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?