20 days and counting until the Gate River Run!  I’ve been super inconsistent with training.  Partly Mostly due to excuses – bad excuses like it’s too dark, it’s too cold, it’s too early, I’m too tired, I just want to relax, I don’t want to shower- again… you name it, I’ve used it.  With 20 days left, I really can’t procrastinate any longer.  I must start. Now.

Confession: I probably can run 9.3 without too much trouble.  I’ve been doing cycle classes 2-3 times per week and other cross training activities.  I will randomly run 5 or 6 miles on the treadmill if I can just get going.  The problem is, I’m not consistent.  I want need to be able to complete 9.3 miles and feel great the rest of the day.  I’ve done the River Run twice now and both times I completed the race, I felt so sick the rest of the day.  This year WILL be different.   The farthest I’ve run recently (ok, over Thanksgiving) was 8 miles.  I want to complete the Gate River Run feeling like I’ve given my all and beat my prior year times.  I’ve never beaten 1:30 but this year, my goal is to average at least 9 minute miles.  This would put me at 1:24.

So the question is, how and I going to achieve my 2 goals of 1) 9 minute miles and 2) feeling great the rest of the day?  Answer- Consistent training! 

I’ve used Hal Higdon’s training program before so I’m jumping back on the bandwagon with 3 weeks to go!  Click here to learn more about the training programs.  Here’s my routine:

To get me moving, I’ve also found some GREAT motivational quotes on Pinterest (where else?!).

And then there are a few quotes that can make me laugh every time I read them.  I laughed at this one because it is SO TRUE!

Today I’ve realized I’m in crunch time, so I made a crunchy dessert! Makes sense right!?  This is a little twist to rice crispy treats.  I call it Cocoa Crispy Peanut Butter Treats.  In a large microwave safe bowl, melt 3 tbsp butter and 10 ounces/1 package marshmallows for 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute.  Add 1/2 cup peanut butter and melt for 15 seconds.  Fold in 5 cups cocoa crisp cereal.  Pour into a container and eat!  Super easy and delicious snack.  Be careful not to overcook the marshmallows.

Are you currently training for any runs or other races?