First Long Run of the Season

Spring is finally here and I think my runner's legs have almost thawed out. Race season is upon us and it was time to schedule a long(er) run. My first "race" this season is the Tough Mudder, PA on April 10th - which is actually not a race, rather a 10-mile run on a ski mountain inclusive of 20 insane obstacles. So - preparations are definitely underway.

I'm not so worried about the run as I am the obstacles. I definitely lack some upper body strength, so have been concentrating on weight training the past couple months. Along with my usual bicep curls with 10 lb weights, I have incorporated sets using the assisted pull up machine at the gym. I'm also back in the routine of fitting in some traditional push ups which have always been a challenge for me. But I'm finally seeing results and am feeling confident & excited for April 10!

But, a 10-mile run is a 10-mile run is a 10-mile run. Yes? So I set out on my first run over 5 miles of 2011. The weather was gorgeous, so I mapped out a 7 mile course. Started the day with some coffee, a bowl of wheaties & raisins, and this delish smoothie and a few bites of an Earnest Eats Blueberry Granola Plank!

Smoothie consisted of organic plain yogurt, soy milk, blueberries, strawberries, banana, chia seeds, and a few ice cubes. Perfectly filling!

Set out for the run and felt amazing which was so encouraging. I completely attribute this to the sunshine. I left the garmin at home because I didn't want to obsess on my pace and the mile splits - just brought my running watch and iPod. Finished in 58:30; Average 8:20-ish minute mile.

Cool down: Manny for a walk?! Happy dog.

Spring is here!! I feel like these trees are going to bloom any second now, right?

I stretched a bunch after and my body feels good today. My only issue is that my FEET hurt! A little achey. I'm thinking this may be due to the 1,000,000 errands I ran yesterday after the run. Or maybe because it was my first 7-miler in months in my Nike Free 3.0's (which I LOVE). I feel like a need a good foot massage - pedicure, anyone?

But, it also strangely feels like my feet need a good STRETCH. Does anyone know what I mean? Feet seem like a weird thing to stretch, kind of like hip flexors. Anyone know any good feet stretches??

Happy Sunday + Happy Spring!