Half-training, week 1 (or 2?)

So, we are in full-swing of half-marathon training. I was using a plan that I couldn't follow well, so "using" is a term I use lightly. I switched back to my tried-and-true Hal Higdon. When I ran Knoxville, I used Higdon's Novice 2 plan. This race, I have gone up a step to the Intermediate plan and am tweaking it a bit.

Yesterday, I ran the long run that's officially scheduled for week 2, but I'm OCD and being off schedule just doesn't work for me. So, my week 1 was week 2. I know. I'm unnecessarily complicated. The last half, I did the majority of my training on the treadmill which did NOT prepare me for such a hilly race. I made a resolve to run hills as much as possible for my next one. Now, this race is flat and could easily be trained on a treadmill. Oh well, such is life. 

Lee and I decided to do long runs yesterday because of the snow/ice storm that is upon us today. I ran 6, Lee ran 9. I'm getting much better at pacing myself for long, slow distances and really enjoyed my run.

(If you see me running and my hands are raised, chances are, I'm not in need; just "raising my praiser")

I have gotten SEVERAL messages asking about what my clothing attire is that enables me to love winter running so much. (I think it's weird that some of my major training times have been in the winter.)

Some of these are year-round staples and some are winter (some are also pricey. Think Christmas gifts and knowing that these last for years and years):

1) Garmin GPS watch. Lee has a fancy, expensive one that he hates. I have a simple, much cheaper one, that I love. It clocks distance, time, average pace, enables you to set timers for speed work. It's small and fits well on my very small wrists. (You can do similar things with the Run Keeper app. I just enjoy freedom from my phone. "13.1 miles of peace and quiet")

2) Running shoes made for YOU. I am a supinator that runs on the outside of my feet. The only shoes that work for me are the Mizuno Wave Riders. I opt for the older models to get cheaper prices. 

2b) I also have a pair of goretex shoes that I save for rainy and snowy days (Look for "GTX" after the model name). Mizuno doesn't make them, so I got a pair of Brooks in a neutral footing. I have had this pair for 3 years bc I only use them when necessary.

3) Marmot Variant jacket. I read about this in Fitness magazine and got one on clearance. It is a MUST HAVE. Down in the front and a thick water repellent material on the arms and back. Thumb holes keep gloves in rock and an inside pocket keeps iPods dry. 

4) Smart Wool running socks. Love them and only need them when the temps are below 35

5) Running tights. I have 2 pair, 1 pair is brand new and only ran in them yesterday. I have run in a pair of Nike's for a few years that are wonderful, buti f the temps dip in the lower 30's or less, I require an extra layer. Lee has been running in the CW-X insulator tights for a few years and I broke down and bought a pair for the Turkey Trot race (that got cancelled.). I ran in them yesterday in the snow and the temps in the upper 20s and was super warm dry (they're water repellent, too).

Other staples are dry-fit shirts under the Marmot, wicking socks for when it's not super cold (I think I got mine at Target or TJ Maxx). I'm currently running in a pair of fleece gloves from Walmart for $2.99. I always keep a tube of chapstick in my pocket and slather my face in a super thick moisturizer before running to keep my face from hurting. (I'm using this Mary Kay product) Also, I had a horrible time last year with keeping my ears warm until my friend, Cindy, told me about the Bondi Bands. ("Will run for chocolate!")

In the past, I felt horribly guilty for leaving Nina at home (with supervision, of course.) while I went running. Then a friend of mine posted this last week on Facebook and completely changed my outlook on my training. 

I am aware that the list, when added all together, is pricey (And running is supposed to be a cheap sport!). These are things to gradually acquire and to hint and save for. Not all things are must haves for everyone. Hoping a few of my favorite running things may help you! Happy training!