I traded in my running shoes for some golfing shoes as we celebrated by playing 18 holes of golf with his parents. (It was a golf outing put on by our local Chamber of Commerce, so we were able to network while playing!) It was an absolutely beautiful day in Michigan – 70* and sunny with a breeze.

Let me start by saying, Brent is the golfer. He golfed in high school where his team made it to the state finals. I’m the one who played tennis and volleyball in high school, and picked up some clubs once we got married. In other words, Brent has tried to change my tennis swing into a golf swing, and it doesn’t always work well.

Since it was a golf outing, we played a scramble format. Basically, there are up to 4 people on a team, and you all hit the ball, but get to play the best shot. Being a non-golfer, this is my favorite way to play!

Our first couple holes were less than stellar, especially since we hadn’t picked up the golf clubs since late last summer. After getting warmed up, we started to find our groove and played pretty well throughout the rest of the course!

I’ll be honest, my favorite shot is the drive off the tee. Something about hitting that ball with all you’ve got and hearing the ‘ping’ from the club makes me smile. However, I’m always so excited to see how my shot turns out that I lift my head to watch it, and screw up the shot. Brent has literally been working with me on this for years, and I’m excited to say that everything came together last week! I kept my head down and my drives were beautiful!

We found that my phone took a multi-shot sequence, so we played around with that while hitting the ball. It was fun to look back at our form, except when Brent would critique himself. (I can completely relate – I’m that way when I play tennis or volleyball!)

I’m usually fairly decent with putting as well. We’ll credit that to my parents who took us putt-putt golfing all the time as kids! However, as my driving game was going well, my putting game suffered. Funny how that happens. Thank goodness Brent’s mom was on a putting streak!

Highlight of my day? Having the professional golfers at one of the holes say I had a nice drive. And only losing one of my pink golf balls. It’s the little things.

Overall, we all had a great game and enjoyed the day! I definitely think we’ll be playing some more golf this summer!

If you’re a golfer (or have golfed before), what is your best part of the game?

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This was my last race until September (well, August if you include the Color Run), which was a little bittersweet. I had goals of getting a PR. My current PR was 26:10 and I was hoping to fall in the 25 minute range. (Even 25:59 would have been great!)

However, my mileage has suffered this week due to shin splints, and I’m coming off a fast 15.5 miles from the River Bank Run last weekend.

I was still determined to run a decent race, so I woke up and put KT Tape on right away. I grabbed my gear and drove to our local middle school to pick up my packet. Halfway to the race I realized I had forgotten my Garmin.

That’s right, I forgot my Garmin.

I’ve run another race without my Garmin and ironically, it was the 5K I ran in 26:10. I took that as a sign that these short races may be better without it, so I kept driving to the race.

I got my packet and bib number, and headed to the start line. I chatted with people I knew (I LOVE our town’s little community!) and met a girl who was running her first 5K! She was super nervous, so we were all encouraging her. (Her dad was set up on the course with a sign for her!) There were around 125 of us running.

Soon we were off, and I just tried to find the best pace I could. I know this course very well, so I knew when there were places to watch my footing and spots where there were little hills. I kept strong through the turnaround (where I saw a little 10-year old boy FLYING by with his dad!) and around mile 2.5, I started to feel my shins ache. I did my best to push through it, but knew I was slowing down.

Since I had no idea what my pace was, I just focused on one foot in front of the other, keeping up with the runners ahead of me. The sun was shining (of course it wasn’t before the race, so I didn’t grab my sunglasses) and I felt the sweat on my face.

We crossed over the river, and I knew the finish line was close. I kicked it up a bit, and when I was about .02 miles from the finish, I saw the clock.

26:14

That’s right, I was just SECONDS off my PR.

I ran through the finish line, but I will admit – I was mad! If I had known how close I was, I would have pushed harder that last mile. Unofficial Time – 26:18. SO close, yet so far.

After crossing the finish line, we headed to a table to turn in our times, labeled by age group. I looked in my age group – and wasn’t there. They had put me in a higher age group! Now, I will enter that age group this November, and offered to stay in that group (I would have gotten 2nd in it!) – but they moved me back down. Maybe that is a good sign for when I turn 30!

I cheered on a friend as she finished her first 5K after dealing with injuries and illness for over a year. To see her smile and give her a hug afterward was the highlight of my day! We may have had a little dance party with the great music at the finish as well.

This event also has a community walk, and it was so neat to see all the families get ready to walk the course we had just run. What a great way to keep the entire family active! It was led by Susan Wheatlake, the breast cancer survivor who created the Susan P. Wheatlake Cancer Center in our town. All proceeds of this event go toward the Cancer Center, which is amazing. I love supporting a fantastic cause!

Sure I beat myself up over my race. Then I remembered a few important things. My shin splints have decided to (recently) flare up. I had kept a 9:38 average pace for 15.5 miles the week before. I haven’t been doing a lot of speed work recently. Yet I still managed to run a 5K just seconds slower than I did last year.

Again, I am stronger than I think.

I know that I have a faster 5K in me. I know I have a faster half marathon in me. I know I have a faster marathon in me.

Now it’s time to train. It’s time work on speed. It’s time to increase the weekly mileage. It’s time to focus on nutrition. It’s time to read up on ways to make my running even better.

It’s time to get to work.

 What is your favorite event in your hometown?

2013 SPW 5K is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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Sunday, May 12 – Rest

Monday, May 13 – Arm/Ab strength training

Tuesday, May 14 – 3 mile run

Wednesday, May 15 – 18 holes of golf

Thursday, May 16 – 1.6 mile run, 30 minutes spin bike, Arm/Ab strength training

Friday, May 17 – Ab strength training

Saturday, May 18 – SPW 5K

I was able to try out my new Brooks Pure Flow 2s! I’m excited to keep running in them and see how they compare to my Pure Cadence 2s.

Yesterday after the 5K, I got the lawn mowed (finally) and then Brent and I enjoyed a day date!

Yes, I wore my KT Tape on our date. Completely normal.

We got a late lunch, did a little shopping and watched Star Trek. We watched Iron Man 3 last weekend after the River Bank Run, so my inner geek has been at full force. (I also have a crush on Tony Stark. Okay fine, the crush is on his technology.) We have seen all of the original Star Trek movies (numerous times), however I was a huge fan of the remake 4 years ago. But I’ll be honest, the previews for the second one had me a little nervous. It looked like it was going to be all doom and gloom, and I was not in the mood for that. Boy was I mistaken – it was amazing! I highly recommend it!

I’m planning on relaxing tomorrow – which includes something I haven’t done in months. Read! I can’t wait to sit out in the sunshine with a book in my hand!

Are you a Star Trek or Star Wars fan?

Weekly Workout Roundup – Week 20, 2013 is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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Although nothing will compare to getting the phone call from my dad, or walking into the funeral home the first time, strong emotion still grabs me from time to time. When we sang the Old Rugged Cross at church a few weeks ago, I was brought to tears. When I watched my cousin play basketball, I cried. When I walked into my grandma’s house to visit her, I had to go in the other room to compose myself. When my run completely fell apart last night, I walked home sobbing.

This only shows how much my grandpa meant to me – and how much I truly miss him.

My grandpa wasn’t outspoken. He usually sat at the table with a smirk on his face as the family members told stories.

My grandpa supported us in many ways. He came to our sporting events and birthday parties, looking on with pride and approval.

My grandpa was a hard worker. He was usually at the farm, his place of solace, making sure the chores were done.

My grandpa made us smile. He brought us turtles that he found on the side of the road or took us fishing at the pond.

My grandpa was a man of integrity and honesty. He believed in people when others didn’t.

My grandpa loved us, his wife, kids, grandkids and great-grandkids, with every ounce of his being. He truly passed down a legacy.

A few months ago, a friend of my grandpa’s came to me and said, “Your grandpa was so proud of you. Every time someone mentioned your name, his face would light up.” I hold that thought deep in my heart and use it when things get tough. That memory, along with so many others, are ones I will cherish forever.

Every day I think of him. Every day I miss him. Every day I look forward to the day when I’ll see him again.

Lessons from Grandpa

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When I first switched to a gluten free lifestyle, I was honestly afraid of going to a restaurant. How would I know what was safe and what wasn’t? Through the years I have learned a lot and know the menus (especially at the restaurants in my home town) pretty well.

But when you go on vacation, the anxiousness returns.

I am here to tell you – there is NO need to be anxious about food allergies when vacationing at Walt Disney World! Disney does a fantastic job of making sure that those of us with food allergies are well taken care of and can eat with ease. Here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way!

Tell Disney about your allergy. When making dining reservations at a table service location, let the cast member (or your travel agent) know about your allergy so they can make a note in the reservation. I also tell the cast member when we check into the restaurant again, just to be sure. They will make sure that your waiter/waitress is aware of your allergy, and the chef will be notified as well! If you are eating at a counter service location, ask for a manager. They will bring you a binder that explains what foods are safe, and they will make sure your food is not contaminated along the way!

Look over the menus. The great thing about dining at a Disney restaurant is that the chef will let you know what appetizers, entrees and desserts are safe – or they may even make your own special entree! For example, there was an entree I wanted to try, however it was not fully gluten free. The chef made me my own gluten free version of it and it was fabulous! However, do keep in mind that there are some foods they just can’t modify. The good news is, you will always have more options than just a salad!

When in doubt, ask or pass. Sometimes you will be at a location where a chef or manager is not readily available. (Think snack kiosk.) In those situations, use caution. Pass on the foods that may contain gluten and have a snack you know is safe. If a cast member is available, ask for a manager who can verify allergens for you. Another option is to get a list of safe foods from specialdiets@disneyworld.com a few weeks prior to your vacation!

Bring your own snacks. I always bring my own granola bars for a quick snack. That way I don’t have to wait to find out if something is okay for me to eat – especially since I get cranky when I’m hungry! Another great option is Garden Grocer. This company allows you to purchase groceries prior to your arrival, then they deliver them to your resort! Bell Services will even keep the refrigerated items cold until you are in your room to put them in the fridge! We often get juice, milk, yogurt and fruit so that we have snacks available in our room.

Enjoy! The best part of eating at Walt Disney World is that they make delicious gluten free foods! Gluten free bread is brought to your table (with your own special plate of butter). For breakfast, you can have gluten free waffles, gluten free muffins, gluten free bagels and even gluten free donuts! There are fantastic gluten free desserts as well – my favorite part! I’ll admit – it’s hard to come home and not have those foods brought directly to me! (Most of these special gluten free products are usually Udi’s or OMG…It’s Gluten Free.)

You won’t have to worry when eating at Walt Disney World with a food allergy. Paying special attention to your concerns, the chefs, wait staff and managers will ensure your food safety. And you’ll get to enjoy foods that you normally bypass at home!

What is your favorite Walt Disney World food item?

Tips for Eating Gluten Free at Disney is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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As a math major, I like working with numbers. Calculus was my favorite math class. I love looking at the data from my Garmin. Yes, I’m a geek.

So it’s no wonder I have often wondered how many steps I take throughout the day.

As part of the Verizon Health & Fitness Voices program, we received a Fitbit One – which I was very excited about! I have heard some great things about it and was anxious to try it out.

This particular Fitbit is very small, similar to the size of a flash drive. There is a clip that you insert the Fitbit into and clip it on your pocket throughout the day. The display keeps track of the steps you take, along with how many flights of stairs you go up, distance you’ve moved and calories burned. (Do note that the stats are not 100% accurate. For example, calories are based off the weight you enter when you set up your account and when I ran a half marathon, it said I ran 11.81 miles.) There is a flower that grows as you move more, and you may even get a few messages along the way!

Another great feature is that it monitors your sleep at night. You can keep it clipped to your pants, however it also comes with a soft wristband that you can put it in. (This is actually better as your arm movement is more accurate in tracking the times you wake up throughout the night.) You start the timer, then it will monitor your sleep. It’s quite amazing how many times you wake up without realizing it!

Night before a race.

Night after a race.

To keep track of all of this data, you can create an account at fitbit.com and sync your device. It displays your daily activity as well as your sleep patterns! Various badges can be earned based on your activity. You can also connect with friends who have Fitbit devices – another social media platform! Even better, there is a Fitbit app for your phone, so you can check your stats and connect with your friends anytime!

Fitbit.com Dashboard – Day of a race

So the question remains – is the Fitbit right for you?

I believe it depends on your goals. For those who are looking to lose weight or monitor their sleep – absolutely! It is a great way to keep track of your activity throughout the day, as well as your sleeping habits. Fitness instructors, personal trainers or even doctors could also benefit from the Fitbit. It would be an excellent way to start conversations with your clients or those in your fitness class!

For me personally, it’s not the best fit. Although it is great to keep track of my activity throughout the day, I do have a desk job. While I try to get up and move around as much as I can, it is just not possible most of the time. Therefore, the Fitbit is a reminder of how inactive I can be at work – almost making me feel inadequate. If I had a more active job, I really could see the benefit!

I also am not a huge fan of having to clip it to your pocket. With summer season approaching, I love wearing sundresses and am at a bit of a loss on how to wear the Fitbit One, especially at work. (You can also clip the Fitbit to your bra, but that would not be appropriate for a work environment.) In this case, I would be interested in the new Fitbit Flex, as it is a bracelet that you wear on your wrist. A definite plus to the Fitbit family is the variety of options available!

As for the active portion of my life, it is fun to see the activity level rise as I work out! However some of my activities, such as strength training and sessions on the spin bike, do not show up (as well) on the Fitbit. Definitely something to keep in mind. I do find the sleep tracking fascinating! I would definitely be more interested in how exactly it monitors your sleep habits, and am definitely looking forward to comparing my sleep habits throughout the next few months!

For those who would like a gadget to monitor their steps and sleep, the Fitbit One is a great option. As with all purchases, it would be wise to take a look at what your goals are first, then determine if this is the right purchase for you! (If you have more specific questions, don’t hesitate to ask!)

How would you use a Fitbit in your life? 

Is a Fitbit For You? is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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Since this was my last big race until fall, I set a goal and was going to work toward it. Last year, I crashed and burned during this race, so more than anything – I was determined not to let that happen again. All spring long I have working on getting faster as well as not taking walk breaks during my long runs. The River Bank Run was my time to put those two aspects together.

Brent, Jessica (who runs with me each week) and my mom went to the expo on Friday to get our packets. My mom was going to be doing the 5K walk, and Jessica (along with her friend Trisha) were going to be my pacers.

We got something to eat, then headed back to our room. Fun story – Brent and I were upgraded to a suite! It was a fun extra, although only staying one night and being gone most of the morning, we didn’t exactly utilize it that much.

Soon it was bedtime with a semi-early wake up call. The weather had been in the 70s all week, but for race morning, it was looking to be upper 40s – PERFECT running weather! Even though it was chilly at the start, I decided to go with my Under Armour Victory tank top, Brooks Glycerin shorts and Brooks Pure Cadence shoes. I knew a few miles in (and especially at the end), I’d be thankful for what I had chosen. I also taped up my shins with KT Tape and was hoping that would do the trick.

We met up with Trisha and headed to the start area. We saw my cousin Sherra (in the orange) start her 10K race!

We watched the handcyclists and wheelchair athletes take off, then it was our turn! My goal going into this race was to finish under 2:30. I knew that was around a 9:40 pace, so my plan was to start off a little slower (but not too slow), run through the whole thing and do my best on the hills. Jessica and Trisha (who are normally much faster than me) were there to encourage and push me, which I was admittedly nervous for.

We took off and I watched my Garmin the first mile to make sure I didn’t go out too fast (something I do at races a lot). In my head, I knew I wanted to be conservative, yet wanted to have some buffer room on the hills. We ran through downtown, then made our way to the bike trail along the river. Thankfully the course didn’t have to change, but you could definitely see remnants of the flooding. Dirt was everywhere, trees were down and there were some pretty potent smells from time to time.

Since I had run this course before, I knew what was coming. (This helps so much!!!) We had aid stations every 1.5 miles and the weather felt great. Unlike last year where I overheated, that wasn’t an issue at all. The bike trail was a little crowded (and the ground was slanted), but we were still keeping a very steady pace. Around mile 6, I knew we were getting close to turning around, but I was feeling good and ready to tackle the hills.

At mile 7, we crossed over the river and were greeted by a lot of FANTASTIC spectators! We headed on another road and I knew the hills were coming. I knew now was the time to get a little extra energy, so took a few sport beans with water just prior to the halfway point.

Now, at the halfway point they have these large signs that say ’1/2 Way to Finish’. There were 3 ladies running together who were trying to get a photo of themselves with the sign in the background. I knew they couldn’t get that huge sign, so took a few seconds to take their photo. Sure my mile split wasn’t great due to that, but I didn’t care. That’s what the running community does – we help and encourage one another!

I caught back up with Jessica and Trisha and started to prepare mentally for the hills. Since that is where I crashed last year, I kept trying to push those thoughts out of my head. However, I couldn’t, for the life of me, remember how long the hills were for, or how large they were. Apparently I blacked that part out of my head! (For the record, they were a good 5 miles long, however only a couple were large. Most of them were rollers, but still required mental and physical focus.)

I pushed through the first set very well, but then at mile 10 was starting to feel it in my legs. Jessica looked at me at the 10 mile mark and said, “We’re going to hit your goal!” I looked at her and said I was starting to feel it. It was at that point she said something to me that stuck with me the rest of the race, “It’s all mind over matter. You can do this.” It was true – it was all mental. My legs were feeling strong. I knew I could do this.

We continued on the hills for another couple miles, but when we saw the skyline in view, I knew it would be flat roads from there. (I looked down at 13.1 miles and saw I PR’d my half time by 10 seconds!) We still had 2.5 miles left, so I took some more sport beans and was ready to hit my goal.

We ran by John Ball Park Zoo, then through some area neighborhoods back toward downtown. I’ll be honest, those last 1.5 miles were probably the worst of the entire race. My legs were starting to hurt. My mind was starting to play games. And I knew there was still a ways to go. I kept repeating, “Mind over matter. You are strong. You can do this.” Soon mile 15 came into view, and I tried my hardest to push it that last 1/2 mile.

Then we saw some familiar faces! My cousin Sherra (along with her mom, aunt and brother-in-law) were cheering along the course! Seeing their smiling faces gave me the boost I needed and I tried to kick it into gear.

Until the hill just 1/4 mile from the finish line. (Honestly race directors, let’s re-think this!!!) I focused on the finish line as best I could, then pushed it. I knew I was cutting it close to my goal and I did NOT want to miss it by seconds. I looked at the clock at the finish line, then my watch, and pumped my fist in the air because I knew I hit my goal!

I saw my mom and Brent, gave them a huge smile and thumbs up. I had hit my goal. I killed the hills. I was a happy girl!

We got our medals, water and food and met up with Brent and my mom. Smiles were everywhere!

Overall, this race was fantastic! It was the exact opposite of last year and was the confidence booster I needed. My splits were extremely consistent. I ran the entire race (except quick walks through the water stations). I conquered the hills. And I hit that time goal. I am strong. I am getting faster. Training does pay off.

My pacers were fantastic!!! Trisha stayed a good 10-20 feet ahead of us the whole time. I’ll admit that at first I just wanted to tell her to take off and run her own race. But as she stayed there the majority of the race, she was a source of encouragement. She pushed me the entire race as I made sure I stayed behind her (or caught up to her as needed). Thanks Trisha!

Jessica stayed by my side the majority of the race which was extremely comforting. Having run with her the past few months, it was fun to run with her this race! We did both have our earphones and music on, but still running by each other’s side was just what I needed. She gave encouragement when I needed it and pushed me at the end! Thank you Jessica!

I’m excited for this summer as Jessica, Trisha and I train for our fall marathons! Having these ladies by my side, for the long runs especially, will be wonderful. I have learned that having someone (or multiple people) to run with just makes the time go by faster. Not to mention, these ladies push me when it comes to speed work!

I also am excited to work on my speed some more! My fall marathon will be another time goal, and hopefully I’ll have as consistent of splits as I did this race! The course is very similar to what River Bank Run was, so I’ll be sure to include hill training as well.

Overall a great race, and I couldn’t be happier!

What mantras do you say to yourself when things get tough?

2013 5/3 River Bank Run 25K is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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Sunday, May 5 – 6 mile run & 45 minute walk

Monday, May 6 – 45 minutes elliptical & Ab strength training

Tuesday, May 7 – 3.1 mile run & Arm/Ab strength training

Wednesday, May 8 – 3 mile run & Ab strength training

Thursday, May 9 – 45 minutes spin bike & Ab strength training

Friday, May 10 – Rest

Saturday, May 11 – River Bank Run 25K

The weather has been very summer-like lately, however we did get a cold front this weekend. Thank goodness as that meant nearly perfect running weather for the River Bank Run! Great running weather, fantastic pacers and strong legs made for a nearly 16 minute PR, crushing the hills AND hitting my goal! Proof that training does pay off! Don’t worry – you’ll get a full recap tomorrow!

Happy Mother’s Day to all the special moms out there! I know I couldn’t ask for a better mom!

What exciting thing did you do this weekend?

Weekly Workout Roundup – Week 19, 2013 is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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Yet the day before a race can be pretty intense. Take a look at the thoughts I tend to have the day before a race.

Have I been hydrating enough?

What’s the weather going to be like? I know I’ve checked 47 times today, but I better check again.

Is that an ache I feel? Why is my knee suddenly hurting? 

Maybe that bowl of ice cream last night wasn’t the greatest idea.

I still need to pack. Good thing I’m a pro at this.

When are the hills on the course? Must mentally prepare for those hills.

Another co-worker is sick? Not the week before a race! Keep those germs far away.

Garmin charger. Don’t forget the Garmin charger.

I better check the weather again.

Should I run with a water bottle or not?

What are the odds this race is worse than last year’s? Oh that was horrible. It couldn’t possibly be worse, right?

PureFit bar. Cannot forget the PureFit bar. And swedish fish for after the race.

Watch where you step, the last thing you need is to fall today.

Remember you have run this course before. That makes a huge difference.

Need to look at the menu for the restaurant we’re eating at tonight. Choose wisely.

Run with your phone this time. We all know how those races turn out when you can’t get ahold of Brent.

What was I thinking with my goal time? Maybe I should adjust it. No wait, you are stronger than you think you are. Stick with it.

Water. Drink more water.

I’m sure the weather has changed. Better go check.

I’m telling you, your mind can play some tricks before a big race! Although I have been struggling with shin splints and had a not-so-good race a couple weeks ago, I’m feeling ready to tackle the 25K. Yes, I have a goal in mind – but two beautiful ladies have decided to run with me this race, which I am really excited about! Hopefully they can push me and I’ll hit that goal with time to spare.

What consumes your mind before a race or event?

Thoughts Before Race Day is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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With the announcements of the Dumbo Double Dare, Dopey Challenge and Glass Slipper Challenge, many runners have one item of business on their minds:

Creating their running outfit!

It’s no secret that runDisney events bring out some incredible (and even a few crazy) outfits. From large tutus at the Tinker Bell and Princess events to visions of your favorite super heroes, the costumes are a lot of fun to watch! The creativity alone is remarkable.

I must admit, I have yet to run in a full-on costume. And I’ll be honest, I have no intention of wearing a tutu or full costume. However, I do like the idea of mimicking your favorite character through your running outfit! Even for those of us who have no sewing abilities, it IS possible to create a running outfit!

Just a sampling of character options to consider!

So here are some ways you can create your running outfit for a runDisney (or any other) event!

Decide which character or persona you would like to be. Is it one of the Fab 5 – Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald or Pluto? How about a Princess? Maybe it’s a super hero. Or even a Muppet or Star Wars character. How about someone in the Pixar family? There are MANY options, but I would imagine that at least 5 come to your mind right away!

Take a look at various screenshots (or even watch the movie). Once you have chosen your character (or characters), do a little research. Watch the movie. Google some photos. Most characters have a few options when it comes to outfit designs. For example, think of Cinderella. There is her ‘rags’ look as well as her blue gown for the ball. Two different outfit options for you to choose from!

Come up with a SIMPLE outline. After you pick the character and outfit, take a close look at the color scheme. Create a simple sketch with base colors and possible accessories. The key is that it doesn’t have to be exact – just give the idea of the character you are trying to emulate.

Start looking for tops and bottoms. It’s time to go shopping! One thing to remember is that not all tops and bottoms are created the same. If you have brands you like, check out those for your color scheme first. Raw Threads has great tops that highlight princesses, villains and more. Team Sparkle skirts are very popular for the bottoms (but keep in mind you need to wear boy/compression shorts or capris underneath them), however shorts or other bottoms work too. Also, do NOT worry about the color of your shoes – believe me, at mile 10 (or 20), the last thing you will care about is if your shoes match your outfit. You would rather have happy feet!

Work on accessories. Your top and bottom will set the stage, but the accessories will really highlight the character you are becoming! Look back through the movie and photos. What accessories does your character wear? Necklace, added material, belt, tiara, etc? (Maybe even a sidekick like Flounder or Pascal!) Just make sure these accessories won’t be difficult to run with!

Test out your outfit! This is hands down the most important part! Be sure to take a test run in your outfit, preferably a longer run. If you are worried about what your neighbors will think, take it for a spin on the treadmill. This is the time you check what areas scratch, move, or just plain don’t work. It’s better to find out now versus halfway through the race!

A sneak peek of one of Kristen’s Dumbo Double Dare running outfits! Any guesses on the character she is trying to become?

The best part about runDisney events is that it doesn’t matter how creative you are with your outfit – there will be smiles on everyone’s faces! If you do decide to go all out, have fun with it! I am definitely looking forward to runner-watching throughout my next few runDisney challenges.

So the question remains – will I be creating running outfits for my upcoming races? You’ll just have to wait and see!

What character would you love to run as?

Creating Your runDisney Outfit is a post from: Running Toward the Prize

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