Friday, August 15, 2014

The biggest race of my life

If you're a runner and you haven't read "Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner" by Dean Karnazes, then stop what you're doing and get the book now. Yes, right now. It's very motivating. 

I bought the audio book last year and after listening, I knew I wanted to push my body to the limits. And I did, sorta. I went on a 14-mile run just for the heck of it. I wasn't training for anything, I just wanted to run more than I ever had. I didn't want my longest run to be the half marathon. 

I rediscovered the book and listened to it in July. I was once again inspired to do something bigger than I've ever done. I've been toying with the idea of ultramarathons. It's very fascinating, but I've never even run a marathon before. I started researching races in the area and found quite a few. There's a 50-miler right in my county in December. And a 100-miler in the spring. And a bunch of other races at varying distances. I know a 50-miler in 4 months would be pushing it. So I signed up to volunteer at an aid station so I can still be there to witness the awesomeness. 

And then I found a 50K happening in November. I played around with the idea of 31 miles in 3 months. There's another 50K in March of next year, but I'm hoping to be pregnant by then. ;)

I did what any sane person would do. I registered for the 50K that's in 3 months. 

Say what??!! That's right! It's scary and exciting all at the same time, and I can't wait! I know it'll be hard but I also know that 3 months will be enough time for me to mentally and physically prepare myself, as long as I use this time wisely. The fact that I'm already signed up and have announced it to anyone and everyone will be the motivation I need to stick to my training plan.   

I plan on running 15 miles by the end of this month and then I'm running Ragnar Relay. My 3 legs will add up to just over 20 miles. After I'm recovered from that, I'll do a straight 20-miler. I'd like to run 20 miles twice before the 50K. I'm not sure I'll go above that or not. I'd like to do 1 interval run, 1 easier, shorter run, and 1 long run each week. That combined with my cross training should get me where I need to me. 

Does anyone have any advice for me? I have a Camelbak I'll be trying out on my next long run. I also need to test out different foods. I can't survive off of protein bars and gels for 6-8 hours. All suggestions are welcome and appreciated! :)

My 50K training officially began today, with a great interval run on the treadmill this morning. I ran 5 miles in 38 minutes. 


Play time is over. Bring it on the hard work! :)