Guess what kids? Yup, it’s marathon training time again. This is the time of year when the blog will revolve primarily around running, trying not to eat everything in sight, early morning wake up calls to avoid the heat, and more. But, runners fear not because I promise to balance out the running talk with the same old food, fashion, workout reviews, and travel posts!
This year, however, there are some changes to the plan thanks to the help of my training coach, Gia. If you’re a long time reader you know that New York round 1 was amazing and crossing the finish line for the first time was one of the best moments I’ve experienced to date. However, New York round 2 was pretty much one of the worst moments of my life. After some serious assessment and discussion about the last year, Gia and I decided that in order to do our very best possible to ensure that the 3rd time would be a charm, we have to make some changes that may not always be fun but they’ll pay out.
The Next 17 Weeks Will Include:
- Running outside
- More protein
- Less “empty cross training”
- More weekday miles
- Abs
Having the energy to be a weekend warrior has always made me proud. I’m able to work long hours on the weekend and then wake up bright and early, earlier than most of my friends like, for long runs and then squeeze in some other workout that same afternoon and the next day, never giving my muscles time to relax or recover. This year’s plan includes higher mileage during the week and then only running and yoga on the weekends. In addition, the yoga is supposed to be more restorative than strength.
In addition, I’ve been scared of the heat and hills of running outside in New York City and Central Park during the Summer months for way too long. Now that I’m regularly running with my co-workers every Monday I’ve become far more confident in my ability to not only run outside, but also run in Central Park and log miles after work.
I’ve already talked about the more protein goal on my blog so I will therefore leave you with a link versus being repetitive.
I’ll also leave you with two things: protein can come in more forms than powder (per the picture above of tonight’s dinner for two) and I’ll remind you just how delicious a protein shake can be for only 200 calories, especially when it includes chocolate powder, Almond Breeze light, ice, and 1/2 a banana! 20 ounces of pure delicious, cold nutritious protein that tastes a lot like dessert!
Oh and we can’t forget to talk about ABS. While I’m not rocking abs like Tina or Susan, I am feeling pretty confident about how much my body has leaned out the past few months. In addition, I officially have the top 2 packs of a 6 pack which gives me more motivation than ever to work my abs. Combine that with the fact that Amanda and Susan are hosting a fabulous, ass blasting AB CHALLENGE (#abchallenge) this month on their blogs and YouTube, I can promise you that a stronger core will be crossing the line this year than last. Plenty of people stronger and faster than me say that a strong core can be key to strength and stamina during long runs so I’m going to trust them. 
Last but not least, here’s week 1 of my marathon training plan, along with the notes section.
The only change you may see this week would be doing my 10 on Friday instead of Saturday due to my in-laws visit to NYC this weekend.
So there you have it, marathon training has kicked off and I couldn’t be more excited for this year!
If you have time, I’d love if you could support my friend Dorothy as she has been selected as one of 10 finalists for the Skechers Go Run Cover Model Contest! She and I would both love for you to support her by voting for her here!
Yay! You are going to have an awesome training season and an awesome race!
so jealous, training in NYC for NYCM! You go girl!
GREAT PLAN and GREAT GOALS. I am training for my first marathon, so I am excited to follow your journey, we can train together!
Good luck training! Can you describe what ’empty cross training’ might be?
it’s marathon training for me too! good luck with yours! and thanks for the reminder about the abs – mine are neglected far too often.
Awesome! Thank you for sharing your aspirations and training plan. I’m currently training for my first half in October with my eyes on a full in the next year or two. Following your process is incredibly helpful and inspiring!
I need to set some goals too. My training is starting in Monday, but my only goals incude running. I love that yours are diverse. I’ve never had a protein shake before (I was always afraid they’d make me bulk up), but feel that may be important when I start adding on big mileage. Thanks for including what you put in your shake. What’s your favorite protein powder to use?
I voted for Dorothy. She’s at 19% right now. Go Dorothy.
I’m somewhere in the midst of 15-milers for my marathon training and I can attest the earlier you get the long runs done, the better. That is, unless you like a sweatfest while running!
good luck training! what do you mean by ’empty cross training’? i always have trouble finding some sort of CT activity that isn’t the boring elliptical.