Ready to Run?

Cheers to Jenna, Michelle, and I (and everyone else that ran) for kicking butt in the Corktown 5K yesterday!  What a great way to spend a Sunday - and why not get your workout in for the day at the same time?  The three of us and around 8,000 others laced up for the run yesterday to raise funds for the Saint Patrick's Senior Center and the Community Health and Social Services Center - not to mention to enjoy a free beer (or two) for runner's at the end of the race!  

On that note, ever heard the theory that a beer after a run or exercise is good for recovery?  Be slightly skeptical of this statement.  Some beers do have heart-healthy compounds as well as B vitamins that can help convert carbs to energy, BUT you should always hydrate with WATER immediately after a race (~16 oz) and get in some carbs and protein (~200 kcal).  So chug a bottle of water and grab some fruit before you sprint over to that beer tent.


Since amazing running weather is on its way, maybe you should grab some friends and sign up for a 5K (~3.2 - 3.5 miles) together.  It's a fun way to get fit and motivate each other to hit the pavement.  Here's some upcoming races in our area:


April 16 - Downriver Dash - Taylor
May 28 - Memorial Day Run - Grosse Ile
June 3 - Dexter Ann Arbor Run - Dexter/Ann Arbor
July 14 - Portofino Run For Art - Wyandotte
Aug 4 - Allen Park Street Fair - Allen Park
Aug 11 - Wood Duck Dash - Lake Erie Metro Park


Tips for Training for a 5k (~3.5 miles):


*Don't run every day (alternate running with biking or swimming).
*Focus on running for 3 miles straight instead of time.
*If you have to walk, then walk, but pick it back up to a jog when you can (no matter how many times you have to stop!)
*If you have a smart phone, use a log your run app to keep track of the distance you're running so that you'll be prepared for the full distance on race day.


Seems appropriate: Ready to Run - Dixie Chicks