Okay, so while we’re on Goofy Challenge questions, let’s tackle a few more that some people have come here asking.
1) What’s the Disney bacon medal?
It’s from a Facebook group someone started. I didn’t do it. (I didn’t know about it before the marathon.) But, my understanding is you eat 3 strips of bacon in the last mile or 2 of the marathon (and from everything I’ve heard they’re thinking about – or possibly already have – added in some half marathons). Then, you get a super cute little pig medal.
It’s not an official Disney thing – though Disney seems to be totally cool (and even helpful) with it. And it’s limited to a certain number of runners, so keep your eyes out for the sign-ups if you’re interested. There you have it. I don’t know a lot about it, so just go to their Facebook group and they’ll know everything.
2) How long should you rest after the Goofy Challenge?
This is a great question! I don’t really know the answer. I think you should listen to your body. It is important to do some walking. During the week after the Goofy Challenge, I tried to walk 3 miles a day – not quick walking, just kind of mall walking, making sure I was at least giving my muscles some movement.
I did a half marathon the week after the Goofy Challenge. While it wasn’t disastrous, it was a bit foolish. I hurt after that half marathon. For the next week, I barely got about bed. Forget those 3 miles walks. I was tired! (I’m sure that not walking didn’t help anything.)
I’m not the only one who did the half the following weekend. The person at the heavy medal booth at Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona said that every person he’d seen with a Goofy shirt on really looked like they were hurting. I think we all overexerted ourselves a bit. So, it is possible? Yes. Is it smart? Probably not.
But, I don’t know you. If you’re some kind of ultra-runner – well, if you’re an ultra-marathoner, you’re not googling my blog for advice on what to do after Goofy. (But I was going to tell you to do whatever you want. You’re an ultra-marathoner.)
In conclusion – the answer to the question is I don’t know. Listen to your body, take it slowly, but definitely get back in it! Almost just as bad as running too quickly following a race is putting it off forever and then starting what feels like completely from scratch. So, go listen to other people – coaches and stuff – who know more. And more importantly, listen to your body.
3) Am I allowed to walk the 5ks at Disney?
Yep.
I believe they technically have the same 16 minute/mile pace requirement as the other Disney races, but I have never seen or heard about anyone being swept from a Disney 5k. They’re mainly for families to spend time together and get their pictures and stuff. So, I think you’re good.
All right, well between that and yesterday’s question (of if Goofy could be your first marathon), we have covered all the questions I often get! If you have any more, let me know anytime!