One last "Long Run"

"Be unrelenting. If you don't believe, then who will?" -Kara Goucher

Heading into a race you always wonder: did I train enough? Could I have worked harder? What could I have done differently? Am I ready? Can I hit my goal?

If you are thinking this, you are not alone.  As runner's we are based on individual success. This allows us to put a great deal of pressure on ourselves.  Our outcomes are determined by our work, our preparation, and our execution.

Just breath. Trust in your training. And take one mile at a time.

"If you have the courage to fail, then you have the courage to succeed." -Shalane Flanagan

This is something I deal with a lot.  I put a great deal of pressure on myself and often forget about having fun with running.  I want to be the best I can be at this sport. I am one of the most competitive people I know (ask my boyfriend).  But with all of this I go through ups and downs with my confidence levels.  I am new at running, and after only completing my first marathon only 5 months ago, I have a lot to learn.  I try to gain something different from every run, every workout, and every emotion I feel along the way.

Saturday was my last "Long Run" before my next marathon.  I will start tapering the next 3 weeks.

17 miles that felt at a rather easy pace for me.  I felt pretty strong for the majority of the run.  I was lucky to be able to complete this run back on a trail which is relatively flat with a few small hills.  I learned last marathon training that I could not continue to do my long runs around my neighborhood because the hills are so drastic that it was killing my legs.

Sunday: Homemade whole wheat apple pancakes for breakfast and homemade "healthier" Greek yogurt mac and cheese.  Love experimenting in the kitchen with good food and fresh ingredients.

Monday: Recovery run, lots of stretching, hip mobility, and core work.

 Keep on running.

Keep your head up.

Prepare for YOUR race.

On your left.