Tips for Virtual Race Success

Virtual races have gone from a novel idea to essentially the only race option for many of us during the pandemic. Many runners are missing the ritual of training for a race – the build up, focus, and goal – and then race morning – toeing the line with other athlete, ready to put all that fitness to the test. While in-person races are rare these days, and not without risk, race directors and organizations are offering virtual races to help keep their finances afloat, while offering an alternative to runners desperately looking for one.

There are some major pros and cons to this new virtual boom, and both should be considered.

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New Runner Tips

It’s been estimated that outdoor running has increased by 400% since the pandemic shutdowns began. That’s a huge increase! If you are new to running – WELCOME!!!! I am dedicating this blog to answering some of the most common questions for getting started, staying healthy, and having fun. Seasoned runners may also learn a thing or two, so here we go!

How do I start?

Start where you are. If that means running around the block – that’s great! Running isn’t defined by a pace or a distance. The most common mistake: starting too fast/far too soon. Ease into every run with a 5-minute walk or light jog, and cool down the same way. It’s 100% okay (and sometimes recommended!) to do a run/walk. Alternate between running for 2 minutes and walking for 2 minutes, a total of 10 times – for example. Focus on breathing and running at an aerobic, comfortable, and sustainable effort. On a scale of RPE (rated perceived exertion), aim for a 4-6 out of 10 for all runs in the first 3-4 weeks.

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Training through quarantine

After months of life as we know it changing in much of the country (and world), we’ve all in our own ways been adjusting to our new normal. Many aspects of our lives have been forced to change. It’s safe to say we all view this as temporary, but how temporary this will be is the million dollar question. Are we looking at weeks, months or years?  Perhaps the worst thing right now is not knowing the end date. Today on my own run, I had a “come to Jesus moment” – if this “new normal” were to last for years versus months, how do I navigate my own life and assist in the lives of my clients? What habits and routines have I established since mid-March? Are they positive or negative? Are they sustainable for the long haul?

On my run today, I thought about hypothetically what role my relationship with running would take if it didn’t involve races, group runs with my team, or treadmill classes. What would I do? What purpose would running fill? What goals would I set? What structure, accountability, and support would I need or want? That’s a pretty personal answer, and one that no doubt can and will change. The GOOD news is that running outside is literally one of the safest forms of exercise during this pandemic.

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How to get the most out of your Running Coach

So you’ve decided you may want to work with a running coach, but aren’t sure where to start or how to make the most out of the experience. Not to fear, this blog will help answer most questions and hopefully guide you in the right direction for your journey!

Running coaches aren’t just for world class athletes. In fact, most folks shopping around for a coach are people with normal jobs and lives! Some are experienced runners, looking for the next edge. Others are brand new to the sport. Running coaches can be an important resource and support system to your training and racing.

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Phoenix Marathon Race Report

If you are looking for a fast marathon in winter, I highly recommend considering Phoenix Marathon. Phoenix Marathon, which takes place in early February, is a net downhill course with a smooth course profile – all of the ups and downs are in the first half, and the second half is essentially flat.

Running with Rebecca around mile 4.

Coming off my St. George Marathon (see the blog on that experience), I wanted a marathon on the calendar where I could focus on having fun. I’m a naturally competitive person with myself, but I was in need of a race that brought me joy. I accepted that my St. George and abortion recoveries could not be rushed, and so my training for Phoenix was definitely not ideal. In fact, I released myself from my usual structure, and chose everyday to be kind to myself. I’d say I finally began feeling like “me” again in early December. I was then sick in January for a good 3 weeks. So while I was mentally really ready for Phoenix, I knew physically I wasn’t going in as my best – and that was okay. [Read more…]