Leaning in.
Dear Diary
7 weeks to CTM 42.2km
3 week to The Gun Run 21.1km
I had to remind myself that I was off ill for several weeks and that I'm still adjusting. Adjusting to the training and additional mileage. Allow myself the space to feel into the stiffness. It’s only been 2 weeks since I returned. Only 3 long runs. I'm OK and doing really well!
Tuesday 70mins/8km - finished 8.5k. It felt easier than last week but the pace was a little gentler.
Thursday 70mins/8km - finished 8.7k. I struggled towards the end but the pace was comfortable.
Saturday 18km - 2h33. SOLO! It was a tough run on my own!
'My heat was not in a good space for a long, solo run.'
It has been a tricky week. We had to deal with a very sensitive health matter in our workshop and had to say goodbye to a very special, well- loved and valued staff member. My hearts is very sore.
My head was not in a good space for a long, solo run. I felt unsure of myself and unsure of the distance. I was uncertain if I could get it done without my training group. We were out of town for the weekend so out of my regular routine and comfy bed. I had to get the mileage in on my own. Tomorrow simply wasn't an option. The weather was iffy and there was an ICY wind blowing that seemed to blow right through me. I was in pain with a tweaked glute muscle that was very uncomfortable and wouldn't let up. There was a lot of limping and hobbling along. The self-talk wasn't really working with my painful muscle. The wind was drowning out my music plus my ears were wrapped up against the wind. The hills felt endless and the scenery large, expansive and beautiful. I was blessed with big waves and rainbows as my reward. I knew I had to get it done. I hobbled. I limped. And got it done. I finished 18k and despite the aching muscle I felt super accomplished having completed the distance. The reality is that anything can happen on race day so it does help to deal with difficult conditions, adversity, life etc in training.
The breakthrough came after nearly 2hrs of running. Despite the spasmed muscle, I settled into a wonky, limpy rhythm and probably could have run on for a few more kms. I found my groove after 12km and I'm so happy that despite the odds against me, I completed the run. Go me!
'The breakthrough comes when you keep going'
'Exciting news!'
I got fitted out this week with a Rock Rabbit trail pack, 1.5l bladder and collapsible flask with straws. I love it! The trail pack is an xl custom fit in a lightweight and breathable navy/teal fabric. It is packed with spacious 7 pockets, 2 with toggles for snacks, chews, phone, tissues, jackets and carries a 1.5litre bladder with drinking tube in the back. The collapsible flasks and straws fit into the one pocket so I could sip on the energy drink without removing it from the pocket. There is even a little whistle if you find yourself in a pickle. I had a the xl trail pack taken in 3 cms on the shoulders for a better fit.
Their running belts are equally comfy and spacious as my phone, keys, labello, chews and collapsible flask fit in easily. They are one size fits all but I needed an extra 10cm added to the belt. Please mention this in the notes when purchasing so you won't be disappointed.
Rock Rabbit is a local brand that supports normal athletes like me and you and loves their product to fit well! They are based in Parklands.
And, here is a sweetener; use this code and get 20% off: Haylee20
In 7 weeks I am running the Cape Town Marathon 42.2km. Sjoe! It's starting to feel very real.
Top tips for the week:
The breakthrough comes after the breakdown. Don't give up when it gets hard!
A running journal helps you keep track of runs and pace and how you felt and is easy to refer back.
Intentions for the upcoming week:
Healthy eating is a top priority. This week wasn't great at all.
Objectives:
Walk in the shoes so they are ready for the longer runs.
Running Notes:
Here is my list for the rest of the year and some others you might like.
The Gun Run 21.1km September 18th Sunday (2) (entered)
Cape Town Marathon 42.2km October 16th Sunday (0) (entered)
Landmarks Half Marathon & 6km Fun Run/Walk 21.1km November 6th Sunday (0)
Winelands Marathon 21.1km November 26th Saturday (0) (entries open)
The Slave Route Challenge 21.1km March 2023 (1)
Cape Peninsula Marathon and Half Marathon 21.1km February 2023 (2)
Two Oceans Marathon 21.1km or 56km April 2023 (10)
SAFARI Half Marathon 21.1km May 2023 (1)
Fueling
32gi Sports Chews, Endure Sports Drink and Hydrate for running/snack fuel
HMT Vegan Protein - post run recovery. I loved chocolate for years and now love combining the strawberry and vanilla flavours. Takealot:
HMT L’Glutamine - amino acid replacement and before bed to aid recovery. This stuff is the bomb! Takealot:
How to get started
Spartan Harriers is running an 11-week running program that takes you from walking to running a 10k race! Many of the club runners started here. Join with this link: https://bit.ly/SHSumBeg22
Follow me on Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/hdugmore
Hasta la próxima
XOXO
Haylee
