Running...without Coordination!

I must be getting old...it's happening...and I'm only 34 - whoops - got those numbers turned around...43... 

I saw a product called Shot Bloks on a running blog (sorry I don't remember which blog, so I can't give credit where it's due - see I really am getting old).  

They are flavored energy chews.  During my half-marathon last November, I tried Gu, which rhymes with Eeww, and that describes how it tastes!  So, I figured with the Wharf to Wharf 6 mile run, I'd try something different.  I found several different flavors of Shot Bloks at my local REI.  I tried Black Cherry and Cranberry.  Unfortunately, I left them in the car at the race, and before I remembered, the family had driven off.

Well, Running Buddy was out of town (come back RB!) but I still pushed myself to do my long run - 6 miles.  I was actually looking forward to it - so when Sunday came, I strapped on my water belt and took 3 Shot Bloks with me.  I imagined myself overflowing with energy and completing my 6 miles in record time - without breaking a sweat - almost as if I had wings on my shoes!  

Ahh, there's nothing like a great imagination - so...I ate the first one at mile 2...and that's when I discovered that I couldn't chew and run at the same time!

See, there's this little thing called breathing that I like to do, and when I run, I tend to breathe hard.  Breathing hard with a "gummi" in your mouth, (remember, I'm not a medical expert) seems likely to lead to choking!!

I found that I could run, but not chew or chew but not run!  It was quite a dilemma, since I wanted to do both!  I found myself having to walk and quickly chew and swallow so I could get back to running!  That's when I just felt old...like I really should be able to do this!  

Well, I practiced with the last 2 Shot Bloks on mile 3 and 5.  (Did you read that - I had to practice eating!!)  I actually liked the taste and felt some "energy enhancement" , and although I didn't quite fly home, I was just proud that I'd gotten myself out of bed on a Sunday and ran 6 miles all by myself!  Even if I am old...

Here's a couple questions...what do you eat or drink on your longer runs - say 6 or more miles?  How about for 13 miles?

Thanks for stopping by this old lady's blog today!!