Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Chewing Gum Theory and Other Ramblings

Chewing Gum Theory
I have made an observation on my last two runs – I run faster when chewing gum. I am sure it doesn’t look pretty while I am running, but I work the gum while I run, chewing hard or popping it as I run along. Somehow channeling my pain or tiredness into my gum allows me to run faster. I don’t regularly or purposefully chew gum when I run, but I might start, just to see if it makes a difference. I will definitely have some gum waiting for me in T2 of my race next weekend. So, does anyone else agree with my theory that chewing gum makes you run faster? If you can’t walk and chew gum at the same time, this question does not apply to you! ;)

Coach Search
My coach search has gone really well and I think that I have found someone – stay tuned! I am very excited about the prospect and I appreciate the encouragement to find someone. I think for me the most important factor was finding someone that I trust AND with whom I have good rapport. More to come!

Marathon Moms
I am on the Runner’s World email distribution and their latest email had a link to an article titled “Marathon Moms.” I found it to be a humorous, honest read. There are 3 short articles back to back – the first two on the dynamics between spouses, one on spouses who both run and another on a spouse who does run and the other does not and the third on a mother’s view of running and its effect on her children. Definitely worth the read – especially the third one which completely resonated with me. Check it out and let me know what you think.

4 comments:

Big Daddy Diesel said...

I read somewhere that gums helps keep your mouth moist, thus making you feel less thirsty while running. Now I dont know how valid that is.

I run and bike with gum. And I have gum in for transition.

One race, I forgot I tossed a piece in my shoes, and I took off on the run, when I got home, I couldnt figure out why my sock was stuck to my shoe, then I saw the gum. Wasnt funny then, but its funny now.

LDub said...

i dont know about FASTER but i enjoy running with gum a lot more!! same reason as you...takes my mind elsewhere than just the pain!

i believe also it helps control your breathing and therefore keep hr lower.

what flavor is the question!? :)

Ironman By Thirty said...

I've found that chewing gum can help keep acid reflux at bay when I run. I've only tested it a few times, but each time I got that nasty burning in my throat, I popped a piece of mint gum and the discomfort was gone in no time. I think it has to be mint gum (not bubblegum) for this to work though :)

Scott Skalny said...

wow i have never, ever ran or biked with gum...but now i'm gonna give it a shot!