Blondes Run Faster

If someone told me to run a half marathon a year ago, I would have laughed and said that I only run for taxis. Turns out I underestimated myself, as in January I caught the running bug and ran my first half marathon in Brighton ten days ago. The Brighton half marathon is a lovely course for a first ½ marathon, as there aren’t too many hills, the crowd is ridiculously friendly, and even the sun came out in mid-February!

A nice 13.1 mile run looking out at the Brighton beach

My marathon highlights included seeing a blue-haired granny wearing a flowered moo moo cheering runners on from the sideline, fellow running friend Marcus running in a skin-tight bright pink male leotard, and of course bumping into Katie Price’s very indiscreet whip at the finish line..  

Obviously good old Jord wore a matching pink outfit to go with her Rover

Several of my girlfriends have asked how on earth you go from running to catch a cab, to running a ½ marathon in a short amount of time. I am far from a running expert, but here are some tips and tricks I learned along the way, while training for my big Brighton run.

Running Attire

Just like every new hobby, you usually end up needing new kit to go along with it. After signing up for the ½ marathon I smugly jogged on over to Sweaty Betty, which I think of as the UK equivalent to Lululemon, and treated myself to some practical yet attractive looking dex (slang for spandex in Cali). Once I was kitted out in bright colored dex, it only seemed appropriate to get some fun Nike trainers to go along with the ensemble. I opted for the Nike Women’s Dual fusion ST2 – pictured above. I definitely recommend buying a pair of good running socks as they really make a difference. Also remember to keep your toenails trimmed when frequently running, otherwise you will end a run only to realize that you are missing part of your pedicure. Gross I know, but something you certainly don't want to experience!

Motivation 101

I’m sure it won’t surprise you when I say that you need to get motivated to put down the pack of crisps (aka potato chips), get off the sofa, and start pounding the pavement! Fret not if you aren’t an early bird, now that Spring is around the corner and it isn’t pitch black outside at 4:30pm, it is easier than ever to log some miles after work. Once you are in your running gear, try to remind yourself what it is that is going to motivate you to finish your run without stopping today. Maybe it’s the skinny jeans you want to fit back into or knowing how amazing you are going to feel at the end of your run. Ever since I was in the front row at a No Doubt concert I like to envision Gwen Stefani’s rock-hard rock star abs when I need some motivation. I’ve created a Pinterest board just to help give me that extra boost of motivation before runs – feel free to take a look and follow it here – and yes, I know this board makes me look like a massive lezza (UK slang for lesbian, which I just love saying), but if it motivates me then it might motivate you too! 

Running Apps Are Your Friend

Being a bit of a technology nerd, I am obsessed with the iPhone app Nike+ GPS, which tracks all your runs and has athletes like Lance Armstrong cheering you on. I love running around London, but I have definitely got lost on more than one occasion and used the GPS on this app to help steer me back on course. If you use Nike+ GPS, then don’t forget to create a powersong playlist to help give you that extra smack of encouragement. Mapometer.com is also a great website to plan out your running routes. 

The Perfect Playlist 

There is nothing I like more than running to all my favorite tunes and if you’re like me, then running or working out without music is just agony. Creating the perfect playlist to keep you jazzed up during your run is essential in my book. I am a big fan of listening to No Doubt, Lady Gaga, Fanny Pack, Rihanna, Britney, Katy B, Robyn, Madonna and basically any type of pop music to get me pumped up. When it’s time for your cool down, try Lana del Rey’s new album, Mariah Carey, Third Eye Blind, Bob Marley, Red Hot Chilli Peppers or David Gray. I’m always open to music suggestions, and love to listen to new music, so if you have any favorite tunes to run to let me know!

Accept Sweets From Strangers - Really!

I didn’t really know what to expect on the day of my ½ marathon, but I was happy as a clam carbo-loading in the run-up to the big day. One bit of advice I was told, and definitely found true, is to try to find 'a good bottom' that is running at your pace and follow that bottom! I found my silver haired fox/Anderson Cooper look-a-like ‘bottom’ to follow until he suddenly started to seriously pick up the pace at mile 8. I was also advised to accept any Jelly Baby candies, Lucozade drinks or gel I was handed while running, as the sugars give you a much-needed boost and the drinks help hydrate you. So, forget what your mama told ya and accept candies from strangers. 

One of the best things about running a half marathon is knowing you can eat whatever you want after without feeling remotely guilty. If you are ever in Brighton, I highly recommend Bill’s, where there is always a line out the door for a reason! After the best shower of my life post ½ marathon, I hightailed it over to Bill’s to have a seriously delicious and well-deserved meal.

Bill's in Brighton - one of my favorite spots

Ten days after my ½ marathon I am trying to keep the running buzz alive, and have even signed up for another race in April. Call me crazy, but I think I would even try to run the London Marathon if the 2012 ballot wasn’t already closed. It’s also about as challenging getting a spot in the London Marathon as it is to get an invite to Will & Kate’s pad for a Sunday Roast. Never say never though!