Fall Race Plans

Ah fall, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin beers, pumpkin candles, sweaters, boots fall leaves, cooler temperatures, and now I get to experience the transition of the season FO REAL! I could not be more excited. I am ticking the days away until the cool temperatures move in and I don't die running in the heat everyday and I can frolic in the park with leaves crunching under my feet!

Fall is also the perfect time for races, especially in New York City. It's been overwhelming trying to pick and choose what races I wanted to run; some weekends have half-marathons on both Saturday and Sunday! Here is what is on the books so far:

Run 10 Feed 10: 10k in Hudson River Park September 18.
My goal for this race is to run fast.... which I don't enjoy. I am a spiritual runner; I run for the enjoyment, the way it eases my mind and brings me peace. But for this race I would like to shoot for 55 minutes or under (fast for me.)

Brooklyn Rock and Roll Half Marathon: October 8
I have ALWAYS wanted to run a Rock & Roll after only hearing the best things about it! So when I found that one was just a quick train ride away I was sold. There are live bands all along the course, and much of it is run in Prospect Park that I am excited to see!

I am hoping for this to cut my PR by 7 minutes and run it in under two hours. Like I've said, I am an endurance runner, not a speed runner so I am hoping by incorporating one speed workout a week and a tempo run that I can accomplish this! A little over a month to go!

After my January marathon, I have been thirsty for another. I went back and forth thinking about the Brooklyn Marathon and Philadelphia Marathon (both in early November) that I would have adequate time training for, but with adjusting to city life, making new friends, I decided to wait to do another marathon. It was a tough decision, but after a little bit more time I think I will be more ready for the next one and the next training cycle. Perhaps I will get into the NYC Marathon next year, or the Marine Corps Marathon instead since it holds a special place in my heart as my dad and sister both ran in. I am also considering an ultra in the near future.... only time will tell!

Keep running friends :) 

You Know You're A Runner When...

I never expected to become a runner, maybe I could have seen myself as a bi-weekly jogger, but never as someone who stuck to a schedule and ran races. Pretty sure my family did not expect this either. There is a stigma involved with running, "Oh, those people." As in the people that do crazy things to their bodies, waking up at ungodly hours, and the constant chatter about their training. Now that I am part of the club, here is my list of when you know you're a runner:

You know you're a runner when:

• You have more running shoes than regular shoes.
• You start getting picky about casual shoes and actually start buying shoes for comfort.
• A pedicure is no longer about having pretty toe nails but to get off the callous.
• Your laundry consists of running clothes only.
• Everything you eat is carefully decided, whether for the nutrient content or how it's going to make you feel for the next run.
• Carbs are your best friend.
• You are eternally hungry.
• You spend more money on races than vacations. You also pick races on their location so you can make it a vacation.
• Going to bed early is a must.
• You wake up before the sun on your weekend to do your "long run."
• Laundry mainly consists of running clothes, and you never allow anyone else to do them for you (no dryer!)
• Wearing real people clothes happens quite infrequently.
• Your Garmin (or other watch) is your best friend.
• All you want to do is talk about running.
• You stretch wherever, and whenever you can. Your roller also travels with you.
• You have worn compression socks under pants in public.
• You cannot run a race until you poop. (TMI, but it's incredibly true.)
• Water is your bff.
• You get angry when you can't run, or when you haven't run in a few days.
• Running partially injured is always an option. Not running is worse.
• You can't function through a day without running.
• You are always planning and thinking about your next run.
• You keep a spare running outfit in your car (just in case.)
• You may be broke because races are just too fun.
• You just love running and can't get enough!!

A short list, but I hit all the statements that really pertain to me! 

Also, sorry friends. I am an obsessive runner, I love it. And I will probably try to convince you to start running!

Peace, and running :)

When To Break Up.. With Your Shoes

Aches and pains, bumps and bruises. As runners we know that this comes hand in hand with the sport we adore. However, do you experience debilitating soreness or injury when you are not changing up your routine? It may be time for the talk.... with your shoes.

Breaking up is hard to do, but it needs to be done. I know I know, your shoes have been there for you in every invigorating run, every time your legs felt like lead they got you through it, and all the races. But there’s plenty of fish… or shoes in the sea.

Most running shoes are good for approximately 300-400 miles, all depending on you. Your body tends to tell you when its time, foot aches, arch problems, shin splints, overall body aches. Keep a log of your miles so you will know when its time to get a new pair so you are not sidelined while you are on the market for a new set.

1.       Alternate running shoes. Buy two pairs of the same shoe and alternate them on runs! They will now last longer until you need to get a new pair.

2.       Keep a mileage log, if you really love your style of shoe order a new pair when time is almost up.

3.       Get fit BEFORE you need a new pair. Go to a running specialty store, please do not go to a big brand sports store… they will sell you on price not based on what you need. A good store will watch your cadence, how you strike the ground, and fit you accurately.

4.       Wear proper socks! I prefer Thorlo Pads. They grip your feet and pad them in all the right areas, I have NEVER had a blister wearing these. I repeat. NEVER. www.thorlo.com/socks/xccu/236

Runner’s World helps us with some more FAQ! www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/running-shoe-faq

ALWAYS get the proper running shoe for you, not what works for someone else. Some running stores even do trial periods!

Keep running friends :)