work out wednesday

Instead of Work It Wednesday like last week, this time I've got Work Out Wednesday - partly because I spend a good couple of hours every day in my workout clothes (always for a walk with Ginger first thing, then for exercise almost daily - either running or going to the gym, then for as long as it takes me to get around to a shower afterward). And partly because somewhere along the way I have become a bonafide runner...

Today I set my new record distance: 11 miles. Seriously!? I cannot believe I can run that far. My goal for the year was to run a 5k race, which I did (quite handily, I thought) at the beginning of May. Since then I've just kept running. I'm not very competitive, but I am goal oriented, so I feel compelled to go  a little farther or a little faster than last time, and now here I am, breaking last week's 10-mile record.
 
Even so, 5-6 weeks ago I thought the idea of me + half-marathon was quite crazy. I knew I could do 7 miles, but come on - 13.1 miles is nuts. And now I'm very seriously considering signing up for one this fall. A big help is that I've really developed an enjoyment for running (another thing I never thought I'd say). I always thought running outside was so hard, especially with what I've dubbed the 3Hs of Cincinnati: heat, humidity, and hills. But it gradually became easier - those Hs probably helped with my conditioning too - and now that it's more autumn-like weather, it feels so great to get outside and enjoy some crisp air, bright sunshine, changing leaves, kids walking to school. Plus distance running gives a girl a lot of time to just think, which has been nice.

top, shorts, shoes: Nike (via Dick's Sporting Goods, all clearance)

Anyway, usually I look something like this when I head out. I'm partial to Nike workout clothes mostly because I like how they look, but also I like the fit - and the nice sweat-wicking material is a must. I've been quite pleased with my last several pairs of Nike running shoes too - they're so comfortable I could walk all day in them. Or run 11 miles. Ha. I get everything at TJ Maxx, outlets, or on clearance at sports stores, so it doesn't usually match this perfectly...

 pants: New Balance via TJMaxx; top: North Face Outlet;

headband and gloves: Target ($2, so I don't care how sweaty they get!)

Now as the mornings get colder, I'm trying to figure out the best way to dress for a run - it's not hard to keep your core warm when moving that much, but the air is rather chilly on my skin and extremeties - so I've accumulated a few warmer items recently though haven't needed this whole ensemble together quite yet. I like to keep my ears warm too, but a hat is too hot, so I improvised by cutting a headband out of a $2 hat from Target until I can find a real one in stock somewhere. Snazzy, right?