Race Run, How Did That Happen

Ever gone on a run, and come across another runner? More likely than not the answer is yes, especially if you're from a city or suburban area. In Albany I find that no matter where I run I pass by numerous fellow runners. The situation I'm about to describe usually only happens in the summer. But on this brisk day in November I found myself in the same circumstance.

You're on a run, usually a decently long run, a six plus miler or so and you come across another runner say twenty feet ahead of you. The natural instinct inside of you to race sparks up. You have to constantly remind yourself that this isn't a race it is in fact just a workout and you need not search for your inner strength in order to pass this unsuspecting runner. You keep telling yourself over and over that you don't need to surge ahead. More likely than not, your mind and body do it anyway.

The catch is always after you pass them.

Once you've passed this runner you quickly realize you have five more miles to go and usually this person is going for a casual two miler or something along those lines. This means they're able to run quickly easily and you're trying to pace yourself. This puts you in the transition for turning your easy long run into an intense long tempo run, which is never fun, especially when you're not expecting it.

You'll continue to push because you clearly cannot let this person pass you back. This continues for the entirety until finally the other runner fades off or takes a turn behind you. You instantly pray to never do that again and then continue on your way with a much higher heart rate than you anticipated.

Long Runs and Skim Milk

DISCLAIMER: I'm not promoting binge drinking, but I'm being real and I know it occurs on college campus's world wide especially on 21st birthdays.  

So per usual 21st birthday festivities I had a bit too much to drink last night. As the great Kanye West says "Why is everything that is supposed to be so bad make me feel so good?" Luckily I took the day off of work today and I don't have any classes on Friday's so I was able to go out for a decent run this morning.

Here's some VERY HELPFUL hangover facts for everyone.

First I must disclose that I am lucky enough to not get that hungover the next morning when I drink heavily the night before. But as a semi-typical college kid I've had my fare share of rough nights with 8am wake-ups to go for a run. As my team and I like to say the best cure for a hangover is a long run and I personally like to complete it with a large cold glass of skim milk. I love skim milk and the morning after I drink it feels so good.

I know everyone's probably thinking how the heck am I supposed to run with a hangover, but that simply is the hardest part actually getting up and going out for the run. Once you're out there, after about mile three you'll start to feel refreshed, the first couple of miles you'll still be questioning why you're doing this. After you're done you'll feel so rejuvenated.

Trust me.