Monday, June 20, 2011

How Marathon Training Has Changed Me!

Besides the blisters and one black toenail, marathon training has had other impacts, some long lasting, on my life as a runner. So this will be my way of updating you on how things are going.  I am going to bring it to you bullet style for your convenience (and my laziness.)
  • I now say things like "oh it's only 10 miles today."
  • I've begun to feel more like a runner due to a couple of firsts I've experienced, including; my first 4:30 am run- I even got up at the butt crack of early while at State Track to run around Spokane before watching highschoolers run faster than me- my first mid run pit stop (luckily I was running by some tall grass), and lots of mileage firsts.
  • My size has changed. I find myself to be much hungrier the day after a hard workout, but luckily even with the fluctuation, I am still smaller than when I started training.
  • My foam roller and Father's Day stick are indispensable tools.
  • I also do dorky things like check my heart rate at random times to prove how much better in shape I am.
  • More than ever I respect those that train like this all the time. I really miss quick 30-60 min runs.
  • Pacing is tough. Knowing what pace you are supposed to run is one thing, actually running that pace is another. I am so used to running hard, that slowing down to maintain a specific pace has been a challenge. I think I have settled on an 8:40 pace.
Now I am just trying to get through this week. Unfortunately, I hurt my calf on my last long run and it is making my taper hard. I am afraid I might not be able to run at all this week. There is still no baby yet, I really wish she would come out, but Tressa is insisting I run no matter what! See some of you this weekend. Rock n Roll!

6 comments:

Zoƫ said...

Way to go Track Coach! Looking forward to seeing you and Tressa this weekend at RnR!

Tortuga_Runner said...

I would guess black toe nails are worse for you since you don't have pedicures to cover them up. Hope Tressa is feeling well and your calf heals quickly. In marathon land Rest & Recover is the name of the game even with the mildest of injuries.

Leah F said...

Marathon training is the best! Sort of.

As for your calf, I'd recommend resting it a couple days (the hay is in the barn after all). If it's still bothering you come race day, run in compression socks. That and race day adrenaline will get you through! Good luck!!

Unknown said...

No baby yet huh? Tell Tressa we're thinking about her.

I love marathon training. Only once you go through that can a short run be 10 miles and eating everything in site be totally acceptable! ;)

Mel -Tall Mom on the Run said...

No baby.. UGH!! Will see you all tomorrow..

Mel -Tall Mom on the Run said...

Marathon training will forever change you.. Take care of that calf.