Monday, July 7, 2008

Running Rut

I don't know what's wrong with me.  The last two runs I've had have been miserable.  I ran 5 miles on Thursday and it was a struggle the whole time.  My lungs, legs, heart, everything wanted to stop.  It could be that the cold I've been fighting for about a week now was peaking then, but today was just as bad.  I only made it 3 miles and I was lucky to do that.  I think I'm over the hump as far as the cold goes, but it was just a fight to even go out today.  I didn't get a long run in because of the holiday this weekend.  But to be honest, I don't think I would have been able to do one with the way I've been feeling.  It's discouraging knowing that if I don't get up early, it gets too hot to go for very long.  I'm in a rut and hope this too will pass.

4 comments:

anna jo said...

are you training for anything right now? it seems like with two marathons not too long ago, you'd be okay with easing back on the running. maybe your body needs some rest. it's always hard for me to keep running in the summer because it's just so hot outside. try some cross training activities! I am totally in to swimming right now because it's a great way to beat the heat and it's such a good workout. or you could go biking (that is if you have a bike) or even hiking with the fam!

but I hope you find your running groove again soon. life is sad without running.

Unknown said...

Jen, It's ok to scale back, especially in the heat. If you're not training for a specific race then just slip into a maintenance schedule, say 10 to 15 miles per week until the heat wave passes. I agree with Anna Jo.. cross training is a great option... swimming, weights (preferably in a ac gym) will keep you active and the change will invigorate the spirit. Watch the HRM, that's key. If you notice your HR go up then either you're sick or the heat is too intense. Also, have you considered intervals? Set your fancy Garmin to alarm for 10 and 1's (i.e. run 10 minutes/ walk 1 minute) or even 5 and 1's. Don't discourage, this too will pass. Stay cool. Love your blog. Michael

Anonymous said...

i tend to get that way when i start thinking about running...therefore I try to avoid it at all cost!! hee hee!

Jen said...

Thanks everybody for the support and the advice. It's times like this that I really appreciate having bloggy buddies.
Mike, unfortunately this is not a heat wave and is life for the next 3 months. So I just need to get up earlier! Not easy when the kids and I go to be way to late. Discipline! I know! But it is summer after all!
Anna, I wish I could swim as good as you. I'm going to give it a try and see what I can do. I never really had swim lessons when I was little so I'm not super comfortable in the water. A friend helped me out last fall so I've got the basics, but I'm not good by any means. I need to go back to the gym and do some classes too. Thanks for the advice!