White sand and blue skies: Running the Clearwater Halfathon

It was a chilly morning, and gathered in the glow of the dawn were thousands of runners ready to "Conquer the Causeway" in Clearwater, Florida. The race, scheduled for 7:05AM started off about 20 minutes late, so by the time the runners were moving, the sun was up and the warm gulf breeze was starting to set in.

The Halfathon, which is the Half-Marathon, is joined by a Full Marathon Option as well as a 5 miler, and a 5K. This is the third of four races in the Florida Gulf Beaches Road Race series, and will be expanded to include a 50K in January 2015. 

The race had very little ocean view... a quarter mile or so on the way out and the same on the way back, but the glimpse was enough to remind those of us that live a few hours away why this coast can beckon - the sand is white and the water is blue... and even on a cold morning such as this it looks so inviting. 

Runners soon learned that they would conquer the causeway multiple times, four times (twice over two different bridges) in the Halfathon. While challenging, this does provide some of the best views during the race. 

Much of the race was an "out-and-back" on a fairly busy road, much of which was a single track and difficult for runners to pass. This did not prove problematic during the halfathon, however several runners running the marathon (within the time limits) remarked that by the time they were headed back the police support had been pulled at the end and runners were getting lost, and the traffic was very heavy. 

The medals for the Clearwater Running and Fitness Festival, as well as all of the races put on by Chris Lauber, the Race Director (who often mentions the evolving designs are the artistry of his wife) are a huge draw for these events. They are both playful and high quality, and match the long sleeve heavy weight cotton tee. The shirt was one of two options, runners could also opt for a short sleeve technical tee. 

After the race, runners were treated to the normal post race snacks: Bananas, Beer, Water, Soda, Cookies, etc... but at the end of this line was a pasta station with two delicious options. As part of my, ahem, "blogging duties" I sampled both.... and both, I am happy to report, were quite delicious!

Once home I engaged in a new post-race ritual: The Detox Bath. 2 cups Epsom salt, one cup baking soda, and some essential oils are added to hot water. A 30-40 minute soak, while I re-hydrate and read restores my joints and leaves me feeling fresh, but very relaxed. 

This seems to be helping with all of my double race weekends... I was ready (and did) hit the gym on Monday with little soreness! 

Healing the Body: Thai Massage

There was a time when getting a massage was a part of pampering, an afternoon of luxury and an escape from reality. 

Not for a runner.

Massage is an essential part of a training plan. Not only will it help runners reach a higher level of performance, but will also assist in avoiding injury. 

There are many types of massage, both deep-tissue and sports massage are popular among athletes. Lately however, I have been exploring an alternative therapy: 
Thai Massage. 

Developed in Thailand, this practice combines massage and assisted stretching. It is preformed on large mat on the floor, with both the client and therapist dressed comfortably. 

If you read about the history and practice of Thai massage, it is often referred to assisted yoga. The moving and manipulation of the body is all preformed by the therapist. You may experience that the hardest task the client needs to complete during the hour is trying to relax and let the therapist work.

I received my first Thai Massage, and every one since, at The Studio Spa and Garden of Healing. This is where I go for all of my massage and facial treatments. 


There were moments during my first session that I questioned what exactly I had gotten myself into. Lying down on my back with the therapists feet working my hamstrings while his hands massaged the arch of my foot was mentally awkward - however, when I felt my hip flexors relax and my IT Band ease.... my mind got on-board with the movements. 

We spend a lot of money on race registrations, travel, and accommodations. Much of this is pre-paid, non-refundable, and paid month in advance. One injury can ruin these plans, and derail a training program completely. Making an investment in the health and maintenance of your body can keep you on track.

Many people who understand this concept and agree with the need for massage, end up jumping from therapist to therapist to get good deals. In this day of Groupon and Living Social Vouchers, it is tempting. I admit, it was Groupon that originally brought me to the Studio Spa, but it was the staff that made me a loyal client.

If you are looking for a new restaurant or experience - jumping around is fine, and even fun. When it comes to your body, your skin and muscles and bones and health - it is essential that you develop a relationship with your therapist. After multiple visits, they know what your body feels like, what is normal, and how to give you the best possible treatment. 

Recognizing the temptation to move around, and rooted in a core belief that Spa Services should be accessible to the average person, The Studio Spa has many methods of offering affordable services to their clientele. Their Facebook Followers and Email recipients are offered Daily Specials. These specials do not need to be used the day they are offered, but can be banked for future use. Spa memberships for even greater discounts are also available.

It is true. You can stretch yourself. You can get a foam roller try and smooth out those aches and loosen up your joints. It hurts, it is hard to do effectively, and ultimately  many of us do not do it the way we should. That is why I love my moments of Zen in the hands of my therapist, I know that this is a part of my running journey I cannot afford to compromise.

If you get massage, I encourage you to try Thai Massage. If you are in the Orlando area, The Studio Spa and Garden of Healing (1245 Michigan Ave, Winter Park - 407-332-4772) is the place to go.... you will not be disappointed.