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.