Week 3 was still a recovery week, but after discovering I could run pain-free on Tuesday, I had a much brighter outlook. Training volume was still low, with alternating days of workout and rest, but I added length back in to the workouts, so it was a quality over quantity week, with quality being determined simply by feeling good while training.
Monday: First day back at work. I was completely and utterly exhausted. Even if I had wanted to, I wouldn’t have been able to workout.
Tuesday: 4.5 mile run on the track while my team did Yassos. I finally shook the exhaustion, and although I planned on walking the majority, I found I was able to run without that awful bouncing feeling I had last week. A major success! 4.65 miles at 10:09 average pace.
Wednesday: Rest.
Thursday: 45-minute spin class at Flywheel that was much harder than I imagined! I haven’t been on the bike in a long time, but this spin class was much more intense than a group ride. Urged on by the posted leaderboard in the room, I maintained intensity but fell apart at the weight lifting segment (with a 2-pound bar, yikes!).
Friday: Rest.
Saturday: 11-mile run around the Booty loop and through Bootyville with my coach, Paige. She has been coaching me as long as I have been involved in the fitness community in Charlotte, so I loved the opportunity to just catch up and chat with her. We kept it easy and light, taking several breaks to grab water or snacks. We stayed within the target pace, though, which was a huge success for me. 11 miles at 10:30 average pace
Sunday: Rest.
I am sure I have come across as being a bit anxious about the time off that’s necessary for recovery, but I really have embraced training by feel the past two weeks. I am an active person, and for me that brings sanity and release. Having to slow down, I was able to appreciate what my body is capable of and respect the limitations, grateful that they are temporary. I did keep workouts slow, and I refused to run if it caused any pain. I am looking forward to getting back on track with intensity and volume, but only because I have my doctor’s permission.
Weekly Totals:
Run: 15.65 miles
Cycle: 45 minutes