I have been stuck on a weight plateau for three weeks now and it's time to make a break-through. My goal is to increase the days I run AND weight train. Normally, I do one or the other but I'd like to balance the two.
On another note, I found a wonderful solution to side stitches. Last Saturday, I went for a four mile run and got the worst side ache ever! It was so bad my side hurt for days. I found a website (and now I can't find it again) that suggested deep belly breathing while running and pursing your lips on exhales. Also, it recommended exhaling on the left foot because the liver has ligaments that anchor near the diaphragm and the weight of the liver jouncing exacerbates side stitches.
So I ran the same course today while practicing the new technique and viola! no side stitches. My pace was slower but I think it will return once I master breathing and stop worrying that the nightmarish side stitch will return.