half marathon Archives

Make it to Your Morning Run with these 6 Tips

Get out the door for your morning run with this helpful advice

You hear that? That’s your alarm clock going off earlier than normal. Your schedule calls for an early morning run. Now the internal battle begins because your bed is so comfortable and you were really enjoying sleep. Every runner battles themselves in some way every morning. Use one or all six of these tips to make your morning run!

Runner gives two thumbs up during 2019 3M Half Marathon while listening to music. Runners can make their own playlist to help them get up in the morning for their morning run.

Make a playlist that you’ll give two thumbs up!

1. Plan a Scenic Route to Motivate You

One of the biggest perks of living in Austin is the abundance of scenic running spots. Plan your morning run to include some of the city’s most beautiful locations. Nothing gets you moving like the promise of a sunrise over Lady Bird Lake or the cool, shaded paths of the Barton Creek Greenbelt.

Pro Tip: Kickstart your morning with a loop around the Lady Bird Lake Trail. You’ll get to see rowers gliding across the water as the city wakes up, which will fuel your motivation. Plus, how can you say no to those postcard-worthy skyline views?

2. Run Fuel at a Local Coffee Shop

Plan to stop by one of Austin’s many runner-friendly coffee shops after your run for a little post-workout treat. Whether it’s a cold brew from Mozart’s Coffee Roasters or an iced matcha latte from Houndstooth Coffee, having a post-run ritual tied to a local favorite can help get you excited to lace up. You’ve earned it!

Pro Tip: Tell yourself, “If I get this run in, I’m stopping by Bennu Coffee for a lavender latte.” Boom! Motivation and reward all in one.

3. Join a Local Running Group

Austin has an awesome running community, and nothing helps you stick to your morning run schedule like knowing someone is counting on you. Groups like The Morning Jo’s, RAW Running, and the Rise & Run have regular meetups around the city, often in the early morning hours. Not only will you have someone to run with, but you’ll also be a part of Austin’s vibrant running scene. Accountability = consistency.

Pro Tip: Check out WeRunAustin.com to find run groups to fit your schedule. Some running groups meet at iconic spots like the Texas Capitol or Zilker Park. Make friends and explore the city’s best running routes together!

4. Set Everything Out the Night Before

Take the guesswork out of your morning by laying out your gear the night before. Shoes, socks, watch, and hydration—have it all ready to go. When your gear is staring you in the face, it’s a lot harder to justify staying in bed. Plus, you’ll save valuable time in the morning. You know what they say: “Don’t think, just run!”

Pro Tip: Put your phone with your alarm across the room, next to your running gear. Now you have to get up!

5. Pair Your Run with a Recovery Session at a Local Spot

Once your morning run is complete, treat yourself to some active recovery! Austin has plenty of great places to help you recover in style. Swing by Deep Eddy Pool for a post-run swim or stop by Black Swan Yoga for a quick restorative session. Knowing you have a relaxing recovery plan lined up can help push you out the door in the morning.

Pro Tip: If you’re running on the Shoal Creek Trail, plan a cool-down stretch on the beautiful lawns at Pease Park afterward. You’ll get to relax while soaking in some nature.

6. Set a Race-Day Goal to Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Whether you’re training for the Austin International Half Marathon or aiming for a personal best at a local 10K, keeping race day in mind is a powerful motivator. Austin’s race scene is electric, and nothing feels better than crossing the finish line knowing those early mornings paid off. Keep your registration confirmation or bib from a past race visible as a daily reminder of why you’re putting in the work.

Pro Tip: The Austin International Half Marathon is known for its amazing crowd support and lively atmosphere, so picture yourself running through downtown with the cheers of the city pushing you to the finish line. That’s something worth waking up for!

With Austin’s stunning running spots, cool local hangouts, and strong running community, there’s no reason you can’t conquer your morning run. Sure, the bed is comfy—but the feeling of a morning well spent on the trails is even better. Stick to these tips, and you’ll be cruising through those training miles and ready to dominate race day at the Austin International Half!

Let’s rise, run, and crush it together, Austin!

Blog, Running Tips

Optimal Nutrition Strategies: Pre-Race and On-Course Fueling at the 3M Half Marathon

Maximize Your Performance with GU’s Expert Nutrition Planning

Months of training lead up to your pursuit of a personal best at the 3M Half Marathon. To support your efforts, GU Energy Labs, the Official Energy Gel and Chew of the 3M Half Marathon, offers scientifically designed products to boost your energy levels when you need it most.

Revitalize at the GU Energy Zone at Mile 7

Be sure to visit the GU Energy Zone at Mile 7 for a burst of energy! Here, you’ll find GU gels and chews:

Strawberry Chews (with caffeine)
Lemon Sublime Gel (caffeine-free)
Chocolate Outrage Gel (with caffeine)
Salted Watermelon Gel (with caffeine)

Remember, your pre-race preparation is just as crucial as your race-day strategy. Let’s explore some tips to optimize your performance.

Fueling Tips Before Your Half Marathon

In the week leading up to the race, focus on hydrating and increasing your calorie intake, especially carbohydrates. Hydration is key – You can supplement your water intake with nuun hydration, available at all aid stations, to make sure you are getting the electrolytes your body needs to be sufficiently hydrated come race morning.

The Science of Carb-Loading

The Mayo Clinic recommends starting carb-loading a week before the event, increasing your carbohydrate intake to 8 to 12 grams per kilogram of body weight. When you combine carbohydrate loading and tapering your workouts, you can store more energy in your muscles which will give you more energy sources during your event.

Carbohydrate-Rich Foods to Consider:

One slice of bread
A 6-inch tortilla
1/2 cup mashed potatoes or 1/2 medium baked potato or sweet potato
1/3 cup rice
One small apple or two tangerines
2 tablespoons raisins
1/2 cup orange juice
3 cups green beans
1 1/4 cup milk or yogurt

On race morning, aim to eat 2-3 hours before starting to avoid a heavy stomach. If you oversleep, opt for a lighter meal with liquid or gel carbs.

On Course Fueling: Personalize Your Nutrition Plan

We understand that planning your race nutrition can be daunting, so we recommend utilizing the GU Half Marathon Nutrition Planner. This tool helps you customize your nutrition plan based on various factors like your body size, the race’s intensity, and personal preferences.

Here’s how to use GU’s Nutrition Planner

1. Pick your goal finishing time and find out what your average pace will be
2. Use the table to determine your total nutritional need for the event
3. Mix and match your favorite products and flavors, then calculate your totals
4. Make sure your plan meets your body’s demand for each nutritional element

As you count down the days to the 3M Half Marathon, remember that your nutrition is as vital as your training. By following these guidelines and tailoring them to your personal needs, you’ll step up to the starting line with confidence, knowing you’re well-prepared to tackle every mile. Whether it’s your first half marathon or you’re a seasoned pro aiming for a new record, the right nutrition strategy can make all the difference.

We’re thrilled to support you on this journey and can’t wait to cheer you on as you cross that finish line. Remember, the 3M Half Marathon isn’t just about reaching the finish line – it’s about the exhilarating experience, the personal achievements, and the story you’ll tell after conquering those 13.1 miles.

Here’s to a race filled with energy, strength, and unforgettable moments. See you at the finish line!

Blog

2023 July Running Playlist: Your PR-Chasing Soundtrack

The July running playlist is the anthem you need to chase your 13.1-mile PR

We’ve got more tunes for you because Austin is The Live Music Capital of the World. We’re sharing our favorite tunes with you every month so you can train for and chase your half-marathon PR. Often times one song (or several!) can power you through a tough time during an intense workout or a long run. Trust us, we speak from experience! Jam out to the entire July running playlist or take your favorites and make your own list. The July running playlist has the music you need, from AC/DC’s Thunderstruck to one of Texas’ ascending stars, Leon Bridge

Playlist pro tips:

1) drag the July Running Playlist to your ‘Playlists’ section for quick access

2) click the download button so you can listen even if you’re offline

Utilize the July running playlist and these 5 self-care tips to maximize your training. Keep the volume at a level where you can pay attention to your surroundings. It’s important to know what’s going on around you!

Blog, Running Tips

I Ran 13.1 Miles, Not Just a Half Marathon

Running 13.1 miles is an impressive feat, it’s not just a half marathon

Every year thousands of participants chase their half marathon PR at 3M Half Marathon. Whether you earn a new PR or not, you’ve still completed a magnificent achievement. Crossing the finish line marks the completion of 13.1 miles, not just a half marathon. High Five Events’ Emily Stevens tells her story of completing 13.1 miles and achieving her goal.

Have to run marathons

When I started investing in my running hobby, by paying to be coached, I thought the only way to justify spending the money was if I ran marathons. For two years I ran marathons and was completely dedicated to a strict weekly running schedule. Fortunately, I had the luxury to plan my life around that schedule. I joined a running group and set mileage and speed goals with my coach every week. Marathons were my focus and I had no interest in “just halves.” I was committed 100% and my family fully supported me.

In year two I had some upper thigh pain while running, but barreled through. I kept stretching, rolling, icing, heating, sports massage, and cryogenics. Injury didn’t fit into my plans of training for more marathons. Unbeknownst to me, my last marathon was to be on January 13, 2013. The race was super fun for the first 15 miles. The rest was so increasingly painful, it was like nothing I had ever experienced before or since, and I’ve birthed a child! I did finish, but I was barely walking.

Injury opens a new door

It turns out that the vast amount of miles I had run to prepare for what would be my final marathon caused a stress reaction in the neck of my left femur. Running was trying to chip away at my bone. The day after that marathon I was diagnosed and prescribed crutches to use for 10 weeks. I was told that if, after I healed, I continued running that amount of mileage I could end up needing plates in my thigh bone to hold it together. The news was devastating, but more so it was really scary! Running marathons was my pride and joy.

As my leg was healing, I was forced to get inside my head and re-evaluate things. I was anxious to get back to running, but I was not willing to destroy my leg. By the time I could run again I was so thankful to be able to run for five minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes. The first time I ran a full mile I actually teared up. I was slow and steady and if I ever felt the slightest twinge I quit. Instead of being upset, I commended myself for trying and listening to my body. Once I was able to run four or five miles I decided it was time to set a spectacular goal. I was going to run a half marathon. I was more excited to achieve that goal than any of the marathons I ran.

Running 13.1 miles, not just a half marathon

Six months later I ran a half marathon. It was the most rewarding race of my life. I ran 13.1 miles. I RAN A HALF MARATHON.

There is never a reason to denigrate running 13.1 miles. It’s not just a half. It’s in a category that has nothing to do with a full marathon. A half is 21.1 kilometers and takes more than 30,000 steps. That’s three times the daily recommended amount for exercise. A half marathon is an excellent goal and a sweet achievement!

Running Tips

Summertime Running Advice Every Runner Should Know

Our summertime running advice will keep you moving during the summer months

With Texas already experiencing some summer-like days, it’s important to take advantage of the remaining cool days and mornings while you can! While the humidity and soaring heat may make it challenging to run, it doesn’t mean you have to stop altogether. Instead, consider using this season as an opportunity to become a better runner while staying safe. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with valuable advice on how to beat the heat and continue running during the summertime. Embrace the challenge to make yourself a better runner and stay safe with our advice. Implement this summertime running advice to beat the heat.

Protect yourself

Image of two women running on a shaded trail. They're following the 3M Half Marathon's summertime running advice to beat the heat while they run.

Trail running is a great way to beat the heat!

If you run when the sun is out, protect yourself from its rays.

apply sweat-proof sunscreen 15-20 minutes before your run or workout
wear a hat or visor to protect your face
rock the shades (protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and glares from other objects)
wear light-colored clothes (dark colors absorb more heat) and sweat-wicking material

Hit the trails

Get off the roads and hit the trails! Austin is crawling with amazing trails that you can run on. Running with nature gets you away from the asphalt (absorbs heat), away from cars and their exhaust, and closer to the trees (that provide shade) and creeks (where you can cool off if needed). Pro tip: if you run with your dog on the trails, obey all city ordinances and make sure you pack water and a bowl (or that the creeks have running water).

Adjust schedule

It’s no secret that the mornings and evenings are cooler than the afternoon. Running/working out when it’s 15-20 degrees cooler can make all the difference. The last thing you want to do is overheat your body. Pro tip: these six tips will help ensure you make your morning run.

Hydrate

Oftentimes the most overlooked tip. Not because people don’t hydrate, but because people don’t hydrate enough. 60-80 fluid ounces is recommended daily depending on body weight. If you’re more active you’ll need to increase the amount. Make sure to incorporate a nice balance of water and a liquid with electrolytes. Adequately hydrating on a daily basis ensures your body has what it needs when you begin sweating during your run/workout.

Cross-train

Yes, cross-training can help you improve as a runner! You don’t have to stop running, but your mileage will decrease when you implement cross-training. This can be as simple as riding your bike on these shaded trails. You could try online yoga, bootcamp workouts, or rock climbing. Remember to apply sunscreen if you’re outdoors. Benefits: increase lung capacity, recovery from a hard run, strengthen muscles, and increase flexibility.

The summer heat doesn’t have to be a barrier to your running routine. With careful planning and incorporating the tips mentioned in this blog post, you can stay safe and still enjoy the benefits of running during the summer months. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just starting out, it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your routine accordingly. By staying hydrated, wearing breathable clothing, running in shaded areas, and taking breaks when needed, you can continue to challenge yourself and improve your fitness level while beating the heat.

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