Weeks 2 + 3

With the holidays being so hectic (and being away from my laptop to spend time with my friends and family), I haven't had much time to reflect and update y'all on my half marathon training! I keep track of upcoming runs in my calendar and make notes of my progress in a separate notebook.

For the last few weeks, I have revolved my calendar, habits, and rituals around my training. I am constantly researching running tips and strategies to stay in tip-top shape. One issue I had going into my second week of training was week hips. I quickly made friends with Icy Hot and started incorporating hip strengtheners into my post-run routine. 

My running schedule in the first three weeks consisted of frequent short runs (2-4 miles), cross-training, and a long run on Saturdays. Now that my mileage is increasing on the weekends, the schedule allows for more rest days. 

Merry Christmas to me! New running shoes, vegan cookbook, juice recipe book, compression socks, and a fitbit!

Yesterday, I ran the furthest I had ever run in my entire life. I was so happy and couldn't stop smiling (could have something to do with the endorphins but whatever). I had only run two 10k races (6.2 miles) before but I was scheduled to run 7 miles yesterday. I can't lie, I was a little bit nervous and had a lump in my throat. How was I going to pull this off?! Worst of all, it was freeeeeezing yesterday and I was NOT in the mood for an outdoor run. So I was forced to use the treadmill at the gym. 

One thing I told myself was not to use the personal TV in front of me while I ran. I actually find it too distracting. I'd rather get into music and focus on my breathing and form. Once in a while, I'd look up to the bigger TVs to watch a little Sports Center. There won't be a TV to watch while I'm racing in February so I have to be comfortable with just my music. One advantage to running at my gym is that I can use the mirror in front of me to watch my form and adjust the way my ankles turn in.

I'm really getting into my training because it is such a healthy way to be selfish with my activity, what I eat, what I drink, how I sleep, etc. 

Some things I've been doing a lot more of now that I'm training:
-Laundry
-Cold baths 
-B vitamin recovery drink mix
-Chocolate milk post-run
-Drinking at least 80 ounces of water each day (and peeing a lot... my friends were making fun of me!)
-Foam rolling
-Hip strengthening exercises and lots of stretching everyday
-Napping and/or going to bed early

So what's on the agenda for today? Full-body circuit and a lot of foam rolling! 

Now onto Week 4!