T20MR Episode 26: Thanks and "Dog Protection Tactics 101"

Welcome to Episode 26. As we make our way through 25 more episodes--hopefully--I thank you for sharing the journey with me. I open this show by sharing my thoughts about things up to this point and what my plans are for the future of the podcast. It is also my privilege to say "Thank you" for your support during the last several months. Whether you are a new listener, or have run through every episode, without you listening, this endeavor would truly be pointless and not work. So, after a few minutes of contemplation...we run.

After a close encounter with a dog--well, sort of close--our thoughts turn to ways to protect ourselves from our canine "friends." Now I am a dog lover (and animal lover in general). But sometimes we have to really be on our guard to protect ourselves if such an occasion arises. I offer a few suggestions during the running portion of this episode and also share a funny story when I had the "4 second burst of superhuman energy" that we discussed last week. If you are concerned about a close encounter of the canine kind, consider the following:

1. Don't run an unfamiliar route at night (make sure to try out a new route in the daytime first).


2. Take some protective precautions: carry a weak bleach solution, or even a stick. We discuss how to use it in the podcast.


3. If that doesn't work, stand your ground and act crazy!


4. Last resort: Run. Unless you know you can outrun the dog, then that is crazy!


5. If attacked, protect your neck and head.


6. Carry your phone with you. Even if you are attacked, you should be able to hit speed dial if necessary. Hopefully the owner, or at least someone else, will be near to offer assistance.


7. Finally, run relaxed. A dog can sense when he has the "upper hand." If you express confidence, the dog can also sense that.


8. (One more suggestion that I failed to discuss: act like you are picking up something to throw. Believe it or not, it really works. Ironically, I just had to use that tactic this morning (along with number 3). Thankfully, I am just fine. )
   

Let me hear your canine encounter story. Email it or send me an mp3 or wav file. I will include it in the show. Hope your training is going well and the dogs are behaving. And as always,

Thanks for sharing some of the road with me,

The 20 Minute Runner

Download this episode (right click and save)

_________________________

The opening and closing music heard in each podcast is entitled “Point of No Return” by Roger Subirana and is the title cut of the album. Check it out at Jamendo.

The first piece heard in the body of the podcast is entitled “Sleepaway," by Rob Costlow. Check it out at Music Alley.

The last piece heard in the body of the podcast is entitled "My Dog's Still Walkin," by Smokin Joe Kubek and Bnois King. Check it out at Music Alley.

Episode 6-Cross training begins, time AND distance

I begin a couple of "new things" with this episode and discuss observations of each: cross training and using a GPS watch. I broke down and purchased a Timex 100 Lap 5E701 version. While I am still learning it, I am already getting the hang of it. The idea of being followed by a satellite beam is pretty cool. I think the addition to my running routine will be helpful.

I also began riding my stationary bike this week. It has more capabilities than I will ever use, but may be we'll learn more as we go on. We discuss the goals I hope to accomplish with the bike.

Odie (above) is also waiting for us as we close the episode, barking and scratching to go for his walk as we cool down. While he can run short distances--up the hall for instance--he is a bit small for longer runs, plus he is on the leash when outside. He is, however, a great dog.

I need a couple of things from you this week (see the "email me" link on this page):

1. What do you do for cross training (if any)? How has it benefited you and what might I expect?

2. Do you use a GPS system? How has it improved your running?

Finally, I still need some input on a half-marathon training program that might work for a 3 day

a week runner--who hopefully cross trains a couple of days per week.

Hope your week is a good one.

Thanks for sharing some of the road with me,

The 20 Minute Runner

Download this episode (right click and save)

_________________________

The music heard in the body of this episode is entitled "Bad Luck Soul," by Trafic de Blues. Check it out at Jamendo.com

The opening and closing music heard in each podcast is entitled “Point of No Return” by Roger Subirana and is the title cut of the album. Check it out at Jamendo.com