This week’s Tuesday Topic is:  Your tips for beginner runners.  You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post.  Remember to link up with Kim and Zenaida!  Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier!  Remember to come back for later linkers!

Dear runner,

So you just started running?  Good for you!  I am proud of you.  Running is fun.  Running is a hobby.  You don’t have to love running but liking it is good enough.  When you start to “hate” it then that is when you probably need to take a break from it.  That’s OK.  It happens to many of us.  Here are some of my tips.  I hope you find them useful.

➡️ Invest in good shoes.  I know shoes are expensive but they’re worth it.

➡️ Running should be fun.  Remember that it is a hobby.  Unless you are training to win a race and money, then it is more than a hobby.

➡️ Listen to your body.  Feeling tired and need a day off?  Go for it.  Do not feel guilty about taking a rest day.

➡️ Walking is OK.  Don’t let anyone tell you it isn’t or make you feel less of a runner for walking.

➡️ A mile is a mile no matter the pace.  Whether you finish it in 15 minutes, 7 minutes, or 9 minutes, make sure to celebrate it.

➡️ You can run a half marathon or a marathon if you want.  It will take time and commitment but it can be done.  I started running in 2005 and ran my first marathon the following year.

➡️ Remember that you are a runner.  Whenever you’re in doubt, remember these wise words from Bart Yasso: “I often hear someone say I’m not a real runner. We are all runners, some just run faster than others. I never met a fake runner.” 

This week’s Tuesday Topic is:  Share your favorite running item(s) you’ve tried this year.  You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post.  Remember to link up with Kim and Zenaida!  Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier!  Remember to come back for later linkers!

So some of these items are not new but they’re still some of my favorite to use for running.

KT Performance+ by KT Tape Anti Chafing Stick – I bought this after I ran out of the one I was using before (and I wan’t too crazy about it).  It is easy to apply, does not stain, and there is no smell.  

SportSuds Laundry Detergent – I know I have written about this before but seriously I LOVE this detergent for my running clothes.  I’ve been using it for over a year and my clothes do not smell at all. 

Smartwool Women’s PhD Run Ultra Light – I wear both these and Balega socks.  I am not too crazy about extra cushion so these thin socks are perfect.  They’re moisture-wicking and odor-neutralizing so I find myself wearing them 2 or 3 times before they go in the hamper.  

Oiselle Pocket Jogger Shorts –  I mostly wear these during a long run.  But now I love them even more because the pockets hold my two small water bottles. 

Any you used any of these items?

This week’s Tuesday Topic is:  Share your home gym.  You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post.  Remember to link up with Kim and Zenaida!  Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier!  Remember to come back for later linkers!

OK, so I don’t really have a home gym.  The only exercise equipment I have in my living room is my Peloton bike.  It isn’t a big room and I know it is a little messy and crowded.  My nephew was in town and that is why I have a mattress in the living room.  He left on Sunday but the mattress is still there.  I know.  I know.  I need to move it and I will.  🙂

However, let me tell what my ideal gym would be like.  Besides the Peloton bike I would add the following:

🟣 Peloton Tread-I know I can get a different treadmill but I really want this one.  Not sure exactly which one from the two.  Thoughts?

🟣 Yoga mat

🟣 Dumbbells

🟣 Rowing machine-This one is not a must have but would be nice.

🟣 Kettlebell

🟣 Jump rope–I bought this one after Wendy mentioned it in a post.

🟣 Medicine ball

What else do I need?  One of the first things I will do when I buy a house is to set up a home gym.  Cannot wait!

This week’s Tuesday Topic is:  Benefits of running solo.  You can write about this topic or feel free to post any running related blog post.  Remember to link up with Kim and Zenaida!  Visit at least two of the other linked posts – the more the merrier!  Remember to come back for later linkers!

As most of you know I am a solo runner.  I have been doing it for a few years and am used to it.  Just like there are benefits of running with a group, there are also benefits of running solo.  Reading along to find out those benefits.

🏃🏽‍♀️ No one is waiting for you.  Running late?  No problem.  Want to skip the workout?  No problem either.

🏃🏽‍♀️Time alone.  I know I am an introvert but also enjoy being in a group.  However, just like some runners want that time to talk and catch up with others, I look forward to that time alone.  I like starting my day with a run.  During this time I am lost in my own thoughts.  I think about my life, the things that I have to do, things that are going on, etc.  Or sometimes I listen to music.  Last year with everything that was going on, I looked forward to this time alone.  

🏃🏽‍♀️ Your own workout/pace.  I have a coach and have specific workouts/paces for them.  Even without a coach, you decide how far to run, how fast, when to stop, route, etc.    

🏃🏽‍♀️ Just get up and run.  There is no need to make plans to meet someone at a specific time and location.  I love being able to get out and start my run.  Again, best way to start the day!