Achieving a Personal Milestone: Completing My First Full Marathon
Hey there, wonderful readers! I’m absolutely thrilled to have you join me for this exciting new journey as I begin my marathon training program. If you’re a fitness enthusiast, a running fan, or simply love a good challenge, then you’re in for a treat.
Stepping Beyond Half Marathons
If you’re familiar with my journey, you know that I’ve conquered a number of half-marathons. Those extra-long runs with my husband and our running buddies have been incredible adventures. They usually end with a well-deserved trip to our favorite breweries. But today, I am preparing for a greater challenge – my first full marathon.
Choosing a Path of Preparation
Unlike my previous running adventures, I am approaching this new challenge with proper preparation. I’m excited to share with you that I’ve chosen the Nike Run app’s training program as my guide. And hey, just to clarify, this isn’t a sponsored video – it’s all about genuine choices here.
Balancing Act: Training and Planning
You should know me well enough to expect that I can’t resist incorporating my planner into my training process. With my favorite Moterm Planner, I’ve created a little insert to track my runs and workouts. It’s my way of embracing a sense of accomplishment at every step.
Navigating Nutrition and Hydration
Okay, so full disclosure – I haven’t nailed down a precise nutrition plan just yet. But, as the saying goes, you have to start somewhere. While the initial week focuses on training, I’m taking the plunge into proper nutrition from week three onwards.
Hydration, my friends, is also a crucial piece of this puzzle. Admittedly, I’ve fallen short on water intake, but I’m committed to sipping my way through at least 48 ounces daily. As my training ramps up, so will my hydration game!
Week One: Training Adventures
Let’s dive into the first week of my marathon training journey. Here’s a sneak peek at how each day unfolded:
Monday – Recovery Run
- Planned: 10-minute recovery run
- Actual: Ran 3 miles at a 9:48 pace
Note: An easy run that could’ve been slower, a reminder to pace myself.
Tuesday – Speed Run
- Planned: 8 x 1-minute intervals at 5k pace
Actual: Started at an 8-minute pace on the treadmill, redid the run outside because the app didn’t track it
Wednesday – Rest and Recovery
- Activities: Upper body exercises and stretching
Personal Picks: Dumbbell Arm Exercises and Stretching Routine
Reflection: Soreness was manageable, a nod to effective recovery.
Thursday – Beachside Recovery
- Activity: Recovery run at the beach
Running Buddy: My daughter, who’s starting her own running journey
Result: A relaxed 30-minute run at a 10’53” pace
Friday – Easy Does It
- Activity: Super easy recovery run at a 10:20 pace for 30 minutes
Note: A peaceful solo run due to dining choices and upset stomach of my daughter.
Saturday – Active Rest
- Activities: 10-minute Yoga – Runners Flow on Nike Training App
Bonus: A 2.3-mile leisurely walk with my husband
Sunday – The Long Run
- Activity: 5-mile long run
Twists of Fate: Plans for an 8-mile trail run altered by an impending tropical storm
Outdoor Adventure: Completed the run outdoors before the storm came, but still ended up very wet
Wrapping Up Week One
And there you have it. I can’t wait to share more of this adventure with you as I progress through the program, conquering each week one step at a time. Remember, the journey is where the magic happens, whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out. Until next time, keep chasing those goals and embracing the journey with open arms!
If you enjoyed this post and want to see more, check out my video!