Wowzer....what a run!
I had to do my long run today as we are traveling back home tomorrow. I definitely don't mind having two rest days in a row.....not at all!
I had a hard time sleeping last night because I kept thinking about this darn run. All my runs this week have fallen into the "just okay" department. It is SO hot and humid....the complete opposite of what I am use too.
I finally got out of bed at 7:00am when hubby's alarm went off so he could go scuba diving. I snarfed down my banana, got on my running gear and headed across the way to the fitness center. Mentally I had prepared to do 3x6 mile runs OR 9x2 mile runs. I planned on taking a GU every 5 miles. And I planned to hop off for a 30 second "rest" after every 2 miles...wipe off my face, get a drink, etc. So it went as follows: 6 miles (30 sec rest at mile 2 and 4 - GU at mile 5...just had to stop long enough to grab it off the floor) - 56:00ish 6.4 mph. I felt good during this set. Legs warmed up quickly and got into a groove.
Reset the TM. Went to the bathroom to wash my face, refill my water bottle, grab a new sweat towel. 6 miles (30 sec rest at mile 2 and 4 - GU at mile 4) - 56:00ish 6.4mph. SO glad to be done with 2 sets and only 1 to go. Feet started to feel a bit sore, but legs doing good. Reset TM, bathroom, new sweat towel, refill water bottle, etc.
6 miles (GU at mile 2). I started to struggle after mile 2. My feet were sore and my legs were getting tired and I was getting BORED!!!! I watched the movie "When in Rome" and "Mission Impossible 3", but I was starting to go crazy. I stopped every mile for my 30 sec rest for the last 4 miles. I was disappointed I had to stop that much, but I was so sick of looking out that window! Plus my shorts and shirt were completely drenched with sweat. It looked like I had jumped into the pool. I had sweat dribbles running down my legs and the tops of my socks were soaked. 55:00 -- started at 6.4mph and bumped it up at the end. Just to do this run alone and on a TM was a big accomplishment for me (even though the last 4 miles weren't ideal). I wasn't even sure I had the mental toughness to get through any of it. My shins felt great (hooray!!!!!). I guess there is a reason WHY we do them...learning! I know I need to mentally prepared for a hard last few miles...running on tired legs.
After the run, I quickly changed my shorts and shirt and headed to breakfast. I couldn't eat that much....GI started to get a bit funny. Then I stood in the pool for a few minutes up to my thighs. It wasn't as cold as I hoped, but it will have to work for an ice bath (no ice machines here.....ughhhh). My goal for the rest of the day is to eat as much Cadbury chocolate, drink strawberry smoothies and relax on the beach. Because it is all coming to an end really quick!
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