Rest

In reading about training for a marathon, or really any type of running, the issue of rest comes up. Muscles need to recover. This is not something I knew when I first started running. I thought you had to run everyday. Boy...was I wrong.

After a strenuous workout, your muscles need time to heal and repair from any possible wear and tear they endure. This does not mean you do nothing. A rest day is a good opportunity to cross train, or work other muscles. My typical weekly schedule has me running 3-4 days a week, cross training 2 days, and one day of complete rest.

I am finding benefits to this. My energy levels are better. I feel stronger when I run or workout. And while I miss running on the days I don't run, I know this is still part of training.

So what will I do today, in anticipation of my long run tomorrow? I am babysitting my little niece Sabrina. She is a dynamo of energy, so I am sure I will get a pretty tough workout today. Who knows, I may need a nap at the end of the day.

Tomorrow is my long run. Part of the challenge is mapping out my course for tomorrow. Assuming Mapquest is correct, I have a plan. The goal is to run 8 miles. Got my water bottle ready to go. Got the Gatorade ready to drink. I think I am ready. This will be my first outdoor long run. Up until now I have been on the treadmill. Looking forward to being outside and actually seeing something on my run.

:-)Charlie