Calling all Princess 1/2 Marathoner's! Check in here! *UPDATE* PRE-RACE MEET INFO!

[smileyk8]

Hi guys! I've been missing because I've been sick... I had to skip my 8 miler on Sunday due to being sick. Woke up on Friday w/ pressure in the ears. I took OTC stuff, but I wasn't getting better. I went to the Dr yesterday... DOUBLE Ear Infections and the start of bronchitis! I can't believe it.
Stacie

Oh gosh stacie sorry you've been feeling so rough! So so pleased the antibiotics are having effect already. You take care of yourself, i know how rought chest infections can make you feel.

but I did hit a tree and fall off (the corner was too tight). I did 8m in 1 hour.

hang on that was slower than you expected! My goodness you are going to burn the road.... if you stay on it! Aww hope you didn't hurt yourself falling off. Please take care

I did 7.5 miles on Sunday, which is good, but I didn't do well. I did it with new sneakers and ended up with a large blood blister on the bottom of my left foot. Not the really bad part, once I got home I got "sick" twice and had to lay down for awhile b/c it felt like I pushed it too much somehow....

I had somehow GAINED 5 pounds. I was beyond devastated. I haven't been able to lose weight in the 4 years since I went on fertility meds to conceive my sons, and even with the dieting and exercise for this Half, I apparently STILL can't lose any weight.

I think actually it's quite common to feel like you really pushed yourself hard when you stepped up mileage. Not nice, but i know an awful lot of ppl who experience exactly the same at first, then the next run they do feels ok. Just be aware of any physical feelings that show you're struggling or dehydrated- my tell tale sign is sticky/ very salty hand (gross i know!)

In terms of weightloss i'm so sorry your hard work hasn't been reflected in weight loss, but have you noticed inch loss instead? I really haven't noticed a lot of change in my weight but my shape changed quite a bit after the first few months of training. Try not to live by scales as they only tell part of the story and hopefully the lbs will catch up soon.

 

[wtpclc]

2Boysmom - SO much to address. Have you measured yourself. that's the only way to know for sure if you're ganing or losing. You may not be weight lifting, but you are building muscles in your legs. Are you starving yourself? If you don't eat enoiugh, your body will cling to all it's got and your metabolism will go down, so you won't lose. You may want ot try sparkpeople or any place that will help you estimate calories bruned vs calories taken in. Please do not let set backs take away all tha toyu have gained. Yes, 1 banana is not enough before a 7.5-miler if it's more than an hour or so before running. You need to fuel your body. Please be careful with eating too little.

 

[RunDisney09]

I did 7.5 miles on Sunday, which is good, but I didn't do well. I did it with new sneakers and ended up with a large blood blister on the bottom of my left foot. Not the really bad part, once I got home I got "sick" twice and had to lay down for awhile b/c it felt like I pushed it too much somehow....

These are some of the issues I think I'm not experienced enough to know what to do:
1) the shoes. If I put cushioned insoles in them, do you think my foot might move a little less? Body glide on the bottom of feet? I didn't really "feel" like there was excess movement in the shoe, but that's what I am assuming happened for the big blister to occur.
Any advice, Princess buddies?

Sorry, I forgot to comment on the shoes and the blister. A few questions. Did you have the shoes fit at a running store? I am rather a new runner so I don't have alot of experience with shoes but I do know that it is best to get them fitted by someone who knows what they are doing. They can tell what kind of shoes you need and what will work best. Shoes these days don't usually need much 'breaking in' but a few shorter runs may be a good idea next time you get new shoes.

What kind of socks do you wear? The fact that the blister is on the bottom of your foot would make me wonder if it's a sock issue? I have never had trouble with running in normal socks (occasionally I forget to change into my running socks) but normally I do run in running socks that are much lighter and made of something other than my normal socks! Hopefully someone here can shed more light on that part of it!

I hope it heals quickly, I wish I had more advice on that part but I've never dealt with anything like that!

Big hugs going out to you I hope in a few days you are feeling better about things

 

[RunDisney09]

2Boysmom - SO much to address. Have you measured yourself. that's the only way to know for sure if you're ganing or losing. You may not be weight lifting, but you are building muscles in your legs. Are you starving yourself? If you don't eat enoiugh, your body will cling to all it's got and your metabolism will go down, so you won't lose. You may want ot try sparkpeople or any place that will help you estimate calories bruned vs calories taken in. Please do not let set backs take away all tha toyu have gained. Yes, 1 banana is not enough before a 7.5-miler if it's more than an hour or so before running. You need to fuel your body. Please be careful with eating too little.

I totally agree with this! I have taken sports nutrition classes and you definitely need to fuel your body. If you aren't eating enough it could definitely be why you aren't losing weight too. Most research today says that you need at least 1200 calories a day, no lower or your metabolism will dive. I also agree that SparkPeople is a great site (and free) that can help with many things. Keep us posted on how things go 2Boysmom You can definitely do this!!

 

[hungrygreenhippo]

I did 7.5 miles on Sunday, which is good, but I didn't do well. I did it with new sneakers and ended up with a large blood blister on the bottom of my left foot. Not the really bad part, once I got home I got "sick" twice and had to lay down for awhile b/c it felt like I pushed it too much somehow....

7.5 miles is a BIG achievement. You should be proud of making it that far.

I agree with what the others have said about needing more fuel. Try a slightly more substantial breakfast and consider bringing something out with you during your walk/run. (Sorry, I don't remember if you're a walker or runner.) Do you happen to live near an REI? I had a great time browsing all of their various options of energy fuel and you can buy individual packets there so you can sample until you find what works for you.

Hopefully once you break in your new shoes some more, the blisters will go away. If not, consider investing in different socks. A lot of people recommend WrightSOCKs for avoiding blisters. I think it was on the All About The Mouse podcast where I heard someone say that its not necessarily about the individual shoes or socks but finding the right combination of shoes and socks together.

As an aside, All About The Mouse had a great series of running advice on their podcast leading up to the WDW marathon weekend. I found it pretty interesting and most of it would apply to us getting ready for the Princess half too.

Finally, I just wanted to suggest that it might help to take in some salt after your workout. I'm sorry I can't remember the exact science behind it but I think it has to do with losing salt through your skin when you sweat. I did a 7 mile run on Sunday and felt awful afterward with a really bad headache. I thought it was a combination of exhaustion and overexposure to the sun (that's what I get for running in the desert), but then I ate some salty plantain chips and felt better almost immediately.

You can do it! Just a few more weeks to go and you'll be celebrating at the finish line!

 

[queen mimi]

2boysmom:

I know exactly how you feel. 2 weeks ago I felt so much better prepared. Then, I got new shoes. Yesterday, I did a 10 mile walk and the bottom of my feet just burned starting at mile 9. I am frantic to find out what happened and what to do about it. On the internet, there are dozens of suggestions about what to do. I am going to the running store where I bought the shoes to discuss the problem with them. Also, I think that I am developing shin splints! Plus, I haven't lost much weight either. So, it sounds like we have a sisterhood! Maybe, it is just pre-race jitters for those of us who are new to this adventure. I'll let you know what the people at the running store tell me. Good luck to you. Keep in touch.

Meg

 

[2BoysMom]

.... During the race there are plenty of water stops to keep you hydrated but I always have my water with me because I tend to take a drink of water if I get "bored" and that tends to happen when I am not around a water stop.
Are the water stops simply that.. water? Or is there Gatorade, too or something? That's been one of my questions...
Good luck and whatever you do make sure you get at least one long run in with anything new before the race. This is good advice.

In terms of weightloss i'm so sorry your hard work hasn't been reflected in weight loss, but have you noticed inch loss instead? I really haven't noticed a lot of change in my weight but my shape changed quite a bit after the first few months of training. Try not to live by scales as they only tell part of the story and hopefully the lbs will catch up soon.

Thanks for the support. I have felt thinner, I thought my clothes looked better, etc. That's why I had it in my head that "THIS TIME" the weight was finally coming off. I think after seeing the number on the scale, I was just blown away and not mentally prepared for the number to have gone in a different direction.

2boysmom:

I know exactly how you feel. 2 weeks ago I felt so much better prepared. Then, I got new shoes. Yesterday, I did a 10 mile walk and the bottom of my feet just burned starting at mile 9. I am frantic to find out what happened and what to do about it. On the internet, there are dozens of suggestions about what to do. I am going to the running store where I bought the shoes to discuss the problem with them. Also, I think that I am developing shin splints! Plus, I haven't lost much weight either. So, it sounds like we have a sisterhood! Maybe, it is just pre-race jitters for those of us who are new to this adventure. I'll let you know what the people at the running store tell me. Good luck to you. Keep in touch.

Meg

My first pair of shoes were Brooks, which I liked. Then I read we should have 2 pairs of shoes if we are training for a Marathon, and the Asics I read about had great reviews. When I bought them, they did feel slightly looser than my Brooks, but comfortable, so I didn't worry about using them for the 7.5 miler. I also bought the same Athletic sole inserts as Stacy, so I am going to try them in the new shoes. They were fine on my right foot....?

And whoever mentioned the Wrightsocks, you are not the first person to say that to me, so maybe I should pay attention. I am going to look into different socks.

I didn't quote everyone who wrote to me, but I appreciate everyone chiming in and giving me advice and support. I have listened to all of you. I think I was definitely undernourised and probably should have had a sports drink instead of water that day, I was out for 120 minutes for that powerwalk (the blister slowed me down towards the end).

I apologize again for the dreary message, as it is so nice for all of us to cheer and support and make jokes as we train together for this. But I was so down on myself yesterday, I didn't know where to turn. So, thank you again for listening and lending your support.

I did have a question before I got all down and out. I was wondering what kind of hydration belts people would be wearing (if any) for this race. I looked at and tried on a couple this weekend, and my arms would hit the water bottles, or it felt uncomfortable, etc. Would people mind sharing what they are using, and what brand names or links?

Thank you again, and I promise to bring along my cheerier self.

 

[CarolA]

Hopefully once you break in your new shoes some more, the blisters will go away. If not, consider investing in different socks. A lot of people recommend WrightSOCKs for avoiding blisters. I think it was on the All About The Mouse podcast where I heard someone say that its not necessarily about the individual shoes or socks but finding the right combination of shoes and socks together.



You can do it! Just a few more weeks to go and you'll be celebrating at the finish line!

I have to disagree with one statement here. Well fitted shoes should not need a "break in" and this type of blister is not a "break in". That would be more likely on the heels etc.

I agree with other posters if you bought these at a good running store head back in there with them and the BLISTER. My store would replace them, but a good store should at least figure out what is wrong. Sounds like you are buying shoes based on something besides the fitting. Really go get fitted! Cute etc is NOT a consdieration. What folks on here wear is NOT a consideration. I wear Brooks and Muznos. Can't wear Asiacs at all. They all fit differently and all our feet are different!

Two if you are running in cotton socks CHANGE! I run in pretty costly running socks from Wright, but they don't rub, wick the sweat away and are well worth it IMHO!

 

[dsnyfan21]

I agree with going to a good running store. They will evaluate you gait, see how you walk, listen to your training and size your feet. They should suggest a few different shoes. They will have you walk around in them and maybe use a treadmill for a while. Tlak to them about your blister and have them suggest a good sock/ shoe combo.
No for socks - I CANNOT wear the wrightsocks. I wear the Features or the Thorlo with medium padding. I like my thorlos and am going to try there latest socks the Experias. Now what ever type of sock you think you are going to wear while training and doing the race is the kind you should be trying on the shoes with. Don't wear your "everyday" or cotton socks if that is not what you are going to wear while training. Also don't try on shoes with the thinner socks if in the end you are going to wear a more padded sock. the shoes won't fit right.
Lot to think about and that is why going to a good Local Running store is a good idea!!

Tracy
BTW: Glide on your feet is a good idea. I use it all over my feet. Also, it is recommended that runners/walkers take good care of there feet. Keep them moisturized. I have had suggestions from more experienced runners/walkers that the day before a race to slather on bagbalm on your feet and put plastic bags over them for a few hours to help eliminate blisters.
Try what works for you.

 

[Caitsmama]

Agree, on the shoe thing.. I have a $100 pair of Brooks, that i got at a running store, yet, i don't care for them. I thought they were "good" for me, and that is what they suggested, but i can't do long distances in them.. LOL That being said, my sis has the same exact pair of Brooks, and she loves them.
I love love love my $40 clearance pair of Saucony's!! LOL Believe it or not..
So,you really can't go by the kind/type of shoe that is "popular" or whatever, but i think that for you to have a blister that bad, it's the wrong shoe for you!

 

[DISNEYDUET]

Stacy I have run in Saucony forever. Lived in them. I had been having some hip pain and was told to try the new Brooks Ariel. Let me tell ya sista I love them!!!! They have been the most amazing shoes right out of the box. The real test will be in a few week during the Princess. I would have never ever looked at Brooks had a running partner not recommened them to me. The number one tool you need for running is the proper shoe. Can't stress that enough!

 

[Jyl189]

hey all i am getting so nervous!! its finally hitting me that it is less then a month away.. i feel so under prepared! anyone else? i think 90% is mental for me.. how can i get over it?!
Im at the point where i wish it was today! im stressed!

 

[wtpclc]

Meg - The only time my feet have burned is when i needed new shoes. How aold are yous?

jyl - HOw did you feel when you started whatever program you were one? Did you feel like you would be doing what yuo are now? You just need to have faith that your program has gotten you every step of the way so far and will nto let you down come race day.

2Boysmom - It's great to ocme here and celebrate victories togetehr. However, I think the true meaning of WISH is picking people up when they're down, supporting and encouraging them. Trust me, everyone who posts here has had those awful days. You know what? I have learned more from those awful days than any of my great PR days adn that learning is why I have those PR days.

 

[syko]

2Boysmom, I can't offer any advice with the water belts, but for shoes have you ever tryed MBT's??
My husband, who runs has allways used oasics, and been professionaly fitted says that he is going to run the goofy next year in his MBT's.
It is a different way of walking / running, but is very comfy once you get use to it.
As for the weight gain, I have health problems, and I gained 50lbs in 3 months last year. I have not been able to shift any of it.
I know how upsetting it can be, but with you exercise your body will gain a new shape, you may be thinner and need smaller clothes, but with the muscle you can / will weigh more.
I know its hard but try to forget about the scales(I need to follow my own advice!!!) you are getting exercise, thats the most important thing to staying healthy.

Today I went on the road to avoid the tree from yesterday, but scraped up my chair when I came off the path today on a different corner, I really have a large turning circle, so I will love the road work in the races, but hate it in the parks!!!
My top speed on the stright today was 15.6 (if only I could keep it up) and I did 10 miles, again in 1 hour, so I was faster than yesterday.
Just to let you know the pros go 30 / 35mph on the stright!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[joan4mickey]

Syko Guess you won't have a problem with keeping pace!

 

[hoosmi]

2Boysmom- Everyone's advice is great. All I can say is look at the positives. You stuck with a long run when you were hungry, thirsty, and uncomfortable! All of that is fixable- start eating a bit more before you go out, try out different water strategies (I'd rather hold a bottle than deal with a belt, but it's totally personal preference), and some new double layer socks will hopefully fix those blisters!

Did you maybe start out too fast when you did your 7.5 miles? I did 4 yesterday and intentionally tried to run the first mile about 30 seconds faster than normal--- I never recovered. Every mile was drudgery and I had to stop and walk some, which I rarely do. Maybe you made the same mistake too?

As for the weight gain, I hear you! I'm trying not to worry too much about my weight right now (4 month old baby!). I can tell you when I trained for the Goofy pre-baby, I lost about 10 pounds by the very end. However, I was much smaller in my clothes. My mom is in retail and has a good eye- I had her guess my weight- she was 20 pounds under reality! (I let her think she was off by about 10 ). So, I'm trying to think more in terms of how I look, and not how much I weigh. (Before you slap me for being so pious, I have to confess I've been on my scale twice today...)

Jen in GA

 

[Caitsmama]

Wow!! That is moooovin'!! You go!

 

[syko]

Prob old news but the Princess is 95% full!!!!!
Looks like it will sell out.....I read somewhere that the total would be 10,000!!!

 

[TnTsParty]

2Boysmom - to answer you question about the water stops. Some of the water stops are just water and then there are ones closer to the end that are water and Powerade (the yellow one - lemon-lime I think) They use the powdered kind - since all of this makes a difference taste-wise. If Powerade or the yellow flavor one doesn't sit well with you then it would be wise to carry your own.

As far as water belts my one with 4 bottles is made by Fuel Belt (I think that is the name on there) and the one with the single bottle I am not sure of the brand since I got it for Christmas - I am pretty sure it came from Target though. It has a pocket on the front for you MP3 player but I put my cell phone in there and then I can see the time through the "window"

Funny story about the cell phone in the "window" pocket is that during the marathon around mile 4 it was still somewhat dark out and my DH was calling my phone to see how I was doing (since he wasn't with me at the start line) I didn't realize he was calling so he must have called a bunch of times - someone behind me said something to me and told me they had been watching the thing light up for a little bit and thought it was cool!! LOL

Back on topic - I want to agree with Carol that no running shoe should have to have a "break in" period. Your shoes should feel comfortable from the first time you lace them up. Everyone's feet are different and the best thing to do is try them on at a good running store. They should have people who are knowledgable about the shoes and what they are good for. Then try on a selection of the shoes and try them out in the store - my store has a treadmill or you can go outside up and down the sidewalk. This is better then basing the decision on a good or bad review. If you bought the shoes that gave you the blister at a good running store take them back with the socks you were wearing and talk to someone there about it - they maybe able to point you in the right direction.

 

[wtpclc]

Tricia - The cell phone story is funnny!

2boysmom - I have an amphipod belt. I turn teh bottles sidesways or just put 2 in front adn 2 in back to keep them away frm my elbows.