Planning your running route could be important.

I now have 17 and 18 mile runs under my belt.  While they are difficult, I really feel a sense of accomplishment to just be able to run that far.  I am concerned at times about how I will ever be able to run 26.2 miles with my longest training run only being 20 miles, but I completely trust my program. 

For some reason, I have to make pit stops during my runs, especially morning runs.  I am really good with figuring out distances, and have tons of routes near my house figured out.  I set up routes where there are places to stop every 4-5 miles along my route.  For people who don’t have routes planned out, I wanted to provide you with two great website to plan your own routes.

http://www.plotaroute.com/

http://onthegomap.com

    

They are both easy websites to use and it is easily follow trails and roadways.  Both websites are free, which makes them even better.

I am in my 12th week of training for my first marathon.  It is a week where my plan steps back the mileage to let my body recover and prepare for my longest run of 20 miles next week.  My 12th week consists of:

Monday: 5 mile run

Tuesday: 5 mile run

Wednesday: 5 mile run

Thursday: Recovery/Rest

Friday: Recovery/Rest

Saturday: 8 mile run (at goal race pace)

Sunday: 13 mile run

Planning your route could be a lifesaver.  If you don’t have places to stop, you could always pack some baby wipes in a Ziploc bag and have it in your pocket just in case.  I guess my days in the Boy Scouts where they taught me to be prepared are showing though.  Have a great week!