Hmmm . . . I really seem to be struggling lately. I wish I could figure out if it is a lack of proper training, low iron levels, a lack of mental toughness, or a combination of factors. I just feel like I should be further along than I am. It makes me nervous, because I worry that I don't have enough time to get in the kind of shape that I need to be in to run a OTQ in the marathon.
I got up at 5 to do a shake out run of about a mile and a half. When I got to the race, I ran a three mile warm-up with some of my East Runners. I felt okay warming up.
After a few strides, the race got underway. I tried not to go out too hard, since that has been my problem the last couple of races. I was 5:45 through the first mile, which is uphill. I knew the next mile was downhill, so I thought I could match the pace or even run a little faster. I ran 5:51 through mile 2. I tried to close on Stephanie Talley, who was only about 10 seconds up on me, but I seemed just to stay the same distance behind her. I think she finished in about 18:09.
I just feel so flat when I run. There is no spring or sharpness to my running. Originally, I had planned to skip this race, since I ran a half a week ago, and we had our trip to Cedar City. I'm sure both of these events were factors.
I cooled down 3.5 miles. My left soleus started to twinge during the cooldown. I guess it goes with my sore right achilles. My body is falling apart!!!
I guess I just need to keep plugging away, and hopefully I'll see some improvement soon.
PM: 45 minutes elliptical followed by lifting and core. | 