the ritual

As I was getting ready for my long run today, I started feeling a sense of appreciation for the ritual. It's so important not to skip any steps. 

I drink a cup of coffee while braiding my hair. It's important that my hair is in a protective hairstyle, and I can do this quietly while others in the house are still sleeping. Also, I use the toilet to poop. 

I put my phone, headphones, and smartwatch on their chargers. Then I eat something, like a package of Belvita. https://share.google/w67B3NIJqyfyCcGKw

I start by preparing my groin area. Ride in Comfort with Chamois Butt'r Her - The Women's Choice for Chafe Prevention! https://share.google/AXXgVwbwpT5EpmNrl

Then, I put on shorts or a skort. Next, I lubricate my ribcage. Any fold of skin where skin touches skin is a good place to lubricate. Body Glide Anti Chafe https://share.google/hCdNtJJJbrdWAo1rV

I go all the way around my torso along the bra line. I do my armpits and the top of my arms. This entire ritual is evidence-based, covering all hotspots that have chafed earlier in the season.

I put on my bra(s), shirt, and arm sleeves. I put compression sleeves on my calves. Then, I turn my attention to the feet.

I check my toenails to make sure they are not sharp. I slather a generous amount of Chamois Buttr between my toes, on the tops of my toes, on the bottoms of my toes, on the sides of my toes, on the arch of my foot, and on my heel. Chamois Buttr https://share.google/18zdtP8BoUTy176WY

Then I put on socks and shoes.

Feetures Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Socks https://share.google/kLUV8Ejhtm8OhFOJ1

I dress my wrists by adding the smartwatch when it's charged. I add some friendship bracelets and a sweat wristband to clip my GymBoss to. I use a Junk headband to cover my ears and headphones, then a hat or visor and sunglasses.

My husband said that since I'm big-chested, I have had to take special consideration with my running outfit, maybe more than other people. I'm not sure if that is true, since anyone of any size can experience chafing. I practice fueling on all long runs. Even if I didn't get 20 miles in today, I still feel ready for the marathon. 

My new training strategy has been no runs over 5 hours. I'll let you know how it goes. The idea was that running longer than 5 hours does more damage than it helps you adapt.