My Post Workout Nutrition and ZOOMA News!

Posted on July 24, 2012 Written by 9 Comments

Last fall I wrote about the importance of recovery snacks. After writing that post, I definitely started paying more attention to how I refuel after tough workouts and long runs. I always try to adhere to the 4:1 carbs to protein ratio, and I love products that are ready-made and make the calculation a lot easier!

A couple of months ago, I started experimenting with GU Recovery Brew after speed workouts and long runs. I like the fact that the Recovery Brew comes either in a canister or in single serve packets (I prefer these for stashing in my running bag).

Within 30 minutes after completing a tough run (ideally within 15 minutes), I refill my water bottle half way and then add the Recovery Brew packet. I shake it up to mix it well and then fill it up the rest of the way with water.

I cannot believe what a difference it has made in my recovery. I definitely don’t feel as sore the next day and I am not as ravenous when I get home from my run, since Recovery Brew packs 240 calories and 8 grams of protein. I also like that the mix contains arginine and glutamine (they help mediate the physiological effects of intense exercise).

GU Recovery Brew comes in three flavors: Strawberry Watermelon, Orange Pineapple and my favorite—Chocolate Smoothie. Since I would love to share the GU Recovery Brew love, I am going to give 4 packets to the first 6 people to leave me a comment on this post (packets will be Chocolate Smoothie).

There is also some exciting ZOOMA news! The ZOOMA race series is announcing a new race location via video on Thursday. Head over HERE and enter your guess for the new location and you could win a very cool SWAG bag! If you haven’t already registered for the ZOOMA Cape Cod Half Marathon and 10K, don’t forget to use the code and link to the right (towards the top) of this post!

I am sponsored by GU Energy Labs. 

Filed Under: Nutrition, Training Tagged: ,

My Love Affair with Progression Runs

Posted on June 15, 2012 Written by 1 Comment

Yesterday I had an AWESOME run. That combined with the beautiful sunny afternoon kicked me out of the rut I have been hanging in for the past few days!

I was a little apprehensive heading into this run, since I am now ramping up my mileage slowly to get in fighting shape for my fall half marathon. I did 8 miles total: 2 mile w/u, 5 mile cutdown (8:55, 8:45, 8:35, 8:25, 8:15 – No rest), 1 mile c/d.

I have always known that I would be a better distance runner than a sprinter. It takes me a good couple of miles before I feel like I really hit my stride. This is why, although I balk at 2 mile warm ups, they are a VERY good thing for me.

I felt great going at an easy pace and then I just kept upping the speed, I actually finished the last 0.4 miles at mile 7 at 6:45! Progression runs are also great at breaking up the monotony of a treadmill run. Your run is broken up into more manageable one mile chunks.

Yesterday was also a great day because I got to hang out with friends for our biweekly dinner and play date and the man in brown showed up with my GU Energy Labs delivery. One of the bonuses of being sponsored by GU is getting to order supplies quarterly at a great discount! Thanks GU!

I have been using the GU Recovery Brew in Orange-Pineapple after speed work and long runs with great results. More on that later—with an awesome giveaway!

This weekend I plan on piling on the miles—7 easy on Saturday and 12 on Sunday with w/6 x 60 sec surges @ 7:40 pace w/5 minutes of easy between starting at mile 7. My legs will definitely be tired on Monday! Winking smile

Filed Under: Nutrition, Training Tagged: , ,