A Mayhem of 'fessing

The month of May may be winding down, but there's still some mayhem at play.

No, that's not a riddle, but merely my reality.

Even with a relatively race-free summer calendar, there is still plenty to keep me busy. And, quite honestly, that's how I thrive. But, first things first...shall we clear the air a bit and runfess a few things?

Summer Running Hacks? I Got a Few..

Running? Yeah, we all have our own way of doing it.

Some of us even have a few tricks up our (compression) sleeves. 

After all, why not? As much as we all love our dear sport of running, it would be pretty boring if there weren't a few shortcuts along the way. 

Switcheroo, Anyone?

A switcheroo? Yeah it happens. This week was a prime example.

By definition, a switcheroo is a sudden unexpected variation or reversal, often for humorous purpose (source). Well, I did my best to find the humor in how this week played out. Although the laughing was at the minimum, it still was there. After all, if we can't laugh at ourselves, our attitudes may need some adjusting.

Not many things played out as planned this week. UGH, there was plenty of switcheroo'ing (if that wasn't a legit word, it is now) going on, and I am most thankful to have made it through (somewhat) vertical and still smiling.

Fitness Options for Honoring Memorial Day

Memorial Day is all about honoring our fallen heroes. 

Usually, most little towns, big cities, and mid-size communities have some kind of tribute to memorialize those who served in the armed forces (but are no longer with us). Typically, there are graveside ceremonies, town hall concerts, and parades. 

Things are a little different this year, with social distancing and COVID-19 restrictions. All the more reason to be mindful on how you honor the day.

In addition, there are those of us who are fitness fanatics...and we have our own options for commemorating the day. After all, isn't that what we do best?

Best Race? Worst race? Is there such a thing?

I've done a lot of races in my time.

In fact, I don't even know the exact count. I have kept almost all of my race bibs (minus a few strays from the early years before I considered myself a "real" runner, that is), but please don't ask me to count them.

I have had some great races, and I have definitely had some nasty ones.  

If I were to name my best race experience, though, it would be tough. There are too many factors (the weather, the terrain, the crowds, the training that got me there, etc.) to name the absolute best one that I've experienced. The 2013 Quad Cities Marathon, though, would definitely be a contender.

Spring? Is that you?

I'm just gonna go ahead and say this out loud....I believe Spring is officially here to stay!

What's more, this next week is forecast to have summer-like temps. Thank you, Momma N!

A lot of our blossoming trees have shed their colorful petals. Many of the summer perennials are filling in. And, just a couple days ago, I could smell the sweet scent of lilacs in the air.

Yes, as the weather took a solid turn for the warmer, I was able to #optoutside everyday. There was all kinds of daily walking, legit cross-training, and the running felt pretty sweet as well.   

Little Bit of Everything HIIT Workout

I'll say it again....HIIT me up!

Not everyone's a fan of HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training). Some have never tried it, some may be scared of it, and some simply have other preferences for cardio. And that's okay.

Myself? It's totally changed my game as a runner and as an athlete.