marathon Archives - Floradise

06/09/2017

How to Start Running

**This post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission on purchases made through these links.

My lack of fitness motivation earlier this year got me thinking about why I started running in the first place. Before 2011 I was not interested in working out or running — at all. I couldn’t finish a mile if my life depended on it. I was not in a good place in my life at all, and I needed to prove to myself that I could set a goal and accomplish it. I was inspired by runner friends and a desire to love myself to start running. It has changed my life!

I’ve recently started to regain my motivation to train for another half-marathon. This inspired me to share my tips on how to start running.

You just have to start.

When I began, running felt awful, but I kept going. I didn’t invest in fancy new running shoes right away; I just worked with what I had. I searched for a running schedule online and followed it. It was as simple as that.

A key to starting is to establish your why. This is going to push you through the times when you doubt yourself and want to quit.

If I were just starting out now, I’d know about many more resources available than I did back then. I just learned on my own with occasional advice from runner friends. If you want professional advice, I would find training that involves cardio at places such as Orangetheory Fitness, or you can hire a trainer if your budget allows. You can also sign up for group training for races (Mine was only $35 for 12 weeks.). It’s much more affordable than one-on-one coaching and you will find new runner friends. If in-person coaching is not in the budget, you can also find free running groups on Meetup.com. In addition, you’ll free resources online: Blogs, fitness websites and YouTubers can all offer valuable advice. Search for running form class or workshops in your area (usually at local running shoe stores) if you want advice on proper form.

What you need to get started:

A good pair of running shoes. I found that I didn’t have any issues when I had the right size and fit of shoe. I consulted a longtime runner who worked at a running store in Phoenix to find the right shoes for me. He’s the one who suggested going up half a size when I was having issues with my toenails, and he was so right. I have since always purchased a half size larger in running shoes. Some runners think losing toenails is a badge of courage, but it really shouldn’t be happening. Look into insoles as well.
Good running socks. All socks are not made equally. Cheap socks have resulted in blisters for me in the past. Don’t make this mistake!
Moisture-wicking running clothes.
Sunglasses or hat, lip balm and sunscreen (or weather-appropriate clothing).
A hydration system that works for you. I have tried hand-held water bottles, water bottle belts, hydration packs and using the water fountains along my path.
Hair ties.
If you intend to listen to music, you’ll need an armband or Flipbelt to hold your phone, as well as headphones. The key is have the volume at a low level or only wear one earbud, because you need to be able to hear someone calling out “On your left” or whatever else.
Headlamp/lights or reflective gear if running at dusk/dawn or night. In any race where you have to run at night and around traffic, you typically run on the opposite side of the street, facing traffic so you can see it.

Websites for runners:

These sites offer information for runners and fitness lovers.

RunnersWorld.com: The best resource for all things running. I used to have a magazine subscription, and I enjoyed the recipes, tips and articles.
Shape.com: Tips, training programs and more.
Active.com: Find races to run in your area.
Meetup.com: Find running meetups in your area.
Womensrunning.competitor.com: All sorts of running and fitness advice.

What websites would you add?

Rules of the road:

The following are little rules, or etiquette tips, that I have learned over the years.

Stay to the right. When passing, do so on the left, and say out loud, “On your left” to let the person you are passing know. This is to prevent any accidents or to avoid startling someone. (Also to maintain order in what can be a chaotic world. haha! But really, sometimes running paths can be crowded, and this helps.)
Always pay attention to your surroundings, whether it’s cyclists, strollers, walkers, golf carts, whatever. Don’t just suddenly stop or change directions without looking around. Same goes for people who blow their nose (snot rockets) on the road!
On crowded paths or trails, run behind your partner instead of crowding the entire walkway.
If you ask someone to run with you and he or she is a slower runner than you, don’t leave him or her in the dust unless you discussed previously that you’d each run at your own paces. It’s just rude!
Help each other out. Cheer for other runners and help anyone you notice is in trouble. The running community is so wonderful to be a part of.

What tips would you add?

Training tips for a half- or full marathon:

(See the running page on my blog for more training posts.)

Combine strength training and yoga/stretching into your plan.
Hire a coach or go on group runs if possible.
Don’t do anything too crazy the week of the race. That means eating irregular foods or trying new workouts.
Test out pre-run meals, hydration and energy gels/ chews/products during long runs and do so multiple times.
Run in all weather conditions, unless it’s completely dangerous (lighting, severe storms, etc.), because it just might rain on race day. (I don’t always follow this, but it really is for the best.)
Seek professional advice on the right shoe for you.
Don’t ignore pains/injuries. Get them checked out and do something about them.
Do a test run in your race day outfit, preferably more than once.
Don’t give up or be too hard on yourself.
Add some hill runs/workouts to the mix.

How to find motivation:

Connect with other runners on social media. Follow runners and read running/fitness blogs.
Go on group runs or run with a friend.
Hire a trainer or coach.
Watch YouTube videos on fitness and running.
Read running/fitness magazines.
Replace your old running shoes.
Get some cute new running clothes.
Take your kiddo along for a family jog in the running stroller.
Schedule time to run. Hire that babysitter and free a block of time.
Create a new running playlist. Subscribe to running playlists on Spotify.
Create a running vision board or Pinterest board.
Participate in workout/fitness challenges.
Reward yourself (in moderation/in healthy ways).
Set short- and long-term goals.

Hashtags for motivation and connecting with runners:

#fitfluential
#RagnarTraining
#marathontraining
#fitgirl
#halfmarathontraining
#RunChi
#runnerproblems
#running
#MondayMotivation
#SundayRunday

What hashtags do you use?

Best races I have run:

Chicago Marathon: This was my second marathon but it’s in a city I have grown to love. The crowd was incredible, and I’m talking about both the spectators and the runners.
Kentucky Derby Marathon: It was my first marathon. I felt so touched that Graham’s family came to watch and support me.
Chicago Spring and Fall Half Marathons: The medals are the best I’ve seen, and again, they are in a great city.
Phoenix Half Marathon:The course is gorgeous and it’s at a nice time of year in Phoenix.
Ragnar Relay: I have run a Ragnar race four times: threes time at the Ragnar Del Sol and once at Ragnar McDowell Mountain. It’s an incredibly challenging race, but it’s also unforgettable and fun.

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What running tips would you add?

03/20/2017

Gaining Back Motivation to Work Out | Half-Marathon Training

** This post contains affiliate links.

Yoga pants by 90 Degrees by Reflex (similar)**; C9 sports bra (similar)**; Fabletics headband**; Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17 shoes**

In October I became a work-from-home parent, and the adjustment period has taken a toll on my fitness motivation. Keeping up with a toddler is a workout in itself, am I right?! I’ve skipped workout after workout recently and I find myself in a rut. My half-marathon training was set to begin March 1, yet it’s three weeks later and I have only run 11.35 miles. My excuses to skip runs or fitness classes include but aren’t limited to: Chicago weather, getting sick, back and shoulder pain and prioritizing family time over fitness. The real reason I have been slacking on training, though, is simple: I have lost motivation.

The Chicago Spring Half Marathon is May 21, which is in nine weeks. It’s really now or never: I need to start seriously training. I want to re-prioritize fitness because working out is a key part of my physical and mental well-being. In an effort to burst out of this rut, I’m sharing ways I plan to regain motivation when the gym is the last thing I want to do.

Read fitness blogs. I find that I am inspired when I read a fitness blog post or watch a vlog. The passion can be contagious. Surround yourself with motivational influences.
Write down a specific workout and time in your planner. When I list something in my planner, I MUST do it. If you’re the same way, scheduling a class in advance may give you the necessary jolt.
Find a buddy. My friend and I were discussing our lack of motivation this weekend and we asked ourselves, why haven’t we worked out together yet?! I have no problem canceling workouts I plan myself, but I can’t imagine canceling on a friend.
Make it a family affair. Lately there have been days when I don’t want to leave the house for an 8 p.m. workout (the only time I can go sometimes) because I want to be back in time to put Victoria to bed and read her a story. We recently bought a running stroller, and I am counting down the days until I can take her with me on short jogs in nice weather. (Plus I won’t need to save my running for so late in the day and can instead do them during my lunch break.) Graham has also expressed an interest in training for a race together, during which we can motivate each other.
Create a new playlist. Every season I put together a running playlist on Spotify. I get excited about uninterrupted time to listen to new music and current favorites. (Stay tuned for a new running playlist!)
Compile a vision board on Pinterest or on actual paper. Use motivational quotes, images and workout plans as inspiration. Visualize the results you want to see. Remind yourself why you work out in the first place.
Try new workouts, running routes, class times, teachers/trainers. Mixing it up in some way keeps your workouts exciting and interesting. Take the most scenic running path! Sign up for a different group fitness class! Grab a new pair of colorful leggings! Try a different style of yoga!
Wear a fitness tracker daily and track meals. Seeing your progress can give you a boost of confidence. It’s also fun to hit that daily step goal!
Keep a workout journal (take photos of yourself or share your workouts on social media). Write down how you feel before, during and after. Share your successes and failures to figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. Ask yourself if there’s something to be grateful for about the workout process and find an inspiring community via hashtags (#fitspo, #fitfluential, #MondayMotivation, etc.). Also, photos can help yourself see progress over time that isn’t always obvious to ourselves.
Set out your cute new workout clothes. Updating your worn-out athletic gear makes you want to work out! I recently got the pink/purple leggings above and am so excited to wear them more often.

How do you stay motivated? Share your tips in the comments to help each other out!

12/05/2016

4 Awesome Races to Run + Their Medals!

** This post contains affiliate links.

I recently bought a race medal holder on Etsy** to finally display my medals from my five-plus years of running. I previously kept my medals tangled in a pile in my athletic attire drawer, and they were begging to be rescued. But I worked too hard to earn this bling to keep it locked away collecting dust.

Now my race medals reside on a medal holder containing three race photos. It hangs above my desk as a daily reminder that I can do badass things when I try. Seeing them also helps me relive the memorable races I’ve had. Looking for a medal holder? I recommend this one. ** I also highly suggest displaying your hard-earned medals.

Find my running medal holder here on Etsy.**

Thinking of running a race? Here are my favorite medals and the races I ran to earn them.

Chicago Fall Half Marathon – Chicago. If you are looking to travel for a half, I recommend the Chicago Half. The medal is enormous: a golden, almost-plate-size token from your race. The race takes place in the southern part of the city. Shuttle service takes you from two L stops to the race, and the post-race party includes a free slice of pizza and beer. This is also the race in which I earned a double medal for also running the Chicago Spring Half. The race shirt is usually a long sleeve that is handy during fall and winter runs. The Chicago Half is usually in late September and registration fees ranged from $70-80 in 2016.

Chicago Half Marathon – September 2015

Chicago Half Marathon – September 2016

Ragnar Relay -Various locations. I have run Ragnar (a 200-mile relay race with 12-member teams) four times: three times at the Del Sol and once at the McDowell Mountain trail race. These challenging races make you earn your medal, which was a beer bottle opener the years I ran it. Beyond that, Ragnar has created medals that connect with each other, so each of the 12 runners can finish the race, collect their medals, put them together for a photo op and celebrate. You also have the opportunity to earn double medals with special names and designs that vary by geographic location. Races are held throughout the year all around the country. Registration fees can be heftier than other races, starting at around $120-130 a person, depending on when you register. You also have many other costs to consider, including van rental, food and gear.

Phoenix Half Marathon and Marathon – Mesa, Arizona. I have done this three times (half marathon twice and 10K once), and I liked the consistency in their medal design. A Phoenix was designed on the medal, which fits the name and location of the race. From 2016-2020, though, the medals get even better. They connect to form a copper star; the five medals represent the Five C’s of Arizona: cattle, copper, cotton, citrus and climate. They are silver and copper and they look FANCY. Marathon costs were $80-125 in 2016. Half-marathon costs were $70-110 this year. The virtual half-marathon was $49. The next Phoenix Half Marathon and Marathon will be on Feb. 25, 2017. Race bags include runner arm sleeves, which I think is a nice touch.

Arizona Copper Star Medals via Phoenix Half Marathon website.

Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon – Louisville, Kentucky. I like this medal because it represents its area and the race so well. The marathon runs through Churchill Downs and is part of the Kentucky Derby festivities leading up to the horse race. This was also my first marathon so I have a special place in my heart for it. Registration fees start at $85 for the 2017 race. The next race takes place on April 29, 2017.

What are your favorite race medals? Share them with me in the comments!

** This post contains an affiliate link.

11/16/2016

A Virtual Half Marathon | Post-Marathon Thoughts

After the Chicago Marathon I had no plans to run another marathon. I didn’t have any 10Ks or half marathons in mind, either. I was only focused on finishing the marathon, resting the next day and then flying to Phoenix to pick up Victoria and returning to Chicago in one day. It was the most exhausting week of my life; even more tiring than moving to Chicago with just 11 days to prepare.

Now that I’ve had a month to rest, I am feeling the itch to sign up for another race. I haven’t made any decisions about a marathon, but I just signed up for a virtual half marathon. I had not heard of a virtual half until I received an email from the Phoenix Marathon, a race I have run before (half, not the full). If I run a virtual half before Dec. 31, I will be eligible to still try to earn the Arizona Copper Star, a set of five medals that you get by running the race for five consecutive years starting in 2016. You earn medals to represent the Five C’s of Arizona: Copper, Cattle, Citrus, Cotton and Climate. In case you’re wondering I can recite the Five C’s by memory, because I am an Arizona native. It’s ingrained in my memory. I think it would be an amazing achievement to earn these medals because I love my home state of Arizona, and the Phoenix Marathon has a gorgeous course. It’s also a well-run race, and I have enjoyed the swag given out the years I ran the half. The five medals come together to form an a copper star in the center. I WANT THESE MEDALS. I am not sure if life will allow me to do any of the races in Phoenix (technically Mesa), but I am hoping I can.

So what is a virtual half marathon? It means I will run the distance and then submit a screenshot of my time tracked on my device. Once my time is verified, I will receive the first of the medals: Copper. I will also receive a race shirt and arm sleeves, which the race gives its runners every year. I love them!

I am glad this email made its way to my inbox just as I was debating my next running move. I find that when you are looking for an answer you will find what you need. As far as a marathon goes, I am leaning toward running either the Chicago Marathon or the Marine Corps one. Both are in October 2017, and both are via lottery. I would also love to run the New York City Marathon, which is a tough race to get into. I’m confident that the answer will appear though. It always does.

What are your current fitness goals? Share them with me in the comments!

10/13/2016

Marathon Training: Differences Between First and Second Marathons

Photo by Marathon Foto

I had two goals for my second marathon: don’t walk, and try to get any time better than my first marathon. When I crossed the finish line on Sunday, Oct. 9, I had no idea whether I had accomplished the second, and I would later find out that I didn’t. I got almost exactly the same time, and I was initially a little disappointed. Then I realized that I shouldn’t be too surprised because I didn’t track my pace at all; I just took it easy and steady. My running app malfunctioned early on, and it was then that I decided not to worry about time and to just have fun. I had to remind myself this marathon was about wanting to be a part of my new city and touring Chicago with 40,000 of my closest friends.

I did manage to jog the whole marathon, which was enough of an accomplishment for me. In my first marathon, I started out at about a 9:30-9:45 pace and ended up walking a lot of the final six miles. At the 2016 Chicago Marathon I maintained an 11 minute mile pace the majority of the time. I wasn’t in pain and I didn’t struggle mentally as much as I did my first time around. I actually felt grateful and positive, even in the last six miles. I kept telling myself I was almost done and feeling great, especially after a nice woman handed me an orange Popsicle.

I credit my strength training and group runs for that success. I didn’t feel alone in my second marathon because I knew several other runners (I even ran with one of my teammates for a little bit). I wasn’t in as much pain because I had incorporated so much strength training, drills and group runs into my preparation. While the time was the same, the aftereffects were much better this time around.

What I learned while training for my second marathon:

Strength training is essential. In my first training I mostly ran and did some yoga. I didn’t lift any weights, nor did I do enough core work. Strength training helps reduce injury risk. During my second marathon training, besides some brief calf tightness and a week of shoulder soreness, I didn’t experience any recurring issues. (Read the Runner’s World guide on strength training.)
Group runs make training a lot more fun. I did my training mostly on my own the first time, even my 20-miler. This year I chose to go on the group run, and I can’t imagine having done it without them. I had both emotional and logistical support, and it made a huge difference.
You still need to track what you eat. During my first marathon training, I ate whatever I wanted. I reasoned that I could eat anything and everything because I had run so many miles. Wrong. You can’t eat whatever you want. Sure, you can indulge in some ways, but you should still track your eating habits. I gained weight during my first marathon training, like so many people do. This time I lost 4.5 pounds. While it wasn’t a goal to lose weight, I was just happy that I didn’t put on my pounds. Also, by incorporating strength training I have also gained muscle.
Plan your workouts and give yourself a break. I wrote down all my runs and workouts in my planner every week. I also wrote down times that I could fit a workout in if I had missed a planned run. I learned to be flexible as well. If I was sick or was traveling, I rearranged my workout plans. If I missed a run, I didn’t beat myself up about it; I just did the best I could.

What lessons has your fitness journey taught you?

Watch my marathon experience:

10/10/2016

Chicago Marathon 2016 Recap

I did it! After months of training and recapping, I finished the Chicago Marathon on Sunday.

I was nervous in the days ahead of the marathon because I did a lot of walking around the two days before and because I slipped in the shower and bruised my behind. I also had a stressful week at work and my life is about to be changed forever. In comparison the marathon seemed like it would be a piece of cake.

I awoke at 4 a.m. on Sunday and wavered on my outfit choice. I decided to stick with my plan to wear shorts and a tank despite it being in the 50s that morning. I wore sweats and a jacket over it as I traveled to Grant Park on the L. I headed to Gate 2, where I had to say goodbye to Graham. Only runners are allowed in the park before the race. I used the portable restroom again and walked directly to Corral J, which is Wave 2. I then waited for about an hour for my wave to finally start walking to the start line. Along the way I made friends with three women in my corral and we even got our photo taken together.

I started after 8 a.m. I immediately felt the bruising from my fall, but that eventually faded away. From the beginning I could tell this was going to be a special experience. The energy was beyond that of any other race I’ve done, and it really feels like the entire city has your back. Spectators cheer; dance; and give you ice, water, snacks, candy, Popsicles, and even beer. They hold funny signs and make you laugh. They shout inspiring messages as you pass. It’s incredible.

My favorite neighborhoods to run through were Pilsen and Chinatown. The spectators there seemed a lot more enthusiastic and loud. It was just what I needed at that point (Miles 20-22ish).

I didn’t track my pace at all, but I remained steady. I normally use the Map My Run app, but I turned it off before the halfway point because it malfunctioned and wasn’t tracking my pace correctly. I didn’t then to just finish and not worry about my time. I felt good throughout most of the race, but the last 2 miles were tough. My back was killing me at this point, and I was ready to be done. Funny how those last couple of miles seem longer than the rest of the race.

I ended at about 5:02, which is what I ran my first marathon in as well. I didn’t improve my time despite not really walking, but I am still proud of how I did. It’s one of my favorite races I’ve done so far. I highly recommend the Chicago Marathon!

Most popular signs:

“I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 26.2.”

“Run like a clown is behind you.”

“You run better than the government.”

“If (a candidate, you guess) can run, so can you.”

“Run faster, I just farted.”

“Hurry up so we can eat.” (or drink)

Training recaps:

10/06/2016

Chicago Marathon Training Weeks 15 and 16 | It’s Race Week!

It’s race week! I can’t believe it: I am running 26.2 miles this weekend. And next week will be even crazier, but I’ll share more about that after the marathon.

Week 15

I didn’t recap Week 15 of Chicago Marathon training because I had a cold and didn’t work out much. I didn’t run my planned 10 miler either, because it was raining and I felt terrible. That week consisted of three Orangetheory workouts. (Week 15 was the week right after the Chicago Half Marathon.)

Week 16

Week 16 of training is race week. This is the plan:

Monday-Tuesday: Rest day.

Wednesday: 2 miles at Orangetheory at lunch and then 3 miles at group marathon training. We did 8 runs up the stairs of a parking garage (40 flights total). We also ran to the hill and did 15 times up and down with various drills (like side shuffles) each time.

Thursday: Rest day with stretching.

Friday: Pick up my race packet and more stretching.

Saturday: Rest and elevate my legs. 2 mile shake-out run in the morning.

Sunday: CHICAGO MARATHON.

I’m excited to share how the marathon goes next week. If you’re running or have ever run a marathon, tell me about your experience in the comments!

Previous recaps:

Current running favorites**:

** This post contains affiliate links.

Fall Running Playlist:

Chicago Half Marathon:

08/15/2016

Chicago Marathon Training, Week 9

I got on track with Chicago Marathon training in Week 9 after taking it easy the previous week. I feel good about where I am in the process, and I can’t believe the race is coming up in just 54 days!

Here’s how I trained in Week 9:

Monday: 2.06 miles at Orangetheory. We all started on the rower and the floor, which is a nice change. I typically like to start class on the treadmill to get it over with, but since I didn’t feel like working out that day it was nice to ease into class. I especially loved coach’s playlist that day, which included Drake’s “One Dance” and a remix of “Don’t Let Me Down” by the Chainsmokers and Daya.

Tuesday: 2 miles at Orangetheory. I didn’t plan to go two days in a row but I had to in order to avoid wasting an Orangetheory class. My classes expire on the 9th of the month and I hadn’t gone the previous week. The treadmill portion of class included a 10-minute incline distance challenge. We ran at a 4 percent incline the entire time, which was tough. I managed just over a mile in that time.

Floor workout included:

Bicep curls.
Plank jacks.
Squat jacks.
400-meter rows. (I did this four times.)
Rollouts on the TRX strap.

Wednesday: 3 miles at the Chicago Adventure Run at Road Runner Sports in Lincoln Park. I skipped group training to try something different with my friends. Sadly we didn’t win any prizes, but it was nice to run with two of good friends. Maybe I will win next time!

Getting tickets at Vitamin Shoppe in Lincoln Park. Photo by Adventure Run.

Thursday: Rest day.

Friday: 75 minutes of vinyasa yoga at my neighborhood studio. I could feel how tight I was in every movement. It was a much-needed session.

Saturday: The 14 muggiest miles of my life. I was struggling and I had to walk a lot. The sun was so intense and I had defined tan lines after my run. I was just glad to be done. I treated myself to the most refreshing iced Chai from a favorite neighborhood spot afterward. I wanted to go to a running group picnic, but I was too exhausted afterward.

Sunday: Yoga at my neighborhood studio. I felt worn out and everything hurt. I used to be so flexible, but now I am so tight.

Mileage: 21.06

Yoga Minutes: 150

Reflections:

While I try not to obsess about a number, I noticed a slight drop on the scale this week, which was a relief. In my last marathon training I actually put on weight, and my goal this time around is to not gain any weight due to improper nutrition. I think the fact that I have been tracking my meals has made a tremendous difference. The humidity this summer has been insane. I come from Arizona, so I am not used to humidity at all. Phoenix is only humid on some summer days, but for the most part it’s dry, which I miss. I am proud of myself though because I have been consistently running all summer vs. last year when I phoned it in when it comes to training.

How was your week fitness-wise and in general? Let me know in the comments!

07/21/2016

Marathon Packing List

A common question I have received recently is whether the Chicago Marathon will be my first 26.2 mile race. The answer is no. It’s my second after the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon in Louisville in 2015. I signed up for the race in January 2015 when I lived in Phoenix, and the plan was to spend a week in Louisville to visit family. Two months later, Graham and I made the decision to move to Chicago for his new job. Luckily Louisville is only a 5-hour drive from Chicago, so the marathon trip was not too long and difficult. In addition to being my first marathon, the Kentucky Derby marathon was also the first race I traveled for. I am so glad I made a packing list before I left for my first marathon, because the whole trip was a whirlwind. For my fellow runners, I’m attaching a marathon packing list of items you might want or need on your trip! Leave me any feedback in the comments about what you would add. This is meant for weekend or day trips for a race.

What to pack for a marathon trip:

Your running outfit with backup options. I would suggest both long- and short-sleeve shirts, shorts and long tights, short and long socks, compression socks, comfortable extra underwear, sports bras and anything else you like to wear to run. Be sure to test your clothing during training.
Energy gels, chews or whatever else you like to use.
Massage roller stick or foam roller.
Armband, fanny pack, Flipbelt or other carrying pack. Plus your earbuds if you are wearing them!
Water bottle or other hydration system.
GPS watch.
Inspiring shoe tags. You can find these on Etsy.
First-aid kit.
Duct tape, just in case.
Extra safety pins.
Rain poncho or trash bag, arm warmers, gloves and other cold-weather clothing.
Hat and/or sunglasses.
Extra hair ties and bobby pins.
Comfortable shoes for before and after race.
Snacks for before and after race, plus electrolyte drinks.
Camera, charger and memory card.
Cellphone and charger.
Sunscreen.
Chapstick/lip balm.
Wet wipes, towel and toilet paper.
Toothbrush, floss and mouthwash.
Deodorant.
Razor.
License/ID, registration information, maps and directions.
Cash and credit cards.
Makeup.
Hair products.
Moisturizer and other toiletries.

I hope this list makes packing for your race much easier. I typically put every item on the bed and then check each off as I put it in my bag. If it won’t be traveling in my bag, I place the item directly next to it so I can grab everything and head out the door.

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04/06/2016

Races That Will Challenge You

Runners looking for their next challenge have myriad options. Races are no longer limited to running on a road or trail, nor are they limited to a single day. Trying out a new and different race can add variety to your race calendar and test yourself in new ways. These can include obstacle, relay or mud races.

Are you ready for your next challenge?

Some of the toughest races I’ve heard about:

Ragnar Relay. I’ve done Ragnar four times; I’ve finished the Ragnar Del Sol three times and McDowell Mountain Ragnar Trail once. What is Ragnar? It’s a relay race of 12 runners in which you run about 200 miles. It starts on a Friday and takes until Saturday to finish. Some people get crazy with teams of six ultrarunners. My total mileage each time has ranged from 15 to 17.5 miles. It’s the most intense race I’ve participated in because you get no sleep and you run three times over 24 hours. In theory running three times sounds OK, but when you’re sore and stuffed into a van with five other sweaty runners for a night, things get a little tricky. It’s also a ton of fun, and you really bond with your teammates in a short time. Ragnars have popped up around the country, including a new one in Hawaii!
Spartan Race. I haven’t tried this obstacle race yet, but it intrigues me. Spartan Races, which have varying distances, even scare me a little, but I think one would be a fun challenge. Races range from Sprint for beginners to Beast, which is the most difficult of the three types. They are held around the country.
Tough Mudder. The 5-12 mile races incorporate mud into the fray. There’s also a 24-hour challenge that I can imagine is quite the battle! This race is also held around the U.S. I often see people with Tough Mudder shirts on the Lakefront Trail in Chicago.
Your first half or full marathon (or for beginners, any race really). The first half or full marathon is the toughest because you don’t know what to expect. Training consumes your life for months and then anything can happen on race day. But you can’t beat the feeling of crossing that finish line to meet a goal you’ve set for yourself. My first marathon was the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon in Louisville.
Goofy Challenge and the Dopey Challenge. One of my good friends completed this challenge over the past few years and I was seriously impressed. What is it? You run a half-marathon one day and a full marathon the next day. Disney races are popular, so you want to sign up as early as possible. Want to test yourself even more? You can do the Dopey Challenge, in which you run a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon over the course of four days. These races are also a fun way to turn your race into a vacation, because you can also explore Disney World. How fun is that?

Have you run any of these intense races? How did it go?

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