Sometimes it seems as if the universe aligns to send you a little message you might have otherwise missed.
Ever feel that way?
Last week, I had the desire to head out for a run. Something I hadn’t done in awhile. This summer has been busy, lately it has been either stiflingly hot or pouring rain, and my work (and workout schedule) doesn’t give me much time to do more activity. I thought I might need some sort of training plan to get started again. A goal of sorts to map out my weekly runs.
Then a few things happened:
– I woke up early one morning at 5am and had the brief idea to get up and go for an early morning run (I didn’t, but even the thought of this is HUGE for me)
– I looked closely at my schedule and found 4 days that I could go for a run
– A class of mine was canceled due to weather and I got to run outside in the rain (glorious and cleansing)
– I found out my town was hosting a half marathon in 2 months
So after debating whether or not to run, and when to run, I decided to listen to the universe instead and start training for my second half marathon. Coming up this November in my very own hometown (which means no traveling, no hotels and more time the morning of).
Last time I trained, I ate a ton of food and gained about 10 pounds. Not all muscle. This time I plan to fuel better, using plant-based protein powders, replenishing and hydrating fruits and veggies, plenty of coconut water, and of course, juices and smoothies.
To start, I have these energy balls stored in my freezer for a little pre or post run snack. They taste like cookies, but are healthy and perfect for repairing post run.
Here is a breakdown of the running/workout friendly ingredients:
1) Dates – high in potassium to replenish electrolytes
2) Chia seeds – hydrating
3) Oatmeal – healthy carbs and protein to restore energy
4) Hemp Protein – slow releasing to refuel and repair
5) Coconut Oil – healthy fat to fuel your brain (super important for mental stamina with you workout)
6) Coconut sugar – low glycemic sweetener aka won’t spike blood sugar
7) Sea salt – electrolyte replenisher
8) Dark chocolate – does it need a reason??
Vanilla Protein Energy Balls:
Makes approximately 12 energy balls
1 1/4 cup GF Oatmeal
1 tbsp coconut sugar
1 tbsp coconut oil
1/2 cup vanilla hemp protein powder (or other plant-based protein powder)
pinch sea salt
7 dates
1 tbsp chia seeds+ 1/4 cup water (chia egg)
1/2 dark chocolate bar or 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks
Blend 1/2 of oatmeal in blender until it becomes flour-like in consistency. Add in you coconut sugar, coconut oil, hemp powder, sea salt, and chia egg. Blend until mixed thoroughly – it will be quite sticky. Scoop into a bowl and stir in the rest of the oatmeal (not blended) and chocolate chunks. Roll into 1 inch balls and place on a freezer-safe tray. Pop in freezer for at least an hour and enjoy! Keep frozen until ready to eat.
Enjoy!
