Now after running 4 of 6 of this mountain series, I am starting to get it and get into it just a little more… thinking when I am running, listening to my nikeplus coaches, Joan & Alberto…. thinking about the fact that I am out on the trail at least twice a week for specific training that really helps my results and prep for these races.
Tips that I have learned.
1. Sport specific helps you to gear up for the situation you are going to race in. If you are mountain running you need to run trails and uphills in particular. If you are road running, flat and pavement is fine, and so on….
2. Focus on the trail, firm landing is necessary to stay injury free. Keep your eyes open for the solid landing spot for your foot so not to turn an ankle or twist your knee (coming from someone who has had both issues). Look for rocks, stumps, dips in the trail, trees, branches sticking out in the trail, side hill and the best path to take so you can keep moving at the pace you have an not slow down.
3. Did I say keep your eyes open? Yes – keep them open and forward. Kind of like skiing, you don’t want the snow snakes to get you – so look ahead. I had some sweat in my eye today – running at 1 PM wasn’t so “cool” if you know what I mean…. and it was really hard to see.. so maybe a sweatband to clear your face, but always – yes – keep your eyes open. My ankle is still sore from last weekend, after the girl past me I was working to catch her and was looking TOO far ahead. Look to where your foot wants to land, needs to land, when you are on the trail. It is pretty intense running trails because of that footing issue, but such an accomplishment and a work out!
4. Don’t look back. Not even for competition. Just assume they are RIGHT behind you (15 pony tails on your back – as Steve would say). If you see them it may psych you out, and they are pacing with you anyway, so wait until they pass you to pour it on, or at least let them get close enough so you can save your energy – obviously they are pushing to catch you.
5. Know the course. It is tough to “drive” a mountain course, but it is good to know the terrain so you know what is in store for you. Be prepared in all aspects. Drink a lot of fluid the day before and the morning and eat something for breakfast and bring GU along just in case you feel low or the race goes beyond 45 min.
6. Stretch & refuel. The most important part of staying injury free is the stretching. I am notorious for NOT stretching, so I need to remind myself. Refuel – watch out for dehydration, keep drinking after the event and any post fuel option you like (mine option is Physique from Shaklee – LOVE it!) you will feel like new if you refuel right!
That’s all for now – – Loon is Sunday morning and we are going boating all weekend – so it should be fun – and I promise to KEEP MY EYES open! Wish me luck – need to keep that leaders jersey amongst those other FAST western MASS women!
