Long Runs and What I've Learned

This marathon training has been tough. I knew it would be challenging. I knew I would be training in the heat of summer (not a big fan of running in temps over 75 degrees especially with humidity).

I have realized I am stronger than I thought. Some days (and some miles) I wanted to throw in the towel and go home. At times I walked more than I ran -- for example on my 16-mile training run this past Saturday, I started bonking by mile 10. I walked more of the last 6 miles than I ran. I felt terrible. My feet hurt, my legs hurt, I was very warm and miserable. After the fact, I realized I needed more electrolyte drink.

So, yesterday I did my 17-mile training run (I wanted to run on the coolest morning of the week). It was about 57 degrees when I started. I took two bottles of Nuun (my fuel belt holds 2 bottles). I carried three gels. I had eaten some toast and drank a little coffee beforehand. I planned my route to stop at home two times to refill the bottles and use the bathroom if needed. I also circled the park where there were water fountains and restrooms. It took 3 hours and 32 minutes of moving forward (I use the run/walk method), but I did it -- last week's 16 miles took me 3 hours and 39 minutes, so I was pleased. Sure I hurt, sure I was tired, and sure I didn't want to think about having to run 9.2 more miles on marathon day.

I know I still need to work on pre-run and during run nutrition. I need to do more stretching and core work. I need to do some runs with compression sleeves and/or socks to see how that feels. But I am strong! I can overcome the mental aspect of this "hobby."

Earned the Giant Penny!

On April 4, I completed the Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon in Springfield, IL. My husband, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, and good friend participated with me. This was the second year I have done this event. In 2014, the medal looked like a $5 bill (50th anniversary of the race). But this year, the medal was the usual giant penny. It's well run with good support, and the weather is cool but comfortable.

As for location, it's great. We stayed at the downtown Hilton, where the expo is located, and they have a Starbucks (gotta have my pre-race mocha)! Dinner was at Obed & Isaac's -- yummy burgers and other dishes. Our post-race lunch was a little splurge at Cooper's Hawk Restaurant & Winery.

To prepare for this race, I followed the same half marathon training plan I have used before (from Women's Running). The big difference is I really followed it -- about 95% of the time (that's good for me). In addition, I have been working hard to improve my nutrition and try to lose a few pounds.

The result: on Race Day I was 8 pounds lighter than I was in January. The best part: I PR'd!!! My official time was 2:29:46, even though at mile 7.5 I tripped over my own stupid feet and fell. I spent about 4 minutes being cleaned up and bandaged.

What also helped, I believe, was a couple weeks into the training plan, I started doing most of my runs as run/walk. Allowing myself to walk periodically gave my body and mind the needed break to get my heart rate down, my legs a little rest and my breathing under control. I could run faster during my short runs, the recover with a quick walk. I was able to increase my overall pace and show myself I could run 10:30 to 11:30 miles (not all were that fast, but I could do it). Even my husband decided to give it a try and he has had a good training cycle and has been happy with his race times.

I am now between training plans, so I am focusing on my nutrition, hoping to lose a few more pounds as well as keeping up the running. I will be going back to the gym this week to start strength training again.

Call Me Crazy -- Am I Really Going to Do a Marathon??!!

In April 2012, I decided to sign up for a 5K race in which I planned to run/walk. Before that I had not been what anyone would call a runner. I walked. I worked on the elliptical machine. I occasionally did weights. But I did not run.

I saw 50 looming in my near future and wanted to become more fit and to challenge myself. After watching my husband get in Ironman shape, run marathons and half marathons and complete many triathlons, I wanted to be more than a spectator. With his support and guidance, I did the 5K at the Mini Marathon in Indy in May and signed up for the Rock 'N' Roll Half Marathon in St. Louis to be held October 2012.

Today I have completed 6 half marathons, a handful of 5Ks, a 6K, a 15K plus a couple other shorter runs. I will do my 7th half in April in Springfield, IL. And last weekend, with a little arm-twisting from my husband, I signed up for a full marathon. Me! The person who a few years ago asked why people PAY to run, is going to run 26.2 miles!

The journey will be challenging, will required commitment, will be painful at times, and will make me a stronger person. Advice? Tips? Training buddies? I need all that!

I will post my journey to the marathon...and see what happens.