Don't know about you, but I'm usually on a bit of a high after I run a half marathon. Even if I don't get a PB I always feel like my running has hit a new level. I mean, I just ran 13.1 miles much faster than I normally do during training. I have it in me! So post-race I take advantage of that feeling by keeping up the intensity of my training program with a renewed vow to work even harder.
I finally got back to the UK last week, ready to really start my 2012. But while I've been running, I've been lacking motivation and that usual spark. The spark I had while chasing down that 1000 mile mark at the end of the year. And I couldn't help scolding myself and saying, "You are being lazy! You can't rest! You have another race in 4 weeks AND YOU MUST RUN A SUB-2!"
Yesterday it just seemed so cold and I just did not want to run. But with the encouragement of the Twitter Running Crew I got out there and did my 8 mile fartlek. When I got back I was feeling much more positive and I started thinking....you know what? I can do it. I can run. And I NEED TO CUT MYSELF SOME SLACK!
I took a step back and realized that since Christmas Day I have run 107 miles and raced a half marathon in California....on top of traveling 17,716 miles!
That's not too shabby for the holiday season, is it?
So I'm telling myself that it's okay if I'm feeling a little tired and unmotivated. This jet lag is nearly over. I'm going to hang in there, get my miles in...and be ready to really to rumble next week!
I have 4 and a half weeks until the Brighton Half...and I know I'll be ready.
Congrats on all the awesome things you've accomplished!
ReplyDeleteAh. Finding just the right amount of scolding or coddling for us runners is sometimes the toughest balance. I'm either beating myself up for not running enough or not taking enough time to just have a moment to sit.
Here's to a great 2012!
Thanks very much!
DeleteTotally agree....that fine line is a tough one to find sometimes. I hope in the end everything works out whether I get the balance right or not! :)
Here's to both of us!
I'm sure it won't hurt to take a little rest after all you've achieved over the last 4 weeks so try not to be so hard on yourself. After all, you were putting in 40 mile weeks which is what most people do training for a marathon. The thing is to make them count and not just do a run for the sake of getting it in. In other words, have a reason for each and every run whether it be recovery, speed, endurance or plain simple enjoyment but then you know that anyway. Take care, John :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, John! You are always the voice of reason! I think that's a great motto...make every run count.
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