I ran 8 early miles this morning…doing the first half with my run crew (gotta love hills) and the last few miles solo. I tell ya, hills seem to never get easier but some days I definitely feel stronger while doing them. Today was definitely one of those days.
So for those of you in the thick of marathon training (like myself) I thought it would be a great day to discuss how to find a balance during 26.2 training. I know…some of you are probably thinking “balance during training…what on earth is that”? But I have to say it can be done. Even if you are running crazy mileage day in and day out you can still have a life while training for 26.2. Here’s how.
1. Allow yourself at least 1 full, complete rest day. Yep…a day where you do absolutely nothing. No yoga, no cross training, no weight lifting. My rest day is always on Friday. It allows me to mentally and physically reset my brain and legs before Saturday’s long run. And yes, sometimes it sucks to take a rest day especially when you see others running but you gotta do it. It requires confidence. So DO it. Your body will thank you.
2. Don’t compare yourself to other runners. Comparison is the thief of joy. Keep your head down, trust your training and do your thing.
3. Find a training plan that allows for some cross training. Changing up your workouts will help keep your love for running going.
4. Celebrate…AFTER your long run! Yes, distance runners can have a little fun too. Now…Friday nights I’m basically a vegetable but after running a 20 miler early on Saturday morning, usually I will go home, rest and rehydrate. Then in the evenings after I charge my batteries I’ll allow myself some good times with friends.
5. And speaking of celebrate. Make sure you celebrate your small victories. Every mile and every step counts. Be proud of your training and how far you have come. No one…absolutely no one can take that away from you.
How do you manage to find balance during marathon training?
Though I’ve yet to train for a full marathon but during my half marathon training, I always take a full day off as well. Celebrating post long run is the best!
Indeed!
This is one of the things I love about your blog and lifestyle. You have such a healthy approach to balanced living.
Oh thanks so much lady…you as well!
Great advice Chelsea…hope training is going well – I’m all over #4 no matter how the race goes!!
Very nice! Best of luck friend!!
The rest day is certainly the top of my list, too. And I actually like Saturday evening after my long run to be the most relaxing thing ever… I’ll make spaghetti, watch a good movie, and get to bed early (I get up really early for my long run and am tired by 9 p.m.). I’ll do my hanging out with friends on Thursday and Friday nights.
Another thing that helps the balance is to have another project other than running, usually academic, so that I can feel productive during the weekend when the running has been done.
Oh yes I agree some days good food & good chill time is all you need!!
Yes for perfect weekend weather for running!!! Great tips for marathon training… good luck lady 🙂
How about “don’t look back on how fast you used to be…” UGH. I do that ALL THE TIME! I just need to train my body to get back there. One day. Some day… But yes, you got the right tips on here. And comparison really is the thief of joy.
Oh girl you will get back there! You have had a rough few months and that definitely will affect your training for sure.