In February I posted about my Big Plans for 2014 and then, 6 weeks later, posted about how running kinda sucks. I have updates on both fronts…as I’m sure you are on the edge of your seat in anticiptation!
First let’s talk about running. This is the good news. It’s getting better…dare I say running seems to be clicking again? Maybe it’s the weather and more outdoor running? Maybe I needed to get that first race under my belt? Maybe, structurally, I’m finally adapting to my new normal? Whatever it is, I hope it sticks around. My weekly mileage is still low – 25 to 30 mpw – and I intend to keep it there for at least another month. Lower mileage is giving me ample time for pre-hab (hips and glutes) and core work which is vital right now.
My big plan for this Fall was to run a 50 miler – specifically the JFK 50 miler – in November. Training for an ultra, as opposed to training for a marathon PR, just made sense postpartum. My body cannot handle the rigors of speed work and fast finish long runs this year. Instead I crave long, slow miles…the building blocks for a strong 2015. (Goals for 2015 include a marathon PR and Boston in 2016.)
Registration for JFK opened April 1st and I went back and forth about it. I so wanted to do it but my gut kept telling me to run a 50K instead. Since your gut is always right (always), I registered for the Blues Cruise 50K in October. My primary reason for dropping to the 50K distance? Motherhood is physically exhausting! And I don’t mean in a sleep deprived way…I’m talking about hauling around almost 15 lbs (Fiona’s a good eater!) all day while bending, twisting, and kneeling. By the end of the day, I’m beat up.
The back-to-back long runs needed for a 50 mile race would surely do me in on the weekends and it would require a lot of time away from Fiona (and family time). I just don’t want that right now. A 50K is much more manageable in terms of long runs and overall mileage and I already have experience with the distance and training for it. And the race is an hour from my house and is supposed to be pretty good – a 31 mile loop around a lake that isn’t too technical (but hilly).
I’m excited. And relieved. There are lots of new “firsts” right now and I just don’t want training to be one of them. I also have 3 half marathons scheduled for this year and my goal is to PR at the Philly Half in November.
First things first though – Broad Street on May 4th…
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RTLR Coaching is having a SALE on online coaching services now through April 21st! Now is the time to start planning for your Fall race. More details here.
A 50k less than a year postpartum is nothing to sneeze at in my humble opinion! Making family time a priority seems like a great idea. And JFK certainly isn’t going anywhere!
I think your plan sounds great and it’s not as if a 50k is any small feat 🙂 I always think it is so important to listen to your body, especially now when you have so many changes in your life! Good luck!
It’s unbelievable how much time training for ultras can take. And then add in the oftentimes exhausting (!!!) days as a stay-at-home mom? I think a 50K is the perfect distance. Good call.
Speaking of 50ks…. mine is this SATURDAY!!!! I can hardly wait.
I think that’s a great decision to go with the 50k. Ultra training is no joke.
I have heard good things about Blues Cruise too.
Races will always be there but babies are babies for a limited time! And I think that is still a major accomplishment to be running and racing the way you are with an infant. 🙂
Good luck with Broad Street!
I think you made the right decision for sure! I don’t think I have time to train for a 50 miler, and I don’t have any kids!!
I think this revised plan sounds like a great idea; good luck! 🙂
OMG a 50k as a new mother? You’re seriously amazing. Also, this is creepy as hell, but I can’t get enough of your daughter. She is the freaking CUTEST! Good luck at Broad Street this weekend!