So, I think I'm ready for a hot, long run tomorrow morning. Dallas, this summer, has offered up some of the hottest days in history to hit the streets and run. If you're in Dallas, I don't have to tell you what the weather is going to be like. I won't waste time positing a pic of the weather app from my iPhone. A true pet peeve for one of my running buddies, Anthony Logsdon. 
But, for the heck of it I took a pic of my running nutrients to post today. I stopped in at my trusted local running store to stock up on gels, beans and waffles.
I've noticed over the years of long running that I really hate fueling up during a run. It really doesn't make sense, but I have the hardest time convincing myself to fuel my body during the thick of the run. Something happens to my brain at about mile 4 when I'm usually feeling great. I know I have another 16 miles to go, but I cannot imagine that I'll ever feel bad. "Surely, I can run forever," I tell myself. Therefore, I usually just take a quick sip of water and press on. Around mile 15 I find myself wondering, "how on earth will I ever finish?"
That was me. A year ago, even two or three years ago. This year has been different. I've been working hard at taking in electrolytes and calories at regular intervals. I have not perfected it yet, but I know it's important to do. Since I'm qualified clydesdale, according to most marathon officials, I burn more energy per minute than those shirtless, sub 8 min/mile stallions. I lose more water, too. I tested myself before and found that I lose a whopping 9 lbs. on 20+ mile days. That is an entire gallon of water! I cannot figure out how to put all that back during the run, but I'm trying to reduce the loss as well. Don't know if that is truly possible, but I believe extra calories during the run will certainly help.
Over the last couple of long runs I've done much better at taking in supplements and water. I can tell the difference in my ability to finish and recover.
Here's a quick glance at my replenishment plan for tomorrow morning:
1. One Honey Stinger Waffle about one hour before start
2. 1-2 Endurolytes capsules every other water stop
3. One Honey Stinger energy gel at alternating water stops (alternating from the Endurolytes capsules)
4. Jelly Belly Sport Beans - whenever needed to relieve boredom spells
5. EAS Myoplex Shake (after the run recovery drink)
If I manage to consume this heavy diet of packaged nutrients (still highly unlikely), we're talking over 900 calories. Let's compare that to the 3100+ cals I'll burn and there's little wonder why these runs are so tough. But what's not to love? I get to hang out with a great group of people, laugh a whole lot, and challenge my body and mind. I'm blessed! Who cares about the heat?
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