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"run happy"
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“Running is a big question mark that’s
there each and every day. It asks you,
‘Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?’”
– Peter Maher, Olympian and sub-2:12 marathoner
In spite of my extreme trepidation about my longest run so far (12.12 miles!!!)... It ended up being a pretty great success! This past Saturday was my first 'legitimate' long run (legitimate in my terms means a more realistic outdoor run, as opposed to my treadmilling like normal) and I lucked out with a gorgeous day for it :)
I was extremely proud that I was able to run the entire distance, with only a brief stop to figure out where I was, haha. I made a conscious effort to run part on pavement, part on trail, and while this slowed my progress a little halfway through, I think it was necessary (although my joints may not agree).
It was a struggle, absolutely, being 2 miles longer than my previous longest distance, but I finished it (which was my goal) and even managed some degree of grace :)
My nerves have been working overtime as I continue my internal debate over whether 26.2 miles is longer than I can possibly dream to run. As I approach my half marathon training mark, all I can do is keep moving forward, hoping to continue to build my endurance and keep my fingers crossed for some nice weather soon.
Proud doesn't even begin to describe how I’ve been feeling about my accomplishments so far, and I will take hold of that feeling and bring it with me as my companion on my next run!
Mile splits:
1- 9:57
2- 9:17
3- 9:11
4- 9:49
5- 9:35
6- 11:17
7- 10:09
8- 10:27
9- 10:27
10- 10:23
11- 10:43
12- 10:04
Average: 10:11 minute mile
