Week 5

So, I've registered for a marathon in March (a week before my birthday). I know, I'm not sure what I was thinking either... I'm training with some girls from work, so at least there are others suffering along with me!

So, we are almost done with week 5 now - this weekend's long run is 10 miles - the first one in double digits. We've found a 16 week training program online and sticking to it, for the most part. I'm motivated more by the fear of pain than anything else... I know that consistency is the key.

Atlanta is super hilly and looking at the race course for the marathon - OUCH. So while last week in Alameda was good cause the runs were flat and relatively easy - I've got to do the hills. And they are kicking my butt. Usually after 4 weeks of training I can feel myself getting stronger up hills, but not this time around. The only thing I can note as improvement is that I recover quickly form the runs - especially the long ones. No residual soreness the day after. I'm also to talk on the flats now... I'm running with 2 talkers. They know that I don't talk, but I do sometimes feel obligated to talk a little bit, but it's always a struggle for me. I know I'm supposed to be running at conversation pace, but in the last few years no pace but walking is conversation pace (ack... I'm getting older!!)

I currently have 2 niggles - a semi shin splint in my left leg and a very tight right hip that doesn't seem to want to loosen up despite my stretching (IT band stretching, quad and hip flexor stretching - nothing's quite getting it). I've scheduled a sports massage for this Sunday (Christmas present from my brother and his wife, awesome!!), so I'm hoping that will help a bit. I've also noticed that my left ankle is super weak in the mornings - I an't put full weight on it with the first step, so Im trying to focus on ankle exercises and calf raises to strengthen that general area. I fell like that may be related to my shin splint as well.

My target for the race is 10-11 minute miles, so between 4 1/2 to 5 hours. I really want to be closer to 4 1/2 than to 5, if its all the same to anyone else.

New equipment I've bought since I started training: a fuel belt (Amphipod, 2 bottle) and 2 sports bras (still trying to find one that doesn't chafe after mile 8!) That's a pretty modest consumption pattern for me actually - however - with the 2 half marathons that I did in October and November I also bought a running skirt (not convinced on it, especially in the WINTER!), 2 pairs shorts (still looking for the holy grail of shorts), 3 tech t-shirts, and a hand held amphipod water bottle (which I liked a lot more than I anticipated).

I joined the Atlanta Triathlon Club this week as well, but haven't started training with them yet. The swimming and spinning will be good cross-training for sure.