Princess Runner

Today was the first group run. Because we were having a “getting started” clinic after the run, it was held at a local running store. I was surprised that they didn’t really make any mention of pacing and just had everyone run/walk for 15 minutes and then turn around and come back. There were some very fast people and some people slower than me. I guess I was somewhere in the middle. I wonder if those really fast people will slow down or if they will always go that fast. I had forgotten my Garmin at home, so I had to ask another woman how long we had been running so I knew when to turn around. It had only been seven minutes when I asked. I stayed behind her for a little bit because she was going a nice pace. We finished the first mile in 13:40, according to her Garmin. Later, a woman that I had met last week met up with me. Right about then it was time to turn around and we ran back together. We had a similar pace so it worked out well. She had worn too much clothing, though, and was warm, so she might naturally be faster.

After the run, we learned what stretches we should do and then headed inside for the clinic. I could have used a snack at that point, but none was offered. My tummy growled a little while the running store owner was talking about shoes. It pretty much reaffirmed what I knew already (that I am a freak and that only 10% of the population has feet like mine; I would guess far less than that if you add the bunions). He also talked about water bottle holders, clothing, and gels. Like me, the man was a fan of the Clif shot bloks. Yummy. The store gave us all one Powerbar gel (I got chocolate) and one free pair of fancy socks. They are so comfortable that I might end up getting some more.

Then the coach spoke about the training schedule and some other things. I spaced out a bit because I was so hungry and it was so warm in the store. Luckily I had my other half of a granola bar that I ate this morning in the car so I didn’t drive off the road or anything on my way home.