Over the past 3 months, I’ve been training for the Richmond Marathon. This will be my second time running this course and I’m really excited! Richmond is a beautiful, historic city, and the race is friendly, fun, entertaining and challenging.
In previous years, I devoted myself to marathon training like it was my job. I ate, slept, and drank my training. I dreamed about the race. I contemplated which strategy I would adopt for race day. I set 3 different goals…the dream goal, the realistic goal, and the please-just-let-me-finsh goal. For this race, my 12th marathon, I’ve adopted a whole new training plan.
With my new focus on triathlons, I haven’t run the number of miles I once did. Instead, I swim and bike much, much more. I’ve noticed that the crosstraining has kept me healthier and hurting less. Hmmm…must be something to this! That is, until this last month.
During October I’ve picked up my running considerably and backed down my crosstraining. Guess what? My hamstring on my left leg is hurting and my legs feel heavy and tired. Coincidence? I think not. I firmly believe that the addition of the bike and swim have made me a healthier, stronger athlete.
Next week begins my 2 week taper. I’m going to taper like it’s my job. Bring it on!
