Saturday, July 31, 2010

Slow Ride, Take it Easy...

My actual training plan doesn't begin until August 17th, but I'm trying to maintain somewhat of a base mileage now. You know, giving it the old college try. A typical week looks something like this:

Monday: Yoga, Upper body in the gym
Tuesday: 3mile easy run, legs in the gym
Wednesday: Yoga, Bike or Swim
Thursday: Yoga, Legs in the gym, 25min arc trainer
Friday: 3mile hill run
Saturday: OFF
Sunday: "Long" run of 4 or 5 miles right now

Honorable Mention: Each run is followed by at least 15min of stretching.

Lessons thus far:

*Less is sometimes more. Life will happen and that's okay. If you miss a run, have to reschedule, etc. do not panic. Don't over do your activity and remember the value in rest days.
*Running one-way is better for me. I've done both, and okay, most of my runs were out and back. But, I've learned that my energy level stays up if I get on a one-way train.
*The lake is essential. Thus far, that big, cooling plunge into the lake has really been helping to alleviate cramping, tight muscles, etc. and I am far less sore the other day. Make it a point to continue this!!

Did I mention in my last post that I'm looking at scoring a couple of pairs of new sneaks? I'm a high-arched, neutral-to-under pronator. So, (I still have to go try them on) but I'm thinking I'm going to get the Muzino Wave Rider 13 for days when I'm moving quicker, feeling strong. I'd like to alternate those with the Asics Gel-Nimbus 12 for a super soft, plush ride. I'm sure that they will make all the difference.. wink wink.

Mentally, I'm doing good with the distances thus far. I think "Hey, I just ran five miles! That's just a bit under half way!" But, at the same time, I try to take the advice of other runners and seriously respect the distance. 13.1miles is no joke, especially for a novice runner such as myself. I have a couple of helpful 'mantras' that get me through.

"Let the mind dictate the body."
"I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."
"One step at a time."
"It's just you and the pavement, baby."


Tomorrow is supposed to be a rainy day. Wish me luck on my five mile run!

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