Sunday May 21, 2017
8 weeks down and 2 to go! 13 days until race day and the taper is in effect. This past week I took a day off of running. I’ve been spot on with my training, not missing a day but after my 13 miler and the pain I had, I skipped my speed day this past Tuesday and worked on rolling, stretching, and resistance training.
At this point in training, it’s all about maintaining fitness and keeping good momentum on your side. Now is not the time to make any changes that could drastically offset the good foundation.
After a few days off of running which felt good and something my body needed, I resumed with a nice easy run with Sole Sports Tempe on Thursday evening. They were having their demo run showcasing the new Saucony Ride 10.
We got to chat with Abby who is the Saucony rep from San Diego… super cool and down to earth. They raffled off a few prizes, although we didn’t win the big one, I did manage to get a pair of Saucony Aviator sunglasses..notice the serious pose..Thank you Abby, Saucony, and the crew at Sole Sports Tempe!
On Saturday morning I was up and at it just after 5am for a 10 miler. This was a low mileage week for me and I only ran 3 days. It was a self-imposed light week since I have been feeling a little banged up after last weekend. I felt a hell of a lot better on this run, I did have that pain on my foot but not nearly as severe as last weekend. I kept on point with my pace and finished the run strong!
Now, it is officially 2 weeks until we toe the line in Des Moines for our Half and I can’t wait. I’m doing a better job of incorporating my stretches including the hip flexors, back, legs, and more. After seeing my Chiro this week, I didn’t realize how tight my hip flexors are until he started to stretch me. But I’m doing my exercises 1-2 times a day and especially after my runs.
On Sunday, it was up and early again but this time I was the hydration specialist on the bike for Carrie and Kara who were putting in 20 miles. This was Kara’s last long run before she goes for a BQ (Boston Qualifier) in San Diego in 2 weeks. She’s been hitting all her targets and there is no doubt she will get her BQ!! Carrie was also finishing up her long run before we take on the Dam to Dam Half in just under 2 weeks! Carrie is also ramped up and ready to have a great race in her home state of Iowa!
Several others including Anne and Meredith are also 2 weeks from their Half Marathon in San Diego. The women have trained very well for their race and I can’t wait to see how they do!
Final thoughts..
Now its more or less maintenance and staying healthy until race day but first Carrie and I head to Tucson this coming Memorial Weekend for an evening 5K race, The Meet Me Downtown 5K race. It’s part of the RRCA Championship race series, the same organization where I got my Coaching Certification from. It will be a warm evening but good friend Paul and his wife are also racing along with a slew of very talented runners, especially from California. I’m looking to put in an honest effort and do my best.
We’ll follow-up with a run the next morning along the Rillito River Canal, a favorite running path of mine when I lived in Tucson back in the 90’s.
Wishing everyone a great week and a great upcoming Memorial Weekend Holiday!
n2running 