Mediocre Runners

Well, folks, I successfully completed my SECOND half-marathon this past Sunday in VA Beach and finished at 2 hrs and 22 minutes, which I know, is pretty mediocre. And to be honest, I am really proud of Brie and me (my BFF who I ran with) because we logged the training miles, proved that ‘non-runners’ could in fact complete a long-distance event, and were smiling and laughing the whole way–it was truly a fun, uplifting race.

But at the same time I remember realizing throughout the entire run that my lungs were never being pushed (there was a moment at like mile 9 when I realized I was having a full-on conversation with Brie w/o any shortness of breath…at all) and instead I started developing this nagging pain in my left hip at mile 6 or 7 that slowly got worse as the run progressed. I knew I would finish, but I was surprised at how sore I was getting only half-way in and I know if I want to train for a full marathon I’m going to need to go see a running professional and talk shoes, stretching, stride.

Speaking of which, I am officially committed to the Feb. 2010 Austin Marathon. Thought I was going to do the Tucson Dec. 2009 one, but decided I didn’t want to push anything too soon and Travis agreed to run it with me! Huzzah! I know there are a number of different ways to train for marathons, but I’m not down for the five-runs-a-week types and would rather def get one long run in a week and maybe two other days of hills & fartleks, but that’s it for running. I’ll spend the rest of my workout time on crosstraining (spinning, stairclimbing, hiking) and possibly/potentially CrossFit or another form of strength training.

But I really want to push myself hard on the strength training. Ever since I started working out regularly I’ve always skimped on strength training–if I didn’t have enough time, ST got dropped, if I’m a lil’ extra tired, I forgive myself for throwing in the towel and going home after one set of squats.  I’ve become entirely more committed when it comes to cardio, and I’ve got to balance those two out.

Sooo, I’m piecing together some fitness goals and I’m thinking they’re going to be centered around this upcoming marathon (not only finishing, but getting faster) and committing to ST, but don’t know how to quite quantify the second one yet.  Dinner with Pat & Jon tomorrow night to discuss over sushi and sake bombs (for Jon), red wine for me.  Paleo-style.

Jess is running the Rock ‘N Roll half marathon today in Virginia Beach.  Good luck Jess!  We here a MR are wishing you well.