Why didnt' you tell me???

I ran The Rodeo Run put on by HLSR today. Its a 10k that I love, and it's for a great cause. I've run it several times; 15,000+ people getting their run on is just awesome to be a part of. Best part was I did it in under 57 minutes... which is really good for me.



In the corrall

Over the years, I've done a half marathon, lots of 10k's and 5k's and now I feel like a pro, but it certainly wasn't always that way. When you're first starting down the running path, you learn lots about running and yourself. What you find out about yourself, well, that's up to you. But there's lots about running that others can share. So here are some things that I wish I would have know about running when I started.

1. Running is hard, it's really hard.

But the results you get are amazing. You'll be so proud of yourself when you've accomplished whatever your goal is.

For the gals....

2. Get a good sports bra. They're a life saver.

I've tried all kinds and have a preference for the ones that provide the most support (think of full armour). When you shop for one, they should have a guide to tell you what the level of support is. I prefer Nike and Athleta brand. But you be the judge.

3. Pee, a lot, before you take off for a run

If you've had one or more kids.... You know why!


For the guys.... (don't worry, I asked my guy runner friend)

4. Wear the right underwear.

This is the guy equivalent of "get a good sports bra". Nothing sucks more than having all your precious parts.... be not so precious.

5. Take care of your nipples.

Cotton shirts have a tendency to rub you raw. So find a good technical fabric shirt for your runs.

Back to everyone....

6. Get good shoes.

I've tried them all. If you're just starting out, you may have bought yours from a major dept store. That's great and may work just fine for you. But as you get more into running you should check out a speciality running shoe store.  They generally have a captive audience, and those guys can evaluate the way you walk and help you pick a shoe that's built (on the inside) for you. Mizunos are my fave. I'm on my 6th pair. But get your feet assessed, and see if you're in the best shoe for you. You'll be amazed at how much it helps.

7. Eating crap food makes for crap runs

After my second kid showed up, I was carrying around 10-15 extra pounds that never seemed to leave. I was eating and drinking... a lot, and when I started running, it was really evident. We'd go out for Mexican food and I would try to run later in the day and just be ill. So I started eating better, which helped my running. Not that my pace set the world on fire (it still doesn't) but I felt less like throwing up and more like finding an extra mile.

8. The first mile is always the toughest, but its so worth it.

The sense of accomplishment, the "free therapy," and the bond you get with your other runner friends is amazing.

OK Runner Friends... What did I forget? Help our new runner friends out!