Blog 10: Senior Project Update

(1) What are you currently doing in your independent component? 
Right now for my IC I am training, following along with my set schedule. I keep track of all my runs and injuries in my running journal. I also use that as reference for how to adjust my training.

(2) What is a recent piece of research (article, interview, or audio-visual) that have you reviewed you would say was significant in helping you understand where to go next in your senior project?  The piece of research should be something you reviewed in November.  Please explain what you learned and where are you going next because of this piece of research.
Well, I got to the part in my book, "Marathon" where they talk about proper dieting. From here I can contact a nutritionist to understand their point of view and get a further idea of what a proper running diet looks like. 
(3) Provide evidence from your independent component or the piece of research as something you recently did.  For example, a photo of something you working on for your independent component or your notes from the video you watched. 

Did 13 miles! Fun times. 

Blog 5b: Science Fair Proposal

1. What is your topic?
Long Distance Running

2. What is the driving problem behind your experiment and the quote by an expert to support that problem? (Expert citation must be MLA format.)

"This can happen when you first begin a sport or activity and try to do too much too soon. If you begin playing tennis and

play for several hours in an attempt to improve rapidly, you are setting your- self up for an overuse injury. This is because you are trying to do too much and do not allow your body adequate time to recover. As a beginner, you may also have poor technique which may predispose you to tennis elbow."

Matava, Matthew J., MD. "Overuse Injuries." N.p., n.d. Web. 8 Nov. 2012. <http://www.sportsmed.org/>.

3. What is your hypothesis? (Must be in If-Then form.)
If a runner has longer legs, from hip bone to the bottom of their shoe, then they final time to complete 3.3 miles will be faster than a runner with shorter legs.

4. Write a paragraph summary of how you will perform the experiment.  Include the tools you plan on using.
I will keep record of 22-25 runners in a certain running group. I will take their initial leg length. Every week i will record their time over the distance of 3.3 miles. To track the mile i will use a garmin watch gps. To measure the length of the runners leg i will use a tape measure. To take the time of each runner i will use a stop watch.

5. Select one of the following Project Categories for your experiment:
Animal Biology & Physiology

Blog 9: Working EQ and Possible Answers

(1) What was the working EQ you used during your presentation?

What are the key elements in completing a marathon?

(2) Did you decide to revise your working EQ after your presentation? If so, write your revised EQ here.

I am not going to revise my EQ at this time.

(3) What are possible answers to your current working EQ? 

Well, a lot of things go into training for a marathon. Some possible answers for my EQ could be: 

• Physical preparation, such as a running program
• Mental preparation, making sure you know where you'll be running
• Proper dieting, to store the right types of fat to burn for energy later
• Proper equipment, the right running shoe for you

Blog 8: Rough Draft of Presentation 1

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cDLbdo87OcBieYpwVBVatgqg2qyy4Jq0VBZ3uvP3dFA/edit

Blog 7: Independent Component 1 Plan Approval

(1) Write a description of what you plan on doing for your independent study component.

For the independent component I was planning on running a race. The race is referred to as the Goofy Challenge. The goal is to run a half marathon (13.1 miles) on a Saturday morning in January, and on the following day run a full marathon (26.2 miles.) This will have a final product of me (hopefully) finishing the race. I will also have medals, pictures, official time, and a race bib as proof of completion.

(2) Describe in detail how you think your plan will meet the 30 hours work requirement.

Well you can't just wake up one morning and decide to run 40 miles this weekend, so I will be putting in A LOT of hours of training. The average time that should be spent running per week when training for a marathon is 10-12 hours, and by the time the race comes around I'll be sure to have put in over 30 hours of training. As proof of training I will be logging my progress in a running log. In the book I will put information such as my milage for that day, my time, the weather, and how I feel before and after my race. Each week I'll calculate the number of hours I ran. (Also, it will motivate me to train hard for the tough course!)

(3) How does your independent study component relate to your working EQ?  

For my EQ, I was interested in finding the best way to complete a long distance race, (half marathon all the way through ultra marathons.) I think it will help me answer my EQ by giving me first hand experience at the training that is needed to accomplish such goals, and I can also use the training techniques given to me by my coach so I can apply them to others.

Blog 6: Second Interview Questions

The purpose of the second interview is justify your mentor as an expert in the field.  Thus, you will be asking at least 5 questions about their background and/or the background of the organization or company where they work.


I) How did you end up at Run With Us? What attracted you to it?
II) What is the sole purpose of the Run With Us specialty store?
III) How does this environment differ from a different sports store? Why should runners come here for their running needs?
IV) What did you learn when you first began working here, that you didn't know before? Such as shoe fitting and the effects of a proper fit.
V) What have you personally accomplished as a runner? And what kind of runner would you label yourself as?
VI) What techniques do you use for training others that you use on yourself?

Blog 5A: Problem Statement

1) Long Distance Running

2) Problem in your topic.  What will you do once you solve the problem?
A problem that occurs often in running is injury. Once I solve the problem I will be able to train using techniques that can prevent injury or reduce the amount of injuries long distances runners come across. 

3) Problem in your topic.  What will you do once you solve the problem?
Another problem in running is not having the correct running equipment such as running shoes. Once this problem is solved I will be able to help runners find the proper running shoes for their feet which will also prevent injury.

Blog 4: Working EQ

The Pentagon: 
(1) Positive Statement: What positive thing happen as a result of what you have completed so far?

Due to my research I have learned more about training, and how to be a successful runner. Through my interview I learned a lot about the realities of a marathon, such as hitting the wall, and training enough so you know you can do it, and maybe even more. Through my mentorship I learned the importance of proper running equipment, such as the right running shoes for your feet. I also learned the importance of having the right running shoes, how it effects your body, and how to give a runner proper running shoes.

(2) EQ Content:  Pick a piece of research or your interview.  How has it helped you improve your understanding of your topic?


There was an interesting article I read about "hitting the wall" I really enjoyed it because it's a common thing for runners to reach that point where they think they can possibly take another step. And I never knew that there was an actually scientific reason for it. I always thought it was a mental thing, that you just reach mile 20 and it feels like its never going to end. This has helped my improve my understanding because I never knew this. It's one more extra tip in my pocket for crossing that finish line at mile 26.

(3) What has worked for you so far in the senior project?

I think my connections in the running world have really helped. I get to talk to a lot of people who live for running, and they so passionate about it that I'm able to learn so much. I'm really glad I am able to talk to all of these people.

(4) What hasn't worked so far?

I think what hasn't been working is that my mentor and service learning location are far from my house, so it's hard to go back and fourth. It would be nice to find something local but as of now I haven't come across anything. Although, at the same time I enjoy who I'm working with.
(5) Finding Value:  Based on your experience so far,

•  What possible question or questions come to mind regarding what you would like to study this year?

What does it take to complete a marathon?

How should I train for my first marathon?

•  What is your end goal this year with your senior project?

I want to be able to run a marathon, or at least know how to properly train for one. I also want to be able to help others train and show them proper techniques.

• Who would you like to talk to you next? Why?   

I would like to talk to a college or high school level track or cross country coach since I am considering doing my science fair project on that. I would also like to know his/her techniques for training not only his team, but training first timers. People who have never ran before.

Blog 3: Interview Preparation

1.  Who do you plan to interview?  Why?
I plan on interviewing Sylvia Mosqueda for my first interview because she is an experienced runner. She has a marathon time of 2:33:10, half marathon time of 1:09:52, and she also holds the 12k american record of 38:38 from 1988. Along with this accomplishments Sylvia Mosqueda was the first American in the 2003 Vllamoura World Half Marathon, and 10th overall. Since she has accomplished so much as a runner, I feel she will be able to give me good information on how to train and reach my running goals. Sylvia also has her own training program where he helps out runners of all levels.

2.  You have to ask 5 questions.  What additional questions do you plan to ask?
How did you feel when you ran your first marathon?
What do you suggest I do for my first marathon? Any tips for finishing with out dying?
Do elite athletes hit the wall?
What is the most important part of training for a marathon?
Do you have any stretching tips?

Blog 2: Long Distance Marathon Running

My topic for this is will be long distance marathon running. I chose this because running is my life, it completes me. I've been running since I was 13. At first I just did a few 5k races here and there, but after a couple of races i found a strong liking to it. I was never competitive, it didn't matter it I finished first or last. Running is about the journey, what it takes to reach that finish line. Since I started running 4 years ago, I've completed several 5ks, 10ks, and half marathons. My hope for this year is to accomplish my very first full marathon. Although this does not directly relate to the Ipoly ESLRs, my journey there will lead me on a path to being an effective Ipoly Citizen.
Studying the road to becoming a marathon runner will help me become a better Ipoly citizen because already several people have come to me asking about training schedules, and running plans. I know that this is the kind of information others will be interested in, and I can even help them achieve their goals of finish their first run. I can also work with other people who enjoy runs and put running groups together to participate in fun team relays. This topic will also make me a better communicator because no one can finish a marathon alone. In order to reach that finish line you need help from others, people who have been there, and even people who are just willing to support you. I plan on talking to current marathon runners, and using their knowledge to create my own personal running schedule. By listening to what experts have to say will make me an effective learner because I plan to apply what they say to make my schedule the most effective toward my marathon journey. Although most people don't associate running with technology, I know there are resources I can find though an online database. I can also use technology to take me running schedule a step further, such as creating a system that can work for any type of runner. I want to be able to help out all levels of runners. Also, most people don't take into consideration the amount of technology it takes to create the prefect most effective running shoe.
I know this year I will be learning a lot of new information that will benefit me as a runner for the rest of my life. And I know this won't be my last marathon.

Blog 1: Summer Mentorship Component

Mentor: Mike Gonzalez

(626) 568-3331 (Number of business)

http://www.clubrunwithus.com/home.html

Day One: 

I did a total of 3 hours on my first day. Since it was my first day I didn't do much besides watch the workers size other costumers. My mentor taught me about the different types of running shoes, and how to find the right pair of a certain type of person. He taught me how to recognize weak ankles and low arches, and how those types of problems can affect someones running career. While I was doing my community service hours, I was able to meet Sylvia Mosqueda. She is an elite runner who made multiple attempts to reach the olympics. Although she never ran representing USA, she is still an outstanding runner. I was also able to meet a professional track and field coach. He gave me a few tips on techniques for sprinting and training your body, and mind. By the end of the day I felt like i had an overall good experience on my first day. 

Day Two:

I did 4 hours. After reading over a few pamphlets, I felt more comfortable with my knowledge of fitting costumers. and I was able to assist my mentor in sizing future runners. When I sized my first customer I was pretty nervous, there is way more to the right running shoe than getting it in the right size. Having the right shoe can prevent several potential injuries. If I gave them the wrong shoe i could be hurting them with out even knowing it. But the end of the day I fit about 5 customers. Unfortunately, there wasn't any surprise visits from professional athletes/coaches.

Day Three:

On my last day I finished off my hours and did 3 more hours. The store wasn't very busy so I wasn't able to fit vary many people. But one of the Asics representatives came in to the store and was presenting their new line of shoes and clothes to the owner. I was able to watch and help pick out some of the thing I liked. Running is more than putting one foot in front of the other, you have to wear the appropriate clothing. You don't want to wear something heavy that will drag you down, or sags to much, it should be fitted to you can be arrow dynamic. 

     What questions were raised because of the 10 hours of experience?  List them.     

I had a lot of questions about technique. There are a lot of things about the mechanics of running I still don't know. So it would be nice to learn about all of that. I think that would help me become a better runner. I also would like to know more about the elite runners. Like why are they so crazy fast! As well as their training plans, diets, and sprint work outs. I'm curious as to how they reach the elite level. Is it more than just being fast, because personally I don't believe anyone can be born an elite runner. It takes hard work and dedication.

   

     What is the most important thing you gained from this experience? Why?

I think the most important thing I gained from this experience is all the new information I got about running. Since I plan on training for a marathon it's good to have these tips so I don't injure myself or cause permanent damage. The people I talk to also help me to create my own training regimen for my marathon. This way it's unique to my running style and goal finishing time.

     How did what you did help you choose a topic?

I think what helped me pick my topic was the environment. Being around all of these people who have such a passion for something as simple as running really makes you feel proud. Even though you may not run a marathon in under 2 hours, they still respect you as a runner, and everyone helps each other out. In the running world there are no secrets, at least not any that you can't share with your fellow runner. Also, learning all these cool tips and tricks, like running on a track more than 6 miles is damaging, or that running heel to toe isn't bad, it just doesn't work out your calf muscles as much is really interesting and helpful to me as a runner.