Here’s where I am at with the 10 mentioned steps:
1. Let go of your mental limits – I want to say this is the easy part. Getting out of my head and letting go of my fears is something I struggle with during most of my races. I am trying to stay upbeat and believing anything is possible. I am VERY excited to start my targeted pace training in my marathon plan. I know this will be a big test.
2. Nutrition is huge – I have been paying very close attention to what I put into my body. Now that I am back at Crossfit, I seem to be always hungry. I bought more protein power last week. So I am making sure I have a recovery drink after my runs and workouts. I am also cooking more often and I am taking more healthy food to work. No excuses!
3. Start now – Yup I pretty much started the day after the Tucson Marathon. My head is in the game. I used January to build my base. I feel strong and ready to get into the training groove.
4. Find a plan and follow it was precision and passion – I’m using the Run Less, Run Faster plan. I get down to business next week. Stay tuned for an overview of the training philosophy.
5. Work toward the goal of being injury-proof – Hmm well … I do have this minor foot problem. I am trying not to freak out. I am taking it easy and not pushing too hard in my WODs and runs. I am strength training and rolling like a crazy person.
6. Stoke the fire within – I am reading blogs and magazines, and listening to podcasts. I may be a little obsessed. I am really enjoying our Canuck Facebook page. I am seriously inspired by the runners in the group.
7. Be patient – This isn’t my strong point but I am staying the course.
8. Seek out expert guidance – Lucky for me, I know a lot of experts in the fields of nutrition and fitness (and others who think they are experts!). I know I can count on them if I have a question or need advice. Amber, for instance, is my unofficial run guru who I can go to for all sorts of advice.
9. Live like a clock – I’ve been really good lately sticking to a training schedule. The key for me is to write down my game plan on Sunday nights. I review my work schedule and leave enough wiggle room for any last minute changes.
10. Enjoy it – Easiest step! I wouldn’t be trying to qualify for Boston, if I didn’t love running. Training can suck in the winter but I am determined to give my next marathon – Calgary Marathon – my best shot! I am also enjoying helping Brent train for his second half-marathon.
And that’s where I am today. I know I have a lot of work ahead. I have to shave 15 minutes off my marathon time to qualify. Yes that’s a LOT of time but I know with determination and focus anything is possible. As always I appreciate your comments and advice.
What do you think of the 10 steps? Do you have any additional words of wisdom of me?
Ooooh that Run Less Run Faster looks right up my alley! Thanks for sharing. I'll look forward to your next post about the philosophy.
Nutrition is the hardest for me – I want to eat everything in sight and I tell myself that I can, because I'm running. The irony is that the more crap I eat, the less of a quality run I have the next day – which only decreases the effectiveness of that statement 😉
Yeah I do like to eat (and drink wine) too. Sigh. Thanks for commenting.
I also thought this article was excellent! One thing I really thought helped me achieve my first BQ was Mental preparation. I just basically 'decided' that I was GOING to qualify no matter what. I believe in visualization + hard work. Being mentally tough is where the line gets drawn between you and the other runners in the late stages of the marathon. I also follow my plans to the absolute point. The key is to trust it on race day and know you're going to kick butt! 😉
Thanks Heather. That's really well put! Keep reminding me, okay? You're a great inspiration too!
Good luck!!!!
do you mean mental limits?? haha
Thanks for pointing out the typo! Damn spell check did not pick that one up.
I am no where NEAR that…but it helps me think about my goals…and race preparation to get me to a better place! I think your focus and your dedication to kickin it at crossfit (getting way stronger) will totally have you kick some assimus!
Thanks Tina. I just need the damn snow to melt (oh and to train hard!)
It's so hard to stay positive in this weather–good for you! I'm having a difficult time not psyching myself out right now. If you can be Boston-ready living in Alberta. . .well, I guess I can get my ass outside in the sub-zero temps of Ohio. Good luck!
Gosh I know, right? The weather sucks this winter everywhere in North America. Thanks for your nice words 🙂
Great article. I don't think Boston qualifying is ever in my future but some great tips!
Never say never 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
Great post Crystal. You can do this!! Other runners and their blogs are such inspirations and motivators…even if in other provinces/countries…we tend to motivate eachother through posts!! Can't wait to follow your training!!
Thanks so much! I am so motivated and inspirated when I read other blogs! Great kick in the butt.
Best of luck Crystal. Sounds like a good plan overall. ONe thing I do recommend is getting a copy of Matt Fitrzgerald's New Rules for Marathon and Half Marathon Training. It'll teach you more than you'll ever need to know about eating properly from week one to race day. And if you happen to see his other book, Run, while you're in the bookstore, that's a very worthy pick up as well.
Thanks! Great idea. I could always read another book! I'm going to head to Chapters! I've seen Run online but not in the stores. I'll take a look for it.
What a great looking plan. I love #10, it's so true. Mental preparedness is an area I really want to work on this year. I've done some digging and Competitive Edge: Mental Preparation for Distance Runners comes highly recommended. I look forward to following your training and success on race day!
Thanks for the suggestion! Another one to add to the collection!