Yesterday was the last day of week 5 of half marathon training. I ran a total of 10 miles yesterday, the most I have ever run in 1 day. Before this, the most I ever ran was 9 miles and change. My calves were on fire after mile 7 and they felt strained, but I kept on going. Mental stamina was in check. So far, everything has been working out great. I take my 3 days off a week and I have been following my training schedule almost to the T. Almost. But no complaints otherwise. It's difficult to juggle teaching 8-3pm and then going for a run. It's difficult, yes, but I do it. I do it because I love it.
The training schedule goes up to week 10, but I am going to continue this since my half-marathon is April 2nd in NY and by the time I finish week 10, it will be January. I will be running my normal 5ks and will be adding some 5 mile runs, 10ks, etc. for the extra training. A little extra goes a long way.
I couldn't be any happier with my progress and I have been working so hard to maintain my mental and physical stamina. Hoping for no injuries and anticipating the best to come.
I have learned that running not only gives me the confidence I lack at times, but it also gives me mental clarity and a sense of direction. When I run, I imagine myself running to a place of pure bliss. A place where I see nothing but light, smell nothing but clean air and feel nothing by warmth and the hot sun beating down my back. Even in harsh weather conditions such as these (and it's just the beginning), you have to get up every morning, do what you have to do and remember, you don't become better by saying, "I'll do it tomorrow." You get better by saying "Today was great, and I can't wait for the next time."
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