Runner's World

http://www.runnersworld.com/

Hey guys! I just wanted to share with you all my favorite magazine for running: Runner's World!
Check out their website and if you are interested in starting to run, pick up an issue! It will motivate you!

Knee Strap

So for my knee pain, I decided to go with a knee brace instead of the compression sleeve for my knee. It seemed to work yesterday. It is the exact image above and it only cost 20 dollars. It was very easy to put on too. It is just a simple strap.

Carbo Load

http://www.halhigdon.com/Nancy.html

Hey guys!

Check out this link for sports nutrition. I had a big pasta dinner the night before the half-marathon for my carbo-load. The site mentions about pre-race day nerves and not being able to eat. I find this part interesting, because I woke up yesterday before the race and ending up throwing up, because of all of the nerves and emotions I was experiencing. I was a little pissed, because I got a bottled water out of the mini fridge in the hotel and ended up throwing it up. 6 Dollars down the drain... I was only able to eat a fourth of a banana before the race, but I was able to do it!

Course Map

Hey everyone! Check out the course map for the half-marathon in Vegas, I just completed! Looking back at this map, I can't believe I finished this ordeal. It went down the main strip of Vegas. It is the only day of the year that they shut down the strip completely! The starting line was right outside my hotel, Mandalay Bay, so it was nice to wake up and walk right outside to the starting line. I highly recommend this race because of the course!

Vegas is Amazing!

Wow guys!

So Las Vegas has become one of my favorite places in the world! This place is like Disney World for adults. Between gambling and free drinks (not to mention how you can walk anywhere with your drink too) I almost forgot that I came here to run a half-marathon haha! It's been a fantastic trip and I am so glad I came here. I haven't done anything crazy yet though. There is nothing where I would feel like it follow the slogan "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas"...Maybe I should go get into some trouble before my flight leaves today? :) What do you guys think?

Check out the post below of the Bellagio fountains. I saw them last night to Christmas music. It was awesome!!!

Fountain of Bellagio "Time To Say Goodbye"

ESPN 30 for 30: Into the Wind by Steve Nash & Ezra Holland

I figured I would keep the streak of inspirational videos going...

If you haven't had the chance of seeing the Terry Fox story on Espn's 30 for 30...Do So!!!

This kid decided to run across Canada to fundraise and raise awareness for cancer. He had cancer and had to have one of his legs removed. He was running across Canada with one leg.

This guy is my hero and I will be thinking about him on Sunday. There will be no complaining from me that's for sure. I will not be complaining about my legs hurting. This documentary was amazing. Thanks Steve Nash!

You CAN: Join CCFA's Team Challenge Today!

Hey guys,

I just wanted to share this with everyone. This is actually the video I watched that inspired me to do this half-marathon with Team Challenge. It has a part in there about a little kid who has Crohn's, but he is a lot worse off than me. He reminded me of myself though, because you could tell he was a fighter and he went through the daily motions of taking care of himself. Everyday is a fight and I'm going to Vegas to fight also. All the fundraising I have been doing while training is going to help find a cure for this disease. I know it will.

Hydration Belt Offers A Lot

This is the hydration belt I bought for race day. The company is called Nathan's Sports and the product is called the Speed 2. 

I bought it at Dick's and it was about $30. I was frustrated with the price at first, but it actually is a great product and it holds a perfect amount of water. I will be placing my FRS chews in the pocket in the back too for that extra energy boost. I've been strapping my ipod to the belt too which I think is more comfortable than having it on my arm. I honestly think this is the best product out there for a fair price.

Go to http://www.nathansports.com/our-products/hydrationnutrition/racespeed-series/speed-2

or simply go to Dick's to buy this product!

Here are some of it's features:

Carry up to 20 ounces of energy gel or replacement fluids. Ideal for long trips with some water availability.

No. 4611NGYSpeed 2 Data

• Molded Holsters for quick, one-handed Flask access
• Two 10 oz. (300 mL) Nutrition Flasks
• Stash pocket for small essentials
• Airmesh moisture-wicking backing
• Limited-stretch elasticized waistbelt with soft perimeter binding
• Silicone grips inside holsters prevent Flasks from popping out
• Reflective detail
• Three sizes: SM 26-32”, MED 32-36”, & LG 36-42”

Music Selections

This is first on my playlist for race day. Corny? Probably..but it is a great way to get pumped up at the starting line.

I need to start organizing my mix for race day tonight. Does anyone have any favorite artists they listen to while working out?

So far my favorites are Eminem and Lifehouse.

Knee Problem

So ever since I did my longest run two weeks ago, I have been having issues with my right knee. Whenever I sit for a long time and get up it is really tight and then when I start running it gets even worse. With race day being this weekend, I am getting nervous.

I have been icing my knee when I can and it seems to be helping, but I am considering buying a compression thing for my knee. Has anyone ran with this? Would it help and does it put any restrain on you while running?

I was looking online and found some at Dick's. There is one from Everlast that costs about $16.



I think this is definitely something to look into. Let me know what you guys think!

Running For A Cause

The idea for this blog came about when I decided to start training for a half-marathon this upcoming December. The half-marathon takes place on December 5 and it is in Vegas, baby!!! But, more importantly...I am running for a cause. 

I joined CCFA's Team Challenge a few weeks ago and I am pumped about this experience. For everyone that doesn't know...The CCFA stands for The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. As a member of Team Challenge, I am fundraising and asking for support for the continued search of a cure for these horrible diseases. 

Not only am I running for the CCFA and all of those affected by Crohn's and Colitis...I am running for me.

About 9 years ago, I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. It has been a constant struggle in my life. To read more about my story and why I am a part of Team Challenge, check out my fundraising page: http://www.active.com/donate/lv10neohio/JPrada.

I am currently in training and it has been going well so far. Throughout these next couple months of training, I will be updating my blog with posts about my training and experiences with running. I also hope to cover various running topics such as cool running products (shoes, sunglasses?) out there, diet and nutrition for athletes in training, and upcoming running events. If it's anything about running/training...You can find it here!

The more I run for a cause...the more I am becoming interested and excited about running. Hopefully this blog motivates people and provides inspiration for all. I am finding out that running speaks volumes.

Don't fall asleep while running!!

Recently my foot has been falling asleep while running long distances. It usually happens around the 3rd mile and it is really annoying to run with because my foot goes numb. I made sure my shoes are not tied to tight but does anyone have any theories on why this might happen? Any experienced runners that have dealt with this issue?

I look online for some theories out there...

First, it could be shin splints or related to sore/tight muscles in the shins and calves. Second, and probably more likely, it could be related to a nerve in the top of the foot, or the band at the bottom of the ankle that covers the point where the tendon and muscle meet (this is not related to swollen or agitated Achilles pain, which usually occurs in the lower heel where the tendon connects with the foot bone). Since the tendon can become damaged during a long run, the band works to protect it. What happens when you’re running longer (whether on a long run, or increasing your weekly mileage)? You increase the amount of blood that pumps through your muscles. This causes your muscles to expand; the band reacts by also expanding and gives space for the muscles to swell. If the band is damaged then it wont expand, creating tension that compresses the muscles and nerve in the top of your foot, causing it to go numb.

So what should you do if your foot is going numb during long runs? Massage the area around the tendon, which can be pretty painful but it’s worth it if the numbness is bothering you. A massage therapist can do this for you if it makes you queasy. I’ve read that it might also help to stretch and ice your ankle after a longer run, which is a good practice in general. Other than that, if there’s pain, or the numbness persists, I suggest seeing a sports doctor.

Check out this site. It has great topics on training and nutrition!

http://www.kathyruns.com/2008/11/numb-foot-not-just-caused-by-cold-feet/

Race Day Food!

I finally decided on my race day food. I will be eating FRS pomegranate blueberry chews to get that extra kick of energy on race day. I plan on eating one of these starburst looking things every half hour. They are delicious and they are better than gu because I actually feel like I am eating something I am s surprisingly upposed to be...not gu haha.

FRS Chews
FRS soft chews are individually wrapped and ideal for travel. No matter where you are in the afternoon simply unwrap two chews and eat, no water required. Because FRS chews are individually wrapped and compact they’re the perfect pre workout supplement. Each 30 count bag provides 15 servings.

I highly recommend them!

One Week Left of Training!!

So I know it has been awhile since I last blogged, but now that I am in my last week of training I have a lot of topics that I want to discuss.

It has gone by so fast! I never knew that I could run 2 hours straight with the amount of energy that I did. It is amazing how you can condition your body for extreme activities. I am getting so excited to go to Vegas for this half-marathon.

This week I am winding down on my runs so my legs can recover and so I have enough energy come sunday morning. The race starts at 7 am! Yikes! On race day I am going to try to wake up around 5 and eat a banana or two so I have energy going into the race. I will be in corral 12 because I am currently estimating that it will take me slightly over 2 hours to finish the race. I hope I am right!

If anyone has race day experiences that they would like to share, please do!! I could use any advice. I feel like I am not going to be able to sleep the night before..

What Happens in Vegas...Stays in Vegas Baby!

So this will be my view while running in Vegas. Has anyone been to Vegas before? Please let me know what you think about it and what I can expect. I only here good things about it!

Apparently the main strip is closed completely just for this race and they rarely close down the strip. I'm so excited! Last year I heard that they had a guy parachute right onto the starting line to begin the race...also that there were tigers and a band of guys running dressed up like Elvis! There's always live bands performing outside the restaurants and Bret Michaels will be performing live after the race. I thought I was training for a half-marathon...but it seems more like a crazy adventure! Here I come Vegas! Hopefully I survive!

Why I Keep Running...Why I Try Not to Complain...

Hey guys,

I just wanted to pass this story along that I received from my CCFA Chapter...It's a story that helped put a lot of things in perspective for me and it reminds me why I am fundraising for this cause. There are a lot of people that need help and I hope to provide any support I can...

hospital is bad news

I am 11 years old and was diagnosed with crohns on April 2nd of 2009, and diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at at a later date. I had my first flare up in October of 2008, but thought it was just the stomach bug. Then on march 17th I had another flare up, with constant bleeding like in October. On March 30th I went to the doctors, my pediatrician got worried about me and sent me to another doctor on april 2nd, my gi doctor now. The next day on april 3rd I had an endooscopy and colonoscopy,that day I was officially diagnosed with crohns. I have been taking several medicine at different times, but right now I am taking 6mp, folic acid, and iron. On February 8th this year I had to go to the hospital but was told I was coming home the next day. That turned into 2 and a half weeks later. While in the hospital, I had constant blood work, sugar checks, x-rays, and had to get a pickline put in where it gives you your nutrition. I was on complete bowel rest meaning I couldn't eat or drink anything, except have ice. My friends came to visit me, sent me cards, and texted me/called me. I constantlly cried that I was home sick, and missed my family, 3 dogs, and friends. On february 25th I was finally relased from the hospital, and was surprised to go to florida on Feb 26th but was told I couldn't anymore. My heart dropped, but instead we went April 16th til april 24th. I got a wish vacation from Starlight to go swimming with the dolphins in florida, so I am going june 24 til june30. I love animals and was ecstatic about that. The vacation is completely free for us, we dont even have to pay for gas, airfaire, or to get souvineers, or restaurants, or parks, and off course discovery cove, and seaworld are free when I go in june!

This story and others like it may be found at http://www.ccfacommunity.org/Default.aspx. Please check this out if you can...I'm trying to raise any awareness I can. Crohn's sucks...

Hemophilia Red Derby 10K Run

So I've had a tough past two weeks of training due to be worn down from illness, but I am finally getting back into things with only a month left before I fly out to Vegas. I ran yesterday morning in the freezing weather! I was a participant of the first 10K run for the Hemophilia Foundation. The race was right outside Coe Lake, so it couldn't be more convenient for me to attend. The route set up for the race is actually the path I usually run from day to day. Awesome! I wasn't really focused on speed this time around, but I was able to finish in an hour flat which is pretty good for me. There was actually and elderly man that was running with a bad leg (usually in front of me). It was amazing to see how he kept pace and was able to finish with a better time than me, even with him stopping for a water break, when I didn't have to. It just shows how years of training and experience helps form a runner. Practice makes perfect. This will definitely motivate me in this month to come. It was a nice event and there was hot soup and bagels waiting for me at the finish line!

Solo Power: Focus on breathing

So I found out while running the 10K last weekend, that sometimes I lose focus on my pace when I start trying to keep up with a group while running...wether I am talking while running or trying not to fall behind..I lose my pace and start breathing heavy.

I found this article on what to do when you lose pace with the group and find yourself alone...The article aims to get you to close the gap, but I actually like running by myself sometimes during the race. I feel like I need full mental concentration so I can breath and maintain the race at my own pace.

Check out this article on how to find that power when running solo!

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-244--13693-0,00.html

Midtown 10K- Team Challenge!!

Here are some members of Team Challenge at the Midtown Classic 10K!!!

We have been fundraising for The CCFA and running at the same time! Woo Woo!

Energy Drink For Your Feet

This is what I am currently running in. I really like these shoes and they are very comfortable. I got several compliments on them this weekend at the 10K. The bottom of the shoe really seems to absorb most of the impact when running. I have the shoe with the bright lime green on the bottom so they would stand out. For now I like them, but I might look into a different type of shoe and figure out what is the best type of shoe for my running style. The Zigs are definitely becoming very popular now though.


JUST A REMINDER: CHECK OUT MY FIRST BLOG TO SEE WHY I CHOSE THIS TOPIC! THANKS!

GUUUUUU!!!

So now that I am starting to crank up the mileage...I am looking for ways to fuel my body while running. I need an energy boost...something easy to digest while running. The team that I am training with suggested GU.

"Simple to take, simple to digest, GU Energy Gel provides just what you need for premium exercise fuel and none of the extras that slow you down. GU takes you where you want to go, fast.

Launched in 1991, the world’s first energy gel is still the most efficient sports fuel available today. GU’s carbohydrate blend delivers high-quality, easily-digested and long-lasting energy for athletes in every sport and at all levels."

A shot of fast-acting natural fructose (fruit sugar) goes straight to work building your energy levels back up while the maltodextrin is quickly absorbed and sent to your muscles. Vital electrolytes keep your blood chemistry in line and hydration levels stable. Calcium keeps your muscles humming and caffeine adds an extra kick to your power!!!

GU's website suggests that 100 calories is an ideal serving size to suck down 15 minutes before training or racing in order to top off your electrolyte and glucose stores, followed by one every 30-45 minutes along the way, washed down with a few sips of fluid.

Check out their site! They also have a blog too!  http://guenergy.com/blog/

I'm definitely excited to try this stuff...I'm thinking the best flavors would be Tri-Berry, Mandarin Orange, and Jet Blackberry...Mmmmmm

What flavors would you try???

MidTown 10K: Add it to the resume!

Hello All,

So I ran the MidTown Classic 10K today and it was beautiful weather! I ended up running with my team that is traveling to Vegas this December and it was a big success. I've never ran with other team members but it is such an uplifting experience to see your team members root you on and high five you as you run by. 

I started strong and finished strong which is really important to me. I'm glad I ran a 10K because I needed to see how I manage this type of distance in a racing environment. I definitely need to improve my time around the third and fourth mile, because that is where I started wearing down a little bit. My ankle going into the race was a little sore...I believe I have a high ankle sprain so I'm trying to work through it. Hopefully a day of rest helps and I want to emphasize the importance of stretching... especially right after your run!!! 

I finished the race in an hour and that's where I am looking to be right now. I know I can do better though and as the next couple of weeks progress I am going to try to knock off some time in my miles. The top male in this race did the 10K in a little over half my time. Crazy! 

Not only did I get my run in for the day, but I had fun doing it. There was a kegs and eggs party after the race with a live band rocking out. My favorite tune they played..."Cleveland Rocks"

Check back for images from the race! And go out and run!

Treadmill Training versus Outside Running

So the reason I was interested about reading this article was because I recently just ran outside for the first time. To my surprise it was a lot more difficult than running on the treadmill. I started my training with the treadmill so I could keep track of my milage and time so I would get a better sense of where I am at physically. When I ran outside my legs were killing me and it was a struggle to do the mileage I usually do on the treadmill. Boy...do I have a lot to work on.

Check out this cool article http://www.runningplanet.com/training/treadmill-versus-outside-running.html.. It has a lot of good information on this topic. The following are some valuable tips I took from it:

Running on the treadmill offers fitness and calorie burning benefits that are very similar to outside running. However, there are differences between free range running and treadmill running. The primary differences are the lack of wind resistance on the treadmill, the flat, unchanging surface of the treadmill deck and the effect the moving belt has on your running or walking stride.  

When you run outside you are moving over changing terrain. The slant and incline of the ground is always changing. The surface you are running over may also change. You might move from concrete to gravel or grass to asphalt. The smooth and even surface of the treadmill cannot be made rough and uneven. The main negative result of this is the lack of propreoceptive training. Proprioception is an important skill when running on the treadmill. Proprioception is basically intuitively feeling and knowing the position and motion of your body, feet, legs, arms, etc. at all times. It is being aware of all of the different actions of your running stride. This is something that, to a limited extent, you do naturally. But to maximize your level of awareness, practice consciously being aware of your position on the belt, the amount of forward lean, the position of your hips, the angle of your feet and all stages of your running stride.

When running outside, you encounter all types of uneven and unstable running surfaces. A changing surface will force your neuromuscular system to become more proprioceptive because it must make split second adjustments in order to keep your body stable and moving in the right direction. The flat and even surface of the treadmill removes this valuable training opportunity. So, if you do most or all of your workouts on the treadmill, you should practice proprioception at all times. 

All runners should concentrate on proper form when they run, whether they train on a treadmill or the road. This is especially important for new treadmill users. It is much better to perfect your form right away, rather than acquire bad running form habits that may be hard to break. Good running form is the same no matter where you train.

The most efficient running posture is one that is mostly upright and relaxed, with a slight, whole body, forward lean beginning at the ankles. You should not lean forward at the waist. Your chest should be pushed out and your shoulders back and relaxed. Avoid all tension in your upper body.

Nike iPod Tune Your Run OK GO

I definitely want to look into buying this. I know this product has been out for awhile now, but since I'm really getting into running now I think it would be sweet. I'm always looking for "that song" to pump me up while running. My favorite part is when the song starts playing for that "power boost". It's awesome how it keeps track of pace and mileage too! Crazy!

First Post: Running For A Cause

Ok...First post: The idea for this blog came about when I decided to start training for a half-marathon this upcoming December. The half-marathon takes place on December 5 and it is in Vegas, baby!!! But, more importantly...I am running for a cause.

I joined CCFA's Team Challenge a few weeks ago and I am pumped about this experience. For everyone that doesn't know...The CCFA stands for The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. As a member of Team Challenge, I am fundraising and asking for support for the continued search of a cure for these horrible diseases.

Not only am I running for the CCFA and all of those affected by Crohn's and Colitis...I am running for me.

About 9 years ago, I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. It has been a constant struggle in my life. To read more about my story and why I am a part of Team Challenge, check out my fundraising page: http://www.active.com/donate/lv10neohio/JPrada.

I am currently in training and it has been going well so far. Throughout these next couple months of training, I will be updating my blog with posts about my training and experiences with running. I also hope to cover various running topics such as cool running products (shoes, sunglasses?) out there, diet and nutrition for athletes in training, and upcoming running events. If it's anything about running/training...You can find it here!

The more I run for a cause...the more I am becoming interested and excited about running. Hopefully this blog motivates people and provides inspiration for all. I am finding out that running speaks volumes.