RUN FASTER MOMMY!

Mind Games.

2012-05-25T00:00:00.002-04:00

I firmly believe that life is what you make of it. Someone famous once said something about how you may not be in charge of what happens TO you, but you are always in charge of how you let it AFFECT you.   Yes friends, you are in control of your own happiness, you can turn lemons into lemonade, and all of that good motivational pep talk you see on big posters hanging in your high school guidance counselors office.

Sarcasm aside, I promise you, it is all true.

Trust me.

And life is so much more enjoyable once you grasp this concept, because it is certainly inevitable that there will be trying times. This week, I have put a fantastic spin on the the frustrating, sometimes painful "stuff" that has been plaguing me as of late: Ultra Beast Mental Training. (Are you sick of hearing about the Ultra Beast yet? No? Good, because we are just getting started. )

Let me give you an example:

Saturday night, my boys got bunk beds. What 3 & 5 year old wouldn't be over the moon stoked about that? Mine certainly were, and have willingly and gladly gone to bed without hesitation because they love their new bunk beds so much. So where does the opportunity to practice mental toughness come in, you may ask? Oh, usually somewhere around 5:45 am. That's when the baby, who was previously contained to his crib* and willingly slept until at least 7:30ish, realizes he has this new early morning freedom and decides to start poking me in the ribs and/or pry my eyelids opening all while declaring "it's morning, I want some cereal".

(*judge if you want that he was 3 and still in a crib. He loved that darn thing, and any parent will tell you that when it comes to sleep, you don't mess with a good thing)

Not only is that REALLY way to early to be debating with a three year old who insists that three poptarts would be a stellar breakfast, because poptarts are good and three is his favorite number, but it also means I've missed crossfit 4 times now.   Early morning arguments over high fructose corn syrup laden breakfast junk + no WOD = cranky, cranky mama. OR...spin it around, and look at me overcoming adversity. If I can start my day off like THAT, no spartan with a pugil stick is gonna take me down. OK maybe PHYSICALLY, especially if they aim for my feet, but they won't crush my spirit. See where I'm going with this?

Example #2

Sometime last week I broke my tooth. Yes, broke. A molar in the back, while eating. It didn't hurt, in fact, I didn't even notice exactly when it happened. It wasn't until my tongue brushed against it that I realized something wasn't quite right, and a quick glance in the mirror confirmed that sure enough, a third of my tooth was missing. What the heck.   But in typical busy mom fashion, I put my health aside (who needs teeth anyway?) and figured I'd get to the dentist. Eventually.  When I had some extra time and money (haaaa!).   I should have realized last night during my run when every strike of my right foot radiated into my jaw that something wasn't quite right. But no, it wasn't until I woke up this morning with my jaw and lymph nodes in my neck swollen that I figured maaaaaaaybe I should see a dentist.

Let me just start by saying, no disrespect to my friends in the dental field, but I would rather army crawl on my stomach on really sharp rocks under dangerously low barbed wire for five miles than visit the dentist for this type of situation. Or who am I kidding, any type of situation, really.   Three things in this world give me anxiety: tornadoes, millipedes, and dentist visits. Alas, big girl britches pulled up high, I made an appointment and went in anyway. So there I was, getting those ridiculously obnoxious and painful xray things shoved into my gums (have they not invented a better way to do that yet?) when I thought to myself "Beast mode, beast mode, go into beast mode. This doesn't hurt, nooooo, give me more pain, bring it!" Reverse psychology works really well when you practice.

And the dentist and my tooth must have known I needed this mental toughness training, because together they gave me a really epic decision to ponder while I soak in these antibiotics: root canal or tooth extraction?

Psshhh bring it on, tooth.

Lemons into lemonade.

In all seriousness, and Spartan racing aside, I fully believe that every experience we face in life is an opportunity to grow. Good times, bad times, trying times. It's all a matter of how WE choose to react.

Don't be afraid to GROW. Play mind games....and WIN. <3

Beastly Training

2012-05-24T08:00:00.002-04:00

A few days ago, I read that it took last year's VT Spartan Beast female winner 3:45:xx ish to finish the race. A 12 mile race. Winner. Almost four hours. That gives you an idea of how tough that race was.
The one I'm running will be twice the distance. Twice the obstacles.

When I read the quote from Margaret of "Dirt in your Skirt", a very experienced Spartan and obstacle course racer, saying that we, the first ever Ultra Beast runners, should "get used to the idea you need to carry everything and it might take 10+ hours to finish" it actually really hit me...

I can't f*&k around.

(excuse the language. I've been told it's not classy to swear. But if ever there was a time to curse, it's during a discussion involving a 26+ mile race, fire, barbed wire, mountain slopes, and 10+ hour finish times. F*&k. )

Don't get me wrong, I'm not any less excited or any more nervous for this race with this new found bit of information. It's just that *in the past* I have had this tendency of beating around the bush when it comes to structured, disciplined training. I hate to refer to it as lack of discipline, more so a lack of attention span. I run, just not when nor how far the training calendar tells me to. Which is ironic, because I write out training plans for others, and hound them to stick to it. Do as I say, not as I do.   But TEN hours = not a really fun time if you show up totally unprepared.

But fear not, my faithful readers. This time, instead of lollygagging around (that word is fun) my crazy focus on this task at hand has me already headed down the opposite path: overkill. Tuesday, I pulled an abdominal muscle doing box jumps. Seriously, who does that?    Heather with the apparently weak core, that's who. There I was, burpeeing, box jumping, and running 1/12th of a mile sprints in all of my "look at me, I'm an Ultra Beast in training" glory at the Y, when all of a sudden during a jump I felt the sharp pain.

Now, I am stubborn, no doubt about it (blame genetics, that's what I do when my own kids don't listen), but for once the rational side of my brain kicked in and I thought of the advice that I always give my own clients: "Know the difference between discomfort and pain. Push through discomfort. Push through 'this sucks' and 'I really, really hate this', but know when to stop when something doesn't feel right."

Something seriously didn't feel right, so I stopped.   Later that night at work, during my usual rounds around the fitness center, I jumped up to the pullup bar, as I have a hundred times before to knock out a pullup or two before continuing on the rounds. The second I engaged my core and started to pull up, it was like a knife in the gut.

Hmph.

Don't worry, the next day I was back to new, but it was a sign, a sign perhaps not from the Spartans from the exercise science gods, that now is the time to put together a plan. You see, my first instinct towards training for the Ultra Beast was to just train LIKE a beast. Anything, everything, whenever I got the chance. Go, go, go, more, more, more.   However, I'm now thinking that while crazy training is certainly necessary....progressive crazy training might be the best idea. Structure, with all of those principals of training and exercise they taught me in school, complete with the dreaded....say it with me now....rest days. I hate rest days. I don't play well with others on rest days. I get painfully cranky and irritable on rest days. Burpees don't make me uncomfortable, rest days make me uncomfortable.

So here's the general plan:

1) Run. A lot. Conveniently, I have a 50 miler scheduled for August 18th. This should come in handy.

2) CrossFit. 4x week. (don't get me started on how I missed 2 days this week due to the "Great Bunk Bed Transition of 2012, that's for another post)

3) Mountains. Hike, run, scale, whatever. Up and down, up and down, get used to the awesome suckiness of steep grades.

4) More core. The core is weak. WEAK!

5) Swim, once, maybe even twice a week. Because a) I hate swimming and b) the thought of possibly having to swim, with sneakers, and a relatively heavy camel back on, scares me.

weeee cross-training !

6) Practice mud runs. Renegade Playground (they are letting us run twice, I hear). LoziLu. HeroRush. Warrior Dash. Spartan Sprints. Whatever I can get my hands on. Mud, obstacles, fire.

7) Find random heavy things to carry around, monkey bars on the playground, and awkward things to climb up and over

AND....

8) Rest *shudder*

Sure I'll come up with a more concrete plan (especially when it comes to building back up the mileage) but this is my starting point, the Lincoln logs to build my beastly cabin. This should get interesting...

So , chime in:
Are you a training plan person? Does having a concrete schedule motivate you? Or do you loathe them and wing it? Somewhere in between? Let's hear it!

Timex Ironman GPS: Global Trainer & Run Trainer Reviews

2012-05-21T10:20:00.004-04:00

Test run to the top of a mountain? Check!

On my 14th birthday, I woke up early and ran to the breakfast table, eager to open my gifts before school. What would it be ? New clothes? The latest Alanis Morisette CD? Whatever else I liked when I was 14? Nope. None of the above. It was a Timex Ironman chrono watch. My dad swore up and down that it was the best watch out there. I hid my utter disappointment at the time that I got a lame watch for my birthday (I was hoping to rock the latest Abercrombie and fitch gear or whatever else was hip back in the 90's), but as it turned out, my dad knew what he was doing. That watch lasted FOREVER, and was a staple to my wardrobe/sports training for the next 5 or 6 years. I had to replace the band long before anything else on the watch stopped working. So needless to say, I already stand behind the quality of Timex products.

These days, however, the bells and whistles are far greater than the early Ironman watch I owned. So I was very excited when Timex offered to provided me with two of their Ironman line GPS models to review.

I'll be honest: my reviews of these types of products do not go into great detail about the tech side of the gear. As a mom on the run (literally) my reviews consist more of: does it fit? Does it withstand to my 3 year old stealing the watch and pushing all of the buttons at the same time and then throwing it across the room? Is this a realistic product for me to use day to day? I'm happy to say that with the Timex products, the answer is "yes" to all of the above (seriously, Kain did some quality control testing of his own on the Run Trainer...sigh)

So, first up:

Timex Ironman Global Trainer GPS w/ Heart Rate Monitor

What they say: "Worn on your wrist or mounted to your bike handlebars, the Timex Ironman Global Trainer is the only multisport GPS product worthy of the Ironman name. It delivers a state of the art GPS that records pace, speed, distance, and more. Powered by SiRFstarIII GPS technology and ANT+ compatibility, Global Trainer records your performance across several dimensions, providing real-time data on a customizable screen. It’s Multisport mode allows for a customizable sequence of up to five activities to make triathlon data capture completely seamless. This bundle includes an accurate heart rate sensor, and can be paired with third party ANT+ power meters. After your workout, download performance and route data to Timex Ironman online training log software powered by TrainingPeaks."

Special Features:

GPS-Enabled Watch Measures Pace, Speed, Distance, Heart Rate and More in Real-Time.
SiRFstarIII GPS Technology Requires No Calibration
Customizable Screen Display Show Up to Four Windows of Information
20-Workout Memory with Dated Summary Records up to 1000 Laps of Information
Battery Recharges when Connected to USB Port or to any Electrical Outlet with Included AC Adaptor
Comes with Timex Flex-Tech™ Digital 2.4 Heart Rate Sensor
Compatible with Timex Foot Pod sensor using ANT+

MSRP: $360 (with HR monitor)

What I say:

Likes: Off the shelf incredibly easy to use. I took it out of the box and started playing with the functions without reading the manual first, and I had no problem finding the "run" portion of multisport, hitting start, and going for a run. The screen is large and easy to read, the buttons the same. While the face plate is large in diameter, it is not very large in height off of the wrist (like some other GPS watches you may or may not be familiar with!). Honestly I'll take the large faceplate if it means I can see the stats clearly while ON the run.

size comparison: Motorola Motoactv, Timex Run Trainer, Timex Global Trainer, Garmin Forerunner 305

The watch is also waterproof, which totally solves the swimming issue. I hated that I could never take trusty coach Garmin into the pool. The multi-sport function is easy to use. And conveniently, the Global Trainer comes with a bike mount that easily and securely snaps onto your bike's handle bars (a little trickier to find the right spot when you have aero-only, but I had no problem snapping the mount onto the side)

I love the soft heart rate monitor strap (as opposed to some that are stiff the entire length of the front chest strap). I had zero issues with heart rate monitoring or losing signal, and could comfortably wear the chest strap for hours at a time.

soft Timex strap (top) vs. stiff Garmin 305 model

I will be honest, call me old school but I prefer buttons over touch screens of some other brand's newer models. There is no accidental stopping of the timer, hitting the lap button, etc. if you brush the screen.
Lastly, I appreciated that when you power off the watch, it is now in "time" mode, as a standard watch. Convenient!

Dislikes: Twice I couldn't locate GPS satellites, at all. One time I will forgive the watch, as I was in the deep forest in the middle of no where (the trail head of Mt. Monadnock) but another time, I was in the middle of downtown. I realize this is a common problem with ALL GPS watches, not simply the Timex brand, but I felt it should be noted.

Timex Ironman Run Trainer GPS w/ Heart Rate Monitor

What they say: "It’s no longer enough to train hard, you also have to train smart if you want an edge. The Timex Ironman Run Trainer’s sleek styling and compact build complements a wide array of wrist sizes and running styles. The Run Trainer offers a large, readable face with three or customizable line displays, allowing users to view their preferred information during workouts. The product includes real-time pace, distance and elevation data using SiRFstarIVä GPS technology. In addition, the training device boasts an eight hour battery life and offers water resistance to 50 meters. "

Special Features:

GPS-Enabled Watch Measures Pace, Speed, Distance and More in Real-Time
Fastest and Most Reliable Signal with SiRFstar IV™ GPS Technology
Highly Customizable, Easy-to-Read Screen Shows Three- or Four-Lines of Data
Interval Timers, Alerts and 15-Workout Memory
8-Hour Battery in Full GPS Mode; Recharge with Included USB Cable
Comes with Timex Flex-Tech™ Digital 2.4 Heart Rate Sensor
50-Meter Water Resistance
Compatible with ANT+ Foot Pod Sensor
Easily Customize Watch Settings on a Computer
Review Maps and Performance Online
INDIGLO® Night-Light with Option for Full-Time Illumination

MSRP: $275 (w/HR monitor)

What I say:

Let's lump likes & dislikes together for this one: My huge dislike was that it took me FOREVER to figure out how to work this thing, switch functions, etc, and the owners manual was seriously lacking in helpful information. That said, once I figured it out, I LOVE this watch. It is smaller than the Global Trainer, which is great for me and my freakishly small wrists. Once I picked up GPS satellite, I never lost it, even through deep trails.

As a fitness professional, I like to have a watch and HR monitor on throughout most of the day. For obvious reasons, like timing intervals, keeping track of a class, answering the never ending "hey do you know what time it is?" question, and not so obvious things, like getting a general estimate of daily caloric burn based on HR, and keeping track of my personal heart rate (because I'm an exercise science nerd) while teaching classes. I really enjoyed the Run Trainer as I was able to customize the main screen to show me exactly what I wanted (HR & calorie burn) for work, and then quickly switch over to a GPS enabled watch to go for a quick run on the trail behind our facility (because honestly, this does happen a lot at my job. I am blessed!)

For both products, I was able to log onto https://timextrainer.trainingpeaks.com and create a free user profile. I'll be honest, I'm a "here and now" runner. What's my pace RIGHT NOW and how far have I gone, at THIS VERY SECOND. I know a lot of people do enjoy analyzing every tenth of a mile over their race, but clearly I do not have the attention span (nor time) for that, so I'll be honest that I didn't go far into depth with this part of the review. However, I know a lot of people are huge fans of Training Peaks. I have used it in the past, and it is truly a great program to create, track, and analyze your training plan, so I was excited to see that the Timex Ironman products were compatible.

I also appreciated that both models came with an entire booklet dedicated to heart rate monitoring and training. The number one question I get from new clients, members, and athletes is "what should my heart rate be?" Of course, without lab testing it's hard to know exactly, but the booklet gave an easy to understand, basic description of how heart rate training should work.

For those debating between the two models, I would ask you what your main goals are. If you are a statistical/training numbers junkie: go for the Global Trainer. I have been using this watch for months now and have hardly scratched the surface of the capabilities of this watch. It is a must for triathletes with it's multisport functions. If you are looking for something a little more versatile and more "watch" like (for the gym, for the run, for timing your grocery shopping aisle splits), I'd suggest the run trainer.

It is very hard to list ALL of the capabilities of these watches without sounding like an owners manual, so if you have ANY specific questions at all about this review, these products, or simply my opinion on these products, please comment below and I'm happy to answer them!

For more information on these models, as well as others in the Timex Ironman line, please visit their website.

*note: Timex provided me with these products for review free of charge, however, all opinions and reviews stated are 100% mine. *

Limits

2012-05-18T11:21:00.002-04:00

There are two kinds of "I don't want to get out of bed this morning". First is the kind where you toss and turn all night, with unsatisfying intermittent sleep. When the alarm goes off you are cursing the sandman for being a no-show to the party, and you just KNOW you are going to be exhausted all day. Someone pass me the caffeine. There's nothing good about this type, at all. Then there is the kind of "I don't want to get up" where the alarm goes off and you literally think "woah, what just happened? Didn't I just lay down in bed?" because you slept SO soundly. Like an 8 hour time warp (who am I kidding, in my world it's more like 6 hours if I'm lucky).

I'm pretty sure the latter is how sleep is SUPPOSED to go, but as a mom of two, who did ALL of the night time feedings and wakings for the last 5 years (just calling a spade a spade), that deep sound sleep is something that is so incredibly rare in my life, I really can't remember what it's like for that to be a frequent occurrence.

This morning, I hit the snooze button 6 times as I tried to pull myself out of that time-warp kind of sleep. SIX times. Each time I thought about how sore I am. How exhausted I feel. How these workouts are kicking my butt. How easy it would be to sleep in just one more hour. And everytime I almost gave into the warm comforter and the "dismiss" instead of "snooze" button, I would think of the email I got yesterday:

...The Ultra Beast will be the ultimate challenge and will require dedicated training, and an understanding of self-support as only ONE water station will be available on course. Finishers will have to be strong, durable, mentally tough, and prepared to take on the challenge of the Vermont Mountains. It will not be easy but this is a Spartan Race, so easy isn’t what you were looking for.

Good luck. Welcome to the Ultra Beast.

And while even though I wanted nothing more than to stay in my DOMS filled coma while convincing myself that "rest is good for me"...I got out of bed and headed into CrossFit.

So yeah, I got into the Spartan Ultra Beast. I can't tell you how excited I was (am). Actually, my spin class could tell you probably, as I read the email literally 30 seconds before class started and then laid into them with a ton of hills and sprints (isn't that how everyone celebrates good news?).

But now that the excitement is over, it's time to get to serious work. 126 days. Could I drop and run a marathon on whim, today? Sure (not that I recommend it) A tough mudder? Super Spartan? Yup, I'm in decent shape. By health standards, I'm a gold star, baby. Heck, I ran my first sub 20 minute 5k yesterday.

But do I have what it takes to survive this, times two, for 26 + miles, unsupported ?

I don't know if I do right this second, but I damn well will by the time September rolls around, mark my words.

To completely change the topic but I swear it's all related, I think I may have mentioned that I officially joined CrossFit Keene this week. And thus, this week has been spent learning that I am WEAK. Seriously. I know not everyone starts out of the gate with the exact prescribed WOD's, but all I can say is thank goodness for modifications and scaling (best part about crossfit), because that's what I've had to do for just about EVERYTHING. My core is weak. My back is weak. My squat form sucks. Pullups suck. Deadlifts suck. I can't even get into a handstand never mind do handstand pushups. It all sucks so much and I'm so weak in almost every aspect... that I simply can not get enough. I want more, I want to get better, stronger. I'm hooked.

There comes a point in every fitness-enthusiast-turned-athlete's life where they cross that threshold, from land of "I should workout because it will make me stronger/healthier/skinnier" to "Bring it on. Faster. Better. Stronger. Whatever it takes Screw vanity, I want to be the BEST."

The last six months have changed me in so many ways. One being exactly what I mentioned above. Believe it or not, there was a time where I only saw fitness as a very dreaded way to fit into my skinny jeans. Then, it evolved into the dreaded long runs, just because I liked to run marathons. But nothing more. I loved the finish line, I loved the atmosphere, I loved the medals. I didn't love to train.    In fact, I almost always used something in my crazy life as an excuse (scroll back a year or two in this very blog, and you'll see for yourself, or ask anyone in my old running group about how many times I didn't show up to morning runs).   I always enjoyed exercise , I wouldn't have spent the last 4 years and more money than I care to think about earning a degree in it if I didn't love it. But it was always from a "health seeker" point of view, and I was far from dedicated.

For me, pushing the limits came as a result of emotional pain. Pushing my body physically was a temporary solution to quelling the heartache and numbing the chaos of what my life had become. Eventually, the heartache quieted down, and I was left physically stronger. I saw results from the hard work. Big ones. I was fitter than I have ever been before. Faster than I have ever been before. And while I slowly no longer needed the mind numbing aspect of the workout, I found myself still looking forward to that feeling of discomfort from things being NOT easy. I don't want to be told I'm good at something, I want to constantly be told how to be even BETTER. Training for this race will only help me strive to be better.

So now that my blog post about getting into the Spartan Ultra Beast has turned into some sort of a novel, let me bring this full circle.   This race means a thousand different things to me, that I'd love to tell you all about but this post has already taken 4 hours to write because my kids have a thousand different things to say today and suddenly I can not form a coherent thought.

So I will just say this: I refuse to fail. The blinders are on. Target locked. Spartan Ultra Beast or bust.   Thank you for all of your support in getting me to this point, and I hope you'll follow my journey to the finish line.

And I'll finish this (ridiculously long) post with this thought...

In the fitness field, people ask me all the time "how do you find the motivation?" and the truth is, I don't know how to answer them. I can give them my answer, but I can't give them theirs. Everyone has to find something deep within themselves. Something they want to beat. Prove. Do. Conquer. You have to want it for you, and for no one or nothing else. It's one thing to want to be "skinnier", it's a complete different one to want to be your BEST. To win, whatever "winning" means to you.

Find your goal, hold on tight, believe in yourself, and don't ever give up. <3

You'll shoot your eye out! (a.k.a. "let me into the Spartan Ultra Beast!)

2012-05-16T09:54:00.005-04:00

So here's the thing: I want to run the Spartan Ultra Beast.

26.2(ish) miles of 50 (ish) Spartan race obstacles. That's potential for like, 1500 burpees (in a Spartan race, they tend to dole out 15-30 burpees as punishment per each failed obstacle). One (yes, 1 single) aid station will be on course with water and/or sports drinks at an undisclosed location on the course (according to the website)

Mud, hills, fire, barbed wire, scaling walls, and certainly carrying something heavy and awkward (sandbags? logs? boulders? tires? small squirming children?), along with plenty of other ridiculous obstacles plus a marathon. In the woods.

And I want in. Really, really bad. In an obsessive "Ralphie wants a Red Ryder BB Gun" sort of way.

(You'll shoot your eye out!)

There is not one specific reason why I've now decided that this is my "A" race for the year, my single, specific focus of training this summer (assuming I get in). The exercise/endurance sadistic part of me thinks the Ultra Beast looks....fun. Every time I describe the race and how anxious I am to hear back from the Spartan HQ (do we refer to that as Sparta?) the look on others faces is priceless. You know the one, the "come again, you want to do what now?" look, combined with the "I should back away slowly for I am not sure you are completely sane" eyes. But I live for these kinds of challenges.

And another part of me...the part that has been to hell and back over the last year, wants to remind the part that at one point was so broken it just wanted to simply give up, that we (meaning, me) are so much stronger than we think.

So my Spartan friends, here are ten reasons why you should let me into the Ultra Beast (since you made me limit it to 3 sentences on the application, and frankly, as anyone who knows me can attest, I have a lot to say. A lot.)

1) I am not afraid of a challenge. ANY challenge, no matter how difficult and/or gross. Just the other day I pulled a power ranger lego character's head out of a 3 year old's nostril. Those of you who are scoffing right now thinking "pshh that's not a feat of endurance or strength" have clearly never attempted to pull a power ranger lego characters head out of a 3 year old's nostril.

2) Obstacle course/mud runs do this to me, and I still come back for more:

That's sexy. Or a 2nd degree anterior talofibular ligament tear. Take your pick. I prefer sexy.

3) Every time I see that post going around facebook about how no one "likes" burpees, I think to myself...but I really do like burpees. (I really do!)

4) I work out for a living. As a personal trainer, wellness coach, group exercise instructor, and ASCM certified health fitness specialist, I'm constantly moving and training. Six, sometimes seven days a week, the gym is my home away from home. And that doesn't include my personal workouts (CrossFit, distance running, trails, etc). Every day I strive to become fitter, faster, better, stronger. And honestly, I simply can not sit still. PLUS..I dole out burpees to others on a daily basis. See? We have TONS in common!

5) I like to run. A lot. One time, I ran a marathon, then a half marathon, then a trail marathon, all in the span of 2 weeks, just because I could. I wear my marathon maniac title proudly (#3572!). My 50 mile ultra in August will make a perfect training run for the Ultra Beast.

6) My running partner in crime Hope and I are some of the original "Spartan Chicks." Long before there was official Spartan-Chicked gear, we made our own. Go ahead and ask Shawty Spartan/Carrie Adams about the bedazzler ;) And I remember when the now 4,000+ strong facebook group only had a handful of us.

The lovely SportyMomme, and yes we did get many compliments from guys as we "chicked" them on the course

Who's your Spartan? 2011 Carolina Super Spartan finish line

7) Let's get personal for a second (hey, I've never denied the fact that I'm an over-sharer): you want mental toughness? Nothing you can dish out can compare to what I've been through this past year. I'm a single mom and went through quite the sh*t storm that put me here. I've been torn down. I've hit rock bottom. But like Kelly Clarkson and Kanye West say (and Friedrich Nietzsche, I suppose, if pop music isn't your thing) "What doesn't kill me makes me stronger". Day by day my phoenix wings are spreading as I slowly pick my way up out of the ashes, and every day I'm stronger than the one before. Further, I now play zone defense on a 3 and 5 year old boys and thus, also have an awesome ability to foresee future dangers, disasters, and (typically very messy) obstacles, plan accordingly, and then tackle them like a boss. (I'm also really good at refereeing wrestling matches, for what it's worth)

8) These days, I call New Hampshire home. As spring slowly works it's way into summer, I'm eating UP the beautiful outdoors in this state. Mountains, trails, hills, I can't get enough of them. Can you think of a better place to train for the ultra beast? OK I'm sure there's a few, but it beats the heck out of suburban Myrtle Beach where I just came from. Running on the beach can only get you so far...let's run up Mt. Monadnock instead.

9)

10) I love you. I honestly love you. *wink wink*. Let me in.

(Run Faster Mommy friends and fans, feel free to tweet the good people at the Spartan Race or harass them on facebook, and let them know that they should let me into the Ultra Beast! You all rock! And...anyone else in for the Beast or ultra Beast?)

Reebok Fitness Experience - Part 2

2012-05-15T08:35:00.002-04:00

So we left off yesterday with the awesome workout at Reebok Crossfit ONE, and me telling you that if you have wanted to try CrossFit but haven't yet, you NEED to. (I reiterate that statement today, even though I can't lift my 40 lb kid off the ground right now after yesterday & this morning's WODs).

We then walked across campus and back to the headquarters to meet with some of the amazing women behind the Reebok product. What impressed me the most about the presentation they gave us was how much they genuinely seemed to value OUR feedback. As both fitness enthusiasts & fitness professionals from all disciplines, shoppers and even fashionistas, they wanted ALL of our opinions. And they feverishly took notes as we shared our ideas. I loved that. As a fitness professional myself, you can imagine what my wardrobe consists of. It's imperative to me to have clothing and sneakers that are functional for *me*. And it's an added bonus when the functional gear is also the stylish, cute stuff. I really appreciated that they wanted to hear from ME, someone who works IN the fitness field and busts my a$$ in the gym daily, versus just taking into account what the latest "fashion" trend is on the runway.

We were shown both current product and top secret up and coming products (believe me, you'll want to keep your eyes open for what Reebok has in store!) Some of my favorite current product? The new CrossFit line , which is designed with top of the line materials with range of motion and freedom of movement kept in mind at all times. And, it's really cute. I'm just saying ;)

We went into great depth talking about shoe lines, as well as what and who they are designed for. As a big fan of the barefoot/minimal shoe movement, I appreciated that the ladies took the time to explain foot type, what the "drop" in a shoe means, and most importantly (for me) discuss Reebok's view on this current trend. Basically, Reebok believes that while you should have a more natural shoe, they also believe you should be able to jump right into a sneaker and be able to use it, instead of needing months of "transitioning". As a consumer, and a mom who leads an incredibly hectic life, I really appreciate that point of view.

The ladies showed us some of the most popular shoes in their line, including the Real Flex Transition, the Zig Tech, and the Crossfit Nano, as well as all of the technology that goes into the shoes. For example, the individual nodes in the Real Flex that allow for 360 degrees of flexibility and a more natural platform. Or, the "U-Form" technology, as seen in the Crossfit Flex Nano, that allows you to heat the upper of the shoe simply with a hairdryer, then have it custom mold to YOUR foot.

from top to bottom: Real Flex Transition, Zig Tech, CrossFit Flex Nano

Reebok fed us a delicious, healthy lunch, where I proceeded to embarrass myself as I admitted to my fellow healthy living bloggers that I am one of the horrible junk food junkies who doesn't think twice about where my food comes from (*sigh*) but assured them I'm going to start working on it. I swear. I'm eating fruit salad as I type this. Promise!

Next up, it was time to learn more about what goes into actually designing a shoe. We met with Bill McInnis, Head of Advanced Innovation, who is, interestingly enough, a former NASA rocket scientist. See? A lot of work goes into these shoes ;) The exercise scientist in me was a little giddy when we headed into a giant conference room FULL of anatomy and biomechanics text books. Bill told us all about the process of coming up with an idea to actually getting a prototype. And instead of just telling us about it, they actually showed us, from the CAD designs to the actual machines that whip up 3D models.

And then came the hysterically fun part. Reebok flew in the amazing Ilyse Baker, choreographer and dance fitness expert based in L.A, to lead us through a class. Let's just say, the Beyonce moves I *thought* I have in the dance club are nothing like the ones I *actually* have when I see myself in the mirror, in the middle of a studio (perhaps it was the lack of a few adult beverages? Let's blame that!). Seriously though, even with my horrible moves, Ilyse's dance class was SO much fun. Check out this video below. I highly doubt Rhianna will be calling any of us anytime soon to be her back up dancers, but we all broke a sweat and got in a great workout. And fun is what it's all about! Sorry, but thankfully, you can only catch a few quick glimpses of me. heh heh. (Thanks to Bex for the video!)

We reconvened for a huge round of thank you's and hugs to and from our wonderful hostesses at Reebok. I really hated to leave, but left with some amazing new additions to my wardrobe. I've already put much of it through the ringer between work, running, and crossfit, and I am pleasantly surprised. Needless to say, my previous thoughts about step class and white high top sneakers have been replaced with thoughts of strength and kick-ass-ness (is that a word? Is now!).

Thank you Reebok , for everything. For an amazing day, for great products, and for your commitment to the sport of fitness and athletes of all types. You have earned yourself a new fan!

*disclaimer* I was provided a day at the Reebok Headquarters and Reebok gear free of charge, however, all opinions expressed in this blog post are solely that of my own.

Reebok Fitness Experience Part 1 - CrossFit

2012-05-14T09:45:00.003-04:00

The universe continues to work in mysterious ways.

For the past few months I've been doing a lot of functional training on my own. Any sort of WOD I can come across that I am able to do at the Y, I try to do. If not, I'll put together some mishmash of sprints, burpees, and box jumps and call it a day. This is also how I typically train my clients. My philosophy is this: you pay for the gym membership, you can use a treadmill and the weight circuit anytime you want. If you pay EXTRA for me as your trainer, well I'm taking you out of that comfort zone and pushing you to do something different. For me personally, more functional training and less simply putting in the miles has made a HUGE difference in my fitness level and running speed. I am lucky if I hit 20 miles a week, and despite the low mileage, recently took 11 minutes off of my half marathon time.

I've known about CrossFit forever. I've wanted to join in for about half that time. I'm not exactly sure what took me so long, but about two weeks ago, before this evil cold struck, I finally, *finally* made my way into a box. CrossFit Keene. And it was awesome.

So amidst all of this, I get an amazing invitation from Reebok and FitFluential to visit the Reebok headquarters in Canton, Massachusetts. For those of you who don't know, Reebok has partnered with Crossfit in a long term contract as they set out to be the face of fitness. Reebok is 100% committed to CrossFit, its athletes and community, and thus, has built the most epic of Crossfit boxes (the term for the building one does crossfit in) of all time. And suddenly I had an invitation to visit.
Geeked.

Reebok was gracious enough to send a couple of awesome outfits before hand (including their crossfit gear, which I adore, review to come soon) and some Real-Flex transition sneakers. So decked in my Friday best, I made the quick drive down to Canton to the headquarters.

Right from the get-go I fell in love with Reebok, because they have a track that goes around the building, *AND* roaming wild turkeys. Big ones. And signs on the wall like this:

What's not to love about a place like that?

Now I hate to admit it, but previous to this visit, when I thought of Reebok I thought of this:

Fitness. Step class. Classic white sneakers, probably with Velcro. And most likely some sort of leotard.

In our introduction to Reebok and where the brand is headed these days I realized that the focus of Reebok has not changed over the years. They are still committed to being the face of fitness. Except these days, fitness looks more like this:

Say it with me now: bada$$. Check it out:

So after our quick intro to the brand, the above motivational video and this one below that seriously makes me want to drop and knock out 10 burpees (credit to Kelly Olexa for this one) we headed to the box.

The box was AMAZING. I may be a newbie to crossfit but I'm no stranger to gyms, and the equipment in this facility, and the facility in general, was just unreal.

Austin Malleolo, head coach at Reebok Crossfit ONE

We met with some of the Reebok Crossfit ONE coaches, including Austin Malleolo (top finisher in the 2010 & 20111 CrossFit Games), Caleb Diebolt, and Lindsey Johnson. Austin briefly gave us a CrossFit background (check out, What is CrossFit?) and gave us a rundown of our WOD.

3 rounds for time:
200 m relay (400 m total)
45 KettleBell Swings
24 pullups
(done with a partner).

After a bunch of demos (where I was told nicely that my posture sucks and my squat form needs some serious work. New coach Tim here in Keene pointed it out again this morning, haha) we got down to business.

poor guy was trying so hard to teach my to tuck my pelvis in and flatten my back. Who knew I was such a slow learner...

Cheering on my partner Nicole (photo credit K. Olexa)

patiently working on my swing form (photo credit K. Olexa)

It was a quick, fun workout (to be honest, after being sick for a few weeks my fitness level is seriously lacking, so yeah, the 200 m sprints pretty much killed me. Sadly.) And after thanking our coaches, we, in typical social media-blogger fashion, took a ton of photos. It's what we do.

So, a ton of you have tweeted or commented asking me about crossfit or saying that you are wanting to try it.

Do it.

Seriously. I considered myself "in good shape". I could drop and run a decent time half marathon right now. Heck, I could even make it through a marathon if I had to. I can do real pushups. I can do 2 unassisted pullups. My BMI and body fat are in check and healthy. CrossFit, however, has shown me that I am weak. I have great endurance, but I am not fit. And I aspire to be strong.

I love that you can get in a killer workout in a short time. I love that you compete against yourself, push yourself to do better every time. I love that it's not the same thing every day. Again, I'm still new at this, so I can't profess my undying love for it quite yet, but I'm certainly at the lust phase. I want more.

And I'm incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to train under the watchful eye of some of the worlds best CrossFit athletes in such an amazing facility. I wonder if Reebok will let me move in?

Stay tuned for part 2...where we learn about footwear, the direction of Reebok apparel, and the moment when I realize that I do NOT shake my booty as well as Beyonce...or even relatively close.

The Sport of Fitness Has Arrived...

2012-05-11T22:35:00.000-04:00

Just a preview of a blog post to come....today was epic. Thank you Reebok!

Tough vs. the Evil Immune System

2012-05-09T09:59:00.000-04:00

Which is tougher:

Crawling and sloshing your way through 12 + miles of muddy obstacles, like swimming through ice water , tearing your knees and hands up on rough gravel, and diving through electric live wires?

OR

NOT doing the above said crazy obstacle run, getting bloody, electrocuted, and suffer near hypothermia?

I vote B. Not willingly putting myself through such torture was the more difficult task.

Since you keep asking, here's the official press release: I did not run the Tough Mudder. And I'm not too thrilled about it. A nasty cold that has taken up what feels like permanent residence in my lungs (same one I wrote about over a week ago) combined with the urging of a choice few who thankfully keep my best interests in mind...even when I don't...sidelined me from the big race I'd had my sights set on for months. An awesome bright orange sweatband and battle stories to brag about for life, or walking pneumonia and/or hypothermia? It was a tough call. No really, I'm serious, up until the last minute, even coughing uncontrollably and remnants of a possible fever, I still had a hard time saying no.

But I did it. I benched myself. I guess I'm growing up after all...rational decisions and that sort of responsible junk.

oh yeah, that's an immune system killer right there
(photo credit: Tough Mudder facebook)

*sigh*
All of this has been a real eye opener to me about two things:

1) I am a giant, whiny, baby about missing a race. Particularly this race. My apologies to the people who have listened to me the past 72 hours. It's really kind of pathetic how bummed I got about missing it. You'd think I just found out there was no such thing as the tooth fairy.

2) For being a "health and fitness professional"...I do not take very good care of myself. Sure I work out for hours every day, but I also often thrive on junk food, drink a little too much beer and not enough water, and seemingly do not see the importance in regular and plentiful sleep. It's not pretty my friends.
As I get older (and 30 is NOT old, just for the record. Just old-ER) it seems my body is less likely to roll with the punches of my chaotic life as well as it used to. These days, it seems to put up a fight when I start demanding more and giving less. Yet these days, my plans are oh so much grander than just surviving another night out on the town and making it to work on time the next morning, raging hangover aside. Nope, these days, a little cold picked up from my kids at the gym child watch can quickly escalate to a 12 day torture session when I insist upon not sleeping, subbing for every spin class I can get my hands on, and convincing myself that I'm "well enough" to try and take on a tempo run. And some lifting. And forget to hydrate. And thus miss races of epic proportions.
You get the idea.

So now what? Now I hope that this has been a giant slap in the face of my goals and what I need to do to achieve them. Easy to say today, as I sit here next to a box of Kleenex, a giant water bottle full of "emergen-C", and some really sore glute muscles because a mere 75 squats kicked my butt yesterday (in other words, my fitness level TANKED over the last two weeks, despite all of those spin classes). But what about next week, when hopefully I feel 100% back to normal? Do I remember how crappy these last 12 days felt not just physically but emotionally, or do I revert back to my 5 hour energy and crunchwrap supreme ways?

I feel my body scolding me and using the mom voice, and maybe even shaking a finger at me, as it says "I hope this taught you a lesson young lady." I hang my head in shame. Lesson learned...I am not invincible. My super-mom cape only has so much super-power. Especially with my career choices...both fitness professional and mom of two crazy little kids...it's imperative that I stay healthy. And as far as my training goes, I feel an urgent, new sense of focus.

So what are my goals?

1) June: Pack Mondadnock 10 miler
2) July: New England Tough Mudder #2 . I want redemption.
3) August: TARC Summer Classic 50 Miler
4)September: Spartan Beast. Actually, the Spartan ULTRA Beast if they will let me in.

Bring it on Summer. I've got my emergen-C and I'm not afraid to use it.

Newbies.

2012-05-01T13:18:00.000-04:00

I'm convinced that New England germs are much more harsh than the happy, sunny viruses we carry down south. Perhaps it's the long, cold winters they have to endure up here that make them more grizzly and vicious. Perhaps it's the fact that we are all holed up indoors spreading germs as quickly as water cooler gossip. Whatever the case may be, the fact is I've been sick more times this winter than I have in the last decade combined.

For a lack of a more eloquent term: it sucks.

But in always trying to see the positive in everything, I'll just focus on the fact that my immune system is undergoing some sort of boot camp training this year, and will hopefully be up to par for next year's battle.

In the meantime, however...I've lost my voice.

Yes, a killer cold that seems to not improve as the days pass, just...change symptoms. Fever one day, body aches the next, a cough the third day, and today: no voice. This morning, I was subbing for another instructor for a beginner spinning class. And since it's virtually impossible to find a sub for a sub with just a few hours notice, I went in regardless of the cold-voice-status. I filled in for this same class last week, and had 5 participants. So I figured, I'd go in, apologize for my croaky, raspy, barely understandable (and sometimes not even audible) voice, and we'd have a nice, small, beginner class.

Imagine my surprise when I walk into the room and the class is FULL. 13? 15? I can't remember. And almost ALL of them were first timers. Let's add to that we just moved into a brand new room. The speakers were tripping me out because the instructor bike sits BEHIND them....and I have a head cold. I couldn't hear anything.

I stumbled, and I mean STUMBLED my way through class. I was sweating bullets...was it the lack of airflow, the smaller quarters, or the fever? Probably mostly the fever. And when it was all over, multiple people came up and thanked me , but I could not help but feel like an ass.

Yeah I said it, an ass.

There's something sacred about teaching beginners in a fitness class. Go ahead and laugh at the seemingly ridiculousness of what I just said...but now listen. Those of us who absolutely LOVE to exercise all day, every day, start to fall apart if we miss a day, are very few and far between. The rest of the world, well they simply don't love it. Heck, I'm pretty sure most don't even like to exercise a little, and so they simply...don't.

2 out of every 3 American adults are overweight.

1 in 3 are considered obese.

I know you hear the term "epidemic" thrown around but this is truly a sad, desperate situation.

Now, clearly I am not single handily battling the obesity epidemic in my beginner cycling class today, but the point is this: people are typically intimidated by gyms, intimidated at the thought of working out...and terrified of trying new things. I hate to think that someone finally gathered the courage to step outside of their comfort zone, try something new, and were met head on by Heather's hot mess of a cycling class, only to swear it off for LIFE.

Which brings me to the point of this whole post (and it's not that I feel like a jerk for ruining spin or the fact that I couldn't read this post out loud right now if my life depended on it). The point is, we are all responsible for helping facilitate this change and get our society MOVING. I can't tell you how many classes I've gone to, how many group runs or races I've shown up to, where an instructor or seasoned regular has turned their nose up at or seemed inconvenienced by a newbie. Come on you guys. You NEVER know whose life you may change in that very moment, by either taking a few moments to welcome and/or help out that new person. You also never know who you may send straight back to the couch, embarrassed or ashamed because they couldn't figure out how to work the treadmill, and you huffed about "New Years resolutionists" (OK I'm a few months behind on this post, but you catch my drift, right?)

Make friends. Share the fitness love. Lead by example and inspire others everywhere you go. And that my friends, is your Heather PSA for the day. I'm off this soapbox, till next time...over and out.

Time, is never on my side...

2012-04-20T14:51:00.006-04:00

I suck at time management. Let's just put that out there.

I'm a procrastinator by nature, I can't sit still for even short periods of time, and I am very easily distracted.

Which is why this blogging thing has gotten the best of me lately.

I remember a time when I could go for one measly run around the neighborhood and then write a long, compelling post about the freedom of the run. The joy of pounding the pavement for a whopping 2.9 miles. How 250 yards in a swimming pool would get the best of me every single time. Ah the glory days.  I'd write and write and write, and then read about everyone else's adventures with envy, as I typically spent most nights glued to my computer screen, avoiding homework. I won't lie, I was kind of miserable. But these days, EVERYTHING is different.   There's work. And the kids. And a brand new state with new people and this great, big, beautiful outdoors that I simply can not get enough of. Running, working out, clients, projects, laundry, errands, and a bazillion open ended "MOMMY!?" questions per day that I clearly never have the right answer for (because they never, ever end).

So now at this point in my life, it baffles my mind how some people are able to squeeze in killer workouts, a life (work, family and/or social), and blog posts on a daily, sometimes twice, schedule. I'll admit, I'm a tad jealous. Sure, it bums me out that I can't seem to find the time...or the creative motivation...to keep this blog updated with the chaos of my life these days. I feel like a jerk that the top of my dresser is COVERED in awesome running/outdoor gear that I owe companies/PR firms all raving reviews for.   And for the record, that giant pile and these looming deadlines is the sole reason why I've yet to be able to take that big leap from this being a "hobby" (I dislike that word...pastime? Leisure blog? Amusement? That might be most fitting.) to a profitable part time job, like so many of my fellow fitness bloggers.  The opportunities I have been given already because of this blog have been amazing, I am forever grateful. Sometimes I wonder how many MORE opportunities are out there, if only I could get my act together.

Oh but the deadlines, they are my nemesis.

So just today as I was stressing out about yet another review I'm incredibly late on, I had a huge revelation.   The glass is half full or it is half empty, and you are the only one who decides how to look at it. So you know what? It doesn't disappoint me for one second that the chaos of my current life is keeping me so busy that I can't find the time to write. Because at the end of the day, I'd much rather be out there living life, rather than reading or dreaming about it.   I'm one lucky girl.

Life is short, my friends. It is also one big adventure just waiting to happen. Log off the computer and go live it :)

And when the snow flies and I'm trapped indoors once again, your incessant Heather rambling will continue. But until then, bare with me...I'm busy. Living.

Marathon training for the single mom:

2012-04-18T08:17:00.003-04:00

Which is the lesser of the three evils:

8 miles on a treadmill
pro: I don't need to get anyone dressed or leave the house
con: 8 miles on a treadmill...

8 miles on the 1/12 of a mile track (96 laps)
pro: I can vary my pace naturally as I run; child watch at the gym = peace and quiet for mom!
con: 96 laps can make you dizzy...and seriously piss your ITband off with all of those turns...

8 miles pushing 100+ lbs of jogging stroller with two kids who are not likely to sit still for more than a mile?
pro: Outside. Fresh air.
con: If you are a gambler, you'd put your money on the fact that we likely won't make it 8 miles before someone has to pee, and/or escapes the stroller, or I'm refereeing a preschool version of an MMA match.

So again, I ask you, which is the lesser of the three evils?

Discuss.

(chances are good I'll be done with the run before I read the comments, but I found this predicament somewhat hysterical as I deeply contemplated my options this morning. Runners...we are a special bunch. And by special, I clearly mean crazy...)

Run for your LIVES!!!

2012-03-29T10:42:00.011-04:00

In my quest to do anything and everything and anything that does NOT resemble normal road racing this year, I stumbled across this ridiculousness:

Run For Your Lives.

Yes, not only do you have to face the traditional obstacles, mud, and chaos of a typical mud run...but now you have to run from zombies trying to eat your brains (or steal your flags, same thing). I'm not even joking. This is a very real event.

It goes like this: racers, wearing a flag football-like belt with three flags, must make strategic choices to find the quickest route to the finish line with at least one flag to complete the race as a "survivor". But what makes this even MORE of a challenge? (besides the obvious...blood thirsty zombies...) The website FAQ's state (and scare me with) the following:

talk about some inpromteau speed work...

"There will be a start line, and a finish line, but what happens in between is up to you. There are multiple routes to reach the finish. Choose wisely, or your 5k might turn into a 10k.

(uh oh...anyone else remember that time I got LOST on the trail marathon?)

Use speed, strategy and your intact brains to make it to the FINISH LINE “alive” with at least ONE FLAG INTACT (or a health bonus pack). If you finish with zero health flags, this means the zombies have successfully transformed you into the “undead”; your time will be recorded, but you will not be eligible for awards."

Got that? It doesn't matter how fast you are, you simply can not win this race unless you can avoid the zombies. And it appears, they are EVERYWHERE.

"Be. Aggressive. B-E Aggressive! (and don't get eaten!)"

Survivors and newly-created “zombies” – those who finish without flags – will be able to celebrate following the event at the Apocalypse Party, which willfeature live, local entertainment, music, vendors, food, beverages, and of course, zombies.

What's not to love about that? (says the girl who can't even bring herself to go to Halloween haunted houses/forests/whatever because I'm such a pansy).

Yes, May 5th, my brave little non-runner-but-totally-a-bad-a$$-zombie-destroyer sister and I will be running the "Run For Your Lives" event in Boston. (and Bostonians...they opened SUNDAY waves as well! Check it out before it sells out!) I'm excited. And somewhat terrified. And utterly concerned for little sister, as she is either going to have to a) hear me scream like a pansy the entire 3.1 miles, or b) get left in the DUST as I sprint to safety, out of fear of fake-zombies.

I can't wait :)

The inaugural race launched in Darlington, Md., last October with more than 10,000 participants and spectators. So for 2012 Run For Your Lives expanded apocalyptic race locations and dates to include:

uhh...are those...INTESTINES???

Indianapolis – June 23, 2012

Seattle/Portland – Aug. 4, 2012
Pittsburgh – Sept. 1, 2012

San Diego/Los Angeles – Oct. 20, 2012

Baltimore – Oct. 27, 2012

Austin – Dec.15, 2012

So how many of you crazy kids are going to join me? Check out www.runforyourlives.com to find the nearest race near you or to register today!

Have any of you run from zombies? Already a survivor of the zombie apocalypse? Brains intact?
I'd love to hear your race experience!

Good after-nuun!

2012-03-27T13:45:00.002-04:00

Nuun. I hear it's pronounced "noon" and not "none". Or at least in my head, that's how I've been saying it, so let's go with it. Anyway, I've heard of the nuun. I've tasted the nuun. But it wasn't until I was recently contacted by the good people at nuun with a review opportunity that I *actually* took the time to learn a little bit more about it.

So now that you are all sitting here saying "noon/none" in your head, let's learn together, shall we?

Hydration. It's a very important, and sometimes tricky subject for endurance athletes (and athletes in general). Without getting into a full blown exercise physiology lecture, I think we can all assume that dehydration is typically a bad thing, especially in the middle of a race or a training run (alternatively, over hydration with a lack of electrolytes, or hyponatremia, is equally as bad. Just ask my sister!) Our bodies need to stay balanced as far as electrolytes and hydration are concerned, and when we are working hard and sweating buckets, this balance is easily lost.

Nuun are these tiny tabs (think alka-seltzer) that are packed with electrolytes and flavor. You drop them into your water bottle . According to Nuun, the special formulation of electrolytes helps increase the amount of water that’s absorbed into the blood stream. That means more of the water you drink is actually used to hydrate you instead of being eliminated because the electrolyte balance wasn’t right. Dehydration in athletes can cause fatigue, headaches, decreased coordination, and muscle cramping. NUUN contains the ideal balance of essential electrolytes including: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium for optimal water absorption into your bloodstream, minimizing the risk of dehydration symptoms. Each tablet contains about 7-8 calories.

I was sent two tubes of nuun, one lemon-lime and one strawberry lemonade to test out. Here's what I thought

Taste: one of those tricky things. While I'm hanging out at home watching the latest episode of Dancing With the Stars (my mom's fault), nuun is alright. When I'm sweating bullets and working my butt of with some plyometrics or a tempo run? Nuun tastes AMAZING. So much more satisfying than just water alone. It's available in 11 different flavors, so everyone can find SOMETHING they enjoy.

Convenience: one tiny tube has 12 tablets. You can toss it in your gym bag, or your car (I actually have a tube in my glove compartment, haha), or your purse, or your man purse (I'm not judging!) and make a bottle full of electrolyte goodness whenever you want

nuun's all-natural line, U-Hydration

My *only* complaint is that I'm not a huge fan of artificial sweetners, and nuun does contain sorbitol. So I'm hoping to try their other line, U Natural Hydration, which contains NO sugars OR artificial sweetneres.

But does it WORK? Good question. Nuun is *not* an energy source, so I can sit here and say "I felt so much stronger/faster/etc!". But I can tell you this, I felt hydrated. No post workout headaches (sometimes I just about kill myself with those damn burpees). No stomach issues. So will I use it for those long summer runs where electrolytes and hydration are key? Absolutely.

Want to give it a try? You can buy nuun from their online store, or use the store locator to find a retailer near you that carries nuun. At about $6 for a tube (or, 50 cents per drink, way cheaper than a gatorade!) it's worth a try! Check them out on facebook or tweet them (tell them RunFasterMommy sent you!) to learn more and connect!

*Note, the samples of nuun were provided to me for review at no cost, however, all opinions stated in this review are that of my own.*

One Simple Word

2012-03-23T10:33:00.000-04:00

Forward: I asked Jen from Miles, Muscles, & Mommyhood to write a guest post for me. And this is what she sent me. Not gonna lie, I shed a few tears. OK a lot of tears. I'm truly honored and humbled. Jen has not only had the most AMAZING transformation from overweight to an incredible athlete, but has inspired me along the way. I dream of being half the athlete she is! Rock on with your bad self Jen, I'm so proud of you and amazed at your determination! Can't wait to see you cross that 140.6 finish line!

It has long been a belief of mine that everything happens for a reason. Good or bad, it is hard to understand the why’s and how’s but given enough time, somehow those reasons are revealed.
About 3 years ago I had no idea how a simple word would transform my life and my future.

So let’s back up to the Fall of 2008- I had just given birth to my daughter Lola and I had stumbled across an ad for a site called Cafe Mom. I was a new Mommy and had lots of questions about all of it, so I thought that this would be a good site for me to explore. I had just left my job to stay home, I had no “day time” circle of friends and I was trying to figure out this thing called “Mommyhood” and trying to get myself healthy at the same time. I was overweight (about 250+lbs) and had made a commitment to myself to get healthy and fit for my daughter. All I wanted was to be a positive role model for her. I was literally starting my journey with baby steps. I was learning about nutrition, general exercise and I had a goal to be a runner- A “real” runner (whatever that means).

Through the forums on Cafe Mom I discovered a couple groups focused on healthy living and running-one of those groups was Running Mom’s (which Heather owned). The image of the Mommy pushing the little tot in the jogging stroller resonated with me so I applied and joined the group. There were so many women from all over the country, everyone at various fitness levels and doing all kinds of different things! From local 5k’s to Ultramarathons...but we all shared one common bond-A love of running (or in my case, learning to love running).

As the months passed, I got to know these ladies virtually. They were motivating and always there with positive words of encouragement or advice. I learned so much and they got to witness my physical transformation from overweight to a healthy weight. I started entering races and got to share my joy with these other Mom’s who “got it”. 14 months after I started, I had lost 100lbs and running became my passion. I surrounded myself with positive people and found comfort in my little group of online friends at Cafe Mom.

As the months passed, I got more and more into running and weight training. We would coordinate fun little challenges online and I was learning to push myself harder and harder.
My goal of becoming a runner was a reality, I had changed my body, my mind and my self-esteem. Who would have thought a simple group of other Mom’s could have helped me to achieve all of my goals?? As far as I knew, the sky was the limit and I could not wait to see what was next on my running adventures!

Then one day, Heather posted a topic that would forever change the direction of my life and my fitness-

TRIATHLON

I had recently learned about this crazy sport of triathlon (swimming then biking then running) and had secretly thought someday but Heather’s enthusiasm about the sport prompted ME to forget about SOMEDAY and make it TODAY.
No excuses!

I knew of a local “all women’s” triathlon and decided that would be a great way to start! I did not know that this race sells out in less than 10 minutes and I would not be able to race it that year. I put my dream of a triathlon on hold but decided that I would volunteer at the race and plan to make the following year “my race”.

But that little word triathlon kept finding a way into my mind-it was like this force I could not escape! I started reading about the sport and absorbing everything I could about triathlon.

I only had a mountain bike, not one of those fancy race bikes and I had a surfing wetsuit from my years of surfing (clueless that there was a difference-there is!) so why not start training now?
I did not say anything to my friends or family quite yet-I felt like I needed to keep this sacred and safe for the time being. I quietly started riding my mountain bike and checked to see if my old wetsuit would fit. I volunteered at that Tri for a Cure race and I was overwhelmed at it all. So many fancy bikes, swimming - biking - running!! These ladies seemed so fast but it was SOO awesome and I could not wait until it was MY turn.

While at the gym one day, a friend mentioned that she signed up for a triathlon that would take place literally in my “backyard”. I knew this was it!! This was the race I meant to do!!

I immediately went home and registered for the race-The Mainiac Sprint Triathlon- ¼ mile ocean swim, a 14 mile bike ride all along the ocean’s edge and then a 3.1 mile run through the beautiful beachfront streets! Then I freaked out a little bit...

I knew nothing about transition, what to wear or how to strip off my wetsuit!! The weeks passed and I relied on the group of friends online who had actually done a triathlon for advice and encouragement. I still remember to this day how much transition scared me and the neat little picture that Heather posted for me so I could see how she set up her stuff.

The race was fantastic and much to my surprise, I placed second in my age group at my first race. More importantly though, I discovered something that touched me so deeply on an emotional level. I found myself that day-I found my “something” that I had been yearning for, that thing that challenged me on so many levels and left me feeling euphoric, proud and strong. No other finish line had ever made me feel quite like that...

I have since completed many triathlons from sprint distance to half ironman distance. This year I continue to chase my triathlon dreams as a member of the Rev 3 Team. 2013 will be the year of the BIG DANCE, meaning I will complete the 140.6 mile journey they refer to as Ironman.

And it all started with one person and one little word.

As you can see, one person can have a huge impact on another without even knowing it.

I have never had the chance to meet Heather face to face and shake her hand....Ahhh, no shaking hands, I’d hug her! She probably does not even know it but she has given one of the best gifts I have ever given-the gift of being able to find something I am passionate about, something that makes my soul sing and pushes me to limits that I continue to crash through on a daily basis.

Triathlon has taught me that I am stronger than I ever thought possible. It has brought amazing people into my life and it continues to give to me as much as I put into it.

And it all started with one simple word.

So, thank you Heather. Thank you for being a cheerleader, a friend, a run coach and the #1 inspiration behind helping me find my JOY.

Be sure to follow Jen at her blog, Miles, Muscles, & Mommyhood!

What is Spartan Tough? You'll Know at the Finish Line...

2012-03-22T21:01:00.004-04:00

There was a time a few years back when I stressed myself out over setting PR's left and right. I wanted a Boston Qualifying time, and I wanted it so bad that I burnt myself out on the imbalance between the "want" and the "having enough time to train properly". Could it be done as a mom of two young ones, who at the time was working and going to school full time? Sure. For me, however, I'm pretty sure it would have landed me in the hospital...with either stress fractures or a mental breakdown, take your pick.

Around that time I gave up on the super fast dreams (for the time being) and instead fell in love with running again. With having FUN, which for me, is what this is all about.

Enter the mud-obstacle runs.

I LOVE a challenge, and I also love laughing my butt off as I'm chest deep in a swamp, unable to move my legs because they are so ridiculously stuck in the mud at the bottom of said swamp. There is something so rewarding (and hysterical) about facing obstacles you never DREAMED of taking on (like climbing over 8 foot walls or leaping flaming logs for fun! Each mud/obstacle race I do gets more and more challenging...and significantly more fun. That's why this year I've decided to tackle one of the craziest ones yet:

The Spartan Beast.

I'm sure you've heard of the Spartan Race. (If you haven't, click that link. Or better yet, watch THIS VIDEO for a mega dose of Spartan inspiration) They describe themselves as "pure primitive craziness that you’ll never forget!" Last year, my Running Partner in Crime and I ran the Carolina Super Spartan, and I will attest that it was indeed crazy, and I will never forget it. The Spartan race series has 4 levels of events that take place across the country. You can tackle a Spartan Sprint (3+ miles), a Super Spartan (8+ miles), the Spartan Beast (10-12 miles) and the Death Race, a ridiculous 48+ hour event only for the true bada$$ Spartans. Seriously , you know it has to be a race of epic proportions when the website is called, I kid you not, www.youmaydie.com .

What obstacles will you encounter at a Spartan race? Mighty good question! The answer: they aren't telling. From the website: "You will get no course map to inspect. There is fire, mud, water, barbed wire, and occasionally Hell on Earth. There WILL be obstacles to catch you off guard. Curve balls, so to speak. Get over it. We’re here to rip you from your comfort zone. If you need a road map for each step of the way, then maybe this race isn’t for you. "
The Spartan Race community's goal is to get you off the couch and throw you into some chaos. They offer daily workouts, weekly newsletters, and inspiring blogs to help you get to the finish line. While the race may seem incredibly intimidating and tough, the idea behind the Spartan community is that we can ALL overcome obstacles (literally and figuratively, if I can get over those walls you can too!) to achieve what we set our minds to. The Spartan races were created with the idea that working out does not have to be torturous, and instead can be fun, if only you approach it with the right mind set. While it is certainly not an EASY walk in the park, Spartan races have a 99% finishing rate. If you believe it, you CAN do it!

So, who is joining me, and over 300,000 other participants running a Spartan Race this year? Check out The Spartan Race online to see what races are coming to your area, and to register! Or to learn more, visit their FAQ page for all of the details.

Push yourself. Step outside of your comfort zone. See what you are made of. BE a SPARTAN.
AROOOOO!

2012 Quincy Half Marathon

2012-03-20T09:35:00.002-04:00

Quincy Half Marathon 3/18/12

chip time: 1:40:42 (PR by almost 11 minutes!)

247/1426 overall finishers

I showed up to this race with my game face on. I had decided in my mind that there was absolutely no way I wasn't going to PR. I was physically strong, I was mentally ready. All that was left was hoping the running stars aligned as far as weather, course, and unforeseen things like stomach issues, etc.

But let's back up. The night before I drove down to Mass to stay with the awesome Colleen Fit Bee, who lives about 20 minutes from the start (I myself, about 2 hours without traffic). She was a wonderful hostess. I slept well the night before the race. I ate my pre-race breakfast (always a Chocolate Mint Cliff Builder's bar and an energy drink. Hey, it works for me). We drove out to Quincy High School to pick up our bibs (small race, just over 1400 finishers), use indoor, flushing bathrooms (score!) and wait around in the heated gym/cafeteria. It was a little chilly and windy at the start, but the sun was out.

Oddly, I never felt nervous before the race. I was just ready to run in every sense of the word.

The horn sounded marking the start of the race, and run is exactly what I did.

mile 1 - 8:12
mile 2 - 7:36
mile 3 - 7:46
mile 4 -7:40

The first mile was my slowest as I settled into my pace and out from behind some slower runners. Mile 2 & 3 were hard. They are almost always the hardest miles of any distance race for me, as my body is shocked into the idea that yeah, we are going for a long run. I had gone into this race hoping for a 1:49:00, an average pace of 8:18. But a pace in the mid 7's felt alright, so I stuck with it. I didn't feel like I was overreaching, my breathing was steady and my legs felt good, but I did worry if I was going out too fast. Around mile 4 I saw Colleen and told her I was trying to bank as much time as I could.

mile 5 - 7:37
mile 6 - 7:55
mile 7 - 7:40
mile 8 - 7:37

The course was absolutely BEAUTIFUL. There wasn't a cloud in the sky, and the route went right along the ocean. I am a surfer girl through and through, but there is something so different about the New England coastline. But beauty aside, one of the pitfalls of running right next to the shore is the headwind. Around mile 5 we hit a huge hill (the first real hill) in a small neighborhood, did a complete turn around, went back down another hill, and bam, the headwinds hit. It was at this point the voices started to creep in. You know, the "voices" that say things like "this sucks. This is actually really hard. You should slow down so you don't completely die. It's not your fault there are headwinds. It just wasn't meant to be today..."

I told the voices to shut the hell up, and powered forward.

It was also at this point that I would like to file my one and ONLY complaint with this race: parts of it were NOT closed off to traffic. Not only did a car come within inches of me, but I watched as a car FLEW past and literally grazed Colleen, a good 50 feet ahead of me. Seriously if she swung her arm slightly she would have bounced it off of their mirror. It was ridiculous, and it was coming from both directions (and so were the runners). I get that you can't close off traffic 100%, but at least put up some sort of barriers or bright orange traffic cones even, to signal which lane is for runners and which is for traffic.

mile 9 - 7:49
mile 10 - 7:49
mile 11 - 8:02
mile 12 - 8:00
mile 13 - 7:14

Once I hit mile 9 I knew I was basically 2/3 of the way done, it was no longer a matter of saving energy for the end. This was the end. I just had to hang in there.

But sneaky Quincy half marathon saved all of the hills for the last 1/3 of the race.

My legs burned on those darn hills. I did my best to maintain whatever kind of pace I could, and was CERTAIN to catch up with the down hills. God didn't give me these long legs to shuffle down hills, I hammered down them as fast as I could. It was around mile 10 that I started doing the math. You know, if I run _____ pace for the next 3.1 miles I can finish in x:xx:xx. Anyone who has tried to do math at this point of a race knows it's NOT easy. Something about the blood being diverted from your brain to your legs, lungs, and heart and converting pace to overall finishing minutes/seconds...needless to say it's not easy, but it is certainly distracting.

I dug deep. I thought of all of the things the past few days, weeks, months, year that have hurt me, and I thought of how much easier this physical pain was. Heck, I welcomed it. I thought of how hard I have been training in the gym, how much stronger I have become. I am not weak. I would not give up. I rounded a corner to see one of the best surprises ever: a downhill to the finish line. I put everything I had left into my legs and I ran, hard. There was one point, maybe 100 yards from the finish, where I thought, I'm either going to pass out right here or I am going to finish strong. Adrenaline took over, and I crossed the finish line.

not me. But the finish downhill. I swear it felt steeper...haha

11 minute PR. 1:40:24. And you know what my first thought was? If I didn't take that extra water break to fiddle with my GPS, I could have had a 1:39.

Is there no cure for this madness?

No really, I was ecstatic. Proud. Not just for my finishing time, but for the fact that I never once gave up on myself, something I used to do all too often.

I finally found some of my friends only to be bummed to find out they both took DNF's. Proud of them for listening to their bodies though, so they could run another day and not sustain any serious injuries. And proud of another for setting a PR herself :)

So there you go. Quincy in a nutshell. Would I run this race again? Absolutely. Great course, beautiful town, awesome town/spectator support, great organization.

Now to focus on the next big goal: my first sub-4-hour marathon, Vermont City Marathon in May....to be continued!

How to save a life...

2012-03-19T08:08:00.002-04:00

6 months ago I sat on a hotel room floor, crying my eyes out as someone who "loved" me told me that running was going to ruin my life.

I was informed that I was going to lose everything and everyone important to me, and that no one would ever love me if I didn't give it up. I believe the words were "you'll end up with a bunch of race medals and one night stands." And besides, it wasn't going to get me anywhere. It's not like I would ever win or anything.

At that time, my self esteem had taken so many hits & cheap shots I didn't know what to believe anymore. I hated life, I hated myself, and the one thing I sought comfort in was apparently the thing that was "ruining" me (and for what it's worth, I was lucky if I logged 20 miles a week). I had dark thoughts I never imagined thinking running through my head.

I was lost and broken, in so many ways.

When I first left, 6 months ago, I was numb. Almost daily, my father would look at me, typically sitting on the couch completely unresponsive, and say "time for you to go for a run. Now. GO." And so I would. And when I ran, I was still numb, but thanks to the endorphin rush, I would at least come back with a smile on my face.

As the months passed, the running and the working out progressed. Eventually, I had to leave the "zombie" phase and face the reality of my situation. There were times (still occasionally are) when the pain was too much to bear, and so I'd run. Or lift. Or burpee until I couldn't see straight. And when my lungs were screaming and my legs were burning and my body physically hurt, it made it somehow easier to face the pain in my heart and my head. And when I was finally able to face that emotional pain, I could process it, work through it, and begin to move on.

Which brings me to this new chapter.

The past 6 months have taught me that I'm stronger than I've ever imagined. I'm capable of so much more than I dreamed of. That life can knock me down, things can feel totally hopeless, but I'm beginning to realize that I *will* get back up. The ever popular adage of "this too shall pass", as well as "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" ring true in my life daily.

But most importantly, bottom line, I've learned that life truly is an amazing, beautiful, blessing. And for that, I am incredibly thankful for the pain. Life certainly isn't easy, but it is most certainly good, and I'm not sure I would appreciate it as much as I do if it were not for seeing and feeling the bad.

I know that I may have come to this conclusion with other outlets, just as many others do. Therapy. Prescription drugs. Faith (though that one has played a huge role). A number of possibilities. But me? I got there by running.

Yesterday, I ran my fastest half marathon, by a LONG shot. And every single time that tiny voice would creep up and try to tell me to slow down, tell me this was too hard, tell me to doubt myself, I was able to laugh it off and keep going. It may sound silly to those who have never been there, but those who have will know what I mean when I say crossing that finish line was one of the most empowering moments of my life to FINALLY squash those voices. I am "good enough".

I'm realizing that while I am only human, and I am vulnerable, I am also strong. I am worthy. I am capable. I am beautiful. I can endure. I don't need others to validate me, or to make me complete. I can be happy...with me. Am I 100% there yet? Of course not. Every day is a learning experience. And I am realizing SO much of this because I run. And I've never felt happier.

So quite frankly, you were wrong my friend. Running won't ruin me.

Running saved my life.

My new ink, dedicated to my 3 true loves. Rowen (R on the left), Kain (K on the right), and "the run".

Game Face

2012-03-15T12:09:00.005-04:00

A little over a week ago, on a whim and a case of wander-lust, I registered for the Half of Quincy half marathon. A few New England friends were running, it was close to home, and I have been itching to actually race a half marathon for a while now. As race day approaches this weekend, I feel myself, for the first time in years, putting my game face back on.

In the non-stop exercise science experiment that is myself, we will see how this race goes. I have not been running distance. I've put in a few 13 milers in the last few months, but no serious mileage, other than maybe a daily 2-3 miler. I have, however, hit the plyometrics and weights hard. I've made the plyo box my b*tch. Burpees are the pain I can't get enough of. If I can't fatigue my muscles to the point of them shaking at least 5 times a week I just don't feel right. It started as a coping mechanism (and I'll admit, sometimes continues to be) for all of the crazy emotions I've run through the last few months. I've learned that the worst thing you can do is hold the feelings and pain in. But for me, it's easier to process and "feel" everything while I'm also feeling my lungs burn and my legs ache. Healthy? Not quite sure. Could certainly be worse. And it is kind of funny when I'm hammering through a hill in a spin class, coming to some profound realization, only to realize everyone else is 30 seconds into recovery/water break. Whoops.

Excuse the "endorphins are my therapy" tangent. Back to the point. I'm physically stronger than I've ever been, though endurance has not been my focus. And thus, I want a PR. A sub 1:50. The principle of specificity says I'm going about this all wrong. The crossfit people claim long distance running is overrated (or something like that). This certainly isn't my first rodeo, my legs are more than capable of 13.1 miles, even on a bad day.

So, is a PR possible? Only time will tell.

T-minus-3 days until I find out.

Yesterday I ran myself into the ground after probably the 5th day in a row of two (sometimes three) a day workouts. Nothing like not being able to keep your eyes open....or make it up a flight of stairs...at 9:00 pm. My body is tapping out, thus taper (can we call it that?) time has begun. Water, water, water, clean foods, and some easy miles.

And focus.

I want this. Bad. Half the battle in this game is mental. And I've come a long way...

Naked!

2012-03-13T09:46:00.003-04:00

So as I've mentioned a time or two around these parts, I've *still* not yet read "born to run" (and I'll say again, sorry Christoper McDougall), the book that seems to be the tipping point of causing people to ditch their traditional sneakers and buy a shiny new pair of five fingers. At the YMCA where I work, at almost any given time of day you can find *someone* in those ridiculous looking things (don't get me wrong, I'm not hating on the VFF's, they just make me giggle).

I'm hesitant to use the word "trend", because clearly we were all born sans-shoes since the beginning of time, and barefoot *is* the way nature intended us to be. Even some famous athletes have been running barefoot since before I was born. But regardless, when this more recent "trend" of barefeoot running came to be so popular, I was smack dab in the middle of working on my bachelors degree in exercise and sport science. So I did what any good student would do: research.

And I liked what I read. It made sense. Barefoot running is more biomechanically sound. Sneakers impede natural movement. And when you start to mess with mother nature, you can get hurt. Shins, ankles, knees, hips, lower back, the dreaded ITband...and on and on. Now of course, there are always exceptions, don't get me wrong. But for the most part, "au-natural" seems to be where it's at.

And so I personally decided to transition to more minimal footwear a few years back. Personally, I went the route of Nike Frees (I ran a gamut of models, since they seem to change them EVERY TIME I need a new pair) then Saucony Kinvaras, and even Avia Bolt III racing flats. And for me, it worked. The transition to a mid foot strike took some time and mental effort, but it happened. Shin pain was forever a thing of the past.

I was content.

But recently however, in my new status as "gym rat" (partially by default of working 30 hours a week in a really awesome gym, the other part by choice, because I'm digging all of this lifting) I've been thinking more and more about going even more "barefoot". Let me tell you, there is something scary about attempting the 42" plyo box with clunky sneakers in the way. So I certainly wasn't going to go foot-naked. But the toe shoes...I couldn't bring myself to do it. I know, I know, VFF's are awesome, toe splaying is good, yaddi yaddi ya. I just kept finding myself hesitant to make that leap.

And then I stumbled upon this post on the wonderful world of facebook. I've been out of the new-shoe loop for awhile, so I wasn't surprised that I hadn't heard of the Merrell Barefoot line. ZERO heel drop shoes, *with* the super flexible Vibram sole, and no crazy toes.

I needed a pair almost like I needed sleep and water (I was lacking on both that day).

I instantly face-booked our local shoe guru Ted from Ted's Shoe & Sport to ask if he carried these. The answer was yes, and by the end of that day, I was the proud owner of a shiny pink and purple (excuse me, marine/mulberry) Merrell Pace Gloves.

excuse the dirty soles, I've already put them to work :)

And while I'm certainly not going out to put any serious mileage on them (I'll be running this weekend's Quincy Historic Half Marathon in more traditional shoes), I will say the pace gloves rank right up there with sliced bread. You know, as in the "the greatest thing invented since..." They are so incredibly comfortable it truly is almost like wearing nothing at all. I find myself leaping up the stairs like a gazelle. Plyo box jumps? No problem. Even the dreaded burpee feels easier, as NOTHING is inhibiting my natural movement. I've worn them just about everywhere. In fact, I think I need a pair for the gym, a pair for running, and a pair for everything else...like grocery shopping and kid wrangling.

I'll do a more in-depth review on the Merrell Pace Glove when I put a few more miles/jumps/etc in them. But for now, I just wanted to share my lust for these new shoes. For what it's worth, this post was not sponsored by anyone. I just really, really love these shoes and had to share. (you can learn more about Merrell barefoot shoes AND the benefits of barefoot running here. ) So stay tuned for part 2...

But in the meantime, I want to know:
what are your thoughts on barefoot running?

click photo for more pictures/info

How Tough are You?

2012-03-05T14:52:00.003-05:00

I am a glutton for punishment, there is no doubt about it. If it involves running, and I'm likely to injure myself, for some reason I'm always the first to say "YES! Let's go!" *insert eyeball roll...at myself...here*

So when my new running friends here in New Hampshire invited me to be a part of their Tough Mudder team, I didn't even think twice before saying yes. And then I remembered the live electric wires. And shots of hot sauce rumored to be the mystery obstacle at one race. And whatever the heck this nonsense is:

Ice cube jello wrestling? I'm really not sure. It looks horrible. I think I'm terrified.

I seriously can't wait!

So you may have heard of other mud runs. It seems over the last few years the mud run/obstacle course insanity has taken over. Apparently, just "running" is no longer enough for us endurance freaks. There are plenty of GOOD mud runs, and FUN ones out there for all ages and abilities. But Tough Mudder is rumored to be, well, umm... tough. Not something you just show up to on a whim. A grueling 10-12 mile trail run with over 20 military-style obstacles (rumor has it that US Marine Corps participants say that the Tough Mudder is just as hard, if not harder, than USMC basic training). Don't believe me? Check out these pictures:

Warrior Dash doesn't make you outrun T-Rex...

10,000 volts of live electric wires anyone?

And because we are racing in Vermont.....snow

Wanna hear more? Here are some Tough Mudder stats for you:

• Designed by British Special Forces, Tough Mudder tests strength, stamina, mental grit and camaraderie. Tough Mudder believes marathon running is boring and would rather test your all-around mettle than your ability to run in a straight line. (Disagree with the marathon being boring, TM friends, but I'll humor you, for this chaos DOES look sickly fun)

• Tough Mudder is not a race, but a challenge. Participants are not timed on the course. The event cannot be completed alone – it requires teamwork and the help of other participants.

• 80% of participants complete the course as part of a team.

• On average, only 78% of participants finish the course.

• Average finishing time is 2.5 hours, with the fastest finishing at 1.5 hours.

• In 2010, Tough Mudder held three events. In 2011 it will hold 14 events and in 2012, will expand internationally, holding a total of 27 events across the US, Canada, UK and Australia.

Sound like a fun time yet? In addition to the goal of aiming to replace the Ironman as the ultimate endurance event on the planet (really? Can you even compare the two? Maybe I can sucker Macca onto my team, and he can let us know) , Tough Mudder has raised close to 3 MILLION dollars for the Wounded Warrior Project. I love a race with a bigger purpose behind it!

Yesterday marked 9 weeks until Tough Mudder New England in Mt Snow VT. My team and I met for our first practice. We ran 4 miles of trails, on the snow, first mile? Straight uphill. It was a fun challenge for sure, but I think next time we may need to randomly position some people in the woods to pelt ice cubes and water balloons at our heads as we intermittently stop the run to climb trees. Just an idea.

This race is going to be ridiculous. I can't wait. Are you in?

2012 Myrtle Beach Half Marathon

2012-03-04T23:06:00.000-05:00

So. Myrtle Beach. As I've mentioned probably every year since I've been blogging, I've had a Myrtle Beach half/full marathon streak going for quite sometime. In fact, MB 1/2 was my very first organized race back in 2005. This year, however, with the move 1,000 miles North, I figured the streak would broken.

That is, until my ever trusty RPIC (running partner in crime) stepped in. When the possibility of the boys traveling down to SC to visit their dad coincidentally the same weekend as the race arose...Hope took things into her own hands. She texted me something along the lines of "we are racing", and next thing I know I got a registration confirmation email. I was in. She's truly the best.

So, the boys, one of my good friend,s and I were loaded into the car to make the drive to SC the day before the race.

I'll have you know I set a new PR for this race: least hours of sleep before a half marathon.

That's right, after hitting traffic in every major city between Keene NH and Myrtle Beach, SC, we finally arrived and checked into our hotel sometime after 3:00 am the morning before the race. RPIC/Hope was concerned with my well being and asked if I needed to be running...when I should probably sleeping. The answer was yes, of course I should run. Like I said, 2012 would mark the unofficial 8th year I've participated in the Myrtle Beach half/full marathon weekend (unofficial only because 2010 was snowed out. Though I was here and I was registered, I didn't get word that half the runners would show up at the start and run the race ANYWAY..so I stayed home). Plus, I was bound and determined to help pace her to a PR that morning, and I was NOT going to disappoint.

I think I slept about an hour...maybe. I was jacked up on a couple of 5 hour energy shots (turns out it doesn't work in multiples, 3x5 hour energy does not keep you awake for 15 hours. Go figure), a very long drive, and lots of emotion as it was the first time I have been back to Myrtle Beach since I left 5 months ago. Hope came and picked me up from the hotel, and to be quite honest with you, I don't remember much else about the pre-race. I dropped off a Garmin to my friend's husband who was leading a pace group, ate about 1/4 of a Cliff Builder bar, and next thing you know, we were running.

skirt self portrait

I may be somewhat biased, but the weather for the Myrtle Beach Marathon is almost always perfect. High 50's to low 60's, and in the 8 years I've run (with the exception of the ~~great blizzard~~ 3 inches of 2010) sunny. So the weather for the race was perfect. And of course, because Hope and I revert to 2nd grade girls (what are you going to wear race day? I dunno, what are YOU going to wear race day? Let's match!) during races, we had our cute matching Running Skirts outfits on. Which made for quite the entertaining 13.1 miles as we heard tons of people chit chatting about the skirts as we passed. Like walking advertisements, I tell you. I should have handed out buisiness cards for running skirts.

So to make 13.1 miles short, let me tell you this much: Hope is one bad-a$$ running mother. Illiotibial band pain (the dreaded running ITB syndrome) started in for her around mile 3.5 and DID NOT LET UP. We spent the last 10 miles of the race getting from one medical tent to the next so she could slather some muscle rub/pain reliever into her knee. I pushed as much as I could, keeping her on pace while not being too evil since she really was injured and not being a pansy (It's a fine line we crazy athletes walk).

I saw lots of long lost Myrtle friends. It was such a rush to hear people yell my name...probably because hardly anyone knew I was coming to town to run. Have I mentioned lately how much I LOVE the running community? So supportive, and always a friend to be found at a race. The scenery was beautiful (I love the new course so much more than the old one), the spectators motivating, and the signs were hysterical.

My favorite way to cruise the boulevard...

stopping mid race for photo ops...clearly I forgot about Hope's PR attempt...

The last mile was tough. Hope hit her breaking point with the ITB pain, and also hit an emotional wall. I could see it in her face, eyes, and behavior, as I've been there many times before. Part of me wanted to scream at her to MOVE because I *know* what it's like to be that close and just crash. But the other part of me didn't want to hurt her...or piss her off. I said some motivating words along the lines of "you've birthed babies and run with guns and rucksacks on your back, this is NOTHING", and even politely told some woman, who was trying to be helpful, to back up off of Hope, because though she looks like she needs someone to hold her hand right now, she's really quite fiesty. Do not touch. Haha :) But before we knew it (or what felt like an eternity to Hope's ITband) we were at the finish line. And, despite everything, Hope PR'd, big time.

Mission: Accomplished.

Hope hobbled over to the med tent for some ice, while I took on the duty of getting post race snacks. People gave me dirty looks as I gathered enough food for the two of us, especially as I started dropping things I couldn't carry. I told one guy I was really hungry, smiled, and moved on. Haha. After a post race snack of greek yogurt and bananas, we were able to see one of our favorite people & running moms ever, Christine, cross the finish line as a pacer for the full marathon a little while later. Of course, she left all of the people she was pacing in the dust, but finished right on schedule at 3:05. Not her fault if the boys can't keep up ;)

Another successful Myrtle Beach half marathon in the books. Until next year my friends...

Thirty.

2012-03-01T10:05:00.001-05:00

Would it be cliche to quote Forest Gump on a running blog? Because as I sit here to write this, all I can think of is the quote (and read it in the Gump voice): "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get."

Ahhh Forest's mama's words ring true in my life more than ever. It seems as of late, "planning" the path of my life has been a futile attempt. Or a disaster, take your pick. But somehow at the end of the day, even though nothing has worked out the way I planned, I still wake up every morning with a smile on my face, ready to face the new day. Which leads me to believe that the only way to survive, the only way to truly be happy, is to just LIVE. Take each day, each hour, each minute as it comes. Count your blessings. Thank God everyday for all that you DO have. Life really is amazing.

I'm not one that is afraid of growing older. Tomorrow marks the big 3-0, an age that many of my twenty-something peers seem to dread. I remember my 20th birthday like it was yesterday (though, thankfully it wasn't or I'd have a mega hangover right now.) But I digress: at 20 years old I imagined that the next decade would be full of doing what you are "supposed" to do in life. You know, career, marriage, mortgage on a dream home, white picket fences, kids, mini van and soccer games, the whole shabang. By the time 30 rolled around, I'd have life all figured out, and be planning my way towards retirement already. Hahaha. So young and, well, stupid my thought process was. Clearly, I haven't quite gotten to most of those things on the list, and quite honestly, I still feel like I'm just getting started.

There was a moment last week when it hit me, and I wondered if I should feel like a failure for not having my proverbial "sh*t" together by now. But the more I thought about it, the more I thought that was a load of crap. Because instead of all of the things I "thought" I'd have checked off the life-to-do-list by now, I've added more than I'd ever dreamed of.

Ten years ago I never imagined I'd be sitting here writing to thousands of people who take the time out of their day to hear what I have to ramble about this time, never mind that most of these strangers are amazing athletes. Ten years ago you'd have to bribe me with something pretty intense...like a bottle of vodka and some Dominoes pizza in order for me to set foot in the gym. Today, that aforementioned career is *IN* a gym, sharing my enthusiasm for fitness (no bribes needed) and helping others become the best they can be. Ten years ago I remember my roommate asking me to run one, just one maybe quarter mile lap around the apartments on campus with her, and I thought it was horrific. Today, I've got 15 half marathons, 6 full marathons, and countless shorter distance races under my belt...because I LOVE to run. I never could have imagined the opportunities that have come my way, the people I've met, the trips I've taken, from simply doing what I love, networking with people who love the same thing, and following my dreams. Things have not always been perfect, but they've been pretty darn amazing.

In ten years I've loved, I've lost. I've succeeded, I've failed. I've cried happy tears as I brought life into this world, and cried heartbroken tears as I've watched friends leave this world. I've felt on top of the world and I've been humbled as I hit rock bottom. I've learned life lessons the hard way, and I've learned I have great people in my life to fall back on. I've felt hopeless, and I've found God. I've seen the worst in people, and best of all, I've learned how amazing and loving human beings *truly* are. I couldn't have planned any of this if I tried...and I'm not sure I would even want to try. Because as a wise Beatle once said, "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans" (John Lennon). You never know who will walk into your life and when. You never know what opportunities will come your way if you just believe in yourself and take your chances. You can never know. You just have to LIVE.

Nope, I'm not sad to see the past decade go. Instead I'm excited to see what's next. Bring it on thirties...I know the best is yet to come .

Philippians 4:13 -- "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

cha cha cha chia! Running Food

2012-02-13T08:49:00.005-05:00

Confession #1: I'm probably one of the only runners left on earth who has NOT yet read "Born to Run" by Chris McDougall. You know, the one about the Tarahumara tribe who runs a bajillion miles a day barefoot, fueled by their chia seeds (or something like that)? It's on my book shelf...I just haven't gotten to it yet. Sorry Mr. McDougall, it's nothing personal. Just the life of a crazy running mom. One day I'll get to it, I swear.

Confession #2: I don't eat as well as I should, or as well as the people who know me as a fitness health freak probably *think* I do. Heck, just last night Twitter suggested I follow Hostess Snack cakes and I got a little giddy inside thinking about cupcakes and ding dongs, I won't lie.

I'm trying to make a change. And like any lifestyle change, slow and steady is the way to go. Everyday I try to incorporate more and more healthy items and less and less junk food, though I will cave in to the occasional Taco Bell and not feel (too) guilty about it.

But I am also a picky eater and there are some things I just DO NOT like...one of the big ones being seafood. I mean, I'll eat it occasionally. Fish and I do not loathe each other, it's just not one of my all time favorites. Fish however, are a huge source of those awesome omega fats that we all need. So I turn to chia seeds. Most people have never even heard of these little guys, and the look on their faces when I say yes, it is INDEED the same seeds used to grow chia pets is almost always priceless.

Chia is an itty bitty little seed that is high in fiber, omega 3,'s 6's and 9's (in the correct ratio your body needs), antioxidants, and vitamin C. It has 16% of your daily value of calcium, plus boron and magnesium, which help your bones absorb the calcium. It can help lower cholesterol, increase energy levels, level blood sugar, induce weight loss and aid intestinal regularity (woo!) And the best part is that its' all natural, a plant, not manufactured supplements. So if you are into eating as natural and clean as possible, it's a great addition to your diet.

When I first started eating chia, I just bought whatever I could find. But like anything else, you get what you pay for. That's why I was excited to find the brand "Running Food" chia.

Now, I'll be honest with you, it's hard to review the taste of chia, because frankly, I can't taste it. I mix it in with things like yogurt, smoothies, salads, etc and I really do not even notice it's there. So I'm not going to tell you that "Running Food chia is the best thing I've ever tasted!". But I will tell you WHY I will continue to choose their brand over other chia:

- Chia is Micro-Milled , a process that doesn't apply any crushing pressure or heat that could degrade the nutritional value of the chia.

- Running Food is a raw power food, a complete protein, is gluten free, Vegan, Kosher, and GMO free. The equipment is used ONLY to mill chia, so no chance of cross contamination.

- It's packaged and milled in New York (go USA!) Running Food works directly with fifth generation chia farmers in Bolivia. Running Food is completely traceable from the farmers fields, to their customers hands. No junk or mystery food!

- They love mother earth. Packaging is environmentally friendly, and they use 100% renewable energy sources to produce all of their products.

Now, let's go back to confession #1, the whole deal with the Tarahumara and chia. How can chia help you as a runner? Let's review. Actually, let me just cut and paste what Running Food has to say from their website (they say it better than me and the kids are starting to wrestle with the dogs)

Endurance: Protein is essential for sustaining energy during lost distance events. Running Food is loaded with easy to digest proteins. Chia has two times the protein of any other grain or seed, including soy! The way your body digests chia seeds naturally helps you sustain energy. Running Food mixes with water and your stomach juices, forming a gel that creates a barrier between the carbohydrates and your digestive enzymes. Therefore, the carbohydrates digest at a slower even rate, keeping your energy levels constant.

Hyrdation: Maintaining hydration is key during any endurance event. The way your body digests chia seeds naturally helps you maintain hydration. Running food holds seven times its weight in water, therefore eating chia helps you level out your water intake and retain your electrolyte balance.

Recovery: Protein and antioxidants are crucial for recovery. Running food is packed with both, and it contains the richest source of omega 3's, 6's and 9's of any commercially available source. Plus, the omega fatty acids are plant based. Plant based omegas are easier for your body to absorb than manufactured omegas.

So there you go. Nothing like a sports physiology/nutrition lesson first thing on a Monday morning!

Running Food brand chia offers a number of ways to get your daily chia fix, from whole chia seeds, to micro milled chia, pure chia oil, and even chia oil soft gels (GOOD BYE stinky fish oil supplements!) So go check them out at www.runningfood.com and tell them Run Faster Mommy sent you !

QUESTION OF THE DAY: Have you ever tried Chia? Is it a staple in your diet?

2012-02-11T09:38:00.002-05:00

The winner of the Pro Nutrients giveaway:

Congrats Megan !!! Send me an email at heathergannoe @ gmail.com to claim your prize!

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend, and when you are running today or tomorrow, remember to run for Sherry Arnold, a fellow running mom who was recently abducted and presumably killed while out for her run. RIP Sherry, you will never be forgotten, and so many prayers going out to your family and loved ones! Be safe out there you guys!!!