Tag Archive for: Texas half marathon

November Running Playlist Additions – 10 Must-Add Songs

Refresh your tunes with these November running playlist additions

Often times one song (or several!) can power you through a tough time during an intense workout or a long run. That’s why we’ve created this #WeLiketheSoundofThat playlist! We share every song on Twitter. Follow us so you know what’s next. We’ve taken the most recent 10 songs and put them in this convenient blog. You can listen to our playlist (100+ songs and counting) or refresh your music with these November running playlist additions. Remember, keep the volume low enough or don’t use headphones so you can listen to your surroundings and stay safe while training.

I Like Dirt – Red Hot Chili Peppers
The Chili Peppers have been at it for years. This isn’t one of their major radio hits, but this jam will have you quickly pick up the pace. Pro tip: best listened to if going on a trail run!

Busted and Blue – Black Pistol Fire
Black Pistol Fire call Austin home, but that’s not the only reason they made this list. They have several albums and this song is just the tip of the iceberg for running playlist-approved songs.

Shake It Out – Manchester Orchestra
Not feeling motivated for your run? Sometimes a song just tells you what to do. Pro tip: make this the first song of your playlist and get ready to shake it out!

Good Times Roll – The Cars
You thought this list would be all newer songs? Don’t limit your playlist. The tempo for this song is slower than the others. Pro tip: set this song for your recovery run or cool down and let the good times roll.

Stayin’ Alive – Bee Gees
We’ve often heard runners claim to use this song as their running mantra. Of course it’s on this November running playlist update! Pro tip: set this song towards the end of your long run.

Remember to Breathe – Sturgill Simpson
We’ve got some rock and some classics so of course we added some alt-country. We doubt you’ll forget to breathe, but play this song when you need to slow down the pace and catch your breath.

Southern Point – Grizzly Bear
Don’t let Southern Point’s slow start fool you. It picks up around the 1:05 mark. If you hear this song pop up, use those 65 seconds to recover before you pick up the pace again.

Currency – The Black Angels
Another Austin group that rocks out first and asks questions later. The song is slow and methodical, making it the perfect warm-up or cool-down song.

Keep the Wolves Away – Uncle Lucius
You hear the wolves howling? Those are the voices in your head telling you to cut your run short. They want you to end your workout early. Pro tip: put this song towards the end of your running playlist when you need a reminder to keep the wolves away.

Takin’ Care of Business – Bachman-Turner Overdrive
Put this song anywhere in your playlist and let it be a reminder of what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. You’ve, set goals, you’re working towards them, and you’re takin’ care of business!

Utilize this November running playlist update before you take off for your next run. These 10 songs can pump you up, allow you to catch your breath, or help you focus on the warm-up/cool-down. However you incorporate music, just make sure you can still hear your surroundings. It’s important to know what’s going on around you! Is there something you do that we didn’t list? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Daylight Saving Time Ends – 5 Running Tips to Keep You Safe

Running tips that can keep you safe now that daylight saving time has ended

If your clocks didn’t do it automatically, then you just made every clock you own “fall back.” Whether you like it or not, daylight saving time has ended and the sun will set much, much earlier than normal. In general, this means colder temperatures and less sunlight. But like they say, the training must go on! If you’re training for 3M Half Marathon or the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, these 5 running tips will keep you safe now that daylight saving time has ended. If you’re out driving, watch out for runners and cyclists!

Wear reflective clothing/lights

Reflective clothing is a must! In addition to reflective clothing, bright colors work too. Make sure you’re seen by everyone, from drivers to cyclists. Take your safety a step further and add lights. They’re lightweight and can ensure you’re seen from farther away. Depending on your preference, lights can be worn on your shoes, legs, arms, or your head.

Dress in layers

If it’s chilly outside, dressing in layers can help your body maintain its core temperature. This is critical in ensuring you don’t get sick. It also allows you to take off layers if you get too warm and put them back on when you cool down post-run. When dressing in layers, make sure the layer closest to your body has sweat-wicking material.

Adjust your schedule

Whether you like the time change or not, you should adjust your schedule now that daylight saving time has ended. If you can, run when the sun is out, coming up, or going down. This increases the chances that you’re seen by others. You also avoid running during the coldest parts of the day, especially early morning. You should always check the weather before you head out for a run.

Run defensively

Running defensively doesn’t mean you have to run slower. This could mean wearing reflective clothing/lights (like above), avoiding busy roads, or running in areas with high foot traffic. If you do run near busy roads, make sure you run against traffic. Expect the unexpected and briefly slowing down at intersections, parking garage entrances, and apartment/business driveways. As the amount of daylight diminishes, you need to protect yourself from others who aren’t paying attention or might want to cause harm to others.

Tell someone your workout

Before you take off, tell someone (loved one, co-worker, or roommate) your planned route, mileage, and when they can expect you back. Or ask them to run with you! If they don’t, knowing your route and mileage provides an idea of when they can expect you back and where to check should you not come back on time. Turn on the setting that allows someone to know your location, most smartphones have this.

Take your safety into your own hands with our tips. By being proactive, you increase the chances of completing a successful training run. With drivers paying less and less attention, runners need their safety even more seriously. We want you to make it to the 3M Half Marathon start line on January 19th fully healthy! Is there something you do that we didn’t list? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Get to Know Austin via the 3M Half Marathon Course – Part II

Explore Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin

Austin is well-known for its culinary hot spots and picture-worthy locations. This is evident along Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course. We highlight some of our favorite on-course spots, including the Texas State Capitol! Whether you’re an Austinite or in town for the 3M Half Marathon, get to know Austin with our list of seven on-course locations. Don’t miss out on Miles 1-6. Enjoy!

Stacks on stacks on stacks. Credit – Upper Crust Bakery Facebook.

Upper Crust Bakery (Mile 9)

Complete 3M Half Marathon, reward yourself with dessert! Makes sense, right?! Upper Crust Bakery (4508 Burnet Rd.) serves lunch too, but let’s be real, you’re coming here to satisfy your sweet tooth. Everything they make, cakes, pies, pastries, etc., is made from scratch. They’ve been in Austin for 28 years, so this isn’t some fly-by-night operation. Stop by and reward yourself!

Stinson’s Bistro (Mile 9)

Their menu is simple, but delicious. What they do make, they knock out of the park. Stinson’s Bistro (4416 Burnet Rd.) is perfect for date night, an outing with friends, or brunch after you complete 3M Half Marathon! Additionally, they serve beverages from coffee to cocktails. So if you’re watching friends or family, stop by for a coffee and a taco before heading to the finish line. Then make plans to come back and celebrate!

Hearty breakfast tacos from Stinson's Bistro. Get to know Austin when you visit places, like Stinson's Bistro, along the 3M Half Marathon course.

Hearty breakfast tacos from Stinson’s Bistro. Credit – Stinson’s Bistro Facebook.

Hyde Park Neighborhood (Miles 10-11)

Considered by many to be Austin’s first suburb, Hyde Park can trace its origins back to 1891. When you’re running through Hyde Park, soak in the massive trees and the beautiful architecture. If it’s not race day, take a leisurely stroll and check everything out at your own pace. If you’re out walking around make sure you check out the Elisabet Ney Museum, Quack’s 43rd St. Bakery, and Antonelli’s Cheese Shop.

Hancock Golf Course (Mile 11.5)

Stretch out your legs before your half marathon and play a round of nine holes at the Hancock Golf Course. The course (811 E. 41st St.) was founded in 1899 by former Austin mayor Lewis Hancock. It’s one of the oldest golf courses in Texas.

Runner passes through UT campus during the 2019 3M Half Marathon. Get to know Austin when you visit the places in our blog, like The University of Texas.

Runner passes through UT campus during the 2019 3M Half Marathon.

University of Texas (Mile 12)

One mile to go! The sights of the University of Texas will definitely help push you to the finish line. When you enter campus you’ll notice the street signs turn from green to burnt orange. Now you know the eyes of Texas are upon you! Before you pass the majestic Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium (home to the Texas Longhorns football team), enjoy the great view of the UT Tower to your right. To your left is the Mike Myers Stadium and Soccer Field where Austin Marathon Celebrity Ambassador Leo Manzano won many awards and set many records!

Enjoy the chicken fried steak from Scholz Garten. Get to know Austin when you visit places, like Scholz Garten, along the 3M Half Marathon course.

You’ll enjoy the chicken fried steak from Scholz Garten. Credit – Scholz Garten Facebook.

Scholz Garten (Mile 13)

Even though they open at noon on Sunday, Scholz Garten (1607 San Jacinto Blvd.) is a great spot for a post-3M Half Marathon gathering. The German food is delicious, there’s plenty of seating (including outdoors), and the atmosphere is always lively! Scholz Garten was established in 1886 and houses one of the nation’s oldest bowling centers. Pro tip: we recommend everything on the menu!

Texas State Capitol (finish line)

The beautiful Texas State Capitol (1100 Congress Ave.) has a rich history and serves as a backdrop for many post-3M Half Marathon photos! Take a Capitol tour and learn about the building’s life and its connection to Texas history. Not a fan of tours? A leisurely stroll on Capitol grounds will get the job done. Don’t forget your camera! Fun fact: the Texas Capitol is taller than the US Capitol!

Miles 7-13.1 of the 3M Half Marathon course features flavorful options and a place to enjoy a relaxing night out. Add these hot spots to your must-visit list and get to know Austin even more. Check out hot spots along Miles 1-6 and complete the course. Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know what it is on Facebook or Twitter.

Free Half Marathon Training Plan for 3M Half Marathon

12-week half marathon training plan to get you ready for 3M Half Marathon

Professional triathlete and coach Paul “Barny” Matthews built a 12-week half marathon training plan to get you ready for the 2020 3M Half Marathon on January 19th! Whether you want to set a new PR or just cross the finish line, download this half marathon training plan and toe the start line with confidence. Training begins Sunday, Oct. 27th, and takes you all the way to the start line.

Register for 3M Half Marathon and start training today!

Train with a pro

Matthews is a world-class triathlete, winning or placing at numerous IRONMANs and 70.3s. He broke onto the triathlon scene at the 2014 IRONMAN Asia Pacific Championship in Melbourne. The native Australian finished second in his home country with a time of 8:02:14. He ran the marathon portion of the triathlon (final portion) in 2:44:09! During the marathon, he averaged 6:26 min/mile after swimming 2.4 miles and cycling 112 miles! His coaching style provides athletes with a blend of training knowledge he’s learned first-hand. Matthews also includes lessons he’s been taught from other world-class runners and triathletes.

This downloadable plan is geared for runners who want to complete their first half marathon or set a new PR. You can customize this training plan yourself by adjusting the specific workouts and their days to fit your busy life.

Pro tip: when you have a rest day, take it!

Take your training to the next level and contact Matthews today for personalized coaching. Make sure you ask for his special 3M Half Marathon coaching rate! Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see where he’s training and join him for a workout.

Enter your email to download the half marathon training plan!

3M Half Marathon training plan for the month of October.

3M Half Marathon training plan for the month of November.

3M Half Marathon training plan for the month of December.

3M Half Marathon training plan for the month of January.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Get to Know Austin via the 3M Half Marathon Course – Part I

Explore Miles 1-6 of the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin better

You can’t run a few miles in Austin without passing a delicious restaurant or unique location. This is evident along Miles 1-6 of the 3M Half Marathon course. We highlight some of our favorite on-course spots, including Oskar Blues Brewery, our Official Beer sponsor! Whether you’re an Austinite or in town for the 3M Half Marathon presented by Under Armour, get to know Austin with our list of seven on-course locations. Enjoy! Pro tip: stay tuned for Miles 7-13.

North by Northwest sign greets runners during the 2019 3M Half Marathon. Check out the various locations in this blog post along the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin.

North by Northwest sign greets runners during the 2019 3M Half Marathon. Credit – Ed Sparks

NXNW Restaurant and Brewery (near the start line)

North by Northwest (10010 N. Capital of Texas Hwy.) has been a north Austin staple since it opened in 1999. NXNW is known for its generous helpings of food and their restaurant’s homey feel. We strongly recommend anything on their brunch menu, especially their Waffle and Spicy Chicken Stack! Pro tip: park near the start line on race day, take the shuttle at the finish line back to your car, and visit them for brunch (they open at 10:00 a.m.).

The Domain (Mile 1.5)

This sprawling, upscale outdoor mall (11410 Century Oaks Terrace) is home to some of North Austin’s finest dining, shopping, and nightlife. It offers everything downtown offers, but with more parking! However, our favorite place at The Domain is the HOPE Outdoor Gallery public mural installations in Rock Rose District. This art represents and replaces the world-renowned downtown community paint park (11th and Baylor St.) that is now closed.

Band performs live at Oskar Blues Brewery. Check out the various locations in this blog post along the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin.

Band performs live at Oskar Blues Brewery.

Oskar Blues Brewery (near Mile 2.5)

Oskar Blues (10420 Metric Blvd Ste. 150) has been the 3M Half Marathon’s Official Beer since they moved to Austin in 2016. Their 50,000 square foot facility brews their entire line-up and regularly hosts live music. OBATX is a great place to relax and unwind pre- and post-race! Pro tip: show them your 3M Half Marathon bib and your first beer is on the house!

Austin Opera (Mile 3)

Check out the Austin Opera (3009 Industrial Terrace) calendar and plan your next night out on the town! The Opera was founded in 1986 and has provided cultural nourishment to the Central Texas community ever since. Check out their upcoming events and support their youth initiatives.

Picture of eggs benedict from the District Kitchen brunch menu. Check out the various locations in this blog post along the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin.

Grab brunch and refuel after 3M Half Marathon. Credit – District Kitchen Facebook page.

Camp Gladiator HQ (Mile 3.5)

Camp Gladiator Trainers will support and encourage you on race day at several cheer stations along the course. Keep an eye out for them, especially at CG HQ (9185 Research Blvd.). If you workout at one of their 3500+ locations across the country, visit HQ when you’re in town and show them some love.

District Kitchen (Mile 5.5)

District Kitchen (7858 Shoal Creek Blvd.) partners with local farms and businesses to create what they call New American Cuisine. Their seasonal menu pairs perfectly with their extensive wine and cocktail list. Refuel after you complete the 3M Half Marathon, District Kitchen’s brunch menu has something for everyone!

Spread of Filipino food from Be More Pacific. Check out the various locations in this blog post along the 3M Half Marathon course and get to know Austin.

Spread of Filipino food from Be More Pacific. Credit – Be More Pacific Facebook page.

Be More Pacific Filipino Kitchen and Bar (Mile 5.5)

What started as a food truck serving Filipino cuisine in 2011 grew to the brick and mortar that exists today (7858 Shoal Creek Blvd.) Be More Pacific serves everything from homemade Filipino specialties to bar food. Their wide-ranging brunch menu is only available on Sundays. That’s right, another amazing post-3M Half Marathon brunch option!

Miles 1-6 of the 3M Half Marathon course features flavorful options and a place to enjoy a relaxing night out. Add these hot spots to your must-visit list and get to know Austin even more. Don’t worry, we still have to visit Miles 7-13! Did your favorite on-course spot make our list? If not, let us know what it is on Facebook or Twitter.