This:
Thank you Sparkly Soul for posting this today.
There’s been a slight change in my marathon programming for the spring. I’m still training. I’m still running a marathon. I’ve just bought myself three more weeks of training and the longest marathon training program ever by running Run for the Red in PA in May instead of traveling to Eugene in April.
My motivation wanes during long runs, but is ignited by my tempo runs and speed sessions. During those long runs I have to get my brain in the right space and not give over to giving up or suffering through them. Seven miles fly by on tempo Tuesdays while the same distance seems unbearable and impossible during my long runs.
I know that if I can get my brain in the right space around running long, I can continue to work hard and give these goals all I’ve got.
Great quote. Thanks for sharing it further–I needed to read that this morning. 🙂
Great quote. I need to share this with my ten week weight loss class participants. They are half way through the series this week!
Keep up the great work Jess 🙂
Jess – I recently tried a trick after a really gross 12 mile long run that left me feeling defeated and horrible. It was hard at first, but I ended up feeling great and positive the whole way through. I ran a 14 miler with 30 sec walk breaks after EVERY mile….yes – I know what you are thinking…walk break is a bad idea, but I promise you it worked out awesome. I was able to run a longer distance at a faster average pace by about 20 seconds/mile, and it broke up my run into small manageable goals. (and it gave me something to focus on other than – “just keep running, just keep running”) Since you have an extra 3 weeks to train, maybe give it a try one of these weekends. 🙂 Best of luck.
I really like this idea. I was never one to refuse walk breaks because even 10-15 sec and re-energize you!
The surprising thing was – my last 3 miles were at a much faster pace because my legs were still feeling fresh and usually I am feeling the exact opposite!
I’m a bit biased, but I am thrilled about this choice. You will be seeing more of me than you ever thought you wanted to this training cycle! xo
This would have been helpful for my hill intervals yesterday! Those three weeks will only help you further, only run when you are ready for it and not before!
I needed to hear this–thanks for posting. I completely understand getting your brain into the right space. My half-marathon training is…lacking. I saw that comments about taking walk breaks, too, which I used during my full marathon training last year. Maybe I’ll start doing that, and then the miracle will happen? I hope? I need a miracle! Ha ha. Anyhow, thank you for posting.
I’m doing the Run for the Red too in May! Happy training!!
Loved the quote. It’s interesting to me that the long runs are the mentally tougher ones for you–I am the opposite! Anyhow…there’s nothing wrong with throwing in some MP or tempo miles during a long run to help break things up. I do this regularly and it really does go by quickly that way.
For me, getting out to do the tempo runs is the most difficult mentally (er, as I think you know :)) but they are the easiest to get through since it usually does go fast once you start.
Keep pushing forward you can definitely meet you goals. I have recently stepped back but part of me is wishing I was still pushing forward.
Appropriate given my recent set back in injury rehab. Keep the faith! I know you (and I) will get there.
Yes!
ooh today I AM SO IN for the miracle.