Having just gotten back from vacation, I knew I had no time to waste in getting started with my marathon training. In fact, I learned I was already a week behind. As soon as I signed up for the marathon, I was intent on doing better than I did in 2009. My finish time then was 4:53:45 - not bad- but well above the goal I originally set (4:20). I'd say I blame a fair amount of it on the weather - it was a bit colder than I expected, and I don't think my body every really warmed up. But really, my training plan was equally at fault. I did all of the necessary long runs on schedule, but I didn't do as much of the mid week running and/or cross training that probably would have helped condition my body to hold up over 26.2 miles.
Here is a recap of how my first training week went:
Monday: To get back into the swing of things, Mike and I went to the gym and I ran 3 miles on the treadmill, then cooled down with 10 min on the bike.
Tuesday: I went to the gym solo and did the elliptical for about 30 min, then rode the stationary bike for about 30 min as well.
Tuesday night, I learned that with my participation in the Girls in the Game charity race team, that I receive a free membership in the Chicago Area Runner's Association (CARA) summer marathon training program. The entitles me to a whole bunch of goodies, but most importantly a structured training regimen, including mid week runs as well as the main, supported group runs on the weekend. I'm hoping this will take some of the logistical pressure off in terms of carrying enough water, etc.
Wednesday: A little full from dinner, I hopped on the elliptical for 30 minutes of cardio then some ab work as well.
Thursday: I went on an approximately 3 mile run in the neighborhood. It was HOT. I am never running at 11am when it is over 75 degrees again! I could do that when I was 18, but apparently not at 30.
Friday: Rest Day
Saturday: Mike and I ran together, and all told I logged just shy of 5 miles at about a 10 min mile pace. I didn't feel quite ready for the scheduled 7 miles, and neither did he. In hindsight, I wish I would have pushed myself a bit more and done at least 6, but oh well.
Sunday: Cross training - At the gym, did 30 min on the elliptical, plus some ab work.
So, week one is officially in the books training wise. Kind of a light start considering I should have had better base fitness coming into things. In the past I certainly would have, but working full time, plus taking two classes for the last six months left me pretty short on time. Next week I'm ready to kick (no pun intended) things up a notch. Next weekend's long run is only 5 miles, but I'll need to log some quality miles during the week before the 9 mile long run in two weeks.
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