Three Things Thursday: That's new to me

“Never be afraid to try something new. Remember that a lone amateur built the Ark. A large group of professionals built the Titanic.”
― Dave Barry

1. I did something Tuesday that, once upon a time, I only thought crazy people did: I ran twice in one day.

While I created my Martian half-marathon plan to include only three days of running as not to overwhelm me, I've been logging miles four days a week for more than a month. I like to run and I like that running more is making me stronger. However, this week was not looking good for my goal. I had two classes scheduled Wednesday, I'm trying out a new class Friday morning for work and I have Pump on Saturday. My only days to run were Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Period. (Incidentally, my run this morning didn't happen - thunderstorms and sleeping in happened.)

I could have just taken it for what it was, a busy week, but I decided to try something new - doubling up on runs. My first run was an easy morning run around the 'hood with Denali and Miles. Some people might call it a "junk miles" run but I think any time on your feet is a good thing.

I planned the second run to be after Miles went to bed but DST is wreaking havoc on our schedule. Mark agreed to put Boo Boo down and I took out Denali for a tempo effort. Five-minute warm-up, 30 minutes comfortably hard, 5-minute cooldown. It was tough, my pacing stunk and Denali was slow but I got it done and my average pace was 9:05.

2. My whole two-a-day thing continued Wednesday when I doubled up on classes at the gym where I take Body Pump. There was a boot camp-esque class, which I took the other week, and ... wait for it ... SPINNING.

I've never "spun" before but I have to say I liked it. It was challenging but you definitely get to control the workout with how much you turn up the dial and how much you put into it.

I guess I put a lot into it :)

Our ride was more of a strength ride with lots of hills and standing hills but I had fun. Spinning doesn't normally fit into my schedule but I think I might try to find a way a couple times a month.

3. And the other new thing this week? Oh, you know, just signing up for a marathon.

That's right. I'll be doing the Columbus Marathon in October. Yay ... I think.

I've actually been planning on doing this race for a while but finally bit the bullet and whipped out the credit card to register before fees went up. I'm equal parts excited and scared but, per Megan's advice on Twitter, I am going to skip the peeing of the pants and do a happy dance.

Side note: I've started a page with my upcoming races. You know, if you're interested.

Anything new with y'all?