If you have read my post about how awesome it is to run for a cause, then you know that I will take any chance I have to participate in any such race- well, my new friend Alicia is running for a great cause that is close her heart, and she needs your help. She will be running the Utah Valley Marathon on June 11th, and she is running for Train4Autism. She is in need of help to raise money for this charity, and she is hosting a virtual 5K in order to help raise the remaining money needed to reach her goal. It's really easy to do, and she has some fantastic companies that have donated great prizes that she will give out at the end of this 5K. Please, go check out her website, share this with your friends and family, join me and let's have a fun, group 5K experience, all while supporting Alicia and Autism Awareness. aliciaruns.blogspot.com Good Luck, Alicia!
THANKS, EVERYONE! :)
Friday, May 27, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Energy Draining Habits
Let's talk about our habits for a minute.We all have them. Some habits can be good, and then some can be bad-not just bad, but bad for us.
Believe it or not, some of your habits may be draining the energy right out of you and you don't even know it (our bodies can be sneaky that way). The following are definite "energy drainers":
Attitude. If you find that you consistently "wake up on the wrong side of the bed", that negative attitude quickly turns into a negative mood that will last for as long as you allow it to. Negativity depletes your energy. Instead, "fake it until you make it"-smile even if you don't feel like it. Think happy thoughts until you feel your attitude change to a more pleasant one. Surround yourself with positive people. Eventually, you'll find that the more positive you are, the more energy you have.
Keep it straight. If you have your computer sitting lower than your head, you are creating several problems. That heavy head of yours weighs about 10 pounds, so you can imagine the strain on the muscles in your neck, back, and shoulders from having to support it at an angle -- especially for hours on end. Experts say all that effort decreases blood and oxygen flow to your brain by as much as 30 percent, making you feel tired. Arrange your desk so you can sit straighter, try back and neck stretches throughout the day, and try core-strengthening exercises to improve your posture: Pilates is great for this.
Play That Funky Music. Research shows that upbeat music makes runners stride more quickly. The chances are great that it'll have the same positive effect on you, as you're sitting at your desk powering through that spreadsheet, or just going about your everyday routine on "auto pilot". Take a few minutes and put together some fun, upbeat tunes on your playlist, and see if you don't notice a difference in the way you work. If you need any suggestions, let me know-I'd be more than happy to help out.
Sleeping in on weekends. Sure, it feels amazing to sleep past your normal "wake up time" on Saturdays and Sundays. But once you finally get up, you'll feel groggy for quite a while -- a condition called sleep inertia, which is caused by your body being tricked into falling into a deeper sleep than you're used to at that hour. The best bet? Sleep in an extra 30 or 60 minutes both days, and then get moving with some good old fashioned exercise-take your dog for a morning jog, or go for a swim to get that heart pumping and the blood flowing. Then, stay active all day long-you'll find it easier to get things done, and you'll feel better both physically and emotionally.
Water consumption. Experts say you should shoot for half your body weight in ounces. So, a 120-pound woman should drink 60 ounces. Add an additional 20 ounces for every hour of exercise. Why? Dehydration exacerbates grogginess! If you're looking for something a little more flavorful than plain old water, try adding some crystal light or Special K Protein Drink Mix in your water. You can also add a little lemon for just enough flavor. Drinking carbonated drinks is not the solution, no matter how good they may taste.
Stretching. Exercise experts say that a good, all-body stretch expedites recovery after your long, hard run or cycle and improves circulation, both of which will keep you feeling energized long after you've left the gym. Skip this crucial step, and you may find yourself feeling sleepy and sore. Give your body a good warm-up before your main workout, and stretch well after the workout when your muscles are loose-you will experience less injury this way.
Pita and hummus. A lot of foods give you energy, but the pita-hummus combo is the best choice because it has the three components -- fat, carbs, and protein -- that keep your brain awake and ready for action. To keep your energy going throughout the day, munch on foods that contain the following nutrients: Vitamin E, Iron, Potassium, Zinc and Magnesium. If you get in your daily recommended servings of fruits, veggies, nuts and beans (varied kinds), you are more likely to accomplish this than if you choose to eat refined and processed foods (which will cause your energy levels to skyrocket and then plummet faster than anything).
If you find that any of these habits may be on your list, then make some changes and take notice in the difference in energy your body has.
Believe it or not, some of your habits may be draining the energy right out of you and you don't even know it (our bodies can be sneaky that way). The following are definite "energy drainers":
Attitude. If you find that you consistently "wake up on the wrong side of the bed", that negative attitude quickly turns into a negative mood that will last for as long as you allow it to. Negativity depletes your energy. Instead, "fake it until you make it"-smile even if you don't feel like it. Think happy thoughts until you feel your attitude change to a more pleasant one. Surround yourself with positive people. Eventually, you'll find that the more positive you are, the more energy you have.
Keep it straight. If you have your computer sitting lower than your head, you are creating several problems. That heavy head of yours weighs about 10 pounds, so you can imagine the strain on the muscles in your neck, back, and shoulders from having to support it at an angle -- especially for hours on end. Experts say all that effort decreases blood and oxygen flow to your brain by as much as 30 percent, making you feel tired. Arrange your desk so you can sit straighter, try back and neck stretches throughout the day, and try core-strengthening exercises to improve your posture: Pilates is great for this.
Play That Funky Music. Research shows that upbeat music makes runners stride more quickly. The chances are great that it'll have the same positive effect on you, as you're sitting at your desk powering through that spreadsheet, or just going about your everyday routine on "auto pilot". Take a few minutes and put together some fun, upbeat tunes on your playlist, and see if you don't notice a difference in the way you work. If you need any suggestions, let me know-I'd be more than happy to help out.
Sleeping in on weekends. Sure, it feels amazing to sleep past your normal "wake up time" on Saturdays and Sundays. But once you finally get up, you'll feel groggy for quite a while -- a condition called sleep inertia, which is caused by your body being tricked into falling into a deeper sleep than you're used to at that hour. The best bet? Sleep in an extra 30 or 60 minutes both days, and then get moving with some good old fashioned exercise-take your dog for a morning jog, or go for a swim to get that heart pumping and the blood flowing. Then, stay active all day long-you'll find it easier to get things done, and you'll feel better both physically and emotionally.
Water consumption. Experts say you should shoot for half your body weight in ounces. So, a 120-pound woman should drink 60 ounces. Add an additional 20 ounces for every hour of exercise. Why? Dehydration exacerbates grogginess! If you're looking for something a little more flavorful than plain old water, try adding some crystal light or Special K Protein Drink Mix in your water. You can also add a little lemon for just enough flavor. Drinking carbonated drinks is not the solution, no matter how good they may taste.
Stretching. Exercise experts say that a good, all-body stretch expedites recovery after your long, hard run or cycle and improves circulation, both of which will keep you feeling energized long after you've left the gym. Skip this crucial step, and you may find yourself feeling sleepy and sore. Give your body a good warm-up before your main workout, and stretch well after the workout when your muscles are loose-you will experience less injury this way.
Pita and hummus. A lot of foods give you energy, but the pita-hummus combo is the best choice because it has the three components -- fat, carbs, and protein -- that keep your brain awake and ready for action. To keep your energy going throughout the day, munch on foods that contain the following nutrients: Vitamin E, Iron, Potassium, Zinc and Magnesium. If you get in your daily recommended servings of fruits, veggies, nuts and beans (varied kinds), you are more likely to accomplish this than if you choose to eat refined and processed foods (which will cause your energy levels to skyrocket and then plummet faster than anything).
If you find that any of these habits may be on your list, then make some changes and take notice in the difference in energy your body has.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Overcoming Obstacles
OK, I know that my telling you about my first marathon experience was not very comforting or encouraging if you are even contemplating the idea of taking up running. It sounds anything but fun, right? In fact, it probably sounds painful, grueling, and overall dreadful. Who would want to spend their time and energy on something that could potentially wind them up in the operating room?
Trust me, there is a method to the madness. I chose to share my experience with you so that you can hopefully learn from my mistakes and make wiser choices. As I explain the rest of my story, hopefully you will see what I mean.
So, as I was saying- it really could not get any worse than what I had already gone through. Although I had never had the intention of running another marathon, my competitive side knew I was capable of doing better and so I immediately put my mind to it. I knew that I had "trained" the best that I knew how, but that was the problem-I didn't really know what I was doing. I had spent a little over a year just running and trying to build up my endurance, and that was it. I didn't train with anyone; I didn't read anything or ask anyone what to do because I simply didn't know those were options.
However, after visiting the doctor and hearing the news that he wanted to operate because my knee was toast, I instantly began changing things. There was no way I was going to let them touch my knee. Not that I don't believe in modern medicine- I have gone under the knife a few times because there were no other options, but I knew that there had to be another option in order to for me to keep running.
To try and keep my extremely long story a little shorter, let's just say that I spent A LOT of time looking things up on the Internet, reading running magazines, watching and talking with other runners, etc. I got new running shoes, I tried different things (gels, chomps, running belts), I changed the way I ate (I began to eat healthier), and I changed the way I train. I didn't just run, I strength trained as well. As it turned out, that saved my knee. As I strength trained and ate healthier, my body got stronger. Then, I began to take some amazing supplements-which, for those of you who know me, you know I hate taking pills. But I took them faithfully, and along with the other changes I made, I became stronger and healthier than I have ever been.
One year later, it was time for the St. George Marathon. This was the day I had been waiting for, and I knew I was ready. I was up at 3:30am getting ready. As I got ready, I began to get butterflies in my stomach- I peaked out the window........no rain. Not even a cloud in the sky-whew! At 4:30am, I found myself boarding the bus once again. Slowly, my stomach started to tie into knots, but I quietly rode up the canyon, listening to other runners chatting nonstop. I began to engage in some conversation, and it took my mind off of my nerves.
As we pulled up to the start line and got off the bus, I found myself looking around and instantly I thought "What was I thinking?"
I paced and stretched and tried as much positive self talk as I could muster. Deep down, I knew I was ready. I was just having flashbacks from the year before, and my fear was trying to get the best of me. Luckily, my will won out, and I told myself "This is it. The only way back is on your own two feet. Suck it up and just move-you'll be fine." (I know, I am so nice to myself-but I have to "tough-love" myself at times).
The next thing I know, I am looking in amazement at 7200 other runners from all over the world. To me, this is such a cool feeling! People from all walks of life, from all over the world-we don't know one another from Adam, but we all share this one passion, and this one event has brought us together. Oh, I can't even begin to describe how that moment makes me feel. It's very empowering.
Then, the race starts. My nerves quickly fade as I turn on my music and find my rhythm. So far, my experience is completely different: no rain, a little chilly, but overall nice. My energy levels were up, and my knee felt great. My confidence was in check, and I felt mentally prepared. By mile 8, I was still trucking along and feeling good. I found myself running at a faster pace than I was during training, so I was very excited.
Mile 13: feeling a little tired, but I was running an average of 9min/mi. and so I knew I was doing OK.
Mile 18: BAM! That was when my knee had had enough. I could feel it stiffen and it was throbbing. Thankfully, my iPod was still going. I just kept focusing on my music and the beautiful scenery, and tried to ignore my knee.
By mile 22, I wanted so badly for the race to be over. I kept telling myself "you're almost there", and I still tried to ignore my knee. Finally, I saw it- mile 25. I mustered up every ounce of energy that I could possibly find within myself, and I ran my heart out for that last 1.2 miles. Finish time: 5:13:19. Not what I was originally on target for, but much better than the previous year. My overall experience: HUGE difference from the year before.
Here I am, four years after I first began my journey toward my first marathon-and still, no surgery. I continue to get stronger and healthier, and my races get better and better. I have three goals for every race: 1-Finish. 2-Don't finish last. 3-Improve on my time every time.
I am happy to say that I accomplish these goals every race. People told me in the beginning that "Once you run a marathon, you become addicted." I thought they were crazy. Who in their right mind would want to continually run 26.2 miles for fun? But now, I realize: It's not the 26.2 miles you get addicted to, it's the sense of accomplishment and the endorphin rush, that's addicting. It doesn't matter if you run 3 miles, or 50. In the end, you walk away feeling like you have conquered something amazing, and you have. That is what keeps you going back for more. Well, that, and the way you look and feel. Your overall health is another addiction that comes with the territory.
My journey is not over-there is always another adventure around the corner. However, yours may just be beginning. What is holding you back? You don't have to go run a marathon, or even a 5K-but, there has to be something out there that will get you started on the path to a healthier and happier you.
Set your doubt, fears and old habits aside, and get out there and get moving! Enjoy life in a way you never have before, and let the doors open to new experiences. You'll be glad you did.
Trust me, there is a method to the madness. I chose to share my experience with you so that you can hopefully learn from my mistakes and make wiser choices. As I explain the rest of my story, hopefully you will see what I mean.
So, as I was saying- it really could not get any worse than what I had already gone through. Although I had never had the intention of running another marathon, my competitive side knew I was capable of doing better and so I immediately put my mind to it. I knew that I had "trained" the best that I knew how, but that was the problem-I didn't really know what I was doing. I had spent a little over a year just running and trying to build up my endurance, and that was it. I didn't train with anyone; I didn't read anything or ask anyone what to do because I simply didn't know those were options.
However, after visiting the doctor and hearing the news that he wanted to operate because my knee was toast, I instantly began changing things. There was no way I was going to let them touch my knee. Not that I don't believe in modern medicine- I have gone under the knife a few times because there were no other options, but I knew that there had to be another option in order to for me to keep running.
To try and keep my extremely long story a little shorter, let's just say that I spent A LOT of time looking things up on the Internet, reading running magazines, watching and talking with other runners, etc. I got new running shoes, I tried different things (gels, chomps, running belts), I changed the way I ate (I began to eat healthier), and I changed the way I train. I didn't just run, I strength trained as well. As it turned out, that saved my knee. As I strength trained and ate healthier, my body got stronger. Then, I began to take some amazing supplements-which, for those of you who know me, you know I hate taking pills. But I took them faithfully, and along with the other changes I made, I became stronger and healthier than I have ever been.
One year later, it was time for the St. George Marathon. This was the day I had been waiting for, and I knew I was ready. I was up at 3:30am getting ready. As I got ready, I began to get butterflies in my stomach- I peaked out the window........no rain. Not even a cloud in the sky-whew! At 4:30am, I found myself boarding the bus once again. Slowly, my stomach started to tie into knots, but I quietly rode up the canyon, listening to other runners chatting nonstop. I began to engage in some conversation, and it took my mind off of my nerves.
As we pulled up to the start line and got off the bus, I found myself looking around and instantly I thought "What was I thinking?"
I paced and stretched and tried as much positive self talk as I could muster. Deep down, I knew I was ready. I was just having flashbacks from the year before, and my fear was trying to get the best of me. Luckily, my will won out, and I told myself "This is it. The only way back is on your own two feet. Suck it up and just move-you'll be fine." (I know, I am so nice to myself-but I have to "tough-love" myself at times).
The next thing I know, I am looking in amazement at 7200 other runners from all over the world. To me, this is such a cool feeling! People from all walks of life, from all over the world-we don't know one another from Adam, but we all share this one passion, and this one event has brought us together. Oh, I can't even begin to describe how that moment makes me feel. It's very empowering.
Then, the race starts. My nerves quickly fade as I turn on my music and find my rhythm. So far, my experience is completely different: no rain, a little chilly, but overall nice. My energy levels were up, and my knee felt great. My confidence was in check, and I felt mentally prepared. By mile 8, I was still trucking along and feeling good. I found myself running at a faster pace than I was during training, so I was very excited.
Mile 13: feeling a little tired, but I was running an average of 9min/mi. and so I knew I was doing OK.
Mile 18: BAM! That was when my knee had had enough. I could feel it stiffen and it was throbbing. Thankfully, my iPod was still going. I just kept focusing on my music and the beautiful scenery, and tried to ignore my knee.
By mile 22, I wanted so badly for the race to be over. I kept telling myself "you're almost there", and I still tried to ignore my knee. Finally, I saw it- mile 25. I mustered up every ounce of energy that I could possibly find within myself, and I ran my heart out for that last 1.2 miles. Finish time: 5:13:19. Not what I was originally on target for, but much better than the previous year. My overall experience: HUGE difference from the year before.
St. George Marathon 2009
Here I am, four years after I first began my journey toward my first marathon-and still, no surgery. I continue to get stronger and healthier, and my races get better and better. I have three goals for every race: 1-Finish. 2-Don't finish last. 3-Improve on my time every time.
I am happy to say that I accomplish these goals every race. People told me in the beginning that "Once you run a marathon, you become addicted." I thought they were crazy. Who in their right mind would want to continually run 26.2 miles for fun? But now, I realize: It's not the 26.2 miles you get addicted to, it's the sense of accomplishment and the endorphin rush, that's addicting. It doesn't matter if you run 3 miles, or 50. In the end, you walk away feeling like you have conquered something amazing, and you have. That is what keeps you going back for more. Well, that, and the way you look and feel. Your overall health is another addiction that comes with the territory.
My journey is not over-there is always another adventure around the corner. However, yours may just be beginning. What is holding you back? You don't have to go run a marathon, or even a 5K-but, there has to be something out there that will get you started on the path to a healthier and happier you.
Set your doubt, fears and old habits aside, and get out there and get moving! Enjoy life in a way you never have before, and let the doors open to new experiences. You'll be glad you did.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
My First Marathon
**Warning-this is a long story, so take a seat and relax.
I will never forget the day the "seed" to run a marathon was planted in my head. It was in June 2005, one month after I had given birth to my youngest child. My friend Angie had moved in next door to me a few months prior, and within a few weeks after Alex was born, she and I began to run together in the mornings.
Within a month after we started running, Angie suggested that we run a marathon together. HA! I just laughed. I was a sprinter, not a distance runner. Her comeback: "That was in high school, and you're not in high school anymore." I didn't say another word. Although I would dodge the subject whenever she would bring it up, the thought was growing in the back of my mind, along with doubt.
And then, in June 2007, I met Holly. A group of us were on vacation in The Bahamas when I was officially introduced to her. We hit it off instantly. She was a runner; I was a runner. We both brought our running clothes on our trip, and so we ran together each morning. We were half way through our run on the first day, when she asked me if I had thought of running a marathon. I explained to her that I had a friend that was trying to talk me into it, but it wasn't going to happen. Then, she explained that she was training for her first marathon that October-the St. George Marathon. Well, over the course of the week, she continued to talk to me about running a marathon together and how fun it would be. Although I came up with all sorts of excuses, that seed was beginning to grow into something more. Still, I politely declined the invitation.
Not more than two weeks after returning from that trip, I had come to the decision that I was going to run my first-and only, marathon. Running a marathon has never been a dream of mine, nor was it on my "bucket list", yet I had two friends that believed that I could and should do it, and from that I found the desire. Soon, the desire turned into a challenge (and I can't resist a good challenge). I was used to running 1-2 miles a day, so I didn't think that stretching it to 3 would be a big deal. Right..........
I soon found that training for a marathon took more than just running. This was the point in my life when I realized that most things are 2/3 mental/emotional and 1/3 physical. Once I figured that out, the rest started to fall into place.
Three months into our training, Angie announced that she was pregnant and would not be running the marathon with me. "Ok", I thought. This is a bummer, but Holly and I can still do this. The thing that got tough was that Holly didn't live by me, so that meant that the bulk of my training would be done alone. "Not a problem", I thought. I can do this.
January 2008: I ran my first 5K in St. George. I was excited and yet nervous at the same time. This was my first race since high school, and it was my first race ever that was longer than 200m. Holly and I took our families down for the weekend, and we ran together. Ok, I basically ate her dust-she was so fast! She was amazing. Through the entire race, I kept thinking "One day, I will be as fast as her".
I finished the race with a time of 31:22.4...........it definitely wasn't the fastest time that day, but I felt pretty good about it. I DID IT! I ran my first distance race, and I knew I was ready to tackle the next one.
So, I signed up for the Hurricane Half Marathon that May. I called my friend Holly to tell her to sign up for it, and instead she told me that she was pregnant and would not be running the marathon with me. For a moment, my mind went blank. Then, she said something that refueled my desire: "Brandy, it's ok- you can quit too. We talked you into it, and now that we aren't doing it, you don't have to." Right then, I said "No way. I have already put too much time and effort into this, so I am seeing it through." And so I continued to train for my marathon-alone. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise: it renewed my determination, it gave me a new sense of inner strength that I never knew I had, and it unleashed a new kind of passion in me for running. However, this experience also showed me my weaknesses-physically and mentally; and I have had to learn how to overcome those weaknesses.
Fast forward to October 2008. I just have to say, I love St. George-usually. I love how warm it is, I love the area. I packed ready for typical St. George weather-but, that weekend turned out to be anything BUT typical. Waking up at 3:00am that Saturday morning, I quickly found that I was unprepared (in more ways than one) for what lie ahead. First, it was raining-hard. Second, there were South winds, Third, it was cold. I should have taken those as signs to just stay in bed, but no. And, I am not the only one this affected: even those who run the Boston Marathon had a difficult time with this race that day. I like to remember that because it makes me feel a little better knowing it wasn't just me. :)
I proceeded to get ready, and at 4:30am I was boarding the bus to head up the canyon. The whole ride up, I tried to stay positive. As I got off the bus and saw 7000 people standing with me in the rain, I knew I wasn't the only crazy one-I also thought "If they can do this, then so can I."
Jumping ahead: The race started, and for the first 5 miles I thought "I am doing well. I am actually ahead of my training time, and I feel good." Hopefully it stays this way. By mile 10, it was still raining, windy, and cold-and I could no longer feel my fingers and toes. I still kept going, although I had begun to slow down. Then it happened on mile 14: all at once my knee and my ipod gave out. I wanted to just sit on the side of the road and cry. The weather and the marathon had gotten the best of me. I was cold and I was in a lot of pain. I had also noticed that it was around this time that a lot of other runners were boarding the vans to take them back to the finish line. "Just get in, it's ok. You did your best, and no one will fault you for quitting." That thought ran through my mind several times throughout the race. But then, my kids went through my mind and I knew I couldn't give up, no matter how much I wanted to. I have always told them that quitting is not an option. "You do your best, and when you start something you see it through to the finish." So, I continued on.
To sum it up: I was miserable. By mile 21, the rain had finally stopped and the wind was dying down. My hands began to thaw. But, my music was gone and I was still left with my thoughts and my injured leg.
As I crossed the finish line, I wanted to cry, both tears of relief and tears of joy-I DID IT! I finished the marathon, and although it wasn't pretty, I did it. As a matter of fact, it was downright ugly. I finished in 5:58:11.
I will never forget the day the "seed" to run a marathon was planted in my head. It was in June 2005, one month after I had given birth to my youngest child. My friend Angie had moved in next door to me a few months prior, and within a few weeks after Alex was born, she and I began to run together in the mornings.
Within a month after we started running, Angie suggested that we run a marathon together. HA! I just laughed. I was a sprinter, not a distance runner. Her comeback: "That was in high school, and you're not in high school anymore." I didn't say another word. Although I would dodge the subject whenever she would bring it up, the thought was growing in the back of my mind, along with doubt.
And then, in June 2007, I met Holly. A group of us were on vacation in The Bahamas when I was officially introduced to her. We hit it off instantly. She was a runner; I was a runner. We both brought our running clothes on our trip, and so we ran together each morning. We were half way through our run on the first day, when she asked me if I had thought of running a marathon. I explained to her that I had a friend that was trying to talk me into it, but it wasn't going to happen. Then, she explained that she was training for her first marathon that October-the St. George Marathon. Well, over the course of the week, she continued to talk to me about running a marathon together and how fun it would be. Although I came up with all sorts of excuses, that seed was beginning to grow into something more. Still, I politely declined the invitation.
Not more than two weeks after returning from that trip, I had come to the decision that I was going to run my first-and only, marathon. Running a marathon has never been a dream of mine, nor was it on my "bucket list", yet I had two friends that believed that I could and should do it, and from that I found the desire. Soon, the desire turned into a challenge (and I can't resist a good challenge). I was used to running 1-2 miles a day, so I didn't think that stretching it to 3 would be a big deal. Right..........
I soon found that training for a marathon took more than just running. This was the point in my life when I realized that most things are 2/3 mental/emotional and 1/3 physical. Once I figured that out, the rest started to fall into place.
Three months into our training, Angie announced that she was pregnant and would not be running the marathon with me. "Ok", I thought. This is a bummer, but Holly and I can still do this. The thing that got tough was that Holly didn't live by me, so that meant that the bulk of my training would be done alone. "Not a problem", I thought. I can do this.
January 2008: I ran my first 5K in St. George. I was excited and yet nervous at the same time. This was my first race since high school, and it was my first race ever that was longer than 200m. Holly and I took our families down for the weekend, and we ran together. Ok, I basically ate her dust-she was so fast! She was amazing. Through the entire race, I kept thinking "One day, I will be as fast as her".
I finished the race with a time of 31:22.4...........it definitely wasn't the fastest time that day, but I felt pretty good about it. I DID IT! I ran my first distance race, and I knew I was ready to tackle the next one.
So, I signed up for the Hurricane Half Marathon that May. I called my friend Holly to tell her to sign up for it, and instead she told me that she was pregnant and would not be running the marathon with me. For a moment, my mind went blank. Then, she said something that refueled my desire: "Brandy, it's ok- you can quit too. We talked you into it, and now that we aren't doing it, you don't have to." Right then, I said "No way. I have already put too much time and effort into this, so I am seeing it through." And so I continued to train for my marathon-alone. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise: it renewed my determination, it gave me a new sense of inner strength that I never knew I had, and it unleashed a new kind of passion in me for running. However, this experience also showed me my weaknesses-physically and mentally; and I have had to learn how to overcome those weaknesses.
Fast forward to October 2008. I just have to say, I love St. George-usually. I love how warm it is, I love the area. I packed ready for typical St. George weather-but, that weekend turned out to be anything BUT typical. Waking up at 3:00am that Saturday morning, I quickly found that I was unprepared (in more ways than one) for what lie ahead. First, it was raining-hard. Second, there were South winds, Third, it was cold. I should have taken those as signs to just stay in bed, but no. And, I am not the only one this affected: even those who run the Boston Marathon had a difficult time with this race that day. I like to remember that because it makes me feel a little better knowing it wasn't just me. :)
I proceeded to get ready, and at 4:30am I was boarding the bus to head up the canyon. The whole ride up, I tried to stay positive. As I got off the bus and saw 7000 people standing with me in the rain, I knew I wasn't the only crazy one-I also thought "If they can do this, then so can I."
Jumping ahead: The race started, and for the first 5 miles I thought "I am doing well. I am actually ahead of my training time, and I feel good." Hopefully it stays this way. By mile 10, it was still raining, windy, and cold-and I could no longer feel my fingers and toes. I still kept going, although I had begun to slow down. Then it happened on mile 14: all at once my knee and my ipod gave out. I wanted to just sit on the side of the road and cry. The weather and the marathon had gotten the best of me. I was cold and I was in a lot of pain. I had also noticed that it was around this time that a lot of other runners were boarding the vans to take them back to the finish line. "Just get in, it's ok. You did your best, and no one will fault you for quitting." That thought ran through my mind several times throughout the race. But then, my kids went through my mind and I knew I couldn't give up, no matter how much I wanted to. I have always told them that quitting is not an option. "You do your best, and when you start something you see it through to the finish." So, I continued on.
To sum it up: I was miserable. By mile 21, the rain had finally stopped and the wind was dying down. My hands began to thaw. But, my music was gone and I was still left with my thoughts and my injured leg.
As I crossed the finish line, I wanted to cry, both tears of relief and tears of joy-I DID IT! I finished the marathon, and although it wasn't pretty, I did it. As a matter of fact, it was downright ugly. I finished in 5:58:11.
Crossing the finish line at St. George Marathon
My husband told me afterward, that he had no idea I was injured until I stopped running. When I lifted up my capris, his eyes about popped out of his head. I wish we had a picture- my right knee was about the size of a grapefruit. I couldn't bend it for a week, and it was another month before I could run again. The doctor told me I would have to have surgery, which meant I would most likely never be able to run the same again. However, within an hour after the marathon, I announced I was going to run again the following year. "It can't get any worse, it can only get better."
*stay tuned for more.............
Saturday, May 14, 2011
GOTR (Girls On The Run)
We (the race directors of the Pink Series) took part in a 5K today that was a lot of fun, and for a very good cause. For those of you who haven't heard of Girls On The Run, they are a nationwide non-profit program for girls in third-fifth grades. The Salt Lake Program began in 2007 and currently has 300 girls participating. This program helps girls learn how to stay true to themselves, have stronger morals and standards, and to "live free from social stereotypes". This program teaches girls how to develop a strong self esteem and a positive image of themselves through a fun and healthy channel-running. People sign up as mentors and coaches, and these wonderful people all joined together with the girls this morning to take part in the 5K.
Pink Series Race Directors
Tanya, Andrea, Jess, Me
Our Running Buddies from GOTR
We were "running buddies" with some of the girls in the program, and it was a great experience. Girls from all over the valley can join the program, but many that do are usually from lower-income families, and they struggle with more than a lot of others do. We were able to get to know a few of them and hear their stories, goals and dreams. It was very inspiring to be a part of this event, and I want to thank our friends at GOTR for doing such a wonderful thing for these girls, and for allowing us to be a part of today.
*For more information about GOTR, visit www.girlsontherunsaltlake.org
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Running For A Cause
Over the last few years, I have found that the only thing better than running, is running for a cause. Last Saturday, some friends and I were invited by our friends at Studio 5 to run the Susan B. Komen Race For The Cure 5K with them, in Salt Lake. It was such a sight: 20,000 people filled the streets of downtown, and there were thousands more lined up in support of those running and walking.
Many people wore the names of those close to them that have been victims or survivors of breast cancer, and many walked and ran as survivors themselves. I was overwhelmed with the feelings of love and admiration for all of those people-most of whom I've never met. People from all over the country, from all walks of life. Yet, there we all were, united in one thing-support in finding a cure for cancer. If you have never been a part of a race that supports a cause, then I encourage you to do so. It is such an awesome experience.
Many people wore the names of those close to them that have been victims or survivors of breast cancer, and many walked and ran as survivors themselves. I was overwhelmed with the feelings of love and admiration for all of those people-most of whom I've never met. People from all over the country, from all walks of life. Yet, there we all were, united in one thing-support in finding a cure for cancer. If you have never been a part of a race that supports a cause, then I encourage you to do so. It is such an awesome experience.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Injury Prevention
'Tis the season for races.............and injuries. Whether you run, bike or swim, it seems that at some point people can't escape the season without an injury (or two, or three). Why is that? Well, for most people it's because they skip some important and necessary steps in their training, and they don't think about it until they are injured. For others, it's just that they don't know that they are doing something wrong; and for a select few, it's usually because they are irritating an old injury and don't know how to get past it.
Today, I am going to give you some tips on how to prevent getting new injuries as well as preventing flare-ups on old ones.
RUNNERS:
1-Shoes.Believe it or not, they make a huge difference. In this case, you truly do get what you pay for. I'm not telling you to go out and buy the most expensive pair you can find, but I am telling you not to go places like WalMart or Target, either. Your best bet is to go to a specialty running store, because the people that work at these places know what they are talking about, and they can help you find the right shoe for you. If you are in the Salt Lake area, I recommend Salt Lake Running Company. If you are anywhere in Utah, some other good places are Runner's North (in Logan), Striders (Layton), GetFit (Highland), and St. George Running Center (St. George). If you are outside of Utah, I suggest looking up a local running store near you.
2-Strength Train. To me, this is at the top of the list, along with finding the right shoes. More often than not, people forget about strength training (case-in-point, read about the mistakes I made while training for my first marathon).When I hear from runners, cyclists, and swimmers that are injured and when asked what they do for strength training, I get a "deer in the headlights" look- that tells me right away that they don't do it. If your core isn't strong, then it can't support your body well enough during the rigorous workouts/runs you put it through. If your upper body isn't strong, then it's your lower body that takes most of the abuse-which, leads to knee, hip and IT injuries, among other things. DON'T SKIP STRENGTH TRAINING. For ST exercises, check out websites such as http://www.runnersworld.com.
3- Cross Train. This pretty much goes hand-in-hand with Strength Training. To put it simply: if you do the same thing every day, you work the same muscles and you get the same results.Switching things up helps to build and strengthen muscles throughout your entire body. Take on swimming or cycling a few times a week; instead of always running the treadmill, try out the elliptical or a spinning class. This, along with strength training exercises will help make you stronger and less likely to get injured. It will also help build your endurance.
4- Roll Out. What? Yes, roll out. Let me just tell you what a great thing this is .It is a lot like a deep tissue massage (only less expensive). Rolling is beneficial in that it relieves pain and tension, it can prevent future injuries, and it can help improve your training. Since I started rolling out, my calves and IT band haven't had problems. You can roll out your glutes, calves, quads, hamstrings, IT band-pretty much anywhere that needs muscle tension relief. For further tips on how to roll out after your workout, go to http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-241-285--11556-0,00.html
5- Stretch. People tend to do one of two things when it comes to stretching: They either stretch before they're warmed up, or they forget to stretch all together. The best thing to do is to stretch after your body is warmed up (usually a good ten minute jog or warm-up on a cardio machine), or wait until after your run. The reason for this is because once your body is warmed-up, your muscles become loose and more flexible. If you stretch before your muscles are loose, you are more likely to tear something and cause a new injury, or worsen an already existing one. Believe it or not, yoga is a great way to stretch after a rigorous workout. Not only does it help restore tired muscles, but it helps prevent injury and it increases your flexibility.
CYCLISTS:
1-Helmets. Yes, this is my #1 tip for cyclists. Why? Well, if your head becomes part of the road and you're not wearing a helmet, then you most likely won't be riding again (if you know what I mean). Don't think you're too cool for a helmet; it's better to be safe than sorry. If you race, then you already know that most, if not all races require helmets. Head injuries are among the worst and hardest to recover from.
2-Bike Fit. Cyclists experience some intense injuries due to an ill-fitting bike. Go to a specialty cycling store and get properly fitted for your bike. Doing so can help prevent injuries like lower back problems, saddle sores, groin problems and hand and wrist problems. This is also something that you get what you pay for. You don't need to buy the most expensive bike, but find one that works best for you.
3-Strength Train. This is just as important for cyclists as it is for runners. If you don't have a strong core, then your body won't be able to withstand the long rides you're putting it through. If your knees and legs aren't strong, then they won't be able to support the abuse you're putting them through. Knee and lower back injuries are the most common among cyclists.
4-Cross Train. Again, this is just as important for cyclists as it is for runners. Do the same thing every day, and you will get you the same results. To improve your workouts and prevent injury, incorporate cross training exercises into your workouts.
5-Roll Out. Another important step that all athletes should do after a hard workout. Rolling out those sore and tired legs and back will help relieve muscle tension, loosen scar tissue, and help prevent further injury.
6-Stretch. Not only does stretching after a hard workout feel good, but it helps prevent injuries and increases your flexibility. As with runners, I recommend trying yoga.
7-Warm Up. If you are riding in weather colder than 60-65 degrees, then you should wear half-tights or knee warmers to keep your knees warm. Although it may be sunny, if you are riding in cooler weather without protecting your knees, then you increase your chances for injury.
SWIMMERS:
1-Lessons/Classes. If you are planning on swimming in any kind of race, it is important to know what you're doing. If you need to, take or re-take swimming lessons (that would be me), and then locate a Master's Swimming Group near you and learn how to swim competitively. You will learn techniques that can help prevent injuries and will keep you from drowning.
2- Warm Up. Taking time to warm up before jumping into the water for a rigorous workout can help prevent injuries. All it takes is about 5 minutes. Do some jumping jacks, go for a jog or do some stationary cycling.
3-Stretch. After you take a few minutes to warm up, take a few minutes to stretch. However, stretch slowly and gently, and hold each stretch for about 30-45 seconds.
4-Strength Train. Yes, strength training is just as important for swimmers as it is for runners and cyclists. Strengthening areas such as your core and upper body can help prevent such things as shoulder and back injuries.
5-Cross Train. Same thing for you as for the runners and cyclists. Doing the same thing produces the same results, and increases your chances for injury. Add running, cycling or the elliptical to your workouts.
6- Roll Out. Swimmers, if you don't roll out, you should. Just like the runners and cyclists, you will benefit from rolling out after a rigorous workout. Rolling out isn't just for the lower body; you can roll out your back and neck muscles, as well as your biceps and triceps.
**No matter what kind of workout you do, make sure you always:
1-Stay hydrated
2-Fuel up with a light, healthy meal before your workout, keep healthy energy snacks handy for your long workouts, and eat a healthy meal with protein within 30 minutes after your workout.
Today, I am going to give you some tips on how to prevent getting new injuries as well as preventing flare-ups on old ones.
RUNNERS:
1-Shoes.Believe it or not, they make a huge difference. In this case, you truly do get what you pay for. I'm not telling you to go out and buy the most expensive pair you can find, but I am telling you not to go places like WalMart or Target, either. Your best bet is to go to a specialty running store, because the people that work at these places know what they are talking about, and they can help you find the right shoe for you. If you are in the Salt Lake area, I recommend Salt Lake Running Company. If you are anywhere in Utah, some other good places are Runner's North (in Logan), Striders (Layton), GetFit (Highland), and St. George Running Center (St. George). If you are outside of Utah, I suggest looking up a local running store near you.
2-Strength Train. To me, this is at the top of the list, along with finding the right shoes. More often than not, people forget about strength training (case-in-point, read about the mistakes I made while training for my first marathon).When I hear from runners, cyclists, and swimmers that are injured and when asked what they do for strength training, I get a "deer in the headlights" look- that tells me right away that they don't do it. If your core isn't strong, then it can't support your body well enough during the rigorous workouts/runs you put it through. If your upper body isn't strong, then it's your lower body that takes most of the abuse-which, leads to knee, hip and IT injuries, among other things. DON'T SKIP STRENGTH TRAINING. For ST exercises, check out websites such as http://www.runnersworld.com.
3- Cross Train. This pretty much goes hand-in-hand with Strength Training. To put it simply: if you do the same thing every day, you work the same muscles and you get the same results.Switching things up helps to build and strengthen muscles throughout your entire body. Take on swimming or cycling a few times a week; instead of always running the treadmill, try out the elliptical or a spinning class. This, along with strength training exercises will help make you stronger and less likely to get injured. It will also help build your endurance.
4- Roll Out. What? Yes, roll out. Let me just tell you what a great thing this is .It is a lot like a deep tissue massage (only less expensive). Rolling is beneficial in that it relieves pain and tension, it can prevent future injuries, and it can help improve your training. Since I started rolling out, my calves and IT band haven't had problems. You can roll out your glutes, calves, quads, hamstrings, IT band-pretty much anywhere that needs muscle tension relief. For further tips on how to roll out after your workout, go to http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-241-285--11556-0,00.html
5- Stretch. People tend to do one of two things when it comes to stretching: They either stretch before they're warmed up, or they forget to stretch all together. The best thing to do is to stretch after your body is warmed up (usually a good ten minute jog or warm-up on a cardio machine), or wait until after your run. The reason for this is because once your body is warmed-up, your muscles become loose and more flexible. If you stretch before your muscles are loose, you are more likely to tear something and cause a new injury, or worsen an already existing one. Believe it or not, yoga is a great way to stretch after a rigorous workout. Not only does it help restore tired muscles, but it helps prevent injury and it increases your flexibility.
CYCLISTS:
1-Helmets. Yes, this is my #1 tip for cyclists. Why? Well, if your head becomes part of the road and you're not wearing a helmet, then you most likely won't be riding again (if you know what I mean). Don't think you're too cool for a helmet; it's better to be safe than sorry. If you race, then you already know that most, if not all races require helmets. Head injuries are among the worst and hardest to recover from.
2-Bike Fit. Cyclists experience some intense injuries due to an ill-fitting bike. Go to a specialty cycling store and get properly fitted for your bike. Doing so can help prevent injuries like lower back problems, saddle sores, groin problems and hand and wrist problems. This is also something that you get what you pay for. You don't need to buy the most expensive bike, but find one that works best for you.
3-Strength Train. This is just as important for cyclists as it is for runners. If you don't have a strong core, then your body won't be able to withstand the long rides you're putting it through. If your knees and legs aren't strong, then they won't be able to support the abuse you're putting them through. Knee and lower back injuries are the most common among cyclists.
4-Cross Train. Again, this is just as important for cyclists as it is for runners. Do the same thing every day, and you will get you the same results. To improve your workouts and prevent injury, incorporate cross training exercises into your workouts.
5-Roll Out. Another important step that all athletes should do after a hard workout. Rolling out those sore and tired legs and back will help relieve muscle tension, loosen scar tissue, and help prevent further injury.
6-Stretch. Not only does stretching after a hard workout feel good, but it helps prevent injuries and increases your flexibility. As with runners, I recommend trying yoga.
7-Warm Up. If you are riding in weather colder than 60-65 degrees, then you should wear half-tights or knee warmers to keep your knees warm. Although it may be sunny, if you are riding in cooler weather without protecting your knees, then you increase your chances for injury.
SWIMMERS:
1-Lessons/Classes. If you are planning on swimming in any kind of race, it is important to know what you're doing. If you need to, take or re-take swimming lessons (that would be me), and then locate a Master's Swimming Group near you and learn how to swim competitively. You will learn techniques that can help prevent injuries and will keep you from drowning.
2- Warm Up. Taking time to warm up before jumping into the water for a rigorous workout can help prevent injuries. All it takes is about 5 minutes. Do some jumping jacks, go for a jog or do some stationary cycling.
3-Stretch. After you take a few minutes to warm up, take a few minutes to stretch. However, stretch slowly and gently, and hold each stretch for about 30-45 seconds.
4-Strength Train. Yes, strength training is just as important for swimmers as it is for runners and cyclists. Strengthening areas such as your core and upper body can help prevent such things as shoulder and back injuries.
5-Cross Train. Same thing for you as for the runners and cyclists. Doing the same thing produces the same results, and increases your chances for injury. Add running, cycling or the elliptical to your workouts.
6- Roll Out. Swimmers, if you don't roll out, you should. Just like the runners and cyclists, you will benefit from rolling out after a rigorous workout. Rolling out isn't just for the lower body; you can roll out your back and neck muscles, as well as your biceps and triceps.
**No matter what kind of workout you do, make sure you always:
1-Stay hydrated
2-Fuel up with a light, healthy meal before your workout, keep healthy energy snacks handy for your long workouts, and eat a healthy meal with protein within 30 minutes after your workout.
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