The training program that I have been using has worked so well for me. The workouts, at times, seemed too easy, yet I was getting stronger. It was perfect. Then an injury set me back a couple of weeks and the training had to be adjusted. But, as I mentioned in my last post, I was able to manage the training vey well. The adjusted program, though, had only three scheduled run days a week with some weeks with 3 days off in row in preparation for the longer runs.
Those scheduled days off left me feeling a little uneasy about the training. I just felt like I shouldn’t have three days off in a row with only 3 or 4 mile training runs scheduled before the long run. So, I contacted the coaches and after reviewing my training, they did adjust my program once again. By the time I had realized they had responded, I had already taken two days off. Being that I was scheduled to work the following two days, I would not be able to run for another couple of days. Having so many days off in a row was a little concerning.
But, I got through those work days and ran a 5 mile run that went awesome! Sub 9 minute miles. And they felt so easy. I felt so much better and stronger. I thought I had lost quite a bit of fitness during the 2 weeks I took off for my calf injury. So, being able to run a little faster and so easily gave me a little more confidence.
It was a beautiful day out, but it is getting quite chilly!
I planned to run my “long run” of 13 miles on Friday this week because I have to work next week-end and I will need to move my 20 mile run to Friday also. I just didn’t want the two runs too close together, and I want to make sure that I am well recovered prior to that 20 miles.
In preparation for the 13 miles, I decided to have a calorie and carbo rich pasta dinner. Instead of spaghetti, I made a recipe from a Nancy Clark book that I purchased years ago: Hamburger Noodle Feast! I was going to leave off the cheese, but then decided not too….Yum!
Surprisingly, when I got up the next day I just did not feel very energetic. I was sooo tired, but I thought I should get the run done anyway. I can’t say that the run was hard, but my legs felt so achy all over. I had this same achy feeling during my 17.7 mile run as well. And again, it made for a little bit of a miserable run. I am going to really focus on diet and hydration over the next week to see if this will make a difference in my long runs. It is a little bit of a puzzle to me because prior to the injury, I was not feeling this way at all. I was actually feeling pretty strong on the long runs and looked forward to them.
It was another awesome day out!
But as I mentioned, a bit chilly. It isn’t going to get any warmer here in Alaska prior to the marathon, but I am hoping that it does cool off in New York.
Today I ran my final run of the week which was an easy 4 miler. I started out a little fast because I was cold and wanted to warm up! Once I got going, I continued at an 8:40 pace, and I felt great the whole way. Nothing hurt during the run! It’s confusing. I haven’t been able to pinpoint exactly why my other runs have been so miserable. Working on a theory 🙂 .
Starting week 17 with a track work-out tomorrow and then gearing up for the big 20 miler later in the week. I am pretty excited about it. I just hope that it goes a lot better than the other long runs. Keeping my fingers crossed. 🙂
Last of my Dahlias
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