Getting ready for a spring marathon proves to be a struggle for Jess — but she’s not giving up.
It has been a tough week. I’ve been discouraged and worried. My leg hurts. It hurts all the time. Well, not all the time. It hurts to run and that sucks.
I have a running coach who provides me with a weekly workout plan. This week I did two days of cross training at the gym. Usually I do 60 minutes of cardio on the elliptical and bike, and then a 30 minute core workout and stretch. I also did four days of running. Each time I did a 10km run, alternating between running and walking.
It all sounds good when I write it down. But in reality I struggled through every workout and spent a large amount of time icing sore legs and feeling sorry for myself.
I said over and over on Twitter and DailyMile: “I just want to run.”
Really, for me running is all about chasing that elusive “good run” — the one that feels like you’re flying and you could go forever. It’s a truly amazing experience. I know it will come back to me. I’m just having trouble maintaining focus, strength and hope.
As far as the marathon goes, I’m still feeling doubtful. I think as soon as I get one long run under my belt I will feel more optimistic.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m doing it. It might be pretty ugly. But one way or another I will be at the start line on May 1st.
Photo Credit
Vital Joy
Recent Jess Howard Articles:
- Marathon Day
- Marathon Training Week 10 and 11
- Marathon Training Week Eight and Nine
- Marathon Training Week Seven
- Marathon Training Week Five and Six
A few weeks ago I got to watch the amazing athletes in the 2011 ITU Triathlon Pan America Cup race on Roatan. I was in awe of their commitment to excellence! As you should be proud of you’s!
Are you eating enough of the right stuff? I’m training for my first half-marathon right now and have been SHOCKED at how much better my legs feel and how much better my endurance is when I’m taking in at least 400g of carbs every day.
Deanna, I do try and eat well, but sometimes fail miserably. It’s having the time to fit everything in.