Running in LA is different than it is in New York.  The town where I live in LA is near where the fictional characters of The Big Bang Theory live.  If I knew I could see Sheldon, Leonard, Raj and Wolowitz on the streets near me, I might be motivated to do the out-and-back run more often.  I’m sorry but Penny wouldn’t even get me off the couch.

Running, Big Bang Theory

I’d run more if I could see these guys on the streets where I live.  Image: Heavybm

I just don’t like the out-and-back run.  When I run, I want to get somewhere and cover my distance.  Ideally, once I’m done running, I enjoy walking to cool-down and then taking the lazy (wo)man’s way home with a train ride.  Moving to LA has put a serious cramp in my running style and I’m having a hard time making the necessary adjustments (even though it’s been over a year).

It’s embarrassing to admit that the lack of subway trains has impacted my running and not in a good way.   It’s easy to think that since the weather is gorgeous nearly every single day in LA, I run often but I don’t.  Sometimes it isn’t my injury that keeps me from running.  Sometimes it’s the damned out-and-back option.  Although I have no right to be incredulous about it, I still find the LA concept of driving to a place to run and then driving home unbelievably ludicrous.

NYC, subway, running

Image: Lrumiha

I need to find a way to get over this hurdle and right quick!  I’ve committed to a 200 mile Ragnar Relay with some serious runners in April and I’m determined not to let injury take me out this time!

Despite my dislike of the out-and-back run, I suspect I’ll be doing a lot of them given that October 1st will begin my 6 month training plan to get ready for my Ragnar.  I don’t have a plan together yet but I’m curious to see how strength training, cardio, fuel and hydration trials and different gear will affect my running.

Maybe I’ll get my friend (and fellow Ragnar team member) Jill @TreeFitness to give me some exercise advice when I see her at the FitSocial Conference this weekend?  If you have training advice that has worked for you, please let me know!  

There will be a lot more upcoming posts about running, fitness, food and music in the coming months so stay-tuned!

running, runchat, Awesome 80's Run

Self-inspiration –  Working to get back to the excited Pre-Race feeling!

Seriously, I want to do how you get yourself motivated on a daily basis to achieve a long-term goal (in fitness or in life)?