20 days until the Gusher!

I think that yesterday's run was the most important run of this training program. My mileage had been slowly building and building every week until it peaked this week and more specifically with yesterday's 20 mile run. In my heart I knew if I could run 20 miles at once I could certainly run 26.2. I'm excited to report I did successfully run 20 miles yesterday afternoon! 

I went to the running store yesterday morning and bought some more supplies that I needed. I bought some new running shorts, a new pair of socks, a pack that attaches to my running belt so I can carry energy packs, and most importantly energy gels and energy chews. The entire time I had been training for this marathon not once had I considered bringing energy gels/chews with me while running. Those long days that I ran 14,16,18 miles all I had with me was some gatorade, that's it! The training app I use mentions all kinds of other running tips but does not mention a peep about diet and refueling. I was reading online this week about things I should be eating while training along with things to eat before, during, and after the run. I also spoke with a close friend who knows a guy who runs marathons frequently. Apparently this running friend uses gels during the race to re-fuel. So, I bought some gels and a pack of energy chews for my run yesterday. It's safe to say I have found the missing part of my training plan! I consumed some type of energy every 5 miles yesterday and it made a world of difference. The only thing still off is that I'm not drinking enough water while running. Fortunately, they will have water stations at every mile along the way. I believe that if I use energy to re-fuel and drink enough water I'll be fine. 

I emailed with once of the race coordinators this week. I had a few questions I wasn't able to find on the FAQ section of their website. She was really great and was excited that I am running this marathon. I was able to register for the race this week as well. So, it's official: I am running the Gusher marathon on 3/9/2013 at 7:30 A.M. Over the months of training I have trained my body to breathe properly while running. I've learned how to pace myself and not push too hard too early. I've learned to properly hydrate along with way even if I am not particularly thirsty. I've learned to carry fuel with me to charge up along the way. In summary the recipe for success in this race is: breathing, pace, hydration, and fuel.  I am going to finish this race. With God's strength and for His glory I will do this.

Thank you all who read these postings. It's been a journey training for this race. I've been challenged physically, mentally, and emotionally. I've learned a lot about running and a lot about myself. Training for this is not like building muscle. When I look in the mirror I don't look any different. What is different is inside me. I started training in October of 2012 and over these months my endurance has increased from running 6 miles to running 20 miles. At 31 years old I am in the best shape of my life. I'm excited about this race. It's going to be hard but worth it. 

In the coming weeks my training will taper off. The week of the marathon I'll only run 3 miles. Thanks for all your support and encouragement! I'll post another entry soon. 

Marathon training - 34 days until the Gusher

I had another successful run this morning. As I get closer to March 9 these Saturday runs keep getting longer and longer. Today was the next to the longest distance I'll run in training for the race. I finished 18 miles this morning. I'm excited about the race but at the same time it is very challenging. I'm learning all about diet, breathing, pace, and staying properly hydrated. The run today went well with my pace and breathing. I need to purchase a second water bottle to carry with me to stay properly hydrated. In the actual marathon they have water stations set up approximately every 3 miles so I can be sure to drink enough. 

I've been experimenting with Gatorade's 3 series of drinks. They have the Prime-Perform-Recover series that I've been trying out. I drink the prime before I got out and I drink the regular gatorade while running. I tried the Recover today but it was way too sweet. They also have protein shakes you can get. I'll probably try one of those next time. 

In the coming weeks I'll pick up another water bottle and the shorts I'll wear for the race. I have a step-back week next Saturday so instead of running 19 miles I'll run 14. The following weekend is the "Big 20." After that my training tapers off as I get ready for the Gusher. I pray for strength every time I run the God gives me the drive to press on. I think this may be my first and last full marathon to run. These long runs kick my butt. I'm not good for much for several hours after the run. I burn a bunch of calories and get some good cardio in but it takes so much out of me. 

I'll see how I feel after the full marathon on March. Until next time.