…often go awry.
That sums up running for me this past week.
MONDAY
My alarm went off at 5:00 and when I lifted my head off the pillow, it immediately snapped back down. I could not get up. Normally I have no trouble getting out of bed for a run (I’m anti-snooze button) so when this happens, there’s definitely a reason for it and I better take a rest day. So I did but cringed because it was an unplanned rest day.
TUESDAY – the heel incident
I ran 9 miles before work and felt great. I had to wear heels for an hour on Tuesday so I switched into them at the very last minute, took one step with my right foot, and audibly yelped. This is exactly why I hate heels and never wear them. I shaked it off but felt some pain below my knee, off to the right side. Damn heels.
WEDNESDAY
I was nervous about how my knee would feel on a run after the heel incident but I was fine. Another 9 miles before work. I wore my CEP compression sleeves to work (under my pants, of course). I could still feel some slight pain below my knee later in the day.
THURSDAY
I had 4 easy miles planned but woke up with some lingering knee pain. Damn heels. Knowing that Friday and Saturday would be big mileage days my gut was saying rest. Although my brain was saying it’s only 4 miles. The gut always wins. Unplanned rest day #2. Ugh.
FRIDAY
I had 24 miles planned. The rest of FRIDAY may be TMI for some so feel free to skip to SATURDAY.
I always use the bathroom before long runs, just like everyone else. In rare cases, I can’t and it always comes back to haunt me. I woke up Friday at 4AM and couldn’t use the bathroom. I don’t know why – maybe it was too early?
My stomach started to revolt at mile 5. I toughed it out for another 15 miles before I waved the white flag. I felt amazing – no heel incident pain, no nothing. I could have easily done another 4 miles.
Damn heels, damn stomach.
SATURDAY
I planned for 12 miles but ended up running 13. Again, I felt so good. My legs are finally warming up to the back-to-back long runs.
SUNDAY
Rest day (yes, another one). Matt and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary a little early and I wanted to sleep in, spend time with him, and go to brunch. I’m always running Saturday and Sunday mornings so it’s nice to get a day off once in awhile.
I can’t complain – although that’s exactly what I just did – I ran 51 miles in 4 days. Was it an unexpected drop back week? Yes, but I still got in some quality workouts. And aren’t I supposed to be relaxed about ultra training? Isn’t that what I said? Please remind me of that.
Do you wear heels? Considering I trip in running shoes, I should just stay away from heels altogether. Aside from weddings and special work occasions, I never wear them. I’m either in flats, running shoes, flip flops, or Uggs.
Kara says
Only 51 miles in 4 days? You slacker. I can’t believe you have the guts to even admit that. 🙂
Meggie says
Heels are only for special, special, SPECIAL occasions (weddings, etc) and I always have a pair of flats nearby. I’m a wimp!
bethp262 says
I love the way heels look but do not wear them very often because my feet end up killing me after a couple of hours!
Happy Anniversary!
Mandy says
Smart woman listening when your body wants a rest day, even if it drives the mind crazy!
I don’t do heels! I had some I’d bought for a party, and they just went into the donate-box.
David says
I don’t think I’ve ever had a week where everything went exactly as planned. I’m still really impressed by the miles you got in!!! My take-away from your post? I’m glad I’ll never have to wear heels!
Beth @ RUNNING around my kitchen says
You and I likely have a similar shoe collection – I love my flip flops, Uggs, and running shoes the most….wear flats if I should look nice and only wear heels if I need to 🙂 And I am the same with the bathroom – I don’t get why I can go sometimes and not others, but it ALWAYS makes me nervous when I can’t go before a run!
Congrats on all the miles, you’re awesome!
Terzah says
I don’t do heels anymore except on VERY special occasions (that is, not work–maybe a wedding). They’re just so bad for your legs, and I have bunions anyway. And I’ve seen the feet of career heel wearers–not pretty. My feet are functional! I’m a runner!
I think you’re being smart to follow where your body leads with this training. It will pay off!
Kelly says
you toughed it out for 15 miles on a wonky stomach???? That is insane. I applaud you, my friend. ANd I’m with you, man! No heels for me unless it’s a special occasion. And I’m totally ok with that 🙂
Rachel says
I love heels. I’m sure I love them because I’m only 4’11. So yeah, anything that makes my legs look longer.
As for the pooping situation — I totally gotta drop one before I go for any run (long/short). Otherwise, I’m uncomfortable as hell. You prob couldn’t go because it was too early. It’s clockwork for me when it’s time to go. (I don’t think this subject is TMI for runners as you can tell, LOL). But wow, you did awesome. I swear, I’d be tooting the entire 15-miles.
Oh, I put your race in my calendar. Hooray. Can’t wait to see you!!!! You’re so going to rock this with all the training you’re doing. You are freaking amazing.
Katie says
Good G-d, Kristy, you are KILLIN’ it! Seriously, I am sooo impressed with your running lately!
As for shoes, you should see my closet– I LOVE shoes and have a disgusting collection, but since the PF has kicked in, I have to watch it with both heels (tighten up my calves) AND flats (no arch support.) Too bad Crocs are, like, the ugliest things ever…!
Kate @ NaturaStride says
Good for you for knowing you needed to rest on Monday. Smart. Girl, I hate heels. I avoid them at all costs.
Glad those back to back runs are feeling good! On your way!