Tower of Terror Training

Can you believe it's June already!? When did that happen?! I am excited that it's finally starting to feel like summer here in New Jersey. Thanks warm weather for finally deciding to show up!

Now that June's here it also means that training for the Tower of Terror 10 Miler starts today. I have to admit that I haven't really done much running since the Nike Women's Half Marathon. During training and the half I developed a HUGE blister on my left foot from my orthotics. So I had to send my orthotics out to be adjusted which gave my blister some time to heal and not look so scary. My orthotics came back at the end of last week, just in time to start up this next round of training-yay!

My goal for this training cycle is to complete the whole thing! In my 2 prior training cycles I haven't stuck to the schedule as well as I should have for various reasons. I know I'm capable of running a better race but I just need to stick to the plan! Since I have been running for more than a year but not so consistently I've decided to follow Jeff Galloway's finish in the upright position plan. Originally I was going to select the time improvement plan, but right now I need to focus on completing a training schedule and feeling strong at the end of a race. My past 2 races I've always lost steam towards the end and want to avoid that this time around. 

The other areas I want to focus on are weight lifting and nutrition. I'd like to work in Body Pump classes as cross training twice a week. I also really need to start eating better to keep my body fueled properly. I'm starting off slowly by tracking meals into MyFitnessPal again but would like to slowly transition over to clean eating. I've been browsing blogs for recipes and meal plans to get some ideas. If anyone has any resources that helped them transition to clean eating, please, let me know! 

QOTD: Are you starting training for Tower of Terror or another fall race? 

Don't forget DVC and Passholder signups for the Star Wars Half-Marathon weekend are tomorrow at noon!

After Workout Fueling

I really like Muscle Milk. It's a great source of protein! Yes runners need to fuel and have lots of energy which is gained mostly from carbs. Runners build a lot of lean muscle as oppose to "bulking up" which is what muscle milk or protein products are associated with. So high protein products aren't crucial to a runners diet, I've even done some research and most say runners shouldn't drink muscle milk. But I don't care, I usually drink it after a very intense work out or very long run. And it's been so satisfying! I can feel my legs feeling better quicker after a long workout since I started drinking the stuff. I used to have intense practices when I played lacrosse, I wish I would've had muscle milk then. I really do feel a difference. 

Lately, I am running around like crazy too! It's busy season at Liberty Travel and I'm working long hours. I enjoy muscle milk when I can't eat and enjoy a full meal, for example while I'm at work. Something else I love about this product is that it tastes good! The chocolate flavor actually gives me my chocolate fix if I'm having a bit of a craving. You know we all have them!

I guess I just wanted to put it out there that just because it's a protein product doesn't mean runners should "run away" from trying it.

-Kayla 

QOTD: Have you ever used Muscle Milk? What do you like do drink post workout?

Start Your Day and Run Off Right!

I'm a foodie. I love to eat, I love to snack, and I like to drink. So now that I'm getting into running I do need to change some things in my diet. This healthy lifestyle thing is great, but for someone who loves to cook and eat anything and everything whenever I want needs to change. I won't compromise my other passion for food and drink, I just won't, that wouldn't be me. But I am making more of a effort to find new recipes and to try new things. So far I've done well. I really love Pinterest to find healthy recipes. I have a list piling up of new ones I'd like to try. 

I also find I have some trouble fueling before and even after running. Thank goodness Lauren was with me before and after the Wine and Dine half marathon. She did a bit more training and research than I did. I probably would've ate the entire food and wine festival before the half (it took everything I had to wait untill after the race to indulge). I would love to know what some of you more experienced runners out there enjoy before a big race. I especially struggle with breakfast. Yes I've heard a bagel and almond butter will do the trick but I would like to hear more ideas. 

I said before I find healthy recipes on Pinterest. I just found one id like to share. I haven't tried it yet so stay tuned. Once I make it I'll be sure to give my review! 

I really like the idea of this recipe. I like that it can be made in large batches and you can make it ahead of time. Time saving, healthy, and hopefully delicious! For the recipe make sure to visit our Pinterest page!

-Kayla 

QOTD: What's your favorite healthy and delicious breakfast recipe?