tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2165066382124333762024-02-19T14:43:31.539+13:00Just Don't Stop...Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.comBlogger261125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-51419558789747827102010-06-12T16:11:00.002+12:002010-06-12T16:14:16.885+12:00RainPouring with rain now but that's ok because in 7 hours I'm about to fly off to Indonesia for a week for work. Will be hectic - I'm taking my running shoes on the off-chance I get sneak a run in. <br /><br />Yesterday had a couple of vaccination jabs and am on anti-maleria drugs as a precaution. Knocking me about a little - went for a run with James this morning and the run was a bit substandard really.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-81543990433636253182010-06-01T07:13:00.003+12:002010-06-01T07:17:51.737+12:00Bike MaintenanceSmall amount of bike maintenance on the weekend. Sick of wearing splash back on the way to work fitted some mudguards ($25) and replaced the rear v brakes ($15). <br /><br />Another bonus of commuting by bike is the maintenance costs are cheap and you can do a lot of it yourself. Just in time too because its raining hard today.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdHNVo2W9UzJBXdXU8SDren3xrM5jvangvD7RcleXuaukDf-8_dYjjI7rm_NfoU7aLRgjuc2K_OV-WWCGux4NOf1Orpz7r8xq_oMPg0Zyi_UGUsWiXHathbw5Mu59smtX1CPpSq6Nywx6/s1600/bikemaintenance.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdHNVo2W9UzJBXdXU8SDren3xrM5jvangvD7RcleXuaukDf-8_dYjjI7rm_NfoU7aLRgjuc2K_OV-WWCGux4NOf1Orpz7r8xq_oMPg0Zyi_UGUsWiXHathbw5Mu59smtX1CPpSq6Nywx6/s400/bikemaintenance.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477514995314047586" /></a>Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-62774565609014216762010-05-15T11:39:00.004+12:002010-05-15T12:38:52.445+12:00Fast(ish)So I did the 1 mile (~1.6km) race challenge on dailymile called outrun the horde: <br /><a href="http://www.dailymile.com/challenges/1266-outrun-the-horde">http://www.dailymile.com/challenges/1266-outrun-the-horde</a><br /><br />This morning I mapped out a local course along my road and into the next, quietly wishing it was flat rather than undulating.<br /><br />Warm-up go was 7:29 (4:32 min/km). <br /><br />Took a deep breath, opened the taps, and put my foot down.<br /><br />5:57 for a 3:42min/km pace. <br /><br />Tough! Really breathing hard at the end and very clearly not used to that pace/effort. Still gives me hope to build up to a sub 20 5km run one day.<br /><br />Running fast(ish) does make you feel alive - and safe from zombies!Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-54877977674019091402010-05-14T21:28:00.010+12:002010-05-15T12:44:39.797+12:00Getting closerThe swimming must be helping, or perhaps it's the fast runs with Claude the Frenchman at work but I'm starting to get close to my short term goal weight of 83kg. For added incentive I have given myself a carrot of new running shoes when my physicsdiet gets to 83. Definitely motivation. Good weighing in daily in the 82-83 range regularly.<br /><br />My ultimate goal is to get back to my BM (before marriage) weight of 80kg. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUs8UIa5PmzS6R90x1npt748J9YTESYJIr0oLGx10VnswEJUnP2fmffLuIl_MCMrfdP-1Y9aDtJwj23JzMay5mUzZ1hinoKqR1jRtpW9rDob9Vv0L-SGPDnXP3c_6mqvsq0S6r3xyfXyN/s1600/physicsdiet14May2010.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMUs8UIa5PmzS6R90x1npt748J9YTESYJIr0oLGx10VnswEJUnP2fmffLuIl_MCMrfdP-1Y9aDtJwj23JzMay5mUzZ1hinoKqR1jRtpW9rDob9Vv0L-SGPDnXP3c_6mqvsq0S6r3xyfXyN/s400/physicsdiet14May2010.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471056764931058338" /></a><br /><br />Looking back it was only a few years ago that I was up at 100kg. A desk job and not enough exercise did that. Running has fixed that although I am finding the last few kg's are really hard to shed!<br /><br />In other news my friend J mentioned to me about the "Outrun the Horde" challenge on <a href="http://www.dailymile.com">DailyMile</a>. Basically you run the fastest mile to escape the horde! Someone has been watching too many zombie films but sounds like fun. I have never tried to run a mile flat out before so should be interesting. Will try tomorrow morning along a suburban stretch. Maybe I'll get close to 4min/k pace - 6.4min/mile (if I'm lucky...)Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-13427798342469845292010-05-08T10:09:00.002+12:002010-05-08T10:11:14.432+12:00Mean Sign<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWd8CGVeK0bIxGWy-hQlpmCpZRJUH30BPXs958RPLM6HSDcMGjbXNuWK_lYU6Qgp9XSab8YsP8Ang1qRyVEB029d7-ZNQwGmpzSea8L7g1Ku5hq0rpqt5Nq_o8yiXaa73747UfJ4YRFj5c/s1600/signage.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 394px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWd8CGVeK0bIxGWy-hQlpmCpZRJUH30BPXs958RPLM6HSDcMGjbXNuWK_lYU6Qgp9XSab8YsP8Ang1qRyVEB029d7-ZNQwGmpzSea8L7g1Ku5hq0rpqt5Nq_o8yiXaa73747UfJ4YRFj5c/s400/signage.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468653955547102562" /></a><br /><br />From my run this morning. Wasn't <span style="font-style:italic;">that</span> bad 4:55min/k for 13.3km<br /><br />:)Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-83275715016843657782010-05-05T06:31:00.004+12:002010-05-05T06:41:05.909+12:00Dance CardIt seems like people want to go running with me at lunchtime. Most of the time I go running alone so this makes a good change.<br /><br />Last week a run through Parnell with Ray. Ray is from another department at work (we were in the same "team" for the corporate tri). That was a relatively easy pace on an undulating course.<br /><br />Yesterday the Frenchman and I did a relatively quick out and back along the waterfront (flat). He is a sharp 10km runner and I sweated a bit to keep up - we on about 4:40 pace. Good for me being pushed along. A little embarrassing considering he is 50 but offset that he has been running since he was a kid. I put it down to those 15 years of additional conditioning!<br /><br />Today my friend J wants to head out as his company has just moved into the area. Should be good.<br /><br />My dance card of midweek runs is full this week. :)Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-29197150039123942932010-05-03T05:42:00.004+12:002010-05-03T05:52:26.037+12:00A sure sign of getting oldOn my "long" run yesterday I thought a good idea to help pass the time to listen to the BBC World News podcast. It was actually quite good catching up with current events and I might even do it next week.<br /><br />I'm a little worried that the next step is writing cranky letters to the editor.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-85925609973366092552010-05-01T11:08:00.002+12:002010-05-01T11:12:44.916+12:00One for the AussiesNot fitness related but this is a long running advert on New Zealand TV for Mitre 10 a hardware chain.<br /><br /><object width="400" height="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/UT6oZqYij8U&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/UT6oZqYij8U&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="320"></embed></object>Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-82110202804039833282010-05-01T06:35:00.002+12:002010-05-01T06:37:49.070+12:00Winning is Finishingand finishing is winning! <br /><br />Video from the <a href="http://www.aucklandmarathon.co.nz">Auckland Marathon</a> 2009:<br /><br /><object width="400" height="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SLALVM8xpF0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SLALVM8xpF0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="320"></embed></object><br /><br />Actually "winning" this year, for me at least, will be going sub 3:30...Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-40788503751372004802010-04-30T06:15:00.008+12:002010-04-30T06:25:21.182+12:00YikeBikeThis is a pretty clever fold-away penny-farthing type vehicle. Designed here in New Zealand and clever how it folds away for you to carry. <a href="http://www.yikebike.com">http://www.yikebike.com/</a>. Apparently available mid 2010 and will set you back 3000 UK pounds!<br /><br />Bad luck for the cyclist in this video having both wheels stolen.<br /><object width="400" height="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/X813eTuZJkc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/X813eTuZJkc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="320"></embed></object><br /><br />I'll stick to my pushbike though for the health benefits and it's a lot lot cheaper. A good lock and common sense will deter most bike thieves.<br /><br />I have seen the odd pushbike bastardised with a two-stroke motor. I think it's just wrong. The hills in Auckland are not that bad especially with the range of gearing most bikes have.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-16210916357471642502010-04-29T22:39:00.004+12:002010-04-29T22:49:35.320+12:006km of EverythingToday I did a lunchtime 6km run with a work colleague. Nothing so special in that but this run had a bit of everything.<br /><br />- Forest<br />- Coast<br />- A small historic cemetery<br />- A rose garden and other parks<br />- Suburban houses<br />- Office Buildings<br /><br />Quite a few steps too!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZO-1qB5SXt-wGgacPwK8FuF_vyDJjXHv_m-NY_f2sHnt6fUKvWjbL-ftkZE_uiH-rVSRhzRLcJWNTBm8cTDC00y5qhNeVWFecDoO8_fevv4WLcFqPsEPiZR8PtP3U2UaK8EDmW0XHGOW4/s1600/6k.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZO-1qB5SXt-wGgacPwK8FuF_vyDJjXHv_m-NY_f2sHnt6fUKvWjbL-ftkZE_uiH-rVSRhzRLcJWNTBm8cTDC00y5qhNeVWFecDoO8_fevv4WLcFqPsEPiZR8PtP3U2UaK8EDmW0XHGOW4/s400/6k.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465509291279326482" /></a><br /><br />I really felt like I had been on an adventure on this run. This route is definitely a keeper.<br /><br />Auckland really is a great place get out for a run.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-75845931643655784812010-04-27T21:34:00.003+12:002010-04-27T21:36:08.927+12:00Starting PointSwam 2km (80 lengths of 25m pool) in 42:12. Non consecutive and quite slow I suspect but it's a starting point. I aim to improve on this in the coming weeks.<br /><br />No running today - resting my feet.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-83249405686828075732010-04-25T19:01:00.005+12:002010-04-25T19:17:28.711+12:00Impossible is NothingTook the plunge and entered:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0cQQjfmt8C4av4PBbc1V_FTRIpaEe2w3ySPMyhstQjbHlGcqb12VLvQzdJHbWcK1-eksIA7g3KY7ttzjrPmoer4G6z3DTOoihX7I2HYEBuaRTC384JPZyo3vu0rFw21kTOA0ebLH6gps/s1600/auckland2010.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 108px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0cQQjfmt8C4av4PBbc1V_FTRIpaEe2w3ySPMyhstQjbHlGcqb12VLvQzdJHbWcK1-eksIA7g3KY7ttzjrPmoer4G6z3DTOoihX7I2HYEBuaRTC384JPZyo3vu0rFw21kTOA0ebLH6gps/s400/auckland2010.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463968243464466866" /></a><br /><br />This year I'm aiming for sub 3:30 (from last year's inaugural 3:43 effort). I learned quite a lot during the training such as the importance of the long slow run. I didn't always put things into practice as well as I should have though.<br /><br />On the plus side its a few months away and time enough to start building up the required base. On the negative side I'm now lumped in with the 35-39 "old timer" group. <br /><br />Have been really getting back into regular running. The novelty of posting via <a href="http://www.dailymile.com">dailymile</a> is helping the motivation.<br /><br />This Saturday went for a run along Westhaven with my friend J who is a speedy HM running. Managed to hang on for 8.5km run at 4:25min/km pace, hadn't done that for a while and it was good.<br /><br />Today was more intentionally more circumspect a slower 17.1km at 5:35min/km pace. A bit of off road stuff along the Hobson Bay shoreline. Somewhat of an obstacle course with the pohutukawa's but a fun little running adventure.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv5RtJym6bW4iCcSnH7XNNktj-QvPF050ENzQC0s7uSXcnq1h5ChIICRpnnMKthPi4GkNhXVtkA27kur19JU39zh-m1Rpf4uHBeDEoX5HSAftjWj3AZczoTtvZLdsXBP4FqhGBukmRFvBg/s1600/hobson.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv5RtJym6bW4iCcSnH7XNNktj-QvPF050ENzQC0s7uSXcnq1h5ChIICRpnnMKthPi4GkNhXVtkA27kur19JU39zh-m1Rpf4uHBeDEoX5HSAftjWj3AZczoTtvZLdsXBP4FqhGBukmRFvBg/s400/hobson.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463970107299018226" /></a><br /><br />Haven't been back swimming since the shambles in the sprint tri but am going to get to the pool this week. Something I definitely want to get better at.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-49547006982406733702010-04-19T22:51:00.004+12:002010-04-21T05:09:56.805+12:00Sprint TriSo on Sunday I did a "Sprint Tri" in Mission Bay. It was the first time I've tried a triathlon or any sort of multi-sport. This was the <a href="http://www.peoplestri.com">People's Tri</a> which consisted of 500m sea swim, 20km bike, and a 5km run all on the flat. Work had organised free entry earlier in the year and I figured it sounded like a good idea at the time. <br /><br />I finished in 1:20:44 which was well back in the field. But I wasn't last.<br /><br />Swim:<br /><br />I found out fairly quickly that swimming 500m in the ocean is not the same as 500m in the pool. There are waves, masses of people, and the water is salty. Actually had a bit of a panic attack after a mouthfull or three of seawater and not being able to touch the bottom. The time for the swim was about 17 mins which including a minute or two run to the beach and putting my shoes on for the bike. About 4-5 minutes slower than it should have been. Quite embarrassing really.<br /><br />On the plus(?) side I was only one of about 4 or 5 people I saw doing the thing without a wetsuit and just in togs. It wasn't that cold (18 deg C) but the added buoyancy may have helped. <br /><br />Lesson for next time is to do some open water swimming before the event...<br /><br />Bike:<br /><br />Not bad considering it was on my hybrid commuter bike with pannier rack. Not the worst bike of the day but it was close. Averaged 29 km/hr in total including the turnaround points on the laps. Passed a surprising number of people on much flasher bikes than me which was good stuff. That said there a few people of very flash bikes that overtook me like I was standing still. Those guys must have been doing 50+.<br /><br />Run:<br /><br />5km run on the flat is nothing really. However coming off a 41 min flat out bike ride the legs were quite tight. Took it easy for the first part of the run - could feel cramp might be an issue, then pushed the pace a bit once the legs felt a bit better. Passed a few more people. The run was probably in the order of 22-23 minutes.<br /><br />Overall the tri was good fun especially since work paid the entry fee. I didn't train properly for it and it showed. The transition from the bike to the run was a bit ugly. The swim was the worst though and I really need to work on that. Not into triathlon enough to justify a competitive bike but I will enter again next year. <br /><br />Certainly room for improvement.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-277759552245516272010-04-04T12:50:00.007+12:002010-04-04T13:02:05.584+12:00An Assault on 8383kg that is. <br /><br />Ultimately I want to get to 80 but its turning out to too big a short-term target. So I'm aiming for 83 first. <br /><br />Easter eating doesn't help but running up hills balances does so overall moving in the right direction.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmndo4RmH3B49M1FRNvgz4xrcj6FV0obH671hO6Wg0g-I7BHXAizxi9ntOk8kUq7dnEYwLja4CQlk-wTykQmtHcv_vONnnW6OAFhqmMjh7o5VbbkuuC9IbIcpmPaDgAVp5NEPGcG9Tqmg/s1600/20100404.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmndo4RmH3B49M1FRNvgz4xrcj6FV0obH671hO6Wg0g-I7BHXAizxi9ntOk8kUq7dnEYwLja4CQlk-wTykQmtHcv_vONnnW6OAFhqmMjh7o5VbbkuuC9IbIcpmPaDgAVp5NEPGcG9Tqmg/s400/20100404.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456080036365835522" /></a><br /><br />Run up Big King today a small volcanic cone near my house. Been in quite a positive mood the last few days which has been helping get me out the door to go running. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAk0tTITYQjfoocdXJOGjE8FP89K707zNBHKfTmnxVg6WF1hbzcM9yIjRaguvZ5dULqsggOCgL8hxj6zBp8oAkvC92aYhyPlmhD3TUPBYQ6_2tvaJTqUf3rNE-sCZfbSdsqArkJ_hCbKg/s1600/bigking-small.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAk0tTITYQjfoocdXJOGjE8FP89K707zNBHKfTmnxVg6WF1hbzcM9yIjRaguvZ5dULqsggOCgL8hxj6zBp8oAkvC92aYhyPlmhD3TUPBYQ6_2tvaJTqUf3rNE-sCZfbSdsqArkJ_hCbKg/s400/bigking-small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456080447150261234" /></a>Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-77504497281602803152010-04-02T21:01:00.005+13:002010-04-02T21:16:51.197+13:00Easter ChallengePhysical challenge to myself this 4 day Easter Weekend - run 4 volcanoes in 4 days, do a 20km cycle, and do two swims. Could be tough but it wouldn't be a challenge if it was easy :)<br /><br />Started off the right way with a 14k run up and around Mt Eden at around 5min/km pace. Felt good on what is was a tough route, lots of climbs. Tracking it all on <a href="http://www.dailymile.com">dailymile</a>, which is quite fun to use. It is definitely like facebook for exercise which is quite a good idea really. Nothing like motivation from other people.<br /><br />Regarding the lunch boxes I actually saw them by chance at Pak n Save here in Auckland. There are quite a few other models available as well. My 5 year old wants one now so it can't be all that sad...but I suspect it is.<br /><br />We had a crack at making hot cross buns today, passed the taste test. Teaching your kids to cook is great fun.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-59668876097582561532010-04-02T14:43:00.005+13:002010-04-02T15:02:06.264+13:00A Little SustainableMy day job is at a consultancy. I work in the renewable energy space and predominantly geothermal power projects. I like the sustainable aspects of this work, quite large scale benefits in displacing fossil fuels, making a difference etc. <br /><br />On a personal level and on a smaller scale I cycle to and from work, mainly for exercise and because its quicker, but a nice side benefit are the environmental aspects. My wife thinks I'm crazy though.<br /><br />On an even smaller level, and this might sound quite sad, but I've been impressed with the <a href="http://www.nudefoodmovers.com.au">Nude Food Movers</a> range of lunch boxes. The concept is quite simple to avoid the use of lunch wrap and rubbish in lunch. Here is a photo:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqzhG3gs9kIOWwGSAQnz_cNeQa7xfBcH2Y4d-vau1c4QGdhHsRsK1q0KRsklv786pe9R5jHNBR_fsB9oZPwSVOjp9dZEO1uZZ30X83OjeSxcJepypMlM7E4nWTQflPxXIXn6reqSK4hf-/s1600/nudefoodmovers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 207px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXqzhG3gs9kIOWwGSAQnz_cNeQa7xfBcH2Y4d-vau1c4QGdhHsRsK1q0KRsklv786pe9R5jHNBR_fsB9oZPwSVOjp9dZEO1uZZ30X83OjeSxcJepypMlM7E4nWTQflPxXIXn6reqSK4hf-/s400/nudefoodmovers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455353389377626674" /></a><br /><br />What I've found in the week or so I've been using this is I end up being more healthy. Yoghurt in one container, mixed nuts in the other, vege pieces, and 2 x sandwiches. The compartments help being good. Nice side benefit of reducing waste and being a little more sustainable.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-85666132439682158462010-03-31T05:42:00.002+13:002010-03-31T05:46:21.835+13:00DailyMileI've been trying out <a href="http://www.dailymile.com">DailyMile</a> to track my training. I prefer it to <a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com">MapMyRun</a> less intrusive in terms of adverts and easier to use. It's a little like facebook for excercise.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-16832954083490218662010-03-24T05:44:00.004+13:002010-03-24T06:38:33.965+13:00Mixed BagA bit mixed this week:<br /><br />- On a course of antibiotics for a skin infection. I get some eczema under my forearms periodically which has been giving some grief lately. It's not much fun to be honest.<br />- On the positive while getting that checked out got my blood pressure taken. Happy to say it is now 120/80 which is much better than the last time I got checked 3 years ago when it was 140/80. I put that down to running and weight loss.<br />- The rear hub on my bike went the day before yesterday only after 2 months use. Its back in the shop now. Not a happy camper about that.<br />- My weight today is 84.3kg. I'm happy with anything under 85 at the moment but would like it down at 80.<br />- Corporate triathlon is 3 weeks away. The course is short but its a worry. I'm packing my togs and goggles today and am swimming after work. Nerves are pushing me into action. :)Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-36527362526179114172010-03-15T06:14:00.005+13:002010-03-20T16:00:04.153+13:00Angry FaceRound the Bays was manic with all those people. The army started the event with a howitzer which was different.<br /><br />I chatted to a few people along the way mainly in the first part during the congestion and ended up with a 39:55 for the 8.4km course. <br /><br />The main thing was ended up first to the work tent and BBQ which was the main thing to ensure suitable bragging rights at the office. A beer and a sausage and bread not normally what I have post run but makes for a tasty change.<br /><br />Andrew I've never thought of it but yeah I probably do have my angry face on when running hard. My training runs are more fun. I ended up catching a bus back to town and the traffic did make me angry. It would have been quicker to jog back!Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-10472580968747396682010-03-14T07:13:00.004+13:002010-03-14T07:22:12.510+13:00Race TimeFirst race of the year this morning. <a href="http://www.roundthebays.co.nz">Round the Bays</a> is one of the biggest fun runs in the world with an estimated 50,000 competitors and 20,000 bandits. Not very long at 8.4km. The course itself is along the Auckland water front and takes in the second part of the Auckland marathon course. All those people around I'll be dodging people like a mad thing.<br /><br />Work have entered a team, paid my $15 entry fee, and provided a running top. The corporate colours are purple - its very 1980s. We are also getting a BBQ at the end - it should be good.<br /><br />I was a bit worried about the run earlier in the week as my right ankle has been feeling a bit sore for no apparent reason. However a 5.5km yesterday went OK so we should be good to go.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-88430020269237605732010-03-07T13:04:00.003+13:002010-03-07T13:14:56.460+13:00Good Morning RunBircher Muesli, Fruit Salad and Yoghurt followed an hour later by a more pacy 7.95km / 37:52 / 4:46min/km at around 8:30am. Started off a little stiff and lethargic from yesterday but soon got into a good rhythm. Hot and sweaty at the end. <br /><br />Great stuff, all you need for a good start to the morning.<br /><br />My cycle home from work is a different route from the way in, this is largely to avoid main roads during rush hour but also it serves to give me some variety.Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-39762389485256949442010-03-07T08:06:00.005+13:002010-03-07T08:14:33.368+13:00Secret AucklandOne thing about running, or cycling, in the city is you start to learn the secret short-cuts, access ways, and quiet streets to get from A to B. Something that you don't experience driving a car.<br /><br />Recently on a training run I "discovered" the walkway from the strand in Parnell, Auckland up to Augustus Terrace. A great little shortcut which bypasses a busy section of road. Need to watch out for the tree though.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhQnlI6uN0JbdtmBMC6XtEfyyvUZKqruG_VmlotNfibrpxn1bIDzdIDp33t8GtKxMP0a3RHtCes80K3d_KCtPXimPKsXIlNtmm4DdjZTAp21hXrhlVCz26fDDeZMU2_N8b1_4U9zcT3wb/s1600-h/secret.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhQnlI6uN0JbdtmBMC6XtEfyyvUZKqruG_VmlotNfibrpxn1bIDzdIDp33t8GtKxMP0a3RHtCes80K3d_KCtPXimPKsXIlNtmm4DdjZTAp21hXrhlVCz26fDDeZMU2_N8b1_4U9zcT3wb/s400/secret.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445599782616805906" /></a>Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-30273308415748975522010-03-06T14:40:00.007+13:002010-03-06T17:38:11.443+13:00Hard WorkMade it hard for myself for the group run today with the <a href="http://www.kingslandmartialarts.co.nz">Kingsland Martial Arts</a> guys today. I thought it would be "good" idea to cycle to the office, park my bike in the secure lockup, jog over to the start area (in Westhaven), do the group run and cycle home again. Of course I ended up running late...<br /><br />1. Cycle 8.9km to the office cyclepark.<br />2. Run at 4:57min/km pace from Carlaw Park to the Curran Street motorway onramp (5.7km - longer than I thought it was). Just got there in time as the other guys were arriving. <br />3. Group run of 8.54km at 5:25min/km pace. Thankfully one of the guys on the run is on the slower side.<br />4. Slow jog back to the bike, legs a bit tight so stretching and some walking.<br />5. Bike home 7.4km.<br /><br />It was all a bit harder than it should have been. More work required getting my fitness back to where it was during my marathon training last year.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.roundthebays.co.nz">Round the Bays </a>fun run next weekend, I've never done this before so it should be great fun. Corporate tri in just over 5 weeks - really need to get some swimming in before that.<br /><br />Yesterday at work we all got invited to the <a href="http://www.nestle.co.nz">Nestle</a> wellness expo (Nestle are in the same building, but a floor above us). This was quite good with blood testing, fitness booths, and a neat goodie bag. Got my blood pressure tested and finding it was 130/80 still a little on the high side but down since the last time it was tested.<br /><br />I even bumped into an old friend who is now running a personal training business. He made a comment about how I've lost weight since the last time I saw him - must have been the running...Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-216506638212433376.post-34301472416503640242010-03-03T20:07:00.007+13:002010-03-04T05:24:31.995+13:00Colour ExperimentSame course as yesterday but a different running top. <br /><br />A full 1 min 20s slower. Either red is quicker or not used getting back to mid week running. Next run will go for early morning for a change, haven't done that for a while.<br /><br />Conditions were not as hot as yesterday and there was some breeze.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAzzw6GKysOdim3dh8aNQHcDXe-_AmyakAgZAyKeWui3JbrV7xzaTV3N8Jv7hNP8b6_zgbrkI4BFZqfoMRmWVV5VUNg7koqai0R8Rdl6GR6LloEsgNz165YgS3eVXFJcA4I_FQ7KU5507/s1600-h/domainwalk2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAzzw6GKysOdim3dh8aNQHcDXe-_AmyakAgZAyKeWui3JbrV7xzaTV3N8Jv7hNP8b6_zgbrkI4BFZqfoMRmWVV5VUNg7koqai0R8Rdl6GR6LloEsgNz165YgS3eVXFJcA4I_FQ7KU5507/s400/domainwalk2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444305012630462098" /></a><br /><em>Me in my 2007 Auckland Quarter Marathon top. First running race I entered and basically just ran flat out and struggled at the end. That strategy worked (placed in top 10% of my category) but was lucky not to injure myself...</em><br /><br />Yep Andrew have noticed the typo on the back of the 2009 edition. Wonder if someone got in trouble for it ;)<br /><br />Also a while back I went to the <a href="http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/whatson/events/gobybike/default.asp">go by bike breakfast </a>that the Auckland City Council put on the 15th Feb. This was quite good with free muesli and espresso. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVzgTt7rItU_55MU0ZgvUqPsXrwAo3OQgadaHuAtWLYKt0YV40o7AhA1J-ZNH6OMOUB3IlG5CroOHSui4iVfElchyJzpYawfOUGFfGxcvW0EZ2gj1MbYon6YL-3b4VASqZuJjQjy7Zfqu/s1600-h/Image153.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVzgTt7rItU_55MU0ZgvUqPsXrwAo3OQgadaHuAtWLYKt0YV40o7AhA1J-ZNH6OMOUB3IlG5CroOHSui4iVfElchyJzpYawfOUGFfGxcvW0EZ2gj1MbYon6YL-3b4VASqZuJjQjy7Zfqu/s400/Image153.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444307984114002178" /></a>Aaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09665359545915333818noreply@blogger.com2