Tonight was a speed workout, and time to reflect on the last month of training. Looking at my training log tonight I realized that over the last month I have slipped into the pattern of run, take day off, run, day off, etc. I suppose that is because the FIRST runs are really hard and I just don't feel like running on a day after a really hard day. My knees are stiff, my toes hurt, my quads are tight, something; all I know is that rest seems good. And I have been much busier with work and traveling, so it is really hard to sneak in workouts. To my great surprise, though, I found out that I actually ran more miles in August than July, and set a mileage record for me (130). I know for the high milers out there, 130 miles may be two average weeks, but for me that is a pretty solid month. And I actually did not run a single race. In fact I haven't run a race since the half marathon at the end of June. I'll probably schedule a half marathon one weekend in September just to get the racing mode back in mind. And I am curious to see if all this FIRST training has produced faster running times -- or is it just establishes muscular endurance to run 26.2 at the pace I have already established at shorter distances. I sure hope it is the former -- that FIRST has made me faster.
All of which leads me to conclude I am going to have to switch to morning runs. As I get busy this fall, and I know my schedule is going to really heat up (I often work 60+ hours per week, and commute on top of that), it is going to be increasingly hard to work out at the end of the day, much less if I ever want to see my family. So I guess, I am going to have to start getting up and doing it earlier. I am somewhat fortunate in that the New York legal world operates on a late schedule -- people are rarely in before 9 a.m. So, I can run at 7 or so and still be in office on time. But I have NEVER in my life been able to maintain a morning exercise regimen. On one level though I feel like I really have no choice, though, if I am going to make it to the starting line in November. At some point I ramble on about the glory that is college football and post my picks for the weekend.
I can't wait though, to feel the chill in the air. College football starts in earnest this weekend. Cooking out, leaves turning, crispness in the morning...my favorite time to be in New York.
Until then, Go Blue and have a great Labor Day. I am on tap for 18 miles in the Florida heat...
Yes, my favorite time of year as well, and the impending football season is almost making me forget about my knee. I'm sure I will miss my share of Saturday (and Sunday) runs in the weeks ahead. Go Big Red!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the morning switch. I made the same move about 4 years ago and it was very tough at first but now I can't imagine not doing the majority of my running in the early am. It's a great way to wake up and gather your thoughts for the day. There's a lot of mornings where I debate whether to go back to bed or head out and run. Running almost always wins and I can say that after the runs I always feel glad that I did them.
ReplyDeleteRunning in the morning is always hard, but the feeling you get mid day when you know that 1) You can eat whatever you want and 2) You don't have anything to do after work-- is awesome! Good job on August and goodluck with the morning runs! Watch for those busy frantic drivers in the morning!
ReplyDeleteI must admit, I am a morning run whore. I love it. I'd rather get it over with and be done with it than find excuses to prevent me from not later in the evening... that and I work a night job. Good luck in your quest!
ReplyDeleteHave a great vaca and enjoy our lovely sun!!!!
Just start early for your FL run. We have to start at 5 AM to get ours in before it becomes unbearable.
ReplyDelete130 miles is GREAT! GO YOU!
enjoy your morning runs and make sure you smile and say 'good morning' to every miserable b*stard out there... i'm running at 6.30am most days while there is daylight and loving it...
ReplyDeleteI've never been a morning runner either. I can run at 8 at night, but at 8 in the morning???? hmmm unless its a race I can't do it!
ReplyDeleteI am so impressed you fit in all that running (a new PR!) on top of your busy schedule.
congrats on the great mileage! i'm really looking forward to some good running weather too. i love it when the air is crisp. stay cool in FL.
ReplyDeleteI'm interested in how this FAST program works out. I don't know if I would like having 3 intense workouts per week, I'm kind of a weenie, lol. I have never been able to maintain a morning workout schedule either, but I'm going to have to start. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteUg, I have so much respect for morning runners because I just can't do it. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThere were so many PR marks set for monthly mileage in August. It's great to see.
ReplyDeleteI highly recommend the switch to AM runs. I used to do everything over my lunch break, but since making the switch to mornings recently, I have been able to stretch out the daily mileage because I have more time. Plus, it keeps you honest -- makes you think twice about that next drink when you know you have to wake up early the next morning and run.