Half-marathon training – Week 5 – Hydration is key

This weekend I had to cancel a trip to Victoria due to a crazy windstorm and the Seahawks lost the Super Bowl. At least I can take some solace in the fact that I had a good training week.

This week I ran a total of 12 miles (3.5/3.5/5) and cross trained on the stationary bike and in the pool (finally!). I used my new hydration waistpack (similar to this) for the first time this morning. Once the distance hits about 4 miles I really need to hydrate during the run. I was a bit worried that the waistpack would be bouncy but it seems OK and it’s definitely better than carrying a water bottle in my hand. I also tried eating a gel during my run this morning. I’m not sure I’m a huge fan of gels. I can’t believe I’m going to say this but I find them too sweet. However they are a quick way to get calories in and since I can’t really eat solids in the middle of a run they’re not a bad choice. I think it’s important to work out a hydration/feeding pattern during my longer training runs so I’ll be prepared for race day.