I am that kid. Even though I love running and have been an avid runner for several years, I'm still pretty sure I look like I'm being chased.
My Love/Hate Relationship With Outdoor Running
Since it's now February, I'm starting to feel antsy about joining another race. I am NOT a winter runner. Well, let me take that back. I don't like to run outdoors if it's rainy, snowy, windy, cold, too hot, humid, or all uphill. You must be wondering how on earth I EVER run out side. Good question.
While yes, I am a treadmill runner (temperature that's controlled and a TV. You can't go wrong), I do like the occasional outside run. My husband and I currently live near a chain of lakes that are pretty much connected to one another. Because of the proximity these lakes have to the city, there are some very beautiful and extremely extravagant homes that border all of three of them. If I'm feeling like a short run, I run around the middle lake, which happens to be a perfect 5k (3.1 miles in non-runner speak). You get a view of the sailboats, those who enjoy slacklining, frisbee players, dog walkers, and sun bathers. It's a beautiful mix of the people around you. And just when you are starting to feel exhausted, it's over! Then, if I'm feeling like a rockstar, I can circle two lakes and that gets me to right around the 5 mile mark. When I was training for my half marathon last year, all three lakes equaled around 10 miles. 10 miles of beauty. Makes you feel slightly better about having getting to run for that distance.
Of course, in the land of Minnesota, there are many many lakes to run around, but we also have plenty of state parks that have magnificent bike/run trails. I don't hit those up as often as I should, but every time I do, I'm pleased.
Needless to say, Minnesota has a breathtaking landscape to run around. If you've never been, you're missing out.
My First Race
I lead you to believe this blog post is about picking a race... don't worry. It is.
When I first decided to run a race, I think it was pretty much chosen for me. I worked at a bank in a smaller city, and everywhere you went, you saw a posting for a 5k race that raised money for cancer. That seemed legit. And at that point I was already running 2 miles on my longer runs. What's another mile?
I think I told a handful of people about the race, but definitely didn't invite anyone to come and see me. It seemed silly. What if I didn't finish? What if I was super slow? What is there to even see? I needed to figure it all for myself.
I timidly joined the hundreds of runners in what felt like a cow pen to help herd us to our death. They were stretching and hydrating and some were in really tight, official running-looking clothing. I was in some gym shorts and the t-shirt they gave to us. I wasn't prepared. I didn't have water.
Then, suddenly, a horn (or a gun shot? a loud voice in a megaphone? Whatever they do these days) went off and we all started to inch our way forward. What a weird way to start a race I thought. I thought we'd all take off like lightening. False. It is a slow turtle-walk to get to the "start" of the race.
Once I started, it was easy to know where to go (some people like to look at the course weeks ahead of time so they can either run it or know what to expect, but for my sanity, it's better to be ignorant). I don't remember how I felt. I don't remember if I was dehydrated. I do remember there being a hill we had to run up at the halfway marker. That was brutal. I walked it. I do remember my time was over 30 minutes. But I was proud of myself. I had accomplished a race that I set out to do! I could have easily not shown up. Nobody would have known. But I pulled it off.
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| Nothing could be more accurate. |
Now, About Those Races...
After that race, I slowly joined other 5k's. Turkey Trots, Susan G. Komen 5k's, and even a Color Run. Note: If you are at all serious about your pace and timing, DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT participate in this race. My friend and I got chased down by people throwing yellow powder because we couldn't handle having yet another color thrown into our eyes and ears.
As I've matured in my running, I have now done a 10k (6.2 miles), the Twin Cities 10-Miler, and the Lake Minnetonka Half. That half was my Everest. I was feeling amazing until mile 10, and it was all tough treading after that. I cried when I crossed the finish line.
Anyway, picking a race really depends on what you want to accomplish. Some love to participate in the Couch to 5K that essentially prepares any type of person to run 3 miles in 9 weeks. I didn't know of this type of program when I started running, but I think it would have been beneficial.
Others jump all in and choose to train for a marathon. To each their own for sure. I will say that training for a further distance means you are sacrificing more and more free time to run long distances on certain training days. I have friends that their "Saturday Plans" consist of running 18 miles. For me, I'd like to do one other half marathon to see how I compare, but I really love 10-milers. It feels like my perfect race. Whatever you choose, check out the training plans that usually accompany the raise and see if it's doable. Are you a single mom with three kids trying to work two jobs? Maybe don't try to overwhelm yourself with rigorous training. Believe me, whatever race you choose, you'll feel accomplished and excited. There is definitely a high that follows.
Once you've decided on a length, you'll have to decide on which race. This might feel overwhelming How do you choose? For instance, in June in Minnesota, Running the USA's website says there are 160 races. Jaw drop. So make your decision by breaking it up into categories:
Month
Do you have a lot of downtime in the winter or summer? Do you want to run the months when the leaves fall or when the flowers bloom?
Preferred Temperature
Do you prefer feeling chilled or really sweating it out? Do you need the sunshine to fuel you?
Preferred Time of Day
Do you like the idea of night runs or are you an early riser?
Cost of Race
Races can vary in price. I've spent as little as $20 and as much as $90. And I haven't even entered nationally known races or even a marathon. Pay attention to this!
The "Goodies"
Lots of races provide a t-shirt, but others provide beer, music, and gift bags. Some will also have activities to participate in or even a shiny medal.
Length
As discussed previously, pick a length you feel comfortable
Location
Do you want to use this race as an excuse to travel? Do you want one where you can walk out your front door? Do you want to run around a lake or get lost in the woods?
Cause
Is it important to raise money for Alzheimer's? Cancer research? Or would you prefer lighthearted races where you dress up or have glow sticks?
Hopefully, these categories will help you break it down a little. I'm also happy to answer any questions (or try to direct you to a good source).
Now go out there and be like this guy:
Always,
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