Weekend Roundup

    The training program I'm using is the "First-Timer's Marathon Training Plan" which can be found in the Runner's World magazine July 2011 issue.  Over 16 weeks the schedule has the runner training 5 days a week gradually increasing the total mileage every week.  Sure I was able to run 15 miles last year, but that was last year and I would have to work to get back there.  Pacing yourself is important when running any distance.  Not only so you can finish, but also so you don't injure yourself or worse, especially in summer weather.

     The second week long run was a 12 miler on Saturday with the week's total at 28 miles.  Physically, my body seemed capable of getting through the run, but something more important is mental fatigue.  A difficult thing about running any distance you're not accustomed to is keeping focused.  At the start of the run, the mind is psyched and excited to go.  Sometime thereafter, the mind wanders towards other things -- work, laundry, if they'll ever seriously consider making a Gilmore Girls movie.  As time and the miles pass, be it from boredom, monotony, or both, a person's brain starts to wonder,"Where the ---- is the finish line?"  Listening to music helps a lot of people pass the time, but there are races that don't permit it.  Also, distracting your senses from your surroundings isn't always advisable or safe.  For example, running in the city or on neighborhood streets it's important to be aware of car traffic.  I also feel that running without music serves two  important purposes.  First, it strengthens one's focus and determination.  Second, as meditation or a quiet night's sleep does, a good run can ease stress and clear a person's head .

     As I've mentioned before, another good way to pass the miles is by running with other people.  Whether with a friend, a group, or even on your own where there are other people running, the atmosphere changes and eliminates the desolation of a long run.  Saturday, as my mind started to grow tired, just being around the many runners who had also devoted the early morning for a run kept me going.  Thank you to all the running groups who made my run and dozens of other's so enjoyable.  Listed below are just a few groups I remember.

Here is an article from Runner's World magazine about brain fatigue.     

     Join a group, grab a friend, or venture out on your own, but get out there and get active.  Have a great week of running everyone!

Chicago Area Runners Association
Chicago Endurance Sports
Elijah Running Club
Team To End AIDS