It's normal to feel "off" during the taper. As you reduce your mileage before a race, you have time to obsess over every stiff joint and unfamiliar sensation. And tapering can make you feel weak, creating anxiety that can lead to an upset stomach. Think of each symptom as a sign that your body is recovering and preparing to race. Fill your new found free time with nonrunning activities that allow you to rest your body while keeping your mind occupied.
So far this week my running has been well below average, I've been really slow. I'm also trying to not obsess over this ache in my right knee... this is actually a new pain, I've had pain in my left knee, but not the right. Oh the mind games of marathon training!
Not sure about any new found free time, other than sleeping until 6:30.
Umm can I be like you when I grow up? Please :) lol
ReplyDeleteNah, you're just gonna be your wonderful self.
DeleteYes, my left knee started hurting a couple of months ago out of the blue. It had NEVER been my left leg in the past. Always the right. Unfortunately for me, the pain stuck around & is busting my groove. I have one more long run before the marathon. It will be this Sunday.....21 miles. I've never gone that far before healthy, mjch less injured. I am so nervous about it. Looking forward to taper time so my knee can have a rest. Also fearing taper time because I won't be running. I plan on cross training 6 days a week (vs the 3 days a week I do now) during the taper. Hope it helps me in some way, shape or form. It works for the half marathons, but 26 is so different than 13.
ReplyDeleteI took a lot more walk breaks on my 22 miler and that paid off. I actually found myself thinking at mile 21, "I have 5 more miles in me." I hope that's the case next weekend! The long runs can really be torture.
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