New York Marathon Training Week 9 - Recovery Week

When I trained for my first marathon I used a plan created by the coach of our running club (Vavi Run Club). It called for a recovery week every 4th week which involved a cut back in mileage and intensity and the idea has stuck with me for years. As I mentioned, I’m kind of just making up my own plan at this point and so after three intense weeks of training with long runs all in the 3 hour range, I took it way back last week. I included a tempo run because I was still feeling good and didn’t want to miss out on a week of progress in that regard, but otherwise last week was all about recovery.

I recently purchased a new Beachbody program called Pi-Yo which is a mix of pilates and yoga (no weights involved) because I thought it would be a great compliment to my peak marathon training. I planned to start it last week but ultimately decided to take a full break from any regime. Whatever workouts I got on top of my runs were bonus and I only did them if I felt like it.

Before we get to the recap I wanted to mention that my next 21 Day Fix Challenge Group starts on October 10th! You’ll want to order this weekend to get it in time, so please reach out to me at fitnessfataleblog at gmail.com if you’re interested!

Monday – 6 mile run. My mom was still in town so I took off in the morning while she watched Siena and ran on the trails near our house.

Tuesday – 21 Day Fix Extreme. Mike and I did this workout together during a nap. He had the day off due to being out of town for work over the weekend so we enjoyed the day together. It rained but it was kind of nice to just snuggle up indoors!

Wednesday – 5 mile run. Siena and I headed to the coast for a very humid 5 mile run.

Thursday – 6 mile run with 2 x 2 mile tempo. I’m getting used to the treadmill, especially for speed work. I may even enjoy it more!? It’s nice to just set the pace and zone out and watch Scandal! I guess it’s not helping with my mental toughness and pacing skills but it’s pretty nice!

Friday – 3.1 mile stroller run & 21 Day Fix Yoga. Siena and I did quick run along the coast after our weekly baby sign language and music class at the Encinitas Library. That afternoon I did 21 Day Fix Yoga – it felt amazing!

Trying not to take myself too seriously on Flex Friday

Saturday – 12 miles. I met up with the Seaside Striders again for this run. I have to give it to the coach for always picking routes that I would NEVER do myself. This time we met at the start line of the San Dieguito Half Marathon and ran through the rolling hills of Rancho Santa Fe. Most of it was on road but some was on the bark-lined horse trails. It was a really enjoyable run and I ended up having great conversations with some new friends, as Kelly ended up getting sick around mile 3 and headed home.

That afternoon we headed down to Mission Bay for the wedding of my old college roommate. Mike and I also got married on Mission Bay (different venue) almost three years ago so we got a hotel room at the venue and used it as a mini anniversary getaway. It was really nice and we had a really fun time!

Sunday – REST. This was my first rest day in 28 days and was well deserved! Mike and I spent the morning in Mission Beach enjoying coffee by the water and taking a long walk around town. It was nice to relax and enjoy the view!