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?
