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Tag: runDisney

3 ways to celebrate star wars day

3 Ways To Celebrate Star Wars Day

May 3, 2020

May the 4th be with you! It’s May and that means Star Wars Celebrations! We used to travel to Walt Disney World in May and got to experience Star Wars Day at Hollywood Studios. It’s so much fun! I have 3 ways to celebrate Star Wars Day anywhere with your family!

Disneybounding

I think out of all the character dress up opportunities, Star Wars fans go all out! I have done some Disneybounding with Star Wars for the runDisney races, visiting the parks, and also at home with Halloween and other parties we have attended.

Blue Milk Recipe

If you want to bring the magic home, you can make some blue milk from the comfort of your own kitchen easily with this dairy free recipe.

3 Ways To Celebrate Star Wars Day

Blue Milk Ingredients

  • 1 cup rice milk
  • 2 cups canned Dole pineapple
  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut Silk
  • Blue food coloring
  • 1 cup watermelon chunks
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dragon fruit flavoring drops

Blue Milk Instructions

  • Combine all of the ingredients in a blender
  • Serve chilled

Send A Message From A Galaxy Far Away

Galaxy’s Edge is a completely immersive atmosphere. I was blown away the first time I walked into the land. Star Wars fans are very passionate about their love of Star Wars. I am a Star Wars fan; but nowhere close to the level as many others.

Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge scenery was a perfect backdrop for a surprise video I was doing for my kids. I set up to FaceTime the kids from a quiet area near the Millenium Falcon. I was attending a conference and flew to Orlando prior to the family. The plan was that when I got back home from the conference, we were going to go to Hershey Park for Adrienne’s birthday. But to their surprise, they were coming down to Orlando to meet up with me!

Here’s the video of their surprise.

Galaxy’s Edge has so many amazing photography locations, apart from the main attraction, the Millenium Falcon. Every corner you turn, you can find remnants of old transport ships, droids, and cargo. This would be a perfect place to make an announcement of a recent engagement, a birth announcement or a gender reveal to name a few!

What would you announce from Galaxy’s Edge?

How are you going to celebrate Star Wars Day? Share your ideas in the comments!

runDisney Virtual Series

RunDisney Virtual Series For 2020

March 19, 2020

With so much uncertainty now with respect to races and events, you can still participate in races via the runDisney Virtual Series. runDisney has been offering these races each summer for the past five years. I participated in these virtual races when they first came out 5 years ago.

What Does The Virtual Series Include?

If you have ever participated a runDisney race in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or even the runDisney races in Paris, you know how much fun they are. Characters on the course, fireworks at the starting line, and of course the ability to run through the parks before they are open; and at the end you receive an amazing medal!

If you can’t make it for one of the races in the actual parks, you can still earn your own medal by participating in the runDisney Virtual Series. Or use the virtual 5Ks as a great way to train for runDisney or other events.

Each event takes place over each month of the summer. You can walk or run through any 3.1 mile course of your choosing in your own neighborhood, on a treadmill, or participate in a local race and use that towards your virtual run. Proof of time is NOT required to receive your participation items.

Virtual 5K – June

When you participate in the June Virtual Running Short any time between June 1 – 30, 2020, you will receive the Mad Tea Party themed finisher medal (medal photos not available at this time).

runDisney Virtual Series June Theme

When: June 1 – 30

Cost: approximately $40

Virtual 5K – July

When you participate in the July Virtual Running Short any time between July 1 – 31, 2020, you will receive the Space Mountain finisher medal (medal photos not available at this time).

runDisney Virtual Series July Theme

When: July 1 – 31

Cost: approximately $40

Virtual 5K – August

With the last run of the summer, taking place August 1 – 31, 2020, you can take home the Haunted Mansion finisher medal (medal photos not available at this time).

runDisney Virtual Series August Theme

When: August 1 – 31

Cost: approximately $40

runDisney Virtual Challenge

Should you participate in all three 5K virtual runs, you will receive each individual distance medal PLUS the Virtual Challenge medal. I hope it is shaped like an e-Ticket from the old ticket books we used to have to use for the rides in the Magic Kingdom!

runDisney Virtual Series Challenge

When: June 1, 2020 – August 31, 2020

Cost: approximately $150

What Do Participants Receive?

When you register for one of the races or the challenge, you will receive the following items:

  • Commemorative Finisher Medal
  • Downloadable Race Bib
  • Downloadable Finisher Certificate
  • A Walt Disney Records playlist on Apple Music and Spotify
  • Challenge participants will receive a runDisney Virtual Series keepsake

You will receive these items in the mail after you register for the race(s) of your choice. When you do run your race, share photos of it and include #runDisneyVirtual in your posts!

How To Register

Registration for these races begin on March 24, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. EDT on the runDisney site. You can register for just one of the races or all of the races – the Virtual Challenge.

Do you need help training? Are you new to running? Check out my blog post for tips on what to do when you want to begin running.

I can’t wait to see the medals when they are released! Will you participate in one or all of these races this year?

2020 runDisney Goofy Challenge

2020 runDisney Goofy Challenge – Part 2

February 25, 2020

If you read part 1 of my Goofy Challenge experience, this is a continuation of the 2020 runDisney marathon weekend. I was running the half marathon and the full marathon as a fundraiser for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

During the race weekend, I arrived a little earlier to give myself some time to go to the expo, attend a Cigna media event and to attend a few meet ups before the races began.

Cigna Media Event

Know Your Numbers

Every year for the runDisney Marathon weekend, Cigna, the presenting sponsor of the runDisney marathon weekend, has a meetup and event for bloggers and the media to attend. Their goal is to share the news to runners and spectators visiting the runDisney expo, that they can get free health screenings with the Cigna Health Improvement Tour.

Cigna’s Health Improvement Tour is a mobile clinic that travels around the country offering free health screening and coaching. They offer screening for four health numbers:

  • blood pressure
  • cholesterol
  • blood sugar
  • BMI

While this isn’t a replacement to your visit to your doctor, it does give you a snapshot of your current health numbers. It’s important to know your numbers so you can take measures to improve them; or continue to do what you are doing to keep them within the normal range.

What I Learned From The Pros

Cigna invited Olympic medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee and former NFL running back and philanthropist Warrick Dunn to share their approach to well-being and reaching health goals. Jackie and Warrick were also participants and guides during some of the races.

2020 runDisney Goofy Challenge Part 2

I got a lot of helpful information from what they shared with the audience regarding their challenges in sports and every day life. Just because they are professional athletes, they aren’t immune to the same challenges that we face, both mentally and physically.

Here are a few of the golden nuggets of advice that I took away from what they shared:

  • Surround yourself with mentors
  • Tell yourself you deserve to be here
  • Don’t worry about the things you cannot control
  • Give back – be a part of the solution
  • FOCUS – Focus on the goals you set for yourself
  • Know your body. What happens when there is a day where you don’t feel it? Sometimes you have to take a day off to address what is going on; otherwise, you may end up missing more than a day if you push too hard and hurt yourself.

I was feeling concerned about the warm weather that was in the forecast for both the half marathon and marathon days. But like Joyce said, you can’t worry about the things you cannot control; but I can take control and make sure to hydrate the days prior to the races.

After their presentation, Cigna had a nice lunch for us and then we had an opportunity for photos with Jackie and Warrick. I visited with a few runner friends and then took a stroll over to the Floridian for a refreshing beverage from the new Enchanted Rose Lounge.

Grand Floridian Enchanted Rose

I had been there in December during my agency training; but I really wanted to sit and enjoy the atmosphere while I was there. I also ordered the perfect drink to help keep me hydrated, the
B&B – Fresh Brewed Twinings of London® Iced Tea, Lemon, Blueberry, and Basil.

2020 runDisney Goofy Challenge Part 2

runDisney Race Expo

After enjoying my delicious drink and the view at the Floridian, I did a little shopping at Basin and then I drove over to the race expo to see the runDisney merchandise. When I went to pick up my bib the night before, it was close to closing time, so I didn’t have enough time to check out the merchandise.

This year runDisney had cute spirit jerseys. I had to choose between the navy blue and the purple jersey. Since purple is one of my favorite colors I went with that. I also picked up my traditional wine glass, magnet, key chain, and an “I Did It” shirt.

I had just enough time to grab a picture with Goofy before I went back to my hotel to change for dinner.

Pre-Race Dinner

I met up with my friend Nick for dinner with several others from his running group, some of whom I already knew. We had a nice dinner at Trattoria al Forno on the Boardwalk.

runDisney Challenge Trainers Group Dinner

I was pleasantly surprised that the pasta with bolognese sauce was very delicious for being a gluten free pasta. That’s been a challenge for me to find back home. It was a very delicious meal, and even the gluten free bread with butter was tasty.

After dinner I dropped Nick, Justin and Tom off at the new Gran Destino Tower. It was my goal to be in bed by 9:00; but I had missed it by a little bit. I laid out my clothes for the race, talked to the family via FaceTime and then got to sleep for my 2:30 wake up.

Follow along for Part 3 – the half marathon of my 2020 runDisney Goofy Challenge races, coming soon!

5 Tips For Your Best Dopey Challenge Race Experience

5 Tips For Your Best Dopey Challenge Race Experience

April 17, 2019

This year I ran my 5th consecutive Dopey Challenge. I had said that once I did five in a row that I would be ok with not doing Dopey anymore. However, I may be changing my thoughts on that because of my 2019 Dopey Challenge race experience.

The Dopey Challenge is a runDisney event where you run four races within four days. Day one is a 5K, day two is a 10K, day three is a half marathon, and day four is a marathon. Like I said, this is my 5th year running the challenge; but I have run the Walt Disney World Marathon for seven years in a row.

This year’s race was particularly hard for me. I had a lot of struggles prior to the race. I’ll have my race recap for you soon; but for now I’ll share advice on how to have your best Dopey Challenge race experience.

1. Train For The Dopey Challenge

I can’t stress enough how important that is. It sounds silly; but if you have run the runDisney races before, like me and several other runDisney runner friends of mine; you become a little cocky. We have done so many of the races, we know the course, so we assume we can do it even with little or less training. Sure, you can do it; but you will also hurt more and suffer more during and after the race because of the lack of training. Bad idea.

For my first Dopey Challenge I signed up for Jeff Galloway’s e-coaching program. He personalized a training plan for me and I checked in with him regularly to discuss any issues or concerns I had throughout the training.

When doing the Dopey Challenge you have to prepare your legs to run while tired. They have to get used to running on back-to-back days. RunDisney has a training plan designed by Jeff Galloway on the runDisney website. I suggest you take a look at the training plan prior to registering because you will need to dedicate a lot of time to the training.

2. Know How To Fuel For Dopey Challenge

With the Dopey Challenge Race Experience comes a different challenge. How do you provide your body with the proper nutrition prior to the race? The races begin at 5:30 a.m.; but you have to be at the corrals for the races much earlier than that. You also don’t start at 5:30, each corral is released at different times, so you can possibly stand in your corral for up to 30 minutes before you begin running.

Test Your Nutrition During Your Training

You also need to test out your sources of fuel during your training. I used to use Gu packs and Gatorade to fuel my body. I learned that this wasn’t the best source of nutrition for me. As soon as I got finished my training run, I was running to the bathroom with gut issues.

Now I use real food as fuel on my runs. I prefer to use pretzels for the salt and carbs, skittles for sugar to my brain, and Nuun tablets in my water for electrolytes. But that’s why training is so important. You need to use that time to find what works for you in regards to your nutrition.

You also need to make sure you are getting calories in every two miles, and you have to start from the beginning of your training run. If you get behind in your fueling, you can never catch up.

Fuel During The Races

The 5K Race

This race is easy enough to get by with a banana, granola bar, or a yogurt in your hotel room prior to going to the corrals, then you may want to have another banana or gu before the race.

I typically run very slowly or walk this race if I am with my family. So I am not running it for time or speed. I can eat some toast back at my hotel and I’m fine until after the race and I can go back to my hotel to have breakfast.

The 10K Race

This is also similar to the 5K race. I need to eat a little bit more than toast back at my hotel before arriving to the race so sometimes I’ll have a banana or bring a GoGo Squeez with me to have while waiting for the start. I do that because I tend to get hungrier at this race. I’ve run this race for 6 years and each year when I smell the food near the Boardwalk Bakery my stomach starts to growl!

The Half Marathon

The Half Marathon is when your real fueling strategy starts. You will test this out while training at home; but like I said earlier; you have to start taking in your nutrition right from the first two miles.

I like to bring cereal or pretzels and have them starting at mile 2 and continue to nibble on it from miles 4 through 8. Around mile 8 I may have some sugar to help with any monkey brain I may be experiencing. When running long distances, your mind plays tricks on you because of the lack of sugar. Therefore, you should take in something like gummy life savers, gummy bears, jelly beans, etc. to help ward off the doubts and fears that start to creep in.

The Marathon

Finally, the last race of the Dopey Challenge. This race must be taken seriously. You don’t want to mess around with undertraining, not taking in the appropriate nutrition or your hydration.

When running these races in Florida in January, the weather is always very unpredictable. But one thing remains the same, you need to take in your fuel every 2 miles and you must hydrate. Even if it is cold out, hydration is important.

Again, I can’t stress enough the importance of getting your fuel on board right from the beginning. This is going to help you make it past the 20 miles mark and beyond with less distress and you will feel much stronger, confident and will have a more enjoyable race experience.

Getting The Proper Nutrition Prior To The Races

When you arrive in Florida before the races, you should immediately begin to hydrate. Make sure you are drinking at least the same amount of ounces that is equal to your body weight. This is very, very important.

5 Tips For Your Best Dopey Challenge Race Experience

Your food prior to the races are also important. I have always enjoyed having the Salmon with couscous at Columbia Harbor House the night before the marathon. This past year we cooked dinner with vegetables, chicken and potatoes the night before the marathon. Pizza from Blaze in Disney Springs is also a great option. I met up with friends there one night before one of the races.

Always a good thing to note, never try something new during race weekend. You don’t want to go out and have a Mexican dinner prior to a big race, if that is not something you are used to or have done at home during your training. Err on the side of caution and choose foods that you know won’t upset your stomach the next day.

3. Sleep And Rest Prior To Each Race

What do you need to know about sleeping for races? You need to know that you can’t stay up late at the parks and expect to have a good race the next day.

One of the challenges with running the Dopey Challenge is being there with family or friends and wanting to play at the parks during the day and then you have to wake up at 2:00 a.m. to get ready and drive or take the bus to the starting line.

I have been very diligent about having a 9:00 bedtime when I am running the Dopey Challenge. My family knows that and we stay in a hotel with separate bedrooms so I can go to bed and everyone else can still be awake without disturbing me.

Get to bed early, try to stay off your feet, especially the days before the half and full marathons. I can’t stress that enough. If you plan the trip like I do, we save days after the marathon to go play at the parks.

4. Be Prepared For Any Type Of Weather

You can refer to my Dopey Challenge packing list for help preparing for the trip. With the races taking place in January, the weather in Florida can go from one extreme to the other. Several years ago it was 30 degrees for the marathon, and last year there were heat warnings. Even if you are watching the weather weeks prior to the event, you should ALWAYS pack for anything.

Dopey Challenge Packing List

It’s hard to train for the extreme conditions depending on where you live. But as long as you do the training, pack and dress appropriately for the weather, you will at least be more comfortable on race day.

One important note to share is that it is hard to find clothing for cold weather in Florida, especially if you are staying on property and don’t have a car. So keep that in mind and be sure to pack gloves, hand warmers and extra layers. You should also make sure to have rain gear with you as well.

5. Enjoy The Races

This is Disney after all! You signed up for the Dopey Challenge for a reason. So that’s why it’s important to enjoy each race. Stop for pictures at the character stops. Especially during the 5K and 10K races.

If you have a friend or friends you are running with, that makes the races even better! If you don’t have a friend, you can easily make some on the course! Eventually you will begin to see the same people while you are on the course and they typically don’t mind chatting throughout the race to help pass the time. Sometimes the best friendships are made while going through a difficult challenge, like a marathon!

Running Goals for 2019
Nick and I have played tag along the marathon course for several years in a row!

Depending on my corral placement, I like to get as many pictures done during the shorter races so that I stop less during the marathon. In the past few years I have been in the last corral. What this means is that I have less time to stop because I will be closer to the back of the pack and the balloon ladies.

The balloon ladies are the peacekeepers from the time the last person crossing the starting line. If you are with the balloon ladies, you would have to maintain a 16:00 per mile pace throughout the entire race so that you wouldn’t get swept. When you fall behind them, then you will be pulled from the course and put on a bus to the finish line.

I have outrun the balloon ladies and have also had to chase the balloon ladies in the past; but that was because I was having TOO much fun on the race course with Team Shenanigans. And I was totally ok with that. But you typically don’t want to be in that situation.

Will You Be Registering For The Dopey Challenge in 2020?

Like I mentioned in the beginning I have to decide what I want to do this year. Of course having 2020 as an anniversary year for the Goofy Challenge, I want to sign up for that. Then my logic says, when if I am going to do the half marathon and the full marathon, then I might as well add the 5K and 10K because those are easy enough to do.

Since my schedule allows for me to be flexible with my travel, I can arrive a few days earlier than my family, and rest while they aren’t there. So if you can’t tell, I am already talking myself into this race! Will you be signing up for any of the races?

5 Tips For Your Best Dopey Challenge Race Experience
Running Goals for 2019

My Running Goals for 2019

February 20, 2019

Now that I already have the 48.6 miles from the runDisney Dopey Challenge under my belt for this year, I am working on my running goals for 2019.  Each year I set goals for which races I want to run locally or in different states.  I don’t have a Fall marathon on my schedule.  I didn’t get into the New York City Marathon this year so I have to consider an option for a different marathon or to decide if I even want to run a Fall marathon.  I do know that I am going to participate in several 5K races and a handful of half marathons in Connecticut.

Upcoming Races

My son and I will be running the Hartford Marathon Foundation Lucky Challenge. He told me he wanted to run these races with me again, and he also wanted to see the medals. Looks like he has inherited a little bit of the bling fever from me!

Where Am I Running To Next

We will run four 5k races in four towns of Connecticut.  These back to back race weekends lead up to St. Patrick’s Day for the final race in the state’s capital.  These races are a lot of fun and we get dressed up in St. Patrick’s Day accessories.

We don’t run fast but we enjoy the time driving to the races, running the races, the great swag, seeing my friends, and even the post race corn beef sandwiches.

Running Goals for 2019

What Are My Goals?

More Half Marathons

I am planning to get a decent proof of time for any future runDisney races. I am training for, and running the Cheshire Half Marathon in April. That is where I have had my best half marathon finish times. It is also the location of my very first half marathon.  I’m also planning on doing the Cape Cod and Hartford Half Marathons.  I may consider the Hershey Half Marathon as well this year.

Incorporate Speed Work Into My Training

It’s going to take some work and dedication to increase my speed for my next half marathon in April. I want to get a finish time between 2:15 a 2:30. It’s a big push goal for me.

But in order to get faster you have to do the cadence drills like Jeff Galloway recommends.  I trained with Jeff Galloway with his e-coaching for my first Dopey Challenge.  I found his training plan to be spot on and I successful with finishing my first and now fifth Dopey Challenge.

Hit The Hills

Yea hills are no fun. But it is a nice change for your body to push yourself up the hills. You need the challenge and it will ultimately make you stronger.  Here are some tips on how to begin running and including it as a part of your lifestyle.

Hit The Gym

You can also incorporate cross training that includes squats and runner lunges that Fitz Kohler offers.  She has great exercise programs dedicated to just runners of all abilities.

How To Register For A Disney Race

Registration for next January’s races opens up on April 19th so I have a little over a month to decide. I don’t know if this year it will sell out. Last year it did not. To register for a runDisney race or to see other runDisney races, visit www.rundisney.com.  During the summer runDisney also does a virtual 5K series. I participated in the first year. Last year the theme was on the Incredibles along with the release of their new movie. I wonder what this year’s theme will be!

Will I Do Dopey Again?

I really don’t know how to answer that! I want to…. so I guess between now and when the registration opens I have to make some decisions and do a reality check. I should also talk with the friends of mine that were freaking out along with me just before the race weekend.

I did have such a great race this year. Despite my fears, I surprised myself with my strong finish. I’ll do some soul searching and think about my intentions while I continue to remain consistent with my weekly running and cross training schedule.

Running Goals for 2019

What races are you running this year? Share them in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!

My Running Goals for 2019

What to Pack for Marathon Weekend

runDisney Dopey Challenge Packing List

January 7, 2019

Weather Conditions For Marathon Weekend

For the past three years, the weather in Florida in January has been quite unpredictable.  That’s why it is important to know what to put on your Dopey Challenge packing list.  I am providing my packing advice for the Dopey Challenge because it includes all races (except the kid races).  

The first year I ran my first marathon in January of 2013, the temperature was in the mid-80’s with humidity.  The past two years we started the 5K with temperatures 30 degrees or below.  Then each day it got warmer little by little. 

Two years ago, the half marathon was cancelled due to thunderstorms in the area where the volunteers would have been.   I have even heard the stories of how there was sleet and ice at the water stops in 2010.  So now I pack for ALL weather conditions! 

Organize Your Clothes For Each Race

Dopey Challenge Packing ListWhen I run the Dopey Challenge I have a costume for each race.  I place them in zip lock back along with the underwear, bra, socks, compression shorts, and accessories I will need for that race.  This also helps to keep each day organized so when I need to get the next race day laid out, the costume and accessories are all together and easily accessible.  I am also including cold weather clothes with each race outfit. 

Keep Your Race Gear With You

I also pack all race gear, costumes and shoes in my carry on bag when I fly.  That is a must for any race that I run.  I can live without clothes and my makeup; but I can not run without MY GEAR.  

Dopey Challenge Packing List

Also when checking into the hotel the race gear bag is always in my sight.  I don’t want to take any chances of it getting misplaced accidentally.  

What to pack for each race

Running Essentials

The basic running essentials are the items you trained in back home.  On race day is not the time to try out something you haven’t trained with.  You will need one of these for every race.  The essentials include:

  • Socks
  • Compression socks
  • Underwear
  • Sports bra (nipple guards for men)
  • Compression shorts
  • Running shoes
  • Garmin/Running Watch
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Visor
  • Braces or KT tape for problem areas
  • Glide

Running Costume Accessories

If you are wearing a costume you need to consider packing the following into separate baggies:

  • Sparkle skirt or bottoms
  • Top
  • Socks/Compression tights or leggings
  • Wings/headpiece/jewelry
  • Wig
  • Hair clips or bows

Running Accessories

If you run with music or special gear don’t forget to pack those into a separate baggie to keep everything organized

  • Music player and charger
  • Headphones and charger
  • Sunglasses
  • Fuel belt
  • Fuel (Gus, chews, gels, food, etc.)
  • Spi belt 
  • Water bottle

Weather Gear

Running Clothes for Weather

 

To be prepared for all-weather conditions, I pack the following extra items to have just in case:

  • Capri running tights
  • Fleece lined running tights
  • Regular running tights
  • Short sleeve shirts (layering pieces)
  • Long sleeve shirts
  • A throwaway sweatshirt and/or shirt
  • A winter hat
  • Gloves
  • An extra zip up hoodie
  • A bathrobe works very well as a warm layer and easy to shed once the race starts
  • Fleece towel from Wal-Mart that you can easily toss
  • I have seen runners with a towel or blanket from the hotel!

Weather Running Accessories

Without knowing FOR SURE if the weather is going to be what they truly predict, we do have to plan for anything.  Especially if you have run the races in the past two years.  I now will be packing the following additional items just in case.  Even if the forecast shows a perfect 70 degrees and sun all week, I don’t want to take my chances.

I pack the following portable items with me as essentials on race day to have at the race start and finish.

  • Rain Poncho – you can purchase them at Rite-Aid for $1.00 each.  They are folded up nice and small so you can keep it in your race belt.
  • Heat Wrap – The foil mylar thermal blankets you get at the end of races are also sold in stores.  They are usually in the camping section.  I purchased them in bulk on Amazon and have plenty.  I sometimes bring extras with me on race morning in case my friends need one.
  • A plastic bag (grocery bag).  I use this bag on race morning to carry my phone, snacks, water, banana and whatever else I may need that morning.  Then just before the race starts I empty it in the garbage and squish up the bag and tuck it in my race belt.
    • This bag becomes very useful at the end of the marathon when you have your medal(s), a bottle of water or Power Ade, banana, snack box, heat shield and/or cooling towel.
    • It’s especially important should you need to go to the bathroom.  You can leave it all in the bag outside the potty!
  • A Trash bag – If the forecast is sounding like heavy rain, Disney will still start the race.  Grab some large trash bags from the hotel and wear them as a poncho on race morning.  Do your best to stay as dry as you can while you are standing in the corrals waiting.  If it is raining hard on race morning you can wrap your shoes in bags to keep them somewhat dry.
  • Hand Warmers – you can load up on them now at Target in the dollar section or Home Depot sells them in boxes.  Again another compact item that you wouldn’t be sorry you brought with you just in case.
  • Gloves – They don’t sell a lot of gloves in Florida.  It’s not something you can find easily.  Two years ago we noticed socks all over the side of the road during the marathon.  People were using socks for gloves.  Since it was so cold for so long they didn’t start shedding them until around mile 8.
  • Newspaper – to stuff into your shoes if they get wet at a race.  They will be dried out overnight!

The items listed above contain affiliate links.

Bag Check At The Race

Dopey Challenge Packing Tips

This is an example of bag check from the Tokyo marathon.

I left a bag at bag check for my first marathon.  Since then, I don’t really need to check one.  But some people would like their desired items after the race.  To do so, you check your bag at the race start.  Each section represents the first letter of your last name. Then you leave your items in the runDisney plastic bag (this is the only bag they will allow). 

At the end of the race they match your bib number to the bag and you can have your things.  Some people like to have the following after the race:

  • Flip flops
  • Powder
  • Deodorant
  • Dry Shirt
  • Action Wipes or baby wipes

If you follow these tips and have these items with you prior to the race start you are one step ahead of the game!  It’s better to have it with you, then to have to worry about getting a ride to a nearby store and buying throwaway clothes, which usually sell out once people see the forecast is colder than expected.  

Have a great race and I’d love to see you out on the race courses!  Check out my Facebook Page to follow along with me this week!  Please leave your instagram or Facebook page link in the comments so I can connect with more runDisney friends!

Get Faster While You Sleep

How’s Your Sleep Training Going for the Disneyland Half Marathon?

December 31, 2018

Sleep training? Why would you need sleep training? Well, sleep is one of the most important elements to your training. It is very important during the recovery phase. Unfortunately, many of us bypass sleep to get in our training runs. For instance, we may wake up earlier to run before it gets to hot out or to get those miles in before work. However, are you making it a priority to go to bed earlier to make up for that lost time?

Why Is Sleep Training Important

Antonio Williams, M.S., NASM, P.E.S, Case Management Specialist, Health Educator from Cigna says that over time your central nervous system learns what muscles will produce the most efficient movement.

He says:

While you were asleep, your mind replayed your actions. It downloaded everything that worked and didn’t work while you tried to ride the bike. After a good night’s rest (about 7-8 hours for an adult) you set out to ride the bike again. This time, you were ahead of the game. Your body recognized all the pitfalls from yesterday and adapted. You were able to balance without falling and moved on to the next phase of bike riding. Then you had another good night’s sleep and repeated the cycle of motor learning.

How much sleep do you need?

Who knew that all that went on while you were sleeping?  So your sleep can be a critical role to not only helping with your recovery, but also making you faster.  As Antonio says, 7-8 hours is a minimum for how much sleep you should get every night.  It’s important to be consistent with your bedtime – even on weekends.  And on weekends, it’s also important to get us close to your normal weekday routine so that you don’t suffer from weekend jet lag on Monday.

Helping a Soldier Readjust to a Civilian Job

Helping a Soldier Readjust to a Civilian Job

December 30, 2018

Despite being diagnosed years ago with scoliosis (a curvature of the spine), Jordan Stubblefield, age 27, used to be very physically active. In fact, he has served in the Army Reserves for over 10 years, including two recent active duty tours in Afghanistan. Now Jordan is readjusting to his full-time civilian job as a senior software developer.

Helping a Soldier Readjust to a Civilian Job
Jordan Stubblefield, military vet readjusting to a civilian job with the helop of Cigna and Achilles

However, the change to a sedentary lifestyle and sitting at a computer for long hours every day has put pressure on his spine and aggravated his scoliosis, causing severe back pain. Looking for a way to keep doing a job he enjoys, Jordan asked his employer about making some changes to his workspace.

“I was no longer physically active without the disciplined approach to exercise that full-time military service gave me. I’m sitting most of the day now. My scoliosis didn’t really bother me when I was active, but I began to get severe back pain once I found myself behind a desk every day,” said Jordan.

Jordan’s employer put him in touch with Cigna. Cigna’s vocational coaches not only help customers who have a disabling illness or injury with their return-to-work efforts, but also provide pre-disability support services to individuals who are experiencing pain or discomfort doing their day to day job tasks. The goal is to prevent the situation from escalating and reduce the likelihood of a person needing to go out on a disability claim.

Jaclyn Sphon, a Cigna vocational coach, helped facilitate with Jordan’s employer adjustments to his work station equipment and helped him reintegrate fitness back into his routine. She also offered him the opportunity to work with Achilles International through Cigna’s customer referral program. Achilles International is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities participate in athletic events. An Achilles personal trainer provided Jordan with a customized workout plan to gradually and safely increase his physical activity, strength and stamina.

“When I brought my workplace accommodation request to my employer, I had no idea of all the resources that would be made available to me through Cigna. Receiving personalized attention from my Cigna vocational coach and Achilles International has helped me get back to feeling at 100 percent and start a gym routine again,” said Jordan.

To celebrate Jordan’s progress, Cigna offered him the opportunity to participate in the Walt Disney World® 5K presented by Cigna on January 10 as a member of Team Cigna.

“For Cigna customers, participating in a race represents a healthy milestone on the road to recovery. We believe that, as you gain –and in Jordan’s case regain –physical strength, you’ll also build confidence, which can positively affect all areas of your life, including your work performance,” said Ryan Bruce, manager of the Healthy Working Life Program at Cigna. “It was an honor for the Cigna team to work with Jordan and help him readjust to a civilian job after his active service to our country.”

“It was surreal to receive an invitationfrom Cigna to participate in the 5k at Walt Disney World. It will be a first time visit for me, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to celebrate my progress in this way. I’m also incredibly grateful for all the support I received to literally get me on my feet and moving again,” adds Jordan.

Overcoming Physical Challenges to Literally Get Back on Her Feet

Overcoming Physical Challenges to Literally Get Back on Her Feet

December 30, 2018

Makeda Lovelace, age 44, from Douglasville, GA, is constantly on her feet –whether it is in her role as a mother to three lively boys or working in the hospital emergency room as a medication history specialist. So when she first began experiencing severe pain in the bottom of her right foot in October 2017, Makeda tried to ignore it so that she could keep up with her busy schedule.

However, this Airforce veteran of 17 years soon found that she couldn’t ignore the pain any longer. During a motorcade parade in support of miltary women, Makeda found she was unable to walk on that foot at all. And she was no longer able to perform her job at the hospital.

Makeda’s health care providers suggested less invasive treatments to begin with –physical therapy, accupuncture, and immbolizing the foot for several weeks –but the pain continued. Then, in Spring of 2018, Makeda underwent surgery. The successful procedure required her to stay off her foot for eight weeks to recover.

Overcoming Physical Challenges to Literally Get Back on Her Feet

“Being out on a disability claim because of my foot was so frustrating. I’m the primary income in our family of five so I was very anxious to get back to work as quickly as possible. I was surprised to learn about the support available through Cameron, one of Cigna’s vocational coaches. He helped with my recovery and getting back to work by providing insights on the types of conversations I should be having with my doctor and employer. I always looked forward to seeing Cigna’s name on my caller ID and catching Cameron up on my progress,” says Makeda.

“Cigna’s vocational coaches partner with customers like Makeda who are unable to work because of a short-term or long-term disability, and together they create a personalized program for health improvement with the primary goal of returning to work,” says Ryan Bruce, manager of the Healthy Working Life Program at Cigna. 

A Cigna vocational coach helps provide access to additional rehabilitation resources,  assess if assistive devices are needed to perform work, provide mentoring for improving physical strength and stamina, and give referrals for mental and emotional wellbeing support.  

Cameron coached Makeda on completing her physical therapy exercises in a structured way so that it was easier for her to track her progress and focus on her return-to-work goals. He also helped her make adjustments to her physical movements once she returned to work – tips that could help reduce the amount of weight on her foot. 

Cigna also offered Makeda the chance to participate in its customer referral program with Achilles International, non-profit organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities participate in athletic events. An Achilles personal trainer will provide additional support through a customized workout plan to gradually and safely increase physical activity, strength and stamina.

“For Cigna customers, participating in a race represents a healthy milestone on the road to recovery, but also independence. We believe that, as you gain physical strength, you’ll also build confidence, which can positively affect all areas of your life, including your work performance,” adds Ryan. 

Eight weeks after foot surgery, Makeda was able to return to her same position at the hospital with no restrictions.  To mark the health progress that Makeda has made over the course of a year with her foot and working towards weight loss goals, Cigna invited her to participate in the Walt Disney World® 5K on January 10 as a member of Team Cigna. 

“When I received the invitation to participate in the Disney World 5k, I couldn’t believe it. It fuels my motivation to continue to stay on a healthy track. You never realize how important work is to your life until it is prevented. You also never realize how important support is during a disability until you receive it.  It has been very comforting to me to work with Cigna and Achilles International because they understand what I’ve been dealing with,” adds Makeda.

2019 Dopey Challenge Jeff Galloway Training Run

December 29, 2018

My schedule wasn’t being very forgiving to allow me to get in my longer training runs for the 2019 Dopey Challenge.  I had projects or events I needed to be at, that was making a long distance run harder to fit in.

I train for marathons by using the Jeff Galloway method.  I have trained with his interval training method for over 6 years.  This year will be my 6th runDisney marathon, and my 5th consecutive Dopey Challenge.

What Is The Jeff Galloway Training Method

I learned of the Olympic Winner Jeff Galloway from a podcast I was listening to called the Extra Mile podcast.  I had been injured with severe shin splints because I did everything wrong as a beginner.  For some tips on how to begin running the right way, check out my blog post.

I learned from Jeff that if you follow the walk run method you will be much less prone to injury.  I tried it, and I loved it right away.  I ordered an interval timer and my actual running speed was getting faster and faster.  When I was running with intervals I had one of my best 5K finish times!

I was able to increase my distance because of this style of training, and eventually ran my first marathon!  You can set your intervals to be whatever walk/run/walk interval feels best for you and you’ll be amazed at how good you feel after a run!

It also allows anyone of any age to begin running.  Since you are in charge of what makes you feel best while you are out there, you can begin running.  Jeff Galloway also has many books about running for all ages and goals.

2019 Dopey 13 Mile Training Run

The 2019 Dopey Challenge is being held a week later than it usually does, so that gives me a little peace of mind that I have an extra week to squeeze in a few more training runs.  I wanted to have my 13 miles run completed prior to the weekend.  I had to get some work done in the morning first, and before I realized it, it was almost 12:00.

I finally got dressed and loaded up my running belt with snacks.  The hardest part was pulling away from the computer and getting out there.  The first mile was the hardest.  It always is.  My legs felt like there was no juice in them to carry me for 13 miles!

Thankfully, it was a perfect day for running.  The temps were in the thirties and it was overcast.  After my legs were warmed up, the next several miles were better.  I took an extra walk break here and there as I made adjustments to my gear or took in some food.

2019 Dopey 13 Mile Training Run

I took a scenic route that brought me to the reservoirs and the vineyard.  Despite the large hill that leads to the vineyard, that was the only hill I really had to worry about.  Since I am so familiar with the race course and the fact that there are barely any hills for the Walt Disney World Marathon, I could get away with running on the flatter roads for this run.

With that training run under my belt, relief finally took the place of the anxiety I was starting to feel towards my training.

What I used To Fuel My Training Run

I brought a Gogo Squeez, fruit snacks, pretzel fish and skittles with me for some sugar and salt for the run.  I had an english muffin with peanut butter and my tea for breakfast so I knew my stomach wouldn’t get upset during the run.

I ate the fruit snack around mile 5, the pretzel fish around mile 9 and the Gogo SqueeZ around mile 11.  It was just enough to get me through without feeling too sluggish.  I felt my stomach growel and that’s when I knew I needed to take in the pretzel fish.

Post Run Recovery

I was lucky enough to finish in time to make a visit to my chiropractor to get adjusted.  He prefers that I see him after my long run to make sure I don’t get too compressed and to keep my hips aligned.  Dr. Pat wasn’t there but I saw his wife Jen.  I had a good stretch from her and we discussed the issue with my foot.

I have been having an issue with my right foot recently; but I think it is related to wearing heels.  I stopped wearing them and the pain has subsided.  Icing it when I feel pain seems to be helping also.  I have gone the past two weeks without issue.

Since my last run I did hurt my back when I slipped in the kitchen and fell.  It didn’t hurt at first; but the next day was pretty intense.  I got to the chiropractor two days later and although the adjustment hurt; the pain subsided after four days; which bring me to this week.

Two Weeks Prior To The Race

I don’t have back pain now; but I don’t know that I will have the time to get in a 16 mile training run before the race.  I have been talking to several friends about it.  Since we are doing the Dopey Challenge we are going to work on staying healthy and loose from now until the race.

Respect The Distance

As much as I would like to think 13 miles would be enough, it’s not.  I ran the Marine Corps Marathon without the proper training and I struggled.  It was a true lesson that you have to respect the distance.

There’s no doubt this race will be a challenge; but it’s different from the Marine Corps Marathon and I will have a lot of friends on the course.  In fact, several of my running friends are in the same boat.  Many have been suffering from injury or illness and hadn’t put in as many miles this year either.

Dopey Challenge Strategy

In past years the 5K and 10K were much slower.  I had my family with me the past two years for the 5K.  For the half marathon ,  we usually followed our 30/30 run walk intervals for the first 7 miles of the half marathon the day before.  Then we walked most of the rest of the half.   I plan to follow the same approach this year.

For the past marathons, I usually felt good throughout the entire race.  Some years I walked to with friends to help them finish, one year I got my friend through his first marathon, and last year I run in with the ballooon ladies with Team Shenanigans.  So each Walt Disney World Marathon usually starts the same; but the finish is always different.

I am hoping to have a healthy finish this year.  I’ll dig deep on Oceola Parkway, one of the most mentally challenging parts of the race course.  Then when we get to ESPN Wide World Of Sports I am hoping the new tracks for the gondola will present a good distraction along with the other character stops and photo opps within the complex.

I’ll get through it and I’ll be happy to have my 5th consecutive Dopey Challenge completed.  Then it will be time to consider what my running goals will be for 2019.

Are you running any of the races during the Walt Disney World Marathon weekend?  Comment below if you’ll be there!

I’ll be sharing stories of inspiration in the upcoming days as well, watch for them!

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