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."
