5 Tips For Your First Half Marathon
“13.1 – You know, only half crazy”
Last week, I introduce my blog world to Travis. An ordinary guy who’s about to do something extraordinary – go from non-runner to half-marathoner. If you missed that blog, don’t fear, it’s right here.
I’m so excited for him and it got me thinking about other runners preparing to lace up their kicks in less than two weeks and tackle 13.1 miles throughout the beautiful community of Fargo. That’s right, first-time-half-marathoners, I’m talking to you! I wish you all a happy, healthy run.
For all the Fargo first-timers, and anyone prepping for a first half marathon, here are my five essential prerace tips to ensure your bod is at its best on race day.
Take a Taper
Half marathoners don’t need to follow the same three-week, strict taper that’s a hallmark of full marathon training, but should spend at least the week prior backing off on mileage, getting more sleep and getting eating more balanced to that of a normal – er, I mean, non-runner – person.
I’ve never been a fan of the taper but this year I really needed it (as explained in my Boston Marathon taper blog) and I embraced it. And you know what? The world didn’t end. And I actually felt strong and happy on race day.
See – you don’t want to miss out on the race expo.
Rest the Day Before
Tying in with the taper is the all-important prerace rest day. Try to stay off your feet as much as possible the day before the race.
The exception to this rule: the race expo. You have to go to pick up your packet so walk around to check out the booths. The energy, the excitement, the excuse to buy unnecessary running swag – oh how I love the expo!
Skip…Leg…Day
OMG that was such a struggle for me to type! I love leg day and I’m very vocal that it should be part of everyone’s workout program, runners included.
But the week before the race is not the time to push your legs to the point of fatigue. It’s the time to ease up on their workload and give them a break so they can be strong and light on race day. So, as much as I love a good leg workout, I’m giving you the okay to skip it – just this once.
Don’t Overload
Carb-loading, fat-loading, beer-loading (nope, that’s not really a thing). Whatever fueling strategy you follow in the days leading up to the race is fine, just don’t overeat, especially the day before the race.
Yes you want to be properly fueled but you don’t want to feel sluggish – or have to hit the porta-potty by mile 3 (let’s be honest, sometimes that just happens no matter how well you prepare).
Hydrate, Hydrate
While you don’t want to overdo it on food, overdo it, just a little bit, on water. Drink it throughout race week and, most importantly, all day the day before the race.
Your first half marathon is one of the greatest feelings ever. I’m super pumped for you all. To my fellow Fargo runners, I hope to see you out there on May 21!
Now, I want to leave you with one final tip that’s not designed for you bod’s health, but it’s my favorite piece of advice for first-timers: Start a Tradition.
Most athletes have a pre-game ritual; one thing they always must do in order to have their best performance. Part of it’s mental; part of it is that athletes are so disciplined, it’s one more easy thing they can add to enhance routine and mental prep. You’re a runner, you’re an athlete, so take a page from the pro’s playbook and start your own tradition.
Let me share my tradition story. It involves food (shocking!):
Lindsay runs on Jimmy.
The day before my first Fargo Marathon, I ate Jimmy John’s for lunch. It was delicious, it fueled me up and I had a great run with no stomach trouble. Since then, Jimmy John’s has been my official Fargo Marathon prerace lunch. And I even took it one step further – when I’m in peak training, I eat Jimmy John’s for lunch every Friday, in prep for long run Saturday. Oh, but it doesn’t end there. I eat Jimmy John’s for lunch after a big race too.
Yep, I love me some Jimmy John’s. Shameless sponsorship plug: Please sponsor me, JJs.
Maybe you’re not planning to ever run another race. But, as runners know, racing is addicting! So why not create something that’s just yours, just in case you race again?
If you like this post and think other runners would too, please share it on Facebook or Twitter. As always, if you have questions or something to say, please leave a comment or tweet me, @runlikeagirl311.
Radio Guy, Mama’s Boy & Half Marathoner – Meet Travis Hopkins
“I may not be the strongest, I may not be the fastest. But I’ll be damned if I’m not trying my hardest”
Today begins a new series on the blog. For the past few weeks, I’ve been interviewing people in the health and fitness world. Not just any people, those with unique stories, those with some kind of notoriety, just something to make for an interesting read and conversation.
First up, a guy who’s training for his first half marathon. The Fargo half marathon is happening in less than 3 weeks and he has been hard at it since January. I first took notice of his leap early this year; the guy has never been a runner and decided to run a half marathon for his first race (I can relate!). I’ve since followed his journey on his Facebook page and have admired his progress, dedication and positivity.
Because the Fargo Marathon is a special race to me, and because there’s still time for anyone interested to get inspired and sign up to run, I wanted to kick off my interview series with him. Blog pals, I’m please to introduce to you: Travis Hopkins!
L: What’s your fitness/athletic background, as a child and your high school years?
The day it all began.
T: In grade school I was in every sport, especially good in basketball. Once I reached middle school my interests grew towards music and entertainment and I drifted away from athletics. I had never been a runner though. In fact, in high school when we took the annual fitness tests, running the mile was my least favorite. And it wasn’t pretty, my mile was in the 14 mins range, yikes!
L: So you’re going from non-runner to full-out, half-marathon mode – what made you decide to go that route?
T: Around November of last year I told myself I wasn’t going to indulge in all the holiday treats and I would make it a point to hit the gym more. A few weeks of watching my diet and maintaining exercise, I noticed better sleep, better energy, feeling better, and losing weight. Then the New Year came around, and I’ve never been one to make a New Year’s Resolution; however, I decided to set goals.
L: (I’m smiling at this point because, as we all know, I don’t believe in New Year’s Resolutions either)
T: I thought to myself, I need to do something once for all that will get me past that wall that I always run into: A few weeks of diet and exercise, and then my busy work schedule takes over and I go backwards, maybe even fall behind further than from where I started. [Trav is promotions director for Radio FM Media and an on-air talent for 107.9 The Fox]
A 5K or a 10K, those were too short of goals. I chose the half marathon, that’s 13.1 miles, that’s going to take everything I’ve got. For the first 6 months of my year, it would be training, running, dieting, getting educated, especially since I had never ever done something like this before!
L: Speaking of that training, what has that been like? Can you describe the workouts?
T: My week begins with a Sunday afternoon strength training session. I use to be one of those guys that hated “leg day” but now it’s become a priority! I try to do a full body strength training work out in general. Mondays, weather-permitting, I will either run to work or run home from work, literally a 5K distance. With weather getting nicer, I want to run to and from work on the same day. Tuesdays and Thursdays I work with my Ultra Body Fitness trainer at Anytime Fitness. He’s really great about making sure I’m stretched out, working on any soreness, realizes what I need to work on to help me progress and ultimately achieve my marathon goal. With my trainer I typically get full body workouts, circuit training to boost my endurance.
For me, it’s the accountability and the hard work. It’s not a successful workout unless I’m face down on the floor after it’s all said and done!
L: Okay, that’s all good – but tell me a story of training that shows the not-so-glamorous side of running! We all know I love to keep it real on the blog so you’ve gotta have something good for this, right?
T: Yes!! My first attempt at a run outdoors, I ran to work on an 18-degree day in January. I had just run across the street, nearly falling because it was icy, and BAM! A big truck goes by, hitting a big puddle, and covers my entire backside with water. Soooo cold!! I still had two miles to run yet before I reached work so now this water is freezing all over my back, my nose is frozen and runny, my eyes are watering. I felt like I was getting put to the test.
L: Oh no – that’s such a good one! If it makes you feel any better, I too have been victim of the drive-by-puddle-splash.
T: Well if that wasn’t bad enough, a co-worker was driving by and slowed down to take a pic. But I made it; I finally reached work, mission accomplished, and I’m a wet, dirty, sweaty, frost-covered mess! The co-worker who drove past me is the one who drives me back to my house so that I can shower and change to come back to work and make my meetings.
L: Ha ha, a nice gesture after slowing down to take a pic of your misery and probably laughing!
T: Some good came from it though. Mrs. North Dakota gave me props all over social media that day! And the marathon committee took note and have ever since been extremely supportive in my quest.
L: That’s awesome! Have your family, friends and co-workers been supportive of your quest as well?
Post-run with a few members of #TeamTrav.
T: Not only are my family and friends being very supportive but the community is being very supportive. Folks I’ve never met are following me on social media with encouragement and support. Some of the ladies from the TV show, “Pretty Strong” on Oxygen were tweeting support!
L: What do you feel has been your proudest training moment thus far? Describe it and the feelings when it happened.
T: Hands down accomplishing my first big run! It was me and a couple of co-workers who signed up to be on #TeamTrav for the half marathon. One day, they said, “Next Saturday, we’re running 6 miles. Be ready!”
So I prepped, I trained, the day came and, not only did I complete the 6 miles, I finished ahead of them. It felt amazing! I actually got choked up over it ha, big baby.
L: It’s crazy how the emotions take over with running! We’re almost done and we’ve made it to my most important question: What’s your favorite food?
T: The one thing that has always been my vice, even though I’ve cut back on them, I still enjoy my iced turtle mochas from Caribou Coffee ha! Damn I’m weak, it’s hard to say no to those!
L: Love it. Like I always say, gotta #TreatYoSelf!
T: I hang my head in shame but with a smirk ha!
L: Do you have a personal “slogan” or quote that you really believe?
T: The 107.9 The FOX morning show said it best to me one day when I was whining about the hard work: “Suck It Up Princess!” Ha, whenever I feel like I’m hurting on a run or pooping out their voices speak loudly in my head “Suck It Up Princess!”
L: I can hear Robbie, Dave and Moose saying that. It’s perfect!
Lastly, the part of the interview I’m calling “Anything but the Obvious” – what’s something totally unrelated to fitness, your radio/music background, and all the obvious stuff, that you’d want people to know about you?
T: I’m a mama and a grandma’s boy! They both raised me from a very young age. They were strong, hardworking women who got it done. Once I left the nest, I never wanted to disappoint them. I have a role in a film called “Supermoto” that premiered at the Fargo Theatre as part of the Fargo Film Festival. I play a bad guy but who do you think I had on my arms at the premiere: my lady, my mom and my grandma. Three special gals, how lucky am I?!
L: I would have never guessed that and that’s why it’s so great!
And, okay I lied I have one more question. Be honest: Do you enjoy running? Like, do you think you’ll stick with it after May 21?
T: I have learned to enjoy running and the benefits that I receive from it. I absolutely want to run more marathons in the future! I’m not fast. I’m not in tip-top shape, yet. But for the first time in my life I’m running and it feels awesome!
I asked Trav about his goal time for the race and he wants to just keep running, no matter the pace, and finish with his head held high. I know he will and I can’t wait to be there at the finish line to give him a well-deserved high five.
Those of you who want to run with Trav, check out his Facebook page, Feel the Burn with Trav, and sign up on the Fargo Marathon website. Please leave him a comment on his page or here on the blog with your best piece of advice for the first time half-marathoner or just well wishes for a great race on May 21!
My Experience Running the Boston Marathon
“You’re everything I hoped for”
Wow. What else can I say, just wow.
Enjoying my Sam Adams 26.2 brew at Cheers!
Okay, I do have more to say – a lot more! My experience running the Boston Marathon was nothing short of incredible. I know this isn’t surprising to anyone so, rather than drone on about how great it was, let me take you through it, including some surprises, hilarious happenings and favorite moments.
As this entry got a little longer than usual, I’ve divided out the experience into some nifty subsections; those of you with short attention spans can scan thru and those of you who want to read about the full experience, please do. Cheers!
The People
You think you know what 30,000 runners and 500,000+ fans is going to look like – but you don’t. It’s unbelievable, unreal.
I’ve never seen so many people come out for an event. There was never a time the crowd was thin; the streets were packed every single mile. The Boston Marathon and Patriots’ Day truly is more than just one city’s race, one city’s day – it’s like a national holiday.
And the volunteers. So many volunteers! And thank goodness for them because I felt so cared for the entire time. From the bussing volunteers to those directing us to the start line to the ones who handed us water, gel and Gatorade at every mile – thank you!
And, my personal favorite: the 70ish year-old-man who greeted me at the finish line with a smile and, “Welcome back to Boston. We’re glad you’re here.” I made it the whole day without crying – up until that!
The start line – I still get chills thinking about it.
Early Miles
Most veteran runners give the same piece of advice to newbs: Don’t start out too fast, no matter how good you’re feeling. You’ll need that energy for those later miles. Very true for this race so I made sure to start and maintain a nice, easy pace for the early miles. Not only was I saving energy for the Newton Hills and the infamous Heartbreak Hill, I was trying to look around and soak in as much as possible.
The Signs
Spectator signs have become one of my favorite things at races. This race was no exception, they were everywhere! A couple signs about farting and pooping. A few about Trump and the government. A ton of, “Boston Strong,” and two of the classic, “Run Like Someone Just Called You A Jogger.” The signs were pretty typical, except there was one that stood out to me. It was a small one that read, “Boston loves yaaaaahhhhh!” Made me smile!
The Wellesley Girls
There came a time, around mile 11 I think, I started to hear something. It sounded like cheering, but so much louder than the fans so far. It was the Wellesley girls and the famous “Scream Tunnel,” that I could hear nearly a mile away. Girls lined up just screaming.
Also, the signs. “Kiss me, I’m Canadian.” “Kiss me, it’s my first time.” Dozens of others like that. So I did – sort of. I kissed my hand and high-fived a ton of the girls, blew kisses at the rest.
When my friend Tom ran Boston, he did it in just over 4 hours. Had he not stopped to kiss the Wellesley Girls, he jokes he could have broken the 4-hour barrier. The Wellesley Girls distracted me enough that I missed a sub-3:50 finish by 10 seconds but it was totally worth it. Those girls were rad.
Beating the Heat
It was a warm, sunny day. I knew that was going to be an issue for me. Luckily, I was able to beat the heat by capitalizing on several opportunities. First, I ran through every water obstacle possible – kid in the yard with a hose, giant fan blowing water by the firehouse, the sprinkler tent – I hit em all. I even had a drafting strategy; running right behind a person going thru the aid station, dumping water on him/herself, getting the mist from the breeze. Okay, I didn’t really have that as a strategy, it just kind of happened.
Also, props to the B.A.A. for setting up aid stations at every mile. This was a lifesaver; even though it slowed me down, I stayed cool, hydrated and cramp-free. From about mile 16 and on, I think I took advantage of every aid station for water or Gatorade. The mile 10 aid station was the one where I inhaled a big gulp of water up my nose…don’t worry, I recovered quickly.
Random Things
To my OCR and Spartan Race peeps – around mile 9, I saw a guy step off to the side of the race to do burpees. He was wearing a Spartan headband. I gave him a big AROO!
I wore my Fargo Running Company tank and tons of people yelled, “Go Fargo!” I wish I would have kept count, it was so cool! The best had to be the guy who yelled, “Yeah, Fargo! Go Minnesota!” Well, not quite – but it is practically in Minnesota so we’ll go with it.
Speaking of yelling, from about mile 4 to mile 9, I must have been running next to the town celebrity, Nina. I heard, I don’t know how many cheers for Nina. Maybe she had NINA in big, block letters on her bib? Or maybe she was a local gal who everyone in that stretch came out to watch. Either way, Go Nina!
Numerous countries were represented in this race too. At some point in the race, I saw or heard cheers for Brazil, Canada, Korea, Mexico and Sweden.
A final random note, a lot of people had vicious cramps in this race. I think it was the heat or maybe the hills. A woman got a cramp so bad, she fell into me around mile 17. I saw a few other runners fall or stumble off to the side, rubbing their calves. And, the most heartbreaking thing I saw was right before turning onto Boylston street. A man collapsed in major pain. There were medics there within seconds and I have to think he was able to get up and finish the race. He was SO close – he just HAD to finish.
My post-race party, courtesy of the hard-fought miles & hills.
The Hills
Okay, let’s be clear about something – there are hills throughout the entire Boston course. Nothing outrageous, not an excessive amount. But they’re there, throughout the race. Anyone who tells you to only prepare for the Newton Hills (miles 16-17ish) and Heartbreak Hill (20-21 area), they’re forgetting the rest of the race is a lot of up-and-down terrain. Mile 25, for example. Yep, that was a big ol incline.
Living in one of the flattest areas of the country, I did my best to train for a hilly course. I was confident I’d handle them well and I did. I knew my big butt, tree trunk legs and strong upper body would come in handy sometime and they finally did! It was hard to watch fellow runners struggle and walk up the hills while I powered on by – but this ND girl was proud! And because of that, I can honestly say, this might have been my favorite part of the race. Boston Hills=0 Lindsay=1!
The History
This was the 120th year of the Boston Marathon. For a full century and two decades, people have been lining up in Hopkinton and running through the outlying cities before arriving in Boston. And it’s not just the runners; for 120 years, people have lined the streets along the route to cheer on runners. It’s hard to think about that and not feel special to be part of that kind of history.
Another piece of history I thought about several times was the bombings. It has only been a few years since that horrid, senseless act of violence. Seeing all the “Boston Strong” signs and feeling the energy of a community coming together – again, it’s hard to think about that and not feel incredible to be part of it.
Finally, I have to give a shoutout to Bobbi Gibb. 50 years ago, she changed the game for marathon running when she became the first woman to finish the Boston Marathon. Not only that, she kicked ass, finishing in something ridiculous like 3:21. That’s what it means to #RunLikeAGirl!
The Town of Boston
For a race called the Boston Marathon, surprisingly little of it takes place in the city of Boston. I think it’s only the final three miles.
Maybe it’s because it was towards the end of the race. Or maybe because the lines of fans along the streets were just that thick. But I don’t remember any of the sights or areas I ran thru in Boston. What, we ran by Fenway Park? You’d think that would be hard to miss…
What I do remember though were three main things:
1. The Boston Strong bridge. A reminder this race was so much bigger than just me, than any of us runners really. It was about good overcoming evil and bonding hundreds of thousands of people together on one day, in one event, for one moment.
2. The last part of the race that winds through a park-like setting. Something I remember from watching the Boston Marathon on TV. Soemthing I definitely noticed, and it reminded me I was running the same race as elite athletes.
3. Boylston Street. My friend, Kristin, described running the last few tenths of the race down Boylston as one of the most significant moments in her sports life – her life, period. I didn’t fully understand until I was there. It was incredible. Something I’ll never forget and maybe my most cherished memory of them all.
My Friends
Finally, the prerace comments on the blog, tweets, texts, Facebook posts – everything. I was bombarded by so much love and support from you all that I can’t even describe the gratitude. I always knew the Boston Marathon was a big deal to me but the fact so many others remembered and acknowledged this day – I can’t even put that feeling into words. And as you all know, I’m not one who’s ever at a loss for words.
So thank you, from the bottom of my heart – and the soles of my feet. Ugh, my poor, gross feet. xoxo
Whether you were there, watched it on TV or just cheered on the runners from your desk at work, please share your Boston Marathon experience with me. Comment or tweet me @runlikeagirl311 on Twitter.
Time to Run the Boston Marathon
“I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 2(6.)2”
Today, Chris and I leave for Boston. Can’t wait for the sights, the food, the Red Sox, and the time with just me and him before we enter into wedded bliss – and of course, to run the Boston Marathon!!
Just the essentials.
The blog will be quiet until I’m back; hence the earlier-than-usual weekend entry. Expect a full race recap upon my return. In the meantime, I’ll be taking pics, some during the actual race, and sharing on Instagram and Twitter. I invite you to follow along!
Also, now that this chapter on the blog is coming to a close, it’s time to start a new one. I’m launching a new interview series on the blog and am super excited about it. Each month, I’ll have a new interview with someone awesome in the fitness world. I have some amazing people lined up – a first-time half marathon runner, a popular blogger who’s a fellow dog lover, an Ironman-in-training, and, this one might be my personal favorite: an Olympic runner! That one will be just in time for the Summer Olympics. I’ll keep the series going as long as people like it and as long as I have interviewees so please share your feedback and, if you’re interested in being featured, contact me, post a comment, or tweet me.
As I prepare for the biggest race of my life, I of course have some thank yous to share.
To My Family:
First, to my mom. You’ve been one of my biggest supporters since I began running. You were there for my very first race 10 years ago, and have showed up to every marathon since, most half marathons, even some 10ks, 5ks and triathlons. Even when I messed up the time and you and pops showed up 20 minutes after I had already finished a race, you were still excited to be there. This goes to my dad and stepmom too, who have understood that my life often revolves around running. And my extended family and siblings, for the encouragement – even though you probably think I’m crazy.
To My New Family:
My soon-to-be in-laws. The cards, the encouragement, the prayers and the love. I’m lucky to be marrying into such a great crew.
My BFF is a wife, mother, teacher & thinks I’m Wonder Woman. #loveher
To My Friends:
For understanding why I can’t go out on Friday nights, why it’s so difficult to schedule dinners or weekend time with me, and for always being my cheerleaders – in fact, many of you are former cheerleaders! Special shoutout to Brandon, Brenton, Jenny and Shari for voluntarily getting up early, dragging your asses way up north of town, getting out onto the course and watching me run a marathon. And the biggest virtual high-five goes to Kristin for all the advice, encouragement, and endless answer of questions about Boston over the past three years.
A good luck card, complete with a Jimmy John’s gift card – they just get me.
To My Work Teammates:
I eat constantly at my desk. I drink so much water and pre-workouts I’m getting up to refill bottles and pee every 20 minutes. I consciously try not to talk about running all the time but I know I probably talk about running all the time. You guys are around me more than anybody and, not only do you put up with all my shenanigans, you encourage me. I couldn’t ask for a better group of people with which to live the cube life.
To Everyone Who Reads the Blog:
Thank you for coming back every week to read about my crazy adventures and loudmouth opinions, my never-ending stories and glimmers of actual advice. Thank you for all the positive feedback, shoutouts on Twitter, and embracing all the photos of my dogs and my food. I love writing, for me, but knowing people out there read it, enjoy it and maybe learn something from it – that’s what keeps me wanting to make this blog the best running and fitness blog out there.
To Chris:
I can’t possibly list all the reasons why I need to thank you. I feel like I should try but the list would go on and on and I know I’d still forget something. So just, thank you for being my person.
And we’re off! See y’all next week!
Follow me on Twitter @runlikegirl311
And Instagram @runlikeagirl311
Runner Banned from Boston Marathon Deserves Her Punishment
“Integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching”
A runner has been banned from this year’s Boston Marathon and all future B.A.A. (Boston Athletic Association) events, apologizes, says she meant no harm, and has supporters who feel bad for her and think she receive unfair punishment.
I earned this. It wouldn’t mean anything if I didn’t.
That’s the story in a nutshell. Now let’s look a little deeper at what happened:
Runner qualifies for 2015 Boston Marathon (yay).
Runner gets pregnant and is unable to run (bummer but yay for a baby).
Runner gives her bib to someone who did not qualify (not cool).
Runner assumes that person’s finish time as her own and uses it to register for 2016 Boston Marathon (liar, cheater, deceiver).
She deserves the punishment she got. I can’t even believe there’s any debate on this and that people are supporting her. One supporter says what she did is okay because Boston is a race that’s “almost impossible for anyone to get into these days.” Um, I got into it. My friend, Don got in. My friend, Kristen ran it only a couple years ago. How in the world did all of us, regular folks, got into an impossible race? By working hard and putting up a qualifying time in another marathon.
Furthermore, I can’t believe she tried to make excuses, saying things like “we all innocently transfer our bibs.” Um, no, we don’t all do that. And even if people do it in most races, there’s nothing innocent about transferring a race bib, one that has to be earned, to someone who didn’t earn it. Another humdinger she came up with, “This year I was able to run…healthy and not pregnant…so I was going to run Boston!” Um, let’s not forget, you registered this year using someone else’s time. So just because you’re healthy and able to run doesn’t mean you are entitled to.
Speaking of excuses, there are plenty more “buts” this runner and her supporters could use to rationalize what she did and excuse her behavior. All are bullshit and, even though you’ve probably read multiple opinions on this story by now, I’m going to give mine.
Hats off to all who work hard & run hard to earn their victories.
But…she didn’t sell her bib
B.A.A. rules clearly state that you cannot transfer bibs. As I stated above, this isn’t a typical race where you pay a fee and get to run; it’s a race that one must qualify to run. Giving a bib to someone who didn’t earn it is disgraceful to those who did and those who barely missed the cut or who did qualify but still missed the cut.
That’s right; so many people want to run the Boston Marathon that some people who qualify still don’t even get to run it. Had this runner forfeited her bib like she should have, she could have opened up a spot to a legit qualifier who barely missed the final cut.
But…people who can’t run races give away their bibs all the time
I don’t believe this is true. I mean, I know it happens but not “all the time.” And even if they do, let me repeat: the Boston Marathon isn’t a typical race you just sign up for and get to run. You have to earn your spot. People work for months, years to get that bib.
Anyone who runs this race and didn’t earn their way in is just as disgraceful as the person who gave away the bib. A disgrace to the prestige of this race and the elite status it has earned.
But…she was pregnant and had to forfeit her place when she did qualify
Good for her, she decided to get pregnant. That was her choice. She knew a consequence of that choice was she’d have to forfeit her place in the race. The fact she applied for a pregnancy deferral (to try to carry over her qualifying time to this year instead of having to lose it last year) only further shows that she knew what she was doing was cheating.
But…she has qualified to run before
Think about this: A few years ago, I ran a 42:40 10k and won the race. The next year, I didn’t run as fast and came in second. The woman who beat me ran the race in 43 minutes and change. Since I ran faster than her the year before, should I have demanded I be the winner of that race?
See how stupid that sounds?
But…the woman who got the bib ran a time that was of BQ standards
Really? Please see above statement. Actually, all of them – please see ALL of the above statements.
But…
No more buts. The B.A.A. has the authority to set its rules and punishments for those who violate those rules. And it has every right to uphold those rules to their fullest extent. If they didn’t, would we all train so hard for the honor of running this race?
Bravo, B.A.A. It’s nice to see an organization that has the balls to hold people accountable for their own actions. I can’t stand it when people make excuses for their bad choices and expect no repercussions or, worse, expect sympathy. I have even more respect for the BAA and even more pride to be part of one of its races. Side note, I don’t know whether or not the woman who ran with the bib she didn’t earn was banned too – but I hope so.
Now let me just say something else here: I’m not naïve. I know this runner isn’t the first person to do this and certainly won’t be the last. I know celebrities and other people of influence or stature are allowed to run the Boston Marathon without having to qualify. I’m not happy about it but, again, the B.A.A. has the authority to set the rules and I support it.
Up before sunrise, running in cold – qualifying for Boston is work.
Finally, to the runner who did this. You know what you did was disrespectful to the B.A.A. and anyone who has earned their spot in this race. You don’t need to hear it from me – even though you just did. And I don’t care you admitted what you did and posted an apology. I’m not a gambling woman but I’d wager my house that you only did so because you were caught. Had you not been caught, you would have run and never spoke a word about your error in judgment. So I have no respect for you for “owning up” to this. When no one was watching, you chose to do what you knew was wrong.
I guess, maybe now in hindsight, she really does mean it. Or maybe, deep down, she still feels like the victim and the actions were justified because the intentions were good. Like I said, at this point, I don’t care. What I do care about is she was caught and punished, and hopefully that will discourage others from lying, cheating and tarnishing the honor of this race. A race I personally worked my ass off for three years to be able to run. A race tons of people never get the opportunity to run, even if they qualified or because they missed the cut by as little as one minute.
There, you’ve all now heard what I think. Now I want to hear what you think. Runners and non-runners, do you agree with me or think I (and the B.A.A.) are being too harsh on this runner? Please comment below or tweet me @runlikeagirl311 on Twitter.
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Marathon Training & Taper Time
“Rest. Relax. Repeat”
The marathon taper. In my seven years of running full marathons, the taper has been something I dread. One of those things I know is going to happen and I can’t control it – right up there with chafing, stomach trouble and the cry-worthy long run.
But this blog is not about how much I hate tapering. Brace yourselves. I’m about to shock you all.
Kids have a security blanket. I get separation anxiety without my compression socks.
I’m so excited for the taper. That’s right. I’m at the point in training where I’ve reached the taper and I’m thrilled for the easing up the next three weeks will bring.
WTF, Lindsay? You HATE the taper. Why the 180-degree flip? As I often do, allow me to explain.
For whatever reason, this marathon training season has been really tough on my body.
I’ve struggled with a hamstring issue that started as a stiff, sore muscle and now has creeped its way up through my glute and lower back, all the way down to my knee, sometimes causing sharp pain on longer runs.
I’m one black toenail away from my sans-toenail toes outnumbering the piggies that are still hanging onto the nails.
Speaking of my feet, I’ve racked up more blisters and callouses than I can remember from past years.
My arches and calves are always sore, so I’ve been spending a ton of time in full compression socks.
I’ve been a slave to ibuprofen and ice packs, to foam rolling and physical therapy.
And the toughest part about all this? I have no idea why.
I’m not training harder than last year but there are plenty of theories.
Maybe my 10 years of incredibly consistent running have finally caught up to me.
Maybe after years of a mentality that includes “never skip leg day” and, “c’mon, you can run faster than that,” my body is finally saying “For the love of all things good, please give me a break!”
Maybe it’s the simple fact that I’m getting older.
Maybe it’s a combination of several things.
Just hangin with my BFFs.
Either way, this is the first time in my years of marathon training that I don’t feel at my strongest leading up to the taper – in fact, I feel pretty beat up. So I’m welcoming this taper. I NEED this taper. I’m ready to cut my body a little slack, ease up and trust that I’ll still have a great run on April 18. One that I’ll enjoy and where I’ll be proud when I cross the finish line – no matter what the time on my watch reads.
Now, this newfound love of the taper is all purely based on my physical side. The mental side of me never wants to accept anything but full-throttle. It’ll be a little harder to get mental Lindsay onboard with physical Lindsay’s new embracing of the taper. But I think it’s going to be okay. It’s going to be a really good thing for me.
I should also mention, as I type this, I’m coming off yesterday’s 22-mile run – which was good yet exhausting so I’m enjoying a day off today. Come tomorrow, I’ll have forgotten that feeling and be so amped to hit the pavement, I’ll for sure have to fight myself from trying to run 10 miles (my max tomorrow is 7 and I do not need to exceed that for any reason!). We’ll see.
Anyone else out there hitting their taper week now or soon? Are you looking forward to it or are you a hater of the taper? Comment below or tweet me @runlikeagirl311 on Twitter.
Boston Marathon – The Countdown Begins
“I think I’ll go to Boston”
And it still didn’t sink in.
The Boston Marathon is only four weeks away. I’ll say that again – the Boston Marathon is only FOUR WEEKS AWAY. Eeekkk! On one hand, it still hasn’t fully sunk in for me that I’m running it. I mean, I’ve been training for several weeks now and I’m in full marathon mode. But the fact that this is the race I’m working towards, that I get to be part of the 120th Boston Marathon is still so surreal. I have a feeling that’s going to stay with me when I pick up my race packet, line up at the start line, and even after I cross the finish line.
On the other, I’ve been training for several weeks now and I’ve reached the point where I’m ready, excited and nervous – pretty typical pre-marathon feelings for me. So with my biggest week coming before the taper (yes, I still loathe the taper – funnily enough, last year’s taper in particular had some ties to the Boston Marathon), I’ve decided to focus some of that nervous energy on my mental health. More mindfulness and meditation, as well as some of the fun that comes with a trip to Boston!
Last year, we did Wrigley. This year we’re doing Fenway!
We have our Red Sox tickets but, other than that, I’m still figuring out the fun things to do and places we have to go see – anyone who lives in Boston or knows the area well, please send me any recommendations of what I need to do when I’m there!
With that, I’m going to start researching my eating strategy – and by strategy, I mostly mean finding a Jimmy John’s for my pre- and post-race lunch (a marathon tradition for me), a good, simple place for my night-before dinner, and a bunch of other must-visit places to fill in the rest of the week. Again, anyone who has suggestions, please let me know.
A final note, I’d like to share a few of my favorite blogs from – you guessed it – my time spent in Boston last year:
Change Your Mindset, Make Your Exercise Program Stick
Meditation, Mindfulness and Mental Wellness
Side note, it’s now officially spring! Hope everyone has a great week.
Those of you who’ve run the Boston Marathon – any advice for a first-timer?
And again to anyone who knows the area, don’t forget to send me any must-see things to do in Boston! Please comment or tweet me @runlikeagirl311 on Twitter.
Fit Comes In All Shapes, Weight & Sizes
“I’ve been training all season to eat at Super Bowl party level”
Today’s the day! For some, it’s like Christmas. For others, the commercials are the real draw. For Ace Ventura, it meant coming to the rescue of Dan Marino and Snowflake the dolphin, but that’s a whole different story. It’s Super Bowl Sunday!
Ah, the big game. I love the Super Bowl. First, I love football, plain and simple. Second, I love food. Chris and I have started a tradition called, “Sushi Super Bowl Sunday” and I’m really psyched about it. But don’t worry, this isn’t going to be a blog where I drone on and on about how I love food. I think by now, we all know where I stand on food.
Not exactly the Super Bowl but, hey – On Wisconsin!
No, this seemed like a good opportunity to write about a topic I’ve been wanting to for awhile but just haven’t found the right link. About bodies and what a fit body looks like. The idea stemmed from a few uncool things I heard last year about two awesome female athletes – Serena Wiliams and Lindsey Vonn.
People have been saying unkind things about Serena for as long as I can remember. I guess her strength, speed and size is too awesome for some to handle. The worst though was reading and hearing people outright calling her “fat” after she won Wimbledon last summer.
Have you seen Serena Williams? That woman probably has less fat on her than most other women, nay, most men, in the galaxy. She’s strong, she’s fast, she’s incredibly athletic. Nothing but respect for her.
The Lindsey Vonn comments were on the same lines but directed right at her weight. She gave an interview where her weight was included, it was in the 170 pound range. Seems appropriate, she’s 5’ 10” and a pro athlete – I mean, the woman is so powerful and fast, she has to race on Men’s skis. Yet, people were shocked she weighed “that much.” Even though most comments weren’t outright nasty, why did everyone’s focus zero in on a number?
Somewhere along the lines, it was decided that fit and healthy meant one size. For women, that’s a small size that fits in a perfect little box. If you’re super strong like Serena or super fast like Lindsey, apparently you don’t fit into that box. I haven’t been able to figure this out for men yet; I don’t see as many asshole comments directed at the dudes and the window of what’s acceptable appears to be bigger. From Jake Gyllenhaal in Southpaw to Chris Pratt in Jurassic World to Ryan Reynolds in, well, everything, there seem to be a few examples of the ideal fit man– but I think there’s a level of unfairness to the guys too (don’t worry, I’m not trying to say the world is only cruel to the ladies).
I have the best illustration to prove a fit body comes in all sizes, builds and weights – and you can see it with your own eyes today. Watch the Super Bowl. Look at the athletes on the field, most of them the best at their respective positions, and you’ll see that a fit body comes in all sizes and all weight classes. Because we all have different body types and goals. The football field is no better example of this concept.
My pal, Cam and I are an example of very different body types but both strong runners
For example, wide receivers are often tall and lean so they can get down the field fast, make quick moves to fool defenders and jump up to match catches (think of popular players like Larry Fitzgerald and Calvin Johnson). Running backs, on the other hand, need big, powerful legs for explosive speed and to keep churning when they run into a wall of defenders (think of popular players like Eddie Lacy and Marshawn Lynch). If you need an instant visual, compare Demaryius Thomas to Jonathan Stewart in today’s game. Then there’s the offensive line, filled with guys that can only be described as brick shithouses (think of the famous Michael Oher). And, I know he’s not playing today, but Google Vince Wilfork. He’s one of the fastest, most athletic guys on any pro team – but you might not think it if you just judge him on his appearance.
Different goals and body types, all incredible athletes. I guess my point in all this is don’t worry if you don’t fit into the box. Keep doing, eating, lifting and living the way that’s right for you. Just something to chew on – along with all kinds of tasty Super Bowl, game day-approved treats today.
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Diets Don’t Work – No Matter What Oprah Says
“The commercials have spoken! You’re really gonna lose the weight this time.”
Weight Watchers really struck gold this year. Have you seen its new commercials? With Oprah?! OMG having Oprah as your spokeswoman is about the best thing ever. Everyone loves her, everyone trusts her. That’s like having…I sat here for awhile trying to come up with an equal or near-equal comparison to it but I can’t. She’s just that awesome.
Like any weight loss program with a solid celebrity behind it – think the ultra-relatable Marie Osmond for NutriSystem or crazy-adorable Valerie Bertinelli for Jenny Craig – Weight Watchers is probably going to rack up tons of added business thanks to Ms. O. But does that mean it’s the answer? Does that mean it’s a good program for you? And will it work for Oprah, a woman who has very openly struggled with weight management? The answer to all is probably No.
This won’t fit in a pink box & prob has too many “points” – but it will nourish, fuel & satisfy me!
I’m not hating on programs with celebrity spokespeople and I’m certainly not rooting against Oprah to succeed in her weight loss goals. Celebrities aside, I just want to take a look at these programs, the root of what they are. And it’s not good. What makes these programs so appealing is what also makes them bad. Simply put, they’re wrong.
Diets don’t work. You know it, I know it, everyone knows it. Diets don’t work. Yet companies like Weight Watchers, NutriSystem and Jenny Craig prey on the hope and belief that, maybe this time, it will be different. Maybe this time, it will work. Maybe this time, I’ll really lose weight and be happy. But it won’t be, it won’t and you won’t.
The reason they don’t work? Dieting is sad.
Thinking of food in terms of “points” you can’t exceed is sad.
Having to pass up beers with friends is sad.
Being restricted to eating food only if it fits into a bright-colored container is sad.
Not allowing yourself to enjoy a piece of cake at your kids’ birthday is sad.
Being hangry is sad.
The other problem with all these programs is they only focus on one half of the equation: eating. In doing so, food becomes the enemy. Something to be avoided. Something shameful.
That’s sad. And it’s so, so wrong.
None of these programs address the real reason behind obesity and health issues: people just don’t move enough. That’s the root of all the issues. Bad food choices may be part of it but lack of exercise is the real problem (and I’m not even talking hardcore exercise in the gym, I’m just talking about not sitting on your ass every minute of the day).
Duh, why doesn’t everybody?
How many times have you heard someone (or said it yourself) use the excuse, “I don’t have time to work out.” That’s such bullshit. Everyone has the time; maybe not every day, or if you have a new baby, or if you just moved to a new town, that sort of thing. But everyone has the time, it’s that not everyone makes the time. Why is that? Why are we so hardwired to loathe and fear exercise?
The weight loss folks know this. You’ll notice, none of these programs mention working out – in fact, a lot of them gain notoriety for bragging that you don’t have to work out to see results. They prey on people’s hatred of breaking a sweat. But again, why?
Rather than focusing on restricting food (which sounds kinda depressing) and avoiding certain foods (have I mentioned that’s sad?) to lose weight, why not focus on eating right to fuel the body? Eating right to nourish your body? That sounds good and positive! It’s because these companies know their market, they know their potential customers. And no one looking at these programs has health as their #1 priority. The #1 priority? Being skinny.
I think that’s wrong. And here’s why, just using myself as an example: Confidence
I don’t diet. I don’t gorge and eat with reckless abandon. I eat consciously, keeping in mind my goals, my health and my happiness. Eating to fuel my workouts, nourish my body and enjoy life. And you know what? I’m happy with myself and the way I look. Do I have a belly and some excess weight here or there? Of course! But I’m good with it because it just comes with the territory, my endomorph genetics and the balance (not perfection) I strive for every day.
This type of confidence doesn’t come from a diet. In fact, I think dieting does a better job zapping a person’s confidence than it does building it up. Me personally, my confidence comes, not from the size pants I wear, but from the level of fitness I’ve built. I can squat more than my bodyweight and help a friend move her couch. I can sprint, run marathons, and bounce up five flights of stairs – in dress shoes – without getting out of breath.
It’s worth repeating: You can’t get that kind of confidence from a diet. I don’t care if Jillian Michaels, Autumn Calabrese or even Oprah herself endorses it. You can’t.
What you can do is make your own program, something that works for you. Something that keeps you healthy and makes you happy. Especially because it’s New Year’s Resolution time, please don’t fall into the diet trap this year. Find a way to succeed that doesn’t revolve around counting points or fitting your food into expensive tupperwear.
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And if you have a great goal for 2016 that doesn’t involve weight, being skinny or any of that crap, high fives. Comment below or tweet it to me @runlikeagirl311 on Twitter..
Product Review: Muscle Egg from H&I Nutrition
“When life gives you lemons, ask for something with more protein”
I don’t always enjoy trying new things. I’m a creature of habit and routine. I don’t do fads and if something works well for me, I tend to stick with it.
Protein in a jug
There are exceptions to this rule. A few weeks ago, I stopped by the local nutrition shop, H&I Nutrition (North Dakota friends, there’s also one in Bismarck – good stuff and the owner really knows his shit. Go there.) to pick up something new Chris and I wanted to try: Muscle Egg.
Muscle Egg is pure egg whites with a little extra protein. As a vegetarian, my curiosity is always piqued by anything protein. That, my friends, is one example of when I very much enjoy trying new things.
Chris and I have since gone thru an entire jug and are on our second one. In that time, I’ve had a chance to try Muscle Egg in several recipes and compare it to regular eggs and Egg Beaters (an egg substitute, similar concept). My findings:
Positives
The Ratio
One large egg has 70 calories and 6 grams of protein. Remove the yolk, you’re looking at 15 calories and about 3 grams of protein.
A cup of Egg Beaters is approximately 140 calories with about 26 grams of protein.
Muscle Egg comes in at 130 calories and 26 grams of protein for one cup. Nearly identical to Egg Beaters.
Versatility
Muscle Egg wins in this category. I used it multiple ways – traditional scrambled eggs, in cilantro-lime burritos, spinach omelets, veggie wraps – and the versatility can’t be beat. It’s also safe to drink as-is.
I think part of the reason it’s so versatile is the near non-existent taste of Muscle Egg. It’s not overpowering and lets the other ingredients really shine. Another part is the light, very fluffy texture of Muscle Egg. Finally, it’s really easy to cook.
Negatives
Taste
As mentioned above, there’s not much taste to Muscle Egg – great when using it as a simple protein boost in other recipes, not so great to eat as “just” eggs.
That being said, Muscle Egg is offered in different flavors – chocolate, pumpkin spice, strawberry, that sort of thing. I can’t imagine eating flavored egg whites but, as I say, different strokes for different folks.
After a few tries, I finally got decent omelets.
Omelet Test
I love a good omelet. Typically I stuff mine full of spinach and a little cheese, sometimes more. Naturally, I had to put Muscle Egg to my omelet test. The result? Good but not great.
Muscle egg doesn’t cook up as thick as Egg Beaters, nor does it hold its form well. It kinda fell apart and became more of a veggie scramble. The second time I tried, it was a little better but still resembled more of a veggie crepe than an omelet.
Still, it was workable in omelet form and tasted good packed with spinach, mozzarella and topped with avocado.
Conclusion: Just as there will always be coffee, something chocolatey and a shitload of chicken in our kitchen, there will always be a carton of Muscle Egg in the fridge.
Those of you who have tried Muscle Egg too, any recipes to share? If so, please leave me a comment!
As always, please feel free to share this post on Facebook – tag H&I Nutrition! – or Twitter. You can tweet and connect with me @runlikeagirl311 too.