Progress Check: Fall Half Marathon Training

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

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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.

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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.  
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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!

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