On March 31st, I ran the Encinitas half marathon for the third year in a row. I have a strong connection to Encinitas, so when they started doing half marathons three years ago, I couldn’t resist. My first two races were euphoric but this year was a bear!!! I struggled with the training, but also failed to get that race day “adrenaline” runners love so much. In hindsight, I knew I broke a cardinal rule of running races. I started out too fast and lost steam around mile 8. By mile 10, my mental energy plummeted and I feared my body would collapse. I was really struggling!!! What happened??? These races were always the high point of my year.
Endurance is More Mental than Physical
They say that endurance sports require more mental strength than physical strength. This was true for me last Sunday! My body was on the verge of collapsing but my mind refused to give up. Runners know there is nothing scarier than “hitting a wall” during a race. All of a sudden your legs turn to Jell-O and your body borders on collapsing. I was keenly aware of other runners moving to the side to rest or stop. My body was screaming to join them – but my mind was not going to give in.
Part stern parent, “Don’t give up now”, part compassionate coach, “C’mon you can do this” helped me get over the wall. Despite my body’s pleas, – stopping was NOT an option!!! If I stopped – it was over!! So, I slowed down and persevered!!!
When to Give Up and When to Keep Going
Training was harder this year than prior years. Rain and cooler temperatures threw off my schedule and hampered my recovery. Recurring pain made running arduous and unpleasant.
Concerned friends asked, “Why don’t you just stop??” — A question I had to consider!! Why WAS I doing this when the fun was being vacuumed up?
I didn’t have to think hard as I already knew the answer. I made a commitment to myself. That’s it!!
Having Help and a Support
I’m not sure I could have endured without my husband as my “support staff”. It was such a luxury to have his help. There were countless mornings I’d consult with him about the weather and if I should risk running in the rain or wear an extra layer. And there was nothing better than when he’d rub my sore feet or draw an Epsom salt bath for my weary body.
If no one can be your support staff then schedule extra self-care and ****find someone you can talk to about your running experience. Sharing your weekly experiences is so important for strategy and confidence.
In the End
Despite my struggles, I finished with my best time yet for the Encinitas Half Marathon. I enjoy working hard towards a goal because I grow so much during the process. When it’s over, I am overcome with gratitude that I challenged myself. I was reminded that life isn’t always easy and it’s ok to struggle.
For additional half marathon tips please read these articles:
- Encinitas Half Marathon Notes 2018
- 5 Exciting Benefits of Running a Half Marathon
- Half Marathon Self Discipline and Training Tips for Vegans
