Running Updates

No posts last week. I spent the warm days sitting outside with neighbors and it was glorious. Today is rainy and cold. I hate how the weather dictates my mood and my energy level. I put in a solid 40 miles last week and it seemed like a piece of cake. Today, I couldn't get out of bed. Ever have those days? Man, I am excited for some warmer weather. I actually ran in shorts last week! Anyway, I put in 40 miles because I decided to start training for the Marathon and see how I feel. Before I made a decision to sign up. Turned out to be a bad decision. I felt great and got very excited for the marathon... then found out it was sold out. Dang it! I emailed the race director to see if there are any exceptions and he did give me one suggestion so I may still be in.

Anyway, I wanted to give some quick tips on getting started and then some good recovery info. I started reading Run Your Butt Off. It's a pretty basic weight loss plan but I have learned a few good things. For someone just starting or getting back into running from a long break your run/jog can be as slow as your walk and that is ok! Actually probably even more than ok! Don't push your self to hard because you will hate it and give up quickly. Running is an endurance sport so give yourself to build up that endurance. Just run at a speed that feels good and you will get that runner's high.

Next, recovery after a long run. Eat and drink right after finishing a good long run. You need to replace some electrolytes and you need some protein. Good options are coconut water (definitely an aquired taste) with whole wheat toast and peanut butter. Or chocolate milk. Or protein shake and toast. I think the recommended time is 30 minutes. Eat within 30 minutes. Next, change out of your cold/wet/sweaty clothes. This seems like an obvious one but in case it isn't you have to get out of those cold clothes. Your core temp drops after running like that and the cold clothes will make you freeze! Side note on stretching--did you know that stretching before a run is actually a debated topic? Static stretching before a run can actually tear your muscles and instead you should opt for dynamic (movement) stretching. Anyway, stretching after a run is a good idea to cool down your muscles and I stretch in the shower for the heat. Try it. After this little routine I feel like a new women. Ready to run another long run. Other advice, I have heard that ice baths are amazing! You really just need good cold water and a cold pool will work just as well. I tried this after the marathon and honestly, was good to go after an afternoon in the water.