Marathon Training

I thought I would post an email that I sent to my husband's cousin about my marathon training tips. She is a new runner and considering doing her first marathon in Chicago this October. And if you are in Chicago, now is the time to decide and sign up for the marathon. (since it will fill up) Here is my advice:

Hi Natalie! Sorry for the delay in emailing... I just got back from a run and remembered our conversation. My sister and I have followed Hal Higdon's running guides for a 10k, 1/2 marathon, 25k, and marathons. (so, in my experience, I highly recommend his books)

"Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide"
http://www.amazon.com/Marathon-Ultimate-Training-Hal-Higdon/dp/1594861994/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1234562714&sr=8-1

and

"Hal Higdon's How to Train ..."
http://www.amazon.com/Hal-Higdons-How-Train-Schedules/dp/0875963528/ref=pd_bbs_sr_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1234562714&sr=8-4

You also might want to check out Jeff Galloway's walk-run method. (I think you run for 8 minutes and walk for 1 minute for the entire marathon)
I have "Marathon, You Can Do It" by Jeff Galloway.
http://www.amazon.com/Marathon-You-Can-Jeff-Galloway/dp/0936070250/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1234563046&sr=1-2

Other helpful hints:
buy good socks and shoes (go to a running store)

put aquaphor on your feet and other areas (nipples, etc) before a long run

Superfeet insoles are great

Do a practice run - On one of your last long runs, wear the same outfit/socks/shoes that you plan on wearing for the race. Also, eat what you would the night before and the morning of the marathon. And trim your toe nails. I know this might sound weird, but then you at least know if something is going to bother you during the actual marathon. (I have never lost a toe nail or had a blister :) )

I hope all of this info is helpful!
Good Luck!!

Lindsay

Running in the winter

5 days ago I went running in a t-shirt and capri pants... Yesterday, I went running in pants, hat, mittens, 2 shirts, and a jacket. I thought I would share my running wardrobe:

Summer/gym:

Nike capri

cotton t-shirts (my husband's)

dry-fit shirts (I like target brand- I find cheap shirts are just as good as name brand)

Winter:

Adidas 3 stripe pants

dry-fit turtleneck (mine is from Target)

t-shirt

Running coat (this is where you should invest in a good jacket - make sure to get a breathable jacket - I tried a north face shell and it didn't breath - let's just say it would be dripping with sweat after I took it off)

hat (I use Pearl Izumi that has a pony tail hole)

gloves/mittens (I use the black cheap gloves from target)

(socks, sports bra, and shoes are the same for all seasons)

The Human Race (Chicago)

I decided at the last minute to sign up for the 10k Nike Human Race. I hadn't ran a 10k since my last 10k in May and wanted to see if I could still finish. (keep in mind I only run 3-4 miles a few times a week - but I did finish)

3 other reasons I ran:

1. proceeds went to charity

2. I liked the race shirt

3. Fall Out Boy played in Soldier field after the race

Running, again...

I forgot to mention in the previous post that I did in fact sign up for the 5th3rd River Bank 10k Run in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I have not ran more than 5 miles in a year, but I am hoping to get in more mileage in the next 2 weeks. (meaning I will run 5 miles twice) Wish me luck, because I will need it!

Running in the rain

Yesterday, I set out to run 4 miles and in the first 2 minutes it started to rain. So I changed my mind and only ran 3 miles. I was also reminded why I should never run in cotton capri pants... they kept on falling down the entire time. I must have looked strange running with the rain in my eyes and holding up my pants.

These nike capri pants are the best to workout in because they stay up and are comfortable. I also want to get these groove pants from lululemon athletica, but they cost $90.00 and I can't justify spending that much on workout pants. I have seen them featured in In Style, Lucky, and Shape. The store will hem the pants for free to get the length you want. (which works out well for me because I am 5'7" and most regular pants are not long enough with flat shoes.

On another note, I want to also mention my beloved running shoes Mizuno Nirvana. I am a cult follower with each new edition and have had a dozen pair in the past 4 years. And I have never had a blister! I usually buy them at Fleet Feet on Wells Street. Check out their new store!! (they carry Stella McCartney Adidas workout clothing)

Chicago marathon 2008

I have been debating on running the 2008 Chicago Marathon !?!?!? I feel like maybe I should get in better running shape and I need to decide soon because it fills up fast. (And I could be having a child in the next few years) Besides, I miss reading my pal Hal Higdon's book on running. (I do own an autographed copy) I don't want to do it alone... let me know if you are interested!

Run, Forest, Run

Girls on the Run

I am participating in a Girls on the Run Wondergirl 5K event in Chicago on June 7th. I am a buddy runner and will be running with a girl through North Park Covenant Church. (I hope I can keep up with her!!) I have wanted to get involved in this charity and I hope to help with more events. If anyone is interested, sign up here.