During my longer runs, I usually take a little Gatorade or something similar to consume mid-way through for a little energy, but today I tried something different. At mile 4, of my 8-mile jaunt, I devoured a GU Energy Gel. The "Mandarin Orange" flavor was less than desirable, but the packet rejuvenated me within minutes. My next two miles felt almost like my very first two, in terms of pep in my step. I'd highly recommend these to anyone for some much needed, mid-workout fuel.
According to the GU website, "A shot of fast-acting natural fructose (fruit sugar) goes straight to work building your energy levels back up while the maltodextrin is quickly absorbed and sent to your muscles. Vital electrolytes keep your blood chemistry in line and hydration levels stable. Calcium keeps your muscles humming and caffeine adds an extra kick to your power."
We reached 1,000 page-views during the course of the night ... I guess that's pretty nifty.
Something yesterday inspired me to revisit the 1998 classic, Saving Private Ryan.
Lastly, I've started re-watching all five seasons of HBO's hit series The Wire (2002-2008). If you have the means, Omar Little (below) and I highly recommend you do the same.
So I just completed my first 10-mile run ever, and needless to say I am ecstatic about reaching this personal running milestone. During my time out on the pavement, numerous thoughts crossed my mind. The 10 best are as follows:
1: It's a beautiful day. There's nothing better for a morning run than perfect weather.
2. Light bulb! I had a spectacular idea for a race day shirt:
Remember to Smile
3. I'm really digging my new Amphipod RunLite Hydration Belt. It later will prove to be a life-saver on this run, and it forces me to stand a little more upright than I usually do.
4. Mile 5: HALFWAY. I love the midpoint of my runs, especially "out-and-back" ones. It's all downhill from here.
5. Mile 7: my feet hurt. Both of my feet are a little sore at this point, but I always like to think back to a Nike ad I saw once that read: There comes a time when you'd rather injure your body than injure your pride.It's definitely not the smartest training motto, but it's a little nice motivation.
6. This song: "Country Roads" by: Pretty Lights
7. Mile 8: Sir, meet the wall.
Ouch.
8. I have the best friends in the world. I realize that this has absolutely nothing to do with running at all, but I ran past a familiar place on my run today. This place holds countless memories with the coolest people I know. I'm glad I have them.
9. Truth:
10. As I turn down my street, legs feeling like Jell-O, I can't help but feel accomplished. While I'm still nowhere near where I want to be for my eventual race goals, this is perfect for where I am now. From struggling with 2 miles at the beginning of the summer to this, it's amazing where you can go with a little hard work and a positive mental attitude.
Inception(2010) ... If you have to ask, you'll never know.
"Let Go" by: Frou Frou
Ever tried Newsmap? It's the perfect way to get any and all news in various categories. Glance at headlines for a few seconds, or browse the articles in a whirlwind of information:
Don't want to be wasteful? Refrigerate that leftover coffee and use some/all of it to make your morning oatmeal. It's not much, but you'll notice the taste difference. Add some honey to make it even better.
Just when you thought the game could no longer be changed, Sharpie goes and invents the coolest thing since sliced bread: the gel highlighter. With classes starting right around the corner, I highly recommend you pick up a pack of these.
New gel stick technology provides the strongest smear protection across most pen and marker inks and ink jet printouts!
Won't bleed through paper. Works on all paper surfaces including glossy and thin papers, magazines and Bibles
Won't dry out if left uncapped
Sharpie Gel technology writes as long as a traditional pen-style highlighter
Gel stick conforms to your handwriting style
Perfect for highlighting, writing, doodling and drawing
Twist bottom to advance gel stick
Available in Orange, Pink, Yellow, Green, and Blue
According to Sharpie: "Will it change the way you highlight? Gel yes!"