You knew it was coming, right? I’ve finished my major goals for the first half of the year and apparently I’m feeling blasé about the fact that I have 6 half marathons in 6 days in 6 states in September. Eh, what’s another state when I’ve already done 5 in 5 two times? Ahem.
I’m joining Amanda from Running with Spoons again for some thinking out loud. I apologize in advance for the minimal pictures and maximum stream of consciousness.
So, if you are my friend on Facebook or like my Facebook page, you’ve heard whispers of a potential new goal. Yes, the word “Ultra” has been thrown around a few times.
No, I’m not looking at some crazy treks through the mountains with killer elevation. Nope, I can’t even tell you how many things are wrong with THAT concept (roots, darkness, bears, elevation, etc.) Instead, I’m starting to look around for a TIMED ultra or loops of a reasonable length and difficulty. Something like this:
Meanwhile, back at the ranch…
My closet had a “come to Jesus” chat with me the other day. As in, I nearly emptied the darn thing looking for clothes that actually fit well. Ugh. Apparently running long and slow means my body gets really good at hanging on to every.single.calorie. So, while an ultra is in the future (really, just a question of when and whether I start small or do my usual “Go Big”, ahem), I have other priorities right now.
1. I need to get back to my usual size. I don’t generally care what the scale says, but I do care that my shorts aren’t fitting. I mean, I love the Happy Girl and have enough to wear a different one every day for more days than I care to admit, but sometimes it’s nice to wear something I wouldn’t run in. Project “Make Shopping Optional” started yesterday with more veggies, less cheese, and some weight lifting in addition to cardio. I’m hoping to #wycwyc my way back into my jeans.
2. Find my speed. I’ve run long and slow for so long that my legs have forgotten how to turn over. So, until official Marine Corps Marathon Training starts in a few weeks, I’ll be picking up the pace with fartleks and intervals, as well as running every hill in the DC area.
3. Continue to get enough sleep. About a week ago, I started going to bed at 11 pm, even if there was still stuff that “needed” doing. While there have been a few moments of “OMG, I’m so behind”, I’m feeling so much better than I was when an after midnight bedtime was a regular occurrence.
4. Arrive at the start of MCM training ready and raring to go (and with a plan that incorporates the 6 half marathons and Ragnar DC).
Want to join me at the Fit Foodie 5K, where I’ll be attempting to run my fastest 5k in a few years? I’m giving away two sets of two tickets!
[Tweet “Want to run the @FitFoodieRun Virginia race? Enter this giveaway! #runeatdrink”]
OK if you #wycwyc into yer jeans Ill join you as I wanna #wycwyc my way to being a less….sucktastic yogi.
I’m sure your sucktastic yogi is better than my yogi. ;o)
I would take my mom
I say go for the ultra! And i’m totally with you on the clothes not fitting. My body does not like long distance and does not like to take it off either!! I started Isagenix to try and help with it. I’ve been hearing a lot of athletes using it and having great results with being able to maintain a good weight while training!
You’ll have to tell me more about that. Is it working for you?
It is working for me. It’s a whole nutrition system. The weight loss portion consists of 2 shakes a day with real food for dinner and snacks. Two shakes until you meet your weight loss goals. Also consists of cleansing days which are my favorite part. I’ve lost about 6 lbs and 11 inches all over since I started a month ago. I have more energy and sleep better. I have a ton more info on it if you want to learn more.
My run buddy! Or maybe the hubby!
I’m currently dealing with some snug pants issues myself! But it always happens to me after the winter when my legs gain a lot more muscle from snowboarding. It’s a small price to pay to be able to do what we love, but yeah… it’s definitely nice to have those breaks to get back on track.
wow – 6 marathons in 6 days??? you inspire and impress me… can’t wait for Fit Foodie!
Oops, left out an important word there – HALF marathons. I’m crazy, but not THAT crazy LOL.
Just a tip (I’m sure you’re aware of) from someone struggling to get back to her pre-marathon weight of a month ago. Along with the veggies up your protein intake. It will keep you fuller longer and curb carb cravings. I try and get a minimum of 30g at each meal and this helps tremendously. No other gimmicks. I do count my calories in though. If you have a snack have it higher in protein (apple/almonds) then you normally would so you stay fuller. As I said I’m sure you know this but this is what I’m doing instead of just fruits and vegetables for snacks. They don’t always keep me full so I eat more and never lose. Plus it will get you race ready for MCM!!
Thanks for the suggestion. I’m trying to add more healthy fats too.
So excited for Fit Foodie! See you there!
It’s a fun race with super yummy food!
Sleeping can certainly be a challenge. I have found that I love speedwork and short distances, so no marathons or full ironmans on my calendar anytime soon. Maybe someday. Good luck getting ramped up for your training!
I love the occasional short, fast run. I need to keep those in my training this time.
Way to crush those goals in 6 months. No ultras for this gal. I’ve got feet issues, and they much prefer the shorter distances. I’ll get that one marathon in this year–I’ve got a big goal still to crush. After that? We’ll see.
I finally solved my feet issues when I started running in Altras. They totally rock for me.
6 races in 6 days and you’re thinking about an ultra of sorts?! Girl, you’re a rock star!
Nah, I’m just crazy LOL.
Yes yes yes do an ultra! Lol. I mean, you know, if you WANT too. 😀 And boo Sleep. We have ever been arch enemies. Someday I’ll win that vixen over.
I gotta tell you – 7 hours every night versus 6 is HUGE. I’m so much more in command of life…
How great you’ve rocked your goals for the first half of the year! Timed ultra? Hey why not?
Thanks. Everyone has to have a goal, right???
I’m with you on the long distances. I totally gained weight marathon training, lol.
Sometimes I feel like I need to go back to sub 20 mile weeks if I ever want to get back to my normal weight.
That’s so awesome! Ultra runners are absolutely a different breed of fabulous. Best of luck to you in your training and in crushing your goals!
Or different breed of crazy. ;o)
You are inspiring!! An ultra would be challenging but so amazing. I’m sure you’ll kill it
Thanks! I like the idea of timed because I can just keep moving at whatever pace without having to worry about being swept.
I would bring my mom! we have run a couple races together now! and live in MD
Oh lady I feel ya! Running those long distances really messes with my body too! Good for you for recognizing it and changing up your routine.
So far, seeing no results, but hopefully things will start fitting better soon.
I really like timed events. It’s a little bit of a different focus from speed to pace. Nice way to change things up a bit. Loops? My husband is the king of small loop races. ha! I’ve had fastest 5k on my mind a lot lately.
Ha, he should come run a Mainly Marathons race. He’d love them.
That is a lot of distance in a few days! Definitely pack a foam roller to take with you and stay hydrated.
I’d bring my husband!
I would love to win. 🙂
I would love to do this race!