As mentioned before, Kelly and I are going through this process with several friends (not sure how we'd do it without them!). Now that we are approaching the half way mark with our miles, physical and emotional obstacles are starting to surface. Some are noticing a weakening of the immune system causing constant fatigue, others are finding themselves battling the aches and pains of pulled muscles or stressed knees. And still others are feeling overwhelmed by the weekly increase in miles (how will I ever do more???). Like I said, physically and emotionally our team is desperate need of support!!!!
Here is what I'm asking you to do.................If you get a free moment -PLEASE- send a word of encouragement to this blog post. I'll be sure to pass them on to my team. Yesterday, some words of encouragement were shared before our 10 mile run. It DID make a difference!!! Our honored heroes and this cause are making us achieve goals we never imagined, your words of encouragement will motivate the team to keep moving forward. Without any doubt, the individuals facing cancer first hand are suffering in far greater ways than this team. That reality is never forgotten!
Startling Fact: It was shared before the run at Stoney that every 5min. in the world somebody is diagnosed with some form of blood cancer. Every 9min. somebody loses their battle. Knowing how many lives were effected by cancer during my runs yesterday and today is mind blowing.
Today's Run - 3 miles / 24min/57sec
- Randy
WELCOME!!!
On May 14th, 2007 we joined Team in Training and became part of our first ever marathon adventure. A marathon dedicated to finding a cure for cancer. Signing up for a 26mile race was a very scary experience to say the least!!! To be honest, we can both find ourselves out of breath running up the basement stairs, LOL!!! When we found out about TNT we felt it was a great way to get in shape while supporting a well deserved cause. The following blogs are journal entries of what the process was really like for us. From first day training, till race day, we'll be keeping a log of our efforts, set-backs and triumphs. We'll also keep you posted on our fundraising achievements. Check back from time to time to see how we're doing. We'll need encouragement and support during this process, but not as much as those battling cancer!
3 comments:
Hi Randy and Kelly,
Reading your blog is so uplifting to others, especially knowing your purpose and goal. Words of advise? None can be as helpful as what you guys have given, but here are some thoughts...
Keep track of your resting heart rate in the morning (before you get out of bed). If you have an increased rate, this is your body telling you that you are doing too much. If you need to take an extra day off, do so without making up those miles the next week.... just let them go. Take the time to let your body heal and get stronger. A day off should be physical rest. Cross training is great and all, but if your body is showing signs of stress, respect the signs. Think of your mind, body and spirit as one. All three have to be in unison for optimal performance.
I know the training schedule drives you, but again, listen to and respect your body. Don't be afraid to adjust your schedule when needed. This experience will be more enjoyable with less injuries and minimal stress. Walk breaks are the best way to stay away from injuries. Don't be afraid to take them. Marathoners are not wimps and walking does not make you a wimp!
Evaluate your goal... is it to finish (a victory in itself) or is it to finish with a specific time goal? The first marathon is such a learning experience. Allow your body to adjust to the increases in mileage without the pressure of being fast. Make sure your long runs are 2-2 1/2 minutes slower per mile than your marathon day pace. As suggested by Jeff Galloway in his marathon book. This is key to injury free running. Your long runs are for endurance. Tempo runs and speed work is where you will improve your speed. The long run is not a race. Go even slower in the heat or high humidity.
Take a 20 min. nap during the day. Drink a recovery drink that has a carb/protein formula for rebuilding muscle. Use Gu packs for your long runs. Try a vitamin supplement (calcium/magnesium) to help with muscle cramping. Drink plenty of water throughout each day.
Remember that the elite runners who run for a living have personal trainers, coaches, nanny's, massage therapists,and house cleaners, so they have time to train. You are trying to do it all and train. Be kind to yourselves, stay focused on your goal, treasure your new friendships, and enjoy this new piece of your marriage that you both now share. Balance is everything. Your journey is admirable!
Can I print up and keep Kelly's comment!!??? I think reading that on a daily basis will help us all!! I do have one comment though....if I were to run 2 1/2 minutes per mile slower during the long runs....I'd be crawling....lol!
Great thoughts Kelly! Sometimes we become our own worst enemy. I have difficulty at times convincing myself it's OK to take walk breaks. I feel like I'm cheating or breaking the rules in some way. The goal is to finish not break a world record. Keeping that focus can be a battle, but once accepted will make the running more enjoyable and less dangerous.
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