Of Mice and Marathons

Good move taking your scheduled rest day. When I built up my miles, I did 20 days on 1 off. After the day off, I'd add 10-15 miles onto the cycle - spread evenly across the week, which is hardly noticeable if you're doubling up. I had no problems going from 40 mpw to 100 mpw.

But once you get up to the 100 mark you're terrified (slight exaggeration there) to miss a run: you think all your fitness will go, which is mad. But I have noticed when I skip/miss a run that I don't feel better - in fact, my legs ache more and the niggles tend to aggravate more. I think that at 'some point' it becomes more beneficial to lessen the miles of a run rather than skip the run.

All the same, you're right to take the day off and keep going the way you are -your body will recover and adapt during the rest day.

Jason, Sorry if I asked you this before. What program are you in at Purdue?

I'm in the English department, Adam.

Thank you. My cousin went there for Chemical Engineering and loved it. In my career I am at the transition to faculty and always looking for opinions on different schools so thought I'd check to see if you were in the sciences...

nice workout today, jason. i think your goal is very reasonable based on the pace you held during this workout and the time you have before your marathon. also, never underestimate the power of the taper and race-day adrenaline. that boost can be pretty remarkable. good luck with your training. you are doing great.

8 miles @ MGP at this stage is probably where you should be. Each week, increase the miles on the tempo and as you lock-in the pace, it'll become easier. Stick at it - you'll surprise yourself.

Thank you both for your encouragement.