The Ups and Downs of Training

Rolling out after my run. Make it a habit.

If training were easy...then would crossing the finish line feel the same?  Would setting a PR feel the same?

The simple answer is no. We all run for many reasons.  Some for health, some for a good cause, some to fulfill a competitive nature, but whatever the reason, we do it.  Through it all we endure the aches and pains of training, the broken toe nails, the dehydration, the exhaustion, but we all have our reason for why we do it.  Our reason is what pushes us through the ups and downs of training.  Then we cross the finish line, and the rush of emotion we feel is evidence enough that it is all worth it.

This past week I faced a few ups and downs in my training--mostly downs.  I was sick earlier in the week which lead to low miles and fatigue. My long run on Saturday was just bad.  My legs felt good for the first 10 miles, but I could feel my body beginning to cramp up and pain shot through my legs.  The humidity was playing a huge factor in my fatigue.  Plus the remnants of my cold lingered in my ear, nose, and throat.

I quick vomit on mile 14 was my sign to start running back home.  This feeling is definitely not something you want to feel less than 2 months until your next race. The week had shot my confidence. My legs were heavy. I was gasping for air.  My last mile home I had to remind myself why I do this.  Why I put myself through this pain.  I continued home, showered, and put the run behind me. I knew I could not dwell on what had just happened.

I rested Sunday.

Today I headed out on a challenging Up and Down Coarse with no music.  I wanted to focus on my footsteps and my breathing.  I did not want the distraction of music.  My goal was to run off just my motivation and just relax. I took the 8.5 miles slow and steady as I climbed the hills. Focusing on my stride and my controlled power up and down the hills.  I felt good. My confidence began to slowly creep back.

Confidence plays a huge factor in running and in life.  We must believe in our capabilities in order to succeed.  Fear of our inabilities will only set us up for failure.  We must prove to ourselves that through our hard work, determination, and focus that we can confidently conquer challenges that may arise. 

Keep running.

Believe in yourself.

On your left.