Take that, 20 miles!

For those who don't know, my first 20-mile training run didn't go that well. So needless to say, I was pretty nervous about this go-round. Not only was I running this ridiculous distance alone (again), but I was also concerned about how my knees were going to hold up.

I've been going to physical therapy for a little over a month now, and it's amazing how much it has helped. The stretching and strengthening exercises for my IT bands (the root of my knee issues) have truly worked wonders. I've also been reading up on the Hanson's "less is more" training plan.

I had planned to run 18-20 miles on Saturday, but really just wanted to get through whatever my body would let me. I am SO excited to say that I made it through 20.5 miles, and I actually felt good afterward! I only stopped at mile 8 to take Gu, mile 11 to stretch for 30 seconds, mile 15 to take another packet of Gu, and mile 17 to stretch for 30 seconds. A few months ago, I would've beat myself up for stopping at all. But seeing as how I have been doing the "run a mile walk 30 seconds" plan for so long, yet didn't feel the need to do that this time (my longest run EVER), I was extremely proud of myself!

No music, no running buddy...just me and the open road. Bring it, Country Music Marathon!

20.5 miles courtesy of Casey at OrthoMemphis, a harsh ice bath, and so many people who have encouraged me throughout my training. :)

P.S. I am SO getting a shirt made like this!

There's Nothing Like Amazing Customer Service!

I posted this on my Facebook page today, but I just have to reiterate...As a customer, it's worth your while to write a testimonial or sing the praises of a company/product you love. As a company, it's not only important to produce a great product, but also to take care of your customers and provide excellent customer service. I LOVE companies that care about their customers! :)

I briefly expressed my feelings about Gu Energy Gels, having run a few half marathons. After running my longest distance of 14 miles last Saturday (with a Strawberry Banana pack) and getting through it with more energy than I ever imagined, I decided to write to the fabulous makers of Gu and share my thoughts of gratitude.

Here is what I wrote...
To Whom It May Concern:
I have always been a fan of Gu when it comes to long distance races (just completed my fourth half marathon in December) for the incredible burst of energy it gave me. However, I would never think "I need to bring a Gu pack with me on this training run or race." I would simply receive some random type of energy gel, handed out around mile 7 or 8, and I would gladly take it despite the taste or not having heard of the brand. Recently, though, I have come to rely on truly appreciate the amazing effects of Gu. During my last half marathon (St. Jude, Memphis), I received a Strawberry Banana flavor pack at mile 8. After consuming it, it felt as if I could run for another two hours! Luckily I only had another 5 miles to go. :) I got a PR at this race...1:47! I am 28 years old, and I have signed up for my FIRST full marathon: the Country Music Marathon in Nashville, TN. This past Saturday, my running partner and I ran 14 miles (my longest distance ever!). I came prepared, for the first time, with Strawberry Banana Gu. This "tasty treat" as I call it, gave me the exact amount of energy I needed to stay on pace and finish my longest distance strong. Autumn, my running buddy, said she had never seen someone so happy when eating their Gu. I think it was the combination of good flavor and knowing the amazing benefits I'd be getting from my little pack of awesomeness. I have now purchased 10 packs from Fleet Feet, all Strawberry Banana of course, for my upcoming training runs. And I know I'll be able to get through all these tough distances thanks to Gu. So, I just wanted to take a few minutes to share my thoughts on your wonderful product, and thank you for providing such a tremendous training tool. Thank you!

Their response was immediate (within 24 hours), and they made me feel like I was their sole reason for being in business. Not only are they sending me a box of samples, but they offered such encouraging words that I will be a raving fan for a LONG time to come. "It is loyal and enthusiastic customers like you that keep us going in our never-ending pursuit to be the best." - Gu representative

So once again, it pays to take five minutes or less and send a brief testimonial about your favorite products. With the extreme viral nature of today's communication channels, a good experience with your company and/or product can lead to so many opportunities.

http://www.guenergy.com/