I'm back - 8 km around Hoppers

Back into it today after about 10 days forced rest. I just wanted to run a lazy 8 k’s and late in the afternoon I headed out around the streets of Hoppers Crossing. As it turned out I ran an 8.5 km course in 39:42 which equates to a pace of 4:40 /km, so a little faster than I expected. I felt great though, legs were really refreshed and it felt like I could have gone for longer or maybe a little quicker. What I did notice though is what a difference a few days makes regarding heart rates. During this run I maxed out at 175 bpm and averaged 154 bpm. Slightly, well a lot, higher than normal but I think this is to be expected after a layoff.

Just prior to heading out I was preparing Mr. Garmin and wouldn’t you know there was no battery charge. This is my first run since getting the Garmin back in September last year where I haven’t worn it. Lucky I still have my Polar S620 and HRM, wore that and it still works. Without the Garmin it felt strange not being able to check my pace and attempt some mental arithmetic with times etc. I did know though that I was travelling faster than normal.

Wearing my new-ish Loco runners with doubled-up socks and not a problem (as opposed to my first few runs prior to my cruise).

I’d been inside all day and it just felt very cold outside and consequently I decided to wear a long sleeve shirt. On getting out the front door it wasn’t as cold as I thought but I couldn’t be bothered changing.

Stats as of 10 Apr 2006	km’s
Today	8.5
Prev 7 Days	8.5
Prev 28 Days	101.1
Apr 2006	8.5
YTD	767.3
Month Average 2006	191.8
Weekly Average 2006	48.0
Total (2001 – to date)	8508.4