The Run Wild Marathon/Half Marathon training for the 2011 event reached the half way point this past Saturday.  We are 10 weeks into the 20 week training program.  

Saturday morning over 30 runners/walkers gathered bright and early at the Pearl Amphitheater for the longest runs (to date) of the training season.  Half marathoners ran 7.25 miles while those training for the full marathon ran over 15 miles.  

I was particularly encouraged by not only the more experienced runners who finished toward the front of their groups but also by several less experienced runners who indicated “that’s the farthest I have ever run in my life.”  Not only was there fatigue on their faces, but also there was a relief, pride, and satisfaction born of endurance and achievement.  Those are some of the reasons I enjoy running with the Run Wild Sports running group.

As training continues, you should use these longer runs to gain some valuable experience.  Refine the fueling and hydration techniques that are critical to successful completion of the races in November.  This does not just mysteriously happen.  Most of the runners in the group are carrying fuel belts that include water bottles.  HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE! during your training runs and throughout the week.  Ask the folks at Run Wild about electrolyte supplements and recovery drinks that go along with water to keep you hydrated. 

Several people mentioned the sensation of “running out of gas” during the run.  Another asked if it was normal to be hungrier than normal during the training.  Two helpful reminders for fueling before and during your runs are –

1.)  Eat something before you go on your longer runs.  Now, not late October, is the time to make sure you know what works for you.  Is it toast, oatmeal, bagel with peanut butter, or 2 eggs over easy with sausage, bacon, 2 pancakes, and chocolate pudding?  (If you don’t know which one of those suggestions was more appropriate for a condemned man’s last meal, go get some help.)   As a runner, you are looking for a balance of what gives you some fuel to burn and digests well. 

2.)  Test some race day supplements like GU, Chomps, etc.  Determine which ones work for you, how your body reacts to them, how often to use them during a race, etc.  Again, check with the staff at Run Wild Sports about what products are available and how they work.     

Hang in there Wild Things!  We’re halfway there.  (Guest post by Bo Brockman)