The last run of 2023 was done this morning so now it’s time to set the big goals for 2024!!
But first, my week of workouts:
Monday: Rest day
Tuesday: 30 min MAF run / HR 128 bpm
Wednesday: Intervals / 5 x 3 mins
Thursday: Rest day
Friday: Rest day
Saturday: 30 min MAF run / HR 131 bpm
Sunday: pre-run yoga 10 mins // 70 mins at MAF + 20 mins pick up pace
One thing I want to note about this week is that SHIT.HAS.GOTTEN.REAL.
I don’t know if it’s the staycation vibes I have going on right now, my irregular sleeping patterns this week, the running intensity from earlier this week or all the above but I feel it all. Last night I slept very poorly due to stomach issues, allergies, and my cat deciding to play at 1am-4am. So when we woke up this morning we decided to not run the 14 miles we had planned and instead follow the plan on the schedule. (The only reason why I changed the plan on this Sunday to 14 miles was because we had to do some minor adjustments to the plan to accommodate with the upcoming HM race in 3 weeks)! Not going to lie but this week I felt sore and energy levels were hit a bit by all the intensity from Wednesday’s intervals. I’m learning not to “send it” all the time lol and find a nice controlled higher pace. More on this actually in the goals section.
I treated myself to ASICS Novablast 4! I absolutely love them! They are so comfortable to run in. I noticed how much more room the toe box has which was nice. I still have to take them on a serious longer run but after today’s 6.57mi run in them, I can say I’m a fan. I mayyy be running the full marathon in them because I want to make sure I’m comfortable.
OK let’s get to the big 2024 running goals.
✶ Complete my first marathon ✶
This goal is terrifying so I know it’s a good one. I want to prove to myself that I can do anything that I set myself out to do :)
Plan of action: Continue to follow the training plan /pay attention to my body to avoid injuries / journal when the nerves hit hard / explore new routes to keep it interesting / active recovery days / celebrate the small wins / keep myself pumped up / BELIEVE!
✶ More runs without headphones ✶
I’ve really come to discover the benefits of running without music or headphones, this year. I’m able to be more present which helps mentally. I am able to focus on my form, cadence and breathing patterns. I noticed that when I pick up my pace I find it easier to concentrate without my headphones. My cadence remains high and my pace feels more controlled. My breath and cadence patterns lead the way instead of my music tempo. I tend to focus on power more when I have music but without it I find it more natural to adjust my form and pace in an organic way that feels sustainable.
Plan of action: I will be running my next long run without music!
✶ Create a realistic morning routine ✶
In the summer I had a really good morning routine, and as I got busier in the fall and winter, I couldn’t keep it up and it fell through. I’ve come up with a system with habit stacking (like how James Clear mentions in Atomic Habits) so that I can have a successful morning routine.
✶ Set a new PR for the half marathon ✶
I don’t plan to PR for the January Rosebowl Half Marathon in three weeks because I don’t want to get injured just before the marathon. I need to be able to get back into the training plan after the race. BUT! I would love to PR at the Long Beach Half Marathon in the fall. I still feel the need to get that PR in Long Beach for some reason lol.
Plan of action: I will continue to maintain fitness after the LA Marathon. Once I recover after the marathon, I’ll get back to improving my MAF training, and start the “Sub 2 hour half marathon plan when the time arrives. Keep consistent until then! Let’s go!
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I’m proud for all my accomplishments this year with running and truly look forward to next year. It actually feels like this year was just the warm up ✶ 2024 watch out!
The fight is worth the feelings. Commit to the process. - Eric Floberg