Apologizes for the colorful language in the title, but it is a phrase I’ve heard used by an elite running buddy of mine (2:40 marathoner) and have been dying to use it for 3 years. He said “you will know it, when you do it”. Today, I did it. I’ll explain in a bit.
Despite the overwhelming guilt of taking a rest day yesterday, See Jess Run made me feel better about it. She is as wise as she is fast! Also, I slept in today. None of that hitting the streets at 6 am business. I had time to make a cappuccino and scarf down a couple mini bagels. Even though I knew last night that I planned a longish run today, I forgot to eat enough. I fueled and dressed properly. It was sunny, 25* with the wind chill which is huge improvement over yesterday’s gusts in the 30-40 mph range. To avoid overheating, I went with shorts and my heavier jacket … and of course, cap and double gloves.
Feeling pretty good despite the chilly temps, I ran on the Bridle Path. It felt like getting reacquainted with an old friend as each of this week’s daily runs have been on the asphalt (due to the rain). I am starting to believe I am a cold weather runner. So far the temp when I was running never hit 30* and I have had a stellar week thus far. Also, the mini taper (low mileage) from last week is likely paying some dividends. I got out of the blocks fast and really never looked back. However, I made one MAJOR change to my routine today. I went with headphones for the first time since August. When I run, I think too much and my mind rarely wanders. I get stuck thinking about running, which is somewhat counterproductive … or at least makes the run feel like it is taking longer. I’d been considering listening to music for the last few long runs … I carry my iPhone anyway and thought it might be a nice distraction from myself. I’ve been torn as I really appreciate purist running … hearing everything around you, being open to conversations with fellow runners, etc.
Well, how did it work out?
I repeat: I BEASTED THAT SH*T! 13.16 miles at an 8:02 pace … essentially a 1:45 half marathon pace compared to 2:13 that I ran in August. Now, before I start patting myself on the back too much. That pace is not entirely accurate, nor a likely predictor of my HM race in late January. I stopped for the restroom/refuel with GU and had to briefly stop towards the end to keep stretching my leg (groin started to act up again). Nonetheless, for me, that is a blistering, marathon goal pace … and my marathon isn’t until November 2010. I don’t really have goals for HM or shorter distances yet. Anyway, I caught myself smiling as I was running … in 25* weather … smiling … that’s how good of a run this was. Also, you know when you are blazing away when most everyone gives you that “look” like “hey that’s a real runner.” It’s the look I give almost everyday, so to actually receive it was amazing.
Of course, being the skeptic I am, I had to recalculate the route mileage a few times. It was accurate. What I found most gratifying is that until the Last Mile Party, I didn’t push it. The run was natural. Maybe a return music during daylight/long runs is the way to go. What do you think?
I BEASTED THAT SH*T!