My Favorite Running Treats

I recently decided to get back into running.

I used to run. Almost everyday. For about 6 years.

And then I trained for a half marathon, ran the half marathon, and for several reasons, got b-u-r-n-t-o-u-t.

After the race. I just had no desire to run anymore. One reason was because I had gained some weight training – much of it was muscle, but definitely not all. I still ate very healthy and was vegetarian (besides fish at the time), but would splurge quite a bit because “I ran 10 miles, I can eat whatever today!”. 

I also pulled a muscle in my hamstring. Nothing terrible, but it was still there. I actually couldn’t feel it when I was running, just when I would go to stretch or practice yoga. And it was frustrating. SO I held off on running and instead, started teaching more Energy Flow and Barre classes. And this didn’t leave much time for running.

But lately, it’s been calling to me. I’ll hear a song that make me want to fly, and I’ll wish I was running. The weather will be cool and breezy, and I’ll think “This is the perfect weather for a good run”. And I also realized, most of my exercise routines were strength building but not many were cardio.

And when we moved, I knew it was time to start again. I was back in my old running grounds. A place where I would run after classes for 2 years.

And so last week, I felt inspired (mostly by my brother starting to run and enjoying it for the first time EVER) and went for a run. At first, it was hard. My legs were stiff. My breath was a little short, as was my stride. But after a few minutes, I loosened up, stepped right back into my zone and ran. And I’ve started adding it in 3-4 days a week. Each time, I feel great – whether my legs feel like lead or they feel light and fast. And I try my best to set no limitations, just go however far, however fast, and however strong my body needs that day.

No when I run, I treat myself to a healthy, non-junky food, pre or post run.

My Favorite Pre- and Post Run Healthy Fuels:

1) Green Living Pre Workout Drink

2) Energy Balls

3) 1/2 Frozen Banana – no recipe needed here, just 1/2 a frozen banana

4) Almond Butter Date Bites

5) Green Smoothie

What are your favorite healthy ways to fuel up pre or post workout?

Need some tweaks to your workout routine or diet? Sign up for the 21-Day End of Summer Detox!

Peace and Love,

Jessi