Overview:
Looks like the die has been cast, and I’m officially registered for this year’s Marine Corps Marathon. I will admit that hitting the ‘register’ button was an impromptu decision that took place around 1 or 2 am. Although I knew nothing about this marathon at the time of registering, many folks have said that I should give it a shot.
Since I alway complain about the temperatures while training for fall marathons during the summer, this meme is perfect for me.
Training:
While I was excited to start my training plan, my body had other plans because I caught a bit of a head cold on Tuesday/Wednesday. Fortunately, it wasn’t too bad, and I think it’s going away. I will say this Frendadol Forte, which I call “Fernando”, from Spain has worked wonders for my head cold.
Since this was my first week training, I don’t think is a lot to report on. For me, the first week of marathon training is just getting into the flow of things. Over all this week’s plan was a few 3 mile runs with a 6 mile “long run”
Fortunately for me, I live pretty close to Sligo Creek Trail, which is about 10.5 miles in length. Overall, the trail/path is nice; however, portions of the trial cross busy streets and enter residential areas. I will be honest and say that I have a concern (or two) about the residential areas that the trial crosses. A couple of my fears:
Some residents assuming that I’m trying to break into houses or cars.
Police stopping me because I ‘fit the description’ of someone else.
So far, neither of these things have happened, but I have to admit that they do stay on my mind while running.
LONG RUN CHRONICLES:
While this week’s long run was only 6 miles, it felt nice running a 3+ mile distance. Although I have completed multiple half and full marathons, I want to started from scratch for my Marine Corps Marathon training. According to the Runner’s World’s Training Pace Calculator, my long runs should be completed within a 12:04 – 13:32 min/mi pace.
However, this pace felt really slow for me while doing my long run. I guess that I should see if I’ll still think the pace is too slow once I start hitting 13+ mile long runs. For now, I’ll stick with the this pace and enjoy running (technically jogging) in nature.
RUNCHAT SCAVENGER HUNT:
Since running (for me) is about accomplishing things. I’m glad that my marathon training will overlap with the Runchat’s yearly scavenger hunt.
Goals for the week:
-Stay consistent. 😉
-Start incorporating strength training into my marathon training. Our apt building has a very basic gym, so I do not have any excuses for not doing any weight training.
-Look up some running clubs and organizations in the area. I wonder if this area has something similar to New York Road Runners with a schedule of local races.