Training last week left me feeling invigorated and craving more weeks of running. It was my first week logging 30 miles and I enjoyed every minute of my long run.
Instead of being stressed out by the marathon and the amount of time I have to dedicate to running, I convinced myself to use the time to clear my head. Tonight I ran over 3 miles without any music, just thinking about the week, brainstorming blog post ideas, enjoying the scenery, and listening to my breath. It was during these miles that I captured the below picture, which pretty much sums up the way I’m thinking about running from now on. Hopefully the person I’m destined to be is someone who can leave my frustrations, stress, anxiety, and worry on the path and cross the finish line of the New York City Marathon on November 4th in under 5 hours.
Last week was also the first week that I completed every single workout, which was a great feeling come Sunday night. My goal for this week is to do the same in addition to getting in strength training (tomorrow) and yoga (Saturday post run).
I’m traveling once again this week but unlike last week, will definitely be able to enjoy at least one run outside. Our hotel is right on the Chicago lake front which means there is a sunrise run along the water in my future!
Monday: 5 miles (East River Path home)
Tuesday: personal training+foam rolling
Wednesday: 3 miles and yoga or cross training
Thursday: 5 miles
Friday: rest day
Saturday: 16-18 miles with Meghan followed by yoga with Kristin McGee
Sunday: 3 mile shakeout run
What mantra gets you through the tough workouts?
I love the Chicago lakefront. This is such a perfect time of year to run there!
I know Chase! I only have a few miles on the plan for tomorrow but I may sneak in a few extra!
Congrats on completing all of your workouts! I love running with out headphones – it’s definitely a form of meditation when you can zone out like that for an extended period!
Thanks Erica! Yup I’m trying to do at least one run a week sans headphones!
You did awesome this week with all your workouts Ashley! Sometimes I get stressed about training and running and then I remember this is something I enjoy doing and makes me feel good it should get rid of stress and not add to it and it does. I also think about when I couldn’t run how much I missed it!
Thanks Megan! We’re always our toughest critics but I just wish I felt better about the week overall!
Way to hit 30!! Keep it up…. and enjoy running Chicago! I did a double digit mile run while there for a conference and loved it.
Thanks Victoria! I can’t wait until the week I hit 40! 🙂
Love the picture and the quote! It’s all about getting back to the basics of what you love about running in the first place. No stress, no expectations, just enjoying each step along the path.
Thanks Taylor! I took that picture about halfway during my run and just loved the peace I found out on the pavement!