This Old Runner Writes About Running

My 4-Step Swimming Process

8/25/2019

I'm trying to cross-train as much as possible during this training cycle. So, I headed out to the pool. Do I just dive into the water and go? No. Here's my process:

Disclaimer: I’m promoting Gatorade Endurance as a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

Swimming is a 4-step process for me. Today, I swam laps, then spent serious time treading water and moving my arms. Treading water seemed to loosen my tight shoulder. It felt good to use different muscles in my shoulders, arms, and legs.

Sometimes it’s hard to remember to hydrate for water sports, but it’s so important. I drank @GatoradeEndurance Cherry thirst quencher today and loved the flavor. It was tasty, but not overpowering. I also used a Blackberry gel after about an hour. But, we already know I love all the gel flavors!

I’m training for First Watch Sarasota Half and 🏃‍♀️ the St Pete Run Fest Half on November 17. Both races use Gatorade Endurance on course, so I'm happy to be training with it. Just 8 weeks until Sarasota, and 12 weeks until St. Pete!

Click here for a discount code for First Watch Sarasota Half & Relay.

#GatoradeEndurance #GEnduranceBR #Ad #BibChat #BibRavePro #MyFuelMyJourney
#ShareYourStory #FormulatedForFarther #ThirstQuencher #RunnerFuel #RunSarasota
#RunStPete #RunTampa #RunFlorida #SarasotaBR #HalfTraining #BibRave #KeyWestHalfBR

This Fall, I'm Fueling My Journey with Gatorade Endurance

8/11/2019

I'm beyond excited about training for two goal races this Fall using Gatorade Endurance!

Both of my races, the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon and the St Pete Run Fest Half, serve Gatorade Endurance on course. So, using it for training is a perfect fit.

Gatorade Endurance supports runners of all shapes, sizes, ages, and attitudes. I learned this first-hand when they agreed to support my race goals with Endurance Formula products for my training. Hooray!

Keep reading to learn more about my goals.

Disclaimer: I’m promoting Gatorade Endurance as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to find and write race reviews.

Gatorade Endurance and Encouragement

Gatorade Endurance sent me a personal note and this package of wonderful gels and thirst quencher powder! They're helping me train for two half marathons that represent milestone goals for me.

Gatorade Endurance sent me a personal note and this package of wonderful gels and thirst quencher powder! They're helping me train for two half marathon goals this Fall. (Photo Credit: ThisOldRunner)

My Milestone Races

I want to run a personal best in my last two half marathons before my birthday. My goal is to end my 50s with fast finishes, then race right into my next decade.

But here's the rub. Summer training in Florida is brutal. Heat. Humidity. Stormy downpours. Bright sunshine. I actually like Summer, but it's so stinking hot here.

If you don't hydrate and fuel properly you'll melt. The temps and humidity make it hard to train. Inconsistent training makes Fall PRs a challenge.

I love the half marathon distance. It takes training, discipline, and dedication to complete 13.1 miles. It's a meaningful endeavor. But how to stay motivated?

This year, I'm sharing my goals publicly to stay accountable. It's always good to have cheerleaders and witnesses!

Crossing the finish line at the Sarasota Half Marathon.

Goal: Beat my 2015 First Watch Sarasota time.

Posing with my medal after the St Pete Run Fest Half Marathon.

Goal: Beat my 2017 St Pete Run Fest finish time.

My Endurance Running Story

I never (ever) expected to be a runner. As a kid, I ran around the yard. In high school, I ran to catch my bus. At 20, I maybe ran the bases in intramural softball — twice.

Despite growing up in a family of athletes, I was a spectator when it came to sports. I watched my parents, siblings, husband, and children participate. But, I never felt the need to compete.

My motto was, “No thanks, I hate to sweat.”

Everything changed when I saw my daughter run her first half-marathon. I was spectating at the starting line, and was surprised (shocked?) to see that everyone there wasn’t a 20 year-old thin mint.

My motto was, "No thanks, I hate to sweat."

And those people didn’t just start the race — they finished it!

I was so moved by everyone’s determination, I cheered for people I didn’t know as they crossed the finish line. Tears filled my eyes when my daughter received her medal. It was amazing. Inspiring. Just, wow!

My daughter inspired me to attempt running a half marathon.

One of my faves is running with her. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

I began to wonder if, maybe — just maybe — I could run a half marathon. I started by walking.

I trained for 13 months before I finished my first half in February 2013. One medal, and I was all in.

Nine months later I ran/walked my second half. I’ve been running ever since.

Running has given me more than muscle tone. Running has improved my balance and agility. It provides an inner peace I didn’t realize I was missing.

The most important thing I’ve learned is to take my time and train smart. I’m patient with my progress. As a result, I’m healthy and moving.

P.S. I like to sweat, now!

I'm a Late Bloomer Athlete

When asked to describe my type of athlete, my first response is late bloomer. I'm happy about becoming an athlete later in life. When you start running at 52 no one expects you to run a 6-minute mile. Every achievement is a delight.

Since I'm an older runner, I pay extra attention to nutrition, rest, and recovery. I pace myself, and always respect the heat and humidity.

So far, patience has given me 7 years of injury-free running.

Why I'm Training with Gatorade Endurance

I'm using Gatorade Endurance for several important reasons:

Carbs plus potassium, sodium, and electrolytes in an easy to take and digest drink. These are vital when you train for hours. Hydration is everything in the heat.
Taste. I like Lemon/lime, Cherry, and Watermelon thirst quencher powder. Full disclosure: watermelon is my fave!
Energy Gel Flavors! Mango, Apple Pear, Blackberry, and Vanilla.
Gels that are fluid and easy to swallow on the run. These aren't sticky or super sweet. That means a lot to me in the middle of a training run or race.

I love that I'm training with the same fuel that's offered on course at my races. I don't have to worry about it on race day. I can focus on running.

Hand holding a Gatorade Endurance gel in mango flavor.

Mmmm! Mango! I fell in love with this flavor the first time I tried it. It's fluid and smooth and goes down easy while runnning. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Picture of Gatorade Endurance thirst quencher powder.

Gatorade Endurance loaded me up with lemon/lime, cherry, and watermelon flavors. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

When I set my mind on something, I try to follow this strategy:

1. Set a Goal.
2. Make a Plan.
3. Get to Work.
4. Stick to It.
5. Reach Goal.

So, I've set my goal (PR in two half marathons in a row) and made a training plan. It's time to do the work! The First Watch Sarasota Half is in 10 weeks. St. Pete Run Fest is in 14 weeks. Eeek!

Good luck if you're training for your own milestone races. Find me on Instagram and Twitter @ThisOldRunner. We can encourage each other.

See you at the starting line!

#GatoradeEndurance #ThirstQuencher #RunnerFuel #GEnduranceBR #BibRave #BibChat #BibRavePro #GEndurance #FuelMyJourney #MyFuelMyJourney #ShareYourStory #FormulatedForFarther #Ad #Fitness #FitnessInspiration #WeRunSocial #RunnersOfInsta #FitFluential #Motivation #GoalRaces #OlderRunner #RunningTowardsRetirement #MRTT #InstaRunner #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunSarasota #RunTampaBay

Rainy Day Monday: Week Two of Fall Half Marathon Training Begins

8/5/2019

I started Week Two of my Fall training schedule today. I'm focused on lots of hill repeats to build endurance. My 5K in Pennsylvania later this month will be a good benchmark.

About 1.5 miles into my hill repeats, I spotted a curtain of rain headed my way. I ducked under an oak to wait out the water. Five minutes later, I was back at my hill repeats and the sun was shinning. Oh, Florida!

My only regret was that I was so excited about breaking in a new pair of shoes, I didn't check the weather. Oh well, they'll dry. Besides, there's something wonderful about running in the rain, so I was happy.

Finished with 3+ miles and a check mark on my training plan.

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Fall Racing Plans

This season, I'm going to say my goals out loud so I have witnesses and accountability. I won't go on and on about my miles and times, but I'll discuss motivation, nutrition, fuel, and most of all: GOALS!

Goal Races

Half Marathons are my jam this season! I'm warming up with shorter races that fit into my schedule. But come October, it's full-time pursuit of half mara PRs before 2019 ends.

October 20, 2019 - First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon
November 17, 2019 - St Pete Run Fest Half Marathon

My next post will describe how I'm going to get to those PRs. Until then, stay hydrated everyone. It's super hot and humid out there!

Best wishes to my running friends who are training for the Chicago Marathon. It's brutal to be running double-digits in Florida right now!

How to Make a Slushie with Gatorade Endurance Formula Watermelon Flavor

6/21/2018

Here's another way to stay hydrated this summer. Turn your Gatorade Endurance Formula powder into a refreshing slushie. It's super easy and worth it.

Ingredients

Gatorade Endurance Formula Thirst Quenching Powder in Watermelon
Crushed Ice
Water

Directions

Stir water and watermelon mix together in your hydration bottle until dissolved. I use a 16 oz bottle with 2 scoops of watermelon powder.
Crush your ice in a processor or blender until you have small pieces.
Optional: Add fresh (seeded) watermelon and blend on high for 10 seconds. Stop and stir with a spoon. Blend again if needed.*
Pour the crushed ice into your hydration bottle. Shake well, or stir.

*I like to keep a few bigger ice chunks so it lasts longer on my run.

Disclaimer: I received Gatorade Endurance Formula Powder and Energy Gels as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about become a BibRave Pro (ambassador) and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews

Gatorade Endurance Formula in Watermelon.

Gatorade Endurance Formula, bottle, and ice.

Gather your powder, bottle, and ice.

Photo Credits: ThisOldRunner.com

Pouring Gatorade powder into hydration bottle

Mix Gatorade Endurance Formula powder and water in your hydration bottle. Stir well.

Put a glassful of ice into a processor.

Crushed ice after processing in blender.

Process until ice is slushie size.

If you like, add watermelon to the crushed ice and blend again.

Happy Hydrating!

The new watermelon flavor is so good. I have to admit turning it into a slushie makes it feel more like a treat than responsible hydrating. The truth is, it's both!

Here are some fun facts about Gatorade Endurance Formula Powder:

300 mg of sodium
140 mg of potassium
90 calories
22 g carbs

There are NO artificial flavors. I love the new lighter taste. It's less sweet, which I like a lot. The watermelon Endurance Formula is available at Gatorade.com right now. It will be in stores soon.

Have You Tried Gatorade Endurance Gels?

Gatorade Endurance Formula Energy Gels come in 4 flavors. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

If you prefer gels over powder, check out Endurance Formula Energy Gels.

Gatorade expanded it's taste palete. I was already a fan of blackberry, vanilla, and apple pear flavors. Now I'm loving the mango, too.

You can get these online or in your favorite sports store. They're not sticky or gooey. The formula is more liquid than traditional gels. It's easy to swallow on the run or during a race. The carbs, sodium, and potassium will keep you fueled!

#FormulatedForFarther #GatoradeEndurance #GEnduranceBR #BibRavePro #BibChat #SummerRunning #Hydration #SummerRunningTips #WatermelonGatorade #MangoGatorade

Gatorade Endurance Formula Adds Watermelon and Mango to the Mix!

6/12/2018

Wonderful Watermelon Gatorade

Nothing says Summer like watermelon! I love, love, love watermelon. That's why I feel lucky to test the brand new Gatorade Endurance Formula "Thirst Quenching Powder." It's coming to your town soon.

If you're an endurance athlete, or any kind of athlete, who is working out this summer, give it a try. It has a lighter, LESS sweet taste than regular Gatorade. That makes it a winner for me. (I usually cut traditional Gatorade in half with water.)

Besides a better taste, the Endurance Formula has more sodium and potassium than the regular Gatorade. It's really, truly, perfect for long runs and fueling in the heat of summer. The extra sodium and potassium are going to protect you from muscle cramps, people!

I was so excited about the new watermelon flavor I made this video:

(Video credit: This Old Runner)

Gatorade Endurance is #FormulatedForFarther

The Endurance Formula has 2 times more sodium, and 3 times more potassium than traditional Gatorade.

Here are the stats for a 12 ounce serving:

90 calories
310mg sodium
140mg potassium
22g carbohydrates

You can also get #GatoradeEndurance powder in Lemon-Lime, Orange, and Cherry. I've tried all the flavors, and like them. But I think I'm staying with Watermelon for my summertime workouts!

Check it out at Gatorade.com/endurance and get yourself some.

Mmmm! Mango Endurance Engergy Gel

Gatorade Endurance didn't stop their summer flavor fest with watermelon. Nope. There's Mango Energy Gel in the Endurance Formula, too.

Gatorade Endurance Formula Mango Energy Gel

(Photo credit: This Old Runner)

I first tried the Gatorade Endurance Energy Gel during a half marathon. I lost my fuel on course. I needed fuel at mile 9 and didn't have any option other than to try something brand new. It turned out to be A-Okay.

The endurance energy gels are much lighter than other gels. More fluid and less sticky. Less sugary, too. And the flavors are fantastic. It was easy to swallow late in a race. No issues with an upset stomach, either.

I've used these gels ever since I found them on course. I really like the Vanilla, Apple Pear, and Blackberry. And now my mood is Mango!

Again, the endurance formula is good for long runs, hikes, biking, etc. Each pouch contains:

20 mg of carbohydrate
90 calories
100 mg sodium
35g potassium

I hope you'll give them a try. If you're looking for endurance fuel that has a lighter taste, I recommend these. You can get all the awesomeness at Gatorade.com/Endurance or your local sports store.

#FormulatedForFarther #GatoradeEndurance #GEnduranceBR #BibRavePro #BibChat #EnduranceAthetes #FuelForAthletes #MangoGel #WatermelonGatorade #MangoGatorade #RunnerFuel #RaceFuel

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