Week 4 Recap

When I run long distances sometimes it seems as if I can feel the many microscopic muscle fibers in my legs tearing with each step. Maybe I'm just odd but the thought is pleasing to me. Sure the whole process is exhausting and somewhat painful but I remind myself this is what I want, this is what I came here all decked out in running attire for, this is why I will succeed. To quote Nike, "Just do it."

Sunday's 13 mile run was nothing short of a physically and mentally draining day. What started in the morning with a headache progressed into an upset stomach by mid-afternoon. My tight and tired body from the soccer game the day before didn't feel like cooperating at all. However my mind rules so I dragged my sick body to the trail for battle, and a battle it was. Once my legs woke up the run was no longer and issue of energy but an issue of where and when I'd have to share my lunch with the wildlife. After eight miles I thought it was over. I took ten seconds to breathe deep and relax, hoping this would fight off my stomach. The instant relief of walking instead of running also enticed me further to the dark side. I vehemently resisted the urges to quit and forged on. To my amazement I was able to finish without incident in a shade over two hours. I spent the rest of the evening with body aches and in a continual search for more layers and blankets to wear.

The earlier part of Week 4 was all roses for the most part. I found a decent 1/2 mile hill to run on speed days and did so in adequate times. I'm also beginning to remember how long my stride was ten years ago. Hill workouts really do help in that department. It seems like I can feel a difference in my running abilities each time I do a good speed session.

The totals for Week 4 are: 31.5 miles of running and 4800 yards of swimming in just over 7 hours. I'm pleased with the running efforts I putting out there, especially since this time I hit my mileage right-on with the plan. My swimming has been troubling due to a sore rotator cuff. I've purposely been keeping the workouts short and easy until I'm 100%. And then there is my biking or lack of it... That's another blog entry though.