by Run Diva
After a very magical Disneyland 5k experience the day before, I popped right up out of bed the next day excited for the race ahead. My two friends, Danielle and Lauren, were meeting me at my corral around 5:20am so all I had to do was look for an alien and Buzz Lightyear! The race started off as we ran through the streets of Anaheim and through the Anaheim Convention Center. We entered in through the back stage area of California Adventure for miles 2 and 3.
We took our pace pretty easy seeing as we had the half marathon the next day. We followed the Jeff Galloway run/walk/run method that goes with the RunDisney training. This helps prevent your muscles from getting too fatigued the next day. It worked for us, but we also trained that way. We did back to back runs on the weekends using our intervals. I usually train all of my runs to do a speed run for 2 minutes and a speed walk for 30 seconds. I’ve actually improved my mile time and have felt that I can go longer. Diva Tip: I do not recommend trying this for the first time at the race, stick to your training. Remember, don’t try anything new on race day!
California Adventure had some great picture spots from the pier to Cars Land again. We also saw Lady Tremaine by the Art of Animation building.
As we walked up to take our picture she asked “Who let you out of your boxes?” So cute!
I have to admit, last year’s theme was Lilo and Stitch and I liked this year’s so much more. The picture stops last year were just a few Elvis impersonators at each mile marker and some villains around Small World. This seemed to have a more of a “Disney” feel with classic characters like Aladdin and Captain Hook.
We left California Adventure, ran through more of the back stage area and came in through the ticket booths at Disneyland. As we ran through Main Street we knew we had to stop for a picture with our pal Dumbo since we were earning his medal the next day. The three of us were making great time considering all of the added stops to take pictures. I can usually run a 10k in just a little under an hour but with the stops, this added about 20 minutes. Honestly, when I’m doing a RunDisney race I’m there to enjoy, smile, and have fun! I don’t bring on any extra stress or expectations other than that.
Over by Small World there was a long line for the Queen of Hearts and the Evil Queen from Snow White, we waited about 10 minutes but it was worth it!
After a quick Small World selfie we were off to finish the race strong! We left Disneyland by Splash Mountain and ran through Downtown Disney to mile 6. We didn’t use energy gels or snacks along the way since the mileage was a bit lower for this day. As you continue to race, you’ll find the time zone or mileage where your body needs something. We knew we had plenty of snacks waiting for us at the finish line so we waited.
Just like that race number 2 was over and conquered. I didn’t plan on us going to the parks after at all only because I wanted fresh legs for the next day. We did manage to make our way to Goofy’s Kitchen for some Mickey waffles and it was worth it!
The best recovery for race days that are back to back consists of:
- Compression socks immediately after the race.
- A meal that is low fat, moderate protein, and mostly carbohydrates.
- Water and electrolytes all day.
- Active rest. Don’t be bed ridden all day, get up and move but don’t over do it. Moving is the best way to avoid tight muscles.
- Stretch before bed
- SLEEP!
With happy thoughts in our minds, we drifted off to sleep for the next race!
