Half Marathon Training – Putting the Cart Before the Horse

I’d like to think of myself as a pretty motivated person, but a little extra nudge never hurt anybody. So, I signed up for my first half marathon – the Disney Princess Half Marathon which will be held on Sunday, February 24, 2013 at “The Happiest Place on Earth.”

Have I started training? No, I really don’t count doing 1.5 miles randomly twice a week as actual training. But I did download the Jeff Galloway Training Program and have scanned through it. Even better, Jeff Galloway actually has a training class in Atlanta that one of my friends had signed up for last year.

In addition to my random runs, I also have a kickboxing membership to Bangkok Boxing in Midtown that I try to attend twice a week. It’s a great cardio workout that also works out my arms (so I can pump harder) and tones my core (for strong abs and back to maintain a proper running posture). While I’m no beast at it, it’s definitely a lot of fun and I never regret making it to a class.

Do I have any support? Yes, I signed up with my beautiful sisters who live in the sunny west coast of California. We each have our own reasons, but a half marathon was one of the top items on my list of “30 things to do before I turn 30.” While there are several other items on that “30 before 30” list that I’ll share later, this will hopefully be the stepping stone to perhaps someday running a full marathon or Iron Man. Who knows. 🙂

If you need inspiration, check out “Unthinkable” by Scott Rigsby to learn about his amazing journey as the first double amputee to finish an Iron Man. And he’s just as interesting if not more in person!

So, will you join me? If not for the race, at least for the training and ‘get fit’ mindset!

My official training will start either mid September (after Labor Day of course) or October, so stay tuned to check out my progress. And I’m always open to any advice you veteran runners have when it comes to training, diet and tips!

What’s Gu’ing on?

Gu’s Bistro! That’s what’s goin’ on.

My co-worker and I love exploring Buford Highway and are often rewarded with great gems such as Gu’s. While I must admit that I don’t think I’ve actually had authentic Szechuan food before trying Gu’s Bistro, I am proud to check that off my list and hope to make a trip back with my friends who are always looking for a little more heat in their food.

As is expected of most great hole in the walls, Gu’s isn’t a place that’s easily spotted from the road. In fact, it’s located in a strip mall just behind the Chick-fil-A. But don’t let the exterior deceive you.

We started off with Chengdu Style Cold Noodles that had just the right amount of heat and really prepped our appetite for the following dishes.

Listed as one of the popular picks, the stuffed tofu quickly became my favorite dish (and gave my mouth a break from the spice). The tofu is stuffed with shrimp and mushrooms, fried, then served along with bok choy, bamboo shoots and more mushrooms. While I admit that I am not the biggest tofu fan, I couldn’t help but have a change of heart for tofu dishes after the first bite.The soft and firm tofu is pairs well with its stuffing and encased in the fried tofu.

We also tried the Chengdu Dumplings served in red chili oil. Although the red chili oil is usually served as a condiment at most other places or sometimes only available upon request, these dumplings were served in a bowl of the hot liquid. >__< But have no fear, this dish can also be served in chicken soup or hot & sour soup for milder options.

Not pictured is the Cumin Lamb that is appropriately labeled with two chili peppers on the menu and cooked just long enough that the meat is soft and not chewy. Highly suggested for the lamb fans. Hope you get a chance to check this place out the next time you’re in the area!

Gu’s Bistro
5750 Buford Hwy NE, Suite A
Doraville, GA 30340