January started a bit rocky for me. I was still struggling with the holiday hangover. It wasn’t very easy to shake, but around the middle of the month, I started to turn it around.
I committed to working out. It was still tricky, but I hit every weight training session but one and did several runs. It was harder for me to get back into running because I had no plan and real goals.
Training is hard when you have no end game.
I finally decided to make my 2020 goal to complete the Hot as Hell quarter marathon. I had registered for this a few years ago but did not start (DNS). I ended up doing it virtually later. I also did the same route as a different race, and it was miserable. Here’s a reminder. I want to do this race and conquer it! I know I can do better.

I may also do a trail half marathon in December, but I haven’t decided just yet. 2020 will focus on building trail miles and muscle. I need to learn how to fule for trail runs. I struggle with hunger and energy, even on short distances. My current plan, based on asking others more experienced than myself, is to eat PickyOats for breakfast, take a fuel just before starting, and then every 30-45 minutes after. I also need to take my Nuun Endurance too. I’ve only been taking water.
I would also love to drop about 20 pounds and some body fat. Hopefully, lifting weights will help. I’m currently doing JG40 and plan to restart once I get through the 12-week program. I’m trying to log my food every day and hit my calorie target. I get close most days, but I don’t beat myself up if I’m over.
All of this leads to… I’M GOING TO RUN A 50K IN MARCH 2021!
I’ve decided to forget the road marathon and jump right to a trail ultra. I’ve already picked the race, and it’s a park I run and hike fairly regularly. I can practice the trails while building my distance. I also plan a “warm-up” 20-mile race in January 2021 at my favorite park I go to almost weekly. I am so stoked for 2021!