Hi all! Hope you’re having an excellent weekend – I have plenty to catch you up on, and am looking forward to an epic writing session tomorrow night. Today though, it’s time for another Sweat Pink Blog Swap, with Glenneth, a fellow SPA, who blogs at letstalkandwalk.com. We would also like to say a big thank you to Jill Conyers for organising the swap.

You know how I’m nuts about running? Well Glenneth is nuts about walking. She is the perfect balance to me, and if you’re not huge into the whole running as fast as you can go thing, you might be pleasantly surprised by Glenneth’s approach to racing – go Glenneth! So glad to have you posting today.

Trail Racing and Your First 5km

Hi Run With Kate fans!

I’m Glenneth and I blog at Let’s Talk and Walk.  Did you read Kate’s marathon recap?  She amazes me.  Actually, most runners amaze me.  I am not a runner.  I am a walker and proud of it.  I have done over 50 5Ks in the past two years.  I want to share a trail race story with you, then offer 5 tips for walking (or running) your first 5K.  Hope you enjoy!

Today’s story is about the Wanderer’s Trail Race.  After walking dozens of 5K road races, I decided I wanted to try something a little longer and more challenging.  I figured a 4-mile trail race would qualify.  I checked with the race director and was told that walkers were welcome, so I decided to give it a shot.

I was super nervous about this race because I didn’t know what to expect.  I didn’t have anyone walking with me.  Hubby and our friend J were running the race.  I knew once they finished they would come back and find me, but until then I was on my own.

The race started and within .25 miles I couldn’t see anyone in front of me.  No huge deal since the trail was clearly marked.  I took it slow and steady.  It had rained HARD for the two previous days and there was lots of mud to get through.  I knew this ahead of time and was prepared.

An advantage of not being around other people was not getting mud thrown up into my face.  I took my time through the obstacles.  Being as klutzy as I am, I was worried about the possibility of falling and hurting myself with no one around.  I took it slow and steady through all the different challenges.

I got to a “puddle” and was trying to determine just how deep said puddle was.  At that moment, this couple came flying through the woods (they had started super late) and reached me.  They also stopped.  The female said to the male – you do it first.  So, off he went.  Then she went.  Then it was my turn.  Cold muddy water up to my knees.   On the plus side, it washed all the mud off my shoes.

I continued along the course and finally saw hubby and friend.  I was very thankful to see people I knew at that point.

I was the last to finish.  Dead last.  They were waiting on me to close the timer.  I didn’t care.  I finished and I did it all on my own.

Later I learned that there had been a water station AND volunteers on the course to help people.  However, some people in front of me told them they were last and they closed up the course.  So I truly did this one on my own and I am quite proud.  Even with a last place finish.

I encourage everyone to just try one race.  See if you like it.

Five Tips for Walking (or Running) Your First 5K

1. Find a race to train for.  Check with your local track club – they usually have lists of the local races.  If you are planning to walk the race, check to make sure that it is walker friendly.  Our local track club is great about putting this on the race registration form or telling us how long the course stays open.
2. Get the right pair of shoes.  So important.  Best advice is go to your local running store and get fitted.  I love many different kinds of shoes, however, Brooks Running shoes are my staples.  They make my feet feel awesome.
3. Start walking (or running).  I usually walk 2 nights a week and then a race on the weekend.  For other activities I include biking, spinning, elliptical, or strength training.
4. Find a buddy to walk (or run) with.  This can help especially if it is your very first race.
5. Enjoy the experience!  Go out there with the intention to have fun!

Huge thanks to Kate for letting me talk to you all today!

Enjoy your day!