Tower of Terror 10 Miler 2014

[sunshine girl]

Will magic bands be accepted at the expo? I hope so, was kinda looking forward to just leaving wallet in safe at room.

I would NOT count on it. Definitely bring your wallet and photo ID. Even if MagicBands are accepted at some vendors, there may be others that won't accept the bands.

Also, while we're on the topic, at the post race party... I think it helps to have cash, just as a backup. At the Everest Challenge, the entire magic band / credit card payment system went down for a while. It was cash or nothing. I was in line for drinks and when the system went down, I was one of the few people who had cash and so I was able to go to the front if the line and skip all the people who were stuck due to having only magic bands or credit cards. People without cash were very unhappy!

Just my opinion. Carry sufficient cash, your credit card, photo ID and your magic band, and your 100% covered. I know some people prefer to travel light and carry nothing, but why risk it?

 

[DOOM1001]

I would NOT count on it. Definitely bring your wallet and photo ID. Even if MagicBands are accepted at some vendors, there may be others that won't accept the bands.

Also, while we're on the topic, at the post race party... I think it helps to have cash, just as a backup. At the Everest Challenge, the entire magic band / credit card payment system went down for a while. It was cash or nothing. I was in line for drinks and when the system went down, I was one of the few people who had cash and so I was able to go to the front if the line and skip all the people who were stuck due to having only magic bands or credit cards. People without cash were very unhappy!

Just my opinion. Carry sufficient cash, your credit card, photo ID and your magic band, and your 100% covered. I know some people prefer to travel light and carry nothing, but why risk it?

I may be old school but I like my cash.I have family members brag about their credit card sized wallet that basically only holds a drivers license and maximum 2 credit cards,I on the other hand have a wallet that dwarfs George Costanzas wallet,it's like 5 inches by 6 inches and about 4 inches high but has plenty of space for everything and even a zipper to hold everything in place.I have like 3 magic bands and have never used them to charge anything and I don't expect to be buying any of the latest Apple doodads they just announced.I was just reading a runners blog where they couldn't find parking anywhere before a race and luckily about 20 minutes before the race start time found a cash only garage for $20 and they only had like $18 and ended up having to walk the streets in search of an ATM which turned into a 19.5 minute adventure allowing them to make the race start with seconds to spare.I don't care what anyone says carry your cash.

 

[transformer67]

All points taken, thanks for all the advice, I will add my ID and a few $$'s to my running belt as well as the magic band.


Question- What are most of your training plans like the week before ( 7 days out) ? Should I just be doing yoga and stretching that last week? Most plans I've seen have you doing almost nothing that last week

Can't believe after making plans to run ToT back in February that we are just 18 days away! I am way more than excited for this

 

[disneyhorselover]

All points taken, thanks for all the advice, I will add my ID and a few $$'s to my running belt as well as the magic band.


Question- What are most of your training plans like the week before ( 7 days out) ? Should I just be doing yoga and stretching that last week? Most plans I've seen have you doing almost nothing that last week

Can't believe after making plans to run ToT back in February that we are just 18 days away! I am way more than excited for this

Usually my plans call for a shortish long run the weekend before race (when I've done this for a half marathon, its usually 6-8 miles) then two 3-4 mile runs the week of the race, timed so that I can get 2 days of rest directly before the race. This has worked great for me in the past, though I'm not actually using it for ToT because I'm using that as a training run for a full marathon training plan.

 

[disneyhorselover]

I had a great time at the party last year! I did have a bit of a problem feeling a bit sick after. That was AFTER I changed my clothes in the changing tent and met up with a relative I was traveling with--so it didn't really "hit me" until a good half hour or so after I finished. My relative had me sit down and she got me some cold water and then I was good to go!

Rides I remember being open were Tower of Terror, Rock N Roller Coaster, Toy Story Mania...there were stands to buy beer and wine, I can't remember what kind of food was available for purchase but I remember another friend I met at the race said something about eating a hamburger, so I assume you can get those.
Oh, if you finish somewhat early there will be parts of the park that are closed off due to the race course going through---I just remember feeling very dazed and confused and not knowing where to go (that was during the time before my relative got me the cold water)

Thank you! Good to know!! I def plan to take it easy and make sure I eat and drink a ton of water, glad to hear you were able to recover to finish off last years party!

My sister and I did this run last year. We did walk around a little bit after the run. TSMM was packed. Can't tell you about RnR or ToT as sister did not want to do those so we really did not see how they were. The other thing I remember is that the vendor stands we stopped at did not have the ability to use magic bands for payment. We were staying on property. So remember to bring some cash

Thanks for the tip! I love paying with magic bands (so convenient!) that I probably wouldn't have even thought about this!

 

[Waiting2goback]

I actually had the same symptoms and it was my shoes. It didn't happen at first, only the more I ran and pushed myself and added mileage. The local store fitted me and after a couple of weeks wearing them in the issue is gone. If you have been fitted it may very well be fixed with socks, but if not, shoes might be something to consider.

That's discouraging because I tried on about 40 pairs of running sneakers before I picked the ones I bought. I tried every brand and every price range and finally settled on some Asics. They are so comfortable. At this point I think it is too late to go for a new pair of sneakers though. By the time I got to the store and found some I wouldn't have much time to break them in.

I did find a few studies on-line that says compression socks make no difference so at this point I won't shell out the $50 for a pair if I can't be sure they will make a difference.

I will keep the new shoe idea in mind though for after the race. The other problem I have is, the tightness seems to be coming now but not because of the added miles. I have been less consistent with my runs. I think that might be the problem. With the schedule changing again because of school it has been harder for me to get out every other day like I was doing. Now I have a head cold going on 3 days so its throwing a wrench into my plans.

Not what I needed before the race at all. On the plus side, its better than being sick for the race itself. Keeping my fingers crossed on that one.

 

[Waiting2goback]

Usually my plans call for a shortish long run the weekend before race (when I've done this for a half marathon, its usually 6-8 miles) then two 3-4 mile runs the week of the race, timed so that I can get 2 days of rest directly before the race. This has worked great for me in the past, though I'm not actually using it for ToT because I'm using that as a training run for a full marathon training plan.

This is my plan too. I will probably do around 10 miles the weekend before. Then I will do 3-4 miles on Monday and Wednesday. Wednesday will be my last run before getting on the plane Thursday. I figure all the walking I will be doing down there will keep the blood flowing and I'll just do some strecthing here and there to keep loose.

 

[faneuil]

I may be old school but I like my cash.I have family members brag about their credit card sized wallet that basically only holds a drivers license and maximum 2 credit cards,I on the other hand have a wallet that dwarfs George Costanzas wallet,it's like 5 inches by 6 inches and about 4 inches high but has plenty of space for everything and even a zipper to hold everything in place.I have like 3 magic bands and have never used them to charge anything and I don't expect to be buying any of the latest Apple doodads they just announced.I was just reading a runners blog where they couldn't find parking anywhere before a race and luckily about 20 minutes before the race start time found a cash only garage for $20 and they only had like $18 and ended up having to walk the streets in search of an ATM which turned into a 19.5 minute adventure allowing them to make the race start with seconds to spare.I don't care what anyone says carry your cash.

You sound like me. My mom always taught me to have cash on me at all times, in case of an emergency. I still do that. I also hate using my card for anything under $15.

I'm planning on just taking some cash race day. That way, I'm also not tempted to over spend.

That's discouraging because I tried on about 40 pairs of running sneakers before I picked the ones I bought. I tried every brand and every price range and finally settled on some Asics. They are so comfortable. At this point I think it is too late to go for a new pair of sneakers though. By the time I got to the store and found some I wouldn't have much time to break them in.

Have you had your gait and pronation tested? Shoes can feel great in the store, but can actually be screwing up your legs and hips if they don't give the support where you need it. I got my gait and pronation tested, was recommended a top end Asics. I didn't have the $$, but when I researched a cheaper Asics, picked those. They've been perfect. I know when they have too much mileage on them too, cause my hip starts to hurt.

I know fit2run does the running test for free, but some places charge
a small fee.

 

[AThrillingChase]

That's discouraging because I tried on about 40 pairs of running sneakers before I picked the ones I bought. I tried every brand and every price range and finally settled on some Asics. They are so comfortable. At this point I think it is too late to go for a new pair of sneakers though. By the time I got to the store and found some I wouldn't have much time to break them in.

I did find a few studies on-line that says compression socks make no difference so at this point I won't shell out the $50 for a pair if I can't be sure they will make a difference.

I will keep the new shoe idea in mind though for after the race. The other problem I have is, the tightness seems to be coming now but not because of the added miles. I have been less consistent with my runs. I think that might be the problem. With the schedule changing again because of school it has been harder for me to get out every other day like I was doing. Now I have a head cold going on 3 days so its throwing a wrench into my plans.

Not what I needed before the race at all. On the plus side, its better than being sick for the race itself. Keeping my fingers crossed on that one.

I can tell you that my compression leggings did not help me with the issue. So if I were you, I probably would not drop that much $$ on the socks. It is a long shot, but if you were getting sick it is possible your muscles felt it before your head. I am just getting over a sinus infection/strep throat. My runs were making me very sore and were difficult even before I felt it in my head (I actually just thought I was hungover because it hit labor day weekend!). It wasn't until later I realized it was an infection when my jaw and head started hurting. A week of antibiotics and I came straight back out 2 weeks later for a successful 4 miler. Now I feel more comfortable working back up to where I was. Just didn't want to come out of the gate too quickly.

Also, when I was fitted for my shoes (mizunos with more cushion in the toes) I found that I changed where my foot hit a little when breaking them in. I attribute it to finding a better fitting shoe and better technique since I am much more comfortable now. I hesitate telling you to switch from where your heel or toes hit at this point, but if you are out of options you could consider it.

 

[wilkeliza]

My compression socks and sleeves help a lot. I should point out sleeves and socks are very different compression than what you woukd get it if leggings it tights.

They provide the same benifits as diabetes socks. The compression dies something for the blood flow through the legs. It is best to be fitted for your first pair to make sure you get the right size. Also they aren't something you can cheap out on. Most goods quality pairs are 60 but you can find deals.

 

[bumbershoot]

There was some talk here recently about compression socks. It got me looking into them. On all of my runs, beginning at about 2 miles, my calves get really tight. My shins have been hurting too. For those of you that use them, do you recommend compression socks for helping my issues. All the reviews I read seem to say it will help. If so, does anyone have a brand they love?

That's exactly what my compression socks help with. I use CEP but that's all I've tried so I have no other knowledge of brands. There's also Zensah and they make some supercute sleeves and many people wear them. Can't recall the other brands.

My brother kept pulling a calf muscle and in desperation tried a sleeve and it works wonderfully. One blue sleeve made him easy to follow at the Disneyland half even when I had my head down

And yesterday I ran a 10k with no sleeve or compression sock, and I'm feeling the difference today!

 

[LadyDi13]

I bought a set of Adidas compression sleeves before I ran my first marathon to have on hand for recovery as I had to return to work the next day and spend most of my day on my feet. I only paid about $20 at Sports Authority but have used them off and on the last 2 years for calf issues and they have worked well. My husband is currently wearing one on our runs for the same reason mentioned. His shoes were fitted by the local running store, but once we started accumulating runs over 5 miles he had discomfort in his left calf. He will be sporting it for the 10 miler, and probably around the parks afterwards.

 

[EpicBilynn]

I have a compression sleeve for my knee that I have to run in. I've noticed a huge improvement. My running store helped a lot before I got the sleeve. I mentioned my previous injuries and surgeries and they helped find the best shoe for my needs. My knee had been hurting after 2 miles, but with the better shoes it didn't start until around 8 miles. With the addition of the sleeve it can last through a half. But I do have to take it off immediately after and switch to what I call my robot leg, my big brace with stabilizers, to help with mobility the days following.

 

[PrincessV]

What rides were open/characters were out? How were the lines? What were the options for food/drink?

Most importantly, were you able to enjoy the party after the race in the heat? I am a little nervous that I'm just going to crash after that...

All major rides were open and I didn't find lines to be bad in 2012 - I think we waited maybe 20 mins for TOT and 5-10 for Star Tours. Lots of food and drink available: Backlot Express was open, as was the food court outside RnR. Full menus. Plus lots of soda/beer/mixed drink carts.

I can't speak to ride lines in 2013 because I wasn't able to enjoy them. 2012, I walked most of the race due to injury; though I finished late because I was slow, I had plenty of energy after and felt well enough to ride rides and have a couple beers. 2013 I pushed hard in the race - got a big, fat PR! - but paid for it after: my blood pressure and blood sugar kept tanking, leaving me feeling repeatedly like I was about to faint. I managed to eat a bit and catch up with my group for pics, but left after that.

This year, I'd like to push less in the race and enjoy the party.

Just my opinion. Carry sufficient cash, your credit card, photo ID and your magic band, and your 100% covered. I know some people prefer to travel light and carry nothing, but why risk it?

Totally agree!

Question- What are most of your training plans like the week before ( 7 days out) ? Should I just be doing yoga and stretching that last week? Most plans I've seen have you doing almost nothing that last week

It really depends on the plan and what folks have coming up after TOT. I do every-other-week cutbacks throughout my training, so I'll be doing 10 miles this weekend, then 4-5 next weekend (the weekend before TOT). I don't taper because my plan uses TOT as a training run leading up to W&D and other races after that. Some plans have you reduce your mileage the week before to taper, but you really shouldn't drop the intensity all that much. I can't say as I've ever seen a plan call for no running at all that last pre-race week.

 

[librarygeek]

I just emailed disneysports@trackshack.com about my corral placement so I'll let you all know if they say anything! Not the end of the world if it isn't changed, but I figure it can't hurt to ask.

 

[SunDial]

All points taken, thanks for all the advice, I will add my ID and a few $$'s to my running belt as well as the magic band.


Question- What are most of your training plans like the week before ( 7 days out) ? Should I just be doing yoga and stretching that last week? Most plans I've seen have you doing almost nothing that last week

Can't believe after making plans to run ToT back in February that we are just 18 days away! I am way more than excited for this

I am also training for the 2015 Goofy, so the weekend of Tower I am supposed to go for 15 miles. Obviously that wont happen that night but I am not cutting back my training. I will probably head over to Fort Wilderness and run some there on Sunday or Monday before I drive back home.

 

[Waiting2goback]

Have you had your gait and pronation tested? Shoes can feel great in the store, but can actually be screwing up your legs and hips if they don't give the support where you need it. I got my gait and pronation tested, was recommended a top end Asics. I didn't have the $$, but when I researched a cheaper Asics, picked those. They've been perfect. I know when they have too much mileage on them too, cause my hip starts to hurt.

I know fit2run does the running test for free, but some places charge
a small fee.

No, I basically decided it was time to get in shape and get out of my comfort zone. I was looking for motivation and I love Disney. So, I decided I would sign up for a runDisney race and go from there. I bought a pair of shoes and off I went.

I have had a head cold the last couple of days. I was up at 3 am for the day today because I didn't feel good and couldn't fall back to sleep. But, I ran tonight. And, you would think it would be a bad run given the cold and lack of sleep. Quite the opposite. I was running fast and pain free. I only share this to show that the more I do this, the more I realize that it doesn't make any sense.

As for the shoes in the store. I may not have the best shoes for me. But, if a sneaker doesn't feel good in the store and the professionals tell me a certain shoe is best for me but it hurts, why would I buy it? Would anyone buy it?

After running tonight pain free and faster than I have in a while I have no idea what I should be doing. Once I start work and have some extra money I will start looking into some of this stuff.

 

[Waiting2goback]

Thanks to all those who replied about the compression socks. I may still give them a try at some point. I won't need them for the ToT. But, if I end up doing the marathon (still not sure I'll be ready) I may get them and try them for that.

 

[wilkeliza]

Thanks to all those who replied about the compression socks. I may still give them a try at some point. I won't need them for the ToT. But, if I end up doing the marathon (still not sure I'll be ready) I may get them and try them for that.

What training plan are you using?

 

[bumbershoot]

I have had a head cold the last couple of days. I was up at 3 am for the day today because I didn't feel good and couldn't fall back to sleep. But, I ran tonight. And, you would think it would be a bad run given the cold and lack of sleep. Quite the opposite. I was running fast and pain free. I only share this to show that the more I do this, the more I realize that it doesn't make any sense.

As for the shoes in the store. I may not have the best shoes for me. But, if a sneaker doesn't feel good in the store and the professionals tell me a certain shoe is best for me but it hurts, why would I buy it? Would anyone buy it?

Crazy question (that comes to mind b/c of my last week post dental work), but did you take cold medication over the last few days that might be covering up pain (like for sinuses)? Be careful, if so! I messed up last week with some classes I took, thinking they were easy, when actually I was overworking myself without realizing it because I was blunted by the ibuprofen.


No professional store tells you to buy shoes that don't feel good in the store. It's just a matter of finding a good shoe type for you, pulling out all of that type of shoe and having you find out what feels good.

They aren't always right; they had me in "stability plus" shoes, then "stability". Over a few years, my feet and ankles were getting weaker and weaker. I finally told them to shush and got into a minimal shoe. My ankles feel soooo much better and stronger, and while I'm still "breaking in" my tendons and ligaments" for longer mileage, my runs are much better.

But for other people the suggestions are spot on and worth going from! After all, I wouldn't have known to switch to minimal if it hadn't been for my time in the "built up" shoes and seeing how I felt over time.