Training Log - Monday, June 21, 2010

Finally I did manage to get my first "recovery" run in since completing my first 100K race and returning to the US. I could've picked a better day as temperatures were already reaching the high 80s and significant humidity levels at 6am. I was joined by Richard and James and we opted for a longer run rather than speed work, it was just too hot and humid already. We ended up with close to 10 miles after running from Research Park to Rainbow Mountain, running the loop to the top of Rainbow Mountain and back down and returning to Research Park. While James seems almost comfortable in this heat, Richard and I realized that one bottle of fluids was no longer sufficient for these training runs. With temperatures quickly approaching the 100s (did I mention it is not even officially summer yet?) We needed to start carrying either a bladder pack or two bottles. Both have their pros and cons. The bladder pack is a bit of an effort to fill, while my hands start to prune up quickly holding two water bottles in this humidity. I know that sounds kind of arbitrary, but comfort is everything, especially when you already have to deal with unbearable heat and humidity. I'll probably have to start experimenting with different shoe, sock and foot lubricant combinations to avoid swamp feet and the resulting blisters in these conditions. I don't want another blister issue like the one I experienced at the Scenic City Trail Marathon last month after just 10 or so miles. After all, I managed absolutely no blisters in last week's 100K. I guess this will be great training for the ultras that I have coming up over the next two to three months. It is good to be back in the South;-)