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February 28, 2006
From 60 to 10
My vacation is over and now I'm back to reality. I can see how beneficial not working is to your running, but not to your wallet. I was able to get plenty of sleep and relax, resulting in more running than I typically do.
On Thursday, I was still in Northampton. I did a 60 minute recovery run, running on a route that was basically the same as the Wednesday evening runs I used to do with Alison and Mary (only shorter). After my run, I met up for a nice lunch with a couple of friends and former co-workers. I ended my short trip in Northampton with a hike up to the Summit House at Skinner State Park. I took the scenic way home because I needed to go to a track/xc alumni meeting in Lowell. I haven't gone that way in years. I used to go that way every Friday when Brad stayed at Lowell for an extra semester to finish his degree.
Friday was a 70 minute run, followed by a double on Saturday of 60 minutes in the morning and 46 minutes in the evening. After the second run, we (I ran with Brad) had to hurry to get ready for "Game Night" at Brad's brother's house. It was tons of fun, even though we only ended up playing one game. My team won, perhaps because my mind is filled with useless trivia that you only need to pull up for Trivial Pursuit "Pop Culture".
On Sunday, I did a long run/workout. It was the weekend for me to do a long run, but since I'm running a 30k this weekend, I needed to make some adjustments. I was able to get in 16 miles though in the bitter cold. I warmed up and cooled down for 30 minutes. My workout was 9 miles of alternating miles (10 seconds faster than marathon pace vs. 20 seconds slower than marathon pace). It was done at my projected marathon pace since my actual marathon pace was the same as any other run I do on a daily basis. It's one of my favorite workouts, and it's easy until those last couple of miles when you get fatigued. The workout was somewhat boring, but I was mildly entertained by a couple of guys who came to the track to throw around a football. The nicest surprise was when Brad showed up after finishing his long run. Thankfully, knowing how cold it was, he brought a hat (I only had an ear wrap) and a neck warmer with him. I could have used another pair of gloves and a jacket since I was wearing a vest. Definitely one of the two coldest days of this winter.
Yesterday was a 45 minute recovery run and today is my day off. I should be getting some things done around here since I have extra time. However, I need to finish a movie so I can return it to the library before they close.
Posted by Caitlin at February 28, 2006 6:09 PM
Comments
Hi Caitlin, I am glad to hear you revisited the "old loop" we used to do. he he.. not very old considering those were your old stomping grounds for years. Sounds like you got in some great training. The marathon workout sounds great! That was really nice of Brad to surprise you and bring extra warm clothing! Where is the 30k you are doing? Sounds perfect for your Boston Marathon training! Hope all continues to go well. Great update!
Posted by: mary at March 1, 2006 7:02 PM