http://www.jimsavage.com/index.htmlA place to show my recent Nike+ stats and share progress.enjim.savage@mac.comCopyright 2008 Jim Savage2008-08-17T15:26:34+01:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 15:33:20 +0100jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-08-17T15:26:34+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/index.html#unique-entry-id-49http://www.jimsavage.com/index.html#unique-entry-id-49
Stats:
Distance: 6k/3.7 miles
Time: 00:25:23
Pace: 6:48 per mile
Calories burnt: 504

I’m currently placed 6th at the time of posting this, maybe that’s enough to win myself some Nike gear ;)
Total runners so far: 86

Challenge can be viewed here]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-08-16T10:02:54+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/index.html#unique-entry-id-48http://www.jimsavage.com/index.html#unique-entry-id-48
I think I have a new found respect for long endurance runs, it’s weird feeling genuinely fit while running but your legs feel non existent underneath you... after running through the pain they just feel numb, non responsive but inside I still feel fit and want to continue running. Obviously my legs still need a lot more conditioning to match my cardiovascular levels.

It felt a slower run than my previous 16 miles, but my average pace was quicker at 7:35 per mile. My fastest mile came after mile 9, just after refueling with sports drink and a gel.

My full stats for the 18 miles:
Distance: 18.01 miles
Time: 2:16:29
Pace: 7:35 per mile
Calories burnt: 2414
Weight loss: 4lb.

I’m happy I’ve achieved a quicker pace over 18 miles compared to my previous 16, but for my next endurance run I really need to slow my pace further if I’m to cover more miles. :(
]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-08-02T13:24:27+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/index.html#unique-entry-id-47http://www.jimsavage.com/index.html#unique-entry-id-47
I felt surprisingly good, I kept my pace slow and tried not to think about the distance ahead... I knew a 16 mile run at my current pace would take me at least 2 hours so I concentrated more on time rather than mileage, I think that helped.

I’ve also began to introduce energy gels into my marathon training on the advice of a book I’m reading, you can see on the Nike+ graph that my pace actually increased after the halfway mark after consuming the gel, completing my first ever negative split, when the second half of your route was run faster than the first.

My full stats for the 16 miles:
Distance: 16.02 miles
Time: 2:01:24
Pace: 7:53 per mile
Calories burnt: 2148
Weight loss: 6lb.

If I can continue to maintain the same pace at the New York Mararthon, my predicted time would be:
3:26:41

I wish! :)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-07-18T21:02:25+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-46http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-46Kielder Castle, I’ve cut today’s long run of 14 miles down to 6 (10k). I’ll give myself a full days rest tomorrow and time to fuel up!

I’m looking forward to this race, another chance to run in my trail shoes ;)

Update: 28/JULY/2008
Just added photos of the Kielder 15k to the gallery.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-07-09T10:01:18+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-45http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-45
You can view and enter the challenge from my challenge page:
http://www.jimsavage.com/nikeChallenges/challenges.html

The challenge ends on the 15th July... but the good news is if you join now, any runs you have made since the challenge started will also be logged, so all is not lost ;)

"The Great North Run is one of the most famous and respected events in the UK running calendar.

This year’s event is completely sold out. But thanks to the Nike+ Great Runs Contenders Series, you could earn tickets to this iconic event. And announce yourself as a Great Runs Champion." - Nike]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-07-08T12:35:16+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-44http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-44
http://www.marathonmovie.com/home.html

"Four years in the making, Spirit of the Marathon is the collaborative effort of three-time Academy Award winner Mark Jonathan Harris, Telly Award winner and marathon runner Jon Dunham and producer/marathoner Gwendolen Twist."

"As six unique stories unfold, each runner prepares for and ultimately faces the challenge of the Chicago Marathon. More than a sports movie, Spirit of the Marathon is an inspirational journey of perseverance and personal triumph; a spectacle that will be embraced by runners and non-runners alike."]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-07-07T09:24:20+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-43http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-43
Jim Savage: 46:43
Position 49 out of 337

Fastest male:
James Riley: 34:38

Fastest female:
Anna Frost: 37:21

Download results (excel file).]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-07-04T12:15:13+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-42http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-42http://www.flickr.com/photos/musicaljourney/sets/72157605388641687/

Photos of the Mersey Tunnel 10k, photographed by Pio Cardoza.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-07-04T10:47:33+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-41http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-41
The first 2-3k was a steep incline, climbing to what seemed like the highest point in Delamere as the view on the way down was just utterly stunning, it was an evening run so the sun was low, it was an amazing sight to see the trees and countryside below.

The last 4k was through more dense forest trails, wide enough for just one runner at times. As we got deeper into the forest the light wasn't so bright... jumping rocks, water and tree roots have given my legs a good workout, it beats my regular interval training on the road.

Some images now in the gallery, apologies for the poor quality... I only had my iPhone with me and had to store it away during the race.

Race Time:
46mins (awaiting official time)
That is a much better time than I had anticipated considering my PB (road race) is 43:32! only 3+ mins slower ;)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-07-02T15:39:09+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-40http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jul-2008#unique-entry-id-40Delamere Forest, the Saab/Salomon 10k Forest Trail.

I'm REALLY looking forward to it, my few experiences of rural running has already taught me that I need a different type of running shoe as my standard running shoes struggled with the rougher terrain. I've opted for a pair of Salomon XA Pro 3D.

I'll be running a steady pace, not too hard... and absorbing the new scenery!]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-06-29T20:43:25+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-39http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-39
Shortly after I could feel pain in my ankles, lower back and shins... my pace was slowing, I kept going but finally threw in the towel about 7 miles into my run, I wanted to fight it out but I believe in listening to your body... my body was certainly telling me to stop, picking up an injury during Marathon training would be foolish.

I feel so disappointed, I'm resting now in preparation for the Saab/Salomon10k Forest trail on Thursday night (Delamere Forest).]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-06-23T21:07:51+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-38http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-38Alberto Salazar has often described the short 5k race to be the toughest of them all. We run many miles each week trying to perfect our form and rhythm while running, helping us to run further and further but a quick 5k can turn all of that on it's head. Why? simply because it's too short! It takes me over 3 miles to reach my peak pace with a good sustainable rhythm.

As an example, yesterday I decided to run 5k as quick as I could... performing rather badly, today I ran 10k at a much faster average pace than my 5k! I ran double the distance, but much quicker.. weird eh?

Next time I go for a 5k personal best, I'll run 5k at a slow warm up pace first... I'm convinced this will work.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-06-21T09:03:57+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-37http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-37Metropolitan Cathedral in the centre of Liverpool, down to the Mersey and along the docks past the new Liverpool Arena to the famous Liver birds, before heading back up North to where I live.

All was well when my Nike+ suddenly reported "workout complete", just after the halfway point of 5 miles.
I had to stop, unstrap my back-pack and fiddle about with the Nano to start another workout of 5 miles. So my online stats will report my last run at 5 miles (instead of the planned 10).

Annoying!]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-06-14T08:34:47+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-36http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-36
The annoying thing about the Sportband is that you can only calibrate the device on a computer AND only with your last workout so I had to take my macbook along with me to adjust the calibration after walking so it was ready for a running calibration. This is not needed for the Nano.

I tested the Nano today with a nice long 12 miler, the furthest I've ever ran with my back-pack and the results were much better, so far... I think the calibration has worked. I'll keep you posted.

Both devices gave good accurate results at the start of my running, but now... I'm averaging a much quicker pace and I just think they both needed a kick up the arse to keep up ;)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-06-02T08:54:23+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-35http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-3543:32 (Avg pace: 7:00 per mile)

Overall Position:
173 of 1838

Category Position:
105 of 837 (MOPEN)

Gender Position:
170 of 1355 (Males)

--

Total Participants:
1838

Fastest Time:
00:34:34 (only 9 mins quicker than me!)

Official website results:
http://www.tdl.ltd.uk/

race: Mersey Tunnel 10k
race number: 206
]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-06-01T18:41:58+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-34http://www.jimsavage.com/files/jun-2008#unique-entry-id-34
The tunnel was a great experience for me, I must have driven through it a thousand times, running through it was amazing. There were the usual shouts of "Oggy Oggy Oggy!" reminiscent of the Great North Run 07. ;) The approach in was easy running downhill, then midway it began to level out and then.... a really tough incline, watching other runners dropping out just gave me the will to carry on.

I crossed the finish line on 44mins (previous PB was 47mins), I reckon my actual chip time will be about 43+ given the time it took to pass the start line.

All in all, a fantastic run, really enjoyable. If I'm still running next year I'll be doing this race again.
(pic in the gallery)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-30T23:06:38+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-33http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-33
Donation page:
http://www.justgiving.com/jimsavage

When I hit a bad patch and start to struggle while running, I try to visualise the names and donation amounts of all the people who have sponsored me so far, such a powerful motivator and it works.

I'm so proud to be raising so much for a worthy charity.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-28T12:44:12+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-32http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-32Liverpool's Mersey Tunnel, I'm a local lad so I'm quite excited about running through the tunnel. I won't be trying for a personal best, I think I'll just enjoy this one.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-22T07:52:57+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-31http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-31http://www.runnersworld.co.uk/news/article.asp?UAN=3470

Get some advice and be prepared for the great British Summer.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-20T20:54:24+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-30http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-30Having failed to get into the marathon via the public ballot I managed to secure a place via charity. Choosing a charity was quite difficult, I wanted to choose a charity I could relate with, so as a father of two I knew I wanted to run for a charity in support of children.

I'll be running for Phab, in support of Phabkids, creating opportunities for disabled people to enjoy the same opportunities and challenges as able-bodied and bring them together on equal terms.

I'll be setting up an online donation page soon via www.justgiving.com

Any charity that has Rolf Harris as a vice president is fine by me ;)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-14T19:24:28+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-29http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-29
Weather was hot so I decided to leave my back-pack behind. A couple of more weeks and I'll be doing these runs regular once again (with back-pack)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-09T21:01:43+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-28http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-28http://www.runnerplus.com/

It will sync with your Nike+ account and offer extra features not found on the Nike+ website.

I've just signed up, the features look promising... I'll write a proper review once I've played with it for a while.

You can view my RUNNER+ page at:
http://jimmymac.runnerplus.com/]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-09T20:24:59+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-27http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-27I've started to run daily, but kept each run to a short burst of around 2 miles (2.3 miles to run around my estate).
Short/fast runs are good for building strength, this is also helping me to get through the massive decline I've been experiencing recently.

Since playing football, my running ability has nose dived... short/fast runs are slowly getting me to improve and I'll be back to my former self soon!

I'm still waiting to hear if I've been accepted into the New York marathon, I'll find out this month and keep you all posted.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-05-01T19:52:39+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-26http://www.jimsavage.com/files/may-2008#unique-entry-id-26
I've decided to shorten my runs (3 milers), but I'll keep them very regular. I find out this month if I've been accepted into the New York Marathon, I'll decide then where to take my training.

PS... I've now worn out my Nike+ trainers and have just ordered a pair of NIKE AIR STRUCTURE TRIAX+ 10.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-04-21T12:22:02+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-25http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-25
Luckily, there is a calibration option... I guess I need to fiddle with that.
I'll keep you posted.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-04-16T12:05:44+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-24http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-24
Pros:
Quick/easy to setup
Press & run... no ipod menu's to fiddle with (no headphone wires)
Good value, only £40.00 and comes with an extra running chip for your shoe.
Easy to pause/resume workouts
Very quick to upload info to Nike... plug in to usb - upload - pull out. (no clicking required)

Cons:
Small screen, hard to read at a glance

The sportband doesn't come with batteries that can be replaced, instead it charges from the USB port. I've had no issue's yet with battery life.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-04-14T13:24:20+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-23http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-23Just bought myself a new gadget, the Nike+ Sportband. Released here in the UK on the 10th of April.
It allows you to use your Nike+ shoes without an ipod, and costs considerably less than a new ipod (just £40).

The last race I ran banned ipods completely, so this little gizmo would have been useful.
I'll go out for a test run later tonight and let you know what I think.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-04-13T20:57:30+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-22http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-22
Run:
10.01 miles
8:04 per mile (avg.)
1342 cals]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-04-09T21:12:13+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-21http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-21
Run: (with back-pack)
6.03 miles
8:15 per mile (avg.)
808 cals]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-04-07T20:17:15+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-20http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-20I've decided to ease myself back in with some regular 10k's (run home from work).

Then in a couple weeks or so, I'll start stretching the distance... I really WANT to run a marathon this year.

I took a slight detour from work today, cutting through Croxteth Park... I really enjoyed it, something nice about running across farmland and stables after work, very pretty. I really noticed how light it was... it's amazing what a difference a week makes, dare I say it... but it almost felt like summer!

Run: (with a back-pack)
6.57 miles
8:07 per mile (avg.)
880 cals.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-04-05T21:45:59+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-19http://www.jimsavage.com/files/apr-2008#unique-entry-id-19
New training will be geared towards marathon running, slowing my pace... stretching my current distances.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-31T23:45:13+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-18http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-18
Gareth Raven: 1:06:29


Michelle Ross 1:12:50]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-30T19:04:02+01:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-17http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-17
It was a nice race to run, very rural... lot's of winding country lanes, the race itself was a little congested to start with, Wilmslow is more popular than I had expected, it took about 2mins or so just to reach the start line from the gun. I think I'd like to enter this race again next year and would fully recommend it to anyone.

Race time: 1:41:36
Gun Time: 1:44:00 approx]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-24T22:16:51+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-16http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-16Lakes with the family, swimming, cycling and building snowmen. After eating all that easter chocolate today's run was as expected... it felt heavy, I've got a bit of a cough which I hope I can shake off before this weekends half marathon at Wilmslow.

Today's run: 5.87miles (47:30)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-19T20:38:28+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-15http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-15sugar!
Try running 10k with 3 bags of sugar shoved in your pockets ;)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-17T20:20:28+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-14http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-14work when I suddenly stubbed my toe on a raised flag! In true commando style I found myself doing a forward roll... my back-pack acted like aerobic matt and cushioned my fall, I was quickly back on my feet and continued running. Apart from feeling like a prize banana no injuries were sustained. ;)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-16T15:10:35+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-13http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-13jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-09T21:15:41+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-12http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-12Cholinergic Urticaria, which can be caused by a combination of antibiotics & exercise.

I'm having such a sh*t week with aches & pains. Back to my regular 10k runs from work tomorrow.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-06T11:55:53+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-11http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-11calculator to help with my workouts, useful for calculating your pace when given a distance and time. It can also calculate distance or time when given the other variables.

Yes I know it's a bit geeky, but what does a web designer do now he can't run due to antibiotics! ;) I hope you find it useful.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-04T18:05:44+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-10http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-10
I've only got about 3 weeks to go for the Wilmslow Half Marathon, this is gonna be interesting.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-03T19:19:05+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-9http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-9http://www.tdl.ltd.uk

Official chip time:
01:39:19

Pace per mile:
00:07:35

I'm sooo pleased.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-03-02T14:33:25+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-8http://www.jimsavage.com/files/mar-2008#unique-entry-id-8
I couldn't have wished for a better time, I'm so pleased... completely surprised myself. In fact, almost too good to be true... I'll post my official chip time once it's announced.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-28T20:59:27+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-7http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-7Liverpool Half Marathon I know I'm supposed to be resting... but I can't help feeling the need to run, I'm scared my body will seize up from lack of excersise. I ran a very shot 2.7m, with a moderate speed of 8:00 mins per mile just to keep my body ticking over ;)

How paranoid am I?]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-26T20:48:03+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-6http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-6
Just got a reply from the NYC Marathon people, apparently I made a mistake in giving my official half marathon records during my application. I had entered 2008 instead of 2007 for my Great North Run entry.

Oops.. ;)]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-26T00:27:47+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-5http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-5New York Marathon came online today, did I apply? Of course! The results for overseas applicants will be anounced mid May, wish me luck!

The actual race is not until November 08.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-24T22:10:47+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-4http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-4Nike+ Stats). Felt surprisingly good afterwards, legs felt sore but fitness levels felt great! It's time to wind down my runs for this week in preparation for the Liverpool Half Marathon on Sunday. I might just do one or two runs before the big race. Must remember to stock up on carbs & water 2 days prior.]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-22T19:16:11+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-3http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-3]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-20T19:35:53+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-2http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-2Run Stats). It was a slower pace than the usual, hamstring feels absolutely fine, I'm glad I took the rest now. Feet feel a little sore/soft... need to toughen them up!]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-13T18:25:48+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-1http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-1> View certificate]]>jim.savage@mac.comBlog2008-02-19T21:25:46+00:00http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-0http://www.jimsavage.com/files/feb-2008#unique-entry-id-0Liverpool Half Marathon! I'll attempt a slow 10k tomorrow.

I've just got my race number and timing chip, now it feels real.]]>