I’m writing this at 8:30 p.m. on Friday night…sitting in my bed…wearing pajamas. Obviously I live such a cool life ;) But such is life during marathon training. I try to relax on Friday so I can prepare for Saturday’s long run. As of right now, I’m preparing for my 20 mile run, the peak of my training. This is the farthest distance I will run before race day. Cue the high expectations….
I place so much unnecessary pressure on the number (specifically this week’s number, 20). If I can’t do 20, how am I going to run the full marathon? What if my leg hurts (my quad has a knot in it now)? What if I miss my alarm? What if my pace is so slow that it takes me X amount of time?
I think of all the things that could go wrong, physically and mentally, and that in itself is draining. I’ve run 20 miles before, heck I’ve run 26.2. Last week I pulled off 17.5 miles and thinking back, I’m not sure how I did (that tends to be the reoccurring theme with my long runs). But that just proves that we are capable of more than we think. That doesn’t mean we should push through injuries or anything, but it means we can overcome mental roadblocks.
I NEVER want running to become something I dread and although I’m nowhere near that place now, I just keep reminding myself “I’m going for a run.” Not necessarily a 20 mile run, but just a run. I’m doing something I love for a little longer than normal. I don’t expect running 20 miles to ever not be a big deal for me. It’s not easy, and shouldn’t be (?!) but it’s something I know I can conquer.
Deep breaths, positive thoughts and a good night’s sleep is what I need.
See you on the flip side!
You’ve got this Emily!! I know you will do it and, of course, rock it!!
Thanks, Brie! I appreciate the support :)
May the run gods be with you :)
Haha and the yoga/strength training gods with you :)
I agree. I doubt myself way too much and anticipate the task at hand so much that it stresses me out and i don’t end up enjoying it like i should.
I’m positive you can do this! I just don’t know how you don’t manage to get bored running that long and how you manage to fit in your college life all at once.
Holy crap! You’ll feel so good (and sore ;)) when it’s done. When I was training for my half, I remember every time I broke a new PR… it’s always surprising how much you actually CAN do when you’re not sure if you can! Hope it went well!
I know exactly what you mean! I guess it’s a benefit of having a blog so now I have “evidence” that I can do it in the future lol…Hope you’re enjoying your weekend!