No Disappointment, No Regrets, No Boston
“There are no regrets in life, just lessons”
This past Saturday, on the nicest morning Fargo has seen in a long time, I crossed the finish line of my sixth full marathon. Topping that off, I got from mile 1 to mile 26.2 in a new personal record time of 3:39:04. It was my best race to date and I felt pretty amazing, mentally and physically, the entire way.
Oh yeah, and I didn’t qualify for the Boston Marathon.
This blog could easily be one full of disappointment, regrets and what-ifs. After all, anyone who knows me or has followed my training the past two years knows how badly I want to earn my way to Boston. As nothing more than an average Joe, I’ve always known a BQ time was a long shot for me – but for some reason, still something I’ve felt is worth working towards. Even tho I missed the mark by fewer than five minutes, I’m oddly not at all upset. In fact, I feel incredibly proud of myself for trying. I’m so happy with my performance and have zero regrets in how I raced those 26.2 miles.
Hard to see, but I’m grinning like an idiot as I finished.
I ran this race hard; hands down the best marathon I’ve ever run. I knocked about 7 minutes off my previous PR. It was a gorgeous morning for a run and I enjoyed every mile. Best of all, I had wonderful friends who showed up all along the course to cheer me on, and I was greeted with even more proud friends and family at the finish line. What more could someone ask for?
Yes, I started off that day with 3:34:59 as my goal. At 50-ish degrees, partly sunny and a light breeze, I had ideal weather for a great run. I kept up the pace I needed for about 18 miles before I really started to lose steam. Yet, when I got to mile 22 and came to the realization that, mathematically, my Boston time was no longer attainable, I wasn’t that upset. Very early on, this race had become less and less about Boston and more and more about something bigger. For the first time in a long time, I was really focused on me, just doing what I love to do. Even when my pace was slipping away, I still felt amazing about how well I was running. Of course, it helped knowing I was in good position to put up a new PR. But also, I made a promise to myself when I began setting goal finish times for marathons: That I’d never be disappointed in myself for missing a goal time; for “just finishing” a marathon – no matter what.
Barring any serious injuries or a life-altering moment, I’ll have plenty more chances to qualify for Boston. This race gave me more confidence, and some good lessons I can apply to my next round of training and race-day strategy. So, yeah, I’ll keep trying. Even if I’m never quite good enough to make the cut, what’s the worst that could happen – a new PR?!
The Dreaded Taper
“It’s difficult to train for a marathon. It’s even more difficult to not be able to train for a marathon.”
Today marks, for me, the worst part of marathon training. More daunting than a 20+ mile run. More dreaded than under-the-toenail blisters. Maybe even scarier chafing. I’m talking about the taper. The dreaded taper.
A four-letter word (okay, it’s actually five) in the vocabulary of marathon speak, the taper is, in my opinion, the worst phase of training. I’m quite certain I warned Chris about it months ago so he could prepare for me to be very unpleasant. Yet, on the surface, it probably sounds fantastic. Allow me to explain.
The taper is the three-week (approximately) period between a runner’s highest mileage long run and the actual marathon. During the taper, said runner is to slowly decrease daily and weekly mileage – easing the burden on the body, preventing overtraining and allowing the legs to rest a bit before the big event. Sounds nice, right? Let me tell you, it’s not.
I’ve spoken to fellow runners throughout the years and most agree; they hate the taper. Everyone’s reasoning is different. My personal problem with the taper is simple – it’s an incredible mind f*ck. Picture it:
You’re about to run the biggest race of your life, pound out more miles in one run than you have so far. You’ve been building up your mileage and endurance for several weeks. You’re feeling strong, both physically and mentally. Your metabolism is on fire and you’re putting away more food than an NFL prospect during training camp. And now, just three weeks from the big day, you’re supposed to just stop all that?
For me, running is such a mental sport. Sure, it takes endurance and physical strength like any other sport. But your brain has to be onboard with your body. I don’t care how great of shape you’re in; the average person is not going to get up at 5:30 a.m. on a Saturday and gut through a 20-mile run if they’re not mentally psyched about it, nor are they going to suck it up when they’re not feeling well or pass up happy hour to get in a run.
The rational side of me understands my body needs a break. I’ve been putting it through 20, 30 and 40+ mile weeks since January; forcing it to run sprints on speed work days; pushing it to run “just one more mile” on several occasions. And I did just run 22 miles this morning. But when it comes to running, there really is no rational side to me. Even with five marathons under my belt, I can’t get past the mental aspect of the taper. It feels wrong. I feel lazy and like a slacker. I’ve put in so much hard work for so long and now I’m easing up, this close to the finish? Almost like choosing to walk the last mile of the race, even though I’m not tired and I feel like I could sprint.
Of course, I’ll grit my teeth and follow the plan. Just don’t ask me if I’m going to scale back my caloric intake to that of a normal person. Because that would be crazy.
Runners, how do you feel about the taper? If you’re like me and a hater, how do you cope? Tweet me @runlikeagirl311.
Product Review: XRACEWEAR Race Tank Top
It’s February in North Dakota. Believe it or not, there aren’t a lot of races or triathlons going on right now. Even so, the guys at XRACEWEAR in Tucson were kind enough to send me a sample of their women’s racing tank to try out. I was so pumped when I received it, I couldn’t wait til spring race season – so I wore it to the gym to get a feel for it.
If you’re not familiar with XRACEWEAR, it’s the innovative company that makes race clothing with built-in bib holders – eliminating all the shenanigans that go along with pinned-on race bibs like poking holes in your clothes or your bib ripping off mid-race. Genius!
No safety pins required!
Upon arrival, I made my initial observations that would be the points of contention during the workout test.
1. The tank appeared to be very slim fitting
I’m not a skinny girl so slim-fit typically isn’t for me. However, when I put on the top, it fit perfectly, snug in the right spots, yet not so tight that I felt restricted in motion at all. Very well designed for a woman’s body. Verdict: Win #1
2. The tank lacked a built-in bra
Most athletic tank tops have built-in bras so I was a bit nervous that this one, designed for running, didn’t. But that’s also what made the top fit so nicely – most women can relate; built-ins, while a good idea in theory, don’t always make for a comfortable fit. Additionally, it eliminated uncomfortable seams in the armpit area and any chance of excessive rubbing – aka: chafing, the single biggest fear of every runner. Verdict: Win #2
3. The tank had a large mesh pocket on the belly
Thank you, Captain Obvious. Of course there’s a pocket, hence the entire point of the company’s clothing line. But it was surprisingly seamless with the rest of the top. The mesh was light, the zipper nicely hidden. Didn’t feel stiff or bulky. In fact, I didn’t even notice it was there during my workout. Verdict:Win #3
The biggest benefit I discovered was one I originally hadn’t thought of: How well this top would work for triathlons. Anyone who has ever done a tri (and doesn’t wear a special tri suit) knows the biggest challenge isn’t the open water swim or transition from bike to run – it’s trying to put on a race top right out of the water. It’s a pain in the ass to put on clothes when you’re wet (the aforementioned athletic tops with build-in bras aren’t even a possibility because of this) and you can’t have your bib pre-pinned on your top, as the pins will pop off as you struggle to put it on. The XRACEWEAR top would save a ton of precious seconds during the transition from swim to bike. Add another point in the Win column.
The only drawback I could see was the pocket accommodating larger bibs. I tested it out with an average-size old race bib and it was a bit large to fit smoothly in the pocket. Not a major issue though, as I could easily scrunch the top so the number still showed. Or, I could simply cut down the bib.
Bottom line: I’ll definitely be wearing it for races and can’t wait to give a full review after the first one. And I’m really excited to wear it for a triathlon this summer and see if it makes as big a difference as I believe it will.
Questions about this top, tweet me @runlikeagirl311.
Man Up and Lift Like a Girl
“Strong Is [Not] the New Skinny”
I’m a girl, so I run like one. Proud of it too. However, I apparently lift like a guy. At least, that’s what I’ve been told and what my lifting habits suggest based on “normal” female standards.
There are a few articles circulating the internet and Facebook right now that touch on the stereotypes of women’s bodies and workout habits – in particular, what’s acceptable in terms of our muscle mass and making sure we know it’s important to remain skinny. After reading it, I felt the need to address this topic myself because I’ve wanted to for awhile and I feel it deserves the attention.
Women are conditioned to believe skinny is the ideal body type, and any bit of strength is unfeminine or borderline gross. Look at the suggested workouts in any women’s magazine or listen as celebrity trainers describe the programs they take female clients through. Virtually none of them encourage picking up a dumbbell heavier than 8 pounds, if they encourage picking up one at all. Seriously, 8 pounds? Some of my earrings weigh 8 pounds.
I love my muscles – and Kaepernicking
There’s this fear instilled in women that if you lift heavy weights, you’re going to get bulky and big.
Fact #1: Shy of taking a ton of supplements and lifting several days a week, women’s bodies simply aren’t designed to get bulky.
Fact #2: Big comes from eating, not lifting.
I’ve seen this “fear” all over the internet, via Facebook posts and articles that are all about how we women can tone up but also reminding us we need to lose weight so we stay thin and desirable. But I’ve also witnessed it firsthand too many times at the gym. 95% of the time when I lift, I’m the only woman in the weight area – not in the gym, in the weight area. Women flock to the cardio machines to torch as many calories as possible but avoid free weights, cables and squat racks like they’re forbidden to touch them – a grown up “No Girls Allowed” zone. If I had to estimate how many women I see lifting, and I mean really lifting, on a typical night at the gym, I’d say maybe three or four. Compare that to the 30-plus guys lifting and it’s pretty disappointing.
I want women to know it’s okay to be strong. It’s not gross or unfeminine. It’s okay to venture into the weight area, grab a bench and some dumb bells, and crush it. Don’t be afraid to push yourself and sweat (but please, don’t grunt unnecessarily or loudly drop your weights to attract attention – sorry, pet peeve rant over). If you’re not sure of where to start, grab some men’s magazines – that’s right, MEN’S magazines – and browse free weight exercises. Then, choose a few that target a certain muscle group or groups (back and triceps or chest and biceps) and scale the suggested weight to your ability – keeping in mind my two crucial lifting rules that I myself swear by:
Rule 1: Lift as heavy a weight as you can while still being able to rep with proper form
Rule 2: If you can do more than 10 reps, your weight is too light (*exception: BodyPump class – which I’m a fan of for mixing it up and working all your muscle groups)
Geez, I don’t know Lindsay. I don’t want to build muscle; if anything, I just want to look toned. Guess what? That “toned” look that it’s okay for women to have – that’s actually what we call muscle definition. In order to get that, you need to BUILD MUSCLE. Then you can have something to “tone”. Sound fair?
Girls and guys, have something to add on this topic? Post a comment or tweet me @runlikeagirl311.
The Other Half of a Runner
“There should be a support group for the significant others of marathon runners”
I read this comment on a friend’s Facebook wall yesterday, after he posted the results of his 20 mile run, and had to address it.
I’ve never been on the other side of this situation but I know I wholeheartedly agree with her comment. I have the utmost respect and gratitude for those who put up with all that goes along with being the other half of a runner in training. And it reminded me how lucky I am that my partner in crime, Chris, has embraced all the shenanigans that come with me, Runner Lindsay.
And there are plenty of said shenanigans. I offer both some reasoning for our partners, to help better understand why we runners are the way we are, as well as some simple reminders for runners to show appreciation to those who love us regardless.
Runners Can Be Snobs – Unintentionally
“Lins, how was your long run?” Me: “Great! It was only 12 miles today so nice and easy.”
I know how awful that sounds. It’s pretentious, snobbish and likely makes the person asking feel like he or she is about as lazy as a Basset Hound. Trust me, it’s not our intention to make everyone else feel inadequate. I think it’s actually a perfect example of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity – in running terms.
Marathon runners often log 18, 20 and 20-plus-mile long runs during peak training. The weeks prior to and after those big ones are significantly lower in mileage to ensure our legs aren’t overly fatigued. By the time we work our way up to those big ones in our schedule, a 12 mile one seems like a walk in the park.
A Runner’s Mood Can Be Entirely Determined By A Run
I could score my company a great PR placement, win a free lunch and snag a front-row spot in the gym parking lot – essentially, have a great day. And it can all be wiped out by a bad run. It sucks that we, as runners, let our mileage or speed or splits define us. It can be even worse for a supportive partner who cheers us for getting in 5 miles after a long day. It’s one of those moments of which we have to try and let go, and be especially conscious NOT to take it out on our partner or let it disrupt their good mood.
On the flip side, a horrible day be saved by a kickass run.
A Runner’s Schedule Revolves Around Running
Chris respects my need to have quiet Friday nights and go to bed before the 10:00 news begins. He’s happy to stay in and watch a movie on a Saturday night if I had a tough long run earlier that day. And when he asks if I’d like to join him and his co-workers for happy hour after work, he prefaces it with, “Don’t worry if you can’t make it. I know you need to get your run in.” I’m grateful for this understanding and accommodation.
True, we runners sacrifice plenty to make room for our lifestyle. Let’s not forget our significant other feels the pain of that sacrifice just as much.
Finally, how many times have you taken a step back during training and thought, “Why am I doing this?” Why do we sacrifice sleeping in and going out on weekends? Why do we force ourselves to push our mileage on those days we feel like we just can’t? I think runners are very driven, goal-oriented people who are able to see the “big picture”. When we have those doubts, we’re able to get back into the positive mindset quickly. But imagine how our partners view it.
While they do see some of our joy, they see a lot more of our pain, tears and frustration. Most of all, they don’t have that end goal in sight. They’re not the ones who get to experience the runners high and euphoria of crossing the finish line. I have to think it’s incredibly difficult for even the most supportive person to understand all the questions of “why?” Yet, they still support us. It’s easy to understand why they deserve a support group all their own.
This is just scratching the surface; there are plenty of other things our partners put up with like our smelly clothes and eating copious amounts of food. All we can say is thank you and we appreciate it. And, for most of us, this level of committed, hardcore training typically isn’t year-round so you won’t always have to put up with it!
Have something to add or want to give a shoutout to your best guy or gal? Leave a comment or tweet it to me @runlikeagirl311.
The Buddy System
“I get by with a little help from my friends”
Earlier this week, I shared with you all how I found my way into running. A big part of the leap came from a friend. She gave me two of the most important things I think anyone entering a fitness program needs: accountability and encouragement. I recommend anyone who wants to get into running or fitness in general to enlist in the help of a friend. Hell, I still rely on my BodyPump buddy, Heidi, as motivation to drag my lazy ass to class every Tuesday morning at 5!
But back to running. Nowadays, I very rarely run with other people, especially if I’m training for a specific race. I’m far too OCD with distance and speed to chance that the person I’m with won’t be on the same high-strung, anal-retentive page. But I do have one running buddy that I always enjoy hitting the pavement with – my dog, Burton.
Even in snowy, cold weather, Burton is ready to run
Burton is a ridiculously energetic 2 ½ year old Bug – a mixed breed of Boston Terrier and Pug. One look at him, 19 pounds, huge wide-set eyes and smooshed face, you’d never guess he’s a runner. In fact, the reactions I get when I casually mention he and I went for an 8-mile run are priceless. He’s not a Lab, Weimaraner or other breed associated with runners, but what he lacks in size, he makes up for in speed and endurance.
Aside from pushing my pace per mile, I think the best part of running with Burton is I can always count on him. He has never once turned down the chance to run because he wasn’t in the mood. He’s never thrown in the towel after two miles because he’s tired. He goes when I want to and he won’t stop until I stop. He just might love running more than I do.
I don’t mean to say other people or those I’ve run with in the past are lazy, slow and unreliable – not at all. Any workout buddy, whether human or not, is worth their weight in gold, just by being there. By offering empathy. By understanding that we all have days where our bodies just want to say no. I guess I’ve just grown to prefer the company of Burton during my runs over anyone else. It’s kind of become “our thing” and I like that.
I’m not alone in this. There’s a wonderful blogger I follow, Lea, whose blog title outright states her love of running with her dog – runningwithollie.com. I’m especially excited to share her blog on my own, as Burton and I are going to be featured on it tomorrow! I’ll share the link here and on Twitter, and I hope you’ll check it out.
A final thought: If you’re in need of a workout buddy, consider the furry friend curled up on the couch next to you. I’d bet he or she would love to get outside and hit the pavement with you.
Any other dog moms/dads out there who love running with their fur baby? Comment or tweet me, @runlikeagirl311.
Finding The One
“All it takes is a spark to ignite a fire.”
I can’t recall the exact date. I don’t remember how long it was the first time. But I do know that since this relationship began, it’s been one of the healthiest of my life. Before I go any further, get your mind on the right track – I’m talking about running.
Those who know me today might assume I’ve been a runner all my life. Not the case. There was a time I hated running. My high school sports team started each practice with a one-mile warm up run. And I complained the whole way. I dreaded it. I petitioned for why we shouldn’t have to run. Yep, all this fuss over one damn mile.
Fast forward to college. I was working at a local gym, occasionally hitting the elliptical to try and shed some of that famous college weight many of you may remember. Jen, my co-worker and friend (also former teammate and fellow running hater) told me she decided she was going to run a 5k. I thought to myself, “Why?” Also, “Damn, 3 miles! No way I could do that.” Yep, I let that negative voice inside my head talk me out of something before I had even given it a try.
A couple months later, Jen ran that 5k. I was so proud of her – and a little jealous. I wanted to cross the finish line too. I wanted to be proud of such an awesome accomplishment. It made me wonder, should I give this running thing a try? I’ve seen the runners at the gym. They look great. They’re hopelessly devoted to the sport. There had to be something more to it than “just running”. Also, the thought of it reignited the competitive athlete inside of me, the one I hadn’t seen in nearly 5 years. She was kind of a badass in her heyday and I wanted her back. But that negative voice was still there, telling me I couldn’t do it.
Jen (right) and me – not running, just having a little fun.
Then the best thing that could have happened did: Jen asked if I’d ever want to run a race with her, and train together. The thought of having someone there with me made think I maybe could do it. So we made a commitment, one of “Go Big or Go Home” caliber: To run a half marathon in May of 2007. That was the spark.
One thing I didn’t expect was the lifestyle change that came with training. Instead of going out on Friday nights, I stayed in and went to be early so I could be there for Jen Saturday mornings, and be at my best for me. We slowly worked up our mileage each weekend. We hit the treadmill and cross-trained on our own during the week, always knowing we had to report to each other on Saturdays. No way in hell was I going to be “the weak one” so it kept me motivated to stick to the weekly workouts. When May rolled around, Jen and I lined up with all the runners (neither of us felt like a real “runner” yet) and ran the entire half marathon. Crossed the finish line. Holy shit, was that a trip.
After that, I could have easily quit running. I completed my goal, after all. But I didn’t quit. I wanted to keep at it. I wanted to get better, faster. In those months of training, I had formed a relationship with running. I lost several pounds. I got stronger. I was healthier, both mentally and physically. I felt closer to that athlete inside me. Running just made me feel good. It changed my life, it saved my life.
Like any relationship, we’ve had our ups and downs. There have been some love/hate moments. It hasn’t gotten easier over the years; we have to work at it nearly every day. And, I admit, some days I just don’t want to. But running has given me so much, I oddly feel like I owe it the same. Or maybe it’s that I realize running is one of those things where, the more effort you give to it, the more rewards you get back from it.
I’d love to hear about how you found your way into running – or walking, swimming, weight lifting, fitness in general. Tweet me @runlikeagirl311.