This component is very essential in training for a Marathon. I run during the week for conditioning but, on Saturdays my long runs are solely to prepare my body to endure the 26.2 mile distance.
I’m presently training for the Pasadena Marathon, and this past Saturday, to my surprise I had to run 19 miles. I don’t know what I was thinking but, I thought I had to run 14 miles. Since I like to know the mileage before the day of, so I can program myself and my body to accept that distance, I was a bit distraught. But, at the start I just said, okay the sooner I start the sooner I can take care of my plans for the day. Considering the difference in the distances, I was a bit behind schedule the entire day.
Since I had programmed myself for (14) miles, the last (5) miles were a bit of a challenge. The mind is very powerful! Had I programmed myself for the (19), I would have handled the entire distance well.
Instead of enjoying the entire run, there was a constant battle between my body and my mind for the last (5) miles. There were many arguments. For example, “My foot hurts”, “I thought I was only suppose to run (14) miles, while not stop at that?” “I’ll do (19) miles next week promise.” “The hill is too hard today don’t do it, stay on the flat course.”
It is very important to pay attention to your training schedule. Make sure you prepare and condition yourself during the week physically and mentally for the weekend endurance runs. Handled properly these long runs can be challenging in a fun way. When you reach the (22) distance in training it’s a GREAT feeling. Don’t mess it up.
At this point you are ready to tackle the 26.2 mile distance. You can rest assured that your mind and body will work together so that when you cross the finish line, you will be overflowing with joy and fulfillment.
Showing posts with label pain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pain. Show all posts
Friday, April 17, 2009
Friday, March 20, 2009
Conditioning
As a rule I run at least three short runs during the week. The length range from 45-60 minute runs. These runs are for conditioning, and I take them seriously. The total miles I run during the week equal or are greater than the miles I have programmed for my long weekend run.
This rule really works for me. When I do not abide by it, the long run is not as easy. It’s also important not to over train during the week. Over training will cause fatigue and possible injuries. It is important to run the distance and feel good when you finish.
During conditioning I also focus on my posture, as well as my breathing. By practicing all my techniques during the week, they come naturally during the long runs.
It’s important to focus on your foundation and gradually build it to perfection. If you do not practice the necessary techniques during the week, more than likely you will not magically employ them during your long endurance runs.
The conditioning process also includes proper stretching before and after every distance, no matter how short or long. You will notice a great difference when you get up early enough so that you have time to stretch properly. If you are doubtful, try rushing out of bed, rushing to put on your gear, and rushing out for a run without doing your stretching exercise routine. Your performance will suffer. I know some people who do this, just to get a few minutes more of sleep, and their runs are never pleasant. They experience pain. Believe me it just does not work. The extra minutes of sleep are not worth risking an injury. Always prepare, it is better to cut down on the time or mileage, and not the stretching, if you happen to be behind schedule.
When I wake up at 5:00 AM, the first thing I do is drink (2) glasses of water. This actually wakes me up completely. I then can continue to prepare for my run, making sure I have the proper attire for a smoother run.
Follow these guidelines and you'll complete a good run. Prevention is the key. Prevent injury, fatigue and pain.
This rule really works for me. When I do not abide by it, the long run is not as easy. It’s also important not to over train during the week. Over training will cause fatigue and possible injuries. It is important to run the distance and feel good when you finish.
During conditioning I also focus on my posture, as well as my breathing. By practicing all my techniques during the week, they come naturally during the long runs.
It’s important to focus on your foundation and gradually build it to perfection. If you do not practice the necessary techniques during the week, more than likely you will not magically employ them during your long endurance runs.
The conditioning process also includes proper stretching before and after every distance, no matter how short or long. You will notice a great difference when you get up early enough so that you have time to stretch properly. If you are doubtful, try rushing out of bed, rushing to put on your gear, and rushing out for a run without doing your stretching exercise routine. Your performance will suffer. I know some people who do this, just to get a few minutes more of sleep, and their runs are never pleasant. They experience pain. Believe me it just does not work. The extra minutes of sleep are not worth risking an injury. Always prepare, it is better to cut down on the time or mileage, and not the stretching, if you happen to be behind schedule.
When I wake up at 5:00 AM, the first thing I do is drink (2) glasses of water. This actually wakes me up completely. I then can continue to prepare for my run, making sure I have the proper attire for a smoother run.
Follow these guidelines and you'll complete a good run. Prevention is the key. Prevent injury, fatigue and pain.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Post Surgery Blues
A couple of years ago, after my third marathon, I decided to obtain a Masters Degree. It was challenging as I was working full time and helping my son fund for my Bachelors. Adding icing on the cake, I had (2) surgeries which I had to recover from.
Homework, stress, the lack of time, and the surgeries did not leave much room for me to focus on maintaining a healthy body. As a result, I gained a large amount of weight.
When I started training again, I experienced every pain imaginable. My body was not accustomed to the excess weight. I could not finish (1) lap on the track. Frustration and fear set in. I thought I would never be able to complete another marathon.
In January of 2007, I started a strength training program. I later combined the program with a Weight Management Program in July of 2007. I was finally learning how to eat healthy and eat enough to maintain a healthy weight for life.Before, I was eating health foods, but not enough. I was depriving my body of the necessary nutrients it required to enhance my metabolism. I was forcing my body into hibernation mode, my body was storing fat it was not burning it.
Today, from not being able to run around the track once in 2007, I’ve completed (1) Marathon and (5) Half Marathons in 2008.I have lost 55 lbs, and 57.75 inches. My body fat was 42% in 2007, it is now down to 28%. In June of 2007, I wore a size 16; I now wear a size 6.
Homework, stress, the lack of time, and the surgeries did not leave much room for me to focus on maintaining a healthy body. As a result, I gained a large amount of weight.
When I started training again, I experienced every pain imaginable. My body was not accustomed to the excess weight. I could not finish (1) lap on the track. Frustration and fear set in. I thought I would never be able to complete another marathon.
In January of 2007, I started a strength training program. I later combined the program with a Weight Management Program in July of 2007. I was finally learning how to eat healthy and eat enough to maintain a healthy weight for life.Before, I was eating health foods, but not enough. I was depriving my body of the necessary nutrients it required to enhance my metabolism. I was forcing my body into hibernation mode, my body was storing fat it was not burning it.
Today, from not being able to run around the track once in 2007, I’ve completed (1) Marathon and (5) Half Marathons in 2008.I have lost 55 lbs, and 57.75 inches. My body fat was 42% in 2007, it is now down to 28%. In June of 2007, I wore a size 16; I now wear a size 6.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
