Don't Stop Rockin' 13.1 miles

There is no doubt that it has been a long time since I have posted about anything concerning running, let alone, anything! But this past week I was inspired by a challenging race to get back on the keyboard and type!

So I am typing like there is no tomorrow!

Last Sunday, October 2, I participated in my second half marathon. It was part of the "Rock 'n' Roll" series, which are half marathon races located all around the country sponsored by the same host. They start in January of the given year and run through December, changing to a seperate venue about each month. I just learned too that there are even international races in places such as Ontario and Madrid. The "Rock 'n' Roll" mantra is a great way to pump up everyone running and makes any runner feel like a rockstar.

It sure did make me feel like one.

There is definitely something I need to learn when it comes to running half marathons... and luckily it only took me the second time around to realize it. I know I have what it takes to finish the 13.1 miles, and yet, I seem to never train properly for the big day. I guess you could say it is one of my running flaws- not being completely prepared for what I will endure.

But despite that, I did finish this half and I did it a whole 12 minutes faster! I didn't go to set any olympic records, but I did hope to leave the Dodge "Rock 'n' Roll" half marathon San Jose with a bigger pride than when I came.

As I said above, this half marathon was in the lovely city of San Jose, CA, about 1 hour south of San Francisco. While San Jose sits in the Bay Area, the climate is quite a bit different from my breezy runs through the city by the bay. San Jose actually sees 300 days of sunshine and can get rather warm in the fall months. So you can see my wariness when it came time to finding the perfect outfit for this October 2nd morning run.

No need to worry, everything worked out great. I just went the most minimalist I was comfortable with. (believe me, there are some runners that feel a sports bra and panties are the ideal apparel for a Sunday 13.1 mile jog). Well, let's just say, my pride is not there yet. I decided on shorts and a tank and was very happy with my selection.

Waiting for the race to start- I looked around and knew I wouldn't be seeing any of these people for another couple of hours. And that is when the butterflies swarmed my stomach. Having completed one half marathon already is sometimes more intimadating. Don't they always say, "ignorance is bliss".

I may have to agree with this. Only because, I knew which miles were easy, which were painful and which ones were emotional. And that can be a lot more scary than the actual race itself. But I stood up straight, plugged in my iPod and took a deep breath. There was no turning back now!

My favorite thing about running is the thinking part. You may be asking, what does running have anything to do with thinking- you move your feet one in front of the other. And yes, you are right. but, that's not the thinking I am talking about. I sometimes get my best thoughts in the middle of a run. The fact that I am exuding energy and my endorphins are raging, must make everything just fall into place. And it's usually my support system that help me keep those happy, great thinking moments flowing. My friends and family are one of the best motivators when I hit mile 6 and my knees start to ache. I just imagine their kind words and inspiring chants and somehow it makes my pain subside.

There is no greater feeling than knowing at mile 12 you have someone waiting for you to cross the finish line and that you'll see them soon.

It's weird how emotional a race can actually make you. Despite being a sensitive woman already, this half took a slightly bigger toll on me than my last. There are definitely certain stages of emotion when running a race like this, at least for me personally.

Mile 1-3 : Excitement excitement excitement. This stage is all about the pumped up feeling that you are running a race of this magnitude and that you are rocking your pace this early into it.

Mile 3-6: Positive reinforcement and happiness. At this point, you are more settled into your pace and have come to realize how long the course really is. You stay positive and know that you are almost half way.

Mile 6-9: Doubt and negativity - These are definitely the challenging miles, but are not the hardest. This is when I begin to wonder if the miles will end and if I will ever make it across that final mile marker. This is also when body parts start to go numb and you begin to wonder if your legs could move on their own.

Mile 9-12: Silence and emotions... This is usually the time when I stop listening to music and zone out. The pain has gone and the GU is working well, but you are kinda in awe that you have ran that many miles early in the morning. This is usually the time I get a little more emotional too, where I wanna hug everyone around me and I get chills when I round a corner full of cheering supporters.

Mile 12: Anger - I think mile 12 and 13 may be the hardest miles to run out of all the miles. There is something about knowing you are so close but not being there that makes me mad. I actually even swear off races all together and wonder why I get enjoyment from them. The pain usually has come back now in the form of blisters and foot pain.

Finish Line - a huge mixture of relaxation and pride. And I am usually so busy getting my heart rate down slowly and taking pictures that the true excitement of finishing comes about 30 minutes later, when I am telling my family and friends all about it. Funny enough, this is when I wanna rush to a computer and sign up for my next race!

Must be those feel good drugs!

Overall, this race was a great experience. Every race I participate in, I learn something new about myself and my body. I am really glad I pushed myself and beat my record with a time of 02:03:40. San Jose "Rock 'n' Roll" is a must to add to any runners bucket list.

My goal for the next half marathon is to break 2 hours. It's definitely possible if I get my butt into proper shape way before hand and not make that same training mistake. Who knows.. third times the charm!

Run-Sarah-Run

Big Sur = Big Success!

It seems each post made this semester get further and further apart. But I assure you, this absence of writing has had no affect on my running inspiration.

Just this past Sunday, November 14, I competed in my first half-marathon. A half-marathon is a distance of 13.1 miles and many races offer a full marathon at the same location in addition to the half. While a half-marathon is nothing to scoff at, moderate training is needed to get oneself through this challenging experience. And although there were times I had doubts, I feel this race is one of the best struggles I have endured.

The 2010 Big Sur Half-Marathon was located in Monterrey, CA, about 2 hours south of San Francisco. The majority of the race was along highway 1, overlooking the pacific coast. The weather conditions could not have been better for a early morning race and made the race that much more enjoyable. With clear views and sunshine, the ocean was a beautiful sight to see.

Going into the half-marathon, I was not as properly trained as I could have been. With the demands of college life, running was placed on the back burner, giving me ample time to lose sight of this longtime goal in my running life. With a few moderate runs of 6 miles and a few small runs of 3 miles, I walked to the start line Sunday morning thinking the worst.

Word of the wise, don't ever doubt your running ability. Regardless of the time spent up to the race, the mere fact that you are running for 2 1/2 hours straight is a feet in itself. Not to mention that you got yourself out and running which is hard for most people to do in general. I forgot this simple fact and made the race even harder before the clock even started.

Whether you are running 3 miles or 13.1, as a runner, I feel you need to go into the race positive and giving your best no matter the challenge! Once you begin running and the endorphins hit, you will be happy you left the stress at home. It does not take much to remember the confidence you had to get yourself to that race in the first place.

Unlike my previous races, the start of my half-marathon was easier, as mile marker three came and went, I put the rest of my mileage into perspective. This race allowed me to learn a lot about my body, in completely different ways than a 10K or 12K. Because you sweat so much during the 13.1 miles and lower your blood sugar count, I used GU for the first time and learned how to feed your body the necessary nutrients while keeping up your pace.

I used the GU packets at mile 3 and mile 8, allowing 15 minutes for each packet to work. (That is roughly 1.5 miles before the energy would even kick in). But did I feel the difference! My legs seemed to have a mind of their own and my speed increased about half way through the race.

Because I was running the race with some friends of mine, I did not have music, and while I thought it would be difficult, it was not as bad as I expected. My thoughts kept me company and friends and family were my inspiration to finish. It was nice to be all ears along the course because of the music and entertainment that was provided, giving runners a boost of motivation at every turn.

With each new race is a new chance for battle wounds. The runner in me likes to show off how extreme I take my running experiences, as blisters, cuts, and swelling are only the beginning of what a true runner endures . But after every race, I take great care of my feet. For they did their part to get me through the 13.1 miles strong, as should I get them through the next few weeks safe and bandaged.

Having been through a half-marathon, I have a few suggestions and recommendations for those who wish to take on the challenge and experience the feeling for themselves:

1. Invest in blister block, blister band aids, and athletic foot powder. Whether or not you wear socks, blisters are sometimes inevitable for some runners and these products will help prevent them as well as heal them. Rub the blister block on areas known to chaff, such as inner thighs, underarms, and feet. Many runners get wet feet due to sweat production, so lining the inside of your shoes or socks with athletic foot power will help absorb moisture and prevent chaffing. And if all else fails, the blister band aids help heal blisters of any size and prevent irritation post race lace up. While they are expensive, they are handy to have and have never left me disappointed.

2. Keep hydrated the day/night before the race. Drinking the daily recommended amount of water is something hard to keep up regularly, but pre-race day is especially important. You won't be drinking as many fluids on race morning so fueling up on water and electrolytes the night before is crucial to your body moving come start time.

3. Dress comfortably for the entire race, not just the morning. While most races start at the crack of dawn, both half-marathons and marathons go into the morning hours, resulting in sunshine and sometimes warm temperatures. The rule I go by is a mid point between the two extremes, sleeves and pants. If I wear a long sleeved on top and have my arms covered, I opt for shorts in order to expose my legs. If I wear capris and cover the majority of my legs, I throw on a tee or tank in order to let my arms breathe. It seems to have worked out so far!

4. Take advantage of the freebies along the way. At every other mile marker along the race, there would be water and Gatorade stations. There are people holding out cups for runners to casually grab while jogging by. I never really liked drinking water throughout my runs because it gave me a tummy ache, but taking the water is a definite must. From personal experience, I learned that it was best to take both a water cup and a Gatorade cup and drink half of each, throwing the rest out. While water is necessary to replenish what has been lost, the Gatorade provides electrolytes. Electrolytes are especially important on a longer run like this because they are responsible for rebuilding muscle and nerve function as well as maintaining an adequate level of pH in your blood stream.

Another nice freebie along the way was a huge paddle of Vaseline. This is a freebie that is sometimes easily forgotten and taken for granted by some runners. By the end of the race you will be happy you grabbed the jelly and gave your legs a rub down. This substance helps keeps your chaffed prone areas lubricated and free from little red bumps.

5. Eat bananas and skip the stretch. Bananas are rich in potassium and can help curtail cramps in your legs, stomach, and feet. These cramps can make a great race turn bad at any mile and it is a nice peace of mind to know you won't have to stop and stretch it out. In turn, stretching before the race is actually recommended against. It is better to warm up for 10-15 minutes before stretching any muscle. So either find the time to warm -up pre race start or forgo it all together. While this may sound silly, you don't want to stretch cold muscles, for this may pose other problems during the race.

6. If you become just as addicted to running like me, you should invest in a running belt. It is a small pouch that is cinched around your hips, allowing you to carry your cell phone, I.D., cash, and packets of GU and keep it a hands free race. If GU is forgotten, no need to worry, you can easily use honey packets from a local fast food joint or pickle juice packets. Sugar, sugar, sugar.

7. Don't forget to smile! While this is a race and a grueling 13.1 miles, don't forget that it is an experience as well and it should be a good one at that. While there will be times of discomfort and doubt, you should remember that you are already awesome for registering for the half-marathon and running it to your best ability. Plus, the pictures are always prettier with a grin. :)

After the half-marathon, I took some ibuprofen and a long nap. The soreness only lasted for a couple days and it is recommended to get back out on the road and run asap. Just take it slow. I am excited to register for my next race and hopefully beat my last half time of 2 hours and 14 minutes.

Be warned, running is addicting. And once you start, you just can't stop. Hope to see you at the start line!

run-sarah-run!

"Bridge to Bridge" is 'better to best'

It is known as one of the most beautiful runs, and after participating in the infamous "Bridge to Bridge" 12K & 7K run/walk, I now know what it is about San Francisco that attracts so many prospective residents; the 'city by the bay' may just be the MOST beautiful place to host such an event as this. The race was this past Sunday, Oct. 3, in San Francisco and sponsored the Special Olympics of Northern California.
Having been through the course, I cannot think of any reason why I should not add "Bridge to Bridge" to the top of my list of favorite runs and perhaps yours as well. There are people who travel far and wide to get the chance to gain a glimpse of the numerous landmarks along this race. Not only is the location a sight to see, but a scent to be smelled and a sensation to be felt.

Race morning started at 9:00 a.m. sharp in front of the ferry building situated at the corner of The Embarcadero and Market St. I stood there, staring up at the Oakland/San Francisco Bay Bridge, waiting with butterflies in my tummy. I became nervous for what the course had planned waiting up ahead. Luckily, I was able to share this incredible experience with my room-mate and friend Alicia Watkins; a motivated and accomplished runner herself.


BANG! The gun was fired and we were off. As I jogged along The Embarcadero, it seemed to look incredibly different from the multiple times I had been on it before. It was quiet; the streets were free from the bustling tourists and had a calming and clean look to them. As we made our way down the street I was excited to pass Pier 39, one of my favorite parts of San Francisco itself. I couldn't hear the joyous sounds of the sea lions as I would if I were inside the pier, but could not miss that potent smell as we passed the opening of the bay that they claimed as their habitat.

Shortly after, while running along what turned into Jefferson, the smell of sourdough bread wafted through the street and suddenly gave me the urge to give up running the race altogether for a nice turkey sandwich. What can I say... sourdough is a favorite of mine, not to mention freshly baked San Franciscan dough.

As the crowd began to disperse a bit more comfortably, the course continued up through Fisherman's Wharf, with a half-way mark at a slight incline through Fort Mason. The hill was short but steep, and caution should always be taken when climbing up any degree of a hill. A good tip for the descent of any downward portion of a hill: use gravity to your benefit and slow down your speed while keeping up a constant stride. This will save you energy and breath, while getting you to be in the same place, if not ahead, of where you started at the top of the hill.

While running through Fort Mason, I was blown away at how beautiful this park was. With the view of the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance and rolling lush greenery, I wished to stop and rest with a blanket and a book, for this is bliss for the student in me.

Just right after the half-way point, along the Marina, my parents stood waiting to capture the perfect picture of Alicia and I trying to recover from the first half of the 12K. With a wave and a "Woooo!" we were back off toward our destination- The GG!



I will have to say, the Marina District in SF is one of my favorites. Not only do you have the cute, multi-colored victorian houses, but they all look out toward the waterfront and have access to some of the best views of the bay and the activity on it. If there was any time during the race that kept you pushing right along, it was this stretch. With the Golden Gate Bridge almost within reach, there was no reason to stop my feet from doing what they know best: running.

As Alicia and I passed mile mark 4, our trek along the course changed terrain drastically and gave us a 'run for our money'. From pavement to gravel, it was a different sensation while running that we were not used to in Rohnert Park. The traction was difficult at times and yet made that mile go by much faster despite.

Right after that stretch of gravel, approaching mile mark 5, we could see the Golden Gate Bridge and all it's entirety stretched out right in front of us. It was huge and we were looking up at it from an angle that I have never seen. I am used to going over the bridge time and time again when traveling from my hometown to Sonoma State. But this sight was spectacular and made me jealous of all the San Francisco civilians who had access to it everyday.

I have to say that this was my favorite part of the run all together. The Golden Gate Bridge has always been a favorite bridge of mine- (I mean, I don't really know what Northern Californian does not find it beautiful.) But it is my favorite part for many other reasons as well. While running toward the barge of the bridge, the runners followed the course that ran parallel to the waterfront. The rocks that lay down below the path were splashed numerous times by the waves, bringing up bursts of bay water towards all runners. Being a water fiend myself, this picture was so calming, I could have ran forever.

Once we circled back around and headed back out from the GG bridge, we made our way through Crissy Field and back towards Park Presidio; coming up to our seventh and final mile marker. At this point I was in pain. My knees were sore and I was curious to see at what location exactly the race was due to end. While that last half mile felt long, upon hearing the cheer from other participants and friends/family, I gave it my all and came in strong across the finish line.

Exuberant, my room-mate Alicia and I congratulated each other and headed over to the festivities immediately to relish in the freebies and congratulatory celebrations that the park hosted. Alicia and I were shocked at how fast the race went and wished we could do it again just to capture the sights once more through. The day ended extremely well, the weather was perfect in the city and we both broke our past 12K time from our 'Bay to Breakers' race back in May.
After completing the race, I could not help but think about how lucky the residents of San Francisco are. For they have these awesome landmarks and beautiful scenery right in their backyard at their disposal for great runs any day of the year. I am not sure where my life may lead me in the future, but San Franciscan or not, I am coming back to run the streets of this beauty by the bay next October.

'Bridge to Bridge' 2011... watch out!

For more information on the Glide Floss, Bridge to Bridge 12K & 7K run/walk, visit http://www.bridgetobridge.com/.

run-sarah-run!

Treat your feet to a good pair of sneaks!

When the time came to get new running shoes, I have to honestly say that I was worried. I love shopping for new running shoes, but it is almost impossible to ever find a pair that works well with my feet. Sophomore year, I purchased a pair of Adidas shock absorbing running shoes that cost about $120.00, not including the additional in-soles that were pitched to me by the salesman.

I chose to purchase the shoes and at first was really loving them, but with all of my running shoes purchases, the excitement begins to wane more and more with each new run. At the time I was having running injuries and pain from over-pronating, and thought these specialty shoes would help solve that problem.

Little did I know I was wrong... apparently it is the other way around.

Over summer, my dad was reading a book titled, Born to Run (which I recommend), that intimately follows these infamous runners in central Mexico that run hundreds of miles a day. The book concentrates on barefoot running and the benefits of this up and coming phenomenon. Anyway, the book proceeded to mention Nike and their new shoe: Nike Free Run. The special thing about this shoe is the way it mimics barefoot running and the huge leads researchers have found concerning this running shoe.

Barefoot running like I said is an up and coming fad. Research shows that extra padding and shoe support has been shown to diminish one's running ability and causes more injuries than those who run without any shoes. Now I know you must be saying, "there is no way I can run on city streets shoeless", "but without padding, my feet will hurt". And yes.. complete barefoot running takes getting used to, you have to build your feet up to the texture of pavement, but padding is out and its all about being bare!

With Nike and the Free Run shoe, there is no need to worry, they seem to have runners covered. This shoe is designed in such a way that it can flex and twist multiple ways. The sole is small and cut in multiple places, allowing runners to feel the ground that they run on and have the mid sole of the foot land correctly when finishing their stride. The material helps ventilate the foots moisture and there is no tongue in order to help prevent irritation while running. The lace is on a slight asymmetrical line in order to match the foots natural movement when racing.

Check out the video for a more detailed explanation of these unique sneakers:



So, needless to say, I was in runners shock with these shoes. They seemed to be the next best thing to try and as it was, I was in need of a new pair of shoes, so I thought.... why not!

These shoes are the best shoes I have ever bought. Sometimes I just put them on because they are so comfortable. Ever since running in them, I have had no shin splints, knee pain, back aches, stiff muscles, etc. I used to be prone to shin splints and foot injuries and have had no problems with the Nike Free Run whatsoever. They come in several colors. Mine are the bright purple (as it is my favorite color) and I love that they stand out among other boring white/blue/black shoes.

Some pros and cons with the shoe.
PRO: They are intended to be worn without socks to get the best contact with the ground. They get a little stinky, but I figure it saves on laundry and washing socks.

CON: They do wear out fairly fast as they don't have much sole to them and some consumers have had to purchase a few pairs if you use them on a daily basis. Also, they are not the best shoes to wear in the rain, as the material is not waterproof.

PRO: They are supposed to increase muscle function and ability while wearing them. While using them, the Nike Free Run builds up the foots natural stamina and in turn strengthens leg and core performance, allowing you to run faster and better over time.

CON: The Nike Free Run shoe is not meant for cross training. Nike makes the Free Run shoe design in a cross training shoe specifically designed for things such as hiking, trail running and sports playing. A good rule of thumb to go by : don't engage in any activity with the Nike Free Run that you couldn't do barefoot. i.e. bike riding, basketball, or rock climbing. These shoes have been specifically designed for running and running only.

I try and suggest the Nike Free Run to anyone of my friends. I have seen tremendous results since I have used them and even completed a 10K just recently with them on my feet. The shoes are surprisingly low in price compared to some competitors such as Asics and Adidas. The Nike Free Run were $85 regular price and I believe they are now on sale for a little over $60. I don't know what I was doing before I found these shoes, because I hit the road running even more now. I am extremely tempted to go out and buy another pair, as I can't imagine my running life without them right underneath me.

When it comes to running, less is more... so go out and get some shoeless shoes.

run-sarah-run

Warning: running can become addictive

I know it has been a while since my last post...but much has happened since the epic race in the beautiful city of San Fran.

Although busy this summer, running has not left my mind. I look for more and more ways to incorporate this awesome sport into my day. After completing the Bay to Breakers run in May, I was immediately inspired to run again and registered for a 10K run in the East Bay. While I ran it alone, it was one of the most exhilarating things I have done. Being just a little over 6 miles, I had the drive to complete the entire run without any stops and hopefully beat my past average time per mile.

Crossing the finish line, with my parents cheering me on as I sprinted as fast as I could, is something that cannot be described. I felt so accomplished and proud for the amount of effort and motivation I put into that 1 hour and 2 minutes. Since then, it seems I can't get enough...

Ironically, I did not used to be a runner; in fact, I was never really good at my middle school mile in any way. But I will accept any challenge in life and for me running is a great outlet for challenging oneself. Because it can be done solo, running allows me to explore my athletic strengths and weaknesses and thrive on the bonus feel good chemicals that comes with running. Running allows me to relieve stress and get lost in deep thought, making it even more therapeutic. After training the past year, running has become a huge priority for me and with the practice comes endurance and the middle school mile doesn't look so bad anymore.

This just goes to show you that anything is possible!

With summer coming to a gradual end, dust your shoes off and get back out on the pavement. Here are a few tips to get back in the routine of running and perhaps starting to train for an event:

1. Buy a new cute running outfit. Whether it be for the chilly fall nights or last hot summer days, pick something that will make you want to get dressed and match it to your shoes. This always helps me to get out of the house and show off my mad running skills!

2. Re-load some catchy, up beat songs on your iPod. It is crucial to have a inspiring music mix to get you in the mood to even think about going for a run. Put some of your favorite summer hits on your playlist and think about those summer memories while jogging off those last few pounds from summers sticky treats.

3. Research events near you. Pick one that sounds fun and scenic. Competitor.com has a great calendar that showcases all the races happening in both Northern Cali and Southern Cali for the next two months. Pay the registration fee and perhaps a donation and you will be surprised how much more willing you will be to hit the ground running.

4. If all else fails... grab a buddy and ask if they would like to go on a walk/run with you. Support is the best thing to get back in the game and the company is never a bad thing. Running is twice as nice with your best friend.

With the fall approaching, I am very excited to complete my next race. I could not be more ready. It is in our lovely city by the bay once again and should bring some great fall weather. It is the 34th annual Glide floss, Bridge to Bridge 12K and 7K run/walk. I will be taking part in the 12K run which starts at the Bay Bridge, and runs through the waterfront, ending at the Golden Gate bridge. It is said to have some of the most beautiful views of San Francisco and I am running with eyes wide open!

I love running for a cause as well as for enjoyment purposes and this race helps support the Northern California Special Olympics. There is nothing more special than that. :)

The race is Sunday, October 3rd and if interested I highly recommend registering- it will change your view of running, I promise. I plan to go wherever my little feet take me... I hope you do the same!

run-sarah-run!

'Bay to Breakers' here I come!

As my first running test, I have decided to join my room-mates in the ever so popular Bay to Breakers 12K race in San Francisco. It is a fun 7.46 miles long and a great way to prepare for that half-marathon in the fall. While this run may feel intimidating, I hear that the majority of it is a party and many of the people there are just looking for a fun time! Throughout the race, people dress up in wild and crazy costumes and some consume alcohol as a way to really celebrate.

Either way.... I am very excited. My room-mates and I decided to dress up as the Sesame Street characters. Kendall is Zoe, Dana is Elmo, Alicia is Big Bird, and I am the good ole' Cookie Monster. We have found shirts that we decorated and designed to look just like those furry Muppets we all know and grew to love.

While I have only made it to 5 miles currently and have not been on the pavement in a while, I do not fear. You will be surprised at how much adrenaline pumps a runner up and prepares them for what they believe to be a long haul on race day.

I have started researching some great race day tips via ehow.com, for those who may have a race approaching and need some advice:

1. It is important to have everything ready for race day the night before. Set up where your clothes are and timing chip, with any additional food or papers necessary for race check-in. Tip: bring sunscreen with you and apply it as well, you never know how much sun you will soak up throughout the race.

2. Sleep is very important to get the two days before race day. (The first of those two days is especially important for a good race performance). Don't stress, just drink some fluids while you are awake and go to bed early.

3. Wake up three hours before your check-in time. Go about your normal routine and eat a light breakfast of familiar food. Don't skip out on breakfast. This is a big no-no. You will regret not eating half-way through the race. Grab for something high in carbohydrates or potassium, such as a banana, bagel, or energy bar.

4. Warm up your muscles before the actual race. Don't overdo it, but you will run better on loose muscles and you can gauge the temperature conditions better for when you get going on your race.

5.Make sure to use the rest room before the race begins, as stopping to pee will affect your overall race time. The race will not wait for you!

6. During the race, it is sometimes helpful for people to take part in drafting. Drafting is when you follow alongside a certain someone, causing yourself to keep an even pace and perhaps a more unified driven attitude while running.

7. Drink plenty of fluids. There is a wide range of sustenance, such as gels and sports drinks. Gels provide a more immediate release of carbohydrates and electrolytes, but sports drinks will do the job as well. Just don't drink too much, only drink when you are thirsty and stop drinking just before your tummy feels uncomfortable.

These are only a few of many important and helpful hints to running any type of distance race. If you are curious, I encourage you to check it our for yourself and research some of the best tips and tricks for beginners and the 'regulars'.

... hope to see you out at Bay to Breakers. If not, then perhaps we can connect at the finish line for a beer!

run-sarah-run!

Battlewounds are to be expected!

These past few weeks have been crazy. Trying to keep up with homework, running, and just remembering to eat three meals a day, can be tough at certain times throughout the semester. But for me, it helps to make exercise like a class. This will cause you to make it happen, whether or not you have time. Believe me, you will be happy you made time for it. After all, there is no point in keeping up with class work, if your health is slipping.

Over the course of three weeks, I somehow made it to 5 miles! I am not sure when it was, but one day I felt great and decided to increase my mileage. Ever since that 5 mile run, I have incorporated smaller runs in order to challenge my time and hopefully increase my stride.

Unfortunately, there are bad parts to running. The injuries! As I was almost finished with my 5 mile course, my feet were burning and I could tell that a blister would be there for me after I stopped. You just know! Not only that, but my legs began chafing. Chafing is really common with runners, especially those who tend to sweat much more. So, needless to say, there is a BIG difference with your body between 3 miles and 5.

My predictions were right. As soon as I took off my shoes, I had several disgusting blisters on the sides of my feet. They did not hurt as much as my eyes hurt to look at them.

No need to fear. Do not stop now. There are some great tricks to fix any of these body malfunctions. Target sells both blister block and chafing lotion, as well as blister Bandaides, if it is too late to prevent those nasty bubbles. Also, try using baby powder in between your thighs, it will help keep the area dry and prevent chafing. If running shorts are not your thing, you are in luck. Wearing duo-dry pants can help prevent this problem as well. Make sure to wear thick, durable socks when running long courses and you can always tape your foot if you are still having trouble.

Yes, running has its downside, but that is no reason to give in now. All the chafing, blisters, callouses, and bruises will be worth it in the end.

Besides.. my feet were never my best feature!

run-sarah-run!