Fact#1
The last 1/2 Marathon I entered got cancelled because of a horrible rain storm (In a state that has had the longest drought in history this past year)Fact#2
I was just thinking to myself about 2 weeks ago that though I have had some random ankle pain, and some weird IT twinges, my back hasn't been hurting me at all!
(I think the lesson I learned here is you don't look a gift horse in the mouth, or however that saying goes)
Fact#3
I felt I was really ready to "bring it"** at this 1/2 marathon next weekend. I was even thinking of maybe a total time of 1:45-1:50. I was feeling strong, feeling fast, feeling like a bad ass
(I think the lesson learned here is that I am not a bad ass)
**I have been doing p90x and I am getting in to the lingo he uses, hence the "bring it"
Fact#4
I just blogged about completing 1000 miles in 2011. So, I would have had to run about 31 miles a week...and I could easily do that...but now I have to run like 40-50 miles a week...ummmm...maybe not
(Lesson learned here, don't make big goals, just go with the flow, don't say anything and when you hit 1000 you are just happy you did it, no need to brag)
And finally....my conjecture
The running gods, which I guess look like this
Or maybe???????
I pushed too hard on my 20 mile run, I didn't stretch enough as I knew I should....and maybe just maybe when I first felt that back pain (because I did feel a little the last few times I ran) I should have done yoga right away because it always helps....and maybe I should have been doing some back strength exercises every day.
I ran 3 miles last night....4 miles this morning...and it's feeling so so. No major pain, but it's sore. I just need to take it easy. And I need to get it in my head that I don't NEED to race the 1/2 coming up. I just need to be thankful that I can run, even if it's slow, even if I don't come in under 2 hours.
Grrr.....I am trying to be accepting and appreciative of where I am. It's not easy
I disagree - you ARE a bad ass. And, I don't think a 1:45 is out of the question. But, either way, you're right - it's always good to put in perspective how lucky we are to simply be able to run, no matter what the clock says.
ReplyDeleteI signed up for Decker, but was actually thinking of not running. I've been discouraged because I don't feel like I have my 'race legs' back. Maybe I'll tag along with you if you don't mind (although good chance you would leave me in the dust :)
Wow. We could be living two parallel lives right now. Thanks for your comment and you are 100% right. One race is not worth a life time of running. I think my marathon is officially out as I sit here home sick from work coughing up a storm. My body is definitely winning this battle. Body 1 Mind 0.
ReplyDeleteI think we both could use a step back and try running for fun and enjoyment. I have another race in June that I would like to try. Until then, let's just enjoy the fact that we can run and we can run on our own terms.
Rest up. Take your own advice. I know I am. :-)
Well you're doing a very good job of trying to accept what is. As a competitor myself (not a runner though...I'm impressed you're running 3 miles with a bad back!) I know how it feels to have to give up. But there will be other races, and your body thanks you...ok, I think I'm sounding way too preachy...how 'bout this instead: It totally sucks you can't run! Hang in there!...better? :)
ReplyDelete