The necessity of the evil bugger

Leaving Garmin at home is NOT an option.

Following my last post, I had a couple people suggest I leave Garmin at home and run free of technology. I’ve heard this a few times over the years, especially last season when I endured some of my most troublesome times in the sneakers and was fast losing motivation. They told me I was putting too much pressure on myself, I had to let go of the numbers, just run for the love of running. They blamed Garmin. They said Garmin needed to have a rest.

Which is all well and good for short runs. I’ve had no problems some runs leaving Garmin behind and opting to feel my pace rather than see it. But for long runs, I will fight tooth and nail, no matter how frustrating that bugger can be, to keep her latched to my wrist every single time.

Garmin is about more than just keeping time and pace. She is my notification for checking blood sugars and she tells me when I need to take in more fuel. Without her, I would have no clue. My internal clock does not have a blaring alarm to alert me, and by the time you’re hungry, that’s generally the first sign it’s too late.

Liquid fuel (homemade sports drink) needs Garmin like I need Garmin.
Liquid fuel (homemade sports drink) needs Garmin like I need Garmin.

So, when she does crap out like she so inconveniently did Sunday morning, I am at the mercy of my fellow runners. (Thank GOODNESS I have found fellow runners!) These girls were my lifeline, being that alarm, every 15 minutes notifying me of the time. I’m not sure they realized just how incredibly beneficial that was. I was able to test my blood sugars right on the dot at 30 minutes in. (Side note: This was the FIRST time I have ever tested, while running, no stopping – and I didn’t fall flat on my face!!! Success!!!). I was able to start the process of taking in fuel as directed. I was able to get through the run without any mishaps, diabetes or run related. Huge, Huge, HUGE thanks!

Garmin Ladies!
Garmin Ladies!

TONIGHT’S SPEED INTERVALS
5:50 p.m. BG before: 5.6
Temp. basal: -40% (1 hour)
Carbs: 1/2 banana (15g)
Time: 59:57
Distance: 9.85 km –> 14 x 2:00 at 5 km goal pace with 1:00 walk in between each set.
Average interval pace: 4:43 min/km
7 p.m. BG after: 8.0

I’ve got to say, I’m really enjoying looking at my stats following these kinds of runs. Not only are they at a good clip, they are a consistent clip – 14 times over! That’s pretty freaking awesome! Now bring on the Christmas Eve rouladen 🙂

Purple = greater than 95 steps per minute. Blue = between 70-95 steps per minute.
Purple = greater than 95 steps per minute.
Blue = between 70-95 steps per minute.

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