Tags
I ran another timed 5k yesterday. I was very disappointed in my time. I felt like I was struggling. I had done everything I was suppose to do; I drank plenty of water starting 2 days before, I stretched, I ate something light, but healthy about 2 hours before the race, but I finished worse than I ever have in all my runs since starting! That made me want to cry. How can I have done so poorly? I have been faithfully running since starting. I run almost ALWAYS at a least a 5k distance whenever I go out for a run. I do cross training. I can’t understand it. After beating myself up for the rest of the day I realized there are a few things I learned from this.
1. I learned all races/runs are NOT created equal. I figured, because the race was timed it was an opportunity for me to gauge my improvement. What I didn’t realize, because I am very new to all of this, a race that encourages walkers is going to be a lot of that. It was such a great cause, and I had no idea what to expect. I thought it would have streets closed down allowing us to run. I am so naive. It was through foot paths that really aren’t set up for that kind of traffic. I spent a lot of time dodging walkers and small children (which this race really WAS all about). I should have just chucked the timing chip and run for the sake of running. I put way to much emphasis on my ability, and the timing thing is awesome for many of these kids as it gives them a real sense of accomplishment. It probably only hindered me by a few minutes, but a few minutes would’ve put me at the time I actually expected to finish. So, my mind messed with my confidence. Lesson learned. Choose my race and what I want out of it. Also, I am just throwing this in there, wouldn’t it be a great idea if race organizers announced that walkers stay to the right and start in the back? OR start walkers about 5 minutes after the runners? I hear this frustration echoed time and time again from people trying to run and I get it now. I placed myself too far in the back. The next time I do a family 5K I will start myself closer to the front regardless of my time per mile, as I will at least stay in front of many people I would otherwise have to negotiate and dodge to get around.
2. I am looking into the Galloway method of walk/run for my half marathon. I can do it and accomplish the same time pace. It will take so much pressure off me. I have been feeling so inadequate lately, and I don’t want to buy into my own negative talk. Everyone seems to think I can do this. I even thought I can do this. I like the time limit, as it really weeds out the social runners and marathon runners that take over 6 hours to finish. Not, that there is a problem with those races. I just don’t want to have an easy out and go that route. I just don’t.
3. I realize that not every run or race is going to be a milestone. I have invested a lot of work in the last 5 months and I am not improving as much as I thought, but I learned it is going to take TIME. I have to keep working, and it affects me so much (my sense of failing) because, I care. I am trying very hard, dedicated, and it’s important to me.
My husband says I am over thinking everything, and I need to simplify it. I am trying too hard, and I need to just get out there and run. I don’t need a race, or time, etc. Sure, he is right. But, I need a goal. I need something I am working towards to keep me motivated and going. It means more to me than just a simple run. He probably could go out and train for 6 weeks and be ready for a half marathon, no problem. I can’t. It won’t ever be that easy for me.
Also, I feel wiped out after running hard. It’s less than it has been in the past. But, there are those days here and there still when I am done and down for the count afterwards. I get so frustrated! That isn’t how I want to spend my weekend…recovering from running. However, I keep thinking it will get better. It has to!
I know I am just having a bad few days, and we all have them. I am hoping I will look back at this blog a year from now and realize this to, was all part of the process.
Jenn Jones said:
Not every run is going to be perfect, racing or otherwise. Unfortunately, the running gods sometimes aren’t working in our favor and that is that. Just focus on how far you have come! I remember crossing the finish of my first half and full and tearing up and thinking “THIS moment right here will stick with me for the rest of my life.. THIS moment…was a LOOOOONG time coming and BOY was it worth it” there will be ups and downs, take them in stride! 🙂 You have really come a long ways! Remember that! its easy for us to get caught up in times and stats! When I do this, I get my journal out and try and reflect on how far Ive come, WHY I run (and has that WHY changed over time), and write down a few mantras to keep me going!
Also, I use the walk/run method for my halfs and fulls and honestly it works WONDERS on me. Everyone is different! But for me, it gives me time to get my fuel in and buckle down for the next interval. I know some people don’t like the stop and go, but I always suggest people try it for a while and see if it works for them!
Keep that head held high girl! Proud of you!
LikeLike
Ruaca said:
Thank you! Your advice and comments mean a lot! I re-read your comment from an earlier post and it helped , and now this one! Perfect timing. I know you’re right. And the run/walk method will give me time to recharge. I actually have seen my times improve when I have used it. I somehow felt like it wasn’t “official” if I walked. Rubbish is what I think now. I think its what will get me through. The Galloway Method is very respected , and I am going to try it. Thanks again Jenn
LikeLike
I Am Jasmine Kyle said:
Lovely girl… first off your lapping EVERYONE on the couch! Secondly you not in this to get upset over not breaking previous times. Don’t think about all of that nonsense think about the fact that you got up ate healthy dressed felt the fresh air and the camaraderie of everyone that was in the race gathering to jog together. You are focused you are present you are THERE!! doing it!!! Celebrate and be grateful! YOU AMAZING WOMAN!
LikeLike
Ruaca said:
It’s true. I really shouldn’t get so hung up on anything.. but, its hard to work at something and then not see the results one was expecting. In the end, there was an improvement. But, you’re absolutely right.
LikeLike
I Am Jasmine Kyle said:
Well gratitude is what makes what you have enough. And I can tell you it’s been a MONSTER for me to learn that lesson too! I’ll check you you check me and well check our selves! Maybe make it out alive!
LikeLike