Happy Monday!

"Monday run-day!" 

Derek and I decided to go on a long run early Monday morning. The route we planned was a little over 6 miles. I also used this run as a test for my running nutrition; the energy supplements I would use during my half marathon. Nutrition planning isn't something people usually think about having to train for while also training to run 13.1 miles. However, figuring out your nutrition for an endurance sport is really important. My husband gave me some helpful tips and I decided I would use a Stinger gel 30 mins into the run... and cross my fingers that the gel wouldn't wreak havoc on my body. I've heard horror stories about some products causing diarrhea!

Anyhoo... Our run started out well, we kept up a slow and steady pace as we climbed hills. I focused on my breathing pretty heavily during the first three miles. Around 2.8 miles I looked down and saw a ten dollar bill on the ground! I snatched up the money and stuffed it in my bra without missing a beat. The running gods decided to pay me for my run! YEAY!!

$10 score!! (dont mind my red face)

After mile 3 I stopped for minute or two so I could gulp down the Stinger gel and drink a little water. Mile four was pretty harsh, but i pushed through. I started feeling aches in my hip flexors and some slight pains in my knees. I pushed through the discomfort and made sure to be careful with my movements. The last thing I need right now is an injury. Once I hit mile 6 I decided to walk the rest of the way home. It was maybe 0.15 miles and I knew I needed to stretch my legs. I also took a celebratory selfie!

Finished my long run. I'm a happy girl.

I finished my 6 miler in 68 mins. Not too shabby! My husband complemented my pace. I've got to take a moment to mention how awesome he was during our run. He runs at a much faster pace than I do, but he still chose to stick by my side for the duration of my run. When I asked him why he didn't just blow past me he told me, "No, I wanted to run with you." Kudos for being a supportive man! (xoxox)

Below is a graph of my pace over the elevation changes. Looking it over, I am happy with the consistency of my pace throughout my splits. The large spikes represent the times I walked. Only four times! WOOOOO! Believe me, it's an improvement.

6 miles, 68 mins, 11:21 pace. I am pretty proud of myself!

I have more runs planned for this week. My legs are still pretty sore, but Wednesday I will be getting back out there. I plan to run 3 miles of intervals. Friday morning I am meeting with a friend in the morning and we will be running up and down Sabino Canyon. It will be a really challenging route because it is 3 miles up and 3 miles back. Yikes! I set a goal that I have to run at least 4 miles; at LEAST!