I did it!

I did it! I am finally over my sickness and back on my training plan for the half marathon I'm running in four weeks. Normally I don't run on Mondays (I usually strength train) but I was feeling antsy this morning and decided to go for a short, slow three miler.

I expected to be exhausted after a whole week of no running, but I surprisingly made it through with energy to spare. Since then I have been smiling and energized, ready to tackle whatever the day throws at me; which is exactly why I love running. Getting fresh air (well sort of, LA has a bit of a smog problem), your blood flowing, and your heart pumping all at the same time is refreshing and invigorating. Whether it be a short 3 miler or a long 10 miler, running always lightens my mood and burns unnecessary stress.

I won't lie, I was really bummed I couldn't run last week. With only five weeks left, I should have been racking up my miles and starting speed drills. This was added stress I didn't need. In my despair, I read a lot of Runner's World training articles....and I mean a LOT....I read a lot of good tips about tapering, injury prevention, beginner's training, and mid-training slumps, and was able to focus myself and plan out my training for the next month.

All of this being pro active really helped me center myself and stop feeling sorry for myself for being sick. The three miler this morning and the TRX circuit training class I'm about to take will be the perfect starters for four weeks of intense training. BRING IT ON!

P.s. Here are some of the Runner's World articles I enjoyed:

http://askcoachjenny.runnersworld.com/2010/09/10-tips-for-first-time-half-and-full-marathoners.html

http://www.womens-running.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-301--10200-0,00.html

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-520-492-14282-0,00.html

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-520-492-13660-0,00.html