Motion Is Life

On a personal note, my first run this week was only 4 miles. It was a very difficult 4 miles, unnecessarily. I've run farther than 4 miles, much more easily, in the past. I discovered a few things that could've caused the difficulty: improper nutrition (that day), lack of sleep, improper stretching from a previous run, and add to that the difficulty of pushing a double running stroller. Anyway, a few things I learned and wanted to share:

* It is so important to eat the right foods all the time, especially before a run. Many runners feel that it's important to load up on carbs, but that's not necessarily the case. If you're running 3-5 miles, and you feel hungry before, eat something bland and easily digested. Drink plenty of water and maybe eat a bowl of oatmeal about and hour or so before your run. This will give you the energy you need without all the carbs you don't. I am guilty of eating a bite or two here and there throughout the day, as I'm feeding my three girls; never actually taking the time to properly nourish myself.

* It's also important to try to get as much sleep as possible. 10 hours would just be great wouldn't it? I can't remember the last time I slept for 10 hours straight. I probably won't get 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep until all my little girls are older. However, I have tried to set a bedtime for myself. I get caught up trying to finish all the things I didn't finish during the day and end going to bed way too late.

* Pre-run warm-up and post-run stretching is crucial to a successful run. Slack off on these two things and you'll pay the price eventually.

* Now about the running stroller...pushing the stroller (with about 50lbs.) is definitely more challenging. Studies show that you can burn up to 20% more calories (depeding on the weight in the stroller) while pushing a stroller at a given pace. You'll work your cardiovascular system harder, and pushing the stroller will strengthen several muscle groups. Well, I'm not sure I enjoy the added challenge! Oh well...mommy of three doesn't have a choice sometimes, so I'll just suck it up and try harder next time.

On a positive note, I ran another 4 miles today. Much better than the last. I find that running in the early morning or late evening is better for me. Afternoon runs catch me at my weakest. So, since 8pm runs are less likely to be convenient, it looks like I'll be getting an early start on run days. That's ok though; the days are getting hotter and flying insects are getting worse. I say "bring on the 7am run!"