor is holding me and guiding me I would whimper - no! - and then after much cajoling I got the guts to lift my legs up.</div><div><br /></div><div> The same thing applies to my cycling. During one of those treacherous routine of doing hill repeats it would be so easy for me to say NO and stop. I had to bark at myself inside to man up and repeat this drill even if I puked.</div><div><br /></div><div> I find it hard to have the discipline to challenge myself. And which is why, joining the strengthening and stretching class is the best decision I ever made. Everytime, I have to challenge myself to break my own record. It is myself against myself. I love this, slowly competing against my own worst enemy.</div><div><br /></div><div> Didn't do much the weekend. Failed to go running while Dad sneakily went cycling (cheater!). Routine ensues again this week, insyaAllah.</div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435422864570617099.post-78019563779378048162011-11-02T20:11:00.000-07:002011-11-02T20:25:50.116-07:00chasing the rain and sunset (and maghrib)Yesterday as I got off work I was like, "YOU MEAN IT'S NOT RAINING?"<div><br /></div><div>I quickly drove home, despite the traffic and everything, it still wasn't raining. I wanted to run! It was already nearly dark when I got home, with the looming cloud and everything, probably 635pm. I was still ecstatic that it wasn't raining. I changed and just as I was out of the gate, started to run.</div><div><br /></div><div> The feeling of being able to run after what it felt like ages of not running was awesome. My steps were springy, I felt blight and flighty, I was nearly humming. I ran behind a high school boy wearing the tshirt that says Mont Kiara FC. No doubt he was keeping fit. I made a bet with myself that he could only last about 6 loops max since most guys I know who are non runners can only last for 3km. So it began. We outpassed each other a few times before true enough, he got tired. </div><div><br /></div><div> I was always conscious of how my legs feel during a run. This time I assessed how they felt. I am happy to report that the usual knee pain and ankle have all but disappeared (albeit a bit on the inside, just a tinge) and instead I still had a strong running form. The sky was getting dark, many people have left. But I was adamant to run 10 loops to make it a normal 5.5k. I am starting to love running in this usj area. It ain't hilly like ss19, but much more peaceful.</div><div><br /></div><div> I was also chasing the rain and the sunset. I love to play this game; when you push push and push before the sun sets or the rain falls. An automatic interval. I think I ran a little bit faster than I would. I still feel strong, in fact I could have gone on longer. This could be the only time it doesn't rain! I told myself. I was really loving the run.</div><div><br /></div><div> When I finished, the rain was dancing softly on the roads, the streetlights were on, and the muezzin was calling out the prayer. It was such a beautiful feeling, and I am grateful I got to do this. </div>tolldollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06794034040419303743noreply@blogger.com2