Recovery is a drag

It's been a rough couple days since the marathon. Yes I finished! Race recap to come soon, I promise.  I arrived home from Little Rock exhausted from travel. How does sitting in a car for 9 hours tire you out so much... especially when I didn't even drive one mile.

The 26.2 run took more of a toll on my body than initially planned. My muscles have been pretty sore for the past three days - particularly my quads (why hello Little Rock hills).  In fact, I had a bit of a delayed soreness that my friend Kelli always speak of... the worst of pain hitting not the next day, but two days after a hard workout. I can't remember a time I was quite this sore following a race... and the weird thing is I didn't even try to "push it" during the Little Rock Marathon. It definitely gives me a lot to think about in the 52 days left before Eugene.

I planned to get out for an easy run last night with my Sole Sisters, but a couple catastrophes later, it didn't happen. Boo. I went to bed frustrated and grumpy... three days no running... AH!  So I set my alarm for 5am this morning. It's been awhile since I've done a sunrise run.  It was really tough dragging my butt out of a warm cozy bed into 25 degree cold.  I literally rolled out and threw on the nearest sweatshirt for a couple easy miles. Wake up my legs... and BREATHE.  3.5 miles later, I felt alive and fabulous. Even after years of running, I am occasionally reminded of how powerful a RUN can be in turning the tide of life.

I've been busting butt the past two days to get all the #JellyBean virtual race medals packed and shipped out... Just about everything has left the building, so watch your mailboxes! Remember, even if you didn't order a medal, you can still participate in the #JellyBean virtual race to be entered into the grand prize drawing. Always FREE participation here... My goal in hosting virtual races the past few years has always been just to encourage people to run.

Have a great day!

Pre-Marathon Events

We made the 9 hour drive to Arkansas and arrived in Little Rock on Friday afternoon. After a stop for lunch, we went straight to the race expo at the Statehouse Convention Center. I love a good expo (especially sans kids when I have the freedom to shop and talk), and Little Rock did not disappoint. We spent a good couple hours there wandering booths and talking with vendors.

The theme for this year's Little Rock Marathon is "Lucky," playing off the 3-3-13 date, tying in the lucky horseshoe and thus a western vibe. The expo had neat displays to promote the theme, as well as a fabulous assortment of race clothing.

Even the race bib looks like a western bandana...

As a marketing person myself, I love it when events go the extra mile with all the little details. Kudos to the Little Rock CIC (Chicks in Charge).

While we wandered around the expo, I found the KT Tape guys at the Fleet Feet booth. After discussing my injury, they offered to tape up my ankle for the race. I'm not 100%, but still have great hopes of making it the full 26.2. Cross your fingers for me please!

After the expo, we started to drive the course. Some of the streets were one-ways and city traffic made it tiresome and long. By mile 13, we gave up and headed back to the hotel. I was tired and needed a mental rest before dinner. Back at the hotel, I bumped into Penny aka Pink Hat Runner. I've gotten to know her through blogging, so it was great to finally meet her in person.

Friday evening, we strolled Little Rock's downtown area called the River Market, grabbed dinner at the Flying Fish, and scouted out the starting line. Cool signs at the start... Again, I love the creativity of this event.

This morning, we were up early for the kickoff of marathon weekend. (There are FIVE different events here... Saturday: 5K, Kids Race;  Sunday: 10K, Half and Full Marathon.)  My hubby was running in the 5K. It was pretty darn chilly (and windy) in Little Rock this morning, so we huddled in the lobby of a nearby hotel until the start.

It felt weird to be at a race and not be a runner. But every time I take the role of cheerleader, I get to experience the race in a whole new way. It was fun to watch the lead runners blaze past just as it was to see the fun costumes and outfits on runners. I was touched today by the people in the race, their comraderie, and their families on the sidelines.  As a runner myself, I could see so much expression and feeling in their faces as they came down the finishing stretch. It made me really proud to be a part of the runner community... and equally excited for the marathon on Sunday.

My hubby finished his 5K... his first run since last November. Kiddingly, he prides himself on the Couch-to-5K plan - directly from the couch to the race course, with nothing in-between. He liked today's race and felt invigorated - even mentioned that perhaps he should "start running again". Umm, yeah.

I also ran into Endorphin Dude...

The forecast for Sunday's Little Rock Marathon is cooler than I expected, but I packed well. Not sure why, but I have felt freezing ever since we got here. Starting time temp will be low 30's, but by time I finish, it will be near 50 degrees. Thankfully, I'll have my hubby on the course to throw clothing at!

I'll be in this green shirt... so if you see me, please come say HELLO!

My goal for this race is the same as always... run a strong training run. Don't push it. This is simply a warm up for Eugene, not intended to break any time goals. That being said, it's hard as a runner to not put some kind of "goal" on a marathon. I hope to finish between 4:30-4:45, but it will all depend on how the ankle holds up.

NET-NET... 

I just want to finish - healthy.

And bring home that giant BLING that Little Rock is so well known for!

Now it's time for some carbs in the form of pizza! MMMM!

FlipBelt Review & Giveaway

I've been waiting for weather to warm up a little to test out a new product I recently received... the FlipBelt.  As a long distance runner, there is always a handful of stuff to carry when I'm out on my feet for hours at a time.  I'm not a big fan of fanny packs, fuel belts or anything that wraps around my waist. I typically carry a handheld water bottle, and love winter running if not for the sole purpose of wearing a vest with lots of pockets to carry "my stuff".  But once that outer layer comes off, I'm a little strapped on where to store the goodies.  (Note: Between the girls is not ideal... GU wrappers do some nasty chafing!)  With that said, I was intrigued by the FlipBelt for its pure simplicity.

Before Sunday's long run, I loaded up the FlipBelt with the essentials... car key, energy packet, gum, cash and my iPhone. It all slid nicely into the fabric belt through a slit down the middle. I stepped into the FlipBelt and let it rest gently on my hips.

I was impressed on how well it blended into my fat curves. With my outer shirt pulled overtop, you could barely notice any extra bulge (like we need any, right?!).  Of course, in the summer months, the FlipBelt will be a nice color splash to my favorite ninja (all black) outfit.

How did it perform on the RUN?
Over the course of a half marathon (13.1 miles), the FlipBelt worked well. In my mind, the comfortability factor is #1 plus with this product. As someone who is normally annoyed with things around my waist, I forgot the FlipBelt was even there during my run.

The iPhone was a bit heavy, so I turned the FlipBelt around within the first mile... so that the items were on my back rather than my tummy. I should have went a size smaller on the belt (sizing chart here). All my items stayed secure in the FlipBelt, but if it's a concern, you may also flip the belt inward to seal the openings against your body. I love the versatility of this product.

Through the miles, the FlipBelt found final resting place around my waist. Again, a smaller size probably would have kept it tighter down on my hips. I reached in several times to use my phone and take an energy gel. I found no problems with its use. While it had slipped up to my waist, I was impressed that the FlipBelt didn't end up all scrunched up. It was visually pleasing even after 2+ hours of running. That matters in a race... hello, finish line photos!?

Conclusion: Would I use it again? 
Yes! I may even order another color. The FlipBelt retails for $24.99.

WIN IT TO TRY IT!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway below to enter to WIN a FlipBelt for yourself.

Contest ends March 8, 2013.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
For purposes of this review and giveaway, the FlipBelt was supplied to me free of charge, but opinions expressed are completely 100% Jess.

Ankle Cuffs

Only a fellow runner will understand the frustration, anxiety and pure panic that comes with an injury on race week.  Not just any race, a MARATHON.  I have no idea what I did, but I'm officially off-the-charts with worry right now.

I had a slight soreness on the outside of my foot this past weekend, nothing worth mentioning but enough that I gave it some massage and ice. My long run on Sunday didn't improve the situation I'm quite sure. With just a tweek of soreness, I did a short recovery run on Monday morning... and that's when it became a problem. As the day grew on, the soreness grew into an irritating pain. I've been wobbling around ever since.

My very professional Google research has determined it to be a strain in the peroneal tendon, which wraps around the underside of your ankle bone (on the outer side).  I've never heard of it before, but let me tell you this... you need it for running and walking.

I'm confident to say that with rest/ice as the (again very professional) Google research says, it will be fine... Although maybe not in time for Sunday's Little Rock Marathon. It could be a glorious day (weather looks super awesome!)... or an incredibly painful one for me.  I'm reaching for straws right now (I have 4 days!).  My mom mentioned soaking it in Epsom Salt. Have you ever heard of the healing power of magnesium sulfate? I'm going to give it a try, along with continued rest and ice... and then somehow try to stay sane. Not running this week is absolutely driving me CRAZY.  

So send those healing prayers my way please...

Hangover Run

I slept in this morning, which is very rare for this early bird runner. I awoke to the sweet chatter of my little girls downstairs. They are finally at the age where they don't announce their presence the minute they roll out of bed. Sweetness. We had a late evening (for me) with some friends last night. There was food, wine, beer and lots of laughs between friends. It was just what we needed after a long hard week. My husband has been working non-stop in prep for an inspection at the base (military). His busy work schedule meant no break from mom-duty for me, totally messing with my run time a.k.a. sanity refresher.

I knew I had to nail my long run today. It would be my last quality run before Little Rock Marathon (next Sunday!). So one would think I'd eat right, hydrate and get to bed early... Nope. Instead, I skipped the "dinner" portion and went straight to wine and then beer. For the old Jess that was pretty common, but not these days. I awoke feeling pretty crappy. I tried a last minute hydration effort this morning, but as I dressed to run, I still felt a little woozy. It was a perfect day outside to run... mild winter temps in the high 30's, sunshine and very little wind. Plus I had babysitter lined up and ready. It was time to suck it up.

I dropped the kids off at my in-laws house and decided to just run from there. I needed new scenery to take my mind off how my body felt. There is a wildlife park near their house, so I snuck in there (closed for winter). It was so peaceful down the road, through the woods and literally amongst the deer. I lost count after 30. As the deer were running and jumping across the road in front of me, I suddenly remembered the photos and reports lately of cougar sightings. The thought "I'm the slowest thing out here" crossed my mind... and I decided 2 miles of wilderness was enough.

I continued to wind through the nearby neighborhoods. The only problem with an unknown route is unforeseen elevation.  Holy smokes, it was nonstop rolling hills, but I held onto my sub-10 pace nicely. The goal for today's 13 was a 9:58 average pace. As mere punishment for last night's drinks, I was determined to hold myself to the plan.

The second subdivision was much nicer... quite frankly, some houses could classify as small mansions. With such nice weather, there were lots of families outside - playing basketball, riding bikes or tinkering in the garage. It was a gorgeous day to be out running. I was so glad I didn't skip it. By time the miles were done, I felt renewed again... and thirsty!

13.1 miles in 2:07:16  (9:42 pace)
Most importantly, I was pleased with how consistent I kept the miles...
9:40, 9:40, 9:57, 9:54, 9:46, 9:40, 9:31, 9:52, 9:51, 9:33, 9:43, 9:34, 9:38

Not too shabby. I'll take that for a hangover run anyday!

Friday Five

ONE

This week I experienced a huge "runner's high" moment. Back in January when I restarted training, I had 4x800 intervals on the plan. I was suppose to run them in 3:58 (7:56 pace) and utterly failed. I couldn't even complete one at that pace!! It was so demoralizing to see how much speed I had lost over the holidays. Well... this past Wednesday was another story. I nailed 6x800 intervals, each at 3:58 or less. It was hard; it royally kicked my ars... but I did it! My hands were trembling and I could hardly stand straight after those 6 miles... but I was smiling ear to ear. THIS is why we train.

I'm following the 4:15 plan from the Run Less Run Faster book on pages 250-251. I'll be tweeking the plan slightly next week to accommodate for the Little Rock Marathon, which I will be running as a training run (for big fat bling!). My ultimate 4:15 goal is for Eugene Marathon on April 28.

TWO
Have you been following the story on Oscar Pistorius? He's the famous "Blade Runner" from South Africa that made great sensational media during this year's Olympics for overcoming adversity (no legs!). Now he stands accused of murdering his girlfriend. It's really a bizarre story. Pistorius says he shot four times through his locked bathroom door (killing her on the toilet) because he thought an intruder entered through his bathroom window. Witnesses say there was yelling and arguing for an hour before it happened. Hmmm, what do you think?  Suspicious, and yet the judge granted him bail this morning.

THREE
This year's Jelly Bean virtual race is gonna be HUGE! Reminder: Today (Fri, 2/22) is the cutoff for ordering finisher's medals. The #JellyBean E-Newsletter went out yesterday - Be sure to check it out HERE to answer any questions. Thanks!

FOUR
The third and final round of the RUN YOUR A$$ OFF weight loss challenge starts this Monday, Feb. 25.  Only $10 to bet on yourself that you can lose 4% of your weight in four weeks. Lose Weight. Have Fun. Earn Money!  Come on... join in and get yourself in prime racing shape for spring!  All the details here.


FIVE
What could be better than a day with fellow female runners? If you're in the Midwest, check it out...

Run Like A Diva Retreat

Madison, Wis

Sunday, May 5

A full day of runner heaven... group runs, educational sessions with local experts, Zumba, yoga and bootcamp classes, bra fittings, fashion show, mini expo, lunch, cupcake party, swag bags, prizes... and the keynote speaker is ME!!  Oh-my goodness, YES!!  So much fun in one of my favorite cities.  Currently, Running Diva Mom is having a giveaway contest to win a FREE Entry for the retreat  HERE.  Head over and get entered to win!

Hot Tracks: Saucony #Virrata

There's nothing I love more than a new pair of shoes... especially when it's RUNNING shoes. So I was elated when this sassy pair arrived at my doorstep...

Saucony Virrata 2013

1st Impression
I was immediately in love with the color combination... black, hot pink and neon green! Need I say more... Awesome color design. But wait, there are more options...

If these shoes wear the miles well, it should come as no surprise that I'll be picking up those purple/white ones. I love me some purple!

2nd Impression
As I lifted them out of the box, I exclaimed out loud, "Holy cow! These are super light!" Over the past year, I have slowly been decreasing the weight of my shoes. My old Asics Kayanos weigh nearly 12 oz. and feel heavy, almost clumsy, on my feet now. The new Saucony Virrata are half that... only 6.0 ounces!!  Men's are 6.5 oz.

3rd Impression
Now for the important part - trying them on. I'm always slightly nervous because I already like the color and specs... pleeeeese let them fit! I typically wear a size 9 in Saucony and the Virrata's fit fine. I probably could have gone 9.5. If I was in a store, there is no doubt that the sales rep would have talked me up a half size.

As I slipped the shoes on, the first thing I noticed was the light mesh that makes up the upper part of the shoes. It was extremely thin and flimsy, but fit around my foot like a glove. I instantly thought, "I'm going to need a thicker pair of socks for winter runs... but these will be great for the hot summer runs."  Not only is the mesh highly breathable, but the collar lining also has superior moisture wicking properties. I really liked how easy and unconstrained the Virrata felt around my foot. They are classified in the "Natural" category.

I was in the middle of making dinner when the Virratas arrived, so I left them on for the next hour around the house. Without even reading the "spec sheet", it was obvious these were a 0 drop shoe, meaning there is no lift under the heel. This is typical of minimalist shoes. When you run, it practically forces you into proper form - landing on your midfoot rather than heel striking.

The bottom sole is not thin, and yet it's lightweight. After some later research, I discovered Saucony used a high abbrasion EVA foam for the bottom sole, rather than rubber like most shoes. The foam provides great cushioning (which I need) while keeping the shoe feather-light. My exact words to my hubby was it felt "bouncy".

On The Run

So first impressions were good. I liked how the Virratas felt. I couldn't wait to take them for a run! Sunday evening rolled around and I headed out the door in my fancy new shoes. {read about the run here}  I knew I'd like the lightweight and instantly felt like there was nothing on my feet. True to my initial thoughts, the winter wind cut right through the mesh and I felt the cold (but never noticed it again once I got past the warmup mile).  I ended up going 7 miles on that first run... unintentional! When breaking in new shoes, you should typically stick to shorter runs (3-4 miles). But I was in a zone on Sunday and honestly, just forgot I had new shoes on. They were that comfortable. My ending pace was rather impressive too - fast for me. Later that evening, I felt a little soreness in my arch. The Virratas have a bit more arch support than I'm used to. I rolled out my arches on a food can and was fine the next morning. If you're new to landing on your midfoot, you may also experience some calf strain. But in time, your calves will gain strength as you transition away from heel-striking. You'll also save your knees.

Yesterday, I gave the Virratas another go... on the treadmill. My feet always feel heavy and slow on the treadmill. Not sure if it was the shoes or Eminem pumping through the speakers, but I had a hard time keeping my "easy" run easy. My feet again felt light and I wanted to run fast(er).

The shoes even have reflective details on the shoelace holes, which showed its power when my camera flash was on.

My Conclusion
The Saucony Virratas are a great shoe to begin a journey towards natural runing. They are lightweight and feel easy breezy comfortable on the feet. Unlike other minimalist shoes, they offer substantial cushioning for those who need it. The bottom has nice traction that I found helpful running through gravel spots. I am anxious to see how the Virratas wear through heavy mileage. Can I push them past the 250 mile mark?  With a price tag of $90, they are certainly worth a try.


*Disclaimer: I received these Saucony shoes as a complimentary media sample as a FitFluential Ambassador. However, written opinions are all JESS.

Revival Run

Busy weeks have a way of turning bad for me. Last week was one of them. I pride myself as a multi-tasker, but eventually the stress of "being everywhere, pleasing everyone" can send me in a tailspin.  While I'm sort of a busy-bee, I also need my down-time to reload.... time for my body, but more importantly, my mind to relax and prioritize.

I was feeling really down over the weekend. My interval run got skipped during the week and my long run didn't happen. I managed to get in some quality miles, but certainly not what the plan called for. It's frustrating and I stewed over it all weekend. This is when running addiction becomes unhealthy for me. I easily turn to crap food to make me feel better, which in fact, does just the opposite. I'm on edge and short with my family. I was not pleasant to be around and my motivation was in the toilet.

By Sunday evening, I was bursting at the seams. Since I had now finished all the chocolate from my kids' valentine boxes, there was only one choice now... RUN to the store for more. I quickly laced up and stepped out the door before my mind could make another excuse. It was chilly (mostly because of the wind), but the bright sun was in its last hour.  I tried to keep the pace easy, but built-up stress makes that hard to do. My heart takes over and I have a way of pounding everything out onto the pavement. Without even a glance at the watch, I could feel the demanding pace, but my legs seemed to be on autopilot. I marched up the hills and kept turning down streets for more. I heard the beeps telling me miles were done, and knew this run was turning into more than the "easy 3" I told myself when I left the house.

The longer I ran, the higher my energy level soared.
The more labored my breathing, the more I could breathe again.
Just when I felt normal again, I turned the corner and the magnificent sunset took my breath away...

I literally stopped in my tracks. It was a like a slap in the face... a "wake the eff up and look at this glorious life" moment. Here I was feeling all depressed over what?!
Life is healthy.
Life is good.
I am okay.
The purpose of this run was complete.
I turned towards home and returned a new woman.

Sometimes revival can be just that simple for me... run until I reach the AH-HA moment. It may take a week for it to happen, but when it does, everything just falls back together.

•  •  •

LAST WEEK...

Not as bad as my mind was playing it out... I did "work" every day. 

5 Spinning classes, 4 Runs, 3 Core workouts

YTD Run Miles: 207

THIS WEEK'S PLAN...
Mon - Run Easy 3, Spinning, Core class
Tues - Spinning, Core class
Wed - Run Intervals: 6x800
Thurs - Swim
Fri - Run Tempo 8
Sat - Spinning
Sun - Run Long - 13 (sweet taper!)

Valentines FIT COUPLES #3

In celebration of Valentine's Day, I am featuring several of my favorite FIT COUPLES... and giving you the opportunity to share your fitness love story as well!  I applaud those who are determined to live healthy and be a role model for their children and communities.  Keep Rockin' the Fit Life!

If you missed the previous FIT COUPLES, read their stories here:  

#1  Joe & Stephanie here

#2   TJ & Stephanie here

Introducing FIT COUPLE #3:

The multi-tasking mommy Kelli and her Crossfitter

Several years ago, we found ourselves at a crossroads. Mike had high blood pressure and Kelli, a stay-home mom, found herself sluggish, uncomfortable and missing her personal confidence. Making changes to our diet and family activities, together we lost over 75 pounds! 

Mike was introduced to Crossfit and was instantly hooked. Switching to the Paleo diet, old food cravings were replaced by a desire to find out what his body was capable of, now with the extra weight gone. Kelli started running with the Sole Sisters and taking classes at the local gym. Just recently, she has started teaching fitness classes and looks forward to getting certified to do even more instruction. 

It’s amazing how energetic and confident I feel when I fuel my body properly and use a variety of exercise in my life. I’ve developed an incredible amount of fitness friends, whom add to my healthy lifestyle.  It is never too late to start taking care of your body, mind and soul with exercise, diet and most importantly, a positive attitude!  We both support each other in our different fitness interests. He loves Crossfit; I love my fitness classes. Different choices, but somehow we make sure each gets their “gym time” several times a week. 

We both feel is absolutely essential to expose our daughters and involve them in exercise and proper nutrition. Mike does weekly Crossfit workouts with our 5 year old in our living room.  Her favorites are the bear crawls, the inchworm, and burpees.  Kelli introduces activities like swimming, yoga and zumba to both girls by having special “mommy-daughter fitness time” each week. We want to ensure our children prioritize their health and know that exercise is fun!  Is it time consuming? Yes. It adds even more chaos to already hectic schedules, but we choose to make the time for our family - and have a blast while we are doing it! We realize that we have two little girls watching our every move, and we are proud of what we are teaching them.  ~Mike and Kelli

SAVE 10% OFF entire order with code FITCOUPLES

www.MilestonesSportsJewelry.com

Valentines FIT COUPLES #2

In celebration of Valentine's Day, I am featuring several of my favorite FIT COUPLES... and giving you the opportunity to share your fitness love story as well!  I applaud those who are determined to live healthy and be a role model for their children and communities.  Keep Rockin' the Fit Life!

If you missed yesterday's FIT COUPLE #1 Joe & Stephanie, read their story here.

Introducing FIT COUPLE #2: 
The powerful Crossfit family of TJ & Stephanie...

When it comes to fitness, most of our friends know us as ‘CrossFitters’… because well, that’s about all we do and talk about. We had both been athletes since we were kids and were looking for something new apart from the “regular gym” where I went to classes and he did free weights. We wanted to do something together – and I didn’t want our girls stuck in childcare with someone I didn’t know and where I couldn’t see them. In the spring of 2012, we found CrossFit. It was what we were both looking for – new challenges, weight lifting, cardio, you name it! At the time, our gym didn’t have a “kids area”… but we brought them anyway. It didn’t take long for other members to accept them as “one of us”.  The CrossFit culture is like a second family.

Having two small children can easily hinder fitness in a relationship. TJ and I, however have never let having kids “hold us back” from us doing the things we want to do… we instead make it a family activity and include everyone. I believe it is important, not only to our relationship, but to our relationship with our kids to be positive role models. Our kids see us being happy, getting better at things through struggle and hard work and being healthy and active. In turn, they want to do the same things. They learn not to give up, and that it takes hard work sometimes, but it’s worth it.

Since we aren’t as lucky as some with getting time for ourselves and “date nights”… we created our own “dates” working out at CrossFit. TJ and I both spent the day looking forward to getting to work out with each other that afternoon. I believe it’s brought us closer as a couple. At the gym, like in a relationship, we’ve seen each other struggle, persevere and succeed through hard work and determination. We’ve been there to help each other through when we think we can’t do it anymore… we’ve been each other’s #1 fan. We are doing something together that keeps us healthy and able to tackle anything both in and out of the gym. We will both be in the CrossFit Open this year… and while we most likely won’t make it to Regionals, we’re excited to see how far we’ve come in our one short year of CrossFit.    ~TJ and Stephanie

SAVE 10% OFF entire order with code FITCOUPLES

at www.MilestonesSportsJewelry.com