Running

So I have been trying to run at least 5 miles during the week when I get my runs in. I run at least 3 times during the week (usually Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), and on the days I don't run I do strength training. On Saturday I try to do a longer run - at least 6 miles and gradually working my way up to more. Now that I have been running longer distances I am finding the need to hydrate better and find some way to fuel my runs. This is a challenge in general for me because of my decreased ability to take in food - especially in the morning when I like to run.
So I did some research and did some shopping and this is what I came up with.

I bought an Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Hydration System. I was thinking about getting a hydration belt of some sort, but not quite ready to make a jump like that. I like this because I don't really have to hold it - just strap it to my hand and it stays in place. It is shaped for your hand.

Something I did discover is you don't want to put something too cold in there - it will freeze your hand! :) It holds 20 ounces which is good - I can just sip here and there and it's just enough for me.

It also has a little pocket and I can put my license in there, or something else I am experimenting with - sports beans.

I tried using these in my run for the first time yesterday and it went really well. I was worried about dumping on them, but since I take them when I am running - they metabolize and absorb really well. I take a few before I run and then every 30 minutes. I didn't have the totally exhausted feeling I had last week - like I just couldn't run any farther even if my life depended on it. I bought an assortment of these at REI this weekend, including some CLIF BLOK SHOTS and some PowerBar Gel Blasts. So I have a few things to try and see how they work for me.

I continue to love running and it boggles my mind. But I look forward to my runs - especially my long ones on Saturdays.