Training Hurdles - Hydration & Nutrition

Last week, I had two running things on the brain - toe socks and GU (provided by my cheerleader,GMT).  Both of which I had just learned about, but was only brave enough to try and fall in love with toe socks. 

This past weekend, several seasoned marathoners gathered at our box (gym) to talk/coach others on what to expect while training and during the HNL marathon.  During this chat session, they stressed the importance of drinking water at every water station (staying hydrated from the start!) and figuring out how to fuel yourself before and during the run.  Basic tip - "Avoid caffeine if it bothers your system.  If not, and if it works for you, do it."

Last week, I still had doubts on the GU and shot block options of mid-run nutrition.  Big D even suggested a sweet potato option, which I promptly made a few to test, but in my fine fashion, haven't yet tried it during a run.  Although it's been ages since I ate frosting straight from the bowl, I got over my dilemma and had some chocolate GU during my Sunday long run.  I waited until mile 6 of 7 to try it though for fear of having immediate intestional issues.  It was pretty good, albeit really, really sweet, so I had to chase it with water.  My tummy was a little upset right after consumption, but only for about the next 2 - 3 minutes, and it could possibly be from all the water I had been drinking during our run.  Next time, I'm gonna try a non-caffeinated mint chocolate GU and consume it earlier into my long run and see how that goes.

My mileage is slowly increasing without too much additional effort and I like it.  I'm still coming to grips with taking it easy with Crossfit though, as we've been doing more intense wods because we're following the spirit of the Crossfit Regionals that are going on around the world and upcoming Games where the World's Fittest is crowned in July.  Truly, exciting and inspiring stuff!  However, as the months go on, I'm certain I will improve the balance between my running/crossfit training schedule.  Just attacking one hurdle at a time, one at a time that's all, easy, right?