Compared to previous years we definitely weren’t as muddy, but we were ok with that.  When you cross the finish line you’re handed a headband and beer. Erin didn’t have a problem drinking two beers. She deserved it!

Fit, tough & four months pregnant!

What I wore:

After two other races I feel as though I have my attire dialed.

Shoes: Merrell All Out Fuse

Socks: Merrell Siren Sport Sock

Pants: The North Face GTD Capri Tights

Tank: Old Navy

Sports Bra: C9 by Champion

Thoughts Racing Pregnant:

Everyone is different and you should always listen to your body. During my first doctor appointment we discussed my workout regimen, outdoor activities and Tough Mudder. She told me I could still race, but should skip certain obstacles (i.e., Arctic Enema, Electric Shock and anything I could potentially slam my body on).

Leading up to Tough Mudder I continued to crossfit, spin and run every week. Don’t forget I went into my pregnancy very fit — about 20% BMI (March fitness update).

My race partner was awesome. We kept a nice pace throughout the race, walked during the steep inclines and skipped any obstacles I  shouldn’t do (four total). I pushed myself, but played it smart. It’s amazing what your body can do.

Over the course of 10.25 miles there were five water stations. At each station I made sure to hydrate with a few cups of water. There were also energy gummies/bars and bananas at each station. These little snacks helped us go the distance. Of course I made sure the gummies/bars didn’t contain any caffeine.

On another note, at 16 weeks I’m not really showing. This was also a huge factor. If I was any bigger I probably won’t feel comfortable with an obstacle race. 

If you’re pregnant and signed up for a race I would say go for it, but check with your doctor first. As I previously mentioned I’m happy with my decision and would participate in Tough Mudder again.  Now recruiting for 2015!

Post Race Recovery:

Oh, man I’m sore! Lot’s of water, stretching and clean eating. Sunday I went for an hour walk with my hubby and pup. Walking it out helped. Today I walked again, but tomorrow I’ll be right back at crossfit.

Linking up with Join the Gossip

Tips:

• Train, train and train some more. It’s never too early. And cross train. Run, lift weighs, check out that yoga class, etc.
• It’s not really necessary for gloves, goggles or knee pads. There
  are a few times you wish you had them but do you really want to carry
  them for 10-12 miles? No
• There’s plenty of water stops along the way so no need to carry water.
• Tighten your laces and make sure to double knot (I never stopped because of this) 
• Leave cotton clothes at home or at least until after the race… remember you’re going to get wet. Focus on lightweight pieces with moisture wicking — think Columbia, The North Face, Patagonia.
• If you wear contacts bring eye drops.
• Work together as a team even if you don’t know the person remember it’s not about your personal time, but teamwork.
• Encourage other racers around you, it makes them feel good.
• Lastly, HAVE FUN!

This wasn’t like every other Tough Mudder the elevation gain was 2,000+ ft  (7,500 ft to about 9,500+ ft) and at one point we were hiking straight up hill. The advantage… it wasn’t as muddy since Tahoe is mostly granite. Don’t get me wrong there was plenty of mud to go around.

Tough Mudder encourages dressing up… so of course we did…. and all the tutu’s are handmade!

Our journey went something like this:

Nine ladies from South Lake Tahoe in tutu’s ran 11.4 miles and nailed 20 obstacles…. yes they are tough and yes they girly.

Pre-start looking fabulous….

Arica and I pre race — we still have no clue….

Crowd shot: racers and spectators

Muddy mess close up

muddy , muddy shoes — what to do?

…. Donate, the saying is “all good tough shoes go to Africa”

• Shoes: New Balance 875  (Trail Running)
• Socks: Merrell Siren Sport Sock
• I typical hike in these socks and LOVE them. They never fell into my shoe, even soaking wet or pushing through muddy pits. I highly recommend these socks and you can bet I will be buying more. I didn’t have any blisters either!
• Shorts: C9 by Champion  (that’s right I rocked shorts from Target) 
• These shorts surprised me. They were pretty quick to dry and no chaffing from the material! 
• Top: Old  sports tank from Old Navy (yup that’s right) something like this
• Again I had no idea what was going to happen. This top worked nicely.
• Sports Bra: C9 by Champion seamless cami bra (that’s right I rocked a sport bra from Target too)
• OK – I just love the sports Bra’s from Target — period.

Tips:

• It’s not really necessary for gloves, goggles or knee pads. There are a few times you wish you had them but do you really want to carry them for 10-12 miles? No
• There are plenty of water stops along the way so there really isn’t a need for a camel back unless you really need  water every 10 minutes.
• Tighten your laces and make sure to double knot (I never stopped because of this) 
• Less is more… Remember you’re going to be wet the more clothes you have on the longer it takes to dry
• If you wear contacts bring eye drops… first aid didn’t have any and it gets dusty from time to time.
• Leave cotton clothes at home or at least until after the race… remember you’re going to get wet.
• Work together as a team even if you don’t know the person remember it’s not about your personal time, but teamwork.
• Check in with your teammates you might be at a 10, but your mate needs to take it to a 7 for 5 minutes (or vice versus) it’s about teamwork at the end of the day, right?
• Encourage others racers around you, it makes them feel good.
• Lastly, HAVE FUN!

Do you think you have what it takes? Take the test here.

Linked to weekend updates: Five30Three, Sami’s Shenanigans and Join The Gossip