I'm not always one for learning things the hard way, but sometimes, it just happens. That's what happened for these points that I've gathered along my running journey in the last year. I'm still learning each day, and sometimes I make rookie mistakes, my run this past weekend missed the mark on shade, but either way it's helpful to try to remember these tips:
- Bodyglide does a body good. Before I started running, I thought Bodyglide was some sort of weird personal lubricant that people strangely used for running. No. It's like a wax stick that you use to prevent chafing. I had heard of it, but finally purchased it after I actually starting adding running into my training. I can say, whether it's hot or cold out, I use it. I'm "that girl" that sweats a lot. So, I learned quickly where I need to put it and how effective it is!
- Track your shoes' mileage! With the amount of money that you invest in your shoes, and the protection that they offer your feet, do yourself a favor and track how much you run in them. Whether you mark the box they call home, whether you track it through your Garmin or running app, just make sure to keep a running total. I learned the hard way that my shoes that I had the ENTIRE year last year were in fact, NOT still ok to be wearing AFTER I ran the WDW Half. Learned the hard way and got new shoes as soon as I got home and now I'm tracking their mileage!
- Hydration and Fuel choices matter. Every person's body is different, but I have found what brands/flavors I like to use to fuel before, during, and after runs. You may find that some don't agree with your stomach or your tastes (I hate chemical aftertastes). Just make sure to start using them once your runs get longer, they help during your run and recovery afterwards!
- For the girls: Good support makes sense. Everyone shells out the big bucks for shoes, so women of all shapes and sizes should invest in a good support sports bra or 4.
- Blisters happen and your feet will not stay pedicured for long. I haven't had a toenail fall off, thank goodness, but I know it can happen. I do have blisters regularly due to the heat & humidity where I live and sweating but the best thing I've found is duct tape. Bodyglide doesn't cut it on my feet for long runs.
- For runs during intense heat (which I have to deal with in the Dirty South): Pouring water over your head and down your chest and back is a lifesaver. Make sure you stay hydrates and replenish sugar and electrolytes since you'll be sweating so much. Try to stay out of the sun as much as possible and run before the sun rises if you can. Also, I use a Frogg Togg Chilly Pad for cooling off and wiping away sweat.
- Form determines Function! For me, I've found that when my form suffers, so does my running. Whether you run more upright or falling forward, find what works for you and stay true to that form. I often repeat out loud "Run right, walk right" when I can feel that my form is faltering. I have to remind myself often that if my form is making me hurt mid-run, that it's only going to hurt more during recovery!
- Forethought in mapping your run is smart! Whether you map your run for the views, the breeze (me and the beach) or just for whatever is close by, keep these things in mind:
- Shade is your friend!
- Be careful running near heavily traveled roads (drivers nowadays are distracted!)
- If it is hot, carry water, place it along your route or map your route near an area you can get some water to pour some over your head to keep from overheating (my beach has shower heads that I run by!)
- Sunscreen is a must, no one wants sunglasses raccoon eyes OR skin cancer.
- I don't like carrying anything if I dont have to, but while training, I carry my phone (it is also my running app.gps and music) and mace in case of emergency. Be sure to run in safe areas!
- Remember: runners travel against traffic, not with it! It kills me every time I see someone breaking that rule.
- Lastly, no matter where you're running, be aware! If you run with music, keep it low to hear your surroundings. Also, I like to look around every few minutes just to make sure who is or isn't near me. There have been many stories in the news lately about runners being harassed, kidnapped and killed and a majority of them were wearing headphones.
I hope these tips help you on your run. If I find any other tips along my journey, I'll be sure to share!
-Diana
