After much thinking, crying, talking to my Mom and Todd, and more crying, I decided NOT to run the marathon next Monday. My leg was really hurting after my 2 mi run last week and I don't think it's miraculously going to get better in such a short period of time. I was hoping within a few days it would feel better but it didn't so I think the smartest, although hardest, thing to do is to not run and start getting my leg to feel better. If I did run it, I think that one of two things would happen: 1) I'd start the race and have to drop out or 2) finish in a terrible time. In both cases, my leg would hurt worse than it does now and I'd be super disappointed in my finish, or lack thereof. I'm going to defer my entry for next year so even though I'll lose my entry fee, my qualifying time will still be good for 2011. Although I'm not sure if I'd be up to another training cycling during the cold winter months, I'd like to at least have the option.
Another issue I was struggling with was whether Todd & I should still go to Boston. I know from last year that marathon weekend in Boston is just that, it's all about the marathon. It would be very hard to be there knowing I should be running and trained just as hard as everyone else but couldn't compete. On the other hand, Todd & I have already paid for our airfare, one night of our hotel, Red Sox tickets, and Duck Tour tickets. This was also suppose to be a mini vacation for us and I would feel bad telling Todd we weren't going to go just because I'd be upset being around the marathon. So, we decided to still go and enjoy our time in Boston, I just won't be running 26.2 mi while I'm there. The bonus of not running the marathon: I'll be able to stay up later at night and partake in a few beers when we tour Sam Adams!
So what are my plans running and exercising wise? I plan on taking at least 8-12 weeks off from running. I think my body really needs the rest from the constant wear & tear from pounding the treadmill & pavement. This will still give me 6-8 weeks to get ready for Hood to Coast. Hood to Coast will be different from my marathon training in that I really don't need to do any super long runs since the legs I will run of the relay will be any where from 3-7 miles. I will continue to cross train because I obviously can't give up working out. I might even try to take some spinning classes in addition to the one I teach as well as doing some Body Pump classes. Last year I bought the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred DVD but have failed to do it once and I've been hearing good things about it so I'm hoping to throw that in the mix. One more thing I also might try and do so I can work towards something and have a goal is the 100 Push up Challenge. It's a 6 week training program that works you up to doing 100 consecutive push ups.
I will also continue posting my weekly recap with my workouts, if not for you guys, then for myself so I can see what I've been doing. I don't have any other races of significant distance planned for 2010 besides HTC so I might do a few 5Ks in the fall....which will seem like a sprint after doing half and full marathons the past few years. For those of you that follow my blog to see my marathon training, bear with me for the next couple months as my focus shifts a little bit and I don't talk about running as much.
I will break 3:30 someday in the marathon, it just won't be next week in Boston.
5 comments:
wow that must have been one of the hardest decisions! but it's VERY smart of you to put your body and health before a race. yes boston will still be here next year and the year after.
i'm really glad your still taking your trip because, even though being around the marathon will be tough, you need to have a good time. and this would be a great way to take care of yourself and enjoy life :)
sending good vibes your way!! and maybe we can still meet up?!
My eyes have welled up with tears for you! I know how hard you have worked and trained for this and I can only imagine the heartbreak this decision has caused for you. Think of the good in this--you are making a good decision based on the health of your leg and all of this training so far has been great for your cardiovascular health and overall fitness.
You are such an inspiration, even in making this decision. I can't run more than a mile at a time and when I do, I think of you running 26 miles at one time! As I'm huffing and puffing, legs burning and feeling like I'm going to puke, I am in awe of runners like you!
Have a FANTASTIC time in Boston. The duck tour is awesome and just being in the city is sure to be a fun time. Think positive and don't let the marathon focus that weekend get you down.
Also don't forget the CMW 5k on July 31st :) I'll be there, probably just walking as usual!
That's such a bummer that you don't get to run, but I totally think you made the right decision. I also think its good that you will be taking some time off from running. I've got a little less than 3 weeks til my half and last week was my peak for training. My legs are constantly sore and tired - its amazing the toll that all that pounding takes on them.
Hope you have an awesome time in Boston - take lots of pictures and post them - I've never been there!
oh Jenny - i'm so sorry to hear that you won't be running in the boston marathon. it sounds as if you made the best decision for yourself at this time... which is important!
justin and i just went to boston for the first time this past fall to visit friends and absolutely LOVED it! you will have to go on a sam adams tour, our favorite thing was going up to the top of the prudential center and having dessert and a cocktail (you will see the entire city - its absolutely fabulous!) can't wait to hear about your trip to bean town!
So proud of you for knowing what's right for you and making this decision—I know it was a really tough one. You don't have to do it all, and we all still know you're an amazing athlete! Have a great trip with Todd, and hope you can really enjoy your time in Boston without being hard on yourself!
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