I know I mentioned this before but I think this year was all about me finding balance
I know cross training is a good thing, but whenever I did classes, I didn't do a run that day. On the other hand, on days I did run, I did feel much stronger and could tell that it makes a difference in my runs so I guess maybe it comes down to the quality of the run, not quantity.
Also, another thing that I mentioned before, is not to put so much pressure on myself. When I do, it reflects in my run and I do not perform the way I'd hope to.
A perfect example is Chicago. In the back of my head my hope was to qualify for Boston, but if I did not, I knew that there would be other races and other opportunities to try again. Now that I qualified, I feel like all my races from here on out can be pressure free because I already proved to myself what I wanted to do and succeeded. So now I can just run for fun and remember why I do to begin with, for enjoyment. -L
A perfect example is Chicago. In the back of my head my hope was to qualify for Boston, but if I did not, I knew that there would be other races and other opportunities to try again. Now that I qualified, I feel like all my races from here on out can be pressure free because I already proved to myself what I wanted to do and succeeded. So now I can just run for fun and remember why I do to begin with, for enjoyment. -L
I'm glad you got the Boston monkey off your back! And in Chicago no less!
ReplyDeleteThank you! Yes, it is a good feeling.
ReplyDeleteCongrats again for that BQ and yes running for fun is what it's all about right?!
ReplyDeleteExactly!
DeleteI can be a total running head case, so I understand what you mean. Over the years, I've changed the "why I run" answer quite a bit. Your Chicago run was amazing - one of those where everything goes right. So awesome! And great job finding your balance :)
ReplyDeleteThanks! My answers used to always change too on why I run. But lately it as been staying the same.....for fun!
DeleteI am glad you feel you are accomplished and can relax and enjoy your races! That is one of the great things about a PR. You earned the right to just go with the flow for a bit!
ReplyDeleteI hope I can. Easier said then done. We will see.
DeleteSometimes we really do need to take a step back and remember that first & foremost, running should be FUN!
ReplyDeleteOf course sometimes it will suck, but if you're always dreading your runs, something has to change.
Yep. I can't tell you how many runs I have taken lately to run just because. I listen to my podcast and just run. It has been much slower than I am used to and I am totally fine with that.
DeleteI have put pressure on myself in the past, and the races weren't as fun. No pressure means I can soak everything in and enjoy it. I remember how fun my first half marathon was because the only goal I had was finish.
ReplyDeleteI think running with others takes the pressure off too. Makes it more enjoyable.
DeleteSo great that you can just focus on Boston! I won't lie, I'd still like to do that...
ReplyDeleteWell 2018 seems like so long away, but time really does fly by.
DeleteYes! I love it when I can back off the competitive and just run for running's sake! ~Jessica Marie @ flashfittrainer.com
ReplyDeleteMy next race coming up, I plan to do that.
DeleteThere is such joy in remembering why we run in the first place! Glad you found your happy place this year.
ReplyDeleteI totally understand the internal pressure - very glad you are through with that regarding Boston now! And cross training - I used to do that, and I was a stronger runner back then. You are making me reconsider adding it back in, for real.
ReplyDeleteIts important to often take a step back and do some self reflection. There's nothing wrong with refocusing on an activity and focusing more on having fun instead of meeting specific goals.
ReplyDeleteWhen the pressure is off, its all fun from there ;)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on Boston! Relaxing after meeting your goal is a great way to spend the holidays!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful accomplishment to BQ at Chicago!!! I completely agree with you on quality versus quantity, and on how I don't run on cross training days but find my runs are better on other days. Mixing up the routine makes such a difference both mentally and physically. Happy holidays and cheers to an amazing running year!!!
ReplyDeleteYay for you on Boston!
ReplyDeleteThanks Marsha!
DeleteSo much truth is this!!!! I have learned (over and over) that I'm more of a runner than a racer. I'd love to PR every race and knock a good 10 minutes off my finish time for my 13.1's (AND my 26.2's LOL).....but when I start a race with my finish time in mind, almost always it becomes a train wreck. I lose so much focus on enjoying the event, that it sabotages the race for me (not always, but most of the time).Something I'm gonna focus on for 2017 is to just enjoy the experience...because then, I believe, the finish times will take care of themselves. Congrats on the BQ!!!!!
ReplyDeleteVictory lap!
ReplyDeleteSo excited you can focus on Boston! I am excited for you!!
ReplyDeleteI like group fitness classes too even though it takes some time away from running. I cannot wait to be healthy enough to go back to Orange Theory.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the BQ! Running pressure-free is great!
ReplyDelete