I have read on several blogs where the runner did a long run but broke it up? Does that really count as a long run? In my mind no, but to each their own. They got it done and that is all that matters. But what is a long run to you? Anything over a 5k distance or maybe you have to hit double digits in order to count it as a long run?
The other day I mentioned that I was feeling sluggish during my runs. I would still manage to get 5-7 miles in, but I did not feel great while running it. I felt like it was something I needed to get done since I am marathon training and all. I just wasn’t enjoying it like I usually do. It felt like more of a chore, so I thought it was time to take a break
After taking a much needed rest day, I tried running in another location to change things up. I even downloaded an audio book. I think sometimes I get too into the story of the book that I do not end up running the pace I normally do when I listen to music. I ended with 7 miles and I thought that was good enough. After coming home, eating lunch, and doing some chores around the house, I thought it was too beautiful out for February to spend it inside so off I went on another run. I knew I wasn’t going to go as far as I did earlier so I thought I would incorporate some speed work into my run. I did a total of 4 miles and my average pace was just under 8 minutes per mile. My legs felt fresh and I listened to my music playlist the whole time. I think music really does help with pace.
After arriving home, I texted a friend and told her about my runs I completed. That both runs added up to be a long run. She said she completed 6 miles that day but wasn’t sure if that would be considered a long run. Since she is training for a half, I surely would count 6 miles as a long run, as that it about half the distance her race is. For training for a full marathon, I would consider a double digit run as a long run. For me, I wouldn’t call my two runs as my long run, but rather just getting in the miles I suppose. However, I felt a lot better doing that 4 mile run at a fast pace opposed to some of my longer runs I completed recently at a much slower pace.
What are your thoughts? -L