I give up on giving in!

That's it... I cannot even think about running 13.1 miles, when three seems like an eternity. But then I am reminded of where I was just two months ago, and somehow I am brought back to reality. I give up on feeling like a failure!!

Today, my roommate Dana and I went to the old football field track to run a few miles. I have found it a nice change and getting fresh air never hurt anyone. Being two slumps on the couch, we figured we should get in a good run before showering and going about our regular lazy Friday. Little did I know... that cinnamon roll I ate for brunch was a big mistake for my running performance. Live and learn, or in this case, run and regret.

As I was making my run around lap number five, I began to wonder if I would last the next four laps and finish what I set out to do this late morning. As I pushed on, trying to get my mind off of the splitting side cramp, I wondered what is best to eat before a run of any degree.

You may be saying... well duh Sarah, a frosted, processed sugar mass the size of your head is probably not the first and only thing to exert a hard run on. ... and I have to agree, what was I thinking!

First of all, during any run, you will be exerting muscles and burning calories. It is essential to have substantial fuel and high levels of blood sugar in order to get the most out of your run, of else you will be hurting through every stride, like me.

No matter when you run, evening or morning, try to eat something an hour to 45 minutes before the actual run, allowing the food to digest, but not leave the body entirely. Carbohydrates are always a great choice, which are the classic cardio burning foods; breads, grains, and pastas are all high in carbohydrates and possibly fiber (depending on your love for whole-wheat). If food is not an option, as many of us college students are going from one thing to another and can't plan on a definite food fix, at least drink anything high in sugar and electrolytes, such as fruit juice or Gatorade.

And.. take it from me. You and your body will wish you had listened when you get out on that track, road, or trail, and are hurting because you splurged for the tempting fatty pastry.

If you do find yourself stuck on your run, half way in with a cramp, don't panic. The best thing to do is to slow down, breathe through it, and gently rub the area till it begins to wane. My awesome roomie Dana put it best when she said, "when the finish seems so far, I picture myself running at my half marathon. This pumps me back up and gives me the motivation I need to finish each lap strong."

If the mileage seems daunting and you begin to go to the dark side, turn back now! No need to worry. We have all been there. Some days have a dip here or there, but that should not affect your overall impression of your running capabilities. I will have a streak of improvement, with some runs being easier than others, and then the next day, I will be fighting just to make a mile or two.

This is what progress feels like, you just need to keep up the running mojo and you will be surprised at what you run.

Try taking a running buddy with you and talking through some of the miles, the time will fly and it gives pillow talk a whole new meaning. If talking leads you a stray, plug in a good mix and think about yourself on run day and how great of an experience this will bring. You will be surprised at what a little imagery can do to your psyche-- you may get carried away and break that three mile hump that for me seemed impossible.


So don't sweat the strain -no need to let the distance get the best of you.
You are stronger than that!

From here... it is really all downhill!

run-sarah-run!