It feels pretty darn good to get the long run done before the weekend even starts.
Miles 1-3= 8:45 pace
Miles 4-6= 8:30 pace
Miles 7-9= 8:15 pace
Miles 10-11= 8:00 pace
Miles 12-14= 6:50 pace
My strategy to listen to talks for the first 11 miles of the run worked like a charm. I forgot I was even really running most of the time so this will be a new thing I do during easy paced runs when I am running by myself. For the last three miles I turned on my running jams and got to work. It is kind of fun to try to hit a faster pace on legs that are tired (that is what I keep telling myself).
Some people have asked how I carry fuel and the answer is that on runs that I need fuel I make sure to wear shorts with a pocket in them to stash my Swedish Fish. Swedish Fish have been working extremely well for me lately.
After lunch my mom dropped us off at the airport to go visit friends in Las Vegas.
But first Brooke and Maggie said their goodbyes…that pup is sure going to be bored while Brooke is gone.
We packed a bunch of peaches and carrots for the plane
along with my favorite ‘trail mix’ of white chocolate chips and Rolos.
The frist thing we did when we got together was take a blurry picture.
Followed by eating spinach and artichoke dip.
We each ordered a different dish (I had the pasta pesto) and then we rotated them around the table to try them all.
And then we got really crazy and ate as many donuts as we could within 30 minutes.
What is your run this weekend?!?
Anyone listen to talks/podcasts while they run?
How do you carry your fuel on long runs?
Any good restaurant recommendations in Vegas?
74 comments
Summer
The buffet at The M resort (just off the strip) is pretty good…pretty much the only buffet I crave. I enjoy listening to podcasts while I jog. Totally Married, This American Life, The Kevin & Bean Show, Jillian Michaels, & Real Radio are some of my favorites.
Jen @ milesandblessings
I always do my long run on Friday and a recovery run Sat and take Sunday off….I LOVE it! It works perfect for me. I did my long run yesterday with no headphones ( I have not done that in forever) and I got out by 6 am (earliest in awhile!!!).
7:42 pace which makes me very happy!!!!
I always listen to podcasts and audiobooks…but I am trying a few runs without them because some races I am doing don’t allow headphones if you want to be eligible to win prizes.
I am having fuel issues, which I just wrote about on my blog…maybe I should try seedish fish…when I take fuel though I carry it in a spibelt.
Have a great vacation!!!
Katie
Okay, best trail mix ever right there. And your lululemon top is SO CUTE!!!! Love love. I’ve only been to vegas once so I have no recommendations there. Have fun! :)
xo
Brittany - Travel.run.live.love
Vegas! Have a fun time!! I haven’t been to Vegas since I was 10 years old… but a friend who just went there told me about the best pastry shop ever, Jean-Philip (in the Bellagio Hotel!)! Apparently there’s a HUGE chocolate fountain and every kind of delicious dessert imaginable. Please go there. For me. :)
Liz @ The Girl on Fire Now
I do my long runs on Saturdays – or at least I did until my knees made it so I can’t even run 1.5 miles – that is an awesome idea to turn on a podcast, then fast finish! I normally just sprint the last 400 meters …
Meaghan @ Tale of Two Teachers
Podcasts is such a great idea!!! I’m heading for my easy long run with my best friend this weekend and can’t wait :)
I use a fuel belt for water most longer runs anyways so I just through some jelly beans in the little compartment. I don’t mind the belt on longer runs but I’ve just always used it since I started doing longer distances anyways.
Have a great time in Vegas!
Cori @ olivetorun
You need to check out the FLIPBELTS… they are awesome for carrying fuel. It doesn’t move at all and you barely notice it’s on you. http://www.flipbelt.com/
Adriana @Laced Up With Lipstick
Totally second the flip belt, love it!
chelsea @ the new wifestyle
ohhhh vegas baaaaby (literally) have fun!! never really ran across good restaurants there but i bet you’ll find some. enjoy some fun in the sun with your friends and baby!
Heidi @ Idlehide
I usually tuck my fuel into the top of my pants or hold it. For my marathon my friend lent me her fuel belt and it worked like a charm. The gels/candy are hard to fit in the belt, but pretty easy to get back out.
Have fun in Vegas!!
Sarah @PickyRunner
Seems like a pretty awesome start to vacation if you ask me! I LOVE your running tank! Is it lulu? Every time you talk about donuts I start craving them. I’ve never been to Vegas but I’m going to go someday for the food and nothing else. There are so many cool restaurants there! Max Brenner is a chain but it’s a good one for desserts :)
LosingLindy
Have fun!
Jen H
I was going to run this morning but instead went to a spin class for the first time with a friend. Wow! I was skeptical that I would like it and feel like I got a workout compared to running but….whew! My legs are jello and I’m wondering if I’ll be able to walk tomorrow.
Have fun in Vegas! Never been but the hubz says the Cirque de Soliel shows are a must.
Kim @ Hungry Healthy Girl
I use a Spibelt for long runs. It works great!! Have a blast on your vacation!!
Gabrielle
I also had my long run this morning (started at 5, still dark and chilly). I too have a fuel belt and I refill my bottle at water wells along the way. The splashig sound of the water annoys me more and more the longer the run gets, but I it works best for me to drink a mouthful every 15 minutes – always well hydrated and no potty breaks.
This morning I somehow forgot to fuel in time, and the last 4 km got veeery tough….
A good lesson how to deal with adversity ( even side stitches were included)!
I never listen to music while running.
Those flipbelts look great, I wonder wether they’ve got them in Austria, too.
Have a nice time in Vegas!
Jackie
Have so much fun in Vegas!
Gracie (Complicated Day)
My husband loves to listen to podcasts while he runs, and I used to listen to iTunes U on long runs. I finished the history of France post WWII that way! But generally I’d rather either have no headphones or listen to music.
Victoria
Swedish fish are legit long run nutrition. I had one of my best tris last season eating candy corn on the bike.
Abby
I listen to sermons on my long runs. It’s great to keep my mind off running. Once the sermon is over, I put on some heavy and loud music to help me finish fast and strong. It definitely works!
april
have fun in vegas! scarpetta at the cosmopolitan is REALLY good! i also recommend sushi samba at the palazzo :)
Lindsey
Mesa Grill in Caesar’s Palace is amazing.
Jacqueline
I am a concierge in Vegas, recommendations are my thing! Just let me know what you’re interested in. If you girls want to go to a club let me know I can get you in a guest list. You can email me :) hope you have fun!
Amy @ Run Mom Run
That’s my kind of trail mix sista’! Delicious.
Amanda @ .running with spoons.
Eee! Have an awesome time in Vegas! I was just there last month and already miss the energy of the city. And I actually love listening to podcasts on my longer workouts… I find that they do a better job of distracting me and making the time go by faster.
kristina
Keep posting pictures of your trip and tell Jessie to post too :) I’m jealous of all the good food you guys are eating
Marissa
13.1 tomorrow at race pace.
I usually carry my fuel in my bra. Gross, I know but it’s easily accessible.
I’ve been listening to books on my long runs lately, it’s been awesome and I get really into them and kind of forget about my run.
Anne @ CandyCrazedrun.wordpress.com
When I do run with headphones, Jillian Michaels is my running buddy :)
Lauren
Have a great time in Vegas! To be honest, I don’t really know what Podcasts are all about. What do you use to listen to them? Pandora?
Steph F
Just finished my first ever 20 miler – feeling like this fall marathon really might happen!! I listened to 4 podcasts and then switched over to music…I definitely find that podcasts rather than music keep my pace nice and slow for those early miles.
In the summer I run with a water belt that has a pocket in the back large enough for 3 gel packs, which is the most I’ve ever needed to take. I know a lot of people aren’t wild about hydration belts but I kind of love mine since I don’t like having anything in my hands while I’m running.
Megan (The Lyons' Share)
I love running to podcasts! If you’re looking for new ones, I love Marathon Training Academy, Ben Greenfield Fitness, and so many more … I wrote about them here if you’re interested! http://www.thelyonsshare.org/2013/07/24/podcasts-to-motivate-your-workout/ Have fun in Vegas!
Laura
I love that running tank you’re wearing , where is that from?
I haven’t listened to podcasts or anything besides music on my runs, but maybe I should start, I always hear good things about them.
If I’m going on a long run where I need fuel and water, I’ll bring my fuel belt. If I don’t need water cause I can hit faucets on my route then I also just make sure to wear shorts with a pocket.
No recommendations for Vegas, I haven’t been there in a long time, but have a blast!!
The Hungry Runner Girl
Thank you! It is from lululemon! Have an awesome weekend!
Courtney
I had a crummy 5 mile run this morning. It rained the first mile then the humidity kicked it up to pea soup level for the other four. I’m hoping to get out earlier tomorrow for a 17 mile bike and a 3-4 mile run.
I use Clif Shot Blocks for fuel and just wear my Nike compression shorts with a zipper pocket for runs or bricks long enough to need fuel.
As for podcasts, I just listen to music, but my husband listens to How Did This Get Made (a bad movie review podcast) or books on tape. Right now he has the Chrissie Wellington autobiography and seems to like it.
MartinaNYC
OMG I love Vegas! When I went the last time with my BF, we ate at “Osteria del Circo,” inside the Bellagio Hotel-so so good!!!And the view from there is pretty Amazing as well…
Today I ran 18 miles on the hilliest course I have ever seen-it was just one tough hill after the other… I never hated life so much ;)
Nicole @ Work in Sweats Mama
Have fun in Vegas! Just got back from.week in Maine, so getting up at 5 a.m. tomorrow for 18. My quads are pretty trashed from some tough hikes, so it could be an interesting run!
Danielle
Have fun in Vegas. I have never been, my brother was stationed there for a few years.
We are visiting friends. We ran 3 chatty miles. Doing it again tomorrow :) and then 10 miles on Monday for my half marathon training.
I do not listen to talks.
I carry my fuels in my spi belt. Still working out the details of what fuels work for me.
Rachel
I would love to know what podcasts you listen too! I listen to Hamish & Andy, they’re Australian radio hosts. They are HILARIOUS, sometimes I’m laughing so hard I can’t breathe. Not ideal when running, but boy do the k’s go by quickly.
Ashley @ Eat Run Live Happy
I just got done with a 17 miler!!! The longest I’ve ever ran! I’m lucky… I usually run my long runs with my bf. He carries all the water and the fuel. mwahaha. He loves it though. It slows him down a little!
Look like you’re having run! It’s so great to have so many friends to visit all the time!
Runner Girl Eats
I havent listened to podcasts yet while running but have been thinking about trying it for long, slow runs. I bring gummy snacks on long runs and usually just jam them in a small ziplock bag and but them in my waistband. It’s a really classy, sophisticated process ;) Have fun in Vegas! I LOVE it there.
Debbie @ Deb Runs
Have fun in Vegas! I’ve never been…
I ran 14 this morning and I’ll probably run a nice easy 5 or 6 tomorrow.
Floey
yay my cowrkers are in vegas for the wknd too! stay cool :)
[email protected].
Donut torture!!!
Lindsey B
Have a GREAT time in Vegas…you deserve it!! I had a 1/2 marathon on the schedule today as part of my Chicago Marathon training plan, and I got a PR!! 1:36:18. Now I’m off to eat massive amounts of froyo and candy and treat myself to a cute new Lululemon tank like yours!!
Kari @ Running Ricig
I always listen to podcast when I’m running alone. You should check out “stuff mom never told you,” it’s awesome!
I can’t remember the restaurants we went to in Vegas. I do remember that my favorite part was the wax museum, though.
On long runs, I usually carry a hydration pack, so I just use the pockets to carry fuel.
Erica
I love the pocket in the back of the lulu shorts for fuel.
Vegas with girlfriends, put on your dancing shoes!
Laura @ Live, Run, Sparkle
I tuck fuel, my phone, lip gloss, keys, etc in my sports bra when I run. I treat sports bras like extra pockets. Haha it’s perfect! Have a great time in Vegas!!!! :)
Stacey
I like Canonita restaurant. We always try to go when we are in Vegas. It is by the Venetian, along the canal.
Coco
That trail mix looks divine!
Jamie @ fitfortherun
I’ve never listened to podcasts while I’m running, but I think I need to give it a try! I used to never fuel during runs ( i’m not sure how how i did it) but I’m starting to train myself to drink water and I love Clif shot blocks. Today during my 18 miler I drank 2 16 oz water bottles, I was proud of myself :)
Katherine
Sweedish fish are the best kind of fuel! I love that top on you! Those criss-cross straps are adorable! Oh, and I can’t forget to mention your run! You were going fast girl!
Elizabeth M.
I love seeing these pics with Maggie and Brooke. When you’re back in Utah we will need to meet up, my dogs, Peanut especially, loves kids :) I’ll text you next week :)
Kathy
Maggie and Brooks are adorable.
I love that you have so many good friends but even better that you have a GREAT family for you and Brooke to have a HOME and being able to feel at HOME with them all the time.
Hubby and I have 16, 14 and 10 year olds….its certainly becoming more challenging as the teenage years are upon us….always doubting ourselves as parents and our decisions we make whether right or wrong….
Stand strong. Period. In all aspects of life.
Tiffany Dutson
I haven’t been to Vegas in years, is it still as smokey as it was a few years ago?
mandi
I’m in Vegas with friends this weekend too! Are you staying on the strip? There are so many restaurants I’m not even sure how choose.
Amy @ crazysweatymommy
Never been to Vegas—seems too loud and crowded for me…
Christine
For fuel on long runs I just wear a sweat arm band and tuck my little snack bag into it. Usually have the Gu blocks…LOVE them. They are like fruit rollups condensed into a little block!
Kate
You must go to Earl of Sandwich at Planet Hollywood! I love love love x1000 their sammies!
Robyn
Fab – enjoy your holiday
MILF Runner
I have no answers to your engagement questions BUT…. I love your running top and the vid you posted of Brooke at the airport was too endearing for words. Have fun with your friends!
Britt @ Fit Fit Britt Britt
I did an 8 mile run (my longest EVER) today! I am sure my legs will be “thanking” me for a few days now, lol! I need to invest in a belt or find running shorts/capris with non-obnoxious pockets to carry fuel… I normally will try and stop home or my car to grab water and my refuel items.
And PS, your idea of trail mix is totally up my alley ;)
Kara @ Kara in the Kitchen
I listened to talks on my run before I was speaking in church the next day & it made me want to convert everyone I passed on the road!
I wear my shorts or pants with the secret pocket to stash raisins, Shot Bloks, & Skittles :)
The Parisian buffet is expensive, but SO worth it if you want to get stuffed on GOOD food! Also there’s a Serendipity 3 in Vegas now (original is in NYC) and their hot fudge sundaes and frozen hot chocolate are incredible!
Annie @the Annie hall
Brook kind of reminds me of boo from monsters inc, her dolly face and big blue round eyes are the cutest ever!!!
Annie @the Annie hall
Sorry Brooke** aka the better way to spell it as opposed to Brook. Plz excuse my terrible mistake
Rachel@curious runner girl
My run was 25km (maybe around 15miles?). I use a drink belt for my drinks, otherwise make sure I have pockets in my shorts or tights for my Gu bites or gels :)
I LOVE Vegas! Have the best time there!
Maria @ runningcupcake
Have a fab time :)
The gelato shop inside Bellagio is pretty close to real Italian stuff, so worth a visit?
I get excited by anywhere that has a cheesecake factory (we don’t have them over here)- their guacamole is amazing! Although portions are so huge I am not sure how they expect people to have space left for cheesecake?
If you like films then the Simon Mayo and Mark Kermode film podcast is great (from BBc radio 5)- they are about 90 minutes and have film reviews, interviews and general chat- very amusing.
Alana
Got 11 miles on tap this weekend, but I’m going to do it Monday because my body wasn’t ready for it on Saturday and we were out playing games with friends until late last night, so I was not about to get up at 5 am today. Love the flexibility of a long weekend!
I tried running to a podcast for the first time last week, and unfortunately, I hated it. Speaking of listening to things… are those the bluebuds headphones in the first pic? How do you have them hanging like that? Do you use a clip to keep them attached to your hair or something like that? I just bought them and love them, but I’m curious about the different ways people wear them.
I buy lululemon shorts/skirts because of the pockets. I carry my ID and insurance card in the back zip pocket, and Gu packets in the front pockets. Works pretty well. Not sure what I’ll do when I get up to longer distances and need more than 2 Gu packets.
Julie M
So many peaches! I’m jealous. Brio is delicious. Glad you enjoyed it. Have fun in Vegas.
Meghan
I had a 10 mile long run this weekend. I also did it on Friday since I was going to be out of town. Best decision ever! I carry fuel in a pocket on my shorts or in the pocket on my handheld. I also have a spibelt that I use for races occasionally. Have fun in Vegas!
Jen
If you’re still in Vegas, try the blueberry French toast at mon a mi Gabi in front of the Paris. It’s fantastic!
Stacee
Hi HRG! I started training for my first half marathon and “ran” into your blog this last June. I love it. Thanks for the inspiring posts and the great tips! I just started listening to podcasts (and finishing with music as well). I love “Wait, wait don’t tell me…” and “This American Life”.
As far a talks go – I have been on a bit of a Holland kick. I love Patricia Holland’s talks. I think I tear up at least once during each one I listen to (that could also be due to the fact that my husband is in med school and we have 3 kids ages 6 and under). Here is the one I listened to today (I HIGHLY recommend it, yep, I got all teary-eyed): http://speeches.byu.edu/index.php?act=viewitem&id=378&view=2
Kay
I love Vegas!!! And those doughnuts look delicious!
Chels
Oh I like that black running top you have on! Brio is great too! They have one here in Dallas.
Courtney @ Don't Blink. Just Run.
I think the donut challenge is one of the best you possibly could have had. Yum!
I ran 5 miles without walking for the first time ever on Sunday while visiting family in VT. I don’t bring fuel with me (other than water) because I’m not sure at what point I should be using it or anything like that. It took me 59 minutes to run the five miles and I thought maybe only running for 1 hour doesn’t require fuel?
I’m interested in maybe starting to listen to podcasts of some sort while running only because I eventually will get sick of the songs on my running list. Any recommendations?
Becky Luke
Where is your black criss cross back tank top from??