The Perfect Post Run Food

This week has been crazy at work. The weather here in Chicago has been beautiful all week and I've missed the sunshine both days so far (arrive at work while its still dark, leave when the sun is setting). I woke up this morning thinking it was Thursday. At least I was only 1 day off.

Last night I wanted to get out there and enjoy the temperatures, even though I couldn't enjoy the sunlight. I had a speed workout planned to do 6x400m (last week I did 5x400m) with a 400m recovery jog inbetween. I <3 the interval function on my Garmin because it helps keep track of my average pace per split. Last week I was shocked to see that my splits were in the 6's. Doing the workout again this week, I see more 6's that are even lower!

6:07
6:00
6:19
6:02
6:25
6:10

(Maybe next time I'll have 1 in the 5's?) I didn't feel great during this workout. I was tired and definitely felt like I was going slower than last time. I didn't have the best pre-workout fuel and I think that is part of the reason why I felt so tired. (I worked late and grabbed Cosi on the way to the train. Apparently the Hummus & Veggies sandwich isn't substantial enough for a hard workout. I should have known this and gone with the Subway Veggie Patty instead. Now I know for next time.) My very first post talked about some stomach issues I was having, so I at least learned to not eat chips and guacamole before running. Now I also know to add Cosi veggie options to the list. Although, when Lent is over and I go back to eating meat, maybe a sandwich with some meat would have a different effect? Have you struggled with pre-run fuel while out running errands or working late? What is your favorite "restaurant" pre-run fuel?

Before I went out, I knew the workout I wanted to do but I didn't really think about the total distance. Since I've newly been including a warmup and cooldown to go with my speedwork, this adds additional time and miles. I thought I would be gone for only 3 miles but it ended up being 4. I'm not going to complain but it just didn't really seem like 4 miles. Have you ever had that happen before?

No worries on the post-run food. I have that covered.

I have to add hearts to all my food photos now

Thanks to everyone that has recommended Peanut Butter & Co products in the past. I joined the bandwagon and am never getting off. Their Dark Chocolate Dreams is just as delicious as it sounds.

I had a new running top that I was very anxious to try. It was in the clearance section at Target (for $9) and it was a BRIGHT orange.  I really liked it a lot. It was fitted but not too snug. The perfect size. C9 for Target does it again! If you're interested, the shirt can be found on their website here. I didn't take a photo because the orange didn't show up properly on my camera. :(

P.S. Have you entered my Road ID Prize Pack Raffle yet? Only $3 per entry and it is open to anyone anywhere in the U.S. or Canada!