Long Runs and Toaster Oven Salmon

It’s my 5th run on the app, and I have to say that I’m pleasantly surprised with how the suggested runs are turning out. At first I was apprehensive of starting out with such short runs (tomorrow it’s 7 minutes), but it’s proving to be a great method. Here’s why I think that is:

  • Quick and easy runs allow you to adjust to the pattern of running on the regular. It’s as much mental as it is physical, so I expect this was done in part for this reason.

  • It’s easy on your body and a much safer way to start

  • It’s a great way to get your step and balance back without getting too sore

Today I ran for 20 minutes – which somehow seems like much less when I write it down. It was an easy run though; slow and flat, in big loops through the neighborhood. I don’t have that kind of ease where I don’t even think about my breathing or stride at lower speeds, but I know it’s out there (maybe in 3 months or so).

It feels like a long way from a marathon, but every day is one run closer.


Long runs are a great way to catch up on podcasts, especially if you get bored or easily distracted. Don’t let it distract you from the roads and the environment though.

If you’ve gotten this far, you’re probably wondering about the toaster oven salmon part. I don’t blame you, tasty fish is by far more interesting than a running diary (especially when it involves non-conventional cooking).

Anyways, Chara and I are renting a studio apartment of sorts that has a fantastic location but a limited kitchen. As such, tonight we have made broiled toaster oven salmon with zucchini and baked potatoes.

For whatever reason, I’ve been craving fish like crazy and today when we saw some gorgeous, wild caught coho salmon, we couldn’t pass it up. And so we made it in a toaster oven. Not bad for not even having a full countertop, amiright?

And yes, it was delicious. If anyone wants the recipe, I’ll write another post about it – but it’s definitely one I recommend for those short on space, but want something tasty and nutritious.

Tomorrow is a short 7 minute run, so I plan to accompany it with some nice walking and stretching. It’s also time to start adding in abs and upper body workouts to help with even conditioning. A lot of beginner runners tend to underestimate the value of a strong core and upper body, so if you’re just starting out, it may be helpful to consider integrating exercises that include these muscles groups as you go. Of course, I’m not a doctor or a personal trainer, but in my experience, strengthening these muscles goes a long way.