I've never thought I would ever run into this problem - struggling not to run too fast.
I have been running way faster than my running schedule (FIRST training plan for a 3:45 - initially, and now for a 3:40) in all my long runs (but one), all my tempos and all my speedwork intervals. Dummy, I can say in retrospect. I did not realize that I am not supposed to run all out at all times.... Anyway, recently I have been having more aches and pains, and decided that this week I am going to make sure I don't go faster than goal paces, and will just push the intensity during my swims and bike sessions.
I had a short speed session, total of 6 miles, with 10 400m @ 6:36. I managed to stay between 6:18 and 6:26 for all of them, but it was HARD because I did not feel challenged. My legs, albeit heavy, wanted to go faster. Plus I went to the track as opposed to running on the bike path, just to be nice to my feet, and that only made me speedier!
On Wednesday I did my 8 miles tempo, pace was supposed to be 8:23. I decided I should not look at my Garmin, and good thing I ended up looking because after 1/2 mile I was running at a comfortable @ 7:15. Not good. I slowed down as much as I could and ended up with an average of 8:15.
*
I am super happy with my improvement, but concerned a bit about the aches and pains. You all seasoned marathoners/runners, have you has similar experienced prior to taper? I still have not decided what my pace should be for the last 20 miler on Saturday (on the course), training schedule calls for 8:38. I guess I'll play it by ear.
*
Today I got my number from BAA and I was hit with a surge of anxiety. I am actually running the marathon. It is happening. I am realizing that I need to start thinking like a marathoner, or a marathoner in making, and really believe that I am going to run it well in April. My plan is to start to read a lot about the marathon, visualize the course, and develop a mental plan for dealing with those tough 6 miles after the turn around at the Fire Station. This will hopefully keep my mind busy
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
5 comments:
Hi! First of all, thanks so much for all your helpful comments you left on my blog. I'm biting my tongue so as not to create any more havoc, since that was clearly NOT my intention. I'll write another suitable post later.
As for your pretaper aches and pains...I think we all have them. It is the combination of all the peak mileage and the speed workouts culminating into muscles are not used to working so hard. That, and also because the rest period between workouts is usually shorter during the training peak phase, there's less time for muscle regeneration and the like, so there's lingering soreness and muscle tightness. I have my share of aches and pains too (remember my pulled hammy from a week ago...still there, just not as bad) That's why I'm so looking forward to the taper. Just one more long run to get through.
I think when you are finding it hard to control your speed for workouts, it's generally a good thing. And by tempering your speed, you'll condition yourself to holding back in the earlier portions of the course instead of just flying down and bonking later on. It's wierd trying to hold yourself back during speed workouts, but I think it's for the best.
You're doing super in your training so I have no doubt you're going to do awesome in the race. Plus, you have the advantage of running the course a few times. Good job, and have fun on your last long run!
Ana
I would say everything you are feeling right now, the aches and pains, the uncertainty about pacing, and anxiety about race day is normal for a first-time marathoner. You have already put in all the necessary hard training. Just relax and enjoy the taper. The most important thing to remember is that there is nothing you can do over the next 3 weeks to help you run a faster race but there are MANY things you can do hurt your performance. Don’t overdo it!!! Save it for the race.
your aches and pains are completely normal... i am having a few right now myself. thats what taper is for! :)
it is hard to hold back on the pace sometimes, but its a good thing and your body will appreciate it.
good luck on your last 20 miler!!! just listen to your body and take it from there... almost taper time!
I agree with everyone on the aches and pains . . . totally normal. And as far as pacing goes, it definitely sounds like your training has paid off!! I think you have a GREAT race ahead of you!
I echo what everyone else has already said. This is all completely normal, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with.
When I feel the pre-race anxiety start to take hold, I try to remember that it's about having fun and being proud of your accomplishment first, everything else (finishing time included) comes after.
Relax! You're going to do great!!
Post a Comment