Some things I took away:
1. Run my long runs and my easy runs slower
2. I don't have to run the whole run with the bf
3. For the first marathon, enjoy the race and the training.
There were other helpful insights in the comments, but these three were the ones that I focused on for this long run.
I ran this week's long run slower and ran the first half of it with the bf. It was a hard run to get started on mentally, because I knew that it would be the farthest that I've ever run before. This was the first long run that made me feel like I was actually training for a marathon, and for the first time ever, I went over the half marathon distance.
 |
| The last two miles were hard. I averaged 10:47/mile. |
Usually I don't use any gels for half marathons, but I know that I would need something for the marathon. So the bf and I bought a gel each to try out. Those are expensive when you buy the, in singles!
.JPG) |
| Of course mine is the chocolate. I am of the opinion that chocolate can cover up any unpleasant taste. |
All in all, it was a successful run. I probably will try other methods of fueling. Any recommendations? And how often should I take the gels? Have a great weekend!
During races, I only eat gels (espresso flavor anything) since I am completely incapable of running and chewing. Or drinking but that's a totally different story. They used to be good and they didn't hurt my stomach. I had some slight problems during the last couple of races, so I might need to reconsider my fuel, but still.. During my long training runs I sometime eat cliff bloks or powerbar gels (the banana strawberry filled ones are my favorite) but that's because I take walking breaks whenever I eat. Otherwise I choke. I take one portion of anything at every hour. Of course, fueling is completely personal, but I hope I gave you a couple of ideas of what to try :-)
ReplyDeleteI have heard some good things about the espresso flavor. I think I'll give it a try.
DeleteI liked cliff bloks, but it was really hard to chew and run.
Congrats on the 14 miler!!
ReplyDeleteI am not sure on the answer for gels/carbs on the run. Apparently it's good for recovery to replace carbs as per the directions on the package, but I often run without any carbs. Gatorade and other refuel drinks can also be used in replacement of gel+ water. The mixes might be cheaper than gel. You could also try making your own energy bars- lots of recipes out there!
I usually do take Gatorade during races. I've never thought about making my own energy bar. It sounds time consuming but a good idea.
DeleteGreat job on the new distance! I like to take fuel every 1.5 hours, but I also drink Gatorade as I run which helps me stretch it out.
ReplyDeleteEvery 1.5 hours sound manageable. Is that what you did for your fifty miler?
DeleteGreat job guys!
ReplyDeleteI'm probably going to take 3-4 energy gels during our marathon, I took 2 during our half marathon (and will do the same for our upcoming ones).
It was so much fun hanging out with you guys today!
It was very fun! How do you carry your gels? Do you have pockets in your running gear?
DeleteI do on some of them, and I can fit two gels in them. I have spibelt for our marathon though that should hold 4 gels.
DeleteThat's a big milestone! Great job! I try for 100 calories every 3 miles.
ReplyDeleteThanks! I think I'll give that a try next time.
Deletewhen i was training for the marathon, i'd take one gel every hour (usually used gu...yummy flavours like espresso, chocolate mint and peanut butter!)...for the actual race, i did one gel every 6k. the other thing that i used that i think really helped was using a salt/electrolyte capsule (i used saltstick brand) as i don't like drinking gatorade during races/training runs...i just like plain water!
ReplyDeletenice job on hitting that milestone! i'm getting excited for you for the marathon!
and yes...those darn little gel packets are pretty expensive, aren't they!
I've never thought about electrolytes. I usually just take the Gatorade in a race. Do you just suck on the salt/electrolyte capsule or put that in the water?
DeleteI have never used gels or food for my runs. Weird, maybe I should? Love your blog and posts. Great job on the mileage. One thing I am working on is negative split. Seems you and I have a lot in common, we like to run hard and fast up front. I am training as well and one of the hardest things for me is keeping a steady pace for the first half which will create a faster second half. I think it is most important to run just for fun. Yet some training advise given to me was to run slower in the front and it will be easier to run at the end. Example my first mile is usually a 7 minute as I get to the end it is a 9 minute mile for an average of 8 minutes a mile. Yet it I run an 8 minute mile up front I will have more energy, strength and endurance left at the end to tin sub 8 minute miles giving my end time a faster pace. The times in the example are not exact jut used to make a point. Keep it up, I enjoy reading your blog. It motivates me to keep training.
ReplyDeleteThat's interesting. If you don't have to use a gel, then I don't see the point in using one? But then what do I know about training properly.
DeleteI agree about running hard and fast up front. I have a really hard time pacing myself.
Typing on an iPhone is hard. I should proof read before publishing.
ReplyDeleteI have found running the long runs slower is definitely a good thing. Makes it not so dreadful at the end if you don't burn out your legs in the early miles. Plus I love doing ice baths afterward. I think it really helps to relieve soreness and inflammation from long runs! For fueling I have used Gu gels and Gu chomps and sport beans. Also I use Nuun and i love it!
ReplyDeleteIce baths sound really good. But I don't have a bathtub in college housing. And using my bf's dirty boy house's bath tub is very unappealing.
DeleteI've never used sport beans before. Are they like jelly beans?