Posts

#kkrushvert Running Statistics - 2022 and Year to Date

Image
Kevin Brunson running statistics year to date and 2022. Year to date: Distance: 202.4 miles Time: 51 hours  Elevation gain: 30,804 feet (5.83 miles) Year totals for 2022: Days run: 365 Distance: 2,670.90 miles Time: 692 hours Elevation gain: 605,951 feet (114.76 miles)

Dick Collins Firetrails 50 Miler race report.

Image
     Photo credit: Esther Searcy (@esthersearcyphoto). It was my first 50 miler and I was in the restroom when the race started. I was one minute behind the pack and because of the distance, I was okay with it. I was feeling strong, I ran at a steady pace (no walking) while it was cooler, after clearing the initial single-track congestion. After the aid station at the halfway point (out and back), my glutes and legs were feeling heavy, so I started walking and running from that point on. At mile 36, my self-talk was about keeping my feet moving and finishing my first 50 miler. Mentally I was in a good place because I was confident that if I kept my legs moving, I would be able to finish. After 40 miles the toughest sections of the course were the downhills. My right leg below the quad felt weaker than my left, so I paid close attention to my stride mechanics from that point on. It got hot from mile 30. I was using evaporative cooling techniques at each aid station by pouring ice in

Trail running - mental resilience.

Image
One of the traits my mentor Fred Zalokar (RIP) demonstrated to me was being mentally resilient. In the mountains, I've learned to have a warrior mentality, and my mission is to meet any challenge with the confidence that I will prevail. Because I learned this trait two decades ago, it’s part of my natural being. The only way I know to strengthen this trait is to follow through in training/races. For example; if I plan a 20-mile run then I have an obligation to myself to complete the distance. If it's an ultra event, I'll do everything in my power to finish. If I were to get in the habit of modifying my runs because it becomes more difficult than anticipated, then I will weaken my resolve when a true test arises.  Enjoy the journey, and fight to stay active. ⛰🏃🏻🐐

Simple running and hiking tips to stay cool while enjoying the mountains. ⛰️⛰️⛰️

Image
  If you spend a lot of time on mountain trails as I do, you are probably aware that it's getting warmer. It's important to think about how you are going to stay hydrated and cooler before you start your run or hike. If there are water sources available, an excellent accessory is a filtered water bottle. In many cases, if you are sure of active water sources on your chosen route, you don't have to be extreme about carrying your own hydration. Which can help in the amount of energy you expend, and the more you carry the more difficult it can be to keep your body temperature in the normal range. I do recommend always packing some water on your person. If there are water sources available I like to use the water I packed last. I like to pack some electrolyte supplements or pack electrolyte drinks. I prefer to pack water and have electrolyte tabs for the versatility of hydration and cooling. As a runner, my natural instinct is the less I carry, the better, so I can utilize the

May 06, 2022 - Mountain Trail Run on Thomas Creek Trail

Image
  Strava title of run: "You gotta have the marshmallow, that's what makes it fun." Check out the complete run link below. https://www.strava.com/activities/7097671568?utm_campaign=ride_share&utm_content=32540405&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=www.kevinbrunson.com

Let's move.

Image
While I was running, it occurred to me that what all humans do best is move their bodies. We all move in different ways, and in some ways the more we move the more fun we can have throughout our lives. An example in my life. Because I've been running at least one mile a day for over 14 1/2 years. I can eat that piece of pie. Why, because I run and by running I burn calories. I love to run, and I like pie. So in my life, the more I run, the more I can enjoy the simpler things in life. That's right. That piece of pie. Sure it's important that I eat a healthy balanced diet. If I run daily, how strict do I have to be? That's the question.  Let's move!