Don't Skirt the Issues.

This summer, I am really struggling with my runs.

The weather has been horrid:  Hot.  Humid.  Torrential downpours.  All around yucky.

This week, I've come up with a new running mantra to try and help me through the rest of this summer sluggishness:  Embrace My New Pace.

I am running a lot slower - even walking at times - to get through my runs.  Even though I start my runs around 4:30-5am, in an effort to avoid the true heat of the day, it doesn't seem to matter.  I feel like I am trying to breathe through a mouthful of cotton.  I just need to accept that my runs will be slower and more labored, and it's okay. 

In an effort to try and stay cooler, other than running ridiculously early in the morning, I invested in an EnduraCool bandana (which can be found at your local Lowe's Home Improvement - not so shameless plug).  I bought the bandana with the realistic expectation that I would feel significantly cooler while running - and by cooler, I do mean temperature-wise, not awesomeness, although that would be an added bonus.

Not so much.  The instructions say to wet the bandana, then wring out the water, and "snap" the fabric to activate.  I followed the directions, tied on my banana (scarf style on my head), and off I went for a 6 mile run.  I honestly did not notice any temperature improvement.  Halfway through the run, I moved the bandana to around my neck, wondering if I might feel more of a difference with more skin contact.  No luck.

Just in case I am completely inept at following simple, three step instructions, I plan to try the bandana again, just to see if perhaps I didn't do it right the first time.  I'll let you know.  It would be nice if it really worked.

In a second fabulous purchase, I finally found a running skort that stays in place!  Don't get me wrong.  I love the ruffle skirt mentioned in previous posts.  I do think the ruffles add an extra zing to my step, but it's negated by my constant need to readjust the compression shorts underneath.  Very awkward.

At a group run recently another mother recommended the Brooks PR Mesh Skort.  I found them on sale this week, and bought two.  I did buy a size down in the hopes that might help the compression shorts stay in place.  I wore one skirt for a run yesterday morning, and did not adjust once!  Perfection.

Finally, as a side note update.  I rode with the Cycling Group again last night.  Not only did I improve my pace significantly, I am happy to report, I did not fall over with my bike at the end.

It's good to celebrate all successes, even the little ones.