Friday, April 17, 2009

Next Stop: Taperville

Yesterday I ran the last 20 mile run on my schedule. It wasn't the greatest. I'm definitely a cold weather runner, and it was pretty warm yesterday. It had to be in the 60's when I was done and it was windy. I know that doesn't sound hot, but after training in very cold conditions, it takes a little while for my body to acclimate to the heat. I also had drank a caffeinated soda before the run, which I have never done before. I had a panicky feeling for the first couple hours and had a hard time settling into a groove. Anyway, between the heat and the caffeine my heart rate was up. I had to walk a few hills and my pace was slow, but I got it done.

Since the 20 miler is done and the marathon is 3 weeks away, that can only mean one thing: It's Taper Time!! The first day after the last 20 miler is the best. I still have the lingering sense of pride over finishing the long run (even though it wasn't the confidence booster I had hoped for) and the marathon is still too far away to worry about. Even though there are still plenty of training runs left, I certainly feel like I can take a little bit of a breather. I'm hoping to get outside on the bike and in the pool on a more regular basis.

Good luck to Velma who is running the St. Louis Go! Marathon this weekend!

9 comments:

Mark said...

Great job!! Taper time! Yes!! It feels so good to get that last 20 miler in!

Helen said...

Enjoy the taper!! It's sometimes harder than the training but oh so worth it. Loved the weather post - completely obsessed also, esp this time of year when it's so changeable...

Mel-2nd Chances said...

congrats on your last 20, i have mine tomorrow! i know what you mean by colder weather runner. I also prefer the cooler temps for running!

Jean said...

Excellent job, Beth! You have been so dedicated and have put in a lot of hard work, so enjoy the taper. Fargo is fast approaching!

I just finished my longest run this morning, so my taper begins as well. It was an absolutely glorious morning to run in the Cities today!

Nat said...

Awesome job Beth! YAY for TAAAPPPERR! Woo-hoo! I did a very, very slow 10 miles this morning. Fargo will be a very slow race for me but I'll get it done! Next up after Fargo: Buffalo! Yes for tri season!!

Velma said...

Thanks for the note :) Good job on the 20 miler. The expo was a bummer - I think the sign of poor economic times. Oh well! Happy taper

Chad said...

Don't worry about the "heat" too much. You just need a little more time to get acclimatated. Enjoy the taper - if that's possible.

Sunshine said...

Hurrah for taper time!
And happy Fargo.

Porkchopwi said...

Great job! Enjoy the taper time.