Getting Running Again

It took me 3-4 weeks after Boston to want to run again. My legs were tired as was my brain. I had planned to get on my bike but so far that hasn't happened. For motivation, I signed up for the full Sunstroke Stampede Summer Series - only 5k - but essentially a fun tempo type run. There is no way I can run full out 5k pace on the trails at Town Lake or Brushy Creek. The competition is slim - there are a few fast running women to keep me honest but the best part has been meeting new people and getting to know others better. The first 2 weeks I ran a very short warm up and struggled through the race. In between I would do one or two 3 mile runs at 5pm. After I was reduced to a walk twice because it was too hot, I knew something had to change. At the 3rd race, I ran in to Scott who suggested running twice a day (early AM and late evening) on the days I had time. It made sense so I gave it a try. First week of that I ran 23 miles, second 26 miles. Not much but much better. On my first 10 miler since Boston, I had to walk the last mile because I needed a drink and figured I'd pass out if I didn't walk. Note to self...carry water. My goal is 30 miles this week. Long term 40+ by September.

The 5k races are getting better - I am getting faster with each one. Doesn't feel like it though - I feel like I am running very slowly and it is hurting too much! I learned that eating lunch at noon and then nothing other than 3 clif bloks before the race made me feel much better while I was running.

So my general schedule is Tuesdays - core class or cross fit - in the afternoon at Rogue and then 6-10 mile run after dark. Wednesday - 3mile easy run in AM, 5k race plus 2 mile wu and 2+ mile cd in PM. Thurs. - 6+mile recovery run with Leslie Barcley and Diane Damer at 5:30 AM (I am NOT a morning person), 6 mile run in PM. Fri or Sat - AM 10+ mile long run.

I am giving myself plenty of latitude for days off if I need extras. I'm not worrying about how fast or slow I'm running...I'm just glad to be out there. I listened to The Four Minute Mile on some of these runs. Helped the time to pass.

In between all this, I try to ride my horse Riley at least 3-4 times a week plus 4 evenings a week I am responsible for doing the night time feed etc at the barn. Unfortunately I also have to go to work.

I started this blog because I was motivated by Scott's and maybe mine will motivate someone else.