The Last Long Run: 12 Miles

Good Morning!!

Last Thursday marked my final long run before the Rock n Roll USA half marathon on March 16. I can’t believe it’s two weeks away!!

Since my shin has been bothering me, I didn’t think it was smart to be running 14 miles with race day quickly approaching. As much as this killed me, I knew it was a good decision. I set out with no end goal – I was just going to run as far/long as I could depending on the shin.

I was up bright and early Thursday morning (working the weekends means I have to do a weekly long run) and munched on my typical pre-run fuel …

1/2 a bagel with PB and jelly – seriously tho, there’s nothing better than this scrumptious combo

After I digested and got ready, I headed to the gym to post up on a treadmill for as long as I could … well until my run was done

As I’ve said before, the treadmill isn’t my fav, but when it’s pitch black and freezing cold, I’m not trying to become an ice cube on my run (aka. I’m a bit of a baby when it comes to the dark and cold )

I ended up getting in 12 miles!! The shin didn’t give me any problems – just the monotony of the treadmill got on my nerves after a while Either way, I completed the 12 and felt great after! The post-run stretch and foam rolling was wonderful – the muscles have been tight lately, so it was nice to spend some extra time stretching.

I munched on a nutty protein bar post-run before hopping in the shower to get ready for class.

Once I got ready, my stomach started to growl, so I headed straight to the kitchen. However, when I got there, I couldn’t decide what I wanted – this had NEVER happened to me .. especially after a long run.  After going back and forth with different ideas and cravings, I settled on “a little bit of everything”

2 farm fresh “runny” eggs, steamed broccoli, black beans, whole wheat toast, and sweet strawberries ; a random combo, but oh-so-good

The rest of the day was spent in class and then on the spin bike teaching a 45 minute ride. I thought my legs would be dead, but to my surprise, they got their second wind (and workout).

Needless to say, when it got to be 9pm, I was more than ready for bed! After getting some work done and emails sent/answered, I face planted right into my bed – it. felt. wonderful.

Now that my last long run is under my belt, it’s time to focus on the taper – not my favorite part …..

How do you stay focused during the taper and keep yourself from increasing milage again? 

Does it bug you to alter your original training plan?

I do feel a little annoyed I couldn’t get the 14 miler, but my plan is basically an outline – I know life is unpredictable, so the plan is always flexible – I definitely get in all the workouts, they may just be done at different times or on different days

Happy Tuesday!

~ L