Gazelle Girl Half Marathon & 5k 2015: Training, Diet, and Preview Log

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gazelle girl

Event: Gazelle Girl Half Marathon & 5k

Date: Sunday, April 19, 2015

Location: Downtown Grand Rapids

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On April 19, 2015, I will be participating in the Gazelle Girl ½ Marathon. I had the privilege to run the 5k for both the 2013 inaugural race and last year; but this will be my first year running the ½ marathon. I am excited, nervous, anxious, and motivated!

(Click here for my recap of the 2014 race)

What is the history of the Gazelle Girl Half Marathon & 5k?
The event began in 2013 in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Title IX Gender Equity Act. The Gazelle Girl Half Marathon connects women through movement, achievement, celebration, friendship and fun. It was founded by Gazelle Sports and is generously sponsored by a number of local businesses and organizations with the mission in mind to:ggcharm

  • Actively encourage new runners to participate in the sport
  • Build relationships
  • Improve womens’ health and family health
  • Enhance partnerships within the community
  • Raise funds for community partners that further impact and support women

The race was centered around Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids for its first two years, but will be transitioning to the larger Calder Plaza area for the 2015 race reason.

 

What drives me and how do I prepare?

So why am I running this race? First, it is an ALL GIRLS RACE which emphasizes women empowerment! Runners are the most supportive and encouraging people you will ever meet, and being a part of the only all women race in my hometown is an honor. There is no better feeling than other women pushing you to do your best and lifting your spirits.

I have been training for this race since January 5th. I made a resolution to train through the winter season while having this race in the back of my mind as a motivator. Within the past 5 weeks I have lost 10 pounds, changed my diet, and I stick to a weekly training schedule.IMG_2026

I am extremely strict with my schedule and make it a top priority to get my long runs in every weekend. Running is fun, but I also take it seriously. I always say to myself, “running is a mind game and you are only competing with yourself.” So naturally, I need to improve my time and be the best I can be at this sport. I try to place top in my age group, so sticking to a schedule is key: especially with me transitioning from the 5k to the ½ marathon.

 

What does my weekly run / cardio training schedule consist of?

Sun:7 mile run, 1 mile cool down walk (total 8miles)

Mon: Walk on lunch break (3miles) and on 2 fifteen minute breaks (2miles) Total 5 miles

Tues: Walk on lunch break (3miles) and on 2 fifteen minute breaks (2miles) Total 5 milestreadmill

Wed: Walk on lunch break (3miles) and on 2 fifteen minute breaks (2miles) Total 5 miles

Thurs: Walk on lunch break (3miles) and on 2 fifteen minute breaks (2miles) Total 5 miles

Fri: Walk on lunch break (3miles) and on 2 fifteen minute breaks (2miles) Total 5 miles

Sat: 9-11 mile run (using the last mile as a cool down walk)

 

What does my weekly cross-training / weight training schedule consist of?

Sun: Day off from weights, run only.

Mon: Weights (Shoulders & Chest) + Walk on lunch.

Tues: Day off, walk on lunch only.huh

Wed: Weights (Arms) + Walk on lunch.

Thurs: Weights (Legs) + Walk on lunch.

Fri: Weights (Back) + Walk on lunch.

Sat: Day off from weights, run only.

 

What does my weekly diet look like?*

Sun: Morning fast, post-workout nutrition, high-protein, high-carbohydrate evening.

Mon: Whole eggs, tuna, salad, baked chicken, protein shake, high-protein, low-carbohydrate dinner.IMG_0063

Tues: Whole eggs, tuna, salad, baked chicken, protein shake, high-protein, low-carbohydrate dinner.

Wed: Eggs whites, tuna, salad, baked chicken, protein shake, high-protein, medium-carbohydrate dinner.

Thurs: Whole eggs, tuna, salad, baked chicken, protein shake, high-protein, low-carbohydrate dinner.

Fri: Whole eggs, tuna, salad, baked chicken, protein shake, high-protein, low-carbohydrate dinner.

Sat: Morning fast, post-workout nutrition, high-protein, high-carbohydrate evening.

The diet is monotonous for a reason: it works. If you can view food as fuel for energy as opposed to a social event, your nutrition will begin to better fuel your training.

 * I will go into much more detail with my diet in my dedicated post to training diet next month.

 

How can YOU move from a 5k to a 1/2 Maraton (or from the couch to a 5k)? Here are my tips:

1) You can never start training too soon! TODAY is a good day to run!

2) With the above being said, give yourself enough time: at least 3 months in advance.IMG_4702

3) Increase the lean protein in your diet: your body will be constantly repairing itself and needs protein to do so.

4) Make a schedule and stick to it.

5) Utilize the treadmill and the gym during the colder winter months of Michigan wonderland bliss!

6) Change your eating habits and fuel your body when needed only.

7) Research and prepare both mentally and physically:

    a) Use Google and read up.

    b) Join a running group.

    c) Take advantage of Gazelle Sports free classes or classes offered through your gym.

8) Have the right gear! Dri-fit clothes, and the perfect pair of running socks and shoes are a must!IMG_4252

 

Table of Contents

Event Details

Half Marathon:

Dec 1 – Feb 28: $75
March 1 – April 16: $85
Late registration at Expotique April 18: $95
No race day registration

Half Marathoners register before March 27, 2015 to insure that your NAME is on your bib!

5k:

Dec 1 – Feb 28: $25
March 1 – April 16: $30
Late registration at Expotique April 18: $35
No race day registration

5kers register before March 27, 2015 to insure that your NAME is on your bib!

*Note: online registration will close April 16 at 11:59 pm.

 

Want more information?

Register HERE

Visit their FAQ page HERE

Like their Facebook page HERE

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