Tough Mudder Las Vegas 2014 | Team Tough Cookies 2.0

In 2013, Tough Mudder changed my life! You can read more about it HERE. This year, I was excited to give it another go. I was especially excited to become a Legionnaire. Basically, as past Tough Mudders, Legionnaires go on a different loop and finish line than first time Mudders and we can opt out of Electroshock Therapy at the end. Yup, not getting electrocuted at the end sounded awesome to me!

Tough Mudder was in Lake Las Vegas this year, so we didn’t have to drive 2.5 hrs to the event, it was just a quick 30 min. drive. Another plus! Saturday’s weather was windy and chilly, so I was glad we were signed up on Sunday because the weather couldn’t have been better! However, there were only 4 waves on Sunday and we went on the last wave. This made for a pretty sparse spectator and participant course. Yet there was no lack of camaraderie from our fellow Mudders throughout the course and at the obstacles!

This spirit of camaraderie could not have been more evident to me during my drama on Walk the Plank. I was feeling nervous when I first saw photos of other events where rather than one long platform to jump off of, there were now individual rows with planks that led out into the water for you to jump off. Just typing about it now, my palms are sweaty!! My plan was to just walk up and jump. Yea, that didn’t happen. The rows were close enough were Jason and I could hold hands, but I just couldn’t physically extend my arm away from my body, so I told Jason we’d count to 3 and jump. He jumped. I didn’t. Our other team members jumped and Jason came back up to the platform to help me out. I just couldn’t get myself to jump but the crowds on the ground and behind me in the platform weren’t going to let me off that easy. I mean, that’s what Tough Mudder is about, right? Overcoming your fears. Well, it took about 30 minutes, a U.S. Marine, 3 coaches from Camp Rhino, the volunteers, and basically everyone there chanting and encouraging me to overcome my fear. And even then I had to ask the volunteer to push me. I’m glad he did. I would have been very disappointed in myself if I’d turned around & climbed back down. Plus, I knew I didn’t want to let all those people down. They were there for me. They didn’t have to be there. But they were. They cheered me on, encouraged me to face my fear and jump, but never once made me feel bad for being scared. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Again, Tough Mudder changed my life. Again Tough Mudder showed me that I can do anything I set my mind to, even if I require a little push. I was not the strongest person there, I wasn’t the fastest, but I was there, I gave it my all, and I had a blast doing it! And, I got my green 2X Tough Mudder headband 🙂

Big shout out to my sister for taking all these awesome photos and her hubby for coming along and cheering us on throughout the course! Love you guys 🙂

Have you ran a Tough Mudder event? I’d love to know what you thought about it or any other event that you felt changed you! xo

Gearing up for Tough Mudder Las Vegas | Tough Cookies 2.0

Here I go again…getting that same nervous, anxious energy I felt before the Spartan Super earlier this month. This time, I’m gearing up for my second Tough Mudder event coming up on Sunday! If you are new to the blog, you may not know how Tough Mudder changed my life, but it really did. I won’t bore those how already know the story, but you can read my thoughts on Tough Mudder HERE and HERE!

I've been having a real hard time practicing this obstacle at Camp Rhino. Not sure what my problem is,but I know it's all in my head. I start running towards the ramp and then stop myself halfway. It's really annoying! I did it before, I can do it again and this photo proves it! I will get up Everest again. — I’ve been having a real hard time practicing this obstacle at Camp Rhino. Not sure what my problem is,but I know it’s all in my head. I start running towards the ramp and then stop myself halfway. It’s really annoying! I did it before, I can do it again and this photo proves it! I will get up Everest again.

I’m excited to be taking on my second Tough Mudder with 2 really good friends of ours! Last year, our friend Veronica couldn’t do it since she’d just had a baby a month before, but we convinced her hubby, Ernie, to join our team. This year, Veronica is joining team Tough Cookies and the 4 of us are ready to take on the 10+ mile course full of crazy obstacles that will really test our stamina and mental grit! We’ve been training at Camp Rhino and it’s been very helpful to give the obstacles a try. We’ve been calling our training sessions “double dates”! Yea, that’s how we roll! I encourage you to find an obstacle training gym/facility in your own city and if you’re from Vegas, you gotta check out Camp Rhino!

New obstacle - Fire in Your Hole. Like Wet N Wild, but with fire &muddy water at the bottom! — New obstacle – Fire in Your Hole. Like Wet N Wild, but with fire &muddy water at the bottom!

I’m so happy we don’t have a 2.5 hour drive this year to get to the event, since it’s being held at Lake Las Vegas, just 30 minutes away. I’m also anxious to try out the brand new Legionnaire Loop, which is only open to repeat Mudders and has some pretty challenging & fun looking obstacles. My sister will be coming along is the official Tough Cookies photographer and her hubby will be a spectator too! This is the first time he’s gone to any one of our crazy obstacle races, so it’s gonna be a real treat for him & hey, maybe he’ll even join us for the next one (Javier, are you reading this?!)

It’s really going to be fun having them encouraging us along the course! I just hope they’re nice to us for the Family Feud obstacle 😉

Getting knocked down by spectators during the Family Feud obstacle. This actually looks like fun!

Let’s do this!! Hoorah!!

Let the Training Begin | Bryce Canyon Half Marathon

This is the week. Week 1 of 12 weeks of half marathon training. There will be lots and lots of running in my future. I’m excited to try Hal Higdon’s Intermediate Half Marathon Training Schedule. I used his Novice Schedule for the Rock N Roll Half Marathon (my first half) and I think it went well. The training was totally do-able and hey, I finished the race, right? I decided on the intermediate schedule because I really want to work on my speed. I’d like to be a faster runner. I don’t have grandiose ideas of finishing in 1:30 or anything! My first half marathon this past November was with a time of 2:34. I wanted to finish in 2:30, but I was totally fine with my time. This year, I’d like to reach that 2:30 time or even beat it! I feel confident that I can do this mostly because the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon is mostly a downhill race 😉

What’s extra special about the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon & it’s training is that I’ll be running it alongside the hubs! Although he’s done some 10Ks, 5Ks, and of Tough Mudder with me, this will be his first half marathon! I couldn’t be more excited for him and for our upcoming 12 weeks of training. Logistically speaking, we won’t be training “together” but we’ll be able to push each other and hold ourselves accountable. Plus, there’s always that little bit of love & competitiveness that really pushes us to be the best we can and give it our al!

What’s your favorite half marathon training program? Have you ever ran a race with your spouse? Did you love it or hate it?

Xterra 5K Trail Run | Race 5 of 14 for 2014

So, how was your weekend? I hope it was fabulous! Mine started off really great celebrating my sister and brother-in-law’s 23rd wedding anniversary with a Japanese hibachi dinner on Friday night. Isn’t that wonderful, 23 years of marital bliss! Saturday we were up bright and early for the Xterra 5K Trail Run at Lake Las Vegas. I’m not a huge fan of 5Ks but since I’m trying to get 14 races in this year, I’m totally doing a few! I didn’t really train for this race. It was just a week after the Spartan Super and 2 weeks before Tough Mudder, so of course, post-race was all about Spartan Training, then I took 2 days off to recover. I only ran once the week before the race and it was just a fun 2 mile run/walk with my friend & my kiddos. I guess what I’m trying to say is that it wasn’t my best run! I really feel like I’m going to have to redeem myself on my next 5K trail run coming up next month! I placed 4th in my age group with a finish time of 38:25. I wish I would have pushed myself a little more, but it is what it is!

Before the race with our friends, Jessica & Geron. This was their first official race ever! So excited for them :) — Before the race with our friends, Jessica & Geron. This was their first official race ever! So excited for them 🙂

As far as the race itself, it was good. It wasn’t a huge race and everything went smoothly from on-site packet pickup to the course markers & volunteers. I had been told it wasn’t a true trail run and after doing the run, I can see why. We started off in a parking lot at the resort then ran the first mile through a golf course. The second mile was mostly uphill through the undeveloped area of Lake Las Vegas then back down to finish the last mile and a half through the resort and golf course. I’m assuming the longer distances of 10k and 21K were mostly trails. The post-race area was great. They had the usual post-race goodies of bananas, muffins, bagels, grapes, and orange slices, along with water and gatorade. I also really liked that they printed out our results on-site!

Post-race with my hubby! I love that he'll be running a few races with me this year!! It makes running that much more fun :) — Post-race with my hubby! I love that he’ll be running a few races with me this year!! It makes running that much more fun 🙂

Did you have a race this weekend? I’d love to hear how it went for you!

Spartan Super Las Vegas | Race 4 of 14 for 2014

I did it!! I completed my first Spartan Race and I must say, it went better than expected. I completed the Spartan Super in Las Vegas. I don’t want to do a long recap of each obstacle but I will say that I totally missed the Spear Throw, Traverse Wall (my foot cramped), and Rope Climb (honestly, I didn’t try hard with this one because sadly I made up my mind that I couldn’t do it). I also had some help with the monkey bars, bucket brigade, tire pull and of course, getting over those 8 ft walls! I’m super proud I was able to do the Hercules Hoist, Tire Flip, and well, basically just get through the whole thing. I’m wearing my bruises with pride 😉 I’m also super proud of my little guy. He did the Spartan Jr. He’d been running and “training” for his race too and seeing him so happy complete his 1 mile race and get his medal was just awesome!

I had a great team of guys and I will admit, being the only girl on the team, I was a bit nervous that I’d either slow them down or that they’d leave me behind. I’m glad to say that neither of those things happened. They helped me with obstacles when needed, we encouraged each other, and stayed together as a team. AROO!!!

Huge thanks to our support team who kept up on the spectator course to make sure we had enough water, coconut water, and even snacks!! Special thanks to my hubby for taking pictures throughout the course & my sister who always supports me in all I do! I love you so much xoxox

The final obstacle - Fire Jump! Then free beer :) — The final obstacle – Fire Jump! Then free beer 🙂

I got done just in time to go see my son do his Jr. Spartan Race! So excited and proud of him!

I am quite tempted to go for the Trifecta, complete the 3 Spartan Races in one year – Sprint, Super, and Beast! I signed up for the Spartan Sprint in Southern California this September, but logistically speaking I don’t think I”ll be able to make it to one of the Beast events..we’ll see 😉 I’m really excited for the Sprint in Temecula, not only because it’s wine country, but because my hubby will be joining me on this one and the wives of 2 of my teammates will be joining us too! I’m calling it the Couples Spartan Retreat 😉

My Thoughts Before Spartan Super Las Vegas…

What did I get myself into!!! I’m really excited to be running the Spartan Super tomorrow in Las Vegas, especially more so since I won the entry via the awesome Confessions of a City Eater blog! With the excitement however, comes major knots in my stomach and feelings of doubt and nervousness. I’ve been training hard, but of course, I could always train harder. There are some obstacles that down right scare me and I really hope my team doesn’t leave me in the dust! Today is not the day for self doubt, however. Today is the day to get pumped up and ready to give it my all tomorrow. I’m putting my big girl panties on, along with my mega cool funky leggings my sister found for me at Khols. OH YEAH! You won’t miss me on the course with those cool things! I’m geared and ready to have a good time. Tonight, I’m gonna carb up with a nice big plate of pasta (not Paleo, it’s ok, I’m not 100% all the time). I’ll also be taking my own advice from my post, 7 Tips for Conquering Your Next Obstacle Course Race, and packing all the essentials! Here’s a bit of what I’ve got to look forward to tomorrow! AROO!!!

Las Vegas Rock N Roll Kick Off 5K Run | Race 3 of 14 for 2014

Last night I went out and ran a great little 5K to kick off opening registration for the Las Vegas Rock N Roll Marathon hosted at one of my favorite running stores, Red Rock Running Company at The District. It was a nice time and although I was a little nervous being there alone, I did meet a friend from the running group I’m in on facebook, Moms Run this Town. She also introduced me to some other fabulous running ladies! It’s always great meeting new fun folks! I must take a moment and just give props to the running community. I am fairly new to running (heck, I’m fairly new to exercise in general!) but I gotta give it to runners, they are one friendly group of people! Always welcoming and encouraging – even if we just met 15 minutes ago. I love that and I think that is one of the reasons I enjoy signing up for races and going on group runs. The camaraderie is great. Growing up, I never played sports or participated in many group activities so I never really got to know what that felt like. Clearly, this explains a lot about my social awkwardness/anxiety issues! YIKES, this post is turning into a psychology lesson!

Ok back to running…this was a fairly small event but it was well put together. I was impressed that they even had an aid station midway with water and GU Energy Gel! I grabbed one to try later 😉 We also got a nice tshirt and they raffled off lots of prizes at the end. I won a Rock N Roll Marathon water bottle – WOOT WOOT! The grand prize was a free entry to the marathon. That would have been super!

Although I won’t be participating in the Rock N Roll marathon this year, it holds a special place in my heart as being my first ever half marathon. So many fun memories made that night and the months leading up to it! You can read all about the experience and check out some fun photos HERE!

What fun races have you been running this year? What do you love about the running community? Don’t be shy 🙂

Bubble Run Las Vegas | Race #2 of 14 for 2014

Last Saturday I ran the Bubble Run with a few friends and my 5 year old daughter! It was her first 5K and she just loved it. I knew people would be dressed in costumes, especially tutus and I explained this to her and asked if she’d like a fun outfit for the run. Her reply was this, “No way! I’m not wearing a tutu! I’m in it to win it!” Clearly, she has a bit of a competitive streak!!

We picked up our packet on Friday and since kids under 6 run free she didn’t get a tshirt or bib. Of course, they sold kid packets for $20 and I had to get her one. I’m so glad I did. The bib really made her feel legit and the goggles they provided worked great to keep the bubbles out of her eyes. Friday night, she could not fall asleep from the excitement, but had no problem getting up early for her ‘race’. She was ready for the fun to start.

It was so cute seeing her reaction at the starting line when the bubbles/foam started coming down! The race had a total of 4 different color bubble stations: pink, green, blue, and yellow. We did a bit of running and walking, but I think for a little 5 year old, Elysse did great and never complained about being tired. Every time she saw a bubble station she would start running and we ran all the way to the finish line. I was very proud of my little runner! After the run, they had a little area with a DJ and they were giving away prizes and of course, lots more bubbles! It was hard to get our little party animal out of the bubble pit!

Obviously, this wasn’t a timed race or anything too serious for me (believe me, I have enough of those coming up!) This race was just a fun time and a good way to encourage a healthy lifestyle for my kiddos. I want them to grow up feeling strong and healthy and having some positive experiences and fun memories being active! My 9 yr old didn’t want to do this one, but he’s all signed up for Saturday’s Jr. Spartan!

What are some fun things you and your family do to stay active and healthy? I’d love some more ideas, so feel free to share them in the comments below 🙂

Road Trip in a Box | The Happy Family Movement

I am so excited we FINALLY got to use our Road Trip in a Box kit from The Happy Family Movement! If you haven’t been over to their website, you’re missing out on a great resource for family fun! I met Josh & Jenny, the fab couple behind the website, a few years ago at a photographers workshop and have gotten to know them throughout the years. They took our family photos last year & we just love them! They are truly inspiring and I love how they are honest about family life and focus on living intentionally.

Isn't the packaging just too cute?!?! — Isn’t the packaging just too cute?!?!

Anyhow, awhile back I won this Road Trip in a Box kit from the giveaway they hosted (woohoo!). We have been on lots of trips since then, but none were road trips long enough that I felt we needed or could use the Road Trip in a Box until now. We took it out and used in on our road trip to Ensenada, Mexico. You can read all about the trip HERE!

The Road Trip in a Box comes with a manual that helps plan your trip and has helpful tips on what to pack, etc. It’s great if you’re new to road trippin’ with kiddos or if you haven’t been to successful in the past 😉 It also includes activities with instructions all wrapped up with a designated time to open them during the trip. These activities really helped us have fun during the trip and gave the kids something to look forward to, as well.

I highly recommend checking out their website for lots of family fun ideas, especially their Summer Bucket List Challenge coming up! Of course, if you are planning a road trip with your little ones, this Road Trip in a Box is a real lifesaver. It’s just got simple and fun activities that the whole family will enjoy together. It makes the time driving to your destination part of the adventure and not just a long boring drive. Our kids would really look forward to when it was time to open a new package because they knew they’d be getting out of the car and doing something fun.

Check out more from The Happy Family Movement and their Road Trip in a Box is on sale right now! You don’t want to miss out on all the fun!

7 Tips for Conquering your next Obstacle Course Race

I’m 10 days away from my first Spartan race! I’m doing the Super Spartan on April 5th and I’m super nervous and excited. I’ve also got my second Tough Mudder on April 27th. I’ve been training hard with my trainer twice a week and getting my Pure Intensity Training classes at the gym too. I’ve even taken it up a notch by joining Camp Rhino. This place is pretty cool and I should do a full blog post about it soon, but for now, just know that it’s an obstacle training facility that offers a ton of training classes, drop-ins, and a ton more!! So, do I feel prepared? Of course not! Not sure I will ever feel prepared before any obstacle race. But, they really do push your limits and get you out of your comfort zone. The feeling of accomplishment afterwards is surreal!
Anyhow, today I want to share with you a few tips that will help you be ready come race day.

1. Don’t wear cotton. I’ve said this before and I will say it again! Don’t wear cotton!! It drags, it stays wet, and drags you down. Stick to dry wicking fabrics. This includes everything from socks and underwear too, not just your shirt and pants! Trust me 😉

2. Ladies, invest in a good maximum support sports bra with light padding. You’ll be wet pretty much the entire time during the race, you don’t want your girls exposed 😉

3. Wear long pants. I made the mistake of wearing compression shorts for the Badass Dash and let me tell ya, never again! My knees and legs were so messed up from crawling under barbed wire and banged up and burned from climbing walls and ropes. Protect your legs and wear long form fitting pants that won’t drag when they’re wet!

4. Tie your sneakers tight. You’ll be running in and out of water and mud and want to make sure you don’t leave your sneakers behind!

5. A change of clothes & deodorant. You’ll be muddy, wet, and gross. The last thing you want is to get in your car back home or to eat afterwards in that. Most races should have a shower and/or changing area so bring a towel. Clean, dry clothes will feel amazing after being in wet cold clothes! Don’t forget a clean pair of shoes too! Flip flops work great 🙂

6. Garbage bag. You’ll need a place to throw in those dirty wet clothes you just got out of 🙂

7. Have fun and take pictures! Obstacle course races are designed to test your physical and mental limits. They’re tough, but also a lot of fun and you’ll want to snap a few before and after shots 🙂

xo,

Jessie