I ran most of the summer without a plan. I had a vague plan to make sure I put in enough long runs to be able to finish the 10 miler, but that was about it. I only ran a few runs longer than 8 miles and speedwork was pretty much non-existant.
All I have left on the books for 2009 is a Turkey Trot 5k that goes right past my house. There’s an 8k that I’m eyeing because the start line is less than a mile from my house. It’s on Halloween weekend, though, which is crazy busy with my parents visiting, Halloween, and Shoo’s birthday. However, I try to run every race that is walking distance from my house and all the chocolate and sugar from Halloween should provide good carbo loading.
It seems to be too early in the year to be done with race season. I feel like I should have at least a 10K coming up or a half marathon or something. So far, I haven’t found anything that interests me that doesn’t conflict with other stuff in our lives, so I may be done racing longer distances until 2010. (Although if I can find a December race, I’ll have run a race in every month of 2009 except January and July.)
So, my plan for the rest of the year? I have no idea LOL. I’m definitely going to be adding some speedwork and hilly runs to prepare for the very hilly 5k. I’m also planning to bump up my long runs so that I do a 9-12 mile run each week at the very least. Right now, I can run strong for 6 miles. I may be tired (and near the puke threshold) if I race or run a tempo, but my legs can run strong for that distance. I’d like to build my running so that I can say that about a 10 mile run.
Why? Because 2010 will either be the year of another marathon or the year of multiple half marathons. I’m feeling the need for a “big” goal.
In actual running news, I ran an easy four miles yesterday and seven miles today. Nothing fast or exciting, just good strong, slow paced runs. Despite having run HARD on Sunday, both runs so far this week felt really good.
You are fortunate to have races near your house! You've been so consistent in keeping up with your runs, that I'm sure you'll be doing strong 10 miles in no time. Have fun deciding which races you plan to do!
Sounds like a good problem to have! Maybe, gasp, do something totally different as a change or add in – yoga, strength, pilates? I'm the worst at switching it up but it can make the run part even stronger!
You could switch the focus away form races and try to complete a certain mileage or something. Sometimes that helps provide the motivation to keep up the running through the end of the year.
For running without a plan, you've gotten in a lot of good runs and races! I'm feeling the same way about 2009 . . . feel like there should be something big left!
I'm feeling the same way about the fall season. When I read about everyone gearing up for races I feel like I should be too. Upping your long run sounds like a good plan, then you'll be ready for marathon training! 🙂
Sounds like a good plan. Looking forward to finding out what you decide for next year!
Can't wait to see what you end up doing. And I have to mention again how impressed I am at your continuous / successful running without a plan!
I am continuously impressed with all you've done without an official schedule/plan. Good luck with the hill and speedwork and keep it up! Looking forward to what you decide!
You're awesome with all the running you're doing w/o a plan.It's why I sign up for race after race – I'm a lost pup without one!
Isn't it SO much fun picking your race lineup when you don't have anything planned? I love those little throwaway race flyers — so full of possibility for fun and new sights and new PRs! Looking forward to reading about which ones you choose!
Sometimes it's good to take a break and let the body/mind rest from racing. 2010 will be better than ever!