Today officially marks the end of week two of my
OBX marathon training. In all honesty, it doesn't feel much like half training because I really haven't been doing anything different. Here's a clip of what weeks 1 & 2 looked like:
As you'll notice, both weeks only require a total of 10 miles. That's not too bad, right? Here's what was actually completed:
So I assume if you care that much, you'll have to click it to make it bigger. I've consistently missed two days per week, each being strength or cross training. While my miles are still slow, I ran on a different brand on treadmill for the second Tuesday run and noticed it is significantly faster. I've amped up my speed if I am forced to run on the older treadmills.
To break it all down:
Running: My method is to run at a slow, easy pace for the first half of week day runs. After the half, I increase my speed by 2-3 notches for each song. This is a way for me to sort of get in speed work while feeling like I'm being productive on the treadmill. For my first Sunday run, I utilized the same method. Today, I won't. I plan to stop worrying about the time, and keep an easy pace. I am going to attempt to include a treadmill hill program in order to semi- begin prep for outside running again (
which I plan to incorporate starting in September).
Cross Training: I've been doing the elliptical, but I'm not sure that this is appropriate cross training. I don't have a YCMA (
where I work out) appropriate swim suit, so swimming isn't an option now. I don't have a good outside bike, so that isn't an option either. I'm all for recommendations!
Strength: I'm planning to incorporate the 30 Day Shred again when I start outside runs and going to the gym less. The first week, I did a circuit of the
New Rules for Lifting for Women plan with one of my friends. I may try the book at some point. For now, I'm content with using my Women's Health app with quick circuits.
I know strength and cross training are important and will help prevent injuries during the half. I plan to continue to find ways to make these a part of my weekly routine even if it is tricks at home. I haven't started foam rolling yet. I am pretty happy with my progress from the last two weeks though. It has been difficult making the rush from school to the gym most days of the week. I look forward to outside training again. It has been easier since D has been out of town a lot within the past two weeks. As he starts being home again, I need to ensure that I make morning runs a priority to get in my training.
UPDATE: It's official...the other treadmills are faster. I did the same 4 miles + added a hill program + maintained the same easy speed and finished in 50:29 (read: a minute and a half faster than last week's on the other treadmill).
