This Old Runner Writes About Running

Is It Time for Resolutions or Habits?

1/4/2021

Photo by Jude Beck on Unsplash

If you live in the Western Hemisphere you're probably familiar with the tradition of setting New Year's Resolutions.

The most common New Year's Resolutions are:
1. Lose Weight
2. Exercise More
3. Get Organized

I agree with all three of these resolutions. I want to lose weight after the holiday feasting season. I want to exercise more to reach my goal of running a marathon. And, I want to get organized and reduce the rest of the clutter in my home.

The problem with resolutions is they're easy to ignore after a few days or weeks if they don't become HABITS. So, this year I'm resolving to create strong habits to improve my regular and running life.

How to Succeed at a New Habit

Author and Habit Journal creator, James Clear suggests the best way to build a new habit is to start with a teeny, tiny goal. This strategy is backed up by research done at Duke University.

Below is a quick recap of Clear's How to Build a Habit Guide. You can read his book, Atomic Habits for a deep dive.

1. Start with an Very Small Habit

Make your goal so small you can't fail. For wannabe runners: Start with a walk around the block, not running a mile.

2. Increase Your Habit in Small Ways

Habits, like building increased running mileage, should be gradual. If you increase your habit by 1% on a regular schedule, it will add up fast.

Adding one city block to your walk/run each day is easy. After a week, you'll be moving 7 more blocks! That's a great result for a small daily increase.

3. As You Build, Break Your Habit into Chunks

Okay, as you add little bits of mileage, you'll soon be walking/running far. Clear suggests you can stay engaged by breaking your habit into parts. For example, instead of walking for an hour break it into two 30-minute walks. Stroll in the morning and again in the evening.

For sweaty workouts like running and power walking it may work best to set a weekly goal. Then, break your mileage or time goal into smaller pieces you accomplish over 7 days.

4. When You Slip, Get Back on Track Fast

If you miss a day (or week) don't abandon your goal. Simply start again when and where you are. Life is too unpredictable to be harsh with yourself over missed workouts.

5. Be Patient. Keep a Pace You Can Sustain.

It's hard to be patient when you want to lose weight, run faster, or complete any goal. Real success comes with consistent efforts. The trick is to set a realistic starting point and goal.

No one gets up one day and runs a great marathon. It takes a long time to prepare. It starts with a running habit that grows to a long distance over time. Start where you are and build on it.

Training includes good days, bad days, hard days, and easy days — all those days get you to the finish line.

I'm Kicking Off My 2021 Habit

It makes me nervous to say this out loud, but my resolution, goal, habit, dream is to run a marathon sometime in the next year or so. It's a long-term goal I plan to achieve by improving my running habit.

I don't expect many in-person races until late in 2021 which makes it the perfect time to train for a marathon. My plan is to re-start at the beginning.

I'll follow a series of training plans. I'll begin with a 5K, then a 10K, then a half, and then a marathon. That will get me to the end of the 2021 in a slow-growing, methodical way.

Setting Goals Along the Way

My hope is that in-person races can resume by Fall. Based on that, I've scheduled the following events to keep me on track with my goal and habit.

My first race for 2021 is virtual. I'm running the #HC15K Louisville. (Image: Hot Chocolate 15K/5K)

I'll test my running habit at the Best Damn Race Triple Challenge in October. (Use THISOLDRUNNER discount code to save 10% on any race and join me!)

Hot Chocolate 15K Louisville
April 3, 2021

My first race for 2021 is the Virtual Hot Chocolate 15K Louisville. There are virtual events across the USA for the 2021 season.

Hippie Dash 5K
May 15, 2021

Right now, the Hippie Dash 5K is an in-person race. Of course, that could change, but maybe it won't.

Best Damn Race
October 15-17, 2021

I'll run the Best Damn Safety Harbor Triple Challenge on October 16 & 17. It's a 5K and 10K on Saturday followed by a Half on Sunday.

St Pete Run Fest
November 15, 2021

If the Best Damn Race Challenge goes well, I'll run the St. Pete Run Fest Half a month later. I'll add another race in December to maintain fitness.

St Pete Beach Classic
January 15-17, 2022

Then, if everything comes together, I'll run the St Pete Beach Classic Marathon Challenge January 15-17 2022. That's 26.2 miles over two days. (Registration opens May 1, 2021 so I'm gonna be committed!)

I know, I know. I broke the 26.2 miles into chunks just like James Clear suggested. That makes my marathon a doable goal that excites me! #WinWin

Cheers to Your New 2021 Habits

That's my plan for 2021. Cheers to everyone out there who has their own goal for 2021. I wish you success all along the way. Happy New Year!

Looking for a Race to Run in 2021? Check Out My Race Discounts Page for Events Across the USA.

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My Gatorade Endurance Arrived Just in Time for Race Week!

11/11/2019

Gatorade Endurance bag with a dozen gels and six thirst quencher pouches.

Gatorade Endurance has been fueling my training journey this Fall. Here's to proper fueling and good results on Sunday! (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

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.

It's St Pete Run Fest Week in St. Pete, Florida

Thanks to Gatorade Endurance I have a bag full of fueling goodness. All my faves are here: gels in blackberry, vanilla, apple pear, and mango. And, cherry and watermelon Thirst Quencher.

This is the fuel the St. Pete Run Fest offers on course, which makes me happy. Wish me luck — I fell on the stairs two days ago. I'm bruised, but not broken. I'm working on my mental endurance game now.

If you’re running this weekend, come say hello at the race expo. I'll be in the Best Damn Race tent on Saturday morning. Get a personal look at all the 2020 BDR medals for Safety Harbor, Savannah, Orlando, and New Orleans. You can register with a discount!

#GatoradeEndurance #ThirstQuencher #Ad #RunnerFuel #GEnduranceBR #BibRave #BibChat #BibRavePro #GEndurance #FuelMyJourney #MyFuelMyJourney #ShareYourStory #FormulatedForFarther #WeRunSocial #RunnersOfInsta #GoalRaces #OptOutside #MRTT #InstaRunner #RunStPete #RunTampa #RunSarasota #RunTampaBay #TrailRunning @BibRave #BestDamnRace

Update: Fall Racing Goals

11/5/2019

In early August, I set two goals for my Fall 2019 half marathon fitness journey. I wanted to PR two half marathons before my 60th birthday.

I teamed up with Gatorade Endurance to fuel my training over the Summer and into Fall. The Gatorade Endurance gels and thirst quencher helped get me through the brutal heat and humidity of a Florida summer.

I made sure I fueled early and often so I didn't run out of energy before I ran out of road. Paying attention helped me perform better in both training and races.

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.

The First Watch Sarasota 10K was awesome and included a BibRave Pros Meet Up.

Benchmarks

I filled in my training calendar with benchmark races in a variety of distances.
And then I ran them.

I felt strong before the First Watch Sarasota on October 20. It was going to be a scorcher, but I was determined to beat my previous finish time.

I loved running the First Watch Sarasota Half. But I couldn't PR because the race was shortened to a 10K due to safety issues.

I didn't get a chance to beat my previous half time. But, I did matched my 10K split to the second. Ha!

Goal Half Marathon Race

Nov. 17 is my second goal race, the St. Pete Run Fest Half.

I'm excited to run through the city. And, I'm optimistic about a PR. I know I'm going to need some strong mind over matter skills for this one.

I'll be hyper-aware about hydrating and fueling before and during the race.

The weather outlook is good. We may get temps in the low 70s which would be AWESOME.

I believe cooler temps combined with a strong mental/physical game and proper fueling can get me to the finish line in less time than 2018.

This is the half marathon medal for the 2019 St Pete Run Fest Half Marathon.

#GatoradeEndurance #GEnduranceBR #FuelMyJourney #MyFuelMyJourney #StPeteRunFest #RunStPete #RunTampaBay #RunFlorida #RunSarasota #RunBradenton #GatoradeEnduranceGels #ThirstQuencher #BibChat #BibRavePro

Time for More Fueling Practice with Gatorade Endurance

9/28/2019

Last Saturday, I ran the One Step Closer to the Cure 10K race as a training run. It's was my unofficial kick off of racing season.

As I've mentioned, I like how races keep me motivated during a training cycle. A race helps me check my pace and endurance progress. Plus, it's always easier to get a run done if you have company.

Saturday's race around downtown St. Pete was a good challenge for me. I'm happy with my effort. I used Gatorade Endurance gel for race fuel. I took one before the race and ran steady for all 6 miles. I carried a second gel as backup, but didn't use it.

I had Gatorade Endurance lemon/lime thirst quencher in my water bottle. There was water only at the aid stations, so I was happy to have the electrolytes. (It's still very hot.)

I needed more than 6 miles for my weekend long run so I laced up my running shoes on Sunday to add 4 more.

I think bright colors and fun flavors improve my runs. So, I wore my bright orange Bib Rave tank and fueled with mango Gatorade Endurance gels for my additional miles. I felt good and both runs went well. Hooray running!

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

I ran a 10K as a training run. I fueled with Gatorade Endurance Apple Pear gel. Some of the perks of using a race for training is you get a shirt and medal and post race goodies when you're done. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Finisher medal for One Step Closer to the Cure 10K Race

Post race, I grabbed a 3 Daughters Brewing Florida Hard Seltzer and a Gatorade Whey Protein Bar. (Photo Credit: This Old Runner)

Finishing the One Step Closer to the Cure 10K. (Photo credit: CMOCF)

I headed out for more miles the day after my 10K race. Bright Bib Rave colors and yummy gel flavors kept me happy. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Another Weekend, Another Training Race

This Sunday, I'm running a 15K as a training race. It's a flat, fast course at the Fort DeSoto Distance Classic. After I run 9.3 miles I'll know if I'm ready for my upcoming half marathon.

My fueling plan for the longer distance is to take a gel 15-20 minutes before the race, one at mile 4, and another at mile 8. It's going to be warm from the start, so fueling and hydration matter a lot.

I'll carry a water bottle with Gatorade Endurance thirst quencher, and take advantage of the six aid stations on the 15K course. This race offers water and Gatorade on course.

Headed to the finish line in a previous Ft. DeSoto Distance Classic. (Photo credit: Florida Road Races)

2019 Fort DeSoto Distance Classic Medal.

The 2019 medal for the Fort DeSoto Distance Classic. (Photo credit: Florida Road Races)

Counting Down to My Goal Half Marathons

Oct 20: First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon

Welp! It's just three weeks until the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon. It happens October 20th on the waterfront, bridges, roads, and neighborhoods of Sarasota.

I'm nervous because this is an early season half marathon. It will be warm, humid, and sweaty. (Okay, I'm also nervous because I told everyone I want to PR!) But, it's one of my favorite courses, so I'm looking forward to running it.

If you want to join me in Sarasota, hurry up and register! The price jumps on October 12. Feel free to use my code: "BRSARASOTA19" to get $10 OFF the half or relay; $5 Off the 10K. They've added a 5K race this year, but I don't have a discount code for the 5K.

Use my code before the Oct. 12 price increase! SAVE $10 on the Half or Relay; $5 on the 10K with "BRSARASOTA19"

Nov. 17: St. Pete Run Fest Half Marathon

Just one month after the First Watch Sarasota Half, I'll run the St. Pete Run Fest Half Marathon in downtown St. Petersburg. It's my final half marathon in my 50s, and I'd like to PR this race, too.

I'm really excited about my big races. See you at the starting lines!

Progress Check: Fall Half Marathon Training

9/12/2019

Anyone Else Do This?

I just realized I've been matching my fuel to my shirts. It feels like a luxury since I have lots of Gatorade Endurance fuel in my training kit this Summer. Still, it made me laugh.

Video credit: This Old Runner

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.

Time for a #MyFuelMyJourney Check-In

In August, I revealed that my Fall racing schedule includes two serious race goals. I want to PR the last two half marathons I run in my 50s.

Those PRs can be 30 seconds and I'll be happy. The real challenge isn't my finishing time, it's staying focused and getting in good solid training despite distractions.

Thanks to Gatorade Endurance, I'm training with the same fuel that's on course at the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon on October 20, and the St. Pete Run Fest Half on November 17. (Psst! Race discount for Sarasota Half here.)

I love Gatorade Endurance products, and training with the same fuel the races use gives me one less thing to worry about.

What I am worried about is whether or not I'll be fully trained by October 20th.

Goal Race #1 is the First Watch Sarasota Half Marathon.

Goal Race #2 is St Pete Run Fest Half Marathon.

Training Work

It's been a super hot Summer. One of the hottest on record here in Florida. The humidity and heat make it hard to train hard. I substitute walks for runs on the really intense days.

In the past week, the early morning temps have dipped. It's only 78 degrees at 7:30 am now. That's encouraging. Running has been easier this week. Yet, I have to admit my 4-miler yesterday left me exhausted.

Training and Travel Don't Always Mix

I spent 2+ weeks out of town in August. It was wonderful to run in hilly locations and cooler temps. I managed to get my runs and cross-training done on most days.

The bad part about traveling was full days spent driving in a car. I always feel like a slug after sitting for 9 hours.

Races as Training Benchmarks

I'm smiling at the start of the 5K because it was 65 degrees! (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

This vacation 5k was hilly and fun! Beautiful course. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

I found a local race to run while on vacation. It was a well-run event in a charming town.

It was pure pleasure to run hills in mid-60 temps in August. I was encouraged by my race results. Nothing crazy, but on track.

Speaking of races, one of my favorite ways to train for a half marathon is to incorporate races into my schedule.

It's tough to find long races here during the Summer, but by mid-September the longer races appear.

I'm running a 10K on September 21, then a 15K a week later. Those races fit into my weekend long runs for training.

If you don't uses races for training, consider it. It's a great way to get in a supported long run.

I like checking my pace against the race clock. And, running with a bunch of people is always fun.

Gatorade Endurance Hydration and Fuel

My thirst quencher collection includes Cherry, Watermelon, and Lemon-Lime. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

Gatorade Endurance gels come in 4 flavors: Vanilla, Blackberry, Apple Pear, and Mango. (Photo credit: This Old Runner)

As always, I try to be diligent about hydration. Gatorade Endurance formula is great for Floridians.

All we have to do is walk around the yard for 10 minutes and we sweat out all our minerals.

I can always tell the difference between drinking lots of water, and drinking lots of water AND Gatorade Endurance.

I don't have problems with dehydration when I drink all the GE thirst quencher.

As far as the energy gels — I like all the flavors. Blackberry, Mango, Vanilla, and Apple Pear. They go down easy with no after taste.

Plus, did I mention they match my outfits!

Where Am I With My Training?

Today, I'm glad I have another month to prepare for First Watch Sarasota Half. I'm excited about running my shorter benchmark races to get an idea about race day performances.

Although my half marathons are in October and November, it will be warm. Not brutal, but probably in the 70s while running. I'll keep prepping for hot and humid conditions.

Until then, I'll be fueling my journey and thankful that I'm healthy, happy, and running.

Good luck with your running goals. See you at the starting line!

#GatoradeEndurance #GEnduranceBR #BibRavePro #BibChat #MRTT #WeRunSocial #OptOutside #MyFuelMyJourney #SarasotaBr #StPeteRunFest #RunStPete #RunSarasota #RunFL #FloridaRunner #BestDamnRace #HalfTraining #BibRave #RunSafetyHarbor

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