January 28, 2012

91 days to go

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!

2 comments:

  1. 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! :)
    Aunt Lynda

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    1. 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.
      Love,
      Patti

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