I'm in full taper mode and I feel like a blob (I don't taper well). I feel fat, lethargic, and out of shape. Five days to race day and I feel like the Pillsbury Dough Boy on a binge of beer and tater-tots! My training has gone very well. I set up a schedule in early July and I've followed it to a tee. I've resisted over-training and nixed the incredible temptation to register for the Treherne and Niverville half marathons (I LOVE Treherne). My weight and BMI are good. I've had a couple of very successful long runs of 22 miles and 23 miles, I've run hours upon hours of hills, and even speed work (my least favourite event) went well. I've added some cross-training for the first time ever. I've been concentrating on core workouts and building upper body strength at the Rady Centre. I'm taking a Spin/ Yoga class every Wednesday for ten weeks. As my running pal V said, my training has been "smart". All in all, things are going well and I feel prepared for the slow dance next Sunday so why the unrelenting self-doubt? I know, I know, visualize, think positive thoughts, see yourself at the finish line, choose your mantra, go to your special place... I know all that, but still, the self doubt! The self-doubt. Where does it come from? It's not healthy. It robs from what should be a life altering experience. As I alluded to in Jen's blog the other day we runners need to keep things in perspective. We are so goal focussed that we can't see the forest for the trees. We become focussed on time, on being better, faster, stronger. We lose sight of what it's really all about; a celebration of life and an affirmation of good health.
That was my sensible, feminine side talking. The testosterone soaked man-brain still seeks the elusive sub-four hour marathon. My PB is 4:10 and change so a few seconds shaved here would be acceptable, and I'd settle in a pinch for 4:30 and a cold beer, but still the 3:59:59 haunts me. The course profile is generally down hill and the temps should be coolish so all things considered, I'm feeling good.
But most of all I'm feeling luck; lucky to be alive, lucky to have my health, and lucky to have your support! I'll do my best to write a couple more reports before race day. Stay tuned.
You know it... it's a great day to be alive.
M
4 comments:
The week has finally arrived. It's good to hear that training is going well. Good Luck to you and Nazir and the 8 other runners from Winnipeg on Sunday. Long range forcast should be around 10 degrees on sunday, perfect day for a run.
Best of luck to you Mike, Nazir and the others as you head to Toronto. Lynda Tunny and I have been wondering about you, Mike. We were expecting to see you in Treherne and were hoping that all was well. So glad to hear that you sound extremely fit,strong and ready for Toronto! Will be thinking of you and look forward to hearing about the experience. Take care.
Best of luck to you Mike. I can't wait to hear all about it.
Congrats on your finish Mike. I know it wasn't the time you wanted, but you are still in .01% of the population who has ever completed even one marathon. I will buy you that cold beer. :o)
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