STTS Good First 50K?

[love2run]

I've been an obsessed and avid runner for almost a full year ;D! I have never ran in an organized even but I do get in a good 15 to 20 miles a week . After having my 3rd baby, I dropped 50 lbs in the 7 months since I started running .I am soooo hooked to the runners high and I want to get off of my treadmill and try out the trails. When it comes to organized runs, I read that you should start big. If you start small and try a marathon first you will never want to run a 50K. Is this true??? I decided I really want to complete my first 50K before my next bday and it looks to me that STTS is the easiest in town!!??! I have a few questions for anyone who may be more experienced:

1. What are the best kind of shoes to wear on a trail run, are my sketchers ok or should I go shopping?
2. Do I need to bring a small meal or 2 if I plan to take the entire time limit?
3. Is Gatorade a better choice than water in my camel back
4. Do you recommend a hat over a visor?

Thank you for any advice!!!

[dkeen1]

www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/forum-view.asp?fid=136#s

this is great resource for all of your questions listed....other than this specific race. hopefully this helps you a little.

=)

[Trail Diva]

Dear love2run.

Me too!

Now introductions are out of the way, some thoughts on your post:

"I read that you should start big."

But, you did darling, then you lost 50 lbs. ;D Congratulations, but don't confuse weight loss with running mileage! The laws of Physics have created a perfectly symetrical inverse relationship between the two: Miles start small and get bigger, while hips, thighs and buttocks (and alas, breasts) start big and get smaller.

"After having my 3rd baby..."

Keep your chin up. At least you lost the 50 lbs!!!

"I have a few questions for anyone who may be more experienced..."

You're casting a wide net.

"What are the best kind of shoes to wear on a trail run, are my sketchers ok or should I go shopping?"

Sketchers are both casual and stylish. Depending on the model you choose, you can either "pick up the pace" or "watch the miles float away". However, you can never, repeat never, pass on an opportunity to shop. And you can cross train by running between stores and power walking the aisles. I once completed a 32 mile training run using this method at the Gilroy outlets. Be sure to bring your husband along to carry your purchases. Boxes and bags will interfere with your stride. Recharge your gps before starting this run, otherwise you'll have no idea when you are done.

"Do I need to bring a small meal or 2 if I plan to take the entire time limit?"

I'm guessing your husband is pushing the triplex stroller behind you. If so, have him wear a large pack for all your provisions (and the purchases you acquired while training). You can take whatever you want then! I suggest Chinese.

"Is Gatorade a better choice than water in my camel back."

Surely you jest! Let your husband drink whatever he wants. Don't worry about him. But you remember to hydrate, girlfriend!

"Do you recommend a hat over a visor?"

I use a dual system: One of my entourage carries an umbrella and another a fan. But, since you are not yet a diva, you should just concentrate on being stylish.

[Trailrunner99999]

Was this an April Fool's Joke or is this thread serious?

[Forrest]

Foolish is as foolish does. ;D