Recovery Run Blues/Pre Half Marathon Workouts

My legs have been fighting a brick wall this week during my runs and I think I know why. Sunday, the day after my long run, I ran the three mile recovery run that my program suggests that I do. In the past I've been taking the day after my long runs to rest and allow my muscle tissue to rebuild after being broken down the day before. I have yet to let my legs recover, which leads me to believe that is why I haven't been feeling up to par during my weekday runs this week.

Monday I stuck to my typical go-to with the elliptical. I worked out for a hard 40 minutes as I don't think reaching the suggested max (see workout schedule on left side bar) is necessary. As long as you get some variation in your routine - not like the elliptical is really throwing a wrench in my day to day - I think it's sufficient in training.

On Tuesday that brick wall that my legs have been battling applied to my entire body, including my mind. I was dragging all day possibly due to a lack of sleep from always being on the go, and when I walked into my apartment after work I hit the couch and didn't open my eyes for the next hour and a half. When I woke up it was nearing dark and as I've said before I don't trust people enough to run when it's pitch black outside. I had to force myself into running clothes and push my own behind out the door. Some nights are tougher than others. I managed to squeeze a solid four miles out of me even though I was supposed to run seven. Hey - at least I got out there. Dinner was ready (thanks to Chris) when I got back and after I ate my eyes didn't hold up for much longer. I was out like a light (or the Twins in the first round of the playoffs) by 9:30pm.

You guessed it ... I'm a YANKEES fan! Today I was rushed in during my run because I had a date with Jeter and the gang at 6:07pm ... Yanks vs. Twins, first round of MLB playoffs. Getting home from work at 5:15pm allowed me 15 minutes to get ready and be out the door so I could get my four mile run over with before the first pitch. I ran eight-minute miles and walked back through the door at 6:09pm - JUST MISSED IT - but still made it for the top of the first. Not bad.

I plan on taking Thursday and Friday off to let my body rejuvenate before my half-marathon this weekend. If anything I might do a very slow two mile run tomorrow if I feel up to it. On the other hand I might just stick to some core work. Someone had described the hills in the Baltimore half-marathon as "beasts" today, which has made me that much more nervous. The anticipation of competition always makes me over think. I keep forgetting that I'm more than prepared to run 13.1 miles. Any fear or doubt will go away once the gun goes off ... it's just getting to the start line in one mental piece.

Alright it's time for me to shower and get my Yankees shirt on! I'll touch base before the race! Talk soon! GO YANKS!