Thursday, January 7, 2016

Trust and the coach

For the past week, I have been harboring a little secret. Today I shared it with Becky. After I told her, she shrugged her shoulders, which I took to mean it was ok. In Becky, I trust. Coach Extraordinaire. Super Woman. Wise Sage.

I knew my coach was a superhero, but it was confirmed today!
photo by Buckshot Images
I've been off the road for almost a week now, letting my foot rest so the devil in my plantar fascia can chill out. I've been pedalling away on my bike trainer, posting yoga poses for the Sweatpink #flexandflow challenge, and lifting all the weights with Becky. I can clean and I can squat. I've been wearing my deadlift shoes. I've been diligently stretching and rolling my foot.

By the way, Becky confirmed what I already suspected: yes, cycling does aggravate the plantar fascia. Certainly not as much as running, but yes, there is some aggravating going on. Damn it.

The one thing I'm not doing this week is running. And to tell you the truth, I'm not missing running right now. At all.

There it is. And it isn't even Runfessions...

It's no wonder I'm having night sweats...

I haven't told anyone this until today. I feel a little funny saying it here. After all, I'm a runner. I do all things running. I write about it. I talk about it. I love it.

But let's stop and think about it. To meet my mileage goal at the end of the year, I did run a lot more running than when I would normally be winding down. Becky told me today that I ran way more last year than she would have liked. She said she understood my need to meet the goal. But it was a lot of miles.


While I'm on this little break, I'm kind of enjoying pedalling in the comfort of my family room. I'm having fun picking out cycling videos on YouTube. So far I've ridden in Italy, France, and Australia. It's not all fun and games and pretty scenery, though. When I climb off the bike, I'm sweating profusely. And it wasn't because of that guy in the France video who was wearing white bike shorts. White shorts and endurance sports should never happen. Just sayin'. No, I know I'm working hard because I've been wearing my heart rate monitor, and I've been riding in my target HR zone--between 140-160 BPM.

And because my foot is still bothering me, I'll take one more week before I head back out to the road. No one even had to twist my arm. It's supposed to be brutally cold this weekend anyways. Icy. Snowy. Cold. Brrr.

What? The cold never bothered me before. Am I getting soft?

Nah. Just a little burned out. Wrecked. 

No worry, I'll be out there soon enough. I've got a spring marathon to train for! Oh, that. Today, I asked Becky about a training plan. Her response?

"This isn't like your last one. You're supposed to just enjoy this one!" 

Wait...no training plan? Yes, Becky's right, Big Sur is all about the experience, but it is still 26.2 freaking miles! With a few hills. 2000 feet of them. Says the flatlander. 

Becky is hoping that a lot of the weight training I'm doing will prepare me for the hills. After this strength cycle is complete, there's going to be more plyometrics and HIIT again. But mentally, I do need to do some hill training. Some speed work too. And some long runs. I'm going to piecework some kind of plan together. Experience will pay off here. I wouldn't recommend this approach if you haven't run a marathon before.

While I have 100% trust in my coach, I plan on working on that training plan this weekend. 

Today while I was at CrossFit, a woman from Becky's class introduced herself to me. She told me she reads my blog. She also told me she loves my pictures. Living in the area, she says can usually figure out where I take them, but she told me that they always look like some exotic locale. Well, how fun was hearing that? I always try to find beauty even in an area that isn't known for its ambiance. It's there. It all depends on your perspective.


Let's see if she can figure out where I took this one for SweatPink's #flexandflow challenge. Taking this picture was a mini-adventure. I was on my way home from yoga class and found the perfect spot for the pose of the day. As I was setting up to take this picture, I noticed a small dog running through the park. I watched him run, I realized it wasn't a small dog at all. It was a coyote! Luckily, he wasn't interested in me--they never are, I'm all gristle--and kept on going. Crisis averted. I set the timer on my phone and started to back up, getting myself in position to take the picture. I didn't realize I was standing on the edge of a hill, which was coated with an icy crust. My tree started to slide down the hill and I couldn't stop! I fell forward, put my hands down on the crusty surface, and clawed my way to the top of the slope. Just like a mountain climber, right? I looked around to make sure no one saw me, resumed the pose, and snapped the picture.


Completly unintentional.

Namaste.

Do you ever get burnt out on running or any other activity? What do you do to get your head back in the game? Any funny selfie stories?

Today I'm linking up this post with the DC Trifecta: Courtney, Cynthia, and Mar!



82 comments :

  1. I was definitely burnt out on running after my marathon last year. It was a massive bump in mileage and it was almost all on my own. I'm trying to run more with other people and mix things up with yoga and maybe even some other cross training! ;)

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    1. In a way, it's good that I have to start training again. I don't know how long it would be otherwise!

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  2. First of all, laughing about your outtake story...more often than not that is what happens to most of us!! Also, loving Becky's laid back attitude about the training. Watching your progress last year, she knows what she is doing and you have proved that! You aren't a novice, throw 3-4 runs in there and you've totally got this :)

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  3. LOL on the behind-the-scenes story! I think my forced time off from running last year kept me from burning out. But, I am going on vacation next week and not packing running stuff, so there's that!

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    1. Now I do love to run on vacation...that would probably be a mental game changer for me!

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  4. I was so on the edge of my seat when Becky told you you ran way more than she would have liked I thought Oh crap she's fixing to get it now... I. So envy the relationship and knowledge Becky and you have. Probably a runfession here too but I think I was right on the edge of that place where running wasn't fun anymore. I started way to early training hence my resolution of having fun. I'm so glad you shared this with us even the selfie mishap :)

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    1. I think that saying we don't miss running is the one thing we all don't want to admit. Kind of like saying that you don't like your children or your spouse. Which you know at times is true...

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  5. This? This is why I chose not to run my third Boston. Because the kind of training I did for my Bostons, for me, is not sustainable. Not in an enjoyable, injury-free way. Yeah I could have jacked around in Boston, but I know I would have given everything to train for it. It deserves everything. For me more isn't always better. Glad you are enjoying the change up. Lemonade out of lemons.

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    1. I always love your perspective. I think that's what makes you such a good coach (and friend!).

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  6. I didn't know you were running Big Sur. Congrats! That was suppose to be my first marathon but I was sidelined with injury. Lacey has run it twice now and said it was beautiful. Challenging, but beautiful!

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  7. Chin UP, my FrIeNd ;-) I don't ever get burnt out from running, but I do get burnt out from training and having to follow a regimented plan. YUCK. Not for this free-spirited gal. Also, I know myself well enough to accept that high-mileage goals (weekly, monthly, or yearly) will do me NO good. I like the challenge, and I respect that goals will keep me accountable...but (for me) running isn't all about the numbers (though it is fun to have those accomplishments). Ha...I'm not an elite, nor am I an Olympian....so I refuse to train like one ;-) And about the selfie mishap.....#beentheredonethat. I do most of my post-run selfies near my front porch, and it never fails, that's when everyone decides to do a drive-by LOL

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    1. I was SO glad no one was at the park. Whenever that happens, I always look around for Candid Camera...

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  8. Since I had forced rest the last 2 years as well I wasn't really burnt out on running. Cycling did not bother my PF maybe if you don't stand up? Have you tried Peloton videos they are fun classes. Becky sounds like a wise woman

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    1. I don't stand up in the pedals, but I do pedal hard. It's still better for my foot than running.

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  9. Confession: I haven't been burnt out by running, but I have taken some breaks where I didn't miss it. Cycling can aggravate PF because it still engages the calf muscles that connect to the achilles and the PF. I hope that you get some relief soon, regardless!

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    1. I'm going to make that appt with the sports chiro next week...

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  10. I have definitely been burned out from running. Heck, this year I was burned out from life. After a hellish summer at my job, I took a leave of absence and ultimately resigned. I just needed a break. I'm also currently on IR and an hoping to be back running in a month or so. I have some knee issues and am in PT to get stronger. Like you, I'm pedaling on the spin bike at the gym through faraway places. Maybe I'll try France today... :) -C

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    1. You sound like me. I have considered that LOA but financially it would be hard on my family.

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  11. Good for you for pulling back! I feel like a change of pace is needed every few months or so...at least for me. And - I've had plantar facitis (I know I spelled that wrong)....so painful!! Hope it gets better soon!

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    1. My PF has definitely calmed down with a few days off the road. It has to get better! I have a marathon to train for...

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  12. At a different level, but I felt as though I were reading my own story. You already know how much the half marathon took out of me, and I don't even feel like running right now, thinking of taking a couple of months off, maybe walk on the treadmill a couple of times a week, certainly keep up with my daily stretching, and starting (almost) from scratch in late February/early March. I think the break will do me good mentally. I'm exhausted.

    I wish there were a film of your behind-the-scenes. They make the best shows! Ah, illusion. I pictured you as Harold Lloyd hanging from the massive clock on the side of a building.

    The filter you use is fantastic. I, we all, love your photos.

    May the plantar fasciitis force leave you soon and forever.

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    1. It's nice to know that I'm not alone, feeling a little burnt out. I'm starting to feel ready to hit the road again. I think part of me is afraid to wake up that devil in my arch. He reminds me of his presence every now and then.

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  13. I think feeling burnt out is our body and mind's way of reminding us we need to a take a break from our usual routine.

    I weight train a lot more in the winter because like you said, it's very cozy being inside!

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  14. I haven't burnt out on running yet, but then again, I haven't been running anywhere near as long as you. Or as many miles as you, either.

    I do get tired of it at the end of a training cycle.

    Here's hoping that PF quiets down so you can enjoy Big Sur. Because you should -- it's so freaking beautiful there.

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    1. I cannot wait to run it. That's going to sustain me through the winter training.

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  15. I've totally gotten burnt out before. It's totally normal!!! This break sounds like something you need. Hope that foot calms down for you soon.

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  16. OMG, You poor girl, plantar fasciitis can be really hard to deal with. Is it definitely plantar fasciitis sometimes other foot problems can mimic PF. Keep up with the positive attitude

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    1. For sure it's PF. I had the sports med doc check me out at work as well as my coach. Blech.

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  17. So sorry about the PF, but I guess it kinda helps that you don't have the itch to run, huh?! I've definitely gotten burnt out before and enjoyed not running. The desire will come back eventually, but after a lot of miles and training, it's nice to take a little break from it. I'm surprised Becky isn't giving you a plan for Big Sur. Like you said, it is still a marathon! You don't have to train for time, but you still need to train for the distance.

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    1. That's what I said. I'm going to manage my miles for this one and let her handle the intervals, I guess!

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  18. It is SO HOT on the trainer! I really enjoyed getting into HR data while injured. It was the only way to know if my cycling and pool running was the correct intensity. So, now I'm addicted. My new watch has wrist based HR, where before I wore my strap. Yay. I can get all geeky with it. It's OK not to miss running. There were weeks when my bike really kept me happy. Hey, I clocked 700+ miles in 3 months on it. I must have enjoyed it! I hope your foot feels better soon.

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    1. You did enjoy a lot of time on your bike. I love my bike. It's always there for me.

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  19. I've definitely been burnt out on running and I've had the same feelings where when I take a break I don't really miss it. It's nice to have a chance to do other things. But it definitely messes with your head a little when you always identify yourself as a runner.

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  20. lol at your story about the picture! hilarious. i took a week off after my 20th race last year and didn't miss running for that week at all! breaks are good!!

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    1. I'm starting to want to run again, so I think that's a good sign...

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  21. I really missed running when I broke my ankles but then again, I was out for 5 months. It seemed that every time I got in the car, I saw someone running.

    Hope your foot heals quickly and you can train for your next big one!

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  22. I have never ran a full marathon, not sure how you all do it :) I enjoy running 2 or 3 half marathons a year and honestly I look forward to my break in December/January. I do enjoy running but that break is needed each year!

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    1. There is something about crossing the finish line after running 26.2. I can't explain it. But it's life changing!

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  23. I ran 2600 miles in 2009 - a goal I do not recommend! Meb can run 4,500 miles in a year, this old gal can't. We went to Indianapolis for Christmas that year and I had to run 57 miles in four days when we got home to hit that goal. I was so burned out after that! That's when I got a mountain bike and started enjoying my local trails. Now I cross train consistently and I'm a happier, injury free runner.

    "White shorts and endurance sports should never happen." I could not agree more!

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    1. I do love my cross training! I'm looking forward to running and biking in the summer when I won't be training for a marathon in the fall!

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  24. I think it's SO normal to feel that way! I'm beyond happy I am back to triathlon training after running two marathons last year. Seriously!! I'm sure you will find your running happy place again but everyone needs a break once and a while. And, as far as I can tell, there is nothing "soft" about you!!

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    1. Believe it or not, I'm starting to want to run again. I think that's a good sign!

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  25. Hahah! You crack me up. I agree, I would definitely need a training plan even for a "fun" marathon. Because 26.2 miles and all... I hope your PF clears up quickly!

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  26. Damn PF! Enjoy the change up in routine - I'm thinking it's always good to take a step back every now and then.

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    1. I like the break because it makes me love running all over again!

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  27. Sure hope that foot calms down soon!! I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the rest time. I have learned (the hard way with injury) that rest is SOOO important. And our lovely Chicago winters make it easier to take it easy if you ask me. I don't think I'll be attending Tuesday run club with our "real feel" of sub zero temps Tuesday night.

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  28. Totally loving your story LOL. I'd totally do something like that.

    I'm not loving running myself right now - not sure why. I'd much rather go to the gym and workout on the elliptical and read, but I'm making myself run a few runs a week so that getting back into training isn't impossible.

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    1. That's exactly why I won't take off more than 2 weeks. Otherwise it will be hard.

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  29. I burn out on my fitness classes (I'm an instructor) all the time. I adjust my schedule a bit, or get a sub for a week or two, recharge, then get back at it. You'll be fine once you recharge - and kudos for accepting that sometimes it's not only okay but GOOD to take a break!

    Also, the cross training WILL help. I focused more on lifting and group ex this past summer/fall/winter, with less than 10 miles of running over something like five months, then stepped onto a Turkey Trot course and PR'ed my 5k by over two minutes. Thanks cross training! Get strong, it always helps!

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    1. Absolutely. I'm really enjoying this strength cycle. Becky always makes it interesting. And now I can clean a barbell. Who knew?

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  30. Sounds like you needed the break! I often think that I'm glad I'm a triathlete because "just" being a runner would bore me...and of course if I couldn't run and didn't bike or swim, life would suck! Still, running is my favorite sport and I can't spend too long away from it. Rest that PF and you'll be ready for Big Sur no problem! By the way, a friend of mine ran it after doing other much flatter marathons and got a PR! She went into it planning just to have fun and not worry about time, so that must be the key!

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    1. Really? That's so encouraging! Hills are not my friend, but on the other hand, I'm not feeling particularly nervous about it...

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  31. I got burnt out by running after my marathon and feel like it's taken me over a year to recover. That and writing and talking about it all the time. Sometimes you just need a break. I find when I cycle in regular shoes (my gym has the baskets) that hurts my foot. Not sure what you are pedaling in but cycling shoes are much more supportive and comfortable to me.

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    1. I have clip in cycling shoes. But like Susie said, you use your calves and achilles and that pulls on the plantar fascia.

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  32. I find that my annual "I hate running" breaks tend to do wonders mentally (and possibly physically, too). I'm keeping my fingers crossed about your PF issues. Enjoy the break and you'll come back stronger than ever!

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  33. I do not get burned out with running...have not yet. And then couple of times I've had to take a week off, I have really missed it. I burned myself out on spinning. I did it for a couple of years and now it's been over 6 months since I've gone to a spin class. Don't miss it. I don't know why because I really loved it for a little while there.

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    1. I would love spin. But I wouldn't do it all the time. For me it's a great way to cross train!

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  34. I do get burnt out, sometimes I take several days off and then get back to it when I'm feeling I can give my all.

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  35. Burnout! After my first ultra training and race. We put so much mental and physical focus and effort into running. It took time to be comfortable with (and to stop questioning my sanity) not really wanting to run but after that it was like a breath of fresh air.

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  36. I love your pictures too !
    My selfies are not that great. I secretly want a selfie stick. Its my birthday soon, so I should probably start dropping hints.

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    1. I don't have a selfie stick, but I'm intrigued! I really want a Go Pro.

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  37. Taking a brief break is so good for both the body and the mind. Hope you enjoy another week off from running, and hopefully your foot will be ready to go next week!

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  38. Ok so its not just me! I havent run since Jan 1st and I am quite ok with that. I have every intention of running this morning but couldn't find everything i needed and so I didn't go and was quite alright. I did legs instead!

    I have a football tournament next weekend and will be glad when that is over to. I am ready for a break from that too.

    It will all past and soon I will be itching for both ;)

    A coyote...oh heck no!!!

    Wow-I would have even thought that bike riding would aggravate the PF-so interesting.

    Great yoga pose. Sorry you fell but your story and the trust fall pic made me laugh.

    Sounds like Becky might just know what she is talking about.

    I am sure your marathon plan will have you well trained to run strong AND enjoy it.

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    1. Glad to know that I'm in good company. Altho the current stress I'm under at work makes me want to run. But I made myself a promise to rest this foot, and I know I need this!

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  39. I was burnt out during marathon training so I missed running the marathon in 2014. It took me about 2 months to finally get back to running.

    Your story about your pose sure made me laugh. Sorry you fell.

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    1. It wasn't a big deal, once I was able to crawl back up the hill! Actually, it made me laugh and relax to get into the pose!

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  40. Namaste is right! You do need break every once in awhile, it does a body and spirit good! I always wondered how you get so many great shots but please don't slide off a cliff!

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  41. I have been super burned out with running too! I'm spending the cold months focused on track work and strength training! Hopefully that means next race season I'll be stronger and faster! Thanks for sharing!

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    1. I hope you get your mojo back! Having a coach keeps me accountable!

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