Today my alarm was set for 4:50 AM. There is something about waking up in the 4’s that sounds kind of terrifying (even 4:50 ;-)) I have realized that I am SLOW as molasses when I first get out of bed and it realistically takes me a good 30-35 minutes to get ready for my run. So, in order to give myself ample warm up time, run time, cool down time, get ready for work time, and eat-a-good-breakfast time, I need to get up earlier that I actually think.
I have started doing some more active stretches and drills to warm up before running (instead of foam rolling and yoga) and have found it to be very helpful! Then, after my run, I do yoga, planks, foam rolling, and hold several stretches.
My run today reminded me how much I love running first thing in the morning.
Besides running before the world wakes up, I have a few favorites lately.
Favorite treat:
Macaroons!
Favorite yoga pose:
Benefits:
- Stretches the insides and backs of the legs
- Stimulates the abdominal organs
- Strengthens the spine
- Calms the brain
- Releases groins
Pretty great right?? I am trying to do this pose every day (even rest days) so that eventually I will be able to lay all the way forward (see yoga journal pic!!).
Favorite find:
Cream cheese that even I (allergy queen) can eat.
Favorite mail:
A big box from QUEST. More on this later… 😉
And last but not least…
Favorite graffiti:
Spotted this *threat* on the muni the other day:
You hear that!? Be happy… or else!!
What are some of your favorite things lately?
When do you like to run?
XO,
CS
City Sneakers 
I think I need to start doing some more active stretches before I run, too. What kinds do you do?
Love to run right before sunset! Don’t know why, but I think I prefer it to the early morning!
Lately I have been doing a lot of leg swings, lifts, and lunges. Then I do a round of toe walking, heel walking (to prevent shin splints), and quick stretches followed by a jog/jump sequence. Make any sense?? haha. I plan to write a blog post about what I have been doing lately, so hopefully that will help more! Oh yes, running before sunset is lovely too.