The weeks are FLYING by for my half marathon training! In LESS than a month, I’ll be running the Smuttynose Half Marathon! Training has been quite humbling and has taught me that sometimes I need to take a step back in order to ultimately move forward. This week I made an adjustment to my long run because I decided that I want to increase my max long run from 10 to 12 miles. I have heard from several sources that the last 3 miles of a half are the hardest, and bring the most challenges both physically and mentally. I decided this week that I want to be prepared- physically and mentally- for everything that will come my way, so I made the decision to extend the cap on my long run mileage.
I did take many things into consideration before making this decision; risk of injury, ability to recover from longer and more demanding runs, time constraint, overall increased fatigue, etc. I decided that keeping up with my stretching, massage, and recovery days should keep my chronic ankle tendonitis from flaring up, even with an increase in mileage. I also made the promise to myself to BACK OFF if my ankle/hamstring/hip, etc starts to bother me. The added value of a few miles is NOTHING when compared to the value of my body being in top shape to run the race.
My long run this past Sunday was a 9 miler and it was quite a challenge considering the heat, humidity, and poor air quality. BUT, with a little dialogue back and forth with myself and the help of a Clif Shot Energy Gel, I made it in 1 hour and 18 minutes!
Can’t believe its less than a month to go!!!! I’m getting EXCITED and trying to recruit as many people as possible to come cheer me on!!! And if you’re in the area on Oct 2nd, I’d love to have YOUR support!
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