How has your February running been going?
Since it’s the last Friday of the month, it’s time to share running confessions, aka Runfessions! This linkup is hosted by Marcia’s Healthy Slice. It’s nice to open up and let out some of our worries and funny stories about running!
I’m also sharing these Runfessions as part of the Friday 5 with Cynthia, Mar, and Courtney!
[bctt tweet=”What Runfessions do you have to share? Link up with @teamarcia! #runfessions”]
Runfessions for February
While February is the shortest month it seemed to have so much going on! I had my first race of the year, the excitement of being a race ambassador, and lots of running and cross-training. Overall, life is GOOD. But I still have a few issues I’m struggling with right now…
My FitBit Charge Is Driving Me Nuts
For the past few weeks, my FitBit Charge has been a complete mess. I went from a 7-day battery life to a 2-day battery life. The band is starting to fall apart.
I’ve had to remove the silent alarms and automatic syncing so that it won’t die in the middle of my runs like it has already done the past two weekends. And guess what? It still randomly dies without warning, like on my last run. It’s so frustrating!
I got the FitBit because it was so popular, but I’m starting to wonder if they have any quality control with these devices or are they just sending out junk because they know we’ll buy it? If you have a FitBit, have you been having problems with it?
I Have a Half Marathon In 2 Weeks?!
The Rock ‘n Roll DC Half Marathon is on Saturday, March 12…and I am still in disbelief. I just received my race confirmation email yesterday!
DC was not on my original plan for spring races, but since I was given the privilege to be a Rock ‘N Blogger this year, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to go down to DC, run a new race, and spend time with family.
I’ve always wanted to run this race so I’m looking forward to it. It’s just weird because this is the first half marathon I’m running that isn’t my goal race. So I don’t really know what expectations to set for myself.
My last half marathon in November was finished in 2:15, my second-best ever. I don’t know if I can duplicate that in a couple of weeks or if I should even try…I should really use this opportunity to practice racing smart. Lately, I’ve been going out too fast, so I need to remember to be conservative at the start.
I guess I’ll have to treat this race as a training run! I just can’t believe it’s so close to being here!
I’ve Been Exhausted This Training Cycle
I’ve mentioned this before but with all of the working out that I’ve been doing this month: Running, yoga, boot camp, core and more (sometimes), weight training…every night I come home exhausted.
I continue to start falling asleep around 8:30-9:00 pm on weeknights and it throws my whole sleep cycle out of whack. Is it because I need to do a better job of fueling after my workouts? I really don’t know how to fix this problem.
I’m happy that I’m getting a good amount of rest but it’s starting to get ridiculous. Do you have any tips on how to battle workout fatigue?
My Twizzler Addiction Has Been Replaced By Frooties
Remember when I would tell you about my terrible addiction to Twizzlers, possibly one of the worst candies out there? I’ve removed them from my life only to have them replaced with Frooties. Have you ever had them? They’re “fruit”-flavored Tootsie rolls and we tend to buy them on Amazon at 4 or 5 pounds at a time. They do not last long…
It’s a shame that after all the progress I made in the 21 Day Reset that sugar has come back to be a big problem. It is nearly impossible to stop eating them once you get started, especially if you take one handful at a time…smh!
Once these devilish sweets are all eaten, no more keeping candy in the house. Out of sight, out of mind.
I’m Still Too Hard On Myself When I Miss a Run
It’s funny how the more things change, the more they stay the same. I think it’s been a really interesting training cycle and I’ve continued to grow as a runner, but why do I still get so upset when I miss a run?
I wrote a post about time management tips for race training a while back, and one of my takeaways is that it’s important to be flexible. I was really looking forward to knocking out my speed work on Tuesday, so I’m annoyed that I have to move everything around, giving myself a heavier load later in the week.
Really, there’s no point to whining about these things.
I have to remember to keep things in perspective. If I don’t get to do all the runs that I plan, it’s okay!! I’ve been working really hard and I have to be grateful that I’m able to run with no major pain or injury. Either way, it’ll all work out.
What Runfessions do you have to share?
I was hooked on Twizzlers too but now I am currently obsessed with gummy candy! Also, sour patch kids and stuff like that.
Argh, so many delicious and addictive candy options to choose from!! I haven’t had sour patch kids in a long time.
Me neither but my husband and I call them pool food. Growing up we would go to the community pool in the summer and sour patch kids was totally something we’d get at the snack stand!
Sorry to hear about the Fitbit! Have you tried contacting customer service? Maybe they will replace it for you since you’ve only had it for four months.
Thankfully, they do have a reputation for good customer service, so they’ll be hearing from me!
Oh no! My Dad has a clip on one and loves it. I’ve heard if the screen breaks they will replace it… maybe call customer service?
I’m definitely going to put in a ticket, hopefully I get a quick resolution!
eek! I haven’t had any problems with my FitBit charge HR which I got at Christmas time. I would contact customer service though or tweet at them! You might be able to get a replacement. I know the feeling about being tired after a work out. My training schedule has been loaded more so than usual but I definitely am feeling stronger. I think social media aids in the guilt over missing a run. Don’t beat yourself up!!
I’m definitely hoping I can get a replacement, of course today, it’s working much better go figure! It’s great feeling stronger, I just hate that I am ready to crash whenever I’m done, lol!
Definitely contact FitBit customer service – I haven’t had to use them yet, but I know other who have and siad they’re really helpful. Sounds like you got a dud so hopefully they’ll just replace it. Good luck!
Thanks, Michelle! Will do.
Frooties are soooo good! I only have them at Halloween though, when I pick them out of my kids trick or treat buckets. Shhhh…don’t tell 😛
Haha, I would totally do the same thing!
A friend of mine got a Charge for Christmas and it just fell apart last week! I’d say they definitely have quality issues with that one. Bummer! I could eat bags of Twizzlers if I get going on them. My kids love those Frooties! Thanks for linking up!
Oh man the Twizzlers…it’s best if I don’t think about them otherwise my cravings will come back! I wish the FitBits were made with higher quality, oh well!
I can’t believe spring races are already coming up. On one hand, so much has happened this month (mostly not good things), but I’m also amazed how March 1 is Tuesday.
Time is flying by, that’s for sure!
My band mangled up and they sent me 2 new ones.
Oh 2? Good to know!
Sorry about your Fitbit! The good thing is they have amazing customer service. Tell them and they will send you a brand new one. Or if you have protection plan you should get a brand new one at no charge to you. By the way, I love Frooties!!!
Yeah all was going well and then it started to die on me, so frustrating! I’ll definitely see if they can give me a replacement. And yes, Team Frooties!
OMG! I thought I was the only human that liked Frooties. Vanilla is my favorite. I know – not a fruit flavor! And I MUST do Rock n Roll DC one day. Can’t wait to hear what you think!
Smitha, vanilla is great! Frooties have so many amazing flavors. I wish I was heading your way for a race…I’d love some California sunshine!
Never heard of frooties! I love twizlers and all sorts of candy really. My faves are sour patch kids. I’m currently loving the peanutbutter eggs the church is selling at our local mini mart! They get me every time!
All of that candy sounds amazing! That’s the best I can do now, just fantasize…lol.
I have never had a Frooties, probably better that I don’t. They look like they could become quite addictive! Indeed, it is hard to believe that RnR DC is coming up so quickly. Good luck! I have also been struggling with fatigue and sleep lately. I think it is just this time of year.
Oh my gosh Frooties are amazingly terrible! Stay away, lol! Thanks, Kelli. I hope we all figure out our fatigue issues soon!
I forgot you were doing RnR as well. Hopefully it warm up a bit before then! I’ve been eating lots of hershey kisses that is my weakness. I’ve been a little worn out lately as well trying to do too many things at the same time.
When we have a lot going on it can be really tiring…I’m trying not to burn the candle on both ends, but balancing everything is so tough!
I didn’t realize you had a half coming up so soon! Funny how time flies during training…even when you’re exhausted and feel like training is taking FOREVER. This week was tiring for me, too. Must just be the end-of-February doldrums.
Yes, this one was a surprise race that was added to the schedule…so it’ll be interesting. Hopefully I’ll have a nice race like you did with your marathon! 😀 Yeah, maybe it’s just the dragging of this time of year that’s making things so tiring!
Garmin Vivofit2….get it…now!! I’ve heard a lot of mixed reviews on the Fitbit, but it doesn’t seem like it should be doing that after only 4 months! I haven’t gotten my confirmation email yet for RnR DC! I can’t believe it’s only 2 weeks away! Yikes! So unprepared, lol. Looking forward to meeting you in person! Are you doing VIP for that race?
I’ve seen some Garmin Vivofit2 reviews and I am kind of envious, lol…I got FitBit because it seems like everyone has it and I wanted to accountability! But yes, I definitely plan to contact support. And yes, DC! Can’t wait to meet you! I decided not to do VIP…I’m thinking about going to Seattle and using it there!
I’ve used shorter distance races as training races, but never a half marathon. As long as you go in with the mindset of not trying to race for time that day then you should be able to enjoy the day and have a great race!
You’re absolutely right, thanks, Kathryn!
I’m super hard on myself when I miss a run. I’ve missed 2 of my 3 runs this week. If someone else told me how terrible they felt about it, I know exactly what I would say to get them to see why it isn’t such a big deal. I just can’t do the same for myself. Boo.
Frooties, Twizzlers, skittles, starburst, etc are my least favorite candy. I’m strictly a chocolate gal!
I’m glad that I don’t also have a chocolate addiction, though I was just talking to a friend about Reese’s…I used to be hooked on those! It’s so funny, sometimes we need to take our own advice!
sugar is the DEVIL!!!! giving it up for Lent and I am counting down the days until I can have the bag of Swedish fish and sour gummi bears in the pantry!! SHAMEFUL!!!!
eah DC RnR…I decided not to run it but may come down to cheer…weather depending….
girl…my training has been kicking my tail…just the weight training..I have been SO tired during the day…like falling asleep at my desk tired…where they do that at?lol!!!
On another note…for some reason, I never get notification about your posts…I am going ot try to subscribe again…we will see.
You will get through this Tamieka! I wouldn’t even be able to have candy in the house if I was giving it up cold turkey! It’s crazy how exhausting weight training can be, geez! Hmm…do you follow me on bloglovin? I wonder if there’s some glitch. Let me know if you continue to have issues.
I haven’t had any issues with my fitbit, but I don’t have the charge. I have been going to bed earlier and feel so much betteR. I also cut down on my workouts, marathon training took priority and I didn’t want to over do. Have fun at the RnR race !
Thanks a lot, Karen! It’s good that cutting back on your workouts is benefiting your training!
OMG, I just realized I have a half in 2 weeks as well! And I”ve heard nothing from them. Crickets.
But it is Florida…
I hope you have a great time! I am definitely jealous of Florida weather right now…
Good luck on your half…I’m running NYC Half the week after and i’m SO under prepared but WILL finish! Sorry to hear about you fitbit…I’m so hooked on mine…I would hate if my battery was flaking like that.
The NYC Half sounds like it’s going to be awesome, I’m sure you’ll do great! Yes, definitely be glad your FitBit is working well! I just have to keep an extra eye that it stays charged.
I added RnR unexpectedly to my schedule a couple of weeks ago. It will be the first half for two of my friends and I realized I should run it with them. I won’t be racing it, and I’m trying to remember to take it easy since it is longer than I should be doing with my cherry blossom training schedule.
I’ve used fitbits for over four years – the ultra, the one, and the charge hr. I’ve had to use customer service a few times (unfortunately), but they have always been fantastic. I’m glad you are going to reach out to them – they will make it right, I’m sure!
It is always tough for me to take it easy in a race, but I’m going to try my hardest! I hope you have a great time with RnR too, and I’ll definitely see you at Cherry Blossom! 🙂
Knowing my luck, customer service will give me a hard time…but fingers crossed that I can get a replacement soon! It hasn’t taken long for me to grow dependent on this thing!
Booo to the fitbit issues! How old is it?
As for bad-for-you snacks – I’m the same way. If it’s in the house, I’ll eat it. I can’t keep cereal around for that exact reason. You’ll get back on track. I wonder if the added sugar is what is effecting your sleep?
The FitBit is only a few months old so it seems way too soon for all the problems! Oh well.
Hmm…maybe the sugar is playing a role in my sleep issues? I finally cleaned things up in the house (aka ate all the sweets) so once again, I’m “resetting”.
Never heard of frooties, and maybe that’s a good thing, then again, doesn’t really sound like my sort of thing.
Sounds like DC should just be for fun. Take some photos, have a great time!
I can be very hard on myself for missing a run, but since I only run 3 x week right now, I really haven’t missed any.
I do go to bed at 8:30, then read, then it’s lights out by 9. Usually I’m up around 4-5, tho. And that’s just my natural rhythm!
Well I know you are more of a chocolate gal 🙂 Frooties are seriously junk, but I love them anyway!
I’ve never done the selfies thing during a race…maybe this will be my first attempt!
I get up at 5 am during the week, sometimes around 6 am or so on the weekends. I’m just not used to feeling so exhausted at the end of the day. Hopefully it ends soon.
I think I am one of the few remaining people (runners?) who does not own (or even want) a Fitbit. I also don’t have a fancy Garmin either (I have a Timex Ironman GPS watch, though, but I don’t use it very often…and I actually won it from a contest LOL). That said, I like having access to the info but I much prefer to have the info after I’ve finished, and not have it on my wrist dictating my effort. And, I realize I’m in the minority with that mindset. Oh well 😉 And you are right…don’t stress over the missed runs! You are in great shape, a missed run now and then will not affect your overall fitness 😉
I do think the reliance on gadgets can sometimes do more harm than good…so I have to remember that! I think knowing your body by feel has to be easier without using a GPS watch. I do like having access to the data! Thanks, Kim!
My fiancé and I are considering the The DC R&R Half… but We haven’t registered yet. We live about 2 hours from DC, and are still debating on driving in or staying the night… but we really really want to do the half!! we are being slackers!
I hope you contacted Fitbit! my sister and I both have fitbits and they replaced mine once… and hopefully will replace this one, because it’s falling apart again. My sister waited until hers was nothing but the tracker, but she did get a replacement.
One missed run is not bad, especially if you are overly tired! rest is one dirty R word, but your body might need it!
Maybe it’s time to try a Garmin? 😉 I think how you fuel before and after a workout can make a difference, but you may just need more sleep when you are working out more – it’s when your muscles really rebuild.
I’m happy to get the rest, I just wish my body wouldn’t conk out at 8:00 pm! My sleep patterns have been all over the place as a result :(.