Early Summer Training: Houston Style

Is it time for Seattle yet!?

Unfortunately not, as I still have 3 weeks to go before racing in 55-60ish temps in the Pacific Northwest. Something to look forward to, even if I am a cold-weather wuss! Maybe it's the gradual mileage increase, but I can feel the heat and humidity setting in. Some may complain about the conditions; but my objective is to accept it as it is-if I hydrate properly-this can make for some good training (and a slight sense of toughness!).

I put in about 47 miles this week, on several different surfaces: road, track, treadmill, and a workout on the Oak Ridge High football field. The first three of course are staples, and the football field provided a sunny and slightly steamy novelty. Wednesday night I did a Kenyan- style workout (hence my FB post) consisting of diagonally running at a near-sprint across the football field and jogging the sidelines. The idea was not mileage or time but running relaxed, fast, and in good form. The grass provided some extra cushioning as well. While this turned out to not be the easiest thing I've ever done, it was kind of fun to just run around for a while (and put the football players running sprints to shame in the process;)). I finished Wednesday's training drenched with about 10 miles total for the day.

Yesterday was long run Saturday. I met Bill and Melissa for a planned 18. PowerBar hydration in hand we ran a nice easy loop then dropped off Melissa for work (can you drop someone off on foot??) before starting the second loop. Despite the heat, this workout went pretty well, with a 3-mile descent to about a 6:50 pace in a run that otherwise averaged about a 7:50 pace. It felt powerful to be able to take up the pace by a minute at the end of some solid mileage. We underestimated the route a bit, and I ended coming in at about 19.25 miles for the morning. When all said and done, my quads were quite tired! I realized when I took in my Recovery fluids that I had gone in excess of 8 miles without taking in any additional fuel. I only took in 2 gels during a two and a half hour run. I think I have a good pre-and post run nutrition plan established for the time being, however, I need to add a little more during the run. I guess I'm not very "fuel efficient".

Mentally, putting in almost 20 miles makes me feel increasingly ready to take on the marathon. I have one more week of harder training before beginning my taper. The express marathon training program continues on!