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Old School

When I first started training for marathons in the 1990s, there were no Garmin watches or GPS systems that the "common" man could buy.  I simply read Runner's World, put in the mileage and ran races.  I kept a weekly running and diet log as well.  Over the years, I personally have found that the more gadgets I accumulated the slower I have gotten, perhaps there is a correlation.

I used to run for feel and enjoy the scenery. I was must more in touch with my body and focused on my stride and muscle balance.  I paid attention to signs of dehydration and hunger much more intently and did not care what a "watch" said I should be doing.  I decided based on bio-mechanics.  All during the 1990s and up until 2005 I was able to maintain 8:30-10 milers/ half marathons and 10:30 marathon times.  Then I got on the electronic band wagon and my times have decreased ever since and drastically.  Whether it was Nike+ apps, Garmin, etc.  Electronics gadgets=slower times and distraction for me. In the 90s, I had heart rate monitor and was way more successful.  

Yesterday while on vacation at the beach, I went old school.  I got up and a small breakfast of half bagel, oj and 1/2 cup of fruit and 4 oz of coffee.  I waited 1 hour and then out the door.  I only took my ID, money and water.  I ran 16 miles and felt fine. No Gu's. No Gels, No Gatorade.  All that stuff makes me feel nauseous anyway.  The evening before I had a little meal around 7pm of a few crackers with cheese and fruit and during the day I nibbled on fruit, veggies and nuts.  My largest meal was @ 1:30pm with a small veggie wrap and salad.  Hmmm...This reminds me of how I used to train.  I was fitter and faster.

It is time to go old school again and re-discover what make running fun-Keep it simple baby-Keep it simple.

~Stayfitt

http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/74192748/?new_route=1

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