Princess Half Marathon Runner Essentials

Last year I attempted my first half marathon and failed (you can read about it HERE) so I decided to give it another shot this year. I have several friends who also signed up this year for their first half marathon and that have asked me for my race day essentials so I decided I’d share it with all of you! I’m by no means a professional runner...I’m a big girl who’s slow AF but damn it I’m out there trying. Here’s my list to keep you going, comfy, and cute!

photo via @DisneyMomSquad on Instagram

To Keep You Going

In the days leading up to the race it's so important to not try new things that could upset your stomach and digestion. You want to hydrate more than you ever have and load up on healthy carbs to two days before. I was recommend the two items below and they honestly really helped during the race. Also take advantage of the free Biofreeze at the first aid stops!

GU Energy Gel

Jelly Belly Sports Beans

To Keep You Comfy

Good running shoes: go to a running store and get fitted for them. Usually the fitting is free and it makes all the difference. The socks are just as important. You want to make sure they have arch support and don't slide off. Few things are worse than chaffing so cover your body in Body Glide. If you think you think it could chaff there put the cream there. My sister and I both wore running leggings and still put body glide on our thighs and neither of us chaffed at all.

Body Glide (cream)

Running socks

Cropped running leggings

To Keep You Cute

I was so nervous about the race last year that I didn't really get into the fun of dressing up. I will try to be more fun when it comes to my outfit this year but the key is to keep your outfit light and comfortable. I opt for a headpiece that doesn't squeeze my headband like a headband or Minnie ears would.

Glitter Running Skirt

Ponytail Tiara

Read More

What Have I Gotten Myself Into?!

You read that right people. This girl is registered for her first ever half marathon! I am a complete mix of nerves, excitement, and fear but I love it. I had always heard that you change so much when you become a parent and now that I've gone through it myself I have to agree. So many people (myself included) think that your life is "over" once you have children but I have to say I completely disagree. I've become a better wife, daughter, sister, friend, and person since becoming a mom and deciding to do this half marathon proves it. I want to teach Brynn that you should do things that are out of your comfort zone and that you don't think you can do. I want her to have a healthy relationship with food and exercise in a way that I never did. I'm finally ready to take the step towards a healthier life and am starting a program (today is my first session) with a health coach who has the most amazing mindset on healthful living that I can't wait to learn from. Wish me luck y'all!

I have been to dozens of Run Disney events as a working cast member (directing runners, getting them checked in, handing out medals, cheering them on, and unfortunately picking runners up who weren't keeping pace) but have only ran in one event myself. The Princess 5K back in 2013 with my friends Alexis, Billye (Alexis' mom), and Kacie. We all are running the half marathon together and adding my sister, bestie Natalie, and my health coach/Natalie's sister Diana to our running pack. Here are some pics from the 5K all those years ago. I can't wait to see the pictures we will get from the half!

Post Race Pics from 2013

Let the training begin y'all! Do you have any advice for me? Have you ever ran a ha;f marathon or race at Disney? Comment below!

Read More