I run 4 times a week. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and my long runs are on Sundays.
An example of a week looks a little like this; Tuesday 4 miles (recovery run) Wednesday 6 miles, Friday 4 miles, Sunday 10 miles. I use a researched based training schedule. If you are interested in it, email me.
During my weekly runs I either run with Max and Phil or after Phil runs. Since he is teaching this summer he gets up at 4:45 and runs. So when he gets back I lace up my shoes and go or I go later with Max. I do not mind running with the B.O.B. at all. I never run with Max on my long runs. That is just too much for him.
(this is what my counter looks like in the morning, all our running gear)
I actually prefer to run my long runs alone. I do not run for speed. I run to finish a set mileage goal. If it takes me 30 minutes to run 3 miles great and if it takes me 40 minutes great. On average I run about 10 minute miles during my long runs. During my short runs it averages 9 minutes to 11 minutes per mile.
I run with a Nike chip that tracks my miles and times. I recently began using Nike+ GPS, and I LOVE it. It keeps track of my routes, my fastest pace and slowest pace. It holds me accountable and gives me the extra push when I feel like slowing down.
Here is an actual 6 mile run that I completed. This is what the Nike+ does. It breaks apart my miles and shows how fast/slow I am running. You can see that Mile 1 I was definitely warming up, and by Mile 6 I was cruising.
| MILE | TIME | AVG. PACE |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 10:22 | 10'22"/mi |
| 2 | 20:16 | 9'54"/mi |
| 3 | 30:04 | 9'48"/mi |
| 4 | 39:53 | 9'49"/mi |
| 5 | 49:45 | 9'52"/mi |
| 6 | 59:22 | 9'37"/mi |
I loathe running long distances on a treadmill. I prefer to run outside. It makes the run go by faster and keeps your eyes busy. Also when you run outside you run on different terrains and hills. You have to keep a pace when you run outside. On a treadmill you choose the pace and go with it. Also on a treadmill the belt helps to pull your feet back, where as outside you have to do it on your own. Don't get me wrong, I have a treadmill and I use it. I use it when the weather is too crummy or when I run short distances.
Good running shoes are SO important. I have ran in many shoes and my favorite by far are my Brooks. They are light on my feet but filled with just the right amount of cushion. I would suggest going to a running store and trying on a few pairs and run in them. You will know which ones feel right for you.
Hydration is also very important. I run with a hydration belt. I do not run with sports drinks. I just don't like them. My husband does. I run with GU. I use the GU on my long runs. All it is is carbs to keep you going. It is the right amount of sugar to keep your body moving. Some people don't like GU. It literally is like a thick sweet syrup. I just squeeze it in my mouth and chug water. Done and done.
Training for a marathon takes dedication. There are mornings when I am so tired and I can barely keep eyes open, but I just go and do it. Because I know that if I don't go I am setting myself up to skip another run and then another run, and you get the point.
I was feeling really burnt out last month. Instead of running a lot of miles I backed off and ran short runs. I did this for about 2 weeks. I ran with no set goal. Thankfully with my training schedule I had a few weeks to slack off and not push it as hard. Since my burn out and my time off, I feel rejuvenated and ready to rock this race.
One thing I have learned about myself since I became a runner is, your mind is a very powerful tool. If I tell myself I can not run another mile, guess what, my body gives up. But, if I tell myself after running 8 miles in 90 degree weather, that I can go another 2 miles, guess what, I can.
I look back at all the miles I have ran and I am so impressed with what my body can do. I am so thankful for my health and ability to run. I am thankful that God gave me the desire to run.
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