Marathon: My personal journey

This week my training plan was designed to test my limits. It sure did! I learned so much this week. Perhaps the most valuable lesson came with the interval training. I was afraid of it and performed well. It gave me so much confidence for the rest of the week.

My long run was a great test so far. I survived the run, but need some more work to get in marathon mode. Thank God for 10 more weeks!

My cross training efforts were solid and have really paid off. Here's to a nice rest day!


Image source:
http://nicktumminello.com/2014/03/supramaximal-interval-training-vs-high-intensity-interval-training/

What a week of training! I really put in the mileage this week and it felt great. On my long run, I ran 14 miles. It was a difficult long run, as I decided to space my water break out too far.

This upcoming week, I will focus more on my pace, fueling strategy and hydration. I will slowly start incorporating speed work in the mix too.


Image source:
https://www.pinterest.com/keener64/snoopy/

It's been a weird Spring for me running wise. I have encountered a few nagging issues with my feet, back and motivation/mental focus. I have been solidly working through each one.

To fix my feet, I changed shoes (experimenting has paid off) and strengthening exercises.
To fix my back, I have stretched, cross trained and hit the chiropractor.
To fix my motivation/mental focus, I signed up for a full marathon and have been really thinking about changing my training. It is working!

Here is what I am so excited to tell you about. Today, I had a run that was amazing. I just went out and didn't worry too much about my pace (initially). My first mile was 2 minutes faster than usual. The next four miles, I pushed myself to run more instead of walking through difficult spots.

I finished the run strong and experienced true joy. I feel like I have really turned the corner!

I am excited to share with you the other things I will be changing up for the rest of the year- stay tuned!

How do you get out of a running funk?



Image source:
http://www.pour-favor.com/turning-the-corner/

My confidence stems from:

• I have one more year of experience
• I have one more year filled with cross training
• I have one more year to eat better
• I am more determined
• You will help me
• My family and friends are my rock
• I like competing
• Goals will be realized 
• I run for JP!
• A charity needs me...could it be Diabetes in Action, Livestrong, American Cancer Society, or others....

 

1. Earlier and consistent speed work.

2. Refine my hydration plan for racing (tweaks).

3. Cross train!

4. Modify my pacing earlier in the year.

5. Mix up the routes.

6. Refine my racing weight.

I am excited beyond words. I will have fun. What goals do you have for running or fitness?

Image source:

http://7minutesinthemorning.com/getting-energized/

In addition to running, I have been keeping up with cross training. As the Fall wears on and the Winter settles in, I am going to remain focused. 

I can't wait to sign up for my next big race! 

This picture is from a trip I took in North Carolina, more on that later!

To all of you, it just flat out makes my day and motivates me beyond word. It got me thinking again. Compliments really matter. In our fast paced world, it is easy to forget to give them. 

Here is my challenge to you. Tomorrow, compliment two people if you can. Stop and deliberately give them the good stuff. Tell them they look handsome or pretty, have a nice smile or anything that is genuine. 

Watch as they receive the news. You will get a nice reward! By the way, I want to thank each of you reading my BLOG. It makes me smile to think you enjoy it. 

Next week I will feature a series that will focus on the power of one person. It will highlight how one person can truly make a difference. My list of people is going to delight you. If you have someone you want to recommend, please email me at jim.connely56@gmail.com and I will feature them. 

Have a nice night! 

Image Source:

http://www.mrwallpaper.com/view/smile-is-shortest-distance-1920x1200/