Running at Redline

Last night's 10K run was a revelation. First, because it was really 11K! And secondly because I was adamant that I wasn't going to run beyond my self-imposed limit of 160 BPM. Last night was all heart rate, heart rate, heart rate. There was one stretch after a down hill where my running partner, Ron and I got a little carried away, but other than a couple of quick blips to 164, I kept it under 160 for the entire run.

Instead of just going fast, I concentrated on form, relaxation and breathing. The night was perfect for running, cool (12C/50F), clear and with just a hint of a breeze. Didn't need a vest and could have done it in a short sleeve shirt. Everybody just seemed to get into a groove. The miles flew by, not effortlessly, but easily, nonetheless.

We were a little stunned to find out that we finished the run in 49:56, just nipping under the fifty minute wire. But when I checked my Triax I was really stunned. It showed we had run 11.18K. Have to say we all felt really good about that! Afterwards, Ron, Michael, Warren and I celebrated with a little sushi and sashimi. And a little sake to wash it down.

Latest bit of interesting research I've done has been into the benefits of green tea. After this, I'll be drinking four cups a day!!!

Great articles on the benefits of drinking green tea.

http://my.webmd.com/content/article/99/105398.htm?action=related_link

http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/81/1/122

http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/70/6/1040

http://www.xtramsn.co.nz/health/0,,8004-4018584,00.html

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/ConsHerbs/GreenTeach.html

All those polyphenols and catechins can only be good for me, but I must say I am very intrigued by the thermogenic properties that recent studies have revealed.