You are darn right it has been unseasonably cold here in MN! Finally, this week was the first consistant week of warmth we have seen for what feels like a year. I was able to spend some good time on the trails over the week with nothing but a pair of shorts and a little water getting ready for Superior 50k. The whole time, I just thought about how nice it is to run without a shirt on again! After blowing up mid-way through Chippewa 50k with multiple problems, I am happy to have 2 wks of solid training, a short recovery, and more trail time under my belt at this point. Hopefully, I can put together a great race that shows I have actually been making huge improvements over the off season!Aside from training, earlier this week I was like a kid in a candy shop when a box full of FitSok apparel arrived! Running is so gear minimal, that nothing makes me more stoked than a box full of fresh socks! Graciously, FitSok added me as a Midwest Ambassador which I am pumped about. Recently, the F4 sock has impressed me with the ability to wick moisture and stay blister free through swamp-like spring runs. Even when my feet have been soaked, this sock feels like it is barely there, adding just enough cushion and comfort to get me through the longer pushes! If you are searching for a new race-day sock of choice, I would recommend giving these a test hands down.
Weekly Load: I had the chance to get out to Hyland Park and run the ski hills twice this week for 1-2 hrs of moderate to intense effort. If you haven't checked out Hyland before it is gorgeous. These runs were punctuated by constant wildlife sightings including a fox, too many deer and some aggressive male turkeys! Additionally, I mixed in some speed doing 6X1 mile repeats with 2 mins at 7 mile pace in between. These were finally outside on trail and felt great! Always nice when Sub 5:40 feels like a glide repeatedly after so much long distance focus.
Get out there this weekend. I recommend checkout out Hyland or if you are on the west side of town, a little hidden gem called Wolsfeld Woods. If going to Wolsfeld, pay attention. The woods are circular like a Vegas Casino and it took me a while to find my way out! However, they are gorgeous, quiet and only mildly rolling!