This week was about easing back into a more consistent training rhythm after a slow start and post-vacation fatigue. Between travel, busy schedules, and squeezing in runs during swim and soccer practices, it was a week of fitting miles in where I could.
Sunday 11/03/2024 and Monday 11/04/2024
The weekend was busy with the end of Daylight Saving Time, kids’ soccer games, and travel baseball playoffs. With everything going on, I kept it simple with just 1 mile each day. Sunday was also the NYC Marathon, but that deserves its own post for all the crazy updates I caught up on later in the afternoon. For now, it’s two short runs to keep the streak alive.
Tuesday 11/05/2024 – Tempo Run Surprise
I ran 4.2 miles today, another loop of the backyard ultra distance. Ben had swim practice, so I headed to the nearby track and we both got our laps in that evening. What started as a standard run turned into more of a tempo effort—I felt good, so I decided to push it a bit. My splits were a pleasant surprise: 8:55, 8:51, 8:39, 7:41, and the last 0.2 at a speedy 6:53. Considering I’ve been running in the 9- and 10-minute paces lately, this was a big confidence boost and a sign that I’m starting to get back in shape.
Wednesday 11/06/2024 – Easy 2 Miles for Recovery
After pushing hard yesterday, I gave my muscles some extra TLC with the massage gun, working out the knots I’d built up. I woke up with some slight soreness, so I decided to keep today’s run light—just 2 miles at a relaxed 9:45 pace. My legs are definitely coming back, and I can feel the difference with each run.
Thursday 11/07/2024 – Another 4.2-Mile Loop with Ease
Back at swim practice again, so I took the opportunity to run around the downtown area. I logged another 4.2 miles, and I can feel the distance getting easier and my pace improving with less effort. My legs felt great, and if I didn’t have to rush back to pick Ben up, then get Billy from soccer, have family dinner, and head to Cub Scouts, I would’ve squeezed in an extra mile or two. I even found myself singing along to my music (sorry to anyone who heard, but I hope you enjoyed it!). It was another solid run and a great boost to my confidence.
Friday 11/08/2024 – A 5K and Feeling Light Again
Today, I ran 3.1 miles and felt fantastic. I’m hoping to build up to a 5- or 6-mile run tomorrow to close out the week strong. My pace was faster, but it didn’t feel like it at all—I think the tempo run earlier this week shocked my muscles back into gear. It’s like clearing out the cobwebs in the attic and finding your old trophies—you get that burst of energy and nostalgia that makes you feel invincible. My body is responding, and I’m just grateful to be feeling this way again!
Saturday 11/09/2024 – A 4.7-Mile Run and a Lesson in Time Management
Today, I set out for a 5-mile run but quickly realized I hadn’t timed it well. I was running short on time, so I told myself to aim for a 5K instead. But by halfway through, I found myself farther from home than planned and already short on time! I picked up the pace as much as I could, but in the end, only shaved about a minute off the total time. After a record 90-second shower, I dashed out the door, still sweating, to get Billy to his soccer game.
It was a solid run overall, and my splits were strong: 9:33, 9:05, 9:07, 8:56, and an 8:02 pace for the last 0.7 miles. This was a great reminder to manage my time better, both pre- and post-run, and set more realistic expectations. Even with the rush, it felt good to get in a longer run with a quick finish!
Wrap-up
Each day, I felt stronger and faster. The tempo run on Tuesday was a pleasant surprise and seemed to jumpstart my legs, getting them back into gear. By the end of the week, I was picking up pace, hitting the 4-mile mark with ease, and feeling more confident overall. With 20.2 miles in total, I’m happy with the progress and excited to keep building momentum next week.
