Group Run #1

Did you know that less than 5% of the population will ever complete a half marathon or marathon?

Today was my first group run with Miracles in Motion (p.s. I'm still in DIRE need of sponsors) and it was fun. Originally, we were supposed to start at 6 am but when I arrived at the park, aside from Coach Rick, I was the only one there.We did a group stretch and hit the trail at Kawains Park at about 6:30.

I was able to complete the 4 miles scheduled today in 30 minutes! Although, my legs were tight this morning I had to work through it. I was foolish and ran 3 miles on Friday and also did yoga (nuts!!!) While I'm no Flo Jo, I'm excited to see the progress that I will make over the next 6 months.

When we finished our run, there was a man from the Runner's Den there to talk with us about somethings. He was there to talk to us about what the magazines tell us we need and what we actually need. Here is what he recommended:

1. PROPER RUNNING SHOES
• a good shoe that provides great support rather than looks stylish.
2. HYDRATION AND NUTRITION 
• water, water, water. If you are going longer than 90 minutes take water with you. If less, hydrate before and after. 
• Use flue bars, gels, or other forms of energy past 90 minutes and every 40 minutes thereafter.
3. PROTECTING YOUR DANGLEY BITS: 
• Ladies:
1. A good sports bra does NOT come from Target. Protect your ladies. 
2. Never put your sports bras in the dryer. 
3. Most important, your bra should NEVER have a birthday! 
• Men: 
1. purchase shorts with lining because you don't want to wear a jock strap for 26 miles!
2. Buy laytex free band-aids and cover your nipples, so they don't bleed from your shirts rubbing them raw during a long run
4. SUN PROTECTION
• wear a hat 
• use sunscreen
5. CHAFFING GEL
• reduce your friction!!!

I hope that you find this as useful as I did.