First “training” run
Well, not actually my first “training” run, but it was my first run directed and scheduled by my coach. It was a great run. Normally, if I had run today (which is questionable given the 21 miles on Sunday), I would have just gone out and done my hour-long run to Battery Park. Instead, I warmed up for 2 miles at about an 8:00 pace, then ran 8 miles at 7:00, then ran an 8:00 mile as a cool-down. The distances certainly weren’t exact, but there are some mile markers along the West Side path that I was able to use as a general guide. Assuming the markers are correct, most of my main set miles were 7:00’s, though one or two were closer to 6:30’s. I felt great and was able to keep the pace pretty steady for the entire 8 miles. I don’t think I could have kept it up for 26, but running 8 was certainly encouraging. Also, I stopped and drank when I could, but there aren’t that many water fountains, so that will be different (in a good way) on raceday.
My legs are pretty sore and tight, but I’ve been trying to ice and stretch regularly. I think that I’ll just be tight and sore for most of the next 4 weeks. I’ll just try to keep it under control as best I can.
Run – October 10
Time: 1:20:04
Distance: ~11 miles
Average Heart Rate: 157
Course: West Side Highway North to low 80’s
Conditions: beautiful morning, perfect conditions