I have done a fair amount of racing. I'm certainly not as hard-core as my marathon and ironman friends, but I've done twelve triathlons, a few 10k races and more 5k's than I could possibly count. Through the years of racing, I have come to realize a couple things about myself. First, I need a goal. I need something to train for, or I get bored and a little lost at the gym. With a goal, comes a training plan. I need a plan. I need someone else to outline what I should be doing and when I should be doin it so that I can just get out there and train. For my half marathon next month, I have been using a training plan from Runner's World that has me running three very focused runs per week. And I have loved my training.
I used to hate running. This summer I was training for a tri in September, and I realized that for the first time ever, I was truly enjoying my hour long runs. I thought it might be time to try something new. A few friends had signed up for a half marathon here in town in December, and within days of completing the tri I signed up (have I mentioned that I need a goal?). My training plan has me running 20-25 miles per week in three runs. It has been really difficult at times and I have had to really push myself, but I am really enjoying it. I have learned all about the importance of body glide and fueling up along the way during long runs. I have drained the blood and pus from a black tonail (which I gladly did not lose! One of my runner friends told me to consider it a 'rite of passage' into the big leagues for running.). I have worn down my running shoes to the point where the rubber was gone and I was running on the cushion (lesson learned about breaking in new shoes before the old ones are toast...). I have been to the PT about some minor knee pain that I did not want to turn into major knee pain while training.
And I have been running longer and faster than I ever have in my life.
My left hip (left ankle, left knee, left hip... I'm sensing a theme) started complaining during my long run on Tuesday and was far more vocal during my speedwork on Thursday, so I skipped my long run this weekend. Time for another visit to the PT so I can be in tip-top shape for the race. Less than two weeks to go. I am nervous about my latest injury, but so very excited to run!!
the text that changed my life
3 years ago
2 comments:
Your dedication to running is admirable. It is your "I will not be defeated" attitude that carries you over the miles, I am sure.
I love to run, also, but find that my body won't do more than 5 miles or running more than 3 times per week without protesting. :(
Good luck with your training and I hope the knee, hip and toe heal quickly.
I am exactly the same way. I have already set up my 2010 race schedule. I can't sit still and I hate coming up with my own training plans. Thank goodness for my coach. So happy to see you blossoming in the running arena. It's a tough discipline for people to fall in love with - especially swimmers. You will kick arse at the half.
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