Monday, June 1, 2009

Tapering

I ran 8 miles on Saturday and then 4 miles on Sunday.

I'm really starting to like this taper thing!

Now the nerves are starting to kick in...5+ hours is a long time to do anything, let alone run through the West Virginia mountains.

I'm planning on walking through each (and EVERY) water stop to give my legs a break. There will be 25 water stations (approx. 1 every mile) so when things get crazy I can tell myself: "Only 10-12 minutes of running and then a little break."

I have a feeling that will become my race mantra.

***

I'm still undecided on race fuel...I like Shot Blox (tasty, easy to carry) but I get a bigger "boost" from PowerBar Gels.

I also get disgusting jam hands after I eat one, which drives me crazy.

And what should I do about my salt intake/anti-cramping measures? Grab some packets from Wendy's for mile 20, or spring for the Endurolytes?

Here are some Endurolyte facts from the Hammer Nutrition website:

Application:
Use prior to, during, and after workouts to satisfy the body's electrolyte requirements with maximum precision.

Mixing / Usage:
Instructions: Use as needed but primarily when:

1. Exercise lasts for more than 2 hours, regardless of temperature or humidity.

2. Exercise lasts less than 2 hours and:
- Temperature is above 80 degrees and/or 70% humidityor
- Temperature and humidity is 10 degrees or more above what you are accustomed to

1-3 capsules 30-60 minutes prior to exercise

1-6 capsules each hour during exercise

1-3 capsules after exercise


Ugh. Running and math.

But considering I took the time to blog about it, I'm probably going to invest in some Endurolytes.

4 comments:

  1. I'll bike behind you with wet naps to help with the jam hands situation.

    ReplyDelete
  2. You will rock that marathon. It may not feel like it for a few days after but you will do great. You've put in the work and think about this...it's an automatic PR!!!

    ReplyDelete
  3. can i run it with you? there are no marathons around these parts and I did as the orthopaed told me and just ran until I felt ready to do a race- well i was ready but there were no races.
    hhmm...

    um i would eat salt packets.
    actually no, i wouldn't eat salt Nor would i invest in electrolytes because I'm just not that concerned ahead of time- but catch me during it and i will be the one kicking myself wishing I had a packet of salt.

    how bout you carry a wet nap with you along with the goo- like in a plastic bag or plastic wrap and then you can just wipe and throw.

    eh ? eh? pretty smart. s-m-r-t

    ReplyDelete