JennyHadfield.com

Congratulations to Scavenger Hunt for the Yaktrax Winners!

2011-01-30T13:13:00.002-06:00

It was a long, brutal hunt, and we had many daring souls who braved the elements in search of the correct answers to the Five Scavenger Hunt for the Yaktrax questions. A big thank you goes out to Yaktrax for developing cool gear to keep us running safely and efficiently in the snow and supporting this fun adventure. More to come folks - pleas stick around!

A hearty e-high five goes to Amy Z, Deborah Dean, and Kristine Simmermon for providing the correct answers. Please send me an email with your sizing preference for Yaktrax and mailing address to coach@jennyhadfield.com.

The winner answers:

Question #1: What marathon did Coach Jenny write about wearing Yaktrax?
The Antarctica Marathon

Question #2: Where did (specific location/destination and distance) Coach Jenny run with her brother Scott and a piano-playing rock star to honor her father?
The Grand Canyon for the Rim2Rim4Roy - 25 miles or over 24 miles

Question #3: List the five Italian cities where Coach Jenny be running in September?
Florence (Firenze in Italian), Lucca, Pisa, Siena, Prato

Question #4: What are Coach Jenny's 5 Great Reasons to Cross-Train?

Improved Running/Walking performance

Better Recovery

Increased Overall Fitness

Lower Risk of Injury

Mental Health/Fun

Question #5: What is the name of the race that Coach Jenny and Fozzie Bear participated last summer?
TransRockies RUN3

The Scavenger Hunt for the Yaktrax Winner

2011-01-28T12:09:00.006-06:00

Okay, so it's not that easy I find out to host a give away on social media. There are rules, bylaws, marathon length guidelines and hefty penalties. So, I came up with an off the beaten social media path idea to give away cool swag I love and not get thrown into jail.

Here are the rules (not many and I don't have any lawyers so please don't sue me if you get hurt in this virtual race.)

Rules and Regulations:

Your Mission should you choose to accept it: Navigate through all five virtual check points (questions below) and the find answers to each of these questions on the web (Google will be your trusty teammate on your journey). The person that posts the correct answers to all of the questions on the comments section of this blog, wins a pair of Yaktrax. [One post per person.] For the record, I have no affiliation with Yaktrax other than using them for years and years

That's it. Simple, sweet and a fun way to win a very useful running/walking tool to move not only more safely in the snow, but a heck of a lot more efficiently too.

The first three people to post the correct answers ON THIS BLOG comments section (not social media) wins a pair of Yaktrax.

Clause: Sending Coach Jenny sweet emails, brownies or any other bribes will not help you win the Yaktrax. Well, maybe the brownies, but none of that other fake stuff!

__________________________________________________________

Question #1: What marathon did Coach Jenny write about wearing Yaktrax?

Question #2: Where did (specific location/destination and distance) Coach Jenny run with her brother Scott and a piano-playing rock star to honor her father?

Question #3: List the five Italian cities where Coach Jenny be running in September?

Question #4: What are Coach Jenny's 5 Great Reasons to Cross-Train?

Question #5: What is the name of the race that Coach Jenny and Fozzie Bear participated last summer?

The Art of Play

2009-11-10T20:46:00.004-06:00

I loved to move when I was a kid. My parents would leave me in the wind-up swing for hours because I loved to be in motion. At the age of five, I was organizing headstand contests with the kids on the block. At seven, I moved on to racing Big Wheels for penny candy. And by nine, I was hosting treasure hunts in the limestone quarry behind our house. I would hide my mother's Precious Moments figurines and draw a map with an "X" where they were hidden. Then we would spend half the day trying to find them. We managed to find most, but my mom quickly put the kabosh on it when she noticed her collection was slowly deteriorating.

Activity was always fun as a kid. We didn't exercise, we played. Well, I got the chance to play Sunday with my good friend Sallie. I dusted off my compass and did an Orienteering meet. Although we weren't finding Precious Moments, it was just as much fun. I did quite a bit of orienteering/navigating while training for my adventure races, but it's been years since I've looked at a map. Needless to say, I was a little rusty and Sallie was a newbie, but we quickly learned to identify our strengths and weaknesses, and worked well as a team.

Orienteering involves finding a series of control points (check points) in sequence. The beginner courses are shorter in distance and the points are just off a trail. The more challenging courses are longer in distance and the control points are much more difficult to find (like some of those figurines:) Turns out, Sallie was great at reading the map with the clues. I was good at translating what was on the map to what was in front of us (reading the terrain). This is a picture of one of the ten control points we successfully found Sunday.

Before we knew it, we were out bush-wacking (moving through thick sticker bushes and vegetation), jumping across ravines and slowly finding our way. We were playing, and it felt good.

The greatest part of orienteering is it requires equal parts of physical and mental activity. It's a thinking sport. And a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon. I'm looking forward to my next play-date. It is a wonderful way to get in touch with my inner nine-year child.

Jenny

An Amazing Race and a Wonderful Documentary: From the Mara to the Marathon

2009-10-28T10:08:00.007-05:00

It's been a world-wind of a week...I successfully completed my target race, the North Face 50K Challenge and had the race of my life. I always go into events with neutral expectations, because you just never know what the day will bring. If you think sun and fun, it could be rain and sleet and not-so-much fun. To me, the best part of competing in events like the North Face Challenge is running into the great unknown. And when you run mindfully, there are a lot of wonderful things that happen along the trail of life.

I shed 37 minutes off my best 50K time and for the first time in my life placed third in my age group in a running event. But that wasn't the best part of the day. The true gift were the conversations along the way. Somewhere around 6-7 miles into the race, I hear two runners behind me and look back to see them trying to take a picture of the beautiful foliage. It was peaking in color, and just amazing to run through. I offer to take their picture and start to talk about where they're from and why they are running the event. Turns out they are from Puerto Rico, and were acquaintances of a wonderful man we lost this year to a heart attack, Mike Forte. Mike, was a veteran, a coach to thousands and an inspiration in the Puerto Rico running world. A man that helped change many lives. What are the chances of running a race in Wisconsin with 250 runners and meeting a friend of a friend from Puerto Rico? One in a million. We shared a moment of silence for Mike, and kept running.

So often in life we focus on the outcome, the destination, but it the journey that is chock-full of life-changing moments.

The producers of this timely documentary "From Mara to the Marathon" have captured the essence of the spirit of running, and how it brings the world closer together.

Enjoy...

*Photos by a great friend and crew for the race, Sallie Stiens.

The Finish Line

2009-10-15T11:36:00.001-05:00

It's marathon season and a busy one at that. Last weekend, I coached our team (Chicago Endurance Sports) through the Chicago Marathon. After two years of very warm, non-marathon friendly weather we finally caught a break. It was almost perfect weather (32/42 F) to tackle 26.2 miles and the smiles that greeted me at the finish were a tell-tale sign.

Many were first-timers who just five months ago never dreamed they could finish a marathon. To look at them when they cross the finish is like seeing their life changing right before your eyes. You can almost see their shock and amazement of what they accomplished. Many take this energy and confidence to continue to run marathons, while others use it to tackle other life goals. Either way, it's an energy I never get tired of watching, and it's the true reward in coaching.

The seasoned marathoners also had a tremendous day with a record number of personal records set. From qualifying for the Boston Marathon to shedding significant chunks of time off their best marathon finishes (50 minutes). The veterans shared in the magic of the day as well. All the planets were in alignment Sunday and the glow will last for months.

The true gift of the day was watching everyone return to the CES Tent/Party after they finished and sharing their journey with their families, friends and fellow runners. Although they had to take every step on their own, running is a community sport and one that brings people together.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Life is journey, not a destination.

2009-09-30T12:29:00.005-05:00

You never know when something spectacular is going to cross your path. I'm a huge fan of the fall season, in fact, it is my favorite time of the year. I drove up from Chicago to the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon to speak last weekend and en route witnessed the early signs of the change in foliage. My good friend Kathy told me it is either poison ivy or Virginia creeper. It was amazing to see the contrast between the deep red leaves on the vines, and the green leaves that hadn't yet made the change. Once they do, the picture will look very different. I was excited to be in the right place, at the right time.

The race weekend in Toronto was fantastic. Two Canadian marathon records were set, with the first male coming in at 2:08 and the female at 2:28 (that's very fast folks)! The course is flat and fast and very well organized so it is easy to understand why so many records are broken in this race every year. I ran the half marathon and was pleased with my time (1:57). It was one more step closer to my target race this season, The North Face 50K Ultra Marathon on October 24th.

Perhaps the best part of my weekend was working along side women's running legend, Joan Benoit Samuelson. She was the keynote speaker at the Pasta Party, Expo and ran the half marathon in an amazing time (1:21). Joan's running resume goes on for miles, and at the top of that list is winning the gold medal in the first women's marathon at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984. Twenty-five years later, Joan continues to strive for new goals. She is running the 40th ING New York City Marathon November 1st and aiming to beat the 50+ master's time of 2:53:53. She is a true pioneer in the sport and continues to pave the way for women (and children) in running.

Although my "carrot" this season is the Ultra Marathon, the journey to get there has been chock-full of wonderful moments.

Happy Trials,

Jenny

It's All About The Tree...

2009-09-18T09:00:00.057-05:00

It's been almost a year since I've blogged (personally, that is) and although it was nice to take a little time off, I've missed it. I'm fortunate to have some great professional writing gigs these days with my weekly RunnersWorld.com and BeeWellMiles.com blogs, and my monthly columns in HEALTH Magazine and Women's Running Magazine, but this is the place where I get a chance to unwind and write with a more personal flavor. So, I promise, I'm back in the saddle again...

The big news this week is John and I are celebrating our fifth anniversary today! We made the big move from Chicago (the city proper) to the burbs about 9 months ago, so we thought it would be a fitting and meaningful gift to buy each other a tree. Seeing as the gift of choice for a fifth anniversary is wood and all...So here she is, an October Glory a beautiful hybrid maple tree that will grow along with us in time.

Although I've loved every minute of the city life (11 years), my spirit was yearning for peace and nature and we finally found it. I'm also working on finding my green thumb, (okay maybe just my thumb) mountain biking and running on trails, and even paddling. Life is good.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Rim2Rim4Roy - Mission Accomplished!

2008-10-09T10:30:00.023-05:00

Team McGraw [My brother Scott-left, me-center and Jeff McMahon celebrity keyboardist with Tim McGraw-right] tackled over 24 miles, with 11,000 feet of elevation change and raised over $10,000 for the Tug McGraw Foundation in memory of our father Roy Hadfield, whose adventurous spirit lives on in all of us.

It’s difficult to translate our 12-hour fast-packing adventure across the Grand Canyon. Tuesday morning, we stood at the top of the North Rim at 8,200 feet and could see all the way across to the South Rim, or in our case, the finish line. It was an overwhelming view that literally took my breath away. It’s not that people haven’t traveled from rim to rim on foot, it’s just that most have done it over several days, not hours. I tried to digest the enormity of it all, but like geometry, it just didn’t make sense. It was the first time I had ever seen the finish line from the start, and what lay between seemed nearly impossible.

The temperature range was almost as extreme as the trail with the morning temperature at 29 degrees and 80 degrees at the base of the canyon. We followed the infamous North Kaibab Trail 14 miles and descended over a mile deep through layers of red rock glowing in the

morning sun. I took a million pictures, but knew there was just no way to capture the essence of what I was seeing. This view couldn’t be bottled it could only be earned. We had a schedule and had to move efficiently to reach it, but nature just kept tapping on our shoulders which made it tough to avoid stopping.

Our strategy was to fast-pack down the trail, which involves moving efficiently hiking and running and working with the terrain. We ran the more subtle declines and hiked the extremes to conserve energy for the toughest part of the day, the climb back up to the South Rim. The Phantom Ranch served as an intermission. It sits at the base of the canyon and was the lowest point on our journey (2,450 ft). I’m not sure what I was expecting at Phantom Ranch, but it surely didn’t involve the shadow of darkness that greeted me at the campground entrance. It caught me by surprise and chilled my soul.

We crossed the Colorado River on the Silver Bridge and began the dauntingly steep nine-mile climb up to the South Rim. At this point, the reality of the journey began to set in. The Bright Angel Trail is a series of switchbacks that weave straight up the side of the canyon. The higher we climbed, the harder it was to breathe, but the view certainly made up for it. Although my legs were faltering, my mind was racing with thoughts of my father, memories shared and how much he would have enjoyed the trip. He worked day and night to provide for the family and I think he would be happy to see us celebrating his life.

As the sun was setting, so too was our journey. I looked back and a flood of emotion filled my mind. I could see the North Rim and the magnitude of just how far we had come. It was as if my father was standing on the edge with us smiling and gently letting go. Our family journeyed to the depths and it was time to climb out of the canyon and celebrate the man that did so much for so many. It is the uncertainty of the unknown that fuels my fears, but it is my father’s spirit that leads me to unveil the mysteries of life.

Jenny

**I want to thank everyone who supported the team and donated to Rim2Rim4Roy. I also want to thank my brother Scott for having the courage to take on this adventure is his busy life, my sister Wendy and mother Doris who were there with us in spirit, Jeff McMahon and Jennifer Brusstar from Team McGraw and Tug, for giving us reason to reach beyond our limits. And finally, I'd like to thank my husband John Bingham, who supported us every step of the way. He is the best life crew a girl could want.

100% of the funds raised will go to the Tug McGraw Foundation and enhance the quality of life of children and adults with brain tumors and their families by stimulating and facilitating research that addresses the physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual impact of the disease. Tug McGraw continues to inspire and help improve the quality of life for brain tumor survivors and their families. Rim2Rim4Roy was created to honor his mission and celebrate his life.

T-Minus 4 Days And Counting...

2008-10-03T08:49:00.004-05:00

Four days to go until we head to the Grand Canyon for Rim2Rim4Roy. The four of us (my brother Scott, Jeff McMahon-friend and superstar keyboardist, and my husband John-crew) will journey to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and run to the South Rim tackling 25 miles of rugged terrain and 11,000 feet of elevation change. I can hardly wait to get started...

I want to thank everyone that donated to the cause. 100% of the funds raised will go the Tug McGraw Foundation, a charity that is near and dear to my heart. We lost our father to a brain tumor two years ago and we created R2R4R in his memory. It will be a cathartic journey that will celebrate his life and support a charity that is making a difference by enhancing the lives of children and adults with brain tumors. A win-win for sure.

It's been awhile since I've done something "new" and the uncertainty of the unknown is bubbling up all kinds of nerves and nightmares. My favorite dream was getting lost on the trail and ending up in the middle of Alaska at a Starbucks! It's taper madness at it's very best. Every time I get caught up in the madness, I think about my training, the people that have supported me along the way, and all the families that will benefit from the good work the Tug McGraw Foundation is doing. The unknown, although it can be scary, fuels my inner explorer and challenges me to reach beyond my limits. The view is much better when you earn it.

Off to packing and dreaming...

Jenny

When It Rains, It Pours

2008-09-15T12:42:00.002-05:00

Wow, what a weekend we had in Chicago. Chicago Endurance Sports trained a team for the Chicago Half Marathon and for many, it was their first shot at the distance. So I was pleasantly surprised to see so many of them show up at the start Sunday even though the rain was coming down in sheets!

Chicago had what they are now calling a "20-Year Rain" with over 8 inches in some areas this weekend. It just kept coming down. The race staff had to make a lot of last minute changes due to flooding and tackled the huge challenge of putting on the race in horrible conditions. I must say I was really impressed with our runners for showing up and towing the line on a horrible day (and a day that was perfect for sleeping in). I am equally impressed with all the volunteers and family and friends that stood out there helping us run the race. The Chicago Half Marathon staff did a phenomenal job in challenging conditions and we all got through it one inch at a time.

Sometimes racing in the worst conditions make for the best of memories.

Congrats to all that were involved and here's to drying out!

Jenny

Country Roads

2008-09-08T15:35:00.005-05:00

There's something about a winding road that sucks me in and takes me for a ride. I was out in the country this weekend at our annual girls getaway and had the chance to run on an open, winding, hilly country road. There is almost nothing better...no cars, plenty of wildlife and fresh, crisp air. It was the perfect training run for my upcoming Rim2Rim4Roy Adventure across the Grand Canyon and a most excellent way to defrag and unwind.

I'm 30 days out from my GC Adventure and getting in a lot of great training these days. Some long, fast hikes, some trail runs and a lot of climbing workouts. It should be a good recipe to get me through.

I want to publicly thank everyone for their support (emotional and financial). We're just beyond the half way point of our goal to raise $11,000 for the Tug McGraw Foundation. (Which also happens to be the total amount of elevation gain on our journey)

If you are interested in making a donation to the team (every penny counts), CLICK HERE.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

A fun training run and a bad hair day...

2008-09-02T16:09:00.007-05:00

I'm back from a long weekend at the Virginia Beach Rock n Roll Half Marathon. This is one of my favorite races of the season and a fun way to end the summer. It was a funny race for me and I struggled a little with the humidity. I think mostly because the weather in Chicago has been dry and cool all summer that I just wasn't acclimated for the 87% humidity even though the temps weren't crazy hot (75-80).

I can always tell how I will do in a race based on what my hair looks like:) Nice, smooth curls = a strong race. Out of control frizz = a tough race. And the minute I stepped off the plane in Norfolk, my hair looked like Rosseane, Roseannadanna. It's actually a great barometer for knowing when to cut back on pace and go with what the day brings, and I did just that. I actually used this race as a training run for my Rim2Rim4Roy challenge in early October. I ran to the start, ran the half marathon and then walked back to the hotel. Twenty miles in total and a perfect training day for me.

So I guess we're headed into fall, and with that begins my search for the perfect carmel apple. Because what is fall without carmel apples? Not a fall at all...

Happy Trails,

Jenny

It's Working...

2008-08-25T12:59:00.006-05:00

I had the pleasure of cheering and supporting our Triathlon Team yesterday at the Accenture Triathlon (the world's largest ). We (Chicago Endurance Sports) had over 160 athletes racing and it was an absolutely beautiful day to swim, bike and run.

I sat for a while on the edge of the water cheering on swimmers and noticed a nice trend. Mothers, fathers, and grandparents walking along with kids in tow. Many of the kids had "Go Dad or Mom" on their shirts and all of them were eagerly awaiting a chance to cheer them on. I have to believe this is going to have a profound impact on the next generation and how active they choose to be. With parents as role models out there in the water and on the roads getting it done, their kids are going to choose to live an active lifestyle because it will be normal. And what a great way to be proactive in the battle with childhood obesity.

Way to go moms, dads and grandparents! You are a tremendous role model and your achievements today will make a huge impact on children tomorrow.

Keep it up...

Jenny

Rim2Rim4Roy

2008-08-18T17:47:00.006-05:00

I realized the past few months that I've pretty much been living in a fog for the past two years. After losing my father to a brain tumor, my gram and dog to old age, I just went "away" emotionally and physically. Almost in autopilot...

The good news is that I am realizing this and that must mean I am on the other side of it. Life rolls up and down and it sure is nice to be on the up part again! Speaking of up and downs, I am doing something that has been on my Life List for years. I've created an event (personal) called Rim2Rim4Roy to honor my father and put my strengths to good use.

This October, my brother Scott, a good friend and celebrity keyboardist Jeff McMahon (of Tim McGraw), my husband John Bingham and I will tackle twenty-five intensely rugged miles over 11,000 feet of elevation change in the Grand Canyon to raise awareness and funds for the Tug McGraw Foundation.

Our journey will take us 8-10 hours and none of us really knows what to expect (except maybe sore quads). I can hardly wait to take the first step. One, because it will be a cathartic adventure and will feel good to finally put action into something I've felt so helpless over. And two, it will be an epic adventure that I hope to bring others to down the road and continue to honor my father and raise funds and awareness. Stay tuned on that account...

We are shooting to raise $11,000, the total amount of the elevation gain and loss. If you are interested in supporting our cause, you can donate HERE.

More details on training and the Rim2Rim4Roy Adventure coming soon...

Happy Trails,

Sometimes Actions Speak Louder Than Words...

2008-08-04T09:26:00.006-05:00

Two Races In One Day

2008-07-26T14:18:00.002-05:00

I'm having a great summer so far. The weather has given us plenty of cool running days and I'm really getting excited about the next few weeks. I haven't run a 5K in years and I headed up to Palatine Sunday, August 17th for the Jogginforthenoggin' 5K. It will be fun to run in honor of my dad and see if my legs still know how to run fast. A fun race for a great cause for sure. If you're in the Chicago area, please join us.

Then I'm going to attempt to run two races at the same time in two different cities! Holy bib numbers Batman! How can that be done? Easy...I registered for the virtual Nike+ Human Race 10K on August 31st. Nike is hosting the world's largest 10K in 25 cities around the globe...ON THE SAME DAY! Since I am going to be speaking at and running the Rock n Roll Half Marathon in Virginia Beach that weekend, I am going to strap on my Nike+ system, put on my RnR bib and run two races at once! I'll finish my half on the beach (the best way to end the summer...), log in to my Nike+ account and log mile Human Race 10K miles too! Two races, one day, three great causes.

Life is good.

Jenny

Great Alaskan Marathon Cruise

2008-07-08T17:35:00.008-05:00

Well, we're back from the last frontier and getting ready for our next adventure, the Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon. But before I move on with CDC, I must do a recap.

Every once in awhile I find myself surrounded by an amazing "group" of people. Meaning everyone in the group is simply amazing.

Sometimes it is a small group and other times, like on our cruise, it is a larger group. In either case, the group is fueled by the collection of amazing energy that comes from each person. I like to call it "karma." The best way to describe this journey, the Great Alaskan Maritime Marathon was a fun adventure with some of the greatest folks I'd ever want to meet. We had runners from Thailand, Australia, Canada and all over the nation. All of whom immediately bonded at the cocktail party on our very first evening together.

I think it was because everyone was willing to put their preconceived expectations aside and went with the flow. We set up the staged marathon so that in each port you run a race...and by the end of the trip you complete 26.2 miles (the fun way:). That, in and of itself is a challenge, but we added to the adventure by asking them to gently step outside their comfort zones for the week. To try something new and challenge themselves in a less traditional way. From learning to navigate, to running on a tough trail, everyone took on the challenge, embraced the path less traveled and grew from it in the end. BTW, I am a firm believer that you practice what you preach so I made myself wear pretty high heals (okay, high for me) and formal dresses most of the week (completely out of my comfort zone). It was tough, but I loved every minute. Except maybe when my feet began to talk to me.

Anyway, I am grateful that I get to do what I love for a living and others are willing to adventure on with me. It was a privilege to spend the week with such a great group of runners and walkers and we all now have a lot of wonderful memories to boot!

The Great Alaskan Marathon Cruise will set sail again in June, 2010. John and I hope you can make it!

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Jogginforthenoggin...

2008-06-23T10:05:00.001-05:00

It's a small world after all. Last fall as I sat in my office hammering away at blogs, emails and other fun coaching stuff my mind and heart was instantly pulled from away to watch this piece on the Today Show. It included a segment about a marathon runner from Palatine, Illinois named Jen McDevitt. It was an interview that left me speechless and also brought me to tears. You see, Jen is a brain tumor survivor. But more importantly, she is a runner. A marathon runner. She was diagnosed in 2003 only eight short weeks after having her son, Jack. What struck me was her amazing attitude and spirit. She trained for her first marathon in 2004 while under chemo (not to mention being a new mom, work...). It tugged on my heart strings as I had just lost my father to a brain tumor and felt a huge gravitational pull toward her and the cause (The Tug McGraw Foundation). I thought to myself, "self, someday I would like to meet Jen McDevitt and raise funds for the Tug McGraw Foundation."

Fast forward to now and Jen and I are quickly becoming friends (that's the small world part). I had the chance to meet Jen a few weeks back at a Tim McGraw Concert (read my blog about how serendipity plays a role here). She is hosting a race called the Jogginforthenoggin 5K
on Sunday, August 17th at 7:30 in Palatine, Illinois. I am going to run the race and I hope you can too. If you are in the area and looking for a fun 5K for a great cause, sign up here!

Or, if you want to volunteer and spread the good karma, shoot her an email and help out for the morning. Trust me, her energy and spirit will rub off on you:)

Watch Jen's Today Show interview post NYC 07 Marathon...

Gearing Up For Alaska

2008-06-16T19:38:00.004-05:00

This week's all about getting ready for our race in Alaska, The Great Alaskan Maritime Marathon. It's a cruise and marathon blended together and an event that I absolutely love. For one, it brings runners from all over the world together. This year we have runners from Thailand, Canada, Australia and all over the U.S. And once we get on board, the friendships blossom and the memories are made for a lifetime.

This is also the best way (in my mind) to run or walk a marathon. It is a "staged" marathon and one that you run over a period of days (staged) rather than hours. It sounds easy, but it is truly a challenge. The first day on the ship we run a short race and have the second day off to enjoy Glacier Bay. The third day is a half marathon in Juneau, followed by a 5 mile road race in Sitka and a trail race in Ketchikan. Every night we enjoy a fine dinner, drinks and dancing and every morning we run a different race in a new place! By the end of the week, everyone will have completed 26.2 and get a medal to prove it. Sound like fun? Stay tuned as we are creating another fun running adventure in 2009. Now off to more packing and re-packing...

Until June 30th.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Looking For A 2008 Chicago Marathon Slot?

2008-06-11T15:44:00.002-05:00

Greetings runners...many of you have written and asked about ways of getting into the 2008 Chicago Marathon (which is sold out). Well, good news...A charity that is near and dear to my heart has a few spots left for the Chicago Marathon. If you're looking, keep reading.

Team McGraw was established to raise funds for pioneering brain cancer research, increase public awareness of the disease, and support college students who exemplify leadership and Tug’s inspiring “Ya Gotta Believe” spirit.

Over 200,000 adults (my father included) and children annually receive a diagnosis of brain cancer, and the mission of the Foundation is to support research that will improve their quality of life in the physical, social, spiritual, and cognitive areas.

My brother Scott and I are raising funds for the Tug McGraw Foundation this year. More on that later...

If you know of anyone looking to get into the Chicago Marathon and wanting to raise funds for a great charity please send them HERE.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Fueling My Soul

2008-06-09T15:09:00.003-05:00

My life has literally been on the run over the past few months. Not the good kind of running either. Running here, running there and literally squeezing in Better Than Nothing Runs. So, when I actually got out to run on my favorite trail Sunday, my soul smiled for the first time all season.

There is something about being on a trail that soothes my mind and nurtures my soul. Don't get me wrong...I love running in the city, but if I have a choice, it always leads to the path less traveled. The peace and tranquility provides a place to balance my energy and refresh my mind. The choice to be creative and take the fork in the road rejuvenates my never ending sense for adventure and brings me way back to my days of "toad hunting" in my childhood forest. The gift is not the trail. The true gift is understanding what the trail means to me. And for that, I am truly grateful.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Tag Along To Get Faster

2008-06-02T17:47:00.004-05:00

I get asked all the time "Coach Jenny, how do I get faster?" One of the fun ways to get faster or improve your performance is to train with athletes that are faster or better than you.

I finally got my mountain bike out and rode about 20 miles at Waterfall Glen Sunday. It is a beautiful and rolling 10-mile limestone path and the perfect place to ride. While I was getting my butt back in gear (literally), a "jersey" rode by me. A jersey is one of those serious cyclists with a fast, very light road bike and cool jersey to match. The competitive side of me decided to tag along and ride the draft and I had a ball doing so. It's been awhile since I rode my mt. bike or road bike in "a line" and it is a great way to push that extra inch. Doing do makes all the difference in the world.

When I needed to learn to paddle, I trained with my champion paddling teammates. When I needed to improve my technical mountain biking skills, I followed my professional mt. biking teammate. Although it can be a little intimidating, training with athletes that are strong and more skilled than you brings out the best you have and can push you to a whole new level.

World marathon holder, Paula Radcliffe was once asked what her training secret was and she said, "I train like a man." I guess for her since there aren't any women that are faster than she is in the marathon distance, she'd have to train with men!

Men or women, train with your buddies that are faster. In most cases, they are happy to teach you the skills or even happier to push you that extra mile:)

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Better-Than-Nothing Runs

2008-05-30T13:00:00.005-05:00

Tis the season...this is the time of year when my time for running is at it's least and work hours are the greatest. I love what I do and do what I love so there is no need to feel sorry for me:) I've found the best way to get through these times is to launch a sequence of "better than nothing runs" that keep up my running fitness and motivational momentum until I have a little more time on my hands.

The BTN runs always start with 5 minutes of walking to warm up properly and conclude with 5 minutes of walking to cool down. Then it is a progressive ladder of faster running intervals for 30 minutes. For example, run 4 minutes at 9:30 pace, walk 1 minute to recover, 9:15 for 4 minutes...9:00...8:45 and so on. It is a short but sweet workout that kicks my butt and I get more value for my time. I run this workout 3 times per week and one more 45 minute run to top it off. I couldn't do this as frequently when my mileage is up higher because it would be too much and my body would not recover run to run. But because I am running every other day for shorter periods of time, it works.

Looking forward to things calming down in the next few weeks and getting back to my normal summer program with trail runs, mt. biking and long runs. Can't wait...

Special Note:
Girls On The Run is an organization that teaches middle school age girls how to respect themselves, proper sportsmanship & how to live a healthy lifestyle. It's a fabulous program and now one of their girls is up for an award!

Chicagoan Nichyria Byrd, an 11 year-old participant in Girls on the Run, has been nominated for ESPN's first-ever "Youth Achievement Award" as part of the 2008 ESPYs.

Nichyria, a 5th grader at Ariel Community Academy, is one of only five nominees from across the country, and the only from the Midwest. Her nomination reflects not just her own leadership on and off the course, but also celebrates the achievement of every Girls on the Run participant.

The winner will be selected based on online voting through June 15th, so we're asking everyone to vote for Nichyria today, and forward this e-mail to your friends, family and co-workers as well.

Click here to vote for Nichyria today!

Happy Trails,

Jenny

You Get What You Give

2008-05-19T14:00:00.002-05:00

You never know when your past is going to hit you. Sometimes it is a full force blow to the mind and other times, an emotional flood of wonderful life experiences you instantly wish you could be experiencing all over again.

I was recently writing my blog on Runnersworld.com and looking for a link on Eco-Challenge, an endurance race I have done three times. When out of the blue a link to a YouTube video pops up in my google search screen. It is a 10-year Tribute to the race that changed my life and I literally got chills watching it all over again.

Racing in the Eco-Challenge; Borneo 2001, New Zealand 2002 and Fiji in 2003 gave me a life's worth of lessons that I put to good use every day of my life. Some of us learn with books, some with a therapist (tried this too), but for me, the ultimate challenge of learning to work as a team through what is billed as the most grueling endurance event in the world was the perfect platform. I grew up creating adventure where ever I could. So Eco came into my life at the perfect time and challenged my mind and body to grow and expand my limitations. One woman's torture is another's opportunity to break her own perceived barriers.

I must admit, I really miss those days but still find a good challenge here and there to keep me honest. Because getting a little dirty, pushing beyond my limits makes me feel alive and happy.

Enjoy the clip...

Happy Trails,

Jenny

When In Rhone...

2008-05-12T19:54:00.003-05:00

I just returned from one of the prettiest half marathon courses I've ever run. We brought a team(Chicago Endurance Sports) of about 100 runners to run the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon, and although it was hilly, they ran, they conquered, and they tasted wine at the end! Now that's not what I typically recommend or even do myself post race, but when in Rhone, I mean Rome...

One of the coaching lessons I've learned in the over 15 years I've been at it is to go with the flow. Some races you get out there and hammer, while others you go with what the day brings. And when you run a race through Santa Barbara Wine Country, that means you make friends with the hills and enjoy the wine at the end. And you can see from the picture that we did just that. It was the perfect end to a challenging season.

These days, running a race can mean so many things for so many different people. There are charity runners racing for a cause, the elite runners trying to get the win, and every-day mortals getting away for a fun-filled weekend with a challenge thrown in the middle. What ever your reason, find a race that you can enjoy. Because if you're not having fun out there, what's the point.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

BeeWell Miles

2008-05-05T10:05:00.006-05:00

It's always great when you can run for a reason. Sometimes that reason is very personal, while other times it can really make a difference in someone's life. I have been working with Bumble Bee Foods on their new campaign to inspire people to get active, healthy and make a difference for Y-ME.

I write a monthly column for Health Magazine and the Girls Gotta Move Running Club. Bumble Bee and Health Magazine have joined forces to create the BeeWell Miles Program. Between May 1 and June 30, 2008, log the miles you walk or run at Beewellmiles.com to support our $150,000 donation to Y-ME. When over 1 million miles are logged within that period, Bumble Bee will make an additional donation of $50,000 to Y-ME. Look for the pink Bumble Bee premium tuna cans at your grocer and support Y-ME.

Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization™ (Y-ME) is a Chicago-based national nonprofit organization with the mission to ensure, through information, empowerment and peer support, that no one faces breast cancer alone. Y-ME® does not raise money for research. It is here today for those who can’t wait for tomorrow’s cure.

It is really a unique campaign and it has a lot of great features for runners and walkers. You can log your miles, track your nutrition and learn from the tips and articles too! Check it out and start logging your miles for a cause. Together we can move and make a difference.

Jenny

Ya Gotta Believe...

2008-04-28T13:21:00.005-05:00

Life is funny...It was a busy but great weekend. I was speaking down in Nashville at the Country Music Marathon. I drove down from Chicago and saw a sneak peak at spring heading our way (Chicago). Everything was blooming and green and it really gave me hope. Good thing because it is suppose to snow today in the windy city (argghhh!).

Anyway, here's the funny part. And by funny, I don't mean "ha-ha", I mean "aha". We were setting up our booth at the Expo and it was in a tight corner where we most likely wouldn't have seen very many folks. We asked Sandy, our friend and Expo Director if we could move to the booth behind and she said sure! We did, and in doing so, we were right across from a charity booth called Team McGraw. A nice guy named "Jeff" came over to introduce himself and asked me if I had lost my dad to a brain tumor. It took me back a little at first but I quickly realized why he was asking. He had read my blog about my father passing and his struggle with Glioblastoma (brain tumor) and wanted to tell me about the Tug McGraw Foundation. Remember Tug the famous baseball player?

"Ya Gotta Believe"-- The Tug McGraw Foundation was established by Tug McGraw in 2003 to raise funds to enhance the quality of life of children and adults with brain tumors and their families by stimulating and facilitating research that addresses the physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual impact of the disease. The amazing part of all of this is Tug McGraw was diagnosed with brain cancer (same as my father), and on his journey developed this foundation. Tug wanted to create programs for brain tumor survivors and their families, friends and caregivers that would help them to face the often daunting challenge of this terrible cancer. He wanted to find partners fighting the same fight…with the same goals…and the same inspiration. He wanted to share his story, explain what brain cancer was all about, and inspire others to act. Truly Amazing...

The most difficult part of my father's final chapter for all of us was not feeling as if we were able to help him. We struggled with finding proper care, knowing which direction to turn and ultimately communicating with him.

I am in awe of what Tug was able to accomplish in his final months. They tell me he was given a few weeks to live and he turned that into a 10-month plan to make a difference. I've been looking for a charity to work with in honor of my father and it found me. Smack-dab in the middle of a race expo. If I hadn't been a runner I wouldn't have been there. If we hadn't moved our expo booth, we wouldn't have seen Jeff, Jennifer and Team McGraw. Life is funny...If you're listening, life presents itself to you.

Team McGraw is forming teams for the Chicago and New York City Marathons this season. To apply for the team or donate to the Foundation, visit their website HERE.

A special thanks to Jeff McMahon and Jennifer Brusstar for walking over to our booth. Jeff is the Keyboardist for Tim McGraw and a marathon runner. I'm not sure how he does it, but he trains for marathons is a very active spokesperson for the foundation AND is on tour! If he can do it... Jennifer is the CEO/President of the Foundation and was Tug's caretaker.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Podrunner: Intervals

2008-04-15T15:15:00.011-05:00

I've always been a huge fan of music. I can't make music and I can barely sing it, but I love listening to it. Especially when I run.

That's why I am thrilled to announce I am working with DJ Steveboy and DJ Beatsmith and their Podrunner:Intervals music mixes for runners. But before I go any farther, I need to take a few steps back in time...well, more than just a few!

A long, long time ago in a far away place, I used to teach step aerobics when I started my fitness career in corporate fitness. The key to teaching step well is to step to the beat, up, up, down, down. So I was always on the look out for great music mixes that flowed seemlessly from one tune to another at fixed beats per minutes. That way, I could optimally torture the folks in my class to the beat. It made the time roll by and the inches burn off. Loved moving to music then and still do now. Are you still with me?

Take that love of moving to the beat and think running. My friend Kathy turned me on to Podrunner and I have been running to DJ Steveboy's FREE fixed tempo music mixes ever since. In fact, I use the mixes to coach runners on form and efficiency. It is the most popular music podcast and a perfect musical resource for runners and cyclists. I am a firm believer that music improves performance. Every race I've run with my iPod has been my fastest. But that debate is for a very different blog.

Fast-forward to a few months ago. DJ Steveboy and DJ Beatsmith create another "most popular" podcast called Podrunner: Intervals or P:I for short. P:Intervals is a varied beats per minute workout mix of music geared to runners, run-walkers and walkers! They started with a "First Day to 5K" mix that took you from the couch to running 30 minutes or a 5K. I emailed him to tell him it was a brilliant idea - and here we are now co-creating training mixes for all levels of runners and walkers. Life is good. I get to coach in a new format (auditory) and work with two very talented and creative DJs. What is better than that?

So, I encourage you to try out the new Podrunner: Intervals mix we launched this week. It is called "Gateway to 8K" and is geared to helping you go from 30 minutes or a 5K to 50 minutes or a 8K. The mixes include a 5 minute walking warm-up - then intervals of 7 minutes of upbeat music for running followed by 1 minute of slower paced music to power walk - then a cool down. There are tones to indicate when the warm up begins, when you should run and walk and then cool down so you don't even need to look down at your watch...just listen. Plus there is a training tip from me at the end of every mix.

If you're running has been on break this season (you're not alone), start with the "First Day to 5K" series and build back up the fun way...to the beat of some motivational music! You can find that series of mixes in the archives on the P:I homepage.

You can also download the free podcasts on iTunes. Just visit the iTunes Store, go to podcasts and do a search on Podrunner or Podrunner:Intervals!

It's Free, it's fun, and it will keep you moving and grooving...

Happy Feet, I mean Trails,

Jenny

The Seasonal Bite Me Zone

2008-04-09T19:20:00.002-05:00

Well, it sure it great to see the sun these days. It seems like all we're talking about in the midwest is the tough winter we've had. It wasn't just the snowiest, but just so darn gloomy! I slipped into the Seasonal Bite Me Zone in late March and just now coming out of it. The Bite Me Zone is that place you can reach in a race when your blood sugar drops too low and you want to bite your best friend's head off...We've all been there both in and out of a race and I'm just climbing out of mine.

Here is Chicago, you know its spring when the boats hit the lakefront. April 1st was a cold day, but the first day the avid boaters could unveil their treasures and hit the lake! For a runner, you know it is spring when your pale, dry legs finally see the sun on a run. I'm happy to report I've run twice now in shorts and every week it gets just a little warmer. The great thing about living in a four-season climate is you always appreciate the next season.

John and I are off to Columbus for our race, the Capital City Half Marathon and Commit To Be Fit 5K. We'll celebrate with 5,000 of our favorite runners in the area and reach record numbers.

until next week....happy trails

jenny

The Last Marathon

2008-04-01T09:59:00.004-05:00

Wow, its great to be back. Well, actually we've been back for a few weeks now but traveling all over the place. The trip was fantastic and although I've been four times now, I still struggle with how to explain it all.

To me, the adventure is a huge part of it but it comes down to the people on the trip. Runners from all over the world on a ship for 10 days together, exploring a part of the world most will never see. The race is a tiny part of the experience and the runners and their stories become the spirit of each trip.

This year, we had a mountain runner from Poland slash the world record and run the course in 3:09, 30+ minutes faster than anyone has every covered the distance. On the women's side, two twins from Holland took first and second (we're not sure to this day which one won:). A fun race and another fascinating journey. By the way, that is me on the ATV on the top of the glacier climb leading the second place runner. John is on the other ATV on his way down. Very fun...

P.S. I didn't conquer my seasickness this time. Turns out we were on a much, much (much) smaller ship that was actually once used as an inter-island ferry to cross the Drake Passage. Although the seas were calm, I was rather sick. Hey, I'm a Cubs fan though so I have the words "there's always next year" embedded in my head!

Thanks for your patience and supportive emails!

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Heading south for the spring

2008-02-22T13:03:00.009-06:00

John and I are getting packed up for our annual trip to Antarctica for the marathon. After the winter we've had (rough), it seems a little weird to be heading south to more cold but it is their summer so it shouldn't be too bad. Actually, it really isn't. Since it is summer down there, the temperatures are typically around 20-35 degrees Fahrenheit so it is very much like Chicago winter weather.

We fly from Chicago to Buenos Aires and hang there for a few days to allow all the runners to arrive from all over the world. There are two ships with a total of 200 runners and many are trying to complete a marathon in all seven continents. One of the best parts of this expedition is meeting all these runners. So many stories and plenty of time to get to know them.

We then fly to Ushuaia,the southernmost city in the world! It is a beautiful city with mountains everywhere and the open sea, which is the gateway to Antarctica. We board the ship (actually two ships) and sail across the most turbulent seas in the world, the Drake Passage. I get sea sick in the tub so this is not my favorite part of the journey...but well worth it otherwise I wouldn't be returning for my fourth expedition. Check it out [caution: I had to turn off the volume while watching as I got sea sick at my desk on dry land - a new record for me:]

Anyway, once we cross the dreaded Drake, the crew [that would be us] sets up the marathon course for a day while the runners go site seeing and then the marathon is the following day [if the weather permits]. Course set up is quite demanding and old school. We mark with flags and markers so we leave no trace. It is quite an event, but having a GPS makes all the difference in the world. They use to mark it with a site marker....can you imagine?

This IS one of the toughest marathons in the world for a few reasons. One, it takes 6 days to reach the start line and by the time you get there you've been through miles and miles of travel in planes, buses and a rocky ship. And B, you don't really know what the race course is going to be like...once it was hip deep snow in areas and -20 wind chill. The next time, 35 degrees F and mud over your shoes!

I have a slide show from last year. Check it out...I will update with more after we survive this year's expedition.

Until March 19th...

Jenny

A Real Winter...

2008-02-11T14:14:00.000-06:00

Typically by this time in the winter season I am counting the hours until the warmer weather arrives but there is something mysteriously fun about having a 'real' winter. We've been hit with five major snow storms, record lows and sleet, rain and a tornado. I call this 'character building' weather. It makes me appreciate the warm weather when it does arrive.

When I was a kid, I remember the snow being up to the roof of our garage and how excited we would get when school was canceled. We use to play for hours and even attempted making a sled luge from the garage [never panned out and it was never a good idea].

So as yet another snow storm rolls into the Chicagoland area today I am planning my play time wisely. Snow shoes are at the door waiting and my mittens are being washed as I write.

Until then, I'll stick with my winter goal of cleaning out my office. Its a great time to do it, but its not as much fun as plunging off a roof!

Jenny

A Refreshing Recovery

2008-02-07T09:46:00.000-06:00

I recently had the opportunity to meet and talk to World Record Marathoner Paula Radcliffe. She is a running phenom who is blazing the trail for all female athletes. Not only is she the fastest female marathoner in the world, she is also the fastest marathon mom in the world too! After giving birth to a baby girl in January of 2007, she won the New York City Marathon last fall! Simply amazing.

Okay, so back to talking with Paula... One of the questions I asked her was how she recovers from a marathon race. Her response was both predictable and surprising. Predictable in that she takes time off. Something most of us mortal marathoners don't do enough. Surprising because she really takes time off. No running and easy cross-training for an entire month! I guess I expected a graduated progression back to running like most of us do but she said invests four weeks to recover mentally and physically from the demands of her training regimen as well as the race.

So, as a coach and runner I was very intrigued with this method and decided to try it this month. I ran the Disney Marathon with my brother January 13th then another half marathon the next weekend and it was the perfect time to do it. I am happy to report it was one of the most effective recovery periods in my running career. I am finishing up my fourth week. I have done only easy cross-training and included activities I enjoy like yoga, cycling and walking and I haven't run a step in a month! It was funny at first because I almost felt guilty not running but soon enough I was in the flow of a new regimen and reaping the benefits.

So, having rested from running for one month I am eager to get back to a training regimen and have a rejuvenated sense of energy and motivation to do so. Mostly because my body has had time to relax and recover and I've had time to enjoy other activities my marathon regimen (and the holidays) wouldn't allow for like seeing movies, visiting with family, Bikram Yoga, snowshoeing. I am no Paula Radcliffe but I better understand her recovery strategy. She trains hard. She races harder. So it makes perfect sense that her recovery is just as hard.

It easy to overtrain or under recover.

It takes discipline to recover wisely.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Adventure Running At It's Best

2008-01-23T20:01:00.000-06:00

I just returned from one of my top five running races EVER. We took our runners from Chicago Endurance Sports to Cabo San Lucas for the Half Marathon and it was a very fun weekend of events. As you can see from the pictures, I ran and had fun along the way making sure all our CESers got in safely.

My husband John and I swam with the dolphins! This will go down as one of my favorite life moments for a few reasons...One, because I got to watch my husband and friends smile like they were kids again (me too:) And B, because we were up close and personal with "Maya" a rescue dolphin who had one eye and a heart the size of the Pacific Ocean. What a weekend...I think I need a little more time to digest to fully explain just how much fun I had.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Magical Marathon

2008-01-14T23:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year

2008-01-03T12:54:00.000-06:00

Here's to a year full of happy miles and plenty of smiles. I am looking forward to getting back on the trails this Spring and perhaps even tackling another Ultra Marathon or two. But before I can dream about what Spring and Summer will bring, I have to focus on the next two months of adventures.

Next weekend I am running the 15th Anniversary Disney Marathon with my brother. He's trained hard and it will be his first so it should be a fun journey. The following weekend our team from Chicago Endurance Sports is running the Cabo San Lucas Half Marathon. I know, it is a tough job but someone has to do it:) Then at the end of February John and I are staff and crew for the Antarctica Marathon Expedition. The trip down there is adventure enough! I put together a slide show from last year's race so you can see how hard the course is.

I am grateful to have so many adventures to conquer this season. It's what keeps life interesting for me!

Here's to your next adventure. Please share with us what or where you are going...

Jenny

Snow Play

2007-12-17T08:23:00.000-06:00

Just when I thought we had the fourth and final storm in December, we got hit with another one Friday-Sunday. But this time, the snow was just beautiful. It was the kind of snow storm I use to sit up late and watch as a child, counting down the minutes until I could go out and play in it. Snow angels were my favorite, especially in fluffy white snow. We use to play for hours making forts, snow ball fights and sledding down hills. Now I understand why we were fit kids. We played in the snow rather than complaining about it:)

I went for a run on the plowed and salted roads Sunday after all the snow had fallen and came across Cricket Hill. It is the only hill in Chicago and THE place to be after a significant snow fall. I stopped, took this video and just smiled watching the kids laughing, the adults smiling, and the dogs jumping in excitement.

I finished up my 6 miler and promised myself that next time I would "play" in the snow rather than run around it. I will break out the snow shoes, hit the trails and reap the benefits of a classic Chicago winter storm.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Plan B, C, and D...

2007-12-10T12:01:00.000-06:00

Well, it's been one of those weeks in Chicago. We went from rather nice running weather in the 30-40s to sleet, snow, and cold. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining about that but what I am whining about is it all came in one week! We are on our fourth weather storm warning in less than 10 days! And all at the time when I had to get in my 18 miler.

So, I modified, tweaked and practically duct taped my long run plans. First I was going to run it on Wednesday and take a cab north to Lake Forest which is about 18 miles from my home and then run home, but the snow started and it would have been nasty. Then I was going to run it Friday and run loops on the lakefront path but by that time the ice and snow hit and the path was nasty. I scheduled it confidently for Sunday morning as my schedule was clear and surely by then the weather would pass, right? Nope. We had an ice storm all day and the streets and paths were slippy.

So I decided to get it in on Saturday. I ran 8 miles as I coached with my training team Chicago Endurance Sports and then headed back out and finished the next 10 miles. I was dreading it because the path was sort of plowed but still had a significant amount of snow and ice and it takes so much more energy to run on that stuff. It turned out to be a good run even though the conditions were still slippy. The sun was out which was a gift and the winds were relatively calm.

So, the moral of the story is to have several plans and routes in your pocket for winter running. You never know what is coming and it pays to have a lot of choices in your pocket.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

While I was

Running And Giving

2007-12-06T14:40:00.000-06:00

I'm just back from Randleman, North Carolina where we [John Bingham Racing] hosted the second Annual Run to Victory Half Marathon and 5 Miler. The race benefits Pattie & Kyle Petty's [NASCAR] Victory Junction Gang Camp. The Victory Junction Gang Camp enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun, and empowering, in a safe and medically sound environment. It truly is a magical place for the kids.

The first time I set foot on the camp I felt the positive energy. It is hard to describe but you just feel so darn good when you're there. The kids are having fun and you can "feel" it unveiling the layers of happiness inside. Last year we had about 600 run the race and raised $65,000. This year John set the goal to reach $100,000 and we not only reached his goal, but it came in well over $120,000.00! Thanks to all who supported the event and the camp. It is truly a wonderful opportunity for runners to run a tough and challenging hilly course all for a great cause! For those of you who are looking to Run and Give at a fantastic feel-good half marathon or 5 miler next year, put Sunday, December 7th, 2008 on your calendars.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

2007-11-26T09:46:00.000-06:00

It's been a long time since I've had such a perfect holiday weekend. There have been countless wonderful "parts" of holidays but never a perfect 10. From start to finish it was a wonderful blend of family, friends, running and relaxation.

It started with running the Turkey Trot in Chicago, a tradition that goes way back in my running years. We met up with our good friends Shari, Tom and Jill and headed to the start line. It was the first REAL cold day in Chicago with snow and wind and I welcomed it because I knew for the first time this season I wouldn't be overdressed:) We hugged, took our places in line (we all run at various paces) and reminded each other of the true goal at the finish...get to Shari and Tom's to warm up, celebrate and enjoy lox and bagels.

I ended up having a great race and pushed harder than I thought I would. The first 1.5 miles is important to push because it is on a wide road which then narrows to a path that can only handle 3-4 people across. Once on the path you are pretty much stuck with what you have... So, I pushed hard, felt great and passed a number of people...except for the girl in the boxer shorts. She was with me the entire race. We were exchanging places back and forth, she would pass me and then I would pass her. So, I used the little wisdom I've developed in the 40 years on this planet and sat on her shoulder for a few minutes until the last half mile and then took off. Feeling over confident and proud of my tactics I launched my finish line push and then got "the Tap." Its been a very long time since I felt the tap and I must admit it was the perfect strategy. The Boxer short girl tapped my shoulder. I looked back and she went flying right through so quickly I had no idea she passed and beat me to the finish line until it was all over. Brilliant. My competitive spirit was even proud of her! It was a fun day of running and one that I will remember for ever. I was grateful for a strong race and to share the morning with my wonderful friends. Life is good.

My brother and I ran a great 16 miler Friday. It was a personal record for him and the longest he's ever run in the history of Scott Hadfield! We set out from the north end of the Chicago Lakefront Path and ran south 16 miles to the 63rd Street Beach House. My husband John (the Penguin) crewed for us along the way which made things easier. A perfect way to get a long run in and see the beautiful Chicago lakefront too. I am super proud of him and can't wait to run the Disney Marathon with him in January.

I hope you had a wonderful holiday weekend.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Turkey Trotting And Other Seasonal Thoughts...

2007-11-19T14:55:00.000-06:00

I am sure for many of you the start of the winter running season begins when it snows or in December at the Winter Solstice. That makes perfect sense. For me, Winter running always kicks off with racing the local Chicago Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning.

It starts at 9am so there is plenty of time to sleep in and still get to the start. It is an 8K and plenty of miles (and Ks) to tackle before grazing those wonderful turkey day treats. But most of all, its a great way to socialize with the runners in the community and wish them a happy holiday. I consider the running community an extension of my family (the part that doesn't think I'm crazy for running!).

I look forward to this day almost as much as I look forward to the official start of the Spring running season (Shamrock Shuffle). On the surface, Winter running sounds just awful, but after a hot and humid Summer it sure is a treat to run in the cold temperatures. There is an honesty to running through Winter. The cold blustery days teach me exactly how strong or weak I am in my running phases and reminds me of the importance of mental strength.

There is also a solitude about running in the Winter. There are rarely other runners out there and in most cases its just me, the cool, crisp weather and the sound of my feet hitting the ground. It is a great way to defrag from the high intensity of the Summer season and run easy for a few months.

Like the change of seasons, our bodies need phases of training. It makes for an interesting and motivating year of running but it also allows our bodies to rest, train, perform at peak levels. So, as the leaves fall off the trees and I begin to set out my Winter apparel for the new season's workouts, I look forward to a fresh phase of running and one that will help me recover from the magnificent year I've had. Have a wonderful holiday weekend.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Creative Long Runs

2007-11-12T10:40:00.000-06:00

I am getting up in miles for my long training runs in preparation for the Disney Marathon. Although I am running the race with my brother, he lives in St. Louis so we aren't able to train together. I had to run 15 miles Friday and I just couldn't motivate myself to run along the lakefront path in Chicago. It is a great place to train as it runs 18 miles along the beautiful lakefront, but it is where I coach year-round and I am just plain burnt out on the course.

So, when the motivation and scenery is lacking, I add an element of adventure to spice things up. I decided to run home from the north shore. I mapped it out on the USATF map routing website and calculated where 15 miles north of our home is. Then had my husband John drop me off and ran home! It is my favorite way to get in a long run because every step brings you closer to your goal (home) and it includes a few great hills which are lacking in the city.

As I ran my way south towards the city, I navigated to find side streets with less traffic and quiet streets. It was a beautiful fall day and there was a nice tail wind to push me forward. Mixing up your terrain is the easiest way to bring new energy and excitement to your runs. Especially when you are running long...

My next long run I hope to run with my brother Thanksgiving weekend. It will give us a chance to catch up and learn each other's pace. It will be a 16 miler, and another good opportunity to run point to point. But this time I may have John drop us off on the south end of the lakefront path and run 16 of the 18 miles north to show off our beautiful city.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Soapbox Blog

2007-11-05T12:11:00.000-06:00

Excuse me while I get up on my soapbox...

Over the weekend a friend sent me this blog post on salon.com. You can read it by clicking on blog post in the last sentence. But beware, feelings of anger and thoughts of throwing something across the room may happen. :)

The Cliff Notes version is he writes about how Oprah, the Penguin and all the slower runners have wrecked the competitive spirit. He writes:

"With all these runners, and all this technology, you'd think America would be turning out faster and faster marathoners. Instead, the opposite is happening. The more we run marathons, the slower we get -- an average of 45 minutes slower over the last 25 years. Ryan Hall is the swiftest American-born marathoner ever. His best race isn't in the top 250 of all time."

He must not have done his homework when he wrote this blog on Friday because Ryan Hall beat the Marathon Trials record from the early 80s with an outstanding 2:09:02 on a very challenging, hilly Central Park course. And it was only his third marathon ever. That, and the top three men (Dathan Ritzenhein and Brian Sell) a spot on the Olympic Marathon Team are training on "Teams"sponsored by Nike, Brooks/Saturn, and Asics. These companies are investing in developing elite US marathon runners BECAUSE of the masses. And it is working.

He also fails to mention Deana Kastor who broke the American Marathon record and won a bronze medal in Athens. Little does he know that the elite runners are getting stronger because of the masses of mortal runners toeing the line at marathons. The elite runners are also the first ones to encourage mortals to run. They are by no means negatively affected by the slower runners. The larger the race, the larger the prize purse and sponsorship. Runners fast and not-so-fast contribute to their winnings.

It also hit a cord with me because he blames Oprah and the Penguin, who just happens to be my loving husband. I don't know Oprah but I love who she is and what she's done. Her marathon was all about transformation in her own life. And she ran it in a very respectable time too. John has spent the better part of 12 years motivating inactive people to get active and discover the runner within. With obesity creeping up to being the most deadly disease in the nation, getting people active is a very good thing.

And yes, the average finish times are slower than they were 20 years ago, but there were a mere 1,000 or fewer runners in marathons then too. The times are slower because there are 30,000 runners not 1,000! It simple math. Not to mention, had the author tried to run a marathon 20 years ago, he would have been in the back of the pack. Which is the group he is blaming for the dumming down of the sport. Speed is relative. Anyone who doesn't win the race is slow in a race. We're all slow so how can a 3:45ish marathon runner call a 4:30 marathon runner slow????

Today's runners fast and slow are motivating tomorrow's champions. The sons, daughters and even grand kids are watching their parents finish the race and that not only motivates them to run it also gives them permission to try. Life is short. Get out there and run, cycle, and be fit. And never let anyone tell you that you can't. Because being a marathoner is not about how fast you get to the finish, it is about having the tenacity to train, prepare and gather up the courage to show up at the start line. If you happen to run a faster time that is a bonus.

Getting down off my soapbox and going for a slow run...

Jenny

My Next Adventure

2007-10-29T11:51:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful weekend in Chicago. The weather was finally cool and crisp and perfect for a long run. We just launched our Winter Warriors program with a record sell out crowd and it is nice to be back on the trail this time of year. The path is peaceful, the weather is perfect and there are hundreds of new runners all training for their first half marathon. There is nothing like your first...

Speaking of firsts, my brother Scott has decided to train for his first marathon this year. I am speaking at the Disney Marathon this year and the family is coming too! He is doing very well with his training and we're going to run the race together in January. Funny, the last time we exercised together we were pretending we were professional football players in the backyard. Seems like just yesterday. We even had the black lines under our eyes for authenticity.

Anyway, I am proud of him for taking the challenge and excited to run with him. Disney is a very special place for our family. My mom and dad use to drive us down from Chicago to Orlando in the Spring and it was always an adventure. Funny how life comes full circle. Although we won't be driving this time, it will definitely be a great adventure. And one that will bring back all those magical childhood memories. I can't think of a better place for him to run his first marathon.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Recovering at 40...

2007-10-22T16:15:00.000-05:00

It is one week and a day post Ultra Marathon, and I am still sore. Typically, post marathon the soreness subsides in 3-4 days and the healing gradually happens over three weeks or so. I ran a short run on Friday and was surprised my right quad cramped up in the middle of the run. That, and I was walking like Frankenstein until Thursday which is timely because of Halloween. It worked out nicely...

I think I am recovering more slowly for a few reasons. A, I used a lateral stepping motion while racing up the steep trail hills in the Ultra Marathon. I hadn't done that step since Eco-Challenge and although my body knew how to do it, my muscles were a little taken back. They went along with it in the race but let me know they weren't happy with me after the race.

And two, I am simply getting older and it takes longer to recover when we age. I haven't really raced hard in a few years so I haven't noticed my aging body's demand for extra TLC, but I am listening and learning.

The good thing is there is an element of wisdom that comes with age that has taught me to listen and modify my training. I remember in the adventure racing world many of the athletes were in their 40-50s and would kick the butts of the whipper snappers on the course. They trained just enough and not too much and used their wisdom to outwit and out smart.

So as I learn what its like to train and race in my 40s, I will lean more heavily on my wit and wisdom and less on my quads.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

The Fire Inside

2007-10-15T10:26:00.000-05:00

Just back from Greenbush, Wisconsin and my very first Ultra-Marathon race, the Glacier 50K. I can honestly say I had no idea what to expect. Although I've run trails and competed in lots of races, I just didn't know how my body and mind would do Sunday. It's been a few years since I've "raced" an event and I was beginning to think I didn't have the "fire" inside me.

Well, I had enough fire to start a small forest fire Sunday. From start to finish it was a magical day and those don't happen very often. The drive up to Greenbush, Wisconsin was beautiful as the leaves are at their peak and fall is my favorite season. The weather was cool and rainy and the temps never rose above 50 degrees all day. A true gift after the 80-90 heat all month.

The race was an intimate experience and reminded me of the first few adventure races I did. About 100 runners towed the line at the start and I positioned myself cautiously at the back of the bubble. We hung out in the Greenbush Fire Dept until a few minutes before the start and then walked out a few hundred yards to the start. Another gift...We had about a half mile down the road and then hit the Ice Age Trail. A rugged single track trail with rocks and roots all under the cover of the leaves.

I took it out really slowly to make sure I finished and did so with a smile on my face rather than cramps in my quads. I was surprised at how "friendly" the runners were and listened to them chat for the first few miles. I met a runner with a picture on his back [pictured here] and asked him who she was.

"My running partner of 12 years," he said. He went on to tell me all they had done together and how she was in her fourth round of chemo for breast cancer. For me, it really put perspective on the day. I thought of my dad, who we lost last year from a brain tumor and his journey. It was the first time I could talk about him without falling into sadness. The miles went by as we discussed her spirit and the hope to some day find a cure for all cancers. My dad was with me every step...

As I reached 15.5 miles and the half-way turn around point many of the lead runners were coming back on the trail. The course is set up as an out-and-back. The competitor inside me [that fire I was referring to] starting tapping on my shoulder. "I know you are out here to finish, but if you push a little harder you can pass some of these nice runners." The first half of the race was all about conservation in the hopes of finishing and as I passed the half-way mark, the race became all about picking off runners [nicely] along the trail.

As the course rolled up and down [and up and down], the rocks seemed to multiply and the hills grew steeper [this is the elevation chart for the race].
I didn't remember that many rocks on the way out! It started raining and it quickly became more difficult to navigate over the slippery roots and rocks. My mind was growing tired of looking for the next spot to place my foot. One false step on a rock or root and you're down on your face. In fact, falling is a big part of ultra-running, especially as you fatigue.

Surprisingly, I was able to pass a few runners as I counted down the miles and then something [the fire] kicked in. The song "The Fire Inside" from Bob Seger came on my ipod and all hell broke loose. It is one of those songs that motivates me to leap tall buildings [or rocks in this case] in a single bound. My arms started moving faster and my legs followed. I passed a hiker with a cute dog and he yelled out, hey, you have about 7 runners just ahead if you push you can catch them. That is like telling me, hey, there is a sale going on at my favorite store and if you get there early enough you'll hit all the good stuff! I kept hitting the repeat button on my ipod and kept passing runners. What a high! As I finished up running my fastest mile of the race, I saw three men and a truck [the finish] and couldn't believe it was over already. Don't get me wrong, I was ready for it to be over at about mile 25.

It was a great race and a breaking moment in my life.
I've been stuck in a fog the past few years dealing with the loss of my father, grandmother and dog. Running this race cleared the fog and unveiled the trail ahead.

Getting off the beaten path unleashed the fire inside and for that, I am grateful.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Doomsday Scenario

2007-10-10T12:34:00.001-05:00

Unless you've been on a week long expedition in the wilds of the outback, I'm sure you've heard about the Chicago Marathon. We [Chicago Endurance Sports] had over 400 runners participating in the event and for me, it was like letting your kids go play in the middle of Death Valley in July. I couldn't help but be concerned for everyone. Outside the troubles with fluid on the course, it was an absolute brutal day to run a marathon. 70 degrees is considered hot for a marathon and running a marathon is hard enough without the heat. It was 88 degrees, 90% humidity! The only way you can get through it is to throw out your plan A, B, and C, and go with the Doomsday Scenario. That may sound negative, but running the marathon Sunday was all about surviving the heat. And our runners did just that.

They carried their water bottles, they brought money just in case and they slowed their pace. I am pretty darn proud of them. Although they are quite disappointed they didn't finish 26.2 miles [some did], they did finish the event on the day. Although it wasn't a traditional race, it WAS a marathon of an event.

So for those who ran or attempted to run the Chicago Marathon just remember this...

A marathoner is not made in a day.

A marathoner is made like a fine wine.

From long runs on the weekends and fartleks during the week.

From weeks and months of preparation and early Friday nights.

You were all aged to perfection and ready to run.

What makes a runner a marathoner is the will to prepare and the courage to show up on race day.

Hold your head high. There are plenty of marathons to tackle.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Running Canada

2007-10-03T20:05:00.000-05:00

Just back from a fabulously fun trip to Toronto. John and I were speaking at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon and we turned it into a fun adventure.

We had a little extra time on our hands and decided to take advantage and ride our motorcycles to Toronto. We took it easy and broke it into two days and stayed with our running friends Therese and Gary Grondin in Michigan. BTW, T, good luck this week in Maine!

We hit Toronto Thursday night, enjoyed dinner with our friend and owner of the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon Alan Brookes [pictured: John, Me and Alan] and settled in for race weekend. It is a lovely race that is flat and fast. So fast in fact the Canadian marathon record was shattered! A record that held for 31 years! The women's course record was also broken and you'll be amazed to read the "juggling while marathoning" Guinness World Record was broken too! Can you imagine running a 2:50:13 while juggling? I can't even imagine doing one at a time!

I ran the half as a training run for the ultra next week and had a great day. There is nothing like getting into your tempo and feeling strong on a great course on a great day!

This week is the Chicago Marathon. Chicago Endurance Sports has over 400 marathoners running on Sunday. Can't wait to cheer them on!

Happy Trails,

Jenny

The Beloved Bite Me Zone

2007-09-24T21:10:00.000-05:00

John and I have a loving description for those runs that really, well, um, urgh, SUCK! The runs that humble. The runs that make you feel less than. The runs that slow you down so much you think you are running backwards. We call these runs "Bite Me Zone" Runs. Because, well, you are in the Bite Me Zone some, if not all of the time.

I was running my last long 21 miler for the Ultra Saturday afternoon and I knew from the very first step it was going to be a tough one. I was tired from a 12-hour motorcycle ride we took Friday and felt as if my legs were not attached to my body the entire time. I think it was due to the fatigue from the ride, but who knows. I had to get it in Saturday, so I took my time and made the best of it.

One might think you would stop running after an episode like this one, but I think these runs help me more on race day than the easy runs do. I had to mentally run through Saturday's long run. I couldn't rely on just my body and tuning out to my iPod. I had to think my way through. And that is a gift I will take advantage of on race day in a few weeks. With or without the Bite Me Zone.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Chafing from hell...

2007-09-16T17:36:00.000-05:00

The weather is cool and crisp in Chicago this week and that means two things. One, running is a lot easier and my pace is faster without the heat and humidity. And two, the risk for chafing is much, much higher [much].

I was right in the middle of a phenomenal two hour trail run Friday afternoon when my legs started to rub like they were going to start a forest fire. The risk for chafing in cool, dry weather is much higher than the hot and humid weather because your sweat evaporates more readily and leaves a salty residue on your skin. Which in time, rubs like sandpaper and causes nasty chafing. I forgot to put on Bodyglide and I won't do that again any time soon!

There was nothing I could do...I tried water from my bottle, spit, moving my shorts around, and running on one leg with my eyes closed. I was stuck and had to run another hour back to the car while working up a chafing tattoo the size of a small car.

Despite not being able to walk normally all weekend, I had a great run. I am getting stronger on the trails and ready for my Ultra in October.

In my world it is officially fall as I enjoyed my first of many carmel apples last night.

Life is good.

Jenny

Goofy Training

2007-09-11T19:31:00.000-05:00

This one goes out to all those crazy runners who are starting to train for The Goofy Race and a Half Challenge in January. I ran the Goofy Challenge in 2006 and it really sounds "Goofy", but I must admit I had a ball training for it and even more fun running it!

The Goofy Challenge is a half marathon Saturday and a marathon Sunday! The best part though is the two tech shirts and the three medals you earn. You get a Donald Duck medal for the half, a Mickey Mouse medal for the full and a Goofy medal for running both in one weekend! It's all about the medal, isn't it?

I've created special Goofy Training Programs since I've gotten so many emails asking about how the heck do you train for this thing. You can find them HERE.

Sure its crazy to run a half and full in the same weekend...but aren't we all a little Goofy anyway?!?

Good luck and I will see you in January at Disney!

Jenny

Running Into Fall

2007-09-05T22:38:00.000-05:00

This is my favorite time of year to run and one of my favorite ways to close out the summer is at the Virginia Beach Rock n Roll Half Marathon. Every summer John and I spend the long holiday weekend working the event and it is always a treat! If you're in the market for a fun half marathon next year, put this one on your list. It is flat, includes a band every mile and the last two miles finish along the beach boardwalk. There is a music festival along the boardwalk and plenty of things to do. The headliner Beach Concert a few years ago was Journey [my favorite high school band]. Am I dating myself? The medal is pretty cool too!

I had a bonus day Sunday. I ran on the beach, hung out and caught a few rays and watched the wind surfers [amazing]. Funny, I'm always ready for fall after Labor Day Weekend. But that is what is so great about being a runner. We get to run right through all the seasons and experience them one step at a time.

Here's to carmel apples and colorful foliage!

Jenny

The Big Miles

2007-08-27T18:05:00.000-05:00

This time of year for long distance runners is what I can the Big Weeks. The Big Weeks are when our running mileage is at is longest and where the training is at its peak. And sometimes it is when I get a little cramby [or my family would say "crabbier than normal].

I ran a long trail run Thursday on a local trail. All in all it went well although it was very warm and humid. My body is acclimated to the heat, but I just can't keep up with the hydration on days like this. I finished looking like a wet dog.

I have a theory about long runs...there is always one and sometime two of the super long runs that are really challenging. My theory is that it happens to make sure we don't get too cocky about our training. A humble pie run has a way with making you respect the distance and prepare fully for race day. Ultimately, it is a good thing. It keeps me from dancing on tables the night before the race.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

Lucky Duck

2007-08-15T21:19:00.000-05:00

I was probably all of six or seven years old when I started organizing events. Big Wheel races down the block, hand stand contests, and of course the "who can ride their bike the longest with no hands" competition. So, as I stood next to my husband John Bingham at the start of the 2007 LaSalle Bank Chicago Distance Classic Half Marathon Sunday I was in tears.

It brought me back to what I love the most - movement and a great challenge with a few neighborhood friends. John bought the race in 2002 when there were about 2,000 runners and we've gradually built it up to over 11,800 - thanks to the wonderful Chicago running community.

I feel blessed to be able to do what I loved as a kid, share that with my husband and all the wonderful people we meet at the races. Thanks to all who have contributed to the success of this event.

Life is good.

Jenny

Tail of the Dragon

2007-08-06T21:22:00.001-05:00

This One's For Sam...

2007-08-06T21:05:00.000-05:00

It's been a wild and crazy few weeks. John and I took a week and rode our motorcycles out east to DC to see the grandkids [yes, I am a "grammy"], then off to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway. I just learned how to ride 2 years ago and absolutely fell in love with it. Perhaps it was due to my scootering days? I don't know...

Every summer I set out to try something "hard". That is, something that is outside my comfort zone. Two years ago it was learning to ride a motorcycle. Last year it was - hmmm, well I must have skipped last year. This year it was riding the Tail of the Dragon. The nation's best and most dangerous motorcycling road. 318 turns in 11 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains in NC and TN. The bonus is there is a tourist shop at the end so you can shop! Shirts like "I slayed the Dragon", Dragon Slayer... you get the point. Well, we didn't exactly "Slay" the Dragon but we sure got through it a few times. And we have the swag to prove it!

It's been a great summer and it's not even over yet. Who knows what next summer will bring. Right now, I'm just enjoying my Dragon Slayer shirt, pin, patch, stickers and of course my bragging rights. I believe they last for 318 days.

This blog goes out to a good friend and Chicago Endurance Sports runner, Sam Nelson. He is resting comfortably after heart surgery today. Sam, I'm counting the days until we can share the trails again. Get better soon...

Jenny

On the dotted line...

2007-07-11T21:53:00.000-05:00

Well, I did it. I committed to running my first Ultra-Marathon, the Glacial Trail 50K in October. It's been awhile since I've had the energy or time to train and dedicate myself to a race but there is no time like the present. I've gotten in a few strong long trail runs and can't wait to hit the course in the fall. It feels so good to be focused on a race again.

Truth is, I've been wanting to run an Ultra since my adventure racing years. I am more drawn to the serenity of the woods and the intrigue of a winding trail. Every turn makes me wonder what comes next.

John and I are heading on vacation next week on the Kyle Petty Charity Motorcycle Ride. I just recently learned how to ride a motorcycle (2 years ago) and absolutely love it! Perhaps it was from all those summer days as a kid testing the limits on my Schwinn, or that shiny red scooter I rode in high school... either way, I still can't believe I love to ride. It just goes to show you, life is like a trail, you never know what is around the next corner.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

The Dreaded ITB Syndrome

2007-07-02T16:36:00.000-05:00

ITB (Iliotibial Band) tightness is a common running injury among all levels of runners. The ITB is a band of tissue that runs from the gluteus down to the outside of the lower leg just beneath the knee. It's main role is to extend the leg and stabilize the leg while you run. It can be caused from overuse or drastic changes in training, inflexibility, worn out shoes or shoes that don't support your feet, cambered roads, and muscle imbalances. Signs and symptoms include pain on the outside of the knee or hip.

How to get back to running after ITB Syndrome:

* If pain exists, decrease your running mileage, cross-train or rest to reduce the risk of further irritation. Ice the area and review your running program for drastic increases in intensity, mileage or terrain changes. Try to identify what caused the pain to avoid it from happening again.

* ITB can be due to having weak gluteal and knee stabilizing muscles and muscle tightness. Incorporate total body strength and flexibility exercises - emphasizing your core, upper and lower body at least three times per week. Building balanced strength and flexibility will not only prevent ITB it will also improve your running form and efficiency. You will be more successful in your journey back to running if you properly address specific weaknesses and muscle imbalances.

* Gradually get back to running by testing the waters first. Doing too much too soon can increase the time of recovery. After a 5-minute walking warm-up, run a few 30-40 second easy paced sprints on even terrain and walk back to recover between each one. If you have pain, continue to rehab and rest. If not, continue with the next step.

* Warm up walking briskly for 5 minutes. Run at an easy pace for 20-25 minutes and finish with a 5-minute walking cool down and flexibility exercises. Repeat this running workout on alternate days [i.e. M-W-F] 4-5 times. Cross-train on the days in between to maintain your cardiovascular fitness. If there is no pain present before, during or after the run add 10 minutes to the run next time.

* Gradually add minutes to your runs as your body allows. Every time you increase minutes hold what you have for 3-5 more running sessions until you reach your normal running regimen. This will avoid risk for re-injury and doing too much too soon. Alternate your run days with either rest or cross-training for the first four weeks back to running.

* Avoid adding speed or hill workouts until you are symptom free for at least 6 weeks and have rebuilt an adequate base of mileage.

* If pain returns, take 3-4 days off, continue to focus on cross-training, strengthening and flexibility and try, try again. Your body will recover and be stronger and less likely to develop ITB again.

* Be cautious about running on tracks, down hills and on crowned and uneven surfaces as it can contribute to ITB. All of these can contribute to developing ITB. Running on softer surfaces is more fore giving on the body and may be an easier for the transition back to running.

* Perform self massage/release techniques with a foam roll or The Stick to help release the tight tissue and decrease tension on the band. If possible, schedule a deep tissue/friction massage biweekly or monthly.

* Practice patience and go perform each workout with a goal in mind. If you're wise, every run will be one step closer to a complete and successful return. You may be surprised...and turn a negative into a positive and come back much stronger!

I love it when my body adapts

2007-06-27T11:02:00.000-05:00

It happens every summer. We go from winter to summer in a matter a days and I find myself feeling just crummy during my hot weather runs. I've really been struggling the past two weeks running as it's been pretty darn warm for June in Chicago.

I keep repeating the hot weather mantra to remind myself that my body needs time to acclimate and adapt to running in the heat. It is very much like acclimating to the altitude, only it involves the body cooling itself rather than learning to function with less oxygen. It's plain and simple. My body simply needs to make friends with summer.

Well, today I am happy to report I bonded with Summer. I ran in 82 degree heat, which doesn't sound bad until you include the humidity at 90%! It was hot and I was happy. Not only was I able to run, but I ran a pretty descent Tempo pace too. Giddyup!

So my friends, if you are struggling with running in the heat and humidity take note...your body will adapt after about 2 weeks of running in warmer conditions. It will only do so if you are outdoors running in it and allowing your body to get really efficient at cooling the body. Until it does, take it slow and easy and repeat my mantra. "Slow and steady until my body makes friends with the heat."

For more on learning to run in the heat visit my blog on Runnersworld.com
Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Cicada Madness

2007-06-15T21:39:00.000-05:00

Okay, I promise this will be my last mention of cicadas for a few more decades. I can't help but be completely amazed at these exotic-alien like insects that grace us with their presence once every 17 years. For those that aren't in the midwest, the cicadas are insects with big red eyes on the side of their heads and transluscent wings. At first they are scary looking and then you kind of warm up to them (at least I did). They are one of the most widely recognized of all insects, mainly due to their large size and remarkable (and often inescapable) acoustic talents.

I have been on the trail all week mountain biking and running to the symphony of the cicadas. It is so loud, I couldn't even hear my ipod so I turned it off and just took it all in. What a gift. I can't remember the last time they were here, but I know I will remember this time because I was doing something I love.

The truly amazing part to me is they only live for a few weeks. Trillions of cicadas live underground sucking the sap off trees for 17 years. They hatch and emerge out of the ground for only a few weeks. They climb up trees and transform themselves from nymphs to adults. The next few weeks of their lives are focused on their sole purpose - to reproduce. The males sing in chorus and the males and females take flight "to get to know one another better". The females lay their eggs in tree branches and then they die. The eggs hatch and the babies fall from the trees and burrow into the ground, not to be seen again for another 17 years.

I can't help but think life is short and you have to live like a cicada and make the most of the time you have here. I never thought a trail run with insects could be so profound, but I guess that is really what it is all about... Oh, and if you want to watch a cool video about it click HERE.

Happy Trails,

Jenny

NEW! Read the new "Ask Coach Jenny" blog on Runnersworld.com

Happy Trails

2007-06-11T10:30:00.000-05:00

It has been awhile since my last post. I finished up a long spring of travel and just needed some defrag time on the laptop. Thanks for your patience.

The good news is I have been catching up on my trail runs and feeling like I have a strong base again. Travel is tough on the running schedule. You can still run, but the quality is not the same. I am happy to be back in the saddle again.

Around here the big news is the cecadas. They are insects that come around every 17 years to reproduce and lay their eggs. You can see them everywhere and hear them too! It makes me think about the last time I saw them. I was 23 and just starting my running career... that made me feel pretty darn good - I've been a runner for 17 years. I never thought I could be a runner. It just goes to show you, never say never. The view is much better when I'm running. Life is good.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

NEW! Read the new "Ask Coach Jenny" blog on Runnersworld.com

40 Years...

2007-04-18T10:34:00.000-05:00

Well, today is my 40th birthday. Although the past few weeks have been turbulent thinking about it, I feel just fine now that the magic day is here.

Wrinkles did not appear over night. Not any more at least.

There are no signs of memory loss. At least I can't remember any.

And I can still run with a smile on my face. It just takes me a little longer to recover.

Perhaps my fourth decade will be the best of all. There is no telling what the forties will bring. I am just glad it is here and I can stop worrying about turning forty and begin to enjoy BEING forty.

Life is good.

Jenny

The 3-Week Rule

2007-04-05T12:37:00.000-05:00

As a coach and a trainer I've always preached the 3-Week Rule. That is, it takes 21 days (3 weeks) to create a new habit, change a bad habit or progress to another level. I develop most of my running programs based on this rule and use it within my own training regimen as well.

Coming home from Antarctica three weeks ago was quite the challenge. It was not quite spring, the weather was still icky and I was feeling less than fit. 10 days on a ship + days in planes, trains and automobiles left me with a lower base of miles than I like. So, what is a girl to do? I took out my planner and circled April 4th on my calendar in bold red marker. It was exactly three weeks away.

Guess what? After 3 Weeks of regular running, strength training and flexibility (and a nice massage too) I feel like my old-new self again.

This time of year is challenging. Especially for those of us that may have been off the wagon in terms of activity. If this is the case for you, circle a day three weeks from now, vow to be active most days a week and wait. You too will feel better with the 3-Week Rule.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

The Right of Spring

2007-03-28T10:27:00.000-05:00

Well it has been an incredible month of travel. Three weeks in Antarctica with 200 runners for the 2007 Antarctica Marathon and Half Marathon. I worked on the crew that produced the race and got to ride ATVs to set up the course. An adventurous few weeks to say the least.

Then I ran a marathon in Ushuaia, Argentina called Fin Del Mundo or in english, the End of the World. Many beautiful miles in their national forest and snow-capped mountains all around us. I am a little embarassed to say I placed 2nd in my age group (there were only 4 women in my age group:) and received a trophy so large I couldn't fit it in my suitcase. A running memory I will always charish.

Then I was off to sunny Tucson and the Valley of Gold Half Marathon. This is one of the most beautiful races I've been to and rolls through the valley at the base of the Catalina Mountains. We had lovely weather and sun and it was a nice way to thaw out from the expedition.

Sunday, I met about 200 of our Chicago Endurance Sports runners take part in Chicago's Right of Spring, the Shamrock Shuffle 8K. Over 30,000 runners all running for the finish. Can you blame them? There is beer, music and a great t-shirt.

There is a race in every town that launches the running season. Ours is the Shuffle, and after a long winter it sure was great to move closer to warmer weather and the hope of longer miles.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Antarctica Marathon

2007-02-12T15:52:00.000-06:00

Wow, what a month. Its been awhile since my last blog, sorry.

I've been to Arizona for the RnR Marathon, to Disneyworld for the marathon, Toronto to train a great group of marathon coaches and the sunny city of Miami to cheer on my team from Chicago Endurance Sports in the Miami Half Marathon. Its good to be home for a few days and get back to a schedule.

John and I are leaving for Antarctica Sunday night. This is one of my favorite trips and I truly believe it is the closest thing to the moon that we'll ever see. We will be crew for the Antarctica Marathon which is put on by Marathon Tours. 200 runners from all over the world will board a Russian Research ship in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world's southernmost city. It will take over 2 days to get to Antarctica on water and we'll cross the world's most turbulent seas.

This will be my third time on the expedition even though I am not very good on boats. I get seasick in the back of a car! Iget sick every time, but it is so worth it. I can't get enough! The runners will use the ship as the hotel for 10 days. The race is on King George Island on the second day we arrive (if weather permits) and then we set sail to kayak with the whales, site see with penguins, mountains and sea lions... It is the most peaceful trip a runner can take. No phones, no Blackberry, no email or internet. Just nature, a few hundred really nice runners and one of the toughest marathon courses in the world!

I've attached a great photo of the last trip when we hosted a Kayak race and a school of penguins decided to join in and race with us! The penguins are real and are not photoshopped into the picture:) The first year a whale raced in the kayak race. We gave him bib number 1! See you in a few weeks.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

DNF

2007-01-14T11:24:00.000-06:00

Those three letters are not the most fun to write. Did not finish... I chose to not run the Goofy Challenge even though I was ready physically. It was a tough decision, but ultimately I think I decided right.

I was a t a point where I was just getting back into my long runs and had several really strong back to back long runs in the fall in preparation for Goofy. Goofy is running the Disney Half Marathon Saturday and the full marathon on Sunday. To train, I run half the distance of my Saturday long run on Friday. Sounds awful but it is a great way to prepare to tackle Goofy and the body really does respond well if you mix in cross-training, strength and flexibility to recover.

Anyway, on December 20th we put my Nan (grandma) in hospice and she passed away December 31, 2006 at the age of 100 years. Although we celebrated her long life, it still took a toll on my training during the taper and more importantly my emotions. I went from being super excited to tackle Goofy, to not wanting to run it at all. Very weird...

I think it was the total sum of losing my father, my dog and my gram in just a short few months. I thought briefly about running the race in memory of them, but I couldn't pull it together emotionally. I still believe I will do that later this year.

Goofy will be there next year and I will train and toe the line again. btw, if you want to race Goofy it sells out quickly. You should stay tuned to the Disneyworld Marathon website and sign up when it opens.

I ran the 5K with my family (John my husband, mom, sister and nephew Alec). We had a ball at Diseyworld and in the end it was a very tough day for a marathon or even half. 85 degrees and very humid. A huge congratulations goes out to all the marathoners (and halfers) and Goofies that reached the start and finish line that day. It was a brutal day and your bragging rights should be extended!

Happy Trails,

Jenny

A Holiday Run

2006-12-21T11:47:00.000-06:00

We (Chicago Endurance Sports) hosted an easy run last night as part of the half marathon training program for the Miami Half in January. We decided to run the course through the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago and through the Lights Festival because it was rainy and damp and we knew there wouldn't be a large crowd to navigate through. And it is fun and FREE!

What was going to be a nasty run in the damp, icky rain turned out to be a holiday treat! There were ice sculptors, lights and even the animals came out to wave to us.

It was a night to remember for sure. And a lesson learned...the best runs usually come in the worst packages. Some of my favorite runs have been in the worst weather conditions or on those days where I haven't felt very much like running.

Happy running holidays...

Coach Jenny

Feeling Goofy....

2006-12-16T12:57:00.000-06:00

Okay, today I confirmed (with myself) I am going to run the Goofy Challenge again this year. John and I ran it last year and I just loved it. I wasn't sure whether I would get in the miles needed to be officially Goofy, but I have. So, I am Goofy about racing Goofy and it is only a few prescious weeks away.

The Goofy Challenge is a Disney Sports Event. You run the Disneyworld Half Marathon Saturday (and earn a Donald Duck Medal). You run the Disneyworld full Marathon Sunday (and earn a Mickey Mouse Medal). Together, half and full you finish as Goofy as they come and you earn a Donald, Mickey and Goofy medal. We all know it's all about the medals!!!

I won't be alone either. Last year, the brilliant Disney folks came up with the idea thinking maybe 300 people would do it. Well, 3,000 people later.... If you build it they will run!

So,I am feeling Goofy today. I have very fond memories of my father carrying me on his shoulders through the Magic Kingdom. This year, he will be on mine as I run through the Magic Kingdom...TWICE!

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Preventing the Holiday Five

2006-12-13T08:21:00.001-06:00

They say the average American gains five to seven pounds during the holidays. That is not hard to do these days. All it takes is inactivity and overindulgence and boom, your gift from Santa is a larger pair of pants.

I have a strategy for the holidays, especially this year. I have been creeping up a few pounds more than I want to be and whenever that happens I use Fitday.com. It is a free online software program that allows me to keep my calories in balance just like a checkbook. I enter in what I eat during the day, I add my running, cross-training and strength workouts and it gives me a runnig balance of what is going in versus out. I know if I am spending too much (eating too many calories), too much fat, or not enough nutrients. It is the best way for me to get back into reality. Plus, it gives me a breakdown of percentages of carbohydrates, proteins and fat. This is great for a runner!

These days it is so easy to over eat, or over spend as I like to say. Portions are out of control and as a society we have to move less and less each year. Keeping tabs on my "In and Out" inventory keeps me honest. I am back to my fighting weight again and more aware of my choices. In most cases, I begin to gain weight when I am not paying attention to what I am eating. One cookie becomes two, one serving doubles and my one sweet per week rule somehow changes to sweets every other day. Using Fitday.com allows me to get focused and back on track. It typically takes 2-3 weeks and I am back to reality again.

There are a lot of online fuel logs, but I happen to like this one. It is easy to use and free! What is better than that?

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

The Magic Rock

2006-12-10T22:38:00.000-06:00

I had the pleasure of running with Anna Saturday morning during our long run for the Chicago Endurance Sports Winter Warriors Program. The team is training for the Miami Half Marathon and we got a break with weather that was sunny and in the 30s! Anything above 30 in the Chicago winters is a gift.

Anyway, back to Anna. It was a special morning for her. It was her wedding day...and she chose to share it with her running buddies. Anna ran her first half marathon with CES back in March, when the team traveled to the Valley of Gold Half in Tucson, Arizona ( a John Bingham Racing event).

On that trip, I hosted a hike in the Catalina Mountains the day before the race to see the sites, work off a little pre-race gitters AND show them the rock where John proposed to me. When we got to the Magic Rock, I told the story of how he carried the ring in his pocket until he got to this rock and sat me on it and bent down on one knee and proposed. All the girls in the group began rubbing the rock (the single girls, that is) for good luck and we all giggled.

Well, I am happy to report Anna got engaged to Seth, husband seven weeks after rubbing that rock and there are two other girls in that group that are in relationships. Happy wedding day Anna and Seth!

I believe in Karma. And now I believe in that Magic Rock!

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Spitfire

2006-12-08T09:40:00.000-06:00

This is a little embarassing to write, but thought it might be useful information. Last night I was setting out running gadgets and winter clothes for my next long run and found a keychain canister of Spitfire which I used for safety when walking our dog Bear and on some runs. Spitfire is a handy device you can carry with you and sprays pepper spray in the case of an assault.

Curiosity got the best of me and I started to push the button just to see if it still worked (dumb). Well, it worked and it worked on ME! Let me tell you it is not fun at all and would really have an affect on someone coming a little too close to you! I had it everywere. It was in my eyes, my sinuses, and I was sneezing and crying for hours.

So, if you ever wondered if pepper spray works, it does folks. Just make sure to try it outside and spray it away from yourself.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Running on Ice

2006-12-07T09:37:00.000-06:00

Well, we came home from North Carolina to wind chills below zero and snow and ice. Although I love running on treadmills in the winter, I really need to get my butt outside and run to prepare for the Antarctica Marathon in February. The course could have anything from ankle deep mud to snow ice and sleet. It is unusual, but I have perfect training grounds for this race.

I am using Nike Air Pegasus Clima-Fit shoes as they offer a more durable sole for traction and have water resistant properties which help keep my feet warm and dry. I also use a product called Yak Trax which easily slip on my shoes and provide more traction in the snow and ice. If you run in the snow and ice, these tools make a big difference in safety.

Some things I've found to be helpful when training through the winter are...

-If it is cold and challenging terrain, take it easy and run slower. The conditions are not suitable for setting personal records or getting in that speed workout. I always run my speed on a treadmill when it drops below 35 degrees. It is less risky in injuring something and provides a better quality workout too.

-I shorten my stride and keep my feet lower to the ground to prevent slipping and falling.

-I wear reflective clothing, flashing lights and a headlamp in the dark to make sure I am visible and can see where I am headed.

-I keep my body relaxed when running on ice and snow as my natural tendency is to tighten up. This can cause your hips and inner and outer thighs to be sore and become tight post run. Plus, if I am tight running over that stuff, I am a higher risk for falling.

-I always take a hot shower before a long run and use a foam roller to warm and loosen my muscles before heading out in the cold. In temperatures colder than 30, I wear a pair of tights as a first layer and windproof shell pants over them to keep my legs warm. Keeping your legs warm will reduce the risk of injury by keeping the legs warm.

These tips have kept me running through the cold Chicago Winters safely and successfully. Even when I would rather be in watching Ellen on a treadmill.

Run Safely...

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Victory Junction Run

2006-12-05T09:31:00.000-06:00

We are just back from a truly amazing event weekend. We were in Randleman, North Carolina for the Innaugural Victory Junction Half Marathon Run. An event to benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp. The Victory Junction Gang Camp enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun, and empowering, in a safe and medically sound environment. The Camp was founded by NASCAR driver Kyle Petty and his wife Pattie, in honor of their son Adam.

The Camp is operated purely on donations of kind people like the runners in this event. The Camp is run on the spirit of life. From the Camp Staff to the volunteers that come from all over the world, it is a truly inspirational and special Camp. More than 700 runners toed the line on race morning, running a challenging yet rewarding half marathon course. Plus, they all got a "high-five" at the finish from Kyle and Pattie Petty!

I had tears in my eyes most of the day. Not because I was sad, but because the generosity of the human spirit is far greater than we can all imagine. We raised over $65,000 this year and I am sure we will double that next year.
Victory Junction Run

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Training Through the Cycles of (a Girl's) Life

2006-11-28T14:23:00.000-06:00

Okay guys, this post is geared to the girls. Sorry, I will post one for guys soon. Maybe cool running gadgets or something like that.

Every month, about 5-7 days prior to my cycle starting, running gets really hard. My breathing is more labored, I sometimes feel like I have never run before and my legs are like lead. I had one of those runs today as I am in the ZONE, as I like to call it. So, I thought I would share.

Magically, when the PMS Zone is over it is like something out of Harry Potter movie, the spell breaks and I can run and train again almost effortlessly.

The wizard in me decided one season to begin to track the changes day to day. I wrote down every workout how I felt, where I was in my cycle and began to notice a trend. There was no need for scientific data, it was all right there in front of me.

My heart rates were 10 beats or higher in runs during the 5-7 days prior to menstruation [PMS] and would drop to normal rates once I began to menstruate.

My breathing was more labored both in easy runs and hard or long runs during PMS and much easier during menstruation and the rest of the cycle.

My motivation to train was lowered during PMS and found it more challenging to get the runs in.

I was much more fatigued during PMS and slept and napped more often.

From a dietary standpoint, I bet you’ll be surprised to find out I craved sweets during PMS too.

The following tips are just a few ways to take advantage of the cycles of training and improve performance.

• Monitor your cycle and keep track of your strong and efficient phases as well as your more challenging times of the month.
Include heart rate, effort levels (perceived), mood, motivation levels, speed, distance, climate and diet habits. Review it and familiarize yourself with the high and low periods of your cycle.

• Plug your cycle dates into your daily planning system or training schedule. It will be easier to better plan and adapt effort levels and intensities week to week, and even plan races around the highs and lows. At the very least, you will know when to expect the more challenging days of the month.

• If possible, try to schedule your “key” training sessions during the stronger times of your cycle. Cut back or ease up effort levels during the challenging and symptomatic phases of your cycle. This could mean running your long runs a little slower, or running an easy run instead of a scheduled hard run.

• If your motivation runs low, schedule runs with a friend. In most cases, you will run if you plan it ahead of time and they will keep you motivated.

• PMS symptoms have been linked to poor dietary habits and low levels of magnesium, which affects blood sugar levels and hormonal metabolism. Include foods rich in magnesium, B-Complex and calcium in your diet [dairy, green leafy veggies, whole grains, nuts, fish, beans are just a few]

• Maintaining a fuel and activity log (online) can be very useful in tracking the quality going in (food) and the quantity going out (running). Free online logs like www.FitDay.com allow you to enter your daily activity as well as your fuel day to day and analyze the balance. This is a great way to make small changes that will make a great difference in your performance.

• Although some women go as far as adjusting their cycles to match their strong days of the month (typically days 9-12 and 17-20) with hormones, it is best to check with your doctor before doing so.

• About one-third of all Olympic gold medals were won during menstruation. Two-thirds were won one week after cessation of menstruation. That proves it. It is not a burden, but rather a part of our cycle that allows us to excel. If you are scheduled to have your cycle on race day be prepared. There are plenty of fanny packs to carry products. You can also tape it to the back of your race number. In an emergency, stop at the medical station as they will have a supply of feminine products.

• Take care of yourself nutritionally, use Tylenol 8-hour for pain during the race (safest pain medication for endurance athletes) and go into the race with an open mind. You just may have the race of your life!

Home Sweet Home

2006-11-26T17:18:00.000-06:00

It has been a few weeks since my last post. I've been enjoying being home and off the road for a bit. We travel again this week to the inaugural Victory Junction Gang Run, a half marathon we created with Kyle Petty (and family) to benefit the Victory Junction Camp.

I am currently training for the Antarctica Half Marathon in February and a marathon in Tierra del Fuego (the End of the World) in March. It is a two-week expedition that include two marathons, kayaking with whales and a lot of sightseeing. A once in a lifetime trip. John and I are crew for the expedition and love the journey. It is truly the closest thing to the moon we will ever see.

The marathon is very hilly, on a dirt road and can be very, very very cold and windy or mild and very, very, very muddy. Once I raced it with hip deep snow in areas. The second time we ran through ankle deep mud. Running the Antarctica Marathon is like a box of chocolates...You never know what you are going to get.

I am training on trails, hill work on a treadmill and lots of strength training. It feels good to be back in training mode. Especially after a full week of holiday mode.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Eating My Words...

2006-11-10T19:01:00.000-06:00

I believe in karma, good and well, not-so-good. I was interviewed today by a reporter in Austin, Texas on running through the winter. We had a great chat about tips and tools runners can use to train through the challenging winter days. At one point she asked about what to do about the cold days, "because down here it gets can be 40-45 and rainy - hypothermia weather". I answered her with a few tips and then told her that in Chicago, that would be a warm welcome. After all, we train on single degree days and below zero wind chills.

Well, not 30 minutes later I headed out the door to do my long run along the Chicago Lakefront path. About 3 miles into a 10 miler, the wind picked up (25-30 mph), it started pouring rain and guess what, it was 40 degrees! I was chilled to the bone and all I kept thinking was I wish I had that reporters number to tell her about how much I suffered. I am sure she would get a kick out of it especially because I made light of that weather.

To be honest, a run in 35-40 degrees and rain is far worse than running in 15-25 degrees and dry or even snow. It chills you to the bone. As they say "be careful what you wish for" as I was handed a full dose of humble pie today.

It was a good reminder of what is ahead this winter. I tip my hat to all the runners in Austin, Texas.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Marathon Month

2006-10-14T05:58:00.000-05:00

October is a busy time for marathoners. You can find a marathon every week of the month, anywhere in the world. The long summer days allow for a perfect training season and the cool fall mornings set the stage for perfect marathon weather.

Today is the last long run for the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon group I coach in Chicago (Chicago Endurance Sports). Their bodies are fit and their minds anxious. It has been rewarding watching them progress and grow stronger through the season. They are ready to rumble...

The week before a marathon is a special time in a runners life. Pre-race week is a time when nerves set in no matter how many you've run and when you begin to question what to wear, what to eat and whether you've trained hard enough. I always have nightmares the week before a marathon. I get lost on the course, end up on the fifth floor of Macy's and have to cab it back to the marathon course.

Nerves, nightmares and anxious thoughts are all part of the journey folks. Especially for first timers because you are about to set sail on a journey you've never known. Like many firsts, it is the fear of the unknown that really fuels the energy. Whenever I get nervous pre-race, I think of time when I was really nervous and how it turned out in the end. Like racing Eco-Challenge, Borneo. It was my first expedition length adventure race (8-10 days) and it was being held in the jungles of Malaysia where "leeches" and "snakes" vacation. I heard so many stories about leeches I was a basket-case pre-race. But in the end, the fear of the leech was much worse than the reality.

You know you can run a long way because you did it in training. You know you are prepared because you witnessed your body adapt to the training week to week. And you know you are going to look good in that finish line photo!

It helps to take a look at the marathon course and break the distance up into smaller, more digestible pieces. Get familiar with where you will run. Go with what you know this week. Stick to similar meals, hydration and race day habits.

Race day is about celebration. Whether you are going for a better finish time or reaching for your first marathon medal, enjoy the journey because it will be over before you know it.

Run strong...

Coach Jenny

Garmin Forerunner GPS Watch

2006-10-03T18:17:00.000-05:00

Holy cow I love my life. I was recently asked to test drive the new Garmin Forerunner GPS watch. It is the coolest running toy and a great motivator. Especially if you are into numbers.

The Garmin Forerunner links to the satellites and measures your speed and distance from above. No more driving in the car and measuring how far you went. No more pacing problems. The Forerunner gives you your pace while you run so there is no way to run too fast. Well, unless you just run too fast!

There is also a feature that is allows you to train against a "buddy". You set the pace for the buddy and keep up to it while you run. A great way to motivate yourself on those grueling gray days.

It is very easy to use and even downloads your data to your computer. For those that are into mapping features, you can even see your course on a satellite map!

It is on the top of my favorite things list and a great present for a runner or walker.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

What Shall I Wear?

2006-09-28T10:54:00.002-05:00

What to wear on those cool fall runs? I go through this every fall. In fact, it is my favorite time of year. The leaves show their brilliant colors, the crisp, cool days and the quest for the perfect caramel apple.

I have been running for years. You would think I would have this process down. Not true. Every fall, I have to figure out what to wear, how much or too little to wear on those crisp fall runs. I typically start out with too many layers fearing I will be cold then spend the entire run shedding layers. By the time I am finished, I have so many layers of clothing wrapped around my body I can't even move! I typically get it down to an outfit by the fourth or fifth cool run.

I try to follow these tips when figuring out what to wear on those cool fall runs...

-You should feel "chilled" at the start of your run. If you are toasty warm, you have too many layers on and will over heat.

-Dress for 15-20F degrees warmer than it is. If it is 40 degrees, dress for 55-60 degrees. That will allow for your increase in body temperature when running.

-Fall running clothes are cute and fun to shop for. When you buy something new, give an old piece away. Otherwise, you will end up spending all your time deciding which shirt or tights to wear rather than running in them!

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Two Out of Three Ain't Bad...

2006-09-25T19:44:00.000-05:00

Well, just arrived home from Toronto. John and I were in town for the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. I spoke at the Expo Friday and Saturday and had plans to run the half marathon Sunday.

One of my goals this season was to run three half marathons instead of one marathon. I thought that would be realistic since my base is not very strong this fall. I ran the Disneyland Half last weekend. I was going for the Scotiabank this weekend and conclude with the new Rock n Roll San Jose in October.

I woke up Sunday morning feeling as if I got hit by a semi-truck. So, needless to say I did not run. I've learned the hard way in life that running through illness does not turn out very well in the end. Plus, my photo finish always looks awful...

San Jose is the next stop. Keeping my head high and putting one foot in front of the other.

Coach Jenny

The Happiest Race on Earth...

2006-09-17T11:26:00.000-05:00

I have very fond memories of Disneyworld. My mom and dad would load the three kids in the van at 2am and drive straight through from Chicago to Orlando. We called it Disney or BUST! We wouldn't be three miles down the road when one of us would ask "how much farther is it?" I am sure we drove our parents crazy with the Sound of Music eight-track playing over and over. We could NOT wait to explore the wonderful world of Disney.

When they created the first Walt Disney World Marathon in 1994, I think I was one of the first people to register! It is a great way for an adult to have as much fun as a kid for a weekend. That was more than 10 years ago and the Disney people keep creating wonderful races.

John and I were invited to speak at the Inaugural DisneyLAND Half Marathon this weekend in Anaheim, CA. I have been counting the days until this event, and although my training has been less than optimal, I ran it at an easy pace and had a ball on the course. It is the only race where you can dress up like a character for the weekend and not have people look at you funny. You can bet this running girl has a new pair of golden ears...

The Disneyland Half Marathon is a very well organized event with loads of music and entertainment. We ran through all the theme parks, down the Santa Ana Trail by the river, through the scenic streets of Anaheim with mountains in the distance and around the bases in the Anaheim Angels MLB Team. All that and a high-five from Mickey and Minnie and the finish.

What is better than that?

Coach Jenny

Back in the Saddle Again

2006-09-12T11:44:00.000-05:00

Well, it was a tough run this morning. Although I have been running pretty regularly lately, I think the emotional turmoil is taking a toll. I felt like I was running with a 80-pound backpack on...

It confirms that when we run, we do so with our body, our mind and our spirit. All of which must work together to move us efficiently forward. I knew it would be a tough run, but by the end I felt much better. Sometimes the hardest runs are the most rewarding in the end.

Coach Jenny

A Girl's Best Friend

2006-09-11T11:02:00.000-05:00

Saturday we had one last walk with BEAR, our 16-year old dog. Bear was an 8-pound black poodle-shitzu mix and loved to run and fetch. He earned his name because his spirit was as big as a Bear.

He had a great life and was my best buddy. He studied with me in college, rode in my backpack and cheered on runners, and even beat a greyhound dog in the local Bark in the Park 5K. He was even assistant Crew with John when I raced a 24-hour solo adventure race in the UP. He put in a lot of miles with a lot of friends and will be missed greatly.

I plan on hosting a Hike in Bear's memory in the fall. He use to be the herding dog for my Hike Like a Girl clinics and would always make sure everyone front to back of the pack was safe.

The timing on this couldn't have been any worse, but I believe my father is going for daily walks with Bear somewhere over the rainbow.

As for me, my running life has been on hold for awhile and been in what I refer to as "maintenance" mode. I feel a challenge coming on soon. I am not sure what that means, but I will keep you posted.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

This Run is for You Dad

2006-09-02T09:51:00.000-05:00

Many of you know my father has been struggling with an inoperable brain tumor for just under a year. I am torn in writing that his struggle is over and he is at peace. He passed away August 30th with his family at his side.

He was a courageous man who's spirit to live life to its fullest carries on in me every day. I have learned many lessons from my father but my favorite is to make the most out of today. There are no guarantees for a tomorrow.

Today I will run for him. He enjoyed hearing stories of where running took me and what I saw along the journey. This run is for you dad. Your life is your legacy...

Coach Jenny

Side Stitches

2006-08-27T13:08:00.000-05:00

I was finishing up a long run with my marathon team yesterday when all of a sudden a painful side stitch developed. There are many theories as to why stitches develop from irregular, rapid breathing to spasms in the diaphram, the major muscle responsible for breathing. In either case, there is a secret to getting rid of side stitches quickly.

My stitch was located in my left side. While running, focus on exhaling when the right foot (or opposite foot from the stitch) hits the ground. Not every time the foot hits the ground, but when you do exhale do so when the opposite side foot strikes the ground. It is also helpful to slow down and get your breathing under control. This trick usually gets rid of that stitch in seconds. It is amazing. It allows the musculature (diaphram) on the stitch side to relax and release the spasm that is causing the stitch.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Run Like a Kenyan

2006-08-21T11:19:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of running and coaching Daniel Cheruiyot, a Kenyan runner who races for John Bingham Racing. We were in Tucson preparing for the Arizona Distance Classic and he asked me to go for a run with him. At first I chuckled, thinking yea, right, I am going for a run with a Kenyan runner. No way... Then he explained to me that he was running SLOW. I chuckled again and thought, yea, slow for a Kenyan runner is still too fast for me. He assured me it would be okay and we headed out the door.

While on the run I asked him what his typical slow pace was and he replied 8:00 minute miles. I was shocked! He runs sub 5 minute per mile pace in races and his slow pace was 3 minutes slower. Wow! He also added that most American runners, especially new runners, train too hard and too fast. I've always known the benefits of truly training easy on easy days, but this was a true testament that it works.

So, on your next "easy" run, truly take it easy. Make sure you can have a conversation and aren't gasping for air. If you are using a heart rate monitor, hang around 65-70% of your max or at a pace that is very comfortable. Because running easy allows you to run hard.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Running Negative

2006-08-17T12:20:00.000-05:00

It is August in Chicago and a time when all you see on the Lakefront path is runners training for the Chicago Marathon. Although I am not training for Chicago this year (Our team, Chicago Endurance Sports has over 400 this year so I will be coaching) I am training for a few great races this fall.

One of my favorite training runs is what I call a Negative Split Run or Running Negative. Although it sounds negative, it teaches you how to pace from the start and pick up the pace in the last half of the race.

If you try it, plug it in as a "hard run" on your schedule. Head on a out and back course and take the first half at an easy pace. At the turn around, run back at a comfortably hard pace or at a pace that is just outside your comfort zone. If you are in to heart rate monitors it would be 70-75% out and 80-85% back. Your second half time split should be 1-3 minutes faster than the first half of the run. That depends greatly on the total time and your running speed.

It sounds easy but is a very challenging run. It takes discipline to run easy in the first half of a training run and a race. This is one of the most important skills to learn for race day. Pacing yourself from the start will conserve yourself for the final miles. You will end up passing more people, feel better in the final miles and most importantly, look GOOD for the finish line photo. And that is what it is really about, isn't it:)

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

When you come across a turtle in the road...

2006-07-26T16:42:00.000-05:00

help him out. I was finishing up a great run in northern Illinois this past weekend when I came across a turtle sitting in his shell next to the curb. There was no way he was getting over that curb by himself so I picked him up and moved him safely across the road to a nearby pond. I am not privy to turtle etiquette, but I walked away smiling and thinking it was a good thing to do.

It made me think of how he must have gotten there. He had to cross the road at some point and when he did, he was met with a huge obstacle and something he couldn't tackle on his own. Well, he could have crossed back over the road again... technically speaking. Still, he got himself into a tricky spot.

I began to think of all the times I have gotten myself into a tough spot in training or in a race. Particularly, in an adventure race I did solo and got lost in the middle of the night. At first, I sat, like the turtle with my head between my knees and cried (I AM a girl...). Then, I saw some headlamps in the distance and decided to head down the mountain and see if they were lost as well. Turns out that all I had to do was walk about 500 feet down the mountain to find the trail. The answer was right in front of me but I couldn't see it without help.

These days, when I find myself in a tricky spot, I embrace a little help from my friends.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Girls on the Move - Baltimore

2006-07-17T07:10:00.000-05:00

What a weekend! I was visiting family in the DC area and had the chance to run with a great group of ladies who are part of Health Magazine's Girls on the Move Running Club. GOTM is a national running club that motivates new and seasoned runners to train together. Sue Hays, a GOTM leader has developed a great running club in the Baltimore area. Most of the club started as new runners and could never imagine running one mile, let alone a race. Last month, all of them ran their first 5K and have the stories to prove it. They will be featured in the November issue of Health Magazine.

We met at a women's fitness facility run by Lorraine Bibb called "Contours Express" and talked running, fitness and chafing (all the good stuff) and then headed off to a beautiful park for a 3 mile run. You know you are a real runner when the skies open up and the rain pours down and you think it feels good. GOTM - Baltimore, you're a great group of runners.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Great Alaskan Maritime Marathon

2006-06-28T15:48:00.000-05:00

What a month it has been! We just returned from the Inaugural Great Alaskan Maritime Marathon. John and I hosted over 100 runners and their family on a week full of clinics, running races, great food and beautiful scenery. The idea was to challenge runners to complete the marathon distance 26.2 miles over the course of a few days. Sounds easy right? Wrong! They ran 2 miles on deck, a half marathon in Juneau, 5 miler in Sitka and 10K trails in Ketchikan. By the end of the week our legs were tired but we all were sporting shiny new marathon medals for the first and only staged marathon on a Cruise ship! The highlight was getting to know runners from all over the nation AND seeing a whale in the first mile of the half marathon. What a trip...

It was so successful we are planning another GAMM trip for 2007. Stay tuned for more details.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Post Race Recovery

2006-05-10T16:21:00.000-05:00

I find post race recovery a bit challenging. In most cases, you are coming off a high from the race and want to keep going. Your body reminds you the day after just how hard you ran on race day. I encourage runners to take the week after a half or full marathon off running all together and do light cross-training. It helps speed the healing process by giving your muscles, tendons and joints a break from the impact of running and allows your mind to defrag after the long structured training season.

So, here I am at day four of my post race recovery and already I want to go for a run. I take that as a good sign that the recovery is going well physically and mentally. Until then I am cycling, strength training and focusing on flexibility.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Taking it to the streets...

2006-05-06T10:02:00.000-05:00

What a week. I started my week in New York City with Health Magazine's Girls on the Move Running Club. It is an incredible Club that celebrates the power of women moving. The Online Club GirlsOnTheMove.org is motivating women throughout the nation to walk, run-walk and run together and have fun while getting fit. In the first month, they have over 4,000 members!

I also had the chance to run one of my favorite courses in the world...Central Park. I ran the loop around the Park which is a bout 6 miles and enjoyed every minute. There are tons of people riding, blading, running, walking, juggling... Not to mention the challenging rolling hills. Have I mentioned that I love running hills? It was a treat to say the least.

Today, I had the honor of running the 30th One America 500 Festival Indy Mini Marathon and had an absolutely magical day. The weather was perfect sunny and 45 degrees at the start 55 at the finish. You can't ask for much better than that. 35,000 participants towed the line in the town center of Indianapolis and ran 6 miles to the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway and back! More than 2 miles running on a track where cars race over 200 miles per hour. It really put things into perspective as it took me a little over 16 minutes to run what race cars cover in seconds. The course wiggles through the Indy community with over 120 entertainment stations. It is a wonderful start to a month long celebration for the city of Indianapolis and a race that is highly recommended in my book. Register early for this one. It sells out in November!

From the Big Apple to the Indy Speedway, running is a gift that has taken me to some really fun places...

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Running Music City

2006-04-30T07:18:00.000-05:00

I am not a big fan of country music, but when in Rome...

We took a team of runners from Chicago Endurance Sports (half and full marathon training program) to Nashville for the Country Music Marathon yesterday. 23,000 runners and walkers and a country music band at every mile. It was a fantastic event!

The Music City race was a beautifully rolling course through the Nashville community and a fun journey with rockin' tunes even I enjoyed. The team was really challenged by the never ending hills, but they had trained all winter on the one hill we have in Chicago and treadmills too. Not exactly the same, but it helped them conquer hill after hill.

We met at a hip honky tonk "Tootsie's Orchid Lounge" later that night and all of them were surprised and excited about what they had accomplished. And to my surprise, we were even caught dancing to the country music.

Every now and then it pays to push your self outside your comfort zone physically and culturally. You realize just how much you can achieve and learn to enjoy different styles of life too...

Happy Trails Ya'All,

Coach Jenny

Earth Day Run...

2006-04-23T19:56:00.000-05:00

I think I am one day off the official celebration of Earth Day, but nonetheless, I had a beautiful day to run my annual Earth Day Run. 10 miles, sunny and cool and it couldn't have been a better day. It is a run I started after I raced in Eco-Challenge out of respect for the terrain we live on day to day.

Eco-Challenge was a grueling race and also an opportunity to help the terrain and the community where we raced. In Borneo we planted new trees in a park. In New Zealand, we donated books to the school children and in Fiji, I adopted a family. We were cold, wet and tired and they invited us into their hut for hot tea. We took off our shoes and walked in the back door, out of respect for the chief of the village. We talked (they speak english), we celebrated life and shared stories of our cultures. It was truly one of the most magical experiences of my life. The fijian woman was my age and had a lovely family of children. We hit it off as soon as we met. No shoes, not much food and hardly any clothing, yet they were happy in their village and shared what little they had. A life lesson for me.

So as I run on Earth Day, I pick up what ever trash comes in my path and toss it in the garbage. That is quite a lot on the lakefront path in Chicago. I know, it is not exactly a huge contribution, but at this point in my life it is a way to remember the Fijian family and a small way of respecting this wonderful planet we call Earth.

Happy Trails,

Coach Jenny

Running on the wrong side of the lake...

2006-04-21T21:16:00.000-05:00

I'm fortunate enough to be up in Toronto speaking to a great group of coaches for the Jeans Marines Training Program. Toronto is a great city, and there is nothing like running through the streets to get the feel of the town. It reminds me an awful lot of Chicago, only the lake is on the wrong side of the city! They have a nice running path along the lake, but boy am I turned around. I just might have to break out my adventure racing compass again.

Happy Trails...

Coach Jenny

Happy Birthday to Me...

2006-04-18T18:34:00.000-05:00

Yes, today is my 39th birthday. One more year until I hit 40. I thought I would be upset about leaving my thirties, but I can't stop thinking of how great it will be to have another 5 minutes to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Life is good.

I ran my traditional birthday run on the lakefront path today. I am about one minute per mile slower than I was 10 years ago, but I still smile when I run. Running is the ultimate gift. That is what I try to remember when I get down on my times. I am still out there enjoying it!

Happy Trails...

Coach Jenny

Warm Weather Running Tips

2006-04-11T12:01:00.000-05:00

I had the chance to get out and run today. What a gift! The weather is Chicago has been pretty darn icky lately, but not this morning. I ran past the Lakefront beaches and they were taking down the winter snow fencing and that can only mean one thing... the warm weather runs are coming. The best way to acclimate to running in the warm weather is to give yourself time to acclimate.

It can take 10 days of running in warm weather for your body to acclimate. Take is easy and slow down. Wear technical fabrics that keep you cool. Wear sunscreen and shades to protect yourself from the sun and run when it is cooler in the day.

If your heart rate and effort level seem elevated, have no fear - you're RIGHT! Your body is trying its darndest to cool you off and it is a bit rusty since you've been running in the cooler temps. Work with it and slow down. Eventually, you will be able to run at your normal efforts in the warmer weather.

Windy Runs

2006-03-25T14:01:00.000-06:00

Boy, it was a windy one today. I find it is always a good idea to head out into the wind for the first half of the run and get warm (this time of year) and head back with the wind on your way home. That way, you won't get cold heading back into a wind sweaty. It is a wodnerful mental challenge as well. Not every day can be done in a perfect running climate, so days like today are a gift. They build character and strength and give us something to talk about later in the day:)

Happy Trails...

Spring Training

2006-03-24T10:21:00.000-06:00

This is the time of year we start thinking of Summer, of goals to run, or bike or swim. The possibilities are endless. I am asked frequently how to start a training program. The key to succes is to start with where you are, rather than where you want to be.

If you want to train for a half marathon, find a program that starts with the same frequency of running you are currently doing. If you jump into a program that is too aggressive it will catch up with you and the risk for injury sky-rockets.

For those of you who are looking for structured training programs, I have developed a menu of programs from 5K - marathon on the http://www.ActiveTrainer.com site. There are tips from John "the Penguin" Bingham and training programs for every level!

When Life Intervenes...

2006-03-22T22:44:00.000-06:00

It has been awhile since my last post. I had goals to train, to run a Spring Ultra Marathon. The goals have been set aside and the miles shortened. Now, I run to stay strong and postive. I run to get through the emotional tornado that has ripped through my life. I run, because my dad can't.

My father has hit a rough spot in his life and in he is six weeks into radation for an in-operable brain tumor. What happens when life intervenes and turns it upside down? We run...

This blog is dedicated to my dad. His strength and will to live inspires me to live life to the fullest.