Never in a million years did I think running would become such a huge part of my life. A little over a year ago, I signed up for my first marathon and started taking running a little more seriously.
Clearly.
Since then, I’ve run nearly two dozen races, hundreds of miles, and made some awesome friends in the process. I honestly can’t imagine my life without running now.
(Please click over to Ali’s blog and wish her good luck in her first marathon today!)
In honor of my 20-mile run this morning and soon-to-be taper (woot!), here are my favorite running posts to date:
My Race Recaps
I love running races. Of course, I enjoy the excitement of the day, but the best part is the competition with yourself. When I sign up for a race, I always set a goal, which motivates me to train hard and improve my time. I’ve completed a number of different distances from 5K to marathon. You can read all of my race recaps and see how I display my medals.
My Favorite Treadmill Workouts
The winters are cold and long in Boston, so I take my running indoors to the treadmill on occasion. Here are some of my favorite treadmill workouts, which keep me interested and motivated, no problem.
The Race Where I Didn’t Poop My Pants
Finishing this race meant so much to me. At one point, I couldn’t even take Murphy for a walk around the block without an emergency trip to the bathroom. It’s amazing was some positive thinking, strong drugs, and a few dietary changes will do.
How to Start Running: Tips for Beginners
Running is great exercise and an effective way to tone muscles, but it can be daunting to take the first step! Here are some tips to make it less intimidating.
Tips for Increasing Your Distance
Training for a marathon taught me a lot about how to increase my distance. Here are the tips and tricks that have helped me build my mileage from one to 26.2!
How I Fuel for a Long Run
Running long distances requires a lot of energy. Before a long run or a race, I eat the same breakfast: peanut butter and banana on whole wheat bread or an EnglisThe h muffin. During a long run, here’s how I fuel. Within 30 minutes of completing a long run, I typically ‘refuel’ with eggs, a smoothie, or a peanut butter sandwich.
My Favorite Running Products
While training for my first marathon, I learned what I need (and don’t need) to run well. Some products are more essential than others, but these are the ones that I can’t live (run) without.
All for 26.2
Before Mal and I left to run our first marathon in Arizona, I recapped our journey.
Recap of My First Marathon
In January, I ran the Rock ‘N’ Roll Arizona Marathon. It was an amazing experience—and really frickin’ tough!
Get Out There and Run
On the days when I’m just not motivated to run, here’s what I do. Seven tips and tricks to get out there and run!
Ways to Deal with Training & Cravings
After gaining weight while training for my first marathon, I vowed not to gain weight the second time around. I still experienced plenty of cravings during training for my second marathon, but I didn’t fall into them (as much), so I didn’t gain weight.
Marathon Fueling Q & A
Last July, I had the opportunity to ask a Certified Sports Dietitian a number of questions about how to properly fuel during marathon training. You can read our whole question and answer session here.
How I Survive Winter Running
I used to dread running outside in the winter, but learning how to deal with the cold and dress properly for the conditions has made it much more enjoyable. Here’s how I get myself out the door and running!
How I Prepare for Race Day
I thought it would be helpful to share my race day routine since it can be equally exciting as it is nerve-wracking. Here’s how I maximize the enjoyment of race day without stressing out over too many of the details.
Garmin 305 Review
I absolutely love my Garmin 305! It’s improved my running so much, and I can’t run without it now! My review gives the pros and cons of this particular Garmin model.
