Calling all Princesses! (2014 Princess Half Marathon Weekend)- thread #2

[BernardandMissBianca]

Got an 11 mile run in on the treadmill Friday. I had hoped to get outside but it was 7 degrees out so that was not happening. I did put tiger balm on my legs before my run and I had no cramping at all. I was so happy!
However my knee started to hurt again so I'm worried about that. And I got a huge hot spot on the bottom of my foot. I was trying out new socks, needless to say those will not be coming with me. Due to the knee and to foot, I walked the last 2 miles. I still clocked a 14:04 pace though, so I was happy.
I was doing 5.5/3.5 mph 1/1 intervals but dropped down to 5.0/3.5 and was able to maintain a 3/1 run walk interval.
I did drink a lot of water it seemed, so I need to figure out the water stops and start working on the water breaks. I also ate a stingers waffle at mile 6 and mile 9 and was good to go.
Now I need to work on outfits, I really like my Athleta capris but they only have one pocket, so I'm not sure what to do about my waffles.

Not this week but next week, I will do a dress rehearsal and do all 3 races to see how I feel.

 

[laura428]

Oh. Wow.

Ladies, THIS is the kind of stuff that made me decide to take the leap in the first place. You guys are so amazing.

Words of Wisdom: DEEP BREATH. Inhale Blue, Exhale Pink. Repeat, repeat, repeat!...
And after all, did I sign up for this race for a PR? NO. I signed up because it sounded like a total blast! So that's what I'm focusing on: having a good time.

So breathe, let your body heal, and let things take care of themselves. It will all work out, I promise!

Heather - I'm seriously going to start thinking "Inhale Blue, Exhale Pink" on my next run. Your message was the first one I read after my post, and it seriously brought tears to my eyes. Thank you thank you thank you.

...I actually think that you would be surprised at how far your training will get you. ...

Although I am slower than most I look forward to chatting with some of you or even some new faces when I am there.

I'm hoping you're right! I know that the adrenaline will help, and after watching a few of the RAD videos and seeing all of the fun things along the way, I feel like that will help to keep me going. And YES - meeting new friends is definitely another thing to look forward to!

My plan was simply to put one foot in front of the other and get the miles in anyway I could. What other choice did I have?? I wasn't going to cancel the trip, or blow off the race, I had put too much into getting there. And you know what? I did finish the race, clocked the worst pace I had ever clocked before but I didn't care, I got to the finish line when just days before I didn't know if I'd be able to. And, I had an awesome time!!!!

Yes!!! I honestly don't care when I cross that finish line. (Ok... maybe I care a little.) But I really did start this journey to do something great for me, to honor my dad who would have loved to have seen me do this, and to show my kids that you really can do anything. AND to have an awesome time!

You will make it!! ...
We need to figure out a meetup of solo runners - we can all use the support.

YES!!! I would love to figure out how to make that happen. Did anyone else reserve the Race Retreat? Going to the Pasta in the Park party on Friday night? Maybe we could make that work...?

 

[jmasgat]

laura428 Re: your foot pain. Could it be plantar fasciitis? Does it feel tight/sore on the bottom of your foot? Does it hurt when you walk? If yes to any, you might try rolling your foot on a tennis ball and then applying gentle pressure to spots where it hurts. As for your shins/calves, have you tried stretching them out? Sorry you're running into issues (pun not intended!). Take the time to let yourself heal from your issues. You still have time before the race to get in some quality training.

There is a WISH meet planned for Princess weekend on Saturday at 5pm outside Earl of Sandwich in DTD. Hope to meet people there. Details also posted on the Facebook WISH page.

As for me, I gave in to the weather (snowy, cold, windy) and did my 14 miles at the gym on the TM. Well, actually 3 TM, since one of my strategies for making it through a long TM run is to break it into 5 mile chunks--my fuel stip--and then switch TM. The run was fine, but I still have no solution for my blistered feet. After all my time running, and trying everything under the sun, they still blister.

Time for coffee,chocolate and some rest!

 

[MaMa3Princess]

laura428 Re: your foot pain. Could it be plantar fasciitis? Does it feel tight/sore on the bottom of your foot? Does it hurt when you walk? If yes to any, you might try rolling your foot on a tennis ball and then applying gentle pressure to spots where it hurts. As for your shins/calves, have you tried stretching them out? Sorry you're running into issues (pun not intended!). Take the time to let yourself heal from your issues. You still have time before the race to get in some quality training.

There is a WISH meet planned for Princess weekend on Saturday at 5pm outside Earl of Sandwich in DTD. Hope to meet people there. Details also posted on the Facebook WISH page.

As for me, I gave in to the weather (snowy, cold, windy) and did my 14 miles at the gym on the TM. Well, actually 3 TM, since one of my strategies for making it through a long TM run is to break it into 5 mile chunks--my fuel stip--and then switch TM. The run was fine, but I still have no solution for my blistered feet. After all my time running, and trying everything under the sun, they still blister.

Time for coffee,chocolate and some rest!

Thanks for the info on the meet up!! I hope I meet some fellow Princesses!
I like the idea of switching treadmills after 5 miles.
Enjoy your chocolate after that 14 miles.

 

[sabnrob06]

There is a WISH meet planned for Princess weekend on Saturday at 5pm outside Earl of Sandwich in DTD. Hope to meet people there. Details also posted on the Facebook WISH page.

HI! Can you post the link for the FB page? I searched and can't seem to find it! Thanks

 

[jmasgat]

Link for the event....

https://www.facebook.com/events/694090710631046/

Link for the group....

https://www.facebook.com/groups/24152623077/

But it looks like you beat me to it and found it!

 

[STILLWISHING]

Don't think I can make the meetup but will be at race retreat before and after - who's in for that ?

 

[MickeyMinnieMom]

I am LOVING all of the great runs you guys are posting! Thank you for sharing - it's really helping to keep me focused on the light at the end of the tunnel.

Which leads me to my state of mind at the moment - I need you, Princesses.

It's been tough getting my runs in the last few weeks. I went to see my doctor last Monday for my headaches and my GI issues (sorry if TMI!) because both have really been getting in the way of my training. She's pretty sure the migraines I've had since childhood are still front and center and prescribed a med to cut them off at the pass. But it's not working. She said that if I go through all of the pills she prescribed in a month's time, that she'll want to prescribe something to take daily. Unfortunately, it's looking like I'll go through this med in just a few weeks, and the worry about the daily med is that it would lower my already low blood pressure. Really really frustrated with this, but even more so with my GI issues. Last Sunday, it kept me from running any farther than 4 miles. My longest thus far is 8.5, and I'm really starting to worry that I won't make the full 13.1.

And then yesterday, my heel really starting hurting, then into the middle of the sole of my foot. Then up my ankle and into my shin. And then the other. What the heck is this?? I tried icing last night and, although it felt great while I was icing, it really didn't help. I'm afraid to jump on the TM today. What would you do? I could really use the advice of the amazing women here.

Ok.. and one more... I'm so sorry for this big vent. My friend who signed up with me has just told me that she's not sure she's going to run. She's still going with me, of course, but I think she's had so much going on that she hasn't trained enough to feel confident about the race. I love her dearly and really do look forward to having a girls' weekend with her, but I'm honestly sad. For me, this weekend is all about empowerment, about challenging yourself to do things you never thought you could do, and about supporting one another and lifting each other up. I originally signed up for this race on my own, so excited to do this for me and to meet other women doing it for themselves. When my friend decided to jump in with me, I was so happy at the thought of us doing this together, struggling through it but then doing it and celebrating after. I sound awful, I know... it's just a letdown at a time when I really need a partner, you know?

Sorry for the vent... if you've read this, thank you. And if you have any words of wisdom, I'd so appreciate your thoughts. Thanks Princesses...

Not sure I can help at all with the specifics, but I just wanted to add my support and some !

I agree with a PP who said you could be surprised by how far your training can take you. Having battled migraines at times, I am also impressed by the distances you've covered with them!

How disappointing about your friend. It sounds like you're already starting to focus on still having that girls' weekend, though.

All of that said, if your health issues make this race too difficult to run, I wouldn't risk real damage - particularly to the foot if it doesn't get better. Lucky for all of us, Disney has several races a year... and you can still have a great girls' weekend away with your friend.

I'll be sending you lots of !!

 

[Imbri]

I am LOVING all of the great runs you guys are posting! Thank you for sharing - it's really helping to keep me focused on the light at the end of the tunnel. Which leads me to my state of mind at the moment - I need you, Princesses. It's been tough getting my runs in the last few weeks. I went to see my doctor last Monday for my headaches and my GI issues (sorry if TMI!) because both have really been getting in the way of my training. She's pretty sure the migraines I've had since childhood are still front and center and prescribed a med to cut them off at the pass. But it's not working. She said that if I go through all of the pills she prescribed in a month's time, that she'll want to prescribe something to take daily. Unfortunately, it's looking like I'll go through this med in just a few weeks, and the worry about the daily med is that it would lower my already low blood pressure. Really really frustrated with this, but even more so with my GI issues. Last Sunday, it kept me from running any farther than 4 miles. My longest thus far is 8.5, and I'm really starting to worry that I won't make the full 13.1. And then yesterday, my heel really starting hurting, then into the middle of the sole of my foot. Then up my ankle and into my shin. And then the other. What the heck is this?? I tried icing last night and, although it felt great while I was icing, it really didn't help. I'm afraid to jump on the TM today. What would you do? I could really use the advice of the amazing women here. Ok.. and one more... I'm so sorry for this big vent. My friend who signed up with me has just told me that she's not sure she's going to run. She's still going with me, of course, but I think she's had so much going on that she hasn't trained enough to feel confident about the race. I love her dearly and really do look forward to having a girls' weekend with her, but I'm honestly sad. For me, this weekend is all about empowerment, about challenging yourself to do things you never thought you could do, and about supporting one another and lifting each other up. I originally signed up for this race on my own, so excited to do this for me and to meet other women doing it for themselves. When my friend decided to jump in with me, I was so happy at the thought of us doing this together, struggling through it but then doing it and celebrating after. I sound awful, I know... it's just a letdown at a time when I really need a partner, you know? Sorry for the vent... if you've read this, thank you. And if you have any words of wisdom, I'd so appreciate your thoughts. Thanks Princesses...

I only have experience with one issue, the GI stuff. Do you mind me asking what kind I issues? (Message me, if you'd like. )

I was diagnosed in HS with IBS. It only really flares up with stress (I know for most it's triggered by certain foods, mine is mostly stress related). Getting into shape/running has helped it a lot, but my longer runs were...awful. On bad days, I'd get 3 miles before NEEDING a potty break, 5 miles on a good day. Recently I found a sports drink mix ( UCAN ) that got me to 2 hours before I had to use a bathroom (about 8 miles, I think?). I've only used it once, so on my next long run this week, I'll be making sure it wasn't a fluke, but maybe it's worth checking out?

 

[afnaechiquita]

i am a bit disgruntled i always preach here and other groups that it's more important to rest than run on an injury, and that if you can do half the distance in the months leading up to the race, you can take yourself the full distance on race day, but practicing what i preach is hard!

a week ago i had a pain in my lower back. it was dull all the time, but became sharp with movement and walking was difficult. i knew it was muscular so figured i could just give it a rest. the weird thing was i had not run at all the week preceding to it (felt sick), so i don't know what happened. the week following, nothing changed, so the dr at work tried different muscle relaxers/pain relievers on me, and nothing worked, but helped me sleep a lot. we also did a run on the TENS. i didn't feel relief from it like i have when using it for other muscle cramps.

she referred me to a chiro here, who felt around and determined i set off a trigger point which led to the muscle spasm. i told him i was running a half in a month, so he decided to do physiotherapy, TENS, and low light laser on the area daily for a week. they also gave me pain patches to wear.

two days after the first visit and i can walk again, although i sometimes feel the sharp pain. i feel like i could run again though, but i know i shouldn't. it's too close to risk setting something else off.

this is a frustrating feeling though. i did 9.5 miles earlier this month so i am not worried about finishing. i guess i just feel a bit bummed that i felt like i could probably shave 5-10 minutes off my last half time but without the last few weeks of training, that doesn't feel possible now.

i just needed a whinge. :|

to make this a little more productive - i was going to start a new cross-training routine before this all happened. anyone have any recommendations for things i can still do that will be easy on the back? i'm also wondering if i could at least get on the recumbent bike now?

 

[charmed1212]

Don't think I can make the meetup but will be at race retreat before and after - who's in for that ?

I will be! I can't make the meet and greet since that will be my only day that I can roam Disney.

 

[jmasgat]

anyone have any recommendations for things i can still do that will be easy on the back? i'm also wondering if i could at least get on the recumbent bike now?

I would think the bike would be fine. Also, if you get to a point where walking isn't painful then maybe an elliptical trainer. Stairclimber is also a possibility. The last two you'd just have to try and see, but they don't put the pounding on you that running does, and if you can tolerate them, it's something. And there is always weight training--perhaps some core strengthening exercises (which would ultimately be good for the back)

Hope your back improves soon.

 

[STILLWISHING]

[L i :| to make this a little more productive - i was going to start a new cross-training routine before this all happened. anyone have any recommendations for things i can still do that will be easy on the back? i'm also wondering if i could at least get on the recumbent bike now?[/QUOTE] do you have access to a swimming pool? Low impact and cardio plus helps with core strength which helps the back? I am no expert but it's worth a go

 

[afnaechiquita]

[L i :| to make this a little more productive - i was going to start a new cross-training routine before this all happened. anyone have any recommendations for things i can still do that will be easy on the back? i'm also wondering if i could at least get on the recumbent bike now?

do you have access to a swimming pool? Low impact and cardio plus helps with core strength which helps the back? I am no expert but it's worth a go[/QUOTE]

i do in fact... i'm in 80 degree weather with a large pool outside i've never done pool workouts though. any recommendations?

thanks also jmasgat - i might give the elliptical a try too if the bike goes well.

 

[longhorns2]

Hey y'all! We are putting together a blog hop within formation for princess half! If you blog or even if you don't but want to be included, check it out! All phm are hoped to be covered in this one!

http://margaritasmilesandmouse.blogspot.com/2014/01/princess-half-weekend-veteran-bloggers.html

 

[appleorchard]

Don't think I can make the meetup but will be at race retreat before and after - who's in for that ?

I'll be at the race retreat! It seemed worth it because I know I'll be a nervous wreck and will need the bathrooms-- numerous times lol.

 

[PrincessV]

My longest thus far is 8.5, and I'm really starting to worry that I won't make the full 13.1.

Okay, here's the deal: while only going up to 8.5 before a half maybe isn't ideal, it's absolutely doable. I've gone into almost every race under-trained thanks to injuries and can attest that it's possible! The key here is realistic expectations: plan to finish, not to PR; focus on the fun; take a lesson form Jeff Galloway, who recommends (and I can vouch for it) walking the difference between your longest training distance and the race distance. So if you only get to 8.5, plan to walk 4+ of the race. You can split that up however you want - walk a few miles in the beginning, spread it out with a 1/4 of every mile, save it for the end, whatever, but it's an approach that will get you across the finish.

And then yesterday, my heel really starting hurting, then into the middle of the sole of my foot. Then up my ankle and into my shin. And then the other. What the heck is this?? I tried icing last night and, although it felt great while I was icing, it really didn't help. I'm afraid to jump on the TM today. What would you do?

See a doc. Really, 4 weeks out is still time for recovery, but only if you don't delay in finding out what's going on. Make a diagnosis a priority!

For me, this weekend is all about empowerment, about challenging yourself to do things you never thought you could do, and about supporting one another and lifting each other up.

There's no getting around missing your buddy on the run... but I think you'll find that the entire race is about the very things you mentioned and that gigantic crowd of fellow Princesses will lift you up and encourage you to do your best! And then you can party with your friend, who will be rested and ready to celebrate with you.

i am a bit disgruntled i always preach here and other groups that it's more important to rest than run on an injury, and that if you can do half the distance in the months leading up to the race, you can take yourself the full distance on race day, but practicing what i preach is hard!

Right?! Oh, how I know how that goes. So, here...

DON'T RUN!!!

From one preacher-not-practicer to another. Hang in there and keep healing.

 

[PrincessV]

I am ridiculously happy to report that I did a back-to-back mini GSC this weekend... with no pain!!! 4 miles Saturday: mostly walked, with some 30-sec runs tossed in here and there for an avg pace of 14:25/mile. 10 miles Sunday with a good amount of walking, too, until the halfway point - with no pain then, I began putting in more running each mile and, including a bunch of stops to refill my water bottle, re-tie shoes, use a restroom, watch a hawk, etc., finished with an avg of 14:18/mile. My legs didn't feel at all tired on the 10-miler, so I'm no longer worried about the back-to-back-to-back.

I'm very happy with that! I know now I can either walk most of all 3 races if my knee needs it, or walk most of the first two and run a lot more of the half if I feel up to it. That's a big relief.

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

I am ridiculously happy to report that I did a back-to-back mini GSC this weekend... with no pain!!! 4 miles Saturday: mostly walked, with some 30-sec runs tossed in here and there for an av pace of 14:25/mile. 10 miles Sunday with a good amount of walking, too, until the halfway point - with no pain then, I began putting in more running each mile and, including a bunch of stops to refill my water bottle, re-tie shoes, use a restroom, watch a hawk, etc. finished with an avg of 14:18/mile. My legs didn't feel at all tired on the 10-miler, so I'm no loner worried about the back-to-back-to-back.

I'm very happy with that! I know now I can either walk most of all 3 races if my knee needs it, or walk most of the first two and run a lot more of the half if I feel up to it. That's a big relief.

WOOHOO!!! Great job!
I plan on doing my dress rehearsal next Wed/Thurs/Fri.

 

[STILLWISHING]

I'll be at the race retreat! It seemed worth it because I know I'll be a nervous wreck and will need the bathrooms-- numerous times lol.

yes!! Almost embarrassed to say that is why I did it - that and the possibility of cold temps

Speaking of bathrooms, does anyone have a suggestion for ideal inside the park bathrooms for a pit stop? I scoped a couple in November and thinking Rapunzels may be "ahem" the way to go.