After the 9 mile a little over a week ago, ran a 5K in 24:20 the Wednesday after (i.e., a week ago today), a good thirty seconds faster than my to-date best time. Was really, really happy about that. Unfortunately, this hurt me more than I expected, so when I went out for my Saturday long run, I had serious pan in the lower part of my shins/just above the ankle. It felt like shinsplints - just a persistent dull bruise-like pain. I managed 5 miles in 44:18, but couldn't keep going. I felt great otherwise - not an endurance or muscle fatigue issue. Was really disappointed with that though.
It's been a dry fall/winter/spring around here, and I've had to deal with a lot of cracked skin on my hands. I think it's a combination of sun and wind damage, so I've
picked these up. They are extremely lightweight, but should help stop those the sun and wind causing me trouble. I've also been using a sun lotion stick applied to my face to try and stop burns as well. I'm pretty good with sun overall, but the longer runs were definitely proving a bit painful for the rest of the day post-run.
Looking into a hip belt of sorts so I can keep water with me. I've never really thought about all that during long runs, but it's clear I need to take it into consideration.
Trying out Gatorade pre-workout chews and a Fierce Grape gel, just to see how they work. Tried one of their post-workout protein shake things, which has the same (in my opinion) awful chocolate pudding taste as so many other products do. I think I'll just stick to chocolate milk and/or Instant Breakfast.
Also looking into all the power bars and cookies and whatnot. Anyone have any suggestions on those? I know I've tried a Clif bar and liked it. I'm not really looking to bulk up so much as repair after a workout.
Also still looking for a headband. I think I'd prefer a thin, non-sweatband material one, since it gets hot enough for me to not try and aggravate that.
Also looking into legitimate running shorts rather than the leftover soccer shorts I've been using.
Also about to start reading
Born to Run. Apparently there's a group of Native Americans in Mexico who can do "ultrarunning," which means distances far beyond marathons. Sounds incredible. They don't focus on speed so much as good form, and apparently enter some kind of zen state where they just perpetually keep going. Should be an interesting thing to check out.