FULL WEEK IN

This week, I have logged more miles than I have ever logged in a week’s time before.  Tuesday I ran 8 miles, Wednesday I ran 4.5 miles, Thursday I ran 4 miles, and this morning I ran 15 miles.  Much to my surprise, I am not as sore today after running 15 miles, as I was on Tuesday after running 8.  I have began using KT Tape, as I experience an occasional flare up of Arch pain in my left foot, however I did not use it today during or after my run.  Could my body be adjusting to excess mileage this quickly?

I have also being taking a fish oil supplement and drinking an occasional glass of Cherry Juice to help decrease inflammation.  My brother-in-law had suggested this, and it’s still a bit early to say if it’s helping or not.  But it’s clearly not hurting after feeling rather fresh when running 15 miles.  Tomorrow my training plan calls for a Cross-training session (I plan to swim), and then Monday is a rest day!  If you have not read any of my earlier posts, I am following the Hal Higdon Novice 1 Marathon Training Guide!

One thing I have noticed when running longer distances, is how often my mind tends to wander while I run.  I am sure anyone who reads this and runs can relate.  For the first 3-4 miles, I tend to focus mainly on my pace, and feeling in my legs to make sure everything is working properly!  However once I get into a rhythm, my mind shifts into what I call, “Imagination in High Gear.”  I think about anything from my work, family life, past and upcoming races, and sometimes things as silly as what it would be like to be a bird, I wander who’s in that helicopter, Will I ever get to experience space travel in my lifetime, and other silly meaningless things!  Once I hit about mile 10, or 75% through my run, I begin to shift my imagination towards how good it will feel to finally cross the finish line in Dover at the Monster Mash Marathon, and this always motivates me to being running at a slightly faster pace.  I think this is most important to remember when training.  If you consistently remind yourself of just how good it will feel when you finally get there, you tend to forget about your running pains, being tired, or discouraged, and become instantly motivated.

Registered for my first MARATHON

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Yiiiikes!  Today I registered for the Monster Mash Marathon in Dover on October 19th of 2013.  My Brother-In-Law, Matt will also be racing, who is a TON faster than I am.  His goal is to qualify for Boston this race – I think he will not only qualify, but be a legitimate threat to win our age group at Dover!  My goal for this race is to FINISH!  I would love to hold a 9:30 pace.  I will be hitting the pavement hard over the next 8 weeks to prepare!  I will keep you updated on my training and progress leading up to the event!

My first post!

So, I have absolutely no idea where to begin!  I decided to start this blog on a whim, in hopes to be used as a personal motivator to help me reach my goals.  This past weekend I traveled to Gilford, NH to watch my sister compete in her first ever Half Ironman, the Timerman 70.3.  Not only was I left teary eyed and tingle faced with joy for my little sister from start to finish, but I was reminded again why I decided to get into to competition racing in the first place.  I would highly recommend to anyone who ever questions themselves during training, or if having trouble sticking to your training regime, to attend the next local event as a spectator, and pay close attention to the smiles and screams of joy as the participants cross the finish line.  It was unbelievable to witness such true joy and happiness for one’s personal achievement, and served as an excellent reminder of why I started in the first place.  I know that I will never become a “Professional” triathlete, and quite frankly a place medal doesn’t mean much to me either, however I do set personal goals for each event, even if just to finish, and will remember and use that experience as motivation and fuel to accomplish them!

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(Photo Above:  My sister, Amanda Logan, during the run leg of the Timberman 70.3 – AWESOME!!)