This week marks the ‘turnaround week’ in your Bank of America Chicago Marathon training—from this point, you’re “heading home” to October 8!... which makes today a really good day to look back (and smile!) as you consider all that you’ve achieved so far; and to look forward (in awe!) to all you’re about to achieve in the weeks ahead.
And it’s a good time to honestly assess how you’re feeling, ‘body-wise’… to take
stock of all those joints, tendons and muscles you’ve been ‘beating-up’ on—especially as long-run distances and weekly aggregate miles begin to (seriously) increase.
To that point, I remember attending a clinic about the most frequent running-related injuries and was reminded that, over the years, I've had ’em all—including shin splints, "runner's knee," plantar fasciitis, a heel spur, Achilles tendonitis as well as IT band and hamstring issues.
(I know, I know, “What a wreck!”)
The good news (if there can ever be "good news" when talking about an injury) is that all these injuries are rather common to runners, and all are rather treatable—provided they're acknowledged and diagnosed early.
In fact, one of the ‘big lessons’ these injuries have taught me is that the body has an AMAZING ability to heal itself, if we’re just patient enough (and smart enough) to allow it to BE amazing!
(In other words, visiting a sports physical therapist; putting as much time and effort into your recovery as you put into your training; and taking a “rest break” from running—when you know taking a break from running is what you should really be doing.)
(Enough said.)
If any of this sounds like I’m talking to you, check out Coach Brendan’s marathon training tip for this week, “R.I.C.E. Is Very Nice!”
That’s “Rest. Ice. Compression. Elevation.” (Although on more than a few Saturday nights that’s become, "Rest. Ice. Craft beer. Elevation.")
Finally… regarding any nervousness or ‘anxiety’ you may be feeling about the second half of the training season (especially those who just ran a summer half marathon, or their ‘first ever’ 12 or 14 mile long-run)—the truth is, before you get to the 'START' on October 8 you'll probably run four or five half marathons... considering that you'll be completing long runs of 14, 16, 18 and 20 miles.
Now, I share this with you not to freak anyone out ("WHAT! I'm going to run 5 half marathons!")—but rather to highlight the fact that by following your training schedule, you will be SO Ready (in body, mind and spirit) as you line-up and stand at the “START” on Marathon Day.
(Nice.)
Have a great week ahead.
(In fact, have a great ‘whole second half’ of your marathon training season!)
And please… train safe.
And (of course) run strong.
Always.
C.
