Make it work. That has been the theme of my training week. Having a full time job, a husband, and somewhat of a social life makes training quite the task for me. This week I found a few excuses to delay my runs, but got them all in and within my time frame. I also took an impromptu trip to Oklahoma for the Women's Softball College World Series, where my Bruins are playing for the national title.
A pre-run stretch in front of Sonic drive-in, with honking passing-by Oklahomans.
Talk about winds of change: going from San Diego to Oklahoma is much less than a breeze. It's hot and muggy, you sweat just from walking outside, and coastal runs are not an option. My body loves the humidity though, and my joints are happy here. My 4 mile run took place on the hotel treadmill as I knew I would get lost outside. Luckily, the treadmill had a built-in TV and I actually finished my run while watching Sports Center. Normally I find an excuse to end treadmill runs (being bored out of my mind and then convincing my body it's exhausted). But here, I was supported by a couple of my best friends (also UCLA alumni), who have made sure I keep up on my training.
My besties Jen & Tara sweat it out in circuit training with me, making sure I am on track and on pace.
They've joined me on morning runs and circuit workouts in the hotel gym and training feels like fun and not self torture. Together we've found a way of keeping healthy and have fended off the vendors at the games. Let me tell you, healthy food options are far and few between with the restaurant selection here in OKC. We visited Wal-Mart our first day here and I was elated to find a box of Lara Bars and some cherries, so I've been getting some nutrients on this trip and have avoided the Waffle House thus far.
UCLA softball Alumni getting ready to cheer our Bruins to victory past Georgia.
Being a UCLA Alum, it is with a heavy heart and full tank that I continued training this week. After 99 years of life full to the brim, we lost one of the greatest coaches of all time, Coach John Wooden. Coach touched not only his basketball players, but all Bruin Athletes felt a part of his legacy and vowed to maintain it. He taught us to put our character up against our reputation at all times, and I feel blessed having met him.
Coach Wooden once said, "Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." Don't worry, Coach. Humidity, lack of healthy eating, or being stuck on a treadmill in Oklahoma won't keep my character out of all that do. Thanks Coach, hope you have a good seat to watch the Bruins beat the Cats tonight!
This week's training mileage total: 14 miles
Longest run: 4 miles with a pace of 9:20 (ahead of my pace!)
Cross training: 1 yoga class and 3 circuit training sessions.
Wore on my long run: Run:Energy SL and Run:Team Spirit Crops
In this humidity the Run:Energy SL and Run:Team Spirit Crops are just right. I felt cool and comfortable, and I've washed the tank twice so I can wear it virtually everyday in this humidity.
Here is my training schedule this week, join me and hold me accountable!
11 weeks until race day:
Monday: Yoga
Tuesday: 3.5 miles
Wednesday: 2 miles + circuit training
Thursday: 3.5 miles + circuit training
Friday: Rest (or yoga)
Saturday: 40 minutes cross training
Sunday: 5 miles
P.S. Really, really looking forward to all the vegetarian recipes you guys shared with me when I get home!
