Pre-Training for a Marathon- Find a perfect Cross Training Day!

Whether you're training for a full 26.2 mile marathon or a 1/2 marathon, or even a 5k race... you will want to incorporate at least one day of cross training. Indulge yourself and make that cross training day a rejuvenating activity that makes you feel strong, feel younger and ready to tackle your next "running" day. My cross training favorites are roller blading at Jensen Park in Syracuse, Utah and Ellison Park in Layton, UT. There's nothing like rollerblading at top speed (for you)- to make you feel like your 10 years old again! Check your gear to ensure your blade wheels are tightened and ready for a good workout.
Hiking and trail runs are a fantastic cross training addition as well. For those in the Weber county area, check out Weber Pathways free public hiking outings. These are guided hikes, trail runs, family hikes, and more! Check out the schedule at www.weberpathways.org
Just remember to pack the appropriate gear. If your trail running- be sure you have sturdy trail shoes and pay attention to the weather a few days ahead to determine whether there will be water or mud on the course and plan accordingly. Never wear your marathon running shoes to run the mountain trails- it's the fastest way to find yourself buying new shoes. Also remember to always pack appropriate water and snacks for the activity. Happy Cross Training!

Back in the Running Shoes

I have to say it feels great to tighten the laces on the running shoes and know that I'm taking time to run... just me.. the treadmill belt and the tunes on my fake I-pod. Whether I run 2 miles, 5 miles or more... it's just nice to know it's my time. I've never been a treadmill fan, but the snow falling .. and accumulating over 2 inches now.. is the perfect reminder that running doesn't have to equate to frigid temperatures and pain from the cold. I remember in prior marathon training periods running in 20 degree weather.. where all you can feel is your feet hitting the ground.. but you feel nothing else becuase the rest of your body is frozen. I kind of liked the feeling of frozen running, but it will wear on you and your lungs. Remember don't run in temps below twenty degrees- it causes damage to your lungs. I'm just happy there's no frozen lungs tonight..not in the comfy haven of the basement. Let it Snow!

Registered for the New Layton Marathon, October 9, 2010

Saturday, April 3rd~ Signed up, committed and will begin training for the Layton Marathon on October 9, 2010. It's the inaugral year. Race starts out on Antelope Island, over the causeway and ends at Ellison Park. 26.2 miles of shear fun!
Sunday, April 4th- 3 miles on treadmill- interval/hill training -

Wow- 5 years since last Marathon Training Blog

I jumped on the blog tonight to see if it was still active and realized that I had not blogged about running since 2005. Which was when I was training for the New Las Vegas Marathon. Here's a commitment to using the blog as motivation for the marathon training!