Race preparations

If I don't write this post soon, I'll be documenting the race I ran "last year," which kind of loses its dramatic effect, don't you think? 

All fall, I was training for a half marathon.  For a while I trained in secret, which sounds like I ran in the steam tunnels under Virginia Tech at midnight.  I ran in broad daylight, with a stroller, which is about as non-covert as you can be.  I just didn't really announce that I was training for something, because running post-baby is different.  I wanted the chance to opt out if things didn't shake down the way I expected, since my training now depended upon a tiny, (cute), unpredictable little one.  I delayed signing up as long as possible because I was afraid suddenly she'd stop sleeping through the night, or she'd get sick and I'd have to miss lots of runs, or that Virginia would freeze over and force us to stay indoors. 

Thankfully, none of those things happened, and I am happy to share that my little training partner and I didn't miss a single run.  Thank you, Addie!  At this point Danny also deserves a HUGE thank-you.  It takes a village to train for a race, especially once you have a kid.  He did so many Saturday morning Addie duties for me so I could do my long runs by myself.  (I can't wait to return the favor so he can get back in the race circuit and wow us with his speedy finish times.)

 

This was definitely the most relaxed training program I've ever done.  I followed my regular pattern (MWF regular runs of 30-40 minutes, Tues speed workout, Thursday hill workout, Saturday long run, Sunday off) but was really laid back about it.  If Addie wasn't feeling it one day, I turned back early.  If it was raining, I did yoga instead.  The last two races I've done were both full marathons, so it was also nice to have the mentality of it being "just a half."

My only regret was having a jam-packed social weekend around the race, which included Addison's first birthday party the DAY OF.  Friday night before the race, 9:45pm: I was simultaneously icing Addie's smash cake, prepping deviled eggs, and barking orders at my poor mother- and sister-in-law as they slaved away helped me set up for the party.  I hadn't laid out a single thing for the race, had been on my feet for hours, and would be getting up before 6am to drive to Roanoke.  Not the best pre-race relaxation.  I don't recommend it.

And in case you're wondering, here's how I made training with a baby (in a coldish climate) happen:

1. BOB Ironman.  Can't speak for the other BOB varieties, but that thing is worth its weight in gold (actually it doesn't weigh much at all... so it's worth MORE than its weight in gold).  I love that it has a fixed wheel, and Addison is so comfy in there.  We've used it since she was 6 weeks old with the infant attachment.  Sanity on wheels for me.

2. The right gear.  For us on cold days that is a nice warm full-body fleece suit for her, blankets, and the BOB weather cover.  Extra money you'd rather not spend?  Maybe, but worth it.  I originally asked for it to shield rain, but it is a must for running in the cold.  It blocks the wind, and she actually stays pretty toasty in her little bubble.

can you see her?

 3. Entertainment.  Toys, books, and snack cup for baby.  The kind that "doesn't spill" (in quotes because of course her entire suit, and the seat, are filled with Cheerios when we finish). She loves riding along, reading her books aloud, and tossing Cheerios like a boss.

4.  Start 'em young.  I've been running with her since she was 6 weeks old.  It has been a part of our morning routine every morning since then, and she actually enjoys it.  I think she notices on days when we don't go.  She is perfectly happy for up to an hour and 15 minutes, which I'd say is pretty good (never tried longer with her).

5. Remember that well-exercised mama is a happy mama is a happy baby.  Of course, especially early on, there were long nights and mornings that came way too early that I'd rather not go pound the pavement.  However, I have never regretted a run once I finish.  It's as much a part of our routine as eating breakfast, and we've both been better off for it.

6. I realize running is NOT for everyone, but to me, it's the "laziest" workout - meaning it requires the least amount of time and prep effort (no drives to the gym or the pool - just put on your shoes and go).  And I can take her with me.  I do not have the time (or desire) right now to go to the gym every day, but running?  40 minutes and you're done.  And you can eat a lot the rest of the day. :)

End running PSA.

Stay tuned for the race day recap!  I know you can't wait!