Well, I have the “worse running shape” part down. Now I just need to make sure I follow through with the rest of my "master plan".
In order to do that I think I need to adjust my focus. I’ve been trying to tell myself that I can jump right back in with 70-80 mile weeks, throw in a couple of MP workouts, and run a PR at Boston.
It’s like I want the best of both worlds – time away from running and PRs.
I’m realizing that’s probably not going to happen. Instead of worrying about PRing at Boston, I just need to get back into the routine of running every day, building mileage, and rediscovering my love of the sport. If I do that, the times will take care of themselves. I may even surprise myself at Boston.
Somewhere along the line my 10 hour workout weeks dropped to 6-8 hours. Given that I haven’t really added any intensity, I need to build back up to working out 90 minutes a day.
Saturday I ran a fairly strong 11 miler. That gave me 41 miles for the week, plus another 15 on skis. Sunday I ran 16 miles in my least favorite conditions, 35-40 degrees and rain. For some reason those two runs left my legs incredible beat up. Monday I tried to ski, but the rain made the trails way too icy for my skill level. Today my legs were still sore as I slogged my way through 5 miles.
Looks like some of the Team USA Minnesota runners have been updating their journals lately. Check out recent entries by Brad, Katie, Chris, and Carrie.
Quote of the day;
“I think we surprised a few people as to how fast some of us old farts can run.” – Dave Tappe
2 comments:
"Instead of worrying about PRing at Boston, I just need to get back into the routine of running every day, building mileage, and rediscovering my love of the sport." - I'm a bit baffled by this comment, since I can't see how you ever lost your love of the sport. You write about running every single day. I sense lots of anxiety over a PR in Boston out of you, but I am struggling to understand why you put so much pressure on yourself. You have forayed into x-country skiing this winter and had a blast (ref: your recent race post). You have proven yourself TO yourself so many times. Just slip back into the mileage you are used to and go hit Boston w/ your usual intensity. Besides, is Boston the ideal PR venue? Just my 2 cents...
Ryan, it seems like I write about skiing more than running lately.
And I never understand why people don't think Boston is a PR course - maybe thoughts of Heartbreak Hill scare everyone.
In 2001 I ran Gma's in 3:03 (PR), TCM in 3:01 (PR) and then ran the 2002 Boston in 3:03 - not a PR, but within spitting distance. Had I run smarter, I probably would have PRd.
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