National Running Day, Summer Survival

Here it is June 2nd already and apparently, it's National Running Day!

Yippee.

Seriously, running is a great way to build up cardio-respiratory endurance and depending on the surface you choose to run on, it isn't as hard on your joints as you think.  Ideally, run on a cushioned track,  or maybe even grass.  I know that isn't realistic so let's settle for asphalt over concrete!  Research has shown that our joints will adapt to what we do consistently.

Although this isn't my favorite, some people like the old reliable TREADMILL.  At least it gets you out of the elements.

But if you're like me and you enjoy the great outdoors, we have to respect that summer is here and the
higher temperatures are playing havoc with our body's cooling system. We need to make sure we are drinking plenty of fluids before, during, and after a run or any outdoor activity.  If you're a salty sweater, you may need a sports drink containing sodium to help you replenish the salt and other electrolytes (primarily sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium) you have lost through sweat.

How do you know if you're a salty sweater? 

That's easy.  Lick your arm.

Do you taste like a french fry?  Do you need some pepper with that salt?

OK.  OK.  You don't have to taste yourself but if you feel your neck or your arm and it's gritty, you are most likely a salty sweater. 

Running essentials:

A hat to keep the sun off the face, a hydration belt, sunglasses, and some entertainment.   Not shown:  breathable clothing and appropriate footwear.  These are NOT options.

Oh, you noticed that beer?  

That's for later.  ;-)


My next race is the Wounded Warrior Half Marathon June 13th, in Las Colinas.  This is the first year they are offering a half marathon and part of the course will be on nature trails.  I'm looking forward to enjoying the beauty of nature as I sweat.  Maybe there will be some SHADE!

I plan to stay focused and calm with my thoughts on the injured soldiers the race is honoring.

Enjoy the outdoors!

One Moment, One Memory

Welcome to summer! It's almost hot enough to cook breakfast on the pavement.

My best advice is to stay in or near a body of water. If a grill and close friends are nearby, even better!

Here's a little something I wrote in honor of this day:

My instructions for this writing exercise were to use this phrase in a story of 100 words or less:

"May I help you, miss? You look puzzled.”

“Mmmm… thank you, I’m just looking for my father. We came in together a moment ago, but he seems to have wandered off.”

One Moment, One Memory

It's a typical July day in Texas, hot and muggy with a slight breeze. White specks color the green hill on the horizon.

Carol checks her purse for a tissue.

"May I help you, miss? You look puzzled.”

“Mmmm… thank you, I’m just looking for my father. We came in together a moment ago, but he seems to have wandered off.”

Carol helps her mom and follows the others. Words are spoken. A flag is presented. Heads bow.

Staring at the tombstone, Carol whispers, "Mmmm....yes. I think you are right. He is not here."

*My father was a veteran but he wasn't killed in action. He's buried in the Veteran's Cemetery in Dallas, Texas.

Stay active, play safe, and enjoy the rest of your holiday!

Check in, Let Go, and Get Off the Couch!

Yea! I found my yoga blog. I've wanted to come back here so many times but I always let something else get in the way.

It's spring. It's time to check in with ourselves. Yes, I know we should be constantly checking in with ourselves and getting rid of "stuff" in our lives that isn't keeping us on the right path. We should be opening ourselves up for new experiences, letting go of those old habits that hold us back.

So what gets in the way?

Everything and nothing is usually my response. Work, family commitments, and other hobbies are the normal excuses.

I've been teaching more classes at Keller Pointe. The members are great and it is a wonderful place to teach. The room is significantly smaller than the group exercise room at LA Fitness so it's easier to feel connected to the group during a class.

I'm teaching a Pilates class and a "Fit & Fabulous" class to a group of VERY fit seniors and not-so-seniors.

I am taking time to continue on my path of fitness by participating in more long distance races and I have started to compete in the sprint distance triathlons. The sprint distance is usually about 300 meters of swimming, an approximately 12-mile bike ride and a 5K (3.1 mile) run. I finish in about 1.5 hours. The duration is similar to a half marathon but it takes me a little longer to run the 13.1 miles.

This spring take a moment to sit quietly and ask yourself if there is something you are hanging onto that you can just let go of and enjoy the freedom and peace that can bring to you.

Finally, don't forget your yoga. There is no rule that says you have to sit down for a long practice. Taking a few minutes to warm-up and focus on a few basic postures with focused breathing can work its magic.

Namaste.