Training Log Archive: iansmith

This evening, I went to the BSO performance of Strauss' Ein Heldenleben with Keith. Tuesday nights seem to be good times to go; the crowds are much reduced. Ein Heldenleben, or "A Hero's Life", is a vast work detailing a life cycle of the Hero, from introduction to "retirement from the world." I know the piece well, and a recording pales compared to a live performance by a world class orchestra. The piece cannot be fully appreciated in part; the contrast of the entire tone poem is necessary.

I ran at "11 PM"; while I am aware that deviations in my circadian rhythm are heralds of my doom, I had much on which I wanted to reflect. I contacted several DCR parks, requested some insurance certificates, and pondered the Spring 2012 schedule today. Since Strauss seemed to reflect my current mood well, I listened to the entirety of Alpine Symphony. I suspect that part of the allure of the arts is that we find insights into ourselves, into the human condition through expressive art. I found a musical depiction of an alpine summit mirrored my own mind.

I went on an evening run without audiobook or music. I was alone with my thoughts, though my mental mp3 player kicked in with sections of Holst's Venus, the Bringer of Peace from the Planets. Conditions were clear and breezy, with a temperature of 6 C and a dew point of 0. I ran harder than I planned, partly because I was initially cold despite my tights, long sleeves, gloves, and short sleeved top. It was a satisfying run, and one I would not have been capable of a few weeks ago. The jersey hanging on my wall is a constant reminder of why I train.

This was the debut run of my Mizunos, and I am pleased so far. They feel lighter and more minimalist than some of the other running shoes I have used, though they pale in comparison to the Orocs and X-talons.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear.

C • Strauss 4

After lengthy stretching, 2x32 pushups.