October 3, 2013

Marathon Training Week 15- Hello, taper time!

I can't believe another week is almost over. The time is flying, for real. I'm working on getting better organized, and I have gotten some things I needed too out of the way (checked off taking my test and paying some bills!).  Last week, week 15 of my training, started the official taper for my marathon. I can't believe it's taper time already and that race day is so soon.  I pretty much freak out a few times a day about it now. 

marathon-training-taper

The Road to 26.2 -Marathon Training Week 15
Runs:
Short runs: My training group went back to some light speedwork with mile repeats at MRP (marathon race pace) this week. It's crazy how after running lots of slower, longer miles my supposed race pace feels fast. I definitely need to up the stretching and foamrolling now.  I haven't been running as often because I'm really anxious about getting hurt. I did some crossfit and strength training (light on the legs) and am trying not to worry. My training group coach says that running less during taper isn't going to make you slower or lose fitness-all the work is pretty much done by now.  

Long Run- Saturday was a fairly flat 15 miles.  I was taking it easy, pace-wise, because there is no need to push it now. I was especially wary because of a few minor injuries in my training group. The fifteen miles felt long, maybe because I couldn't get into the running zone. The weather was cooler and overall it was a nice run.  I didn't feel super sore or tight the next day either. 

What was awesome last week:   I have been doing pretty good about eating more protein to stay full and to make sure that my snacks and running nutrition is purposeful as fuel.  I need to fuel my body to run miles and also need to make sure I'm eating big meals and snacks with whole foods as the taper continues.  

What I need to work on this week: Staying calm! I'm freaking out that as of today I'm be running a marathon in 9 days. NINE DAYS! I need to stay as stress-free as possible and block out all the thoughts rushing through my brain saying "you can't do it", "you're not ready", and "you're not going to finish". My coach says this anxiety is expected and to take a deep breathe and think about how excited race day will be and find things to occupy my time and mind.  

As I try to get out of the funk I mentioned I was in and get more centered, I attended an event called "Om Out and Play" through the local Lululemon store and a local yoga studio.  It was a beautiful outdoor yoga class run by the yoga studio I used to go regularly a couple years of ago which focuses on power yoga and vinyasa flow styled yoga. It was wonderful to focus on being mindful and channelling the positive energy of all the yogis. Being outside along the water at the Baltimore Museum of Industry and feeling the cool breeze on my face as I moved through the poses was an amazing feeling.   They also had a live band playing  music during the practice, which was a nice touch. 


baltimore-yoga

I thought the flow was a little fast if you were a yoga newbie, but overall it was a great yoga class. Afterwards they had gelato (I had a dairy-free dark chocolate flavor!), smoothies, coconut water, and even some beer from local vendors around the city. The event was definitely a reminder that I need more yoga in my life.  

Have any advice on tapering for a big race? Ever practiced yoga outside?


8 comments:

  1. Baltimore will be so fun to run through! Ah...I want my taper!

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  2. I can't believe how soon it is!!!!!! Also, if you need someone to join you for a taper run....or someone to refuel with... I'm your girl. Slash we really have to stop saying we're going to do this and actually do it. For real.

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  3. So exciting! Only nine days! I would be freakin' out a little too! Happy trails! xo

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  4. Oh wow! Sounds exciting! I just singed up for my first half and it isn't until May. I have no taper advise, but it sounds like the yoga is a great choice!
    I've been doing some yoga at home. I'm not the most bendy person, so I think I will stick with the solo yoga in the comfort of my own home!
    haha!
    Good Luck-You'll have a great run!

    Thanks for linking up for Fit & Fabulous Friday! last week!
    Hope to see you again!

    Michelle

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  5. You are going to do so awesome. Taper can be hard but you WILL get through it. the nerves will turn into excitement and it's a great feeling!!! Keep your chin up and focus- you've got this!

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  6. I have zero advice here, but taking cues from you to apply to my first half coming up!! Ahh!!

    Just gotta stay positive and no matter what, you're going to do it, right? No backing out now, so best to go in with a positive happy attitude (note to self) and rock it! :)

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  7. You're going to rock the marathon! I joined a Lululemon outdoor event last weekend. It was amazing! I shared the photos with my Fitness Friday post :)

    Thanks for linking up!

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  8. Oh wow! Only a couple of days now!
    So excited for you! I am sure you will rock it and make sure to try and savor every moment!
    So cool and can't wait to read the race report!

    Chris
    http://www.mavrocatstrength.com

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