Hi friends! I’m excited to share that this afternoon I’m flying to Boston to take part in the Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half & Festival. I’m attempting the “Hat Trick”: a 5K and a 10K back-to-back on Saturday, followed by a half marathon on Sunday. I’ll write a full recap next week, but you can follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to see what I’m up to (and whether I survive!).
My race plan is simple: 1) keep the early paces conservative — it’s so tempting to sprint 5Ks, but I don’t want to burn out my legs — and 2) have fun. I’m approaching this weekend with no pressure about finish times; it’s a celebration of running and a chance to enjoy the challenge. I was invited by Runner’s World and will be there with a team of running bloggers — lots of familiar faces and a few new ones. I’m also looking forward to visiting the original November Project tomorrow morning. I’ll take it easier on the hill repeats, but I can’t wait to join the group.
On the fitness front this week I kept things low-key to prepare for the busy race weekend. Monday evening I met my friend Karen for a walk on the mall — a perfect, warm night and a lovely way to catch up. I love friend walking dates; they’re an easy way to combine social time with movement.
Tuesday morning I squeezed in a 30-minute swim. Swimming is a great complement to running — it gives your legs a break while still providing a solid workout, and the water pressure feels soothing when you’re sore. My hair might not love the chlorine so much, though; I’m thinking of grabbing some UltraSwim like I used to use during swim team days.
Wednesday was a rest day, and this morning I swam for 40 minutes. I’m still using an old pair of goggles that are barely holding together — any recommendations for goggles that fit narrow nose bridges? Most models I’ve tried sit too wide at the nose and leak, so I’d love suggestions.
I haven’t done much yoga lately because my knee was still tender from a bike crash two weeks ago — table top pose was uncomfortable with the bruise on the front of my knee. I was a bit worried it might be more than a bruise, but it’s feeling much better now and nearly back to normal. Fingers crossed it stays that way through the races this weekend.
I’m off to finish packing (mainly an entire suitcase of running clothes) and wrap up a few work tasks before my flight. Have a wonderful weekend, and I hope to see some of you in Boston!
How was your week of workouts?