As I have mentioned, I just finished Week 9 of an 18 week training program. That puts me at the half way point of one of the most momentous things I have ever embarked on.
It is almost like Week 20 of a pregnancy - you're half way there, you sort of have this thing down, and yet you have no clue about what's ahead.
For more of a sports-themed analogy, it is like half time. We need to talk about what's going well and what game plans need to be changed.
So, since the half way point of anything is something to be taken note of, I wanted to jot down three thoughts I am having at this point in the game.
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1. What's going well: In general, I've been satisfied with how my long runs are going. I started with a stretch of strong, faster than expected long runs that really motivated me to keep going. Then I had one the week before I was sick that kicked my butt, the 15 miler that was disappointing but really nothing to bask at, and a PR half-marathon. I can only hope that the second half long runs leave me feeling as strong and confident as the first half.
2. What needs to change to win the game: I am less than thrilled with my inconsistency of getting my week-day runs in. I am not sure I have gotten all three week-day runs in the entire training cycle. If I have, it has been just a few. (It is supposed to be a four runs per week training plan - three during the week plus the long run.) I fully understand the long run is the most important, but I also know I need to do better at the shorter runs. Which isn't going to be easy given all we have going on in the next 4+ weeks. In all honesty, I will be content if I can get three runs in during the week and forego the fourth. If I look at the fourth as a bonus, and take some of the pressure off that I put on myself, I may be more successful going forward.
3. What we'll take note of and play by ear: One of the things I set out to do is follow Hal's plan (of three week day runs, a long run on the weekend, and one hour of cross training on Sundays) AND maintain my twice a week interval conditioning class. In an ideal world, that is manageable; however, as a full-time working mom - it is difficult! And I know many can attest to that, and still fit it in - and I am envious of you. It is a lot for me to balance. I have decided to let the cross training go on Sunday - realistically, I am getting in over an hour (80 minutes) of cross training in each week through my classes. Who says it has to be on Sunday anyway? Again, it will take off some of the pressure off of achieving the ideal schedule, allow me to focus on the 4th run if that is how I want to spend that extra day, or just take care of some of the things that get in the way during the week.
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In a nutshell; I want to be a 4 runs per week -6 workouts a week total - super dedicated athlete. But, especially now, that just isn't doable. So - I am choosing to face the second half of my current training plan focusing on what is important and most vital. I will aim for three runs per week and my two Interval Conditioning classes. I will push to make progress, and come out strong when it matters most - June 21!
When the school year is done, I can reevaluate and try to up the ante when I have a little more time on my hands!
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What three things are you thinking about right now?
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