9/28/13 - 4.36 mi
Today I did what I
like to call a "free" run. Free from tracking my pace. Free from time
constraints. Free from gadgets, accessories, and running gear. Just me, my
shoes and the open road. I think it's really important to "free" run
often, especially if training for a race. It can be really easy to get caught
up in "Am I going to PR?" (PR - personal record aka PB - personal
best) and a lot of runners get burnt out when they are not progressing like
they want. "Free" running reminds you of the pure simplicity of
running. It doesn't matter if you win the race. It doesn't matter if you PR.
All that matters is that you run. I've said it before…running is one of the
most natural processes for your body. It's part of our human development. By 20
months of age, we learn to run. Why do we ever stop?! You should be running.
Remember that!
Today's
"free" run was really important for me. As I mentioned in one of my
first posts, this blog has a lot to do with holding myself accountable. As
such, I have a confession to make. I have not ran since my 21 mile run on 9/14!
I've walked a lot and exercised in other ways but not one single run in 2
weeks. I have been feeling overwhelmingly incomplete. I was starting to doubt
my abilities big time. I was even thinking about switching from running the
full marathon to the half marathon in November. Today I woke up prepared to
run. I knew I needed to revitalize my commitment to my training so I decided to
"free" run. As soon as I took my first step, I remembered that I LOVE
to run and my confidence reappeared. Yes, I took two weeks off from my training
but my endurance barrier has been set. I just ran 21 miles two weeks ago!! I
still have over a month left of training. I still have one more 20+ mile run
before marathon day. To think that I doubted myself is crazy!! Of course I can
do this. And that is what the power of the "free" run can do for you.
Next week's plan -
maintenance runs on Sunday, Monday & Wednesday and interval training (12 -
1 milers) on Saturday.
Excited to get back
into the groove. Happy running!
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