I've been running for about 11 years. Challenging myself by entering a race helps me to stay focused on running, pushes me a little harder and gets me out of my comfort zone and exercising. I haven't done a long distance race since 2009, that was a 1/2 marathon (21 KM). With only 84 days left to get my training in for the "Around the Bay Road Race 30K", I need to start increasing my distance. I am comfortable at the 10 - 15 KM, but I need to double the distance and feel comfortable with the distance. Each week, I will add an extra 5 KM to my long runs to get my distance up. On Tuesday's at the Runner's Den they do intervals. I don't really like intervals, but it does help with your speed and time. Intervals are repetitive running, for a short distance, at your top speed.
As a nutritionist, I am always curious to hear what other runners will eat before their long run. I get so many different answers, like peanut butter toast, oatmeal, eggs, even salmon. Before a long run I always start with a protein shake. I find it is not so filling and it will keep me going for the duration of the run. John, the owner of Quantum Nutrition and formulater of "Probiotic Whey Protein" has agreed to support me with their protein powder during my training. I am a huge advocate for probiotic. We are not getting sufficient amounts of these friendly bacterias. When John introduced his Probiotic Whey Protein at our staff meeting two years ago, I was very impressed. What a great idea. There is nothing else like this on the market. This Probiotic Whey Powder provides a blend of six probiotics and is 100% New Zealand whey isolate protein. This formulation not only provides a clean source of protein, it will improve overall gut health and support the immune system. Which is what I will need training through the winter months. New Zealand whey is non-GMO, antibiotic, hormone and pesticide free providing 25g of protein per serving. It is a great way to help restore muscle tissue and overall health.
When blending my protein drink, I always use water as the liquid. Other great addition are blueberries, bananas, flax, hemp or Udo's oil, Sea Vegetables (from Quantum Nutrition), maca powder, kefir. You don't need all these just pick some. You can see a complete list by clicking the link below.
I am so excited for this race. Can't wait to run through the finish line. Yet that's just one small part of it. The journey getting there is just as much FUN!
Don't forget to challenge yourself this winter. You'd be surprised what your body can do!
Enter your name and email address here to receive our monthly newsletter, with tips, recipes and news from Intent Nutrition.
