Bad news... this morning I planned on running 7 miles, but at 5.5 miles in, a muscle in my back started giving me trouble and forced me to slow down and eventually stop. The funny thing is that I felt really good up to that point. I kept up a 5.5 pace for over 45 minutes, breathing was easy and not labored, and I maintained an even stride. I was really enjoying my run up to that point.
I ran 6.6 miles (in 80 minutes) today, but probably should have stopped by 6. I had my mind set on a 7 mile goal, though, and once I get my mind set to do something it's difficult to not do it. (Especially, when I know I have friends and family reading up on my training - I want to prove I can do this!) It didn't help that my husband and I spent the rest of the day walking around at the Philadelphia Auto Show. My pedometer tallied up 5 more miles as a result and my legs are beyond worn out.
I think I may be pushing myself to go too far too quickly. Only last week I started adding a fourth run to my weekly schedule. On top of the extra run, I ran almost 7 miles last Saturday (my farthest run yet). I ran this past Thursday too and covered 5 miles in 60 minutes. I need to be smarter not only about eating right, but also about how often and how hard I run. I've read in a few sources that runners aren't supposed to increase their weekly mileage by 1-2 miles. Here I am increasing my mileage these past two weeks by probably 5 or 6 miles. Needless to say, this week I will be taking it easy. Hopefully that pulling muscle in my back was a once and done incident. Please keep me in your prayers as I train!
So sorry, Mo! Hope you're feeling better soon. I think you're right - it's too much too soon. You will get there--I have no doubt--but timing is everything! Enjoy the journey! :)
ReplyDeleteAunt Lynda
I'm sorry you hurt your back. Take it easy today and feel better. I have confidence that you'll reach your goal. I'll be praying for wisdom for you as you prepare.
DeleteLove,
Patti