I subscribe to Runners World magazine and though it is filled with wonderful articles, tips, tricks and advice, it is missing one thing. I rarely see anything regarding how to recover mentally and physically from a bad run. I realize that not every run is going to be a good run, but what causes a bad run? Especially if nothing has changed with YOU. i.e. same eating habits, same shoes, same clothes, weather, etc. Nothing changes, so why would one run be better than the other?
So today, I get out to run 8 miles as part of my training program. I start out real good, strong and enjoying my new shoes (which have been broken in). I get to the halfway point and turn around to make my way home. Around mile 7 my legs start to feel real heavy. It was a struggle just getting each foot to go in front of the other one. What the hell is that about? I finally had to stop around 7.4 and walk the rest of the way home which was about 1.5 more miles. All in all, I ran/walked about 9 miles today so yeah me but the goal was to actually run the full 8 miles and use that last mile to cool down. Not all runs are going to be great, I realize that. So, it brings me to my question again. What makes one day better than the other?
Keep in mind that the scenario above has happened before. And even though today’s run comes one week after being sick, my question is still relevant!
And another thing…a few people have mentioned that I am too hard on myself. So, I had a bad day, so what. I just want to clarify one thing. I simply know what I am capable of and when that does not happen from time to time, it disappoints me. I just get back out and do it again and never let a bad day deter me.
*update: I re-read the last paragraph and realized just how unflattering and ugly it may have sounded. I am not apologizing for it, but I think I should at least clear the air. I was never and have never been upset by my friends trying to lift me up. The comments that I get from my friends that say I am hard on myself or I need to take it easy on myself are in no way meant to upset me, and for the record, they don’t upset me in the least bit. They have my best interest at heart and I know that! I love them for that and just thought they needed to know.