On the 4 ^th Day of Fitmas….

REST

One of the things I’ve learned in my training is the importance of rest. I’ve been the most motivated I’ve ever been in my life these past few months that anyone suggesting I stop running (to help heal my leg) are met with raised eyebrows from me.

But, I’ve realized that resting will let me run. Not resting will mean no running. I have one complete rest day in my week when I do absolutely nothing but hang out, which is Friday, and Sunday and Tuesdays are cross training days. I try and make Sunday a chill cross train day and Tuesday a more challenging one. (I have to add that with the Runner’s World Streak I’ve been running every day. However, on “off days” I take it more slowly)

Another factor in resting is making sure I’m doing all I can to re-energize. After each run, I try and make sure to foam roll and ice. This doesn’t always happen but definitely more often than not. If you haven’t invested in a foam roller, I highly suggest it. You can find one in your sports store but also in places like Target, Ross, and TJ Maxx for around $15.

Making sure I take it easy some days allows me to look forward to the days I know will be challenging. If everyday were difficult, I think I’d eventually become frustrated, bored, and burnt out. And, it also helps my family because I’m definitely in a better mood if I’m decently rested : )

—Are you good about allowing time for rest?

—What are your rest days like?

Marathon Training Week 5

This was a really busy week.

On Sunday, I ran the Hot Chocolate 15k which was awesome!!

On Monday, I ran a recovery mile and took it easy.

On Tuesday, I was back at the gym but I switched things up and instead of doing my usual hill intervals I ran my one streak mile and biked 10 miles.

Wednesday was track day—speed work. You know I love track days and this day was just…wow. I won a BOB jogging stroller valued at $380!!! A runner in my run club owns a baby store and raffled the stroller to only members. At the start of practice, he drew names and mine was picked!!! You have no idea the look of shock on my face. My husband too, could not believe we had won when I called him!

Thursday was a 6 mile treadmill run and Friday was a chill one mile streak run.

Saturday I rested and ran a one mile streak one as I had my last race of the year the next day—I will recap it tomorrow!! : )

This week’s total mileage: 21.65 miles and 10 bike miles. Overall a good week and now that my last race of the year is in the books, I’m preparing for a ½ marathon mid January. Very excited for 2014!! : )