The Running Thread - 2016

[CheapRunnerMike]

RE: Boston – I’m sitting on a BQ minus 3:30 so my window will open next Monday. I’m cautiously optimistic as everything I’m reading has the cutoff very close to the listed standards.

You have every reason to be optimistic...that's a great time and you shouldn't have any problem getting in!

 

[Anisum]

Along this same topic, has anyone here used Tailwind?

http://www.tailwindnutrition.com/

While watching my husband run his first 50K recently, I heard a lot of the runners saying they were using it and most of those were passing up other fuel at the fuel stop. The website talks like it's all you need from a hydration/fuel standpoint. We've been using Replay lately for our electrolyte drink and once I got used to the taste I really feel like it works well, but I'm also curious about this.

I used Tailwind once when it came in my box. For that reason I wouldn't be able to tell you too much about how it makes me feel overall but I found at the time the effect to be similar to most hydration supplements. What I didn't like was the flavor more than anything. I don't usually like orange flavored drinks (this actually tasted like the 'orange drink' our regional convenience store chain donated to kids sporting events) though and the pack I had gotten was Mandarin Orange. I also thought 200 calories per 20-24oz of water was a lot for a hydration supplement but given that it seems to be used more in the Ultra community I can see where that might be desirable.

 

[michigandergirl]

Playing catch up again...

Congrats to everyone that raced this weekend!
@Baloo in MI Congrats ultra-marathoner! Sounds like a fun race, but I'm not ready to tackle that distance yet.

@Keels wishing you a speedy recovery and hope you can get to Dopey training soon. I also like the Higdon plans and will likely be using the Dopey plan next year.

ATTQOTD: I mainly use Clif Shot Bloks (haven't had a flavor I didn't like). Recently for my marathon training I've been experimenting with using the bloks and gels. I'm finding that the Huma gels are good for me - previously all other Gels are either too thick or upset my stomach. I've come to the conclusion I can't really stomach any actual food on my long runs - instant GI upset.

Speaking of long runs, many of my recent long runs have not gone well, and I know that's just part of training, but it was really starting to mess with my head. The heat & humidity has been awful and I know that's a huge part of my struggle. Yesterday I did 17 Miles and it felt amazing! The cooler weather and lack of humidity did wonders for me. I really needed that boost of confidence.

 

[camaker]

ATTQOTD: Currently I am using raw honey. I used it in my last 2 races and it worked well for me. But the reasoning for it was because I was not eating processed sugar and as I have slowly started letting it slip back into my diet, I may just go back to my M&M's and Candy Corn. I cannot stomach Gu's of any kind or brand. I liked the Honey Stinger Waffles but they upset my stomach if I eat too many of them so I don't think they would work for me for my marathon training. I haven't tried any blocks or sport beans yet. :/

If the raw honey base works for you, you might want to look at the Honey Stinger Ginsting or Gold gels. They are very similar to the taste and texture of raw honey and come in the convenient gel packs with additional electrolytes.

 

[Ariel484]

The 13 year old in me is laughing...

ATTQOTD: I'm a huge Jelly Belly fan, so really it's a no-brainer for me - beans.

I had to spell it out like that, otherwise the DIS would filter it! Like so: Dick's

EDIT: OMG! They didn't filter it! Shows what I know!

 

[BuckeyeBama]

Can I ask a totally random question? I am training for a 15k (9.2 miles) in 7+ weeks and the particular race sends on these "training plan" emails every week. I know to take them with a grain of salt, because no plan fits every person. But it weirds me out how much mileage they are asking for every time I read them.
This week they have some easy mid-week runs and a "speed-type" 6 mile workout which is right in line with what I'm doing. But the long run is 10-14 miles! I noticed they had like 9 miles a few weeks ago.
Why would you have to run more than a half-marathon this far out from a 9.2 mile race? Did some intern accidentally use a marathon plan?

My best answer - Want to make a 10 mile run feel easy? Run 15 miles.

 

[DopeyBadger]

Can I ask a totally random question? I am training for a 15k (9.2 miles) in 7+ weeks and the particular race sends on these "training plan" emails every week. I know to take them with a grain of salt, because no plan fits every person. But it weirds me out how much mileage they are asking for every time I read them.
This week they have some easy mid-week runs and a "speed-type" 6 mile workout which is right in line with what I'm doing. But the long run is 10-14 miles! I noticed they had like 9 miles a few weeks ago.
Why would you have to run more than a half-marathon this far out from a 9.2 mile race? Did some intern accidentally use a marathon plan?

There are lots of reasons why this plan might be useful to some people. However, it's a good example why not every plan will work well for everyone. I might (haven't decided yet) train for a 5K/10K next Spring. Even though the race/races may be 3.1 miles or 6.2 miles, I would still likely train in the 50-70 weekly mile range with my long run still around 13-18 miles. Essentially, as long as the race is beyond the "mile" working on lactate threshold and running economy (i.e the "long run") still play a pivotal role in finishing fast. This means a high end plan for competing in a 5k, 10K, or 15K would very likely include runs similar to a marathon (i.e running for 2.5 hours). So it's possible the 15k training plan could work for some people who receive your email (Hot Chocolate 15k is a very large race), but for most (and especially those completing their first one like yourself) it's probably way too much.

 

[FFigawi]

Along this same topic, has anyone here used Tailwind?

http://www.tailwindnutrition.com/

While watching my husband run his first 50K recently, I heard a lot of the runners saying they were using it and most of those were passing up other fuel at the fuel stop. The website talks like it's all you need from a hydration/fuel standpoint. We've been using Replay lately for our electrolyte drink and once I got used to the taste I really feel like it works well, but I'm also curious about this.

I have several friends who use it for marathons, ultras, and long distance tris. They swear by it. I've never tried it because it's not available over here. I plan to pick some up when I'm home for my Ironman and give it a shot over the winter.

 

[JulieODC]

I've never used any kind of fuel -- but also haven't done many long runs (my 7mile run on Sunday is my longest yet!) -- but I am thinking about getting a few to sample (I sometimes feel like a little boost somewhere around 5-6 miles would be nice). I think I'd prefer some chewable, over the thinner consistency options.

 

[BuckeyeBama]

Along this same topic, has anyone here used Tailwind?

http://www.tailwindnutrition.com/

While watching my husband run his first 50K recently, I heard a lot of the runners saying they were using it and most of those were passing up other fuel at the fuel stop. The website talks like it's all you need from a hydration/fuel standpoint. We've been using Replay lately for our electrolyte drink and once I got used to the taste I really feel like it works well, but I'm also curious about this.

Because it wouldn't be offered on the course as a prepared liquid, and because I don't like mixing things during a race, I wouldn't use a product like this. I need to train with the same exact product that I plan on using during my race, and I know myself too well to believe that I would use this during a race. If I ever decide to wear my Camelbak during a race, I might consider one of these options (this, e-Fuel, etc.).

 

[DopeyBadger]

I'll add my reasoning for E-Gel, check out their comparisons against others: link

-Complex Carbs with dual carb source - research shows this is the best combo
-Low sugar - less sold on this one, but yes I'd agree it's likely true from a blood glucose standpoint
-Much Higher electrolyte content than competition - close to ACSM recommendation of 500mg Sodium and 200mg Potassium per 34 oz water (remember every 2 g carb needs 1 oz water, no matter what your source)
-No artificial sweeteners
-Isotonic solution - means rapid absorption, but I'd argue this is true of any product as long as you meet the 2g carb to 1 oz water
-Antioxidants - helps with muscle soreness, but probably not beneficial until post run
-Rapid Mix - only relevant to E-Fuel, but personally I find it mixes "ok". Better than Hammer, but worse than Powerbar. However after consuming 34 servings of 8 oz I tend to get grumpy.
-Gluten free and no artificial color, flavor or sweeteners - personally this doesn't sway me, but to some it might matter

Pro/Con - At 37g per package it can be seen as a good thing and bad thing. Less packages per serving, but to some consuming 37 g carbs (or 18.5 oz water) is a bit much. Granted the 18.5 oz water just needs to be consumed between packages, but that can still be a lot of water for some.

 

[opusone]

Can I ask a totally random question? I am training for a 15k (9.2 miles) in 7+ weeks and the particular race sends on these "training plan" emails every week. I know to take them with a grain of salt, because no plan fits every person. But it weirds me out how much mileage they are asking for every time I read them.
This week they have some easy mid-week runs and a "speed-type" 6 mile workout which is right in line with what I'm doing. But the long run is 10-14 miles! I noticed they had like 9 miles a few weeks ago.
Why would you have to run more than a half-marathon this far out from a 9.2 mile race? Did some intern accidentally use a marathon plan?

It sounds like you are likely getting the advanced training plan e-mails. From the Hot Chocolate 15k website, they are using McMillan training plans, and there are four options: new runner, first time race, a new PR, and advanced runner. With that type of mileage for the long run seven weeks out for a 15k, it definitely seems like you are seeing the advanced plan. The new runner or first time race plan would be nowhere near that.

 

[Barca33Runner]

I'm not a big fan of the stickiness either, but I only take them right before a water stop, try to be careful not to get too much on my fingers, and then I use the last bit of water in my cup to wash off my hands.

That's where my lack of coordination comes into play; I think I'd make an even bigger mess of things trying to wash my hands on the go.

 

[roxymama]

I've never used any kind of fuel -- but also haven't done many long runs (my 7mile run on Sunday is my longest yet!) -- but I am thinking about getting a few to sample (I sometimes feel like a little boost somewhere around 5-6 miles would be nice). I think I'd prefer some chewable, over the thinner consistency options.

I have my first 7 mile training run coming up this week. Twins!

It sounds like you are likely getting the advanced training plan e-mails. From the Hot Chocolate 15k website, they are using McMillan training plans, and there are four options: new runner, first time race, a new PR, and advanced runner. With that type of mileage for the long run seven weeks out for a 15k, it definitely seems like you are seeing the advanced plan. The new runner or first time race plan would be nowhere near that.

What everyone has said makes a lot of sense now. I'm glad that I asked. Like the baseball hitters who swing the heavy bat before taking the lighter one up to the plate, right? Thanks for the detective work opusone.
I ran the hot chocolate 5k last year which shares corrals with the 15k. I was in corral C out of M I think because of my 5k proof. There were some truly athletic looking humans with me, but I knew a lot of them were doing the longer race. I have preferred corral status this year based on last years results (but again...5k.) So that's probably why they think I should get that plan.
Not quite ready to be like the olympic 5k/10k guy who runs 100+ miles every week. But I'm understanding now what's going on with those emails.

 

[Deffenm]

I am new to "running" and would love to join in. I completed my first half marathon in April. I walked/jogged it. My goal was not to come in last, which I didn't. I am planning to do another half in a few weeks and once again my goal is to not come in last. I have not been training like I should so it is going to be a rough race. I have a 4 miler and 15k also planned this year. I would like to be able to run those without walking. I can currently run 3 miles but that is about it. My ultimate goal is to complete the Dopey challenge in 2018. Does anyone know of a training plan to help one prepare for that challenge? I do much better if I follow a plan.

 

[RunDisneyDad]

You have a room booked already?

I have . Although I'm very superstitious I'm also very practical so I grabbed a room downtown as soon Marathon Tours made rooms available.

I heard the last chance marathons this past weekend didn't have the best weather and thus the number of BQ'ers was lower.

 

[Ariel484]

I am new to "running" and would love to join in. I completed my first half marathon in April. I walked/jogged it. My goal was not to come in last, which I didn't. I am planning to do another half in a few weeks and once again my goal is to not come in last. I have not been training like I should so it is going to be a rough race. I have a 4 miler and 15k also planned this year. I would like to be able to run those without walking. I can currently run 3 miles but that is about it. My ultimate goal is to complete the Dopey challenge in 2018. Does anyone know of a training plan to help one prepare for that challenge? I do much better if I follow a plan.

Welcome!!

I would suggest looking for some shorter races to do so that you can sort of naturally progress to Dopey in 2018. You've got your 4-miler and 15K - you'll need at least a 10-miler for proof of time, so maybe look for one of those to do sometime next year, maybe a local half marathon after that? If you train for gradually longer races, that should put you in good position to start Dopey training in 2017.

Highly recommend Hal Higdon or Jeff Galloway plans:
http://halhigdon.com/
http://www.rundisney.com/training/running/

 

[baxter24]

ATTQOTD: Gu (for long runs 9+ miles) and water. I sometimes drink Powerade if they have it during race stops but don't carry it with me. Tend to stay in the berry flavored range for Gu.

 

[cavepig]

ATTQOTD - I use Clif shots/gels - I've only had Razberry & Citrus. I want to try other flavors but need to finish up what I have on hand & I'm wanting a salty or non fruity flavor to mix in but not sure which kind to try. I've tried the Clif shot blocks & sports beans but don't really care for them. I also bring my handheld amphipod with Gatorade on long runs or on really hot days no matter the distance. On my 12 miler Saturday I had one gel half way through, I was out 2 hrs and like 6 or so minutes for reference. For me personal, fueling earlier and more often even if in just the form of an electrolyte drink helps me in the long run. Oh and I dislike Heed drink, Hammer's electrolyte drink, it was at local half and was gross & did not sit well, their gels are okay but I prefer Clif.

 

[ZellyB]

I am new to "running" and would love to join in. I completed my first half marathon in April. I walked/jogged it. My goal was not to come in last, which I didn't. I am planning to do another half in a few weeks and once again my goal is to not come in last. I have not been training like I should so it is going to be a rough race. I have a 4 miler and 15k also planned this year. I would like to be able to run those without walking. I can currently run 3 miles but that is about it. My ultimate goal is to complete the Dopey challenge in 2018. Does anyone know of a training plan to help one prepare for that challenge? I do much better if I follow a plan.

Welcome and congrats on completing your first half marathon!!

I've always used Galloway's plans (although I haven't yet done Dopey - only Goofy) and they worked well for me. Galloway's beginner plan (the one @Ariel484 ) posted is really just designed to get you across the finish lines upright - and if you follow them, they will do that for you. Higdon's plans involve more miles of training and likely set you up for finishing stronger and with a better performance. Not all plans work for everyone, so I'd encourage to look over a few and see what will work for you. The best plan for anyone is the one that they can stick to and works with their life.