Even though I’ve been running and working out in the beautiful warm weather that’s been gracing Austin for the last several days, the chill of winter is expected to return over weekend – it’s my guess that Jack Frost is moseying over from the Snowpocolypse on the East coast. Although, we won’t get mountains of snow (actually, not even a freeze at all), this cold-weather wimp will be tempted to stay under the blankets and skip even her civilized late-morning run. That is, unless I know I have soup waiting for lunch!
After a long run in cold weather, nothing warms up my body and nourishes my soul more than a big bowl of soup. Who wants to think about making a complicated meal when road weary, starving and chilled to the bone? That’s why I like to have a big batch of homemade soup waiting in the slow cooker or ready to simmer on the stovetop the minute I walk in the door. Warmth and convenience aren’t the only reason why soup is great for runners — soup is also an easy, one-dish recovery meal that features the right mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healing vitamins and minerals. Eating soup after a workout refuels your tank with healthy food and the extra liquid helps restore hydration! I’m sharing six soup and stew recipes that are in constant rotation at my house during the cold-weather running seasons — each is easy to make and tastes just as good (if not better) as leftovers.
- Wilted Greens, Beans & Beef Meatball Stew
- Black Bean & Pumpkin Soup
- Chipotle Squash & Chickpea Soup
- Southwestern Sweet Potato Soup
- Hatch Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Lightened Yet Still “Loaded” Baked Potato Soup
Now that one of my favorite races (3M Half Marathon) has come and gone for the year, I can focus on my upcoming events. Of course, there is the Capitol 10k later this spring (I’m going to try to peak for this one) and the Zooma Women’s Race Series in Austin on March 28th – I’m a Zooma Ambassador again for the 4th year and will be running the half marathon – they also offer a 10k and 5k. This is a fun and supportive race for women of all abilities (and men, you’re invited too) – afterward there is just an awesome party with lots of Texas Hill Country hospitality, including music, wine and massages. Come out and join me – use the discount code JENNIFER15 at registration and get 10% off the fee for any race distance.
Oh, and did I tell you that I’m running the Spartan Race in a few months when it comes to Austin. It’s a good thing that the Spartan is in May and it won’t be cold — no soup required afterward, but maybe a cold beer! I better start practicing my obstacles ASAP! Check out the workout —>
Spartan has a ton of stuff going on right now including a newly launched podcast that shares epic stories of success – ‘Spartan Up!’ If you are totally into obstacle racing, you can get hooked up with a Spartan Season Pass that offers unlimited racing, ability to sign up in any heat including elite, special travel discounts and more.
never done an obstacle race before but really want to try one!
never done obstacle course but I would imagine going uphill is the hardest.
Ill see you at the CAP 10k!!!
YESSSSSSSSSSS!
I’ve run a Warrior Dash and 2 Tough Mudders before. The hardest obstacle had to be Just the Tip at TM. Would love to run the Spartan Race Ohio Beast in 2015! The first leg in my quest to complete the Trifecta!! Thanks for the contest! Arroo!
I’ve done a couple of Spartans. The hardest obstacle was the bucket carry at the Wintergreen Super. Brutal.
I did 3 Spartan Races last year and earned a Trifecta. I have never completed the rope climb or spear throw.
I’ve done the Warrior Dash. Climbing the wall was really hard for me. I was on the edge and couldn’t find good foot holds. A girl behind me just put her hand on my tush and gave me a push over! I grabbed her hand and helped her over in return. Obstacles races make you drop formality in a hurry. Love that!
I ran the Spartan last year and it was a real challenge. I think the hardest obstacle was the rope climb. It seems easy to just shimmy up there, but it’s difficult and I couldn’t even get halfway.
By the way, congrats on winning the Zooma Half Marathon. That’s amazing and must take dedication to get there.
Thanks Seth!
I’ve never run an obstacle course!!!!
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The rope climb at the Spartan race is hardest obstacle. Not only demanding a lot of upper body strength the bottom part of the rope is wet which makes it so much harder.
I haven’t done a hardcore OCR like a Spartan Race. I did an all womens one a couple of years ago but that was like kids play compared to these. I guess the hardest obstacle was the cargo net climb because I am afraid of heights.
Never done an obstacle race, but dying to!
I love soup! There is nothing better than a warm cup of soup. Love that you customized it for runners. Have a great weekend!
Thanks Lisa, you have a great weekend too!
I did a mud run and climbing the wall was the hardest thing for me
Have not done a obstacle race yet but the rope looks hard
This would be my first time! I can’t wait!
Have not done one yet but look likes fun
I did a Spartan Race last year for the first time. It was a great challenge. My favorite race so far. I’d love to try one of their stadium series races.
Yes, I’ve run 1 Spartan Sprint. The hardest obstacle for me was the rope climb!
I have not ran a Spartan race. Thanks.
I have run multiple OCR’s and the Tarzan swing in Vermont is the most difficult obstacle to challenge me.