This morning my alarm went off at 5:25 AM. Waking up this early after a wonderfully, long weekend was not easy. I was groggy and wanted to push the snooze button. Why had I committed to meeting a friend at 6 AM after a holiday weekend? Am I a masochist? No, I am merely a girl who is ready for a plan. Inspired by my friends who are kicking off their Fall marathon training, I decided last week that after months of not having a true training plan, it was time to kick things into gear. My body is healed and craving the challenge and my mind really enjoys having a plan and knowing what is on deck for the week.
Instead of committing or creating a multiple month plan, I am taking this one month at a time, especially since I’m just coming off injury. This plan, similar to my previous plans, includes a combination of running, yoga and strength training. In fact, it is very similar to my September training plan as I loved the energy and results I felt during that month of half marathon training. I was pairing running with Bar Method classes which helped me lengthen and tone my muscles while the running helped me get in half marathon shape.
Running
- Three runs per week, including
- Hills
- Long (5, 6, 7, 8 miles)
- Speed (Goal is to do this workout as part of the NYRR Brooklyn Bridge Park 5k at least once this month)
Bar Method
- Eight to ten classes this month, averaging two to three classes per week
Other
- Yoga, spinning/cycle, swimming or other strength
I have found that I can do Bar Method and a cross training workout on the same day but I do not want to do Bar Method on the same day as a run. Most weeks, this workout combination will average six to seven workouts but also allows the flexibility to do things such as bike with Bo, try new classes on ClassPass or join a friend for a Soul Cycle or yoga date after work. Also keep in mind that Bar Method is an effective yet low-impact workout. I chose Bar Method as my primary strength training this month is due to the proximity to our apartment, its availability on ClassPass (<–Save $20 on ClassPass with this link) and the positive effects it has on my body and running.
Tank – Crops (color sold out online but on sale in some stores) – Sandals
So, with that in mind, here is how July has gone thus far:
July 1 – Bar Method Brooklyn class
July 2 – 4.5 mile run with Lululemon Run Club
July 3 – Rest day
July 4 – Bar Method Brooklyn class
July 5 – Bar Method Brooklyn class
Your Turn: Are you training for anything right now? If so, what does your plan look like?
I have been struggling with the early mornings lately! I am about to kick off marathon training after my trip next week, so right now I’m enjoying NOT having a plan… but usually, I have to have one!
Have a wonderful trip and good luck with marathon training!
Sounds like a great balance of workouts! I am training for Portland Marathon October 9!
Oh Danielle I bet that marathon is beautiful! Good luck with training!
You didn’t go to the Brooks event in Oregon? Was looking forward to a recap!
No, unfortunately due to some family stuff, I had to bail last minute. It was a wonderful event based on what I’ve heard from my friends. So wish I could have gone!
I always have a “plan” without it being completely rigid. More or less, I run 5 days, cross train one (typically bike but NYC pools are open and am signed up for lap swim now), and take 2-3 bootcamps (1 hour) a week – plus one total rest day on Friday. I am running a 6 hour “ultra” in a couple weeks (most likely will just cover at least a marathon) and am running Philly marathon in November + other races. I am already at 17 miles for the long run so its going to be a long build up! I do speed/tempo Tues/Thurs, Wed/Sun typically very easy and longest on Saturdays. I’ve been doing this for quite some time now and race times have dropped so keeping it up!
That sounds like quite the plan Gianna! You are so strong! Bo and I are also signed up for lap swim so hoping to make it there on Sunday or one morning next week! Good luck with your ultra and Philly training!
I’ve been interested in trying out a barre class but there’s no way I can cough up the money to afford one at this point in my life. I’m training for a sprint tri in 5 weeks! Getting close and I’m really excited to do it again. It was the highlight of my year last year. Better than graduating college!
You have a great mix of workouts going on.
Thanks!!