Summer running

Running counts as travel, right? Well, Cole and I decided to sign up for 2 running races this summer: Dam to Dam and Warrior Dash. Dam to Dam is 20K race (12.4 miles) in Des Moines on June 4th-- I've done it several times before, although not in the past couple years, so I'm excited to do it again! It's a pretty long race, but lots of fun and very rewarding when you finish. There is also tons of food and beer at the end of the race, plus the Des Moines Farmer's Market is right there too! Anyways, we have a 9-week running plan from Runner's World to prepare us for the almost half-marathon distance. More on that later! 


We also signed up for the Warrior Dash, a 3.28 mile race with some crazy obstacles along the way, such as jumping over fire, climbing a cargo net, scrambling through mud under barbed wire, and more. Check out the link above for more info on that race. That one takes place in Channahon, Illinois on June 19th. That's about a 2 1/2 hour drive from Iowa City. After Dam to Dam, hopefully Warrior Dash won't seem too bad!


In other exciting workout-related news, I have 2 pairs of new shoes for working out and running. I plan on continuing to do P90X in my Vibram FiveFingers Bikila LS shoes. The LS just means they have laces, as opposed to the regular Bikila which just have a velcro strap. I have narrow feet so they fit well. They are great for working out! It really feels like you are barefoot, but with a little extra support. I haven't run outside in them yet, but I'd like to start soon. 

My Vibram Bikila LS shoes

I also have a new pair of Nike Free Run shoes. These are great too-- not exactly like running barefoot, but very light as well! I ran in these the other day for the first time, and they were extremely comfortable. My ankles hurt a little afterwards, but I think the shoes are just working different muscles than I'm used to. 

My custom Nike Free shoes

Between the two races and continuing P90X, it looks like I have my work cut out for me this spring/summer!