Let’s see what my body can handle!

So I was supposed to run 18 miles in week 11.  I decided to explore a little and ended up doing 19 miles.  I actually felt okay, although I was really sore and couldn’t keep the pace I wanted to.  I was really pleased with the run though.  I got back to my house and decided I was going to soak in an Epsom salt bath.  I took off my shoes and I was horrified by what I saw.  It looked like both of my heels were badly bruised and blistered, which baffled my mind since my feet felt good on my run. 

 

After a little scrubbing of my heels, I found out that the cause of my heel issues were my new black socks.  I wore them without washing them and they turned my skin black.  There weren’t even any blisters, just a little swelling.  Other than being slightly sore, my body handled the run like a champ.  I bounced back from that run really quickly too. 

I am in my 13th week of training for my first marathon, which consists of:

Monday: Cycle 18 miles

Tuesday: 5 mile run

Wednesday: 8 mile run

Thursday: Cycle 15 miles

Friday: Rest

Saturday: 5 mile run (at race pace)

Sunday: 20 mile run

I am really excited to run my 20 mile run this weekend.  I was running 13 miles last night and I can’t believe that my easy week long run is 13 miles.  A year and a half ago, running that far was a huge struggle.  I love running and am constantly surprised with what my body can handle.  It once again proves that your body can do way more than you think it can.  Just make sure to train properly in order to avoid injury.  I strongly recommend following a training plan.  There are tons of free plans out there. Have a great day and enjoy your running!