Happy Monday!

We had a wonderful weekend filled with a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration here in Switzerland.

There may have been one too many glasses of wine enjoyed with Casey and Joel but hey, I hear life is all about balance. I will share more of our adventures from Montreux later this week but for now, let’s talk about another favorite topic – running.

After an aggressive training plan last week I woke up for Friday morning’s long run exhausted and completely sore. My body was suffering from delayed onset muscle soreness in a huge way. In addition, while my iron levels are improving, I still need to be conscious to listen to my body whether it’s soreness or the need to sleep longer.  I texted Emily regretfully cancelling our long run date even though I’d enjoyed perfect pizza the night before in preparation for our run.

If I’d been married to my training plan I would have guilted myself into running what would have been a sup-par long run due to tired legs, a bad mental state and exhaustion. Instead, I texted back and forth with Gia debating the best option for the week’s remaining runs. Emily and I agreed that we’d meet Sunday morning, bright and early, for a run along the lake together. A Saturday evening shakeout run before hand on Saturday would have me ready for the run while also getting them used to running on “tired” legs.

Little did I know that Saturday evening the weather in Geneva would be absolutely incredible. I literally gasped in awe when we exited the train at 5pm as there was a perfect light breeze, the sun was shining and the temperature was right around 65 degrees. The weather could not have been any more perfect. This, along with the fact that Joel and Casey had high hopes for a traditional Swiss fondue dinner on Saturday night seemed like fate telling me that I should change my long run schedule.

I know, I know. A coach exists to give a runner a schedule, challenge them and help ensure that they are preparing their body in the best possible way for an upcoming goal. Unfortunately for Gia, I’ve been training a few too many years. I’ve learned the hard way that if I’m going to enjoy training and be successful, I can’t let the run rule my life. I have to be able to enjoy this incredible experience we’re having in Europe while also challenging my legs and mind to run faster than ever before.

Those 9 miles enjoyed with Emily on Saturday night were exactly what I needed emotionally, mentally and physically. Physically they were not easy as I was a bit hung-over and dehydrated from #allthewine the night before. We’d also spent five hours touring Chateau Chillon and Montreux.  But, as soon as Emily and I started running the fresh air, sunshine and incredible views brightened our attitudes and before we knew it we were throwing down sub 9:30 miles. We forced ourselves to slow down but overall the miles felt easier than I expected.

By 8:30 that night I was enjoyed delicious fondue with Joel, Casey and Bo so thankful for the decision I’d made. I was enjoying the experience versus worrying what the fondue would do for what was supposed to be my Sunday morning long run.

The next time you think about rearranging your life or missing out on something due to a run, question whether it isn’t possible to be agile and readjust your schedule. In the long run, this is most likely the best decision for your love of running.