What was I thinking back on New Year’s Eve when I decided to sign up to run a half marathon? Oh, yeah, I was bored! Ha! Boredom and me are not a good combination! But, I’m not one to quit, so I need to wrap my head around the fact that in 9 days, I’ll be in Ottawa running my second half marathon.
As race day approaches, some panic has definitely set in. Unlike two years ago, my body is not cooperating with training. It didn’t help that spring was cold and rainy. I never seemed to find the time/motivation to go running until race day was less than a month away. I’d do my usual training which involved a lot of weights and cardio, but no actual running.
Stretching is essential!
So as soon as the weather warmed up, I started running. It wasn’t pretty. I’d limp along, trying to ignore my body screaming at me! My quads and hamstrings are very tight. Navigating stairs is not easy. My knees swell up for no reason. So, I stretch. Boy, do I ever stretch. I also did some yin yoga which did wonders for my tight muscles. Yet, in spite of all these little issues, I’m running better than I was two years ago. Faster, longer distances. What gives? Experience? Stubbornness?
As race day neared, I panicked and told my trainer, Mathieu, that I needed a detailed training plan. So, he wrote one out. As usual, he has given me great advice and encouragement. I’m following his advice to the letter.
The right kind of training and rest
The training is a combination of increasing my running time, resting, doing some light weight training, running intervals and yoga. Yoga is an essential component in my training. Not only does it allow me to stretch my very sore legs, it also relaxes me and literally allows me to breathe through the stress of training.
The biggest difference between this race and the last one is that I’ll be running alone. Two years ago, there was a large contingent from my gym, Le Fitness Loft. Having my buddies and trainer with me gave me confidence. This time, it’ll be just little old me. It will be a very different race. Unlike the trip down memory lane, which was my first half marathon, this time it’s about focus. I’ll repeat my new favourite mantra: my race, my pace. And, I’ll have my running playlist fired up. Listening to the right music makes a huge difference to my workouts.
An RX1 Nation race before the half marathon
Training for the half marathon is hard enough, but I like to keep things interesting so, I also have an RX1 Nation race in two days! I think I might be completely bonkers! haha!! Why train for one race, when you can train for 2? Mat assures me that I’m able to do both races. I trust him, so here I go!
So much gratitude
At the end of the day, however, it’s not just about the running. It’s about gratitude. I’m incredibly grateful to be able to do these races. I’ll think about my fitness journey as I make way through the race course. I know that running through my old neighbourhood will bring me back. Yes, and it will remind me of how far I’ve come from a completely sedentary woman to a 55 year old who runs half marathons and RX1 races. Life is good! Keep calm and run on.
http://www.runottawa.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/half_marathon_2018_en.pdf
http://rx1nation.com/montreal-2018.php
