In recent blogs, you have seen how my runs have not been so great. I have been struggling if I'm being straight to the point. Runs have been less than stellar, and I just feel like I'm slogging along. My lungs hurt, my legs hurt, I'm tired, and I am feeling really unmotivated. I have a race coming up next Sunday, so I am going to continue running this week, but next week after my race, I am thinking of taking a week or 2 off from running and focusing on resting my body from the pounding I take from running. I will bike, lift, and do other forms of cardio to maintain my base, but think it is what's best for my body. After I take the rest, I can hop back into running and start training for a fall race, either a half marathon or marathon, but most likely a half.
Since I have to continue training this week, I am going to make a list of goals for this week and adhere to them to motivate myself:
1. Hydrate- This is definitely something I don't do enough. I am MAKING myself drink more water this week. AT LEAST 4 big glasses a day, if not more!
Since I have to continue training this week, I am going to make a list of goals for this week and adhere to them to motivate myself:
1. Hydrate- This is definitely something I don't do enough. I am MAKING myself drink more water this week. AT LEAST 4 big glasses a day, if not more!
2. Stretch/foam roll: This is another thing I don't do often enough. I hate the foam roller but I know I need to use it to keep my muscles function properly!
3. Listen to my body: If I am tired, or feel pain, or am sore, listen to my body. Maybe I shouldn't life one day, or maybe I shouldn't run. Maybe I should just take my bike out and do something less straining on the body.
4. Bike! I love biking and need to pull my road bike out and pump up the tires to get some good cycling in! I kind of want to try some brick workouts. Do a nice long bike ride and follow it with a short run with the dog! This will help my muscles recover from long, hard, tiring runs and speed work!
5. Eat well- I am going to keep my nutrition in check and stick closely to my macros to make sure I am getting enough protein, carbs, and fat! I feel better when I eat well so that is what I'll do!
These are some simple goals, but sometimes I forgot to do these things. Having this list for everyone to see holds me accountable and I am more likely to follow these goals! Also, I want to make sure I take the time to bike because it's something I enjoy, and sometimes I don't allow myself to things because I think I need to be running, but I don't have to always be running!
Have a peaceful Sunday everyone!
With love, animals, and running
Rachel