Time for a Plan

For the past many months my running has been sub-par.  I've run, I've even run a couple half marathons, but I've run without a plan.  Why does that matter?  When I don't have a plan and I miss a day, it's not a big deal.  I didn't miss a "planned" run.  This lack of a plan has resulted in very low mileage for this year.

 

I do have valid reasons for much of this.  In September, my Dad went into the hospital.  In October, Les lost his job.  In November, I ran the Santa Barbara marathon very unprepared.  I had followed a training plan, but missed many long runs.  Since then, I've had a lot of obstacles, but it's time for a change!

Starting on Sunday, I will be following my marathon training plan again.  No, I am not signed up for a marathon and I don't plan on running anything longer than a half marathon (13.1)  But I know I benefited from focused daily runs - easy, hills, tempo, strides, marathon pace, and long runs.  I will still need to be flexible when we are traveling, but I always know enough days in advance to move my rest day around if necessary.

I still remember crossing the finish line of my first marathon.  The sense of accomplishment was amazing!  It's time to feel amazing again!