I love running.
This is not a statement that I thought would EVER come out of my mouth. I’ve never considered myself a runner and running was always so hard for me.
I’ve always been athletic, but I felt like my athletic skill sets lent itself to something different than long distance running. I was a gymnast growing up, so my body was trained to handle and excel at short, intense bursts of movement. I mean, I can sprint with the best of them. But run more than 1.5 miles without wanting to kill myself…never.
After my long training run of 8 miles, my longest distance ever, my ideas about running had changed. There were a few things that were notable about this run.
- It was my first long run alone.
- It was so windy. Since I was running around the lake, it was even windier.
Both of those facts intimidated me, but I laced up my shoes and head out the door.
I got there and felt really good. I knew it was going to be a good run when I looked down at my Garmin and realized I had already gone over a mile and it felt like I just started.
I ran right next to the water and thoroughly enjoyed the cool breeze coming off the water. It was just so peaceful.
At mile 4, I refueled with some Powerade Gel Things. Honestly, I’m such a noob when it comes to fueling up during a run. I got some advice and decided to have about 4 or 5 of these chews at mile 4. I think it helped incredibly because the rest of the race wasn’t nearly as hard as my previous 7 mile run. Who knows what it was, but I liked the outcome.
I walked routinely throughout this run and that helped so much mentally. Physically, I didn’t feel the need to often to walk. Mentally, however, it was a lifesaver. I walked for 30 seconds to 1 minute after every mile. I liked the break it provided and it was much easier for me to wrap my mind around “just one more mile” instead of “oh holy cripes, you have 7 left.” I’ve decided that there’s no shame in walking.
I finished the 8 miles in 1:23:25 and my splits were as follows:
Mile 1: 9:43
Mile 2: 9:45
Mile 3: 10:19
Mile 4: 10:28
Mile 5: 10:55
Mile 6: 10:41
Mile 7: 10:33
Mile 8: 10:57
I’m such a stats junkie and these numbers make it so much fun for me to run.
I decided I would video my excitement once I got into my car after the run. Turns out, my excitement is shown through some crazy talk but my excitement certainly doesn’t come through on my face. I look dead…and it’s not an attractive look. Oh well, I felt great.
I learned a few things from this training run.
- Drinking a ton of water all weekend really helps.
- Fueling during a run really helps.
- Wind schmind. I owned that.
- I really like to run alone. It was nice to not think about anything and just go.
- Walking helps me mentally conquor a long run.
- It feels wonderful to work towards a goal that doesn’t involve what my body looks like…but instead what it can accomplish.
I hope everyone had a great Monday! I’ve got a really busy week..but that’s ok because it will make the week go faster and I have a very fun weekend planned.
What’s your favorite thing to fuel with midrun?
Do you incorporate walking breaks into your run?
Do you like running alone or with a friend?
{ 46 comments… read them below or add one }
I like to run alone and recently I’ve been taking a tiny break after every mile to catch my breath ( i have exercise induced asthma) and it makes it a lot easier to keep going.
Keep up the good work!
That video is so stinkin’ cute! Good for you, doll!
I couldn’t agree with you more–I love running alone. There’s just something about being able to get into your zone and focus on wherever your mind takes you. As I always say, running is cheaper than therapy! All kidding aside, running has definitely been therapeutic for me. However weak I may be feeling emotionally, powering myself through a long run reminds me how strong I really am!
My fav re-fueler is gummy bears.
As far as I can tell, they have the same stuff as those chewy things (um, sugar), and they cost a buck for a huge bag!
Melissa recently posted..I Heart Charlottesville
Great job!!!!!
I like to run alone as well, Idon’t like the pressure of feeling like I have to keep up with anyone.
As for midrun fuel, try the Clif Shot Energy Gels, that has helped me the most!
Heather recently posted..Sleep Tight
LOVE THIS POST!!! I was really beating myself up about my mini walk breaks, but what you said makes SO much sense. I would be able to go so much longer if I let myself walk for 30-60sec every mile! There should be NO shame in it….YOU GO GIRL!!! That is so awesome! I think I will give that a try on my long run this coming weekend! Tomorrow I do my 5k Route and I think if I give myself this option, it will go a lot better for me! I think I may also get some of those refueling things. When I run at the end of the day I feel WIPED out, these may help me get some pep in my step and not feel like death on lead legs!! I may just have to copy this post and attach it to my brain when I start feeling drained during my runs
Super, super post!! PS> Got you a Japanese Dark Choco bar, and some Japanese stationary for your first ‘pen pal session’ 
Congratulations! I’ve never run more than a few miles at a time…I’m not much for long distances but I love the way running helps me just forget about life.
I prefer my runs and workouts to be solo. I find that I get into a groove better without distractions.
Heather recently posted..Night Shift Hangover
Back when I was a runner (let me get out my walking cane and start lamenting that I ran uphill BOTH ways…eesh) I used to incorporate TONS of walking breaks. Definitely helped me go longer!
I’m glad you’ve got something about which you’re so passionate!! It shows and it’s so good for your mind, body and soul!
Wow, you look too good in that video to have just finished an 8 mile run! Haha. CONGRATS!! I need to start building up my distances…I think walk breaks would be a great idea to help me get there. Running is SO mental, it would probably help a lot. Awesome job on the 8 miles!
Jamie @ getalivingsense recently posted..Veronica Mars- anyone
Lisa, your mile splits are SO GOOD! And even better, one day you are going to run 10 miles, look back at this post and be amazed at how far you’ve come!! I love that you’re loving your new hobby!!
Laura recently posted..Celebrity Sighting
Congrats on the awesome run! I know that feeling well of falling in love with running after years and years of thinking I wasn’t a runner. I think 8 miles is one of my favorite distances. I like Clif Shotbloks on long runs. I ate a Gu during my half marathon last December. Don’t love the consistency, but it’s nice to not have to chew anything. For me, hydration is KEY. Especially now that it’s getting warmer outside. I don’t walk much, but every now and then I will if I feel signs of dehydration or trying to catch my breath after an incline. I typically run alone, but I like having a buddy sometimes, too!
Dorry recently posted..Indecision Vision
I love you! You are kick ass and awesome! <3
Brittany recently posted..Austin Livestrong Half-Marathon recap
Great job Lisa! I like working out alone too. It’s my “me time”.
MelissaNibbles recently posted..Do You Know The Muffin WoMan
Whohooooo – great job. Well, I don’t run so I have ZERO advice:)
YAY GIRL!! you kicked butt! i LOVE LOVE running alone too. such a free feeling!
Carrie (Moves ‘N Munchies) recently posted..The Big Carb Debate…
You just went wika wika wa! LOL When do we get to hang out???
And I am growing to love running for the same reasons. It’s so….personal. And I love that it challenges us in a way outside of appearance too. I can’t wait to do a long run and have that same exhiliration as you. I have a ways to go, but for the first time ever I see it happening. And you help inspire that because I know we both always felt the same way about running.
I’m sure I will always have to walk a bit for a mental break as well. I can see how that helps.
Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun recently posted..Self-Love Reflection- Idolizing Our Bodies
Your are hilarious! I’m so glad you love running! It is really something I struggle with. I know it’s good for me and I like going to races but I don’t really love the actual running part. Last week I just started using intervals of 4 miles running and 1 minute walking, I think it’s a life saver for me! It’s also helping me run faster, it’s the galloway method I guess. Except galloway says “not huffing and puffing during your run” I huff and puff the whole time even when I’m walking! I need to figure out something that doesn’t gross me out for fuel, I can’t do straight gu gels, and I think taking two bites of a cliff bar did’t help too much during a 12 mile run. We actually run about the same pace, except you start out way faster than I do! I start slower and work my way up=) I generally run alone, which is nice because you only worry about your pace, but I love running at the race itself, all the people around keep me motivated!
Grace recently posted..In the next 30 days…
hahahah I loooove that YouTube video! So proud of you, Lisa! Congrats!
Beth @ Beth’s Journey to Thin recently posted..Me – 1- Wind – 0
Great post – and congrats on the long run! There is definitely no shame in walking – I walk every 10 minutes and find that during races I stay at the same pace as the people who don’t take walk breaks. Plus I don’t feel as much like I’m going to run out of steam too early. Yay running! Keep it up
Kennedy @ Running After Balance recently posted..Dinner Club- A night of Pasta-bilities
Girl I was just thinking about you and was going to ask how your training was going. Sounds like you’re doing great! The firs time I ran 8 miles solo I was really nervous too. In the end, I kind of enjoyed it more oddly enough. I’ve done up to 10 solo now. Something about just being out there alone. Re-fueling is sooooo key. Once I figured that one out, long runs were so much better and so was recovery. I thought I had figured out a fuel I liked but they have started bothering my tummy. So this week I have to figure something else out (ASAP as race is 2 wks). And yes, hydrating long before that long run makes all the difference too. Good job!!!
Heather (Where’s the Beach) recently posted..12 Miles Saturday – Maybe Some Sushi Too
I LOVE this!! That is awesome, Lisa, and I’m not saying that just because I’m a runner! I’m so glad you’ve fallen in love with it….I think running (or swimming, or cycling, or whatever) is great for clearing our minds. I do some of my best thinking on runs by myself (or so I tell myself).
That’s awesome girl! My Garmin should be here today or tomorrow so I’ll need to tips on how to work that thing, haha.
Awesome run!!!
I like Clif Shotbloks but sometimes they upset my stomach. I need to buy some other stuff to try. I’ve had those gel blasts before and thought they gave really good energy but the texture weirded me out. Fueling definitely helps though.
I occasionally incorporate walk breaks. I think if I did it more often it would help with my speed but I’m always a little afraid that if I stop I won’t start back up.
I like a mixture of running with someone and running alone. It kind of depends on my mood. I still like running with YOU
I’ve never tried shotblocks, but I’m going to have to start since I’m training for a marathon now! I love running by myself b/c it is very meditative!
salah@myhealthiestlifestyle recently posted..Getting Started on My Bucket List
hahaha that 5 sec video pretty much made my morning! yes yes you are awesome! nice job!!!
i LOVE only running alone, I have tried with buddies but it just doesnt do it for me, they try to talk to you, then you get distracted. I like zoning out when I run to me and my own music and form. Its just what i like!
keep up the great work, lisa!!!
I couldn’t agree with you more, Lisa! Fabulous job getting your 8 miles in. When is the up & coming race?
I was a competitive swimmer for 13 years and running was our punishment. When I hung up swimming in college I wanted to find a way to stay fit. A friend had just completed her first half marathon & motivated me to get out there & do it too. Now I have one under my belt, and have two more on May 7th and June 4th! It is the best exercise out there; it challenges you and you can clear your mind.
I’d recommend mint chocolate gu. It tastes like candy! I usually have issues with texture when it comes to food and whatnot but I love that flavored Gu. I just ordered a 24 pack
Keep on keeping on!
Karla recently posted..Sunday Productivity
LOOK AT YOU!
haahahaha. I love that, lisa.
and I honestly haven’t tried those energy gels mid-run before, but the one time I bought them, I loved ‘em pre-run.
since I’m so used to running solo, I always really enjoy the company and distraction of conversation with a friend; however, I love being able to push myself to my limit when I run alone.
true story, while training for our first half marathon, my three friends and I shared a ziploc baggie of grapes around mile 7 (we ran 9 miles I think?). the grapes are supposed to be good fuel, but they were pretty warm and gross after 7 miles of running on the streets of VA Beach in July.
whoops!
Alyssa @ Life of bLyss recently posted..Cocktail Ring-1 Alyssa-0
Way to go, girl!! That’s so impressive. I ran a 10K and that’s the furthest I’ve ever gone. I think running is such a mental activity, and I’m just not “there” yet to tackle a long run like that. Maybe one day!
WOOP WOOP!
Love the video!
You should be so proud of yourself! You did great!!
I have upped my milage lately too- my love of running is coming back & it’s coming back strong. I think it might be the beautiful weather that is approaching…I’ve missed the Florida sun.
I actually prefer running alone as well. And I’m awful with mid-fuel for my runs- everything makes me so sick feeling- queezy stomach. But I haven’t tried those powerade gummies yet- will have to find those.
Holly recently posted..Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Muffins
I love sport beans for mid-run snacks…I can’t stand GU and the clif blocks are way too chewy…the sport beans taste like a treat to me
I love running with other people most of the time, but for speed workouts I prefer to run alone because no one is going to have the same speed goals that I do.
Stephanie @ The Cookie Battle recently posted..Eating Through the Weekend
I actually do not love running but I really, really wish I did. I feel like every time I go, I have to talk to myself about it and convince my brain that it’s really not that bad! I need to get over this hump!
Rachel @ The Avid Appetite recently posted..Lemon Blueberry Breakfast Muffins
awesome job missy!! Im getting into running now kinda too.. Well.. I want to.. I ran 2 miles consecutively on the TM yesterday.. i know.. not a whole lot.. But for me thats a BIG deal.. im so not a runner..
Marlo recently posted..Not enough hours in a day
hahah, your so cute girl! I love running alone! Gives me peace, and alone time to just think! I am so proud of you! That is awesome that you have grown to love running!
carlee recently posted..Old Country Buffet
This is awesome and I’ll admit, I’m a bit jealous. I look forward to the day when I can say “I love running!” Until then, I’ll just hang on in there.
Great video too!
The accomplishment is what makes me love running! I used to think I could only run long distances with friends, but now I’ve been training a lone and love it. My own pace. My own breaks. My own time!
Clare @ Fitting It All In recently posted..Vitamins – Do ‘em or Ditch ‘em
I love those Power Bar gel blasts. I used them when Iw as training for my half. Nice run!
Kelly recently posted..Gotta Love the South
Great run Lisa! I like Sport Beans or Clif Shot Blocks — really any kind of gummy chewy sugary thing is good in my eyes. I also drink water and G2 (lower sugar gatorade) on my long long runs. I have a belt that 2 water bottles attach to it, so I can have a little of both every time I stop to take a walking break.
Holly @ couchpotatoathlete recently posted..February Goals Update
i go through really big swings–sometimes i will want to run every day and then other times (like now, for the past two months), i fight myself to get out there and do it. but, i never regret it once i HAVE done it i just have no motivation
carin recently posted..i have lost my brain
I like running alone too although I founded I needed someone to be with me for my first 20 miler to keep me from quitting. I use Cliff Shot Blocks (I cut them in half) but my hubby loves the Powerade gels
Karissa @ CardioFoodie recently posted..My First Marathon- Austin 2011
great job!!
im trying to love running. not quite there yet (though outside is a lot easier than inside!)
Jess@atasteofconfidence recently posted..man candy
I would much rather run by myself. If I run with someone else, i find myself trying to stay up with them intead of keeping my breathing pattern. I also dont feel bad if I need to walk for a minute.
awesome job on an 8 mile run!! I just did mine a few days ago by lake michigan!
Considering my longest run is 4 miles, I guess I’ve never really done a ‘long run’, but it is exhilarating, isn’t it?! I can’t wait to run again.
Congrats on 8 miles- that is AWESOME!
Brittany (A Healthy Slice of Life) recently posted..Lunging Toward Success
I love that you love running. It’s such a big change to go from not liking it or finding it to be just okay, to loving it. I’m planning to do my first half marathon in the fall, and am anxiously waiting for ice and snow to melt to start running outdoors.
I love those energy blasts too – they help so much, and are easy to take on the run.
I am feeling the same exact way these days!! I never thought I would…I have other passions (tennis) and thought it was boring to run…but to get better and be in running shape, feels so good!!
The moment when you realize you love to run is so meaningful. There is nothing else quite like it, and the feeling of accomplishment is so great. Good for you Lisa!
Jamie @ Food in Real Life recently posted..Cabin Fever
So glad you had a good run! Right now I’m working on becoming a runner. I was never really athletic growing up so becoming active and running was definitely not my preferred form of exercise. So far I have enjoyed running too…I hope to call myself a runner someday too. Just want to make sure I really like it before I label myself.
Karen recently posted..Committed
Awesome job on your 8 miles!! I totally agree that the Garmin is a big motivator – monitoring progress definitely makes running more fun.
My favorite mid-run fuel is a pack of Gu. So far the tri-berry has been my favorite. I don’t usually plan out walk breaks ahead of time, but I take them as I need them. When I’m feeling mentally or physically tired a short walk break can really help. I can run by myself or with a friend. I don’t mind running on my own when I have great music, but running with a friend to pace me can be motivating and entertaining too.
Jessica recently posted..Change of Plans
I love running, AND I LOVE YOUR BLOG. I began to hate running for a stint when I became more of a chore and a routine than cartharsis. Two things helped me get over the hump: a) allowing myself to walk when I need it and b) drinking more water. I used to get hyper-competitive WITH MYSELF about times, and now I’m more concerned about running injury-free and happily. It’s been a much-needed shift. Happy running.
Thank you!
I just ran my first 9 mile run yesterday–and I agree that water is so huge. Not just the day of, but just really hydrating well the whole week.