First Long Run...perfect weather!

The weather yesterday was why I LOVE to train this time of year. The sun popped out (after hiding behind some clouds for about 20 minutes) and stayed with us the rest of the run. I don't know about you, but I actually could have dressed a little cooler.

I also noticed a lot of you were wearing leggings or long sweats. I always prefer to keep my legs free if the temp is above 30 degrees...try it and you'll see the difference it makes in your long runs. Legs usually don't get cold at all unless it's freezing, and of course, once you get 'em pumping, I have found that sweats can really "bog you down."

Also, I suggest that everyone (if you didn't yesterday) apply sunscreen to your face and exposed skin before running. As the runs get longer and longer, you will appreciate this bit of advice. Plus (as I happen to know) nothing ages your skin faster than sun exposure. We don't want to look like a bunch of old hags running down the street....so....use it, or lose it.
I recommend a "sport" sunscreen that won't burn your eyes as you begin to sweat...30spf (Banana Boat makes a good one).

Everyone looked GREAT

• Sue and Brintus chewed up the 8 miler, so there shouldn't be any problem tackling at least 10 this Sunday.
• The "Jessica sisters" looked like distance thoroughbreds, at least for the 2.5 miles that I saw...and Matt, as always, was looking dangerously strong on the road (nobody messes with you when you run with MC). These 3 are ready for 6-7 on Sunday (unless there is some new pain you're not telling me about).
• Helen was looking smooth and controlled--even while breaking in her new shoes (any new blisters there Helen?)...and Babs was getting her running groove back after an admittedly way loooooong layoff (once she gets going, you won't be able to stop her--this I know). You guys will probably be moving up to 4 or 5 miles this Sunday (we'll get you caught up with the other Halfers in a few weeks--don't worry). Let me know if 4-5 is a problem for ya.

This coming Sunday (Super Bowl Sunday) let's try and start a little earlier...say 12:45 if we can. I may bring a short DVD clip for us to watch which will help to focus us in a little clearer on our FORM....

Until then...make sure you run twice this week (don't run on Saturday)...and I'll see you next Sunday!

Dennis

3...2...1...

OK runners...time is here!

We have a good group to launch with next Sunday. Because of scheduling, illnesses, business, and a bunch of other reasons...many are BEHIND the schedule before we begin.

All is well...don't stress.

However...from this point on you must become disciplined and determined to get your runs in regularly and consistently if you want to finish the race successfully and train safely and without injury.

This Sunday, Jan 28th, we will meet at the church after second service. Plan on eating something and hydrating properly before then. We'll talk briefly before we go out and run together.

Plan on running between six to nine miles if you are a Marathoner.
Plan on running between two to four miles if you're going for the Half.

Are you Ready for some Running???

Attention Runners:

I have the training schedule that we will be following for 2007 Marathon DeMayo race. Our training officially started this week and calls for a long run this weekend of 6 miles.

If you're not there just yet, don't freak out....just don't let yourself fall too far behind before we get started :-) Build up slowly and you will completely avoid injury!

If you want me to email the schedule to you, drop me a line at dennisclifton@charter.net.