For the love of running.

I woke up with no desire to run. It wasn’t because I was sore or tired but I just wasn’t feeling it.

So, I watched 3 episodes of ‘Chopped’ in bed before getting up.

I realized the reason I wasn’t looking forward to my run was because lately I have forgotten to run because I LOVE to run.

I called my sister and asked her on a running date.  She got a babysitter and we hit the mountains.

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We ran up the canyon and it was amazing.

I didn’t think about times, distance, hills, speed work or anything like that.

We ran at a fun pace and talked about everything in life.

Sure, I LOVE competitions, racing and challenging myself past what I think is possible but I do get a little burnt out on running according to a schedule, pace and expectations.

Today, I ran to feel like a kid again, to connect with another human being and to enjoy the beauty of the Earth that God has given us.

Today, I ran not for fitness, endurance or strength (although running in 4 inches of powder made my buns burn) but for ME, my sanity and MY SPIRIT.  I truly believe that every now and then we need to go back to the basics of why we run to avoid burnout.

There is nothing greater than hearing your own footsteps and counting your blessings.

20 miles and who knows what pace, I was happy.

I feel rejuivinated and more excited about running than ever because I went back to the basics.

Sometimes, all it takes is to remember why YOU truly run (my sanity, my spirituality and the endorphins) and forgot about why you SHOULD run (training, weight maintenance, to win).

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On another note a reader asked what I eat before a run.

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I never play around with this because it works for me and my tummy loves it.  PB, 2 pieces toast and a banana.  I also have gatorade (we just ran out) so now I have been having Tang Sport with Electrolytes.  I used to have to eat at least 30 minutes before a run but today I finished my toast as I was running out the door, literally and my stomach felt fine. The more long runs I do the more my body adjusts and can handle more food and closer to when I start my run.

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I have asked a similar question before but I really want to hear from you again about why you TRULY run or exercise? Take it back to the basics:)

What do you eat before a long run and how long before a run do you eat?  Do you play around with what you eat before a workout?  Do you eat different things for different types of training/weight lifting/spin etc?

What are your plans for the rest of the day?

-Heading up to Salt Lake with my man to try to convince Mac to give me a new power cord for free…… I think we might have to browse around Urban Outfitters too:)

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126 comments

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I wrote a poem on my blog about why I run. :) Do you and your sister run @ the same pace. I love running with Allyssa but she's speedier than me. She always says she'll slow down but after a few miles her competitive nature takes ahold of her. :)

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Hope you enjoyed your day off! Looks like a great run!

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Sounds like a great run.

I run because it makes me feel good about myself – in a million different ways.

I don't normally eat before regular runs, but before a long run I'll eat half a banana and maybe something with a little pb on it.

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Boy do I need some of that!!!!!!

Why do I run? Hmm you know I want to fight aging because frankly I'm getting older. I also have this stupid need for affirmation.. Sigh. I want to do well and well this is a problem.

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That view for your run looks amazing! I run because it reminds me how strong and amazing my body really is and all the things it can do for me.

Usually before a run I'll eat some type of bread, banana, pb concoction. If I'm not feeling that I usually grab a luna bar or ya know, some jelly beans or m&ms for energy :)

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Way to listen to your body/mind! Definitely not an easy thing to do at times. Love your tights! Hope you enjoyed your day off!

Katie :)

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Wow that's hard core running in the snow!

I dont run that far yet, so I mostly just grab a banana before I head out the door in the mornings. I'm sure i'll have to start playing around with food as my distance increases.

I've been having a hard time getting psyched about runs, not sure what it is. I started timing myself when I run, it could be that, but I just need to get excited again, brunch runs start again this weekend, hopefully that'll make me a happy running camper again!

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How fun to run with your sister! I wish I had a running buddy :)

Before a long run or a race, I eat PB and toast. I really don't like it anymore, but it works!

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Hey Hungryrunnergirl! I really love your blog and look forward to reading it everyday. You're so bubbly but not in a fake way, it's great. Also props to you on managing spending tons of time with your family (I'm definitely a family-girl too), your gorgeous husband, exercise, and a full-time job. You rock :D

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I run because it keeps me sane.

Training has been hard this time around. I'm just not feeling marathons anymore & after these two this spring, Im taking a break- just to get back to the basics!

Nice job on your run! :)

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I love it when I allow myself to run just to run. It feels so good…and is such a good reminder of why I love it! Because it feels so good, it makes me feel whole and keeps me sane :)
My insides don't like food less than an hour before a long run, so I have to space it out. But it's usually fruit and grains before

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WOW! Does your sister also run like a beast the way you do?

The main reason I run is…endorphins. LOVE the runners high. And being alone so I can think without 38 high schoolers asking for a pencil.

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I don't like eating a whole lot before a workout,maybe some fruit or a smoothie but afterwards….its all about the carbs! ooh and salt, too! =D

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Love this post!

At the most basic level I run because it makes me feel good, both physically and mentally. I think it is so important to sometimes do exactly what you did today. Say screw the plan, I'm not feelin' it today, and just run. I did that last Thurs night in the wet warm weather and it felt amazing.

Usually before a long run I eat a banana and some dates. I can eat this as I am heading out the door and it gives me tons of energy. If I have a lot of time I add some pb toast.

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I have totally forgotten how/why I run. I am frustrated with it lately and it is discouraging. I need to get back to basics! Thanks for the inspiration to rediscover why/how I love to run!

I usually run on an empty stomach, for shorter distances. Long runs and half marathons I do oatmeal with banana and PB. I always bring GU's with me also!

Today consists of working 8:30AM-5:00PM at the day gig. Tonight, I get to work at the mall 6:00PM-9:15PM. Then home to clean, pack food for tomorrow, watch TV, and hopefully sleep! :)

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your sister looks COLD!! SNOW without winter tights – what????? And no hat???

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I run to battle my mental demons of self doubt and not feeling good enough. Running also helps me get over my food issues. I am burned out training for a marathon and getting over an achilles injury so I want to get back to running just for fun. I eat about 30 mins before. either a small bowl of oatmeal with half a banana or half a banana and half a bagel with pb. Plans for the rest of the day, taking the kiddos to swim lessons.

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How great..I think every runner could use the reminder to run for the love of it!

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oh my gosh that run looks amazing!! can i please come to utah and run the snowy hills with you?! pretty please?

and p.s. i think your blog is making me fat :) everyday i read it, it makes me crave skittles and swedish fish. so i go on my lunch breaks to the store and buy them. and eat them. all.

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That picture with the mountains makes me miss home! It's a great pic!

I love working out and running because it makes me happy. I have never gotten done with a run or workout and said "I wish I hadn't done that"

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Beautiful Janae! I think from what kind of posts I've been reading today in the running blogosphere, this post really touches on what a lot of runners are feeling. You touched on something really BIG here Janae. Thank you. I agree that we need to remember why we fell in love with it in the first place. Running (and exercise) helps keep me balanced and focused on life, it makes me happy and feel energized. Running is a way for me to connect with myself and reflect on my life, pray, and work through things. Oh, and I eat whatever…Before my 12 miler I had an egg and toast. Great post again! The rest of my day….finish painting and priming, play with my kids, make dinner, clean up, enjoy my day off, sit on my butt and watch the BAchelor and eat something like ice cream! :) xo

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There are so many reasons why I run. For heath. For fun. For the challenge. And you're right–some days, it's just best to put the plans and numbers aside and go play. Those runs are amazing. :)
PB toast and bananas are the way to go for pre-run fuel! If I wake up early enough and have enough time in between food and run, I will make oatmeal with bananas, but that's not very often.
Tonight, lots of shopping: food, mattress, various home accessories. Then some TV time. Good times ahead. Enjoy your shopping adventure! :)

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I love that you got to go with your sis!! That is so fun. Why is pb and banana so DANG good?? I think i could eat it in some form for every meal. Great power food! The tights look SO cute on you!!!! xoxoxo megs

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BEAUTIFUL girl! Both the post and you:) I wrote a post exactly about the same experience a few weeks ago!! I run because I LOVE it! End of:)

AAaah twinny excitement!! Our pre-run fuel is EXACTLY the same!!! Snap!! :D

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I run to feel strong and confident and because I love my alone time, just cruising with my music. I love how it feels after I run and I love that post-workout glow!!

I have never run in snow before. Might be something I have to try before I can't run anymore!! And I love toast and honey before a run. I have a love/hate relationship with PB before a run. Sometimes good…sometimes oh so bad. :-)

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That is what I love about running, too! One of my favorite runs was during cross country camp in Lake Tahoe. We went up there for high-altitude training. One time we ran through this valley in the woods. There was a trail…er, there used to be. We were running in a group and we sort of got lost. But we weren't scared (because we were silly teenagers) and we just ran and ran and it was so fun. Over logs, brooks, fences. It was so fun! The way running should be!

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oh my word how could you NOT watch 3 episodes of chopped?! it's so good and so addicting.

and… i love and miss my sister so much! what a blessing to run with her and spend so much time together.

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Good for you for giving yourself a break in the morning and relaxing! The picture of your sister running is beauitful!!
I run because it is so freeing, mentally and spiritually and it just makes me feel so good in every aspect.
I eat a very little bit of otmeal with maple syrup before a long run… its easy on my tummy.

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that picture of your sissy running doesn't even look real…absolutely beautiful! We eat the same things before we run :) And I work out so I look good, feel good, and still have a an outlet for competition.

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I miss running with my sister so much!!!

I used to have to wait 2 hours or so after eating before I could go for a run, but I think my stomach has adapted, and I can now eat as close as 30 minutes prior to running–if it is light.

I can do most "breakfast" foods: cereal and milk, yogurt, toast, peanut butter, or oatmeal.

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Your sister can run 20 miles also?! You girls are super women! :D Thats really great that you can run together and that you were able to enjoy the snow and the canyon, and running. :)

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I enjoy running and lifting weights and I would do it even if I didn't HAVE to. But I probably would do it with less frequency and more enjoyment, like you did today with your sister.

It can be hard to fight off that annoying voice in the back of my mind that says "if you don't push yourself hard every day you're not going to look good and be fit" – which is a lie. I just need to eat healthfully and enjoy being active WITHOUT being obsessive about it or too hard on myself. But even though I know that, it can still be hard to keep that balance between working out for enjoyment and working out for results.

Before a workout I can eat just about anything, like you. My stomach's used to me eating and jetting. But I do often opt for oatmeal with pb and banana, or pb banana and honey toast.

Tonight I'm making a homemade version of Chipotle burrito bowls and John and I are going to have some wine and watch a movie. I can't wait.

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I run to feel good. To have alone time. I know selfish. I run to stay healthy so I can be around for my kids for a Long time. I run because I do like it.

I always eat the same thing. My stomach is very fragile. I have to eat an hour min before any run or else….

Rest of the day: boys are home so puzzles and dominos

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Did your sister run 20 miles too? That's awesome. Sometimes it's nice to have runs that make you remember why you love the sport. I love to run because I always have. It slows my mind down and relieves stress.

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Oh, and I heart you.

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Hi Janae!! So… this is kind of weird, but I found your blog through Kristy's (sweet treats & more)! I started reading your blog and realized that I met you at the TOU Marathon!! What a small world! I am not sure if you remember me, but I talked to you after we finished and I think maybe gave you my number so we could go run sometime haha. So crazy that I found you here in the blog world. It sounds like your training and everything is going great! If you ever want to run still, I would love too. I am mainly doing mileage with a few tempos with one of my old teammates, so nothing too speedy… just kind of running for fun right now :)

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I am super impressed with your sister for running 20 miles with you! And you, of course. I love the snow, and I never run with a hat or full length tights either, even though I'm in Northern NY

No PB for me, I'm allergic and that makes it really hard to find commercial energy bars and the such. I like a bowl of cereal before a run. About an hour before

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Your tights. Super cute. I want them. :)

Running for me is such a stress reliever. I clears my head and allows me to have a more peaceful mindset. I haven't found anything else that does that for me in the way that running does. :)

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20 miles?! Wow, you always impress me. But if I had those mountains, I bet I could run like that. GORGEOUS!

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20 miles?! Wow, you always impress me. But if I had those mountains, I bet I could run like that. GORGEOUS!

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20 miles, wow!!! Glad you got back to the basics and remembered why you love to run!!

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I love running to just run! It's so important, but can fall to the wayside with training. I like rice or corn cakes with almond butter and banana slices. Works best with my stomach to avoid gluten before I run. I just found some really cute dresses on sale at Urban!! xoxo

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I run because I feel like myself when I'm running. Probably because I've been running over half my life!

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I didn't realize your sister was a distance runner also. How very cool is that?!

I don't eat any more than a Clif bar before a run. That's plenty to get me through 10 miles or so. If I'm going any further (which I haven't since December but will be again in a couple of weeks), I'll carry some GU gel or Chomps or Shot Blocks with me.

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Wow! What a beautiful place to run. That terrain/incline would kill me! I went for my first REAL trail run today and WOW! It was even harder than I anticipated. It was SOOO steep and there were so many rocks to navigate around. My calves were killing me and I was beating myself up because I was struggling. Then I looked around and realized how beautiful this place was. It was gorgeous! I tried so hard not to think about pace (because that went out the window with the first few strides) and I tried not to think about how hard my body was working, I just tried to enjoy. It was harder to do this than I like to admit. :(

Wow! Your sister runs too!? How cool! I wish my sisters ran!

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I eat a banana and a clif bar about a half hour before running. Sometimes I do a banana and pb toast =)
I run for me — to keep my sanity, for the endorphins, and some one on one time with God.
BTW: You inspired me to try chocolate milk with some added protein powder. I did this after my workout this afternoon and I feel great! thanks!

Oh AND you have been such an inspiration to me to get my butt back out on the road running. You have inspired my husband to invest in a treadmill for himself =)
Thanks for keeping it real girlfriend =)

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I love chopped! Great show! Did your sister run all 20 with you? Thats impressive! Great job on your run : ) And yes sometimes we all forget to love running and a nice relaxing fun run is all you need to get reinvigorated!

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I have a crazy thing called exercise induced anaphlaxis. This means that if I eat too close to when I run, I will have an allergic reaction, and potentially go to the hospital. It makes training runs hard sometimes. I seem to have good luck with oatmeal at least an hour before I run, but anything else and I need to wait like three hours. Anyway, I love your blog, and I am starting one too! (BTW I am also a teacher in Utah!)

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Love those kinds of runs! The kind that leave you with a smile on your face all just because you were running :)

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thank you for a really inspiring post!! i think you're totally right–it's important to get back to the basics every once in a while. strip it back down to what it started as–a passion. that passion is what gives you the drive to be better. good job by you!!

i don't run far enough (yet) to worry much about eating before my runs, but PB tends to give me heartburn (i know, i'm so old). but i do look forward to my after run protien shakes.

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Oooh, pretty mountains! I'm sort of in awe of your 20 miles for fun. I'm no where near that point. Truthfully, I run for the runner's high I get afterwards. It makes me feel so much better all day.

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Amen! Well said Janae!

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That looks like an awesome run. The difference between us – you run 20 miles for fun and I run 4. You call up your sister for a running date, and I put my dog on a leash.

Similarities:
I've also been feeling restricted lately because of my training schedule. I was in dire need of a zen run, a feel good run, a run just to run. Sure it adds to my weekly miles that I need to get in, but I didn't keep track of my time. Knightley kept my pace (if he was running, I was going too fast – if he was tugging on me, I was going too slow) and we just enjoyed the beautiful (cold) sunny day. I've been feeling so much better since then, happy to have remembered why I love running.

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Awesome post – it's so easy to forget why running is so amazing, and it's SO important to reconnect with the pure endorphin rush that come with running! That's what keeps us going. What a perfect way to do that — run up a mountain with your sister! Ah, so cool.
I tend to stick with toast w/ PB or cereal with nuts and almond milk before a run. I can usually tolerate food pretty much until the minute I step out the door with a long run :)

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What beautiful scenery to run to! We all need those days when we workout just for the fun of it and not to count calories or make a certain speed.

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Don't you just love running in the snow?! That is one of the reasons why I love Alaska :) It is really peaceful and just so pretty to look at!

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I love running outside. I live a mile from the beach, 2.5mi to a boardwalk along the ocean. There are some mornings, when I'm running along the boardwalk, breathing in ocean air and watching the sunrise over the city…I feel so free and at peace, at the same time. Simply put, running is good for the soul.

I only eat before a run that is 2 hrs or more. It's always the same thing – whole wheat carb thing (usually a slice of toast, but today I was out of bread, so I used whole wheat tortilla) topped with crunchy pb and half a banana. Best running breakfast. I've eaten it as I was walking out the door and my stomach was fine. My stomach is pretty solid though.

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How much fun to run with your sister, sounds like a great time! I wish I could run with my sis but she is SO fast lol! Thanks for addressing that question, I think that's great pre-run fuel! What's your fave gatorade flavor?

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running in 4 in powder is pretty hard core! :)

and i eat the same exact thing before a long run…exactly!!! pb on toast + banana and some sports drink… crazy, crazy.

i run for those days when my run feels effortless, doesn't happen everyday, but when it does it's one of the the best feelings in the world!

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I just found your blog and love it!! I love your attitude and your passion for running!! Im a big runner to but not even close to your pace.. could you give me some pointers on how to speed up my pace.. I try but slow down the longer i run. and I envy your ability to run long distances on the treadmill.. I can't even fathom, I get bored past 5.. I did 13 once.. but I was watching the finale of the bachelor and couldn't leave the gym! ha! I blog over at bodyofmother.com.
oh.. and I eat a banana with almond butter before every long run. then I devour the kitchen after .. ;)

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I just found your blog and love it!! I love your attitude and your passion for running!! Im a big runner to but not even close to your pace.. could you give me some pointers on how to speed up my pace.. I try but slow down the longer i run. and I envy your ability to run long distances on the treadmill.. I can't even fathom, I get bored past 5.. I did 13 once.. but I was watching the finale of the bachelor and couldn't leave the gym! ha! I blog over at bodyofmother.com.
oh.. and I eat a banana with almond butter before every long run. then I devour the kitchen after .. ;)

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Such a beautiful picture, I'd love to run there! I loved this post, you go girl for running in the snow for you. My sister does crew, but they run a lot, and she has gotten fast. I can't wait to run with her cause she claims to hate running!
I run for me, and the incredible feeling of passion, love for myself and my surroundings I get when I run. I had a quote from Kara Goucher that I posted about the other day that talked about running for joy.
PS: Love your tights!

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I run because it makes me feel great and more confident. For long runs I eat my oatmeal at least 2 hours a head of time. For weekday runs (under 5 miles) I just try not to eat within an hour of my run.

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Love this post! When trying to cram a training run into a ridiculously busy day, it is easy lose excitement for running. But fun runs like that always remind me why I do it :)

Best pre race snack: Bread with sunflower seed butter, greek yogurt, sliced banana, agave and chia seeds on top! Fancy I know..but we are worth it!

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I've noticed that the harder I train, the easier it is to fuel right up to the minute I walk out the door. I wonder why that is?

My plans for tonight are tv and taxes…exciting, huh?

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I run to organize all my thoughts, to get my endorphins flowing, to beat the boys, To have people looking at me like I'm nuts when I'm sweating like a man on the treadmill.. I could go on!

by the way your run looks beautiful!! 20 miles in the snow is impressive!

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I definitely exercise more for how it makes my body feel rather than how it makes my body look. I just love how it makes me feel! I definitely practice "intuitive exercising" though. I listen to my body–some days I need a rest/easy peasy workout. Other days, my body is raring to go!

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I run/exercise for two main reasons: to help me lose weight, and even more important, to help me stay happy. I can cope with life better when I run. I can handle life's ups and downs with ease. I am not sad. I am not depressed. It is my mood stabilizer. That's reason enough! Plus it makes me proud of myself to accomplish distances I never thought I could do.

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Aweee girl I am so glad!! All it takes is a fun run with someone you love, some girl talk, and skippiding in the snow! I run because it makes me feel ALIVE…like supawoman! I would not trade a runner's high for the world. And I run for my Dad. When I find myself running for training and not for enjoyment, or getting down on myself, I think of him and it gives my legs flying powers.

Slash I ALWAYS have tons of carby carbs before a run and some fat in the form of nuts/what have you. I've been making a Brendan Brazier smoothie lately that has 1 banana, 2 dates, 1 tbsp. flax seed meal, and 1/2 tbsp. coconut oil. SO YUMMY and it makes me super speedy!

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Have I told you lately that I am just amazed by you?! You ran 20 miles like it was nothing! I think you are just amazing! :)
And I run because it keeps me sane! No, I'm just kidding- but really, it does help me with my stress & just being outside on a pretty day can cheer up any bad mood, ya know?
And, that's what I eat before a run too! Any race- that is my good to food- typically an English muffin with pb & a banana. Perfect pre-race/ long run food.
I hope you enjoyed your day off!! Short week for you– woohooo!! :)
Thank you for your sweet comment on my blog, it meant to much. :)

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It amazes me how many people eat peanut butter before a run. Peanut butter is probably the absolute last thing my stomach wants swirling around mid-run. And it will definitely reminds me if I forget. I deal better with oatmeal.

Why do I run? Good question. I'll have to get back to you on that.

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That sounds like a fun run! Does your sister run alot too?

I have asked a similar question before but I really want to hear from you again about why you TRULY run or exercise? Take it back to the basics:)

I workout because it makes me FEEL ALIVE. Seriously, there is nothing like starting your day soaked with sweat or having a bad day at work and rushing to the gym and feeling 1,000,000 times better and you forget all about your bad day because you POUNDED your frustrations into the treadmill. Ahhhh best feeling ever.

What do you eat before a long run and how long before a run do you eat? Do you play around with what you eat before a workout? Do you eat different things for different types of training/weight lifting/spin etc?
Usually a banana or a cliff bar or something…I like the kid's cliff bars…"Z-bars" or whatever they are called…pretty good! If I go for a long run (longer than 1.5 hours) i use Gu gels.

What are your plans for the rest of the day?

Just got home from the gym…I usually go in the morning but was too tired today. Now eating a boatload of broccoli and sweet potatos and watching House! How about you?! :]

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What a great run! Its so important to leave the watch at home sometimes and just enjoy running for the fun of it!

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i think i exersize because its like recess for grown ups :) :)

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That was a beautiful picture and a beautiful post! Sometimes I think we forget why we do the things we love because we get so caught up in day to day activities. I'm so glad you got to catch up with your sister! Did she run the entire time with you? Yowza! Two runnin' sisters!

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Wow your run looks beautiful! I wish I had mountains to run up :)

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Your run looks beautiful and how fun to run with your sister! I love running because I feel free. I love how my mind wanders or becomes completely focused while I run. I love the conversations that I have with others or by myself while I run!! On Saturday I got to run on my beloved trail that I have not ran on in three months because of the weather and it felt WONDERFUL. My favorite is running outside in the early morning and feeling the Spirit so close around me. Today is day 1 of my training for my half marathon in April! Your blog is such a wonderful resource!

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I run because it helps me really be present in the given moment. I think sooo much when I'm not running, so running is my form of meditation I guess. I have some of my most important introspections and ideas during a run when all I can think about is what's important.

Plus running and working out give me so much more confidence than I would have otherwise. I used to care a lot about my appearance, and as I was telling a friend recently, being able to do certain things (like meeting goal paces and miles) really makes caring about physical appearance less relevant.

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I definitely exercise to help me lose weight, but I also love the way it makes me feel because I never thought I'd be able to and when I do, I'm sorta amazed at myself.

Long runs first thing in the AM, I have nothing in the ole gut. But if it's later, I may have cereal or whatever. I tend to do better with nothing in my belly as it can react, um, poorly otherwise.

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Thank you for this post, it is just what I needed to hear :) I run because I love it and its my "me" time- but like you said in training I start running for just that and not the love.
Right now I am eating a banana and some juice before runs but am working up to the banana plus pb & toast – I just need to get my body used to more food before running. I like to est at least an hour before running.

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The’ers nothing like the relief of finding what you’re looking for.

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This was a great post!! And what beautiful scenery!

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I felt just like this this weekend!

I've posted on several different posts on my blog about why I run and what I get out of it. So, so much.

Plain and simple, it makes me better.

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Running makes me a happier person – pretty simple!

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Thanks for the answer!! (I'm not sure if I'm the one you are responding to but I definitely asked about what you eat before you run).

Right now I run to meet my goal of running a half and feel accomplished. Some days I do it because I need to get energy out. Some days I do it because I WANT to.

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I run and exercise because…
-it helps me manage my blood sugar
-it gives me confidence I have never had before
-I have way too much energy and if I don't work it out somehow, I don't sleep very well
-it helps me keep my hot bod.. haha just kidding! But it does help with my body image

Before every long run, I eat either half a bagel or a full bagel with some PB&J, a banana, and a MOJO bar, then I wait 2-3 hours before running. I never play around with this, since I know a. I will always be hungry-mungry before a long run and b. there is always a chance I will fall asleep while waiting for my food to settle, so I like to eat a little more incase I end up not running for 3 or more hours after breakfast. I don't eat before track workouts.

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Oh my gosh!! Your picture makes me want to move to Utah NOW. I'll be on the first plane tomorrow, thanks! Beautiful!

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amen, it feels good to just forget everything and ride the waves sometimes, just going with the flow. i run because it makes me feel free :) and i like to imagine that im running away from all my hwk and stress, just leavin it all behind

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Who do you want the bachelor to pick??????

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i basically have a cast iron stomach so i shove whatever in there will fit and head out the door. so glad you had a sweet 20 miles, girlie, sounds like it was head clearing and awesome! xox.

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Peanut butter, toast, and a banana is the best pre run snack/meal for me. I don't typically eat before I run, but if I do thats what it is.
It really is great to just run for the fun of it and somedays you need it. I'm glad you got that today!

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Your picture makes me wish I liked running in the snow and cold. I don't even like the snow and cold, let alone running in it! Do you ever find it hard to breathe suc cold air? -KT80 http://www.traininglikeagirl.blogspot.com

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Crops in the snow!?!?!!? You and your sister are crazy!

But good for you guys! I can't imagine leaving my house when it drops below 60!

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Aloha Janae!

I made it here!

I drove my sister and her 3 friends this morning to the Great Aloha Race in Honolulu. They were so happy that I am here (instead of eating CR & GS with you) because it meant they could sleep in until 4am instead of 3am since I was dropping them off at the starting line. I drove over to Aloha Stadium and hung out till they finished their race and then we came back to the North Shore and went to the beach which was AWESOME!

The Sunset Beach Pipeline surf competition is going on, and there are lots of amazing waves right now. I saw so many beautiful fish while snorkeling, and had fun gorging on Kua Aina Pineapple and Grilled Onion Cheese Burgers (I have a photo of that which I took JUST FOR YOU! will blog it soon.) and then since there were a gajillion people in line for shave ice at every single shop (not just Matsumoto's) we opted for ice cream at Paradise Ice Cream Shop. Now I've had a nice shower, and we will have FHE with a bunch of friends here, I have to pack, and go to the airport at 5am. Sigh. It's been heaven.

So I watched lots of runners today, but my fitness activity was snorkeling and swimming in the ocean. It was perfect! ♥

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I am sure you already know it, but what a true TRUE blessing to have a SISTER who is into what you're into!!! i would LOVE it if one of my siblings was a runner and could throw down a 20 with me (ok, I guess I should probably tackle 13 before i try 20, but ya know what I mean) =)
I usually eat nothing as my runs are in the morning RIGHT after I wake up.
The last few outdoors runs have been in the evening and I actually LOVE running at that time, but I'm not going far enough (yet) to warrant thinking about pre-run food, but your go-to's look yummy!

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Tell me your sister did not just pull 20 miles out of thin air and she runs distances like that all the time or I might have to go cry a little, haha…

I had the same kind of run as you today… but more because I've been battling a head cold. I knew the fresh air would be good for me but I also knew I couldn't push myself too hard. Sometimes leaving the Garmin at home makes for the best runs!!

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I love your outfits-you are always dressed so cute!! Where do you shop?

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hear ye hear ye! I'm a runner-enjoyer. I've participated in a few marathons here and there, but I never really "trained" — I just ran when and how I wanted to.

I only recently started trying to pick up the pace and do training of sorts after reading blogs like yours and Lizzy's at "Healthy Bites…". You guys kind of inspired me to see what I could do.

And hold the phone, are you saying your sister can just casually whip out a 20 miler? wha-wha-what!?

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I love that you ran just for the fun of it – and still ended up doing 20 miles! I run for the feeling of accomplishment and for stress release.

I also like to eat toast and nut butter and sometimes banana before a run. It seems to work well for a lot of runners and so far it's been working well for me.

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I eat PB on toast before a run too!!! Or a good old fashioned banana. I use to drink Vitamin Water before a run and I need to start that again!

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Oh my gosh, so many comments! I will eat pb on toast before I run, too. I usually have to wait at least an hour. When I was training for my marathon, I couldn't eat anything before my long runs, or I had big issues. It was frustrating.

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I eat PB on toast too. I don't like bananas. :( I usually eat anywhere from 30 min to an hour before running.
I LOVE that picture of you running in the snow. You should frame that.

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I think I was the 100th comment. I feel special.

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Amazing! how can you not love running when you have that beautiful scenery available to you!! What's also amazing is that your sister is able to just head on over and run TWENTY miles with you!!!

Now I run for stress relief and because I enjoy pushing myself (it's still amazing to me that I can run 9, 10, 13 miles…when a year and a half ago it was a feat to run 3). I like my runs where I end up out in the middle of nowhere (by NJ standards) in beautiful parks.

For my weekend runs, I usually have oatmeal w/pb + a banana a little before hand. For week days, my runs are in the afternoon, so I just make sure I have a good filling lunch at 12-1, and small snack mid-afternoon before my 5/6pm run. I've got a pretty stable stomach.

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Is your sister really running in the snow, in capris? OMG! And she just casually ran 20 miles with you? That is amazing! Her little calfs look cold though!

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Love it!! I love running because it helps me clear my mind and who knows what I think about when I'm out there. :)

I always eat peanut butter toast and a banana before any sort of long run, otherwise I can just wing it. Don't mess with what works!!

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i run because i love the high i get when im just running outside and enjoying the air on my face and seeing new sights.. ESP with my music.. i just feel invincible.

i usually run after bfast in the mornings which is always sun warrior oats with pb and jam or berries… but if i do an afternoon one then usually a banana with pb!

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Wow what an amazing picture with all that snow. I started running to raise money for charity, but then found I love it, so now I run for the enjoyment and the acomplishment. I never used to be able to eat porridge before a run (even though I ate it on other days) but I have trained myself to be able to eat it before a run, as I find it gives me the best energy.

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I think I need to start paying more attention to what I eat pre-gym/run. I usually don't think about it bc I go after work, but a really good run was ruined today by an awful case of indigestion. And I most definitely run for exercise. I'm not that in love with it lol.

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This is so true! I wrote about the joy of running on Saturday! I run because it makes me feel amazing – it gives me energy, makes me happy, relieves stress, helps me think clearer, makes me feel strong and healthy, and its fun! When I travel to a new place my favorite way to explore is by running around. I love races and they motivate me to run more and push myself, but sometimes the training starts to feel more like an obligation than a fun hobby. When I notice that I take a step back and try to bring it back to why I love it in the first place – run with a friend, run a new route, buy some fun new running clothes. Once I do that I love it again!

Before a long run or hard workout I usually have whole wheat toast with peanut butter and banana, or cheerios with banana. I also love the Peanut Butter flavor of Power Bars – so I stash some of those in my gym bag to have before races or long runs when I'm not at home.

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I love those runs where you can get out there and just go…no strings attached. That photo is gorgeous and those tights are adorable! Glad you enjoyed your run!

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That photo of you running in the snow looks like it came out of Runner's World Rave Run article. Love it!

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I run for the ME time. I love to get out there and let my mind go. I am able to clear my mind and release stress. I am a much happier person because of running.
I have a question for you. Do you or have you ever had a problem with eating after long runs? After my long runs my stomach hurts and I'm not able to eat for a few hours. I do fine with gels during my runs so I'm wondering why I might be having this issue after the run.
Good luck with your race this weekend!! I can't wait to hear about it.

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Okay, can I just say that this post is exactly what I needed to read today?
I'm actually not a big runner…I like to run but mostly I run to build up my endurance. I'm actually a figure skater. Lately I've had such a hard time getting my butt to practice and I think it's because I've forgotten how much I love to skate!
I actually find that what I eat after I skate is far more important than what I eat before I skate (don't hold me to that, I just find that this is what works best for me.) Before I skate I'll usually eat a banana or 2 hard-boiled eggs or some oatmeal…I try to keep it light unless I have at least an hour before I get on the ice. Immediately after a strenuous workout I'll make a fruit smoothie and a piece of toast on Ezekiel bread with almond or peanut butter and a sliced up banana on top.
I totally recommend Ezekiel bread to anyone who hasn't heard of it…it's bread made without flour. The whole idea was actually biblically inspired (Ez. 4:9) It is made from wheat, barley, beans, lentils, millet and spelt. When these things are all combined into bread, a complete protein is formed just like the protein in eggs and milk. It has a sort of nutty flavor but it tastes a lot like regular bread…it's really good! If you buy some, keep it in the freezer. I toast individual slices after practice all the time, it's an awesome recovery food!

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What a beautiful picture! It's no wonder why it was so enjoyable!!

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Post #5, I am getting there

OK I am seriously convinced that something is in the water, with your comment of that you didnt want to run, no one had great weeks last week

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SUCH a great way to run! I'm glad you had such a fun run date with your sis!!

I run because it makes me feel good. It makes me feel happier and it makes me feel like a rockstar. It gives me time to think and sort things out for myself.

I always have peanut butter on an english muffin and a banana before long runs!

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OMG I want to run there! So beautiful! Can I come live with you?? Sounds like the perfect run ever! Oh and I love Urban Outfitters! I love that they have jeans with sparkly stuff on the back pockets!

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The pic of your sis is really good! Love it. Did she do the 20 miles? Wondering if you carry water with you on your long winter runs.

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What a great run! And so nice that your sister was there with you. It looks like a beautiful place to run!

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OH MY GOSH! It is so beautiful – I want to come run where you are. I am going to ask Michael if we can come on vacation to visit you! ;) Don't worry, he already knows I am obsessed with your blog and advice and how you are an inspiration to me! :) I recently wrote a post about running and why I love it. Running is not always easy, and I don’t think I would want it to be. It is during the hard runs – that I have been reminded why I really do love running. It gives me the confidence to do what I never thought I could do (12 miles as a training run?!) and it has given me wonderful friends to share those things with. I have more fun running with my team then I ever do by myself – even on the bad days. Thanks for this post – it is a great reminder for all of us!

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Thanks for this post! I have been thinking about it for a few days, and it has really helped me to come out of the funk I was in! THANK YOU!

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My summer job is 3rd shift (10pm to 6am) and I always want to run after but feel so lethargic. I started running recently after a four year hiatus. I had just worked up to about 25 miles a week when I started this shift and now I’ve dropped to like..8? miles a week. I’ve been freaking out about losing all the progress I’ve made but my body feels so weird, trying to go to bed at 7 when I was used to waking up at 7. After reading this I feel ready to run and not worry about lost progress. “Today, I ran to feel like a kid again, to connect with another human being and to enjoy the beauty of the Earth that God has given us.” This statement has just made me decide to lace up my shoes. Thank you!

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