garmin free

Lately my long runs have been a bit of a disaster.  Last week's half marathon didn't go quite as planned either.  I have been feeling a little discouraged, and felt like I needed a change.  After emailing with the incredible Ben Bruce I decided it would be a good idea to try running my long run Garmin free.

Sorry, Garmin, not today.

Since getting my Garmin a few months ago, I have not gone on a run without it.  Before that I would use an app on my phone to track my mileage and time.  It's been a while since I've ran without something telling me how far and how fast I've gone.

I knew yesterday's run was going to be a challenge.  I haven't run longer than 13 miles since 2007 when I ran my first marathon.  I was ready to get out there, give it my best shot, and hopefully erase a few of the bad long runs that had left me feeling defeated.  I planned out a route that looped back by my house around 11 miles so I could get more water if needed.  After my normal pre-long run routine I was out the door before 6am.  Huge PR for me.

I started running completely based on how I felt.  I have no idea how fast I was going.  I wasn't focused on how far I had gone and how many miles were left.  I just ran.  It was amazing.  The miles flew by and I was genuinely enjoying just running.

you never know what animals you'll pass by in NH

beautiful sunrise

It was already close to 80 degrees while I was running, so I was very happy to be able to stop at my house to refill my water bottle.  I filled it up with cherry limeade nuun, changed my sweaty shirt and socks, and was back out the door for the 5-6 miles.  My legs were starting to feel it at that point, but other than that I still felt good.  I was confident I'd be able to get through this run without walking and feeling much more positive.  The last couple of miles were tough, and probably pretty slow, but I finished...without walking, which lately has not been the case.  FINALLY a good long run.  I needed that badly.  I'm pretty sure my Garmin will be left at home for most of my long runs for a while.

In other, non-running related news, after my run I went to North Conway to see my best friend try on wedding dresses.  I'm one of two maid of honors in her wedding.  First time MOH here.  It was fun watching her try on some beautiful dresses.  After trying on many and debating back and forth between two, she finally said yes to the dress.  And of course, we had to do the obligatory jump photo in celebration.