The Running Diva

Tips and musings to help all runners, from beginners to those that have been running for awhile.

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEZu0InrEE4)

[therunningdiva]

Race 13.1 Roanoke Recap – Slowest Half Marathon Ever – But, I Had A Blast!

Last Saturday was the latest half marathon in the Race 13.1 Series Races – and was held right here in my hometown of Roanoke.  So, of course, I had to do it.

Now, to start my story – I’ve been fighting a little “glitch”.  I really don’t know what it is.  It’s mostly in my butt, and a little bit on the top of the back of my leg.  So, somewhere between glute, SI or hammy.  Running doesn’t really bother it – it is just an annoyance when I run.  What hurts the most – and I mean hurt – is when I’m driving.  And, considering I drive 1 1/2 hours each way to my Mom’s every week……well, let’s just say it gets downright uncomfortable.

I’ve been doing exercises for all 3 – plus Piriformis exercises.  And, seeing my chiropractor a couple of times a week.  The week of the race, I asked him if he thought I was alright to do the race – and he asked me, “Haven’t you been doing long runs anyway”.  Uh, yes.  Well, I see no reason why you can’t do the race.  We set an appointment for the day before the race just as a little extra tweaking!

(On a side note, I see my chiropractor every month for my feet – they’ve been perfect!)  (Knock on wood).

I did decide, however, to take this race as an easy – and I mean easy – long run for the week. And, that’s exactly what I did!

Race morning:  Up early and had my bagel with peanut butter and a Pepsi.  Left the house about an hour before race start.  Ate my banana on the way to the start.  Got a nice parking place and just kind of hung out in the car before heading over to the Port-a-potties.

Hubby had to go into our business that morning, so he was not with me.  I told him that I would call and catch up with him after I finished.  Weird hanging out at the start without him.

The race started several minutes late – very uncharacteristic for this series.  They are usually very punctual.  I got a little tickled right before the start.  These 2 guys were having a massive discussion as to who lined up on what side of whom.  Seriously, they went on for several minutes. Finally, the one guy persuaded the other that he always ran on the left side of the other guy.  I was so tickled that I had to turn around – and saw another girl listening and grinning.  She was as tickled as I was!

I decided that since I was going to just go out slowly so I wouldn’t do anything stupid with my “glitch”, I started all the way at the back of the pack.  I actually enjoyed doing this!  You know how you trampled in the beginning with most everyone going out too fast – not a problem when you start at the back.  And, it’s kind of nice to spend the rest of the race passing people!

The course ran along a couple of the greenways here in Roanoke.  Now, don’t get excited – I have not turned into a trail runner.  These are paved greenways!  The go along the river and for the most part are shaded.  It really is a nice course.

It was an out and back course and as you are going down the lovely, winding hill for about half a mile – all you can think about is that you have to go back up it on the return.  Which, I might add, is about at 9 1/2 miles.

After the turnaround, it was starting to get warm.  I didn’t mind it – remember I like warm!  But, I did a lot of encouragement to others to help them get through to the finish.  I always enjoy when I’m not racing for time (which I rarely do anymore) and just try to help others.

Everything went according to plan.  I had my BOOM gels every 45 minutes and a Salt Stick after the first hour.  The water stops were spaced pretty perfectly and were well staffed.  Of course, there always seems to be that one.  At the 3 mile stop – it was manned by 4-5 teen age guys. They had the water and Gatorade on the tables and were back sitting back on a rock.  I guess handing the cups out would have been a little too much exertion for them!  

I came across the finish line in the slowest time that I ever remember doing a half marathon in. But, I had a blast!  I helped people along the way and hopefully helped them.  And, no harm to the hammy/glute that I’ve been nursing!

After I finished – I looked up and saw a big surprise.  Hubby had come out to see me finish!  And, he had a Pepsi for me!  Have I ever told you how much I love that man?

Once again, Race 13.1 put on a class race.  I didn’t have a PR or a good time by a long shot – but, I had a blast – and isn’t that what running is all about?

[therunningdiva]

Monday Running Motivation 9/21

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rak1DdkTIxk)

[therunningdiva]

Here are some quick and easy exercises to get you ready for your run. (via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16jCb6eIZ7Y)

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0rQSk155x4)

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbhqBHoVHDA)

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPF71YPuJ9k)

[therunningdiva]

Staying Mentally Tough During Road Races

You have to be in shape physically to complete a road race. However, you also have to have the right mindset to get through it. No matter how well you’ve trained and how great shape you’re in – there will be spots during a race where you need to have your mind in the game. All runners have had races where they just don’t think that they can go on. But, they do. Here are some tips to help you mentally get through those rough patches.

First of all, when you are feeling sluggish, don’t think of how far you still have to go. Take it in chunks – like little goals to hit on your way to your major goal (which is finishing). Just think about getting to the next mile marker. Or think about getting to the next water stop. Having these little goals really help you forget about how much distance you actually do have left.

Pick someone to catch up with and pass. This person could only be just a few yards ahead of you – or a few hundred yards. Just make it a goal to catch up with that person and pass them. Then, pick another person and go after them. You’ll be surprised at how fast the miles will fly by.

Picture yourself as a world class runner. Imagine that you are running in a race in the Olympics. The crowds cheering for you are at Olympic Stadium and you only have a little ways to go to claim your medal. See yourself running smoothly, efficiently and quickly as a professional athlete. I know it sounds weird, but it does work.

Listen to the cheers of the crowd and get motivated by them. The crowd noise can really get me going during a bad part of a race. The yelling for the runners, the high fives from the little kids – all of this can help you. Savor that and know that they are cheering for you.

Have a positive affirmation that you say to yourself. Mine is “I am a strong and healthy runner”. Or you may say, “I run all distances with ease”. Your mantra could simply be, “I can do this”. Pick something that motivates you when the going gets tough.

Everyone has races when they may struggle a little to get to the finish. Just stay mentally tough and you’ll make it. Remember that you need to be in shape mentally as well as physically.

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6CQy3ecKLM)

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KIoavKbC_4)

[therunningdiva]

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3loeTHtpkpg)

[therunningdiva]

An Amazing Book About The Boston Marathon 2013

First of all, I was hesitant to purchase this book.  I didn’t want to contribute to anything or anyone that might make money from the Boston Marathon bombings.  But, it is authored by Hal Higdon, a running author and coach – who I’ve always admired.  He has been writing for Runner’s World longer than anyone else.  So, I figured that he would not be doing any sensationalizing what happened.  

Then, I read more about what the book was about and I had to read it.  And, I was right.  4:09:43: Boston 2013 Through the Eyes of the Runners is written through the words of those that were there.  He took the stories of 75 people from that day in Boston.  Most of them were actually runners in the marathon – and a few family members and a few volunteers.  All of them willing to share their thoughts and experiences from that day.

I loved reading the stories of the runners.  They shared what was going through their minds throughout the whole race – from the start to the finish line.  What they were feeling along the way – the aches, the pains, the love from the crowds, etc.

The stories are from those that finished before the bombs went off, those that were right there and from those that were still on the course.  They talk about not really knowing what was happening at first – then trying to meet back up with their family and friends.

This is a book that I absolutely could not put down.  In fact, I read it all in one Sunday afternoon and evening.  

As Boston 2014 is coming up –  4:09:43: Boston 2013 Through the Eyes of the Runners  is a must read.  If you are planning on running Boston – it will get you more ready than ever.  If you’re not running Boston – it will make you want to train harder to be sure to be there next year.

This is a great addition to your running book library.  I know that you’ll enjoy reading about the marathon from the eyes of those that were there.

Run Happy!

Judy

[therunningdiva]

Review Of The Asics GT-2000 Running Shoe

First of all, I’ve been wearing Asics running shoes for more years than I can remember. It seems like most of the time – and there have been exceptions – that putting on a new pair of Asics is like putting on a favorite pair of bedroom slippers.

The Asics GT-2000 is no exception. And, yes, I’ll admit – I was drawn to them by the pretty purple color. If you’ve been running very long – you know that for years and years, running shoes have been pretty boring. All, white or cream with different color stripes or swooshes or whatever is on your brand. And the stripes were usually some sort of blue.

A couple of years ago – stripes starting getting more colorful – I remember my first pair of slimer green ones. Then, last year – all the pretties starting coming out. Bright pinks, purples, greens – I love it!

Anyway, I did a little research before I ordered these – yes, I did even though they were pretty!   It turns out that the Asics GT-2000 is a good shoe with the cushioning and support that I need in a shoe.

I’m a neutral runner – but running high mileage – cushioning and support is super important to me! The GT-2000 has the gel cushioning in the front and the rear of the shoe to absorb shock. I won’t bore you with all the technology behind how Asics makes their shoes so supportive – it’s just important to know that they do!

When I got these in the mail last week – I was reluctant to immediately put them on and head out the door. I’ve been battling Plantar Fasciitis for a couple of months and have just started doing all my runs outdoors again. The treadmill has been my friend during recovery due to the softer surface that is more forgiving.

But, I put them on and headed out the door for an easy 3 miler. And, was I pleasantly surprised! Great support – and in the heel area where I especially need it right now!

I highly recommend the Asics GT-2000 running shoes. In my opinion, Asics has done it again! You can find these shoes at: http://judyruns.com/gt2000. It’s a great shoe that will give neutral runners or mile to moderate overpronators the cushioning that they need!   Not, to mention that they look really cool!

Run Happy! Judy

[therunningdiva]

Running Tips – The Unwritten Running Rules

There are rules to running.  Most of them you probably know.  These are the ones that you read about all the time.  For instance – always run facing traffic, don’t increase your mileage more than 10% from one week to the next, etc.

But, there are unwritten rules for running also.  These are the ones that you don’t hear about every day – if you’ve even heard about them at all.

1.  Don’t wear the shirt that you get at the race during the actual race.  

Seriously, it’s definitely one of the unwritten rules.  If you haven’t been running very long and are running your first road race – it’s really tempting to wear the shirt that you get during the race.  But, don’t.  Save it to wear on the way home.

2.  Don’t jingle as you run.  

Nothing is more annoying to be running with a group – or during a race – and you all you can hear is their keys, loose change or whatever.  Not cool.  Make sure that you have whatever you are carrying secured so that it won’t make noise.

3.  Stand still at stop lights.

I’m not sure why some runners do this – but they do.  There’s a lady who ran in my hometown that would stand there at stop lights and run in place.  Never really understood why.  (There are some days when I see stop lights as a little rest time!)  You won’t lose any endurance by actually stopping for a few seconds.

4.  Watch where you rid yourself of bodily fluids.

Yes, I am going here – because it’s an unwritten rule and must be followed!  During a long run or road race, you will get “build ups”.  Whether you dispel them via the snot rocket or by spitting – look to the sides and behind before you do.  If you’ve ever been hit by flying “stuff” – you know what I mean.  Enough said.

5.  Have fun!

You read all about running and do this/don’t do this regarding eating, sleeping, training; but, never about the most important rule.  Have fun with your running.  Unless you are getting paid umpteen million dollars – you should be running because you enjoy it!  And, even if you are getting paid – you should still enjoy your running!

Well, there they are – my unwritten rules for running.  I think that they’re important and should be followed.  How about you?  Do you have any running rules?

Run Happy!

Judy

[therunningdiva]

Do You Spend More On Your Running Shoes Than Street Shoes?

This is a picture of my new running shoes!  Aren’t they pretty?  I can’t wait to run in them!

My new shoes, though, did get me to thinking about something.  Runners can do some strange things.  Yes, I mean all of us – me included.  Our spending habits prove this.

It’s important to wear good shoes when you run.  We all know that.  We try to get the best value that we can – but if you are running a lot of miles – you need to have a great shoe.  And, great shoes cost.  We find deals – but still usually end up paying anywhere from $75 – $100 easily for a good pair of running shoes.

And, we don’t blink.  We know that we need the support and a well-made shoe so that we don’t get injured.  So, whether it’s Asics’ Gel, Nike’s Zoom Air, or New Balance’s ABZORB crash pad – we know that we need it!

But do you spend $100 for your everyday shoes?  I know that I don’t.  In fact, sometimes, I’m even ashamed at how cheap I can be.  I’ll have an internal debate with myself over $50 for a pair of shoes that I’ll wear every day.  Yep, I know.  It’s crazy.

But, I also know that I’m not alone!

How about you?  Are you like me?  Reply and let me know!  I’d like to know that I’m not alone!

Run Happy!

Judy

By the way, here is the link to my too cool new shoes!  http://budurl.com/gt2000

[therunningdiva]

Running Motivation – Read A Book Or Watch A Movie!

Yes, runners sometimes need that little something to get them out the door for their runs.  Or to keep them running once their out there.

We’ve been talking in the last few posts about staying motivated with your runs.  Here is the link to the first post in the series about how runners can something lack with Running Motivation.

One of the best ways that I found to stay motivated is to read a book about runners and their inspirational stories.  There are so many runners out there (famous and not famous) who have overcome so many things to keep running.  If you think that the hangnail on your pinky toe is keeping you from running – make sure you read about someone who is running with one leg.

There are books about overcoming obstacles, first marathons, how running has helped someone through difficult times in their lives – just so many great stories out there.

Here is a link to some of my favorite books:  http://judyruns.com/RunningBooks

Movies about running and runners is also another way to keep motivated.  If you are not wanting to get out the door – put a running movie on.  You will get lost in the movie and feel that running motivation coming back.  You won’t be able to lace up those shoes fast enough!

Here is a link to some running movies and documentaries:  http://judyruns.com/runningmovies

If you don’t watch any other movie – make sure you watch Spirit Of The Marathon!  This movie follows 5 runners (both elite and amateur) as they train for the Chicago Marathon.  It is a great movie!  (And, Spirit Of The Marathon II should be out soon!).

So, if you find your motivation is lacking – pick up a couple of books and a movie.  I’m pretty sure that it will get you fired up to get back out there!

Run Happy!

Judy