THE RAGNAR EXPERIENCE

Over six months ago I added my name to a list indicating interest in a Ragnar Relay for Orange Theory Fitness Maple Grove.  At the time I new very little except that it was something of an adventure race and involved running. I knew no one on the list. So when the time came to commit, I stuck with my decision and paid my deposit.

It is only days post Ragnar and I think some of you may enjoy an insiders view of the experience, minus the smell of the van at race end.  IT WAS AWESOME! Why would one say this? After all, I was committed to 48 hours in a van with 5 strangers, to tag team 200ish miles with another van of six in 90+ degree weather through the hilly Mississippi River Valley from Winona to St. Paul.

So here are my thoughts in no particular order as to what I found in the Ragnar experience.

1. It pushed me out of my comfort zone. We've all heard "life begins" at the other side of it. Well after this experience I would have to say I agree. I just needed the reminder. 
2. Everyone has a story to tell and needs someone to hear it. For knowing very little about these people I will say I made 5 new friends for life that I would call in a crisis situation. Van Support Rocks! We shared sweat (no blood or tears) and a whole lot of laughs.  Each individual inspired me in some way and made this an experience of a lifetime. 
3. We all enjoy a good 'Kill' once in a while.  While this term may seem extreme, competitive or not, it is empowering to pass someone and provide a note of encouragement as you do. :-)
4. We can do anything we set our mind to even on limited sleep. We may question our sanity at some points but our strong bodies will respond when we put things back in perspective.
5. The Rewards far exceed the Risks. It's kind of like motherhood. You will forget the pain of the experience for the bragging rights, the swag, the photos and the team beer. Remember, I said kind of.
6. Fuel is necessary. All kinds, especially fluids. One of my teammates coined the term "Ragnafarians."  In high temps and increased humidity, supplements are key.  We all had our own. I of course brought extra and am proud to say no one dehydrated on my watch.
7. People are extremely creative! Costumes, team names, decorated vans, vehicle tags and signatures, all make for a weekend of entertainment that is fun and funny without the influence of alcohol. Seriously!!  I'm giving credit to the endorphins.
8. You never know who you will run into on a course like this.  I managed to see 3 girls I went to school with (I graduated from a high school of just over 400). I know there were several other people running I knew, but I did not see them. Interesting to say the least. 
9. Did I mention that even with an insane number of hills and extreme heat that the landscape is beautiful and night running is as cool as people proclaim?!
10. Last but not least, it takes time to recover.  I'm lucky to have flexibility in my schedule. I know others do not get to say the same. Sorry Tim, if we could have, we would have sent van support to help you with that load of gravel.  If they are like me they are still riding the wave of excitement when they see pictures and then find themselves ravenous for food and ready for the couch. 

Peace, Love and Ragnar On! Thank you for taking the time to read about this experience.  If you find yourself with the opportunity and even enjoy running a little bit, I would highly recommend a Ragnar Relay. If you really want to make it an extreme adventure, I see they are taking it to Hawaii! ALOHA!

Liz

Liz Blom, RD

Nutrition & Wellness Coach

Independent AdvoCare Distributor | www.healthygirlliz.com

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