I did a little over 4.5 miles today, and had a really rough go of it. For some reason my "comfortable" pace felt SO slow to me, like I was shuffling along rather than really running. So I'd get annoyed with that pace and try to push myself "just a little" faster, and end up feeling horrible and getting this weird feeling like someone was standing on top of my stomach. So frustrating! I made it over halfway through with alternating between these two extremes before I finally started walking little bits here and there. I couldn't make up my mind whether I was trying to primarily complete the distance (and not worry about the time), or trying to hit a certain pace (but maybe not get the entire distance in). I ended up arguing with myself for most of the run, throwing in some walking, and finally settling on finishing the distance I set out to complete. From start to finish, I complete 4.58 miles in ~70 minutes. That time includes stops at at least 6 crosswalks - so I don't know how much difference that really makes. My pace was close to 16min/mile, which was discouraging. The Disney course requires that you maintain a 16m/m pace in order to be allowed to finish the race. Today's run has me wrestling with doubts and frustration. I'm hoping that's a normal part of being in your taper before your first half marathon.
I'd love to hear any advice from experienced runners about how I can make sure I'm in top shape for my race. Is there anything I should avoid? I know I should steer away from caffeinated beverages and try to focus on healthy, whole foods. I read that you're not supposed to strength train during your taper - is that true? I'm absolutely ITCHING to get back to my weights routine, and feeling like a major couch potato with only 3 workouts a week.
Someone tell me everything is going to work out.
I will console myself with visions of the tutu I shall wear while running. Even if I end up shuffling through the whole race, at least I'll be shuffling in a tutu.
The only question that remains is, do I go for a red one to match my shirt? Or do I go cotton-candy style like this beauty? Choices, choices.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
It will be okay. You just had a bad run, we all have them. I had a bad one this week too. Don't worry when we get to that race you will be ready to go and you will do great! And I can't wait to see the Tutu!
ReplyDelete