Take a Runcation without a race

With memorial weekend coming up, a friend of mine was saying she wasn't sure what to do for the holiday.  She wanted to get away, but she is training for an upcoming race and she didn't want to loose out on her training.  But she still wanted to getaway and see some new sights.  So I suggested she take a "Runcation" without a race.

Living in Utah, we have a vast amount of sightseeing opportunities.  Although as I have traveled around the country and ran through the different states, I can say the same for most of them.
I suggested she hop in the car, and drive to a new destination each day and go for a run somewhere that she never would train or run a race in otherwise.  We talked about a few options, and she'll be taking off later today to go vacation running in a few new places for the next 5 days.

Sometimes a change of scenery can be refreshing, you never know what you might discover if you take the road less traveled and set out to explore on foot.

TIPS FOR TAKING A RUNNING VACATION

* If you have a few days, try traveling to a new spot or area each day of your trip.
* Don't go alone.  Maybe bring the husband, your kids or a friend(s) with you, throw them on bikes and have them carry your water if they aren't runners.
* I think some of my best exploration trips have been the unplanned ones, but just in case it can be helpful to bring a good map with you.
* Even in new and unfamiliar surroundings it is best to remain aware of them.  If it looks like it may rain, and your in the desert near runoff area's, make sure you don't find yourself caught in flash flood situations.
*  Wouldn't hurt to carry pepperspray/tear gas sprays with you.
*  Bring water with you.  If you are going to be out a while, wouldn't hurt to pack a little toilet paper, just in case you have to take a break and squat with nature:)
*  Most importantly, just be safe so you can have a fun time seeing new places via running shoes:)

Runners Spotlight Let Me Introduce HEATHER

Every runner has a story, which pushes and drives them to do what they do. Because it's fascinating learning about others.  In return it also inspires and motivates us, so each Thursday I run a Runners Spotlight.

This week I'd like to introduce Heather. I asked Heather several questions, to tell part of her story and introduce you all to her. 

Heather Blogs at

Heather Runs Fast

Tell us what distances you like to run?

I like to run any distance, but I love to race the marathon!

How long have you been running?  Or at what age did you start running?

If you consider playing soccer, I've been running since I was 10ish, but running as a sport, for about 6 years.

What made you want to become a runner?  What is it that keeps you at it?

At first it was to loose the freshman 15, err 20, but now I run because I love it. I love challenging myself and seeing what my mind and body can do.

You have a lot of Bling pictured on your blog, brag a bit for us.  How many marathon's, halfs have you done to get a beautiful set of medals like those? 

Marathons: 8 Halfs: 8 and a dozen or so 5/10ks. As we runners know, the best medals come from fulls and halfs though :)

You travel a lot to do marathons, tell us some of your favorite parts about traveling to different races?

My husband and I love to make vacations out of races. Being from FL, we don't have too many local races to PR in, as there is a short window of good running weather. Traveling lets us experience all four seasons, haha. We also get to explore different parts of the good ole USA! Two birds with one stone :)

What has been your favorite race and distance you have run?  Tell us why?

This is a super hard question! Here's my best summary: Marine Corps was cool because I ran it with the hubs and the scenery was awesome, plus it was our first. CIM was memorable because we ran it on our honeymoon! Chicago was our first big marathon and it didn't disappoint. Virginia Beach=PR... enough said. Boston, well, it's Boston. 

If you could run any race in the entire world, where would it be and why?

Another tough question, but I'd have to go with the Athens Classic Marathon in Athens, Greece, back where it all started. And it doesn't hurt that it's in November... my wedding anniversary month! Hope my husband reads this post!

Do you run for fun?  Or run to compete?  Both?

Both for sure! If I am running to compete I look for a course than is conducive to setting a PR. But if I'm running for fun, the course or weather won't really matter, it's more the destination :)

Have you ever won a race or placed in your age group?

I have won one 5k (a race distance I rarely run) and one half marathon. Not going to lie, I was pretty stoked winning a race! I typically place in my age group in local races, but not in the larger marathons like Chicago, Boston, etc.

Have you experienced any trials/injuries/health issues that you have had to overcome?  Tell us about them.

Ugh. Yes I have. About 4 years ago I had plantar fasciitis, the beginning of this year I hurt my knee and currently I'm nursing a tight glute. As with all running injuries I did a lot of resting and active recovery like stretching and foam rolling. I hurt my knee by banging it on the corner of our coffee table. It was about a month before a big race I was hoping to PR at and totally crushed my spirits. I ended up scraping the race to heal up before Boston. As much as it sucked, I'm glad I didn't race, as Boston was an amazing experience, all things considered. 

Tell us what crossing the finish line feels like to you.

Crossing the finish line, I am overwhelmed with happiness and feel a huge sense of accomplishment every time.

Do you have a specific distance and PR that you are proud of?  Tell us about it.

I am pretty darn proud of my Marathon PR of 3:13:48. It was at Virginia Beach and as happy as I am with it, I KNOW I could have done even better had the weather been nicer. I don't think I stopped smiling for a week after running that race :)

Have you ever ran a race in costume?  Would you?  

I have not, but totally would!

Do you have running goals?  If so tell us about them.

My main running goal is to qualify for the Olympic Trials one day. I know I have a loooooong way to go, but I know I can do it. My knee and glute injuries have held me back this year, and starting a family is going to "set me back" another year, but of course it will worth it!

What states/races are in your future outlook that you can't wait to go run in?

I can't wait to run NY. I have never been there so, like so many places/race in our past, it would be an awesome vacay! I also really want to run Big Sur. I LOVE California and if it weren't for my parents, I'd move there in a heart beat! There are probably too many to list.

Have you run races in any other countries?

Unfortunately, no. One day though!

What is your favorite kind of running, solo running or running with a friend or group?

On most occasions, running solo is my preference, but once a week with a friend would be awesome!

Do you listen to music while you run?

Nope. It's just me, my thoughts and my footsteps.

Do you cross train?  What types?

Not really, unless I'm injured. I do lift weights and take Pilate's/yoga, but I consider that more complimentary training than cross training.

Do you have any tips of suggestions for someone who is thinking of starting up running?  

Run for the fun of it. Don't worry about pace, distance or comparing yourself to others. Just.Run. Once you get hooked and genuinely love running, you can start to think about adding the other stuff in. The only thing you should worry about in the beginning is looking cute... get yourself a colorful bright outfit :) 

What is your must have running accessory?

I immediately think Garmin. I love recording each run and seeing my progress. Plus, it makes doing speed work alone that much easier. I do believe that you should run GPS-less once a week or so, though. It's important to remember that we run for fun just as much as we do for the competition and this allows me to do so. A visor is my next go to accessory, keeping the sweat out of my eyes and sun off of my face.

Favorite pre and post run food?

Depends on distance. Pre food for runs less than 10 miles, toast with jam or something small, more than 10 miles I opt for oatmeal. For marathons I eat a large bagel and a half. Post run, of any distance, pancakes and a protein shake :) And by pancakes I mean, good ole carby pancakes, not those Greek yogurt/protein/low carb wannabees, haha.

Your a pretty fast runner, tell us what are your favorite types of speedworkouts?

I love tempo workouts. I definitely prefer longer distance speed than the shorter 400's and such. Hence why I hate racing a 5k and love racing a marathon, haha. 800's is about the shortest distance I mind. I'd run a 6 x 1m tempo over a 6 x 800's any day, but I know those shorter faster runs are the base to faster marathons so I do them anyway.

Tell us something unique about you.

I have a playful dog-ter Riley (human kids are in our near future), I am super corny and sarcastic, speaking of corny... I love candy corn, my husband and sister are my best friends, sometimes I put ketchup on my broccoli, I live in workout clothes when I can, I eat oatmeal every day and froyo WAY too much, I like to smile, smiling is my favorite :)

If you are a blogger, what types of things do you blog about?  What can readers expect if they start following your blog?

I blog about a lot and most of it is so random. Obviously my blog, HeatherRunsFast.com, is about running (shocker!), but I also share recipes, advice and just general happenings in my life. Kind of like a journal, oh wait ;)

You Can Follow Heather On Her Blog

www.HeatherRunsFast.com

Heather, thank you so much for letting me spotlight you!  I seriously love that one of your goals is to make the Olympic trials!  You'll make it, and one day I am going to see you on T.V. cheering for you, and telling people, I did a spotlight on that awesome girl:)  Oh and I hope your husband reads this, and takes ya to Athen's in November for the Marathon!  I also hope you run NY and Big Sur one day, both of those are incredible races and on my top 5 favorite list, you'll love them!  Look forward to following you on your blog as you work toward conquering all your goals!!!

Traveling the Road to Hana and the Other Side of Haleakala National Park

Last week for Travel Tuesday, I showed you the Sunsets of Haleakala National Park on top of the old volcano craters.  Which you can see HERE if you didn't catch it.

This week I'd like to show you the other side, which is a bit more of what you could say is the tropical lush side.  However, to get to the other side of the Haleakala National Park you need to take the Beautiful Road To Hana:) - Additionally, I am also offering a small other day excursion to Iao Valley Monument State Park.

When you first start down this road, your first (if like me) will be, I'll wait and do most of these pullout views at the end of the day on my way back.  Wrong, take the time to do most of them on the way.  I found I never had time on the way back because it was getting dark to stop and see any of the ones I thought I'd grab on my way back down the road.

The pictures above are some of Maui's Black Sand Beaches.  They are beautiful, but not really great for the bear feet.  This particular beach was in the Wai'anapanapa State Park.  I highly recommend this being one of your stops, for a little hiking and exploring.  They have Black Sand Beaches, Sea Caves, Hiking Trails, Beautiful Vista's, Blow Holes and more!
Just a note on this particular beach, the undertow is pretty strong.  If you venture out into it be prepared for it!  Additionally, keep the flip flops on for the most part when walking on these beaches, they aren't the soft sand you think:)

This is one of those sea caves.  You can walk down into.  You won't want to actually get too close to the waves as there is a strong undertow, but its fun to go down in.  It's easy to miss if you don't see people coming out of it.  But its right on the side of the black sand beach in Wai'anapanapa State Park.

Like I said the state park is full of hiking, this is one of the beautiful views from one of the trails I went on.

Another view, from walking around on the walking trails.  This one is the view from up near the blow hole.  I just love the Pacific Blue on the Black Volcano Rock with the Lush Greens!

Some of the views from the trails are like this one.  They have such strong currents, they don't recommend swimming.  I believe I also remember seeing a sign that the waters below these rocks are always filled with a few different types of sharks.

One thing I love about Hawaii, is the tree's.  This one was one of my favorites out on the trail.  If I hadn't of just ran a marathon the day prior to this hike, I probably would have climbed this tree for a picture!!!

Another beautiful view from one of the hikes.  This was actually taken up inside Haleakala National Park.  There are several trail heads and options for day hikes.  If you have time you can do a good majority of them, they are all worth it and beautiful!!!

This is Waimoku Falls, its a beautiful 400 foot waterfall at the end of a hike in the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park.

One of my favorite parts of hiking Kipahulu on the Pipiwai trail, was the Bamboo Forests and walking around the trails in them.  Some of you know I do travel alone at times, and this was one of them.  Just so you know it's safe to hike in a National Park alone, because frankly you're never alone there are always plenty of other visitors.  However, this was one of those spots I stopped so I could have a few minutes alone on the trail to listen to the bamboo hit and knock around above and take a few beautiful pictures like the one above.

Now technically for tourists, the Kipahulu is pretty much the end of the road.  Because well the rental car companies make you agree you won't travel off road with their cars.  Well, I am not always one to listen to this.  So yes I will admit I drove much further and about half way down the dirt road.  (I may or may not have been the only non-local on the road.  Fortunately for me, the locals didn't seem to notice or care.  I didn't exactly flaunt I was a tourist, and thanks to my ability to quickly deeply tan, I may have looked the part.  Or possibly I was just delusional, and they just decided to be nice and let me pass.)
I will mention the other side, is beautiful lots of cliffs and on a clear day you can look over to the main island.
However, I am NOT going to recommend you take your rental car.  They are steep windy roads, and little to no turnaround points.  Technically they don't allow tourists unless you sign up for one of the jeep adventures or such, as I swear I saw a group that looked like tourists on a jeep tour when I was on the road.  I did it because well I have this incredible and yet stupid at times need for adventure and I always like to know what is around the next bend:)  Plus, I am from Utah and well 4-wheeling is in my blood, even if I was just in a little sports car:)  No worries, I didn't even put a scratch or pop a tire:)

After your long day of taking the beautiful road to Hana, if your hotel is on the beach on the other side of the Island of Maui, then take a moment to put your feet in the sand and watch one of Maui's beautiful sunsets!  If you are like me, and took way too much time exploring, you'll likely get back well after dark:)  So there is always the next day to sit and enjoy a beautiful sunset too!

Additionally, I'd like to give you a few pictures of Iao Valley, because if you are on Maui, you should go over and take a couple of hours to visit this area.

In Iao Valley, you'll find for the most part easy walking trails to different vista points.  One of the locals told me that back in these mountains, non-available by foot (for the most part) is the beautiful lush green valleys that some of the Jurassic Park Movies were filmed in.  But you'll need a helicopter to see those sites and waterfalls.

Yes, when I went I took hundred's of pictures and I am only showing a few above.  But you'll just have to plan your own trip one day, and take your camera to see everything else yourself!

MY TIPS FOR THIS TRIP

It WILL take all day, so don't plan anything else, and plan to leave early in the morning.

Fill your tank up with gas before you venture onto the scenic road to Hana

Bring lots of drinking water, hiking boots, swimsuit and a beach towel as well as snacks and lunch:)

If you are going to Maui, I recommend a week or more vacation.  There is just so much to do and see.

The roads distance may not seem like much, but you'll not be able to go much more than 10 miles an hour during the drive on this road.  For a lot of reasons, it is small and curvy, but additionally a lot of places are one lane roads, so cars from different directions have to take turns.  But that's okay, there is so much to do and see, you won't mind driving slow so you can take it all in!!!

Adding one more beautiful sunset view to end this post:)

Tips for Race Traveling

Taken during my Alaskan Marathon Trip

     Running 39 full marathons in 32 different states so far.  I've picked up a few tips for race planning and traveling.

     People come to me asking for advice to help them plan their own race adventures.  So I have begun making lists of DO'S, DONT'S & TIPS based on my own experiences, to help the experienced runner and traveler to the novice contemplating on setting out for their first time.

     I am going to break it down into different categories and make a mini weekly blog series on them.  This week to start are tips for booking your race and a few travel ideas to help save money and make your traveling race experience the best it can be.

     DO pick races in places you've wanted to visit.  Research them first!  The truth is, not all races are great choices.  Some lack organization, race support or have other problems.  If you're an experienced runner, you may know what to do if you get into a bad situation in a race with no help or volunteers around.  But if it's your first race stick with one that is not only highly recommended by other runners.  But is also known for excellent organization, volunteers and a great course.  If you're going to spend the money to travel to a race, you might as well go somewhere amazing and have a great experience!

Taken at the start of my Colorado Trail Marathon

     DO pick the right race for you and your distance!  Now days hosting a race is all about the money they can make, so they'll throw in many distances just for the extra entries.  If you want to run a race and have a great experience, pick one that caters most to the particular distance you want to enter in (especially if it is your first!)!  I even go so far as checking to see how many people enter the race each year, is the race set for fast runners only or all runners?  Is it at a good time of year?  Type of terrain?  Check it out and make sure it fits whats best for you and what you plan to train for before you enter.

     TIP if running your first marathon, I suggest picking a race that is a marathon only race!  As a marathon runner, I find I love these races the BEST!  They are all about the 26.2 miles and they know what they are doing, provide the best course support, organization.  Additionally you generally you don't find these races stretched too thin for volunteers at the support stations and water stops!

On my West Virginia Marathon

     RENTAL CAR TIP - When booking your rental car online, don't bother signing up for an expensive upgraded vehicle (unless you need one.)  When at the rental counter when they offer you the upgrades for a price, just turn them down (again, unless you absolutely want them).  9 out of 10 times that I rent a car, I turn all these things down and then end up with an upgraded vehicle anyway because it's all they have left on the lot.
** Another tip, late afternoon or evening rental car pick-ups are the best time to get FREE upgrades, because most people arrive late morning or early afternoon and take all the cheaper vehicles then.

      DO if you plan on doing a lot of traveling and flying.  Pick ONE airline you like best, who has a miles or reward program and stick with them.  This will actually save you money in the long run!  Personally I love Delta, but that is because of the way I use them.  With their skymiles program I can generally get every 5th or 6th ticket free.  By always using the same airline I also earned my way into their FREE upgrades programs and generally get upgraded to first class about every other flight.  Let me tell you nothing is better when you are sore after 26.2 and you get the free upgrade into first class, that extra leg room to stretch out is simply fabulous!
     TIP, if you don't qualify for free upgrades, the emergency exit rows also have a few extra inches of leg room:)  (Of course this is on Delta, I would assume the other airline planes are the same, but I can't say for certain so it might be something to ask!)

On my Hawaii Marathon Trip

     DON'T book airfare on travel sites just because it looks cheapest. Personally I've found booking through travel sites for amazing deals is generally not so amazing!  I am sure sometimes they can work out (guess it just depends on what you like and dislike).  But for me, I don't think saving $100 on a flight ticket is worth having to switch airlines 2-3 times, long layovers, and 14+ hours later finally arriving at my destination (miserable) which should have only taken 2-6 hours in the first place!  Direct flights or 1 layover is my preference!  Besides with a race coming up, you won't want to be exhausted before you get there.
Generally you can get the exact same deals on the actual airline website, and in my experience if you have time to search a little they are occasionally even better!
So when booking a flight, however you do it.  Besides taking cost into consideration, make sure you think through all the flight details and layover times first.

View from Big Sur Marathon

     DO Book flights on Tue, Wed or Thur.  Never book a flight on a weekend, Monday or Holiday or you'll pay more, lots more!  I don't know why, but generally Wednesday's have overall been the best date for me to book!  (If you don't believe me, test it out yourself and you'll see what I mean!)

     DO (if you can) fly in a day or two before the actual race.  Weather or airline problems are unpredictable and unavoidable at times.  So if your flight is cancelled or delayed, you won't be stressing that you're going to miss your race or packet pickup.  If you can't do this, I'd suggest taking the earliest morning flight available, so if delays come up you have a better chance getting there in time!

     DO check travel sites for hotel deals first, then call the hotel directly.  I like to find a great deal on a travel site, then call the hotel directly and ask them if I have to book on the travel site or if they will match the deal. They'll be honest with you, and I think they prefer you booking with them directly so in my experience most of the time they will match a deal or even at times offer one slightly better.  If they can't then go ahead with the travel site deal.

     DON'T just book a hotel because it's cheap!  That is the worst thing you can do!!!  They are likely cheap for a reason (because no one wants to stay there).  Personally I prefer safety and location, cleanliness, free parking, free wi-fi and free breakfasts over anything else.  You can still find a great rate on a nice hotel, it just takes a little searching!

On my Minnesota Marathon Trip

     DO stay at a race hotel.  Generally you can get a list of these from the race website.  By doing this, you'll be surrounded by other runners.  (Usually) you'll have guests around you who won't be loud and keep you up all night before the race.  Sometimes race hotels are within walking distance to starting line, or will have free shuttle services to and from the start.  Also most race hotels will have an earlier breakfast just for runners.  An added bonus is all the fun runners and awesome new people you can meet and chat with and share your running stories.

     DO plan a few things to do and see before or after the race (again, if you can).  Whether you go do a little hiking, visit local attractions or set out on a drive to explore.  You'll enjoy the trip much more if you do something besides just fly in and out for the race only.  I personally like to plan my races near National Parks, Beaches, State Parks and Monuments, Historical Area's and Parks, Mountains and places that look amazing to visit.
     As you can see on my blog in the pictures in this post and also if you scroll down a bit on the page to the pictures below, I love to see AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL!!!  Makes my race in that state even more special and memorable!

     DO (if you can) be flexible with your time on your return flight (if the plane is overbooked) if offered the option to take a later flight for a travel voucher, TAKE IT!  Generally you'll only have to wait a few hours, so  use the time to eat a good meal, walk around and stretch the sore legs, read a good book...  By doing this you'll already have your next  airline ticket paid for or discounted and you can start planning your next race trip right away!

Passing the Alamo on my Texas Marathon

     It doesn't matter if you are taking off for a 5K, 10K, Team Relay, 13.1, 26.2 or Ultra.  Thinking things out ahead of time, making the correct planning choices and bookings will make a HUGE difference to your race experience (I promise!)

     I could give dozens more tips and information on this subject, but it would just be too long to read.  However, some of you may have some race travel tips you feel are pretty important to remember as well (or better:), so please share your own travel tips and suggestions with me and my readers!

Next week's blog I'll give running tips for the race!
Today, I am participating in Jill Conyers Fitness Friday, visit her website www.jillconyers.com to see other fitness articles that may interest you!