As I've gotten older, I've learned something about myself: I'm not good at the process.
For example, I love being on stage. I like the bright stage lights, the rush of nervousness, hearing an audience respond to me. What I don't like? Rehearsing.
I love to play the piano. But I'm not very good at it. Why? Because I hate practicing.
And now? I love races. I love the energy, the comraderie, the t-shirts and bling. Can you guess what I don't love? Training.
I've been running almost two years. In those two years, I've been prepared for exactly one race. And it was last week.
It was a really nice feeling. I got a PR, had fun, and didn't feel like I was going to die at the finish line.
And that's when I had to admit it to myself: I've been surviving my races. And I want to thrive.
I've been so bad at my training and consistency that I've been thinking about sticking with shorter distances and putting off any more halfs and my first full for a year or two.
But then I think of the runner's high. I think of the thrill in the air before a long distance race, the energy of the crowd bouncing on their toes to keep their legs warm. I think of the journey, and I want it.
It's going to take some tweaking. I've realized that the traditional Tues/Thurs/long weekend run doesn't work for me. This week, I'm going to start figuring out what does.
It's going to take time. And that's a commitment that falls not only on me, but my family, too. Are we all ready for me to start seriously working towards 26.2?
It's going to take goals, and not just the end result goal. It's going to be eating right, getting enough rest, and going in the right order--when I started this wild ride, I started with a half marathon and worked my way down. I need to hop off the backwards train, don't you think?
And as we all know well, it's going to take heart. A race is not run on legs alone.
It's time to thrive, not survive.
Question of the day: what have you been phoning in? Is there somewhere in your life that could benefit more preparation?
Ha, my very first race ever was a half marathon that I was woefully unprepared for. Guess I did it backwards too! I think pointing out that it's not just your commitment but your family's too is pretty on target. I've been training *enough* for my races, but not putting in the strength work and the speed work to really get where I want to be. So, that's my commitment this summer too. Focus on nutrition, strength and speed. Good luck to us both!
ReplyDeleteGood luck indeed! Good goals for the summer!
DeleteI am in survival mode right now. Someday maybe I will be thriving, but I need to figure out how to do just that...
ReplyDeleteIt can be hard! I think you're doing a great job.
DeleteGood luck!! My first race was a half marathon... and right now I'm just in survival mode, too, but I'm injured (I think) so i've been taking it easy. :(
ReplyDeleteBoo! Hope that hamstring feels better soon!
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