I've had quite a few people ask me lately about my gear for running/triathlons so I figured here would be the best place to throw together some of my favorites..
Running:
-good shoes! I can't stress this enough, go to a specialty running store and have them help you find the perfect fit for your foot/gait...trust me, it will be worth the extra $$$
-a headband that ACTUALLY holds your hair and won't fall off or slide...I've tried tons of these, every company claims that they have the miracle product, but truth be told my absolute favorite has to be this velvet headband from Suddora. It doesn't give you a headache and it really does stay on (trial tested by myself on various runs) PLUS right now they're doing a special promo through the end of February, if you use the code SUDDORA5 you'll get 50% off (reg price is $6.99 so this is seriously a steal!)
-socks, I prefer compression socks of various heights depending on the race but my favorites are Swiftwick and PRO Compression. I'm part of the Switftwick sock of the month club which lets me try a wide variety of their selection and I have loved every pair. For the PRO Compression socks I tend to buy them from The Clymb because that's where I've found the best deal on them.
Biking:
-bike, for beginner triathletes you don't need to go out and buy the fanciest bike out there. I went with a moderately priced hybrid and it worked just fine for my races. Is it the lightest thing out there? no, but it gets the job done and it's still leaps and bounds ahead of a mountain bike.
-helmet, it's the rules folks...you must have an up to date helmet (you can check the rules for specifics but really I would hope you would want your head to be safe)
-water bottle/cage, you will get thirsty on your ride and this is your best chance to refuel. I also keep a fuelbelt strapped to my bike so I can eat some cliff blocks as needed during this portion of the tri.
-gloves, if your hands get sweaty or you need some extra shock absorption gloves are great. If you sweat a lot you might also want a towel on hand somewhere to keep you dry
Swimming:
-goggles, these don't have to be super fancy but you want something that won't fog up and fits your head well.
-swim cap, you will get a TON of these with each race you participate in so my advice is if you know there is a seasoned triathlete where you train or maybe even a group, ask them if they would mind letting you borrow one...most likely they have an overabundance of them and wouldn't mind just giving you one of theirs.
-tri suit, I'm sure there's plenty of debate on this but if you're like me and don't want to be fussy about changing at each transition the tri suit is a simple, easy way to get through the race. I wouldn't recommend using it for training in a pool, but it's great for outdoor swims and I loved mine on race day.
-wetsuit, now this isn't a must but if you live near a body of water that is generally cold you might want to invest in a wetsuit. Not only will it keep you warm but it will also help you float and move through the water with less resistance. If you do choose to go this route, I might also suggest some body glide to help get the suit on and off
Obviously this is just a super basic, bare bones list but it's a good place to get started. You don't need all the bells and whistles to get started, just a few basics will be enough. Hope this helps the newbies out there :)
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
BLRW Mobile Half Marathon Race Recap
Normally when I finish a big race I'm left with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. As I approach the finish line I begin to tear up a bit and when I finally have that medal placed around my neck I feel unstoppable. Sadly, I didn't feel any of that at The Biggest Loser Half Marathon in Mobile, AL this past weekend.Sunday morning I went through my normal pre-race routine and headed out to the race along with my aunt and a fellow running buddy Heather from my running team, The Midwest Vikings. As we lined up to start the race I took a glance around and realized that this was probably the smallest race I've run in. Overall there were only about 400 participants in the half marathon event. This was when I realized just how much the size of a race can change your perspective. I didn't have that excitement building like usual, it didn't even seem like the race was a big deal. I guess you could say that running in Chicago has made me a bit spoiled.
My first 3 miles were strong, I was holding onto a good pace and feeling great. Around mile 4 our course met with the 5k pack and I got to see my aunt for a minute before the trails split again. This was when I started feeling an annoying twinge on my pinky toe. By the time the race was over virtually my entire pinky toe had become one massive blister. (it still hurts by the way) I sucked it up and tried to make the best of the race anyway.
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| My aunt and I after the race |
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| Post Race obligatory selfie |
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| Fresh skrimps from the bay and my aunt's homemade hooch |
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On the plus side, here are a few of the highlights:
-smaller race means higher ranking, I was #18 in my age group!
-Mobile is beautiful, scenic and rich in history
-spending time with family I don't see that often
-a pretty sweet glittery medal and fancy tech shirt
-LOTS of GU (they basically poured a whole box of it into Heather's bag which she generously shared with me after the race)
-delicious fresh seafood from the bay
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
A Runner's Soul
I was reading a story about a runner who stopped to take pictures of Meg's memorial. (if you're not sure what I'm talking about, learn about Meg Menzies here and here) I didn't know Meg personally, but if you're a runner you feel like all runners are a part of your family. We're all connected in some way through our passion for lacing up our shoes each day and hitting the pavement (or trail, or treadmill) even if we may not always appreciate and honor what a blessing it is to do so. It made me cry but I was also left with this overwhelming sense of pride. Runners are part of a community that not many appreciate or comprehend unless they're a part of it. From the outside looking in you don't understand it and from the inside looking out you can't explain it. We are a collection of some of the strongest and most determined people on the planet. The soul of a runner can never be killed because it will always run free. We possess an unconquerable spirit that thrives on challenges and grows stronger with each test. Why are we so strong? Because we run with our heart, not our legs. A runners power doesn't come from their ability to run, but their undying will to persevere and conquer. That strength lies within each and every one of us, just waiting to be honed and nurtured. Whether its a one mile walk or a 64 mile trek through harsh conditions,we just keep going. We refuse to accept defeat. The truth is, it isn't about the number of races you've finished, how fast you went or even how many miles you traveled, its about not giving up. The moment you overcome the thing you once believed you weren't capable of doing, that is when you find just how unstoppable you are.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
2014 Race List (updated 7/21)
Here's what I have so far, it's a work in progress but it will give you a pretty good idea of what I have coming up this year in case you'd like to join me for a race or two :) I'm also open to any suggestions you might have!
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Monday, January 13, 2014
First medal of 2014: Polar Dash 5k recap
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| 2013 Polar Dash with Abby & Johnny |
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| Sam and I, post race |
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| Pre-race Wampa goodness |
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| My Midwest Vikings Family :) |
I'm still signed up for the remaining races in the series but I'm not sure I'll take any of them on again next year. Even if they do include some pretty sweet swag...
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| The swag |
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Run in the New Year
This New Year's Day I decided to trade in that icky morning hangover for a runner's high...well sort of. The conditions out there were pretty rough today and to not risk injury I decided to walk most of the 5k. Along my journey through the wind, sleet and snow I realized that in the last year I've made some huge strides towards being the best version of myself I can be. I've broken up with my doubts, conquered my fears and let go of everything holding me back. I'm starting this new year fresh with tons of positive energy and excitement. I'm hoping that it's infectious and those around me are able to cross a few goals off their lists as well.
The race itself was fairly small, I'm guessing the 9am start time combined with the weather conditions made it an unappealing choice this morning. As always the lake was beautiful along the course but that particular section felt like I was crossing through Valley Forge. I'm really trying to enjoy winter running but I just can't seem to get my body to agree. I definitely think I'll have to stick to short distance races because I'm not sure I could handle anything longer than a 5k in this kind of weather.
Running this morning was exactly what I wanted to do to get my day started off right. Especially after having such a great time last night. I'm not big on going out, I prefer staying in with friends and doing something low key. My roommate and I have a tradition of trying to do as many NYE superstitious traditions as we can. We eat the 12 grapes, wear red underwear, light candles, turn all the lights on, run around the block with luggage, fill a pouch with 12 different coins, eat some lentils and a whole host of other random quirky traditions from around the globe.
This year we added a few new ones and I'm glad we did. We read that in Russia people write their wish on a piece of paper, burn it and then drop the ashes in their champagne and drink it. It sounded crazy but that's sort of what NYE is all about for us so we tore off tiny pieces of paper to write our wish on and got a lighter out to turn it into ashes. Aside from that we also made 2 lists, one to keep and one to burn (those ashes went to the trash though). The first list was a list of all the wishes and goals we have for the new year along with what we plan to do to accomplish those goals. It seemed fitting that I jot them all down on my race bib so that's exactly what I did. I wanted to carry them with me on my very first run of 2014 and having them on my race bib was my way to do that and keep them in front of me as I hit the ground running. The other list was of all the negative things we wanted to leave behind before starting the new year. That list got burned and disposed of so that we had a fresh start as the countdown reached midnight. 
While most people tend to write resolutions, I think it's equally important to acknowledge the pitfalls you encountered so that you're sure to avoid them in the future. It was therapeutic to get it all out and symbolically wipe the slate clean. If you haven't already, start your lists, it's never too late to make a change and start fresh. As for me, I've already started attacking a few of those list items by registering for my first full marathon (Detroit 10/19) and my first olympic distance triathlon (Chicago 8/24). This will be a tremendous year for me as I continue to develop as an athlete and work towards becoming the best possible version of myself. So join me, let me know what you hope to do this year, maybe we can tackle some of those goals together...Wednesday, December 11, 2013
What running has taught me
1. Sometimes you do things you don't want to.
When I first started running I hated it. I didn't understand it and I certainly didn't enjoy it. It seemed crazy to run for fun. I just kept telling myself it would get better if I just kept pushing myself and eventually it did. It didn't happen overnight, but through months of hard work it paid off. Every run is different and each ones teaches me something new. It's like having a counselor, teacher and cheerleader all wrapped up into one. Every time you set out on a run it takes you on a new journey.
2. Start slow!
I'm not sure why I thought I could just jump into racing without any training. I guess I have sort of a complex about things and like to believe that I can do anything I put my mind to. That's partially true, but when it comes to anything physical you better train first to prepare your body. You have to walk before you can run, just like you should probably start with a 5k before jumping into a full marathon. With anything in life, it's best to work up to it rather than jump in and be overwhelmed or worse, drown.
3. Take your time
This one I had to learn the hard way. I'm stubborn. It's really hard for me to quiet my ego and slow down when I know I shouldn't be going as hard or fast during a run. Just this past weekend I made it through the first mile and felt pain creeping through my foot. I knew I needed to stop but my pride didn't want to let me. Eventually I gave in and walked, but it was harder to walk and take my time than to push through and finish strong like usual. You have to know your own limits and pay attention to them. There's no shame in slowing it down a bit, a 15 minute mile and 5 minute mile are both still a mile and at the finish line you'll get the same shiny medal to show off.
4. Set goals
When I first started running all I wanted to do was finish a 5k without stopping. To do this I told myself I would do at least one race a month to make sure I was staying in some kind of shape (even if that shape happened to be round at the time). Each time I reached a goal I would set a new one just beyond the grasp of that first one. Whenever I conquered a new feat, I felt unstoppable. Whether running or in just my day to day, I now feel like there isn't anything I can't do. The feeling of accomplishment and pride has to be earned. It is always worth it.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments
Sometimes its hard for us to be proud of something small, especially when we feel like we can do so much more. I have to constantly remind myself of this one. I often catch myself saying "oh it was just a 5k", but the truth is, even a shorter race has its challenges and celebrating a new PR or other accolade is every bit as important as others you may achieve. Don't let anyone dim your shine, when you've done something you're proud of, flaunt it, you deserve it.
6. Help others
This is my favorite. I've always loved helping people, but being a part of the running community has enriched my life so much that I don't feel I could possibly ever give enough back to repay it. Every time a friend or even stranger asks me for help with running or weight loss I get really excited. I'm so glad to see others getting serious about their health and I love that they feel comfortable enough to ask me to be a part of that journey. I will be your guru, support, encouragement, or whatever else you may need. Once you get going, remember to take a look around and help those around you get to where they want to be as well.
7. Stay strong
There will be times when you want to give up. You might lose sight of where you're going, or forgot how far you've come. Keep pushing. When you're able to keep going despite what may seem like the world crumbling around you, getting through it will be your best reward. There's no easy way out, you can't go around it, the best way is to simply lace up your shoes and keep on going. Don't let that roadblock stop you from getting to where you want to be, instead use it as a stepping stone to achieve higher success.
8. Just breath
Sometimes when I'm starting a race I get so excited and overwhelmed that I forget everything I've learned about running. I jump out of the starting line like a prized thoroughbred (forgetting that I'm more like a pack mule) and quickly run out of breath. I finally realize my grievous mistake and slow down to just focus on my breathing. It's calming to take a moment and just breath. Anytime you feel yourself sinking in, just take a moment to relax and breath. It helps.
9. Listen
If you're a fast runner you might not ever experience this, but you should try it at least once. Run with the back of the pack. My very first half marathon I struggled, but being in the back with all those people who just wanted an opportunity to cross that finish line truly changed me. They didn't need a PR, they just needed to prove that they could do it. They were strong enough to overcome cancer, the loss of a child, or a multitude of other hardships and persevere. Not just persevere, but grow beyond that and battle a beast they had never faced, a long distance race. I laughed, I cried, and more than anything I enjoyed hearing stories from my fellow runners. These tales from the road will move you, all you need to do is listen and be inspired.
10. Smile
I've found that there isn't much a smile can't help. This holds true for running. Any race that I've had a hard time with, I just push down all the negative feelings and put a smile on my face. You'd be surprised how people react to it, it's as if your happiness is infectious. Encourage someone around you and offer them a smile, it just may be the thing they need to help them keep going. Smile at the spectators to let them know you appreciate their cheers. Just keep smiling, no matter what, it will almost certainly make you feel better and definitely brighten the day of those around you.
I'm sure there are plenty more, but 10 seemed like a good number to share so maybe I'll revisit this in the future and add a few things. This list isn't exclusive to running, but can be applied to pretty much anything in life. Being a runner has changed my perspective in ways I never thought possible. I'm a better, stronger, happier person because of running.
When I first started running I hated it. I didn't understand it and I certainly didn't enjoy it. It seemed crazy to run for fun. I just kept telling myself it would get better if I just kept pushing myself and eventually it did. It didn't happen overnight, but through months of hard work it paid off. Every run is different and each ones teaches me something new. It's like having a counselor, teacher and cheerleader all wrapped up into one. Every time you set out on a run it takes you on a new journey.
2. Start slow!
I'm not sure why I thought I could just jump into racing without any training. I guess I have sort of a complex about things and like to believe that I can do anything I put my mind to. That's partially true, but when it comes to anything physical you better train first to prepare your body. You have to walk before you can run, just like you should probably start with a 5k before jumping into a full marathon. With anything in life, it's best to work up to it rather than jump in and be overwhelmed or worse, drown.
3. Take your time
This one I had to learn the hard way. I'm stubborn. It's really hard for me to quiet my ego and slow down when I know I shouldn't be going as hard or fast during a run. Just this past weekend I made it through the first mile and felt pain creeping through my foot. I knew I needed to stop but my pride didn't want to let me. Eventually I gave in and walked, but it was harder to walk and take my time than to push through and finish strong like usual. You have to know your own limits and pay attention to them. There's no shame in slowing it down a bit, a 15 minute mile and 5 minute mile are both still a mile and at the finish line you'll get the same shiny medal to show off.
4. Set goals
When I first started running all I wanted to do was finish a 5k without stopping. To do this I told myself I would do at least one race a month to make sure I was staying in some kind of shape (even if that shape happened to be round at the time). Each time I reached a goal I would set a new one just beyond the grasp of that first one. Whenever I conquered a new feat, I felt unstoppable. Whether running or in just my day to day, I now feel like there isn't anything I can't do. The feeling of accomplishment and pride has to be earned. It is always worth it.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments
Sometimes its hard for us to be proud of something small, especially when we feel like we can do so much more. I have to constantly remind myself of this one. I often catch myself saying "oh it was just a 5k", but the truth is, even a shorter race has its challenges and celebrating a new PR or other accolade is every bit as important as others you may achieve. Don't let anyone dim your shine, when you've done something you're proud of, flaunt it, you deserve it.
6. Help others
This is my favorite. I've always loved helping people, but being a part of the running community has enriched my life so much that I don't feel I could possibly ever give enough back to repay it. Every time a friend or even stranger asks me for help with running or weight loss I get really excited. I'm so glad to see others getting serious about their health and I love that they feel comfortable enough to ask me to be a part of that journey. I will be your guru, support, encouragement, or whatever else you may need. Once you get going, remember to take a look around and help those around you get to where they want to be as well.
7. Stay strong
There will be times when you want to give up. You might lose sight of where you're going, or forgot how far you've come. Keep pushing. When you're able to keep going despite what may seem like the world crumbling around you, getting through it will be your best reward. There's no easy way out, you can't go around it, the best way is to simply lace up your shoes and keep on going. Don't let that roadblock stop you from getting to where you want to be, instead use it as a stepping stone to achieve higher success.
8. Just breath
Sometimes when I'm starting a race I get so excited and overwhelmed that I forget everything I've learned about running. I jump out of the starting line like a prized thoroughbred (forgetting that I'm more like a pack mule) and quickly run out of breath. I finally realize my grievous mistake and slow down to just focus on my breathing. It's calming to take a moment and just breath. Anytime you feel yourself sinking in, just take a moment to relax and breath. It helps.
9. Listen
If you're a fast runner you might not ever experience this, but you should try it at least once. Run with the back of the pack. My very first half marathon I struggled, but being in the back with all those people who just wanted an opportunity to cross that finish line truly changed me. They didn't need a PR, they just needed to prove that they could do it. They were strong enough to overcome cancer, the loss of a child, or a multitude of other hardships and persevere. Not just persevere, but grow beyond that and battle a beast they had never faced, a long distance race. I laughed, I cried, and more than anything I enjoyed hearing stories from my fellow runners. These tales from the road will move you, all you need to do is listen and be inspired.
10. Smile
I've found that there isn't much a smile can't help. This holds true for running. Any race that I've had a hard time with, I just push down all the negative feelings and put a smile on my face. You'd be surprised how people react to it, it's as if your happiness is infectious. Encourage someone around you and offer them a smile, it just may be the thing they need to help them keep going. Smile at the spectators to let them know you appreciate their cheers. Just keep smiling, no matter what, it will almost certainly make you feel better and definitely brighten the day of those around you.
I'm sure there are plenty more, but 10 seemed like a good number to share so maybe I'll revisit this in the future and add a few things. This list isn't exclusive to running, but can be applied to pretty much anything in life. Being a runner has changed my perspective in ways I never thought possible. I'm a better, stronger, happier person because of running.
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