When I train for a race, one of my strategies is to run a bit longer than the actual race distance, allowing me to build more endurance.  I am running about a tenth of a mile longer than the actual 10K, which isn’t much, but considering that when I started the long runs, I couldn’t even complete six miles, this is an improvement.

I continue to remind myself that the point is to show up for workouts and train so that I will be ready on race day. Even when I’m not feeling it, I show up.  This is why it pays to have a training goal, because not showing up means not completing the goal.

 

Core Strength and Pilates

I am now beginning every strength workout with a 15-minute Core Workout, and I have added Pilates into the routine.  Peloton offers a great yoga and Pilates class taught by Anna Greenberg, which is the best of both worlds.  We alternate between Yoga Flows and Pilates.  I was surprised at how I worked up a sweat because the class moved quickly and she plays great music.

Even after the race is over, I plan to keep doing Pilates workouts with Peloton because my core area is weak, and I prefer mat Pilates over traditional core classes.

Strong legs help with running.

I am not as sore as I thought I would be after my long runs, and I attribute that to the strength training I do for my lower body.  Whenever people would come to me to run a race, I would tell them the secret is to have a strong lower body (especially glutes) to help power you through the race. It is crucial to strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints to better support them and prevent injuries.

I’m unsure how much creatine contributes to my recovery.  I am still running pretty slow, and I don’t care about the time anymore.  I can say that I am much more confident going into this race than I was three weeks ago.