The Importance of Rest

Tuesday, I accomplished my very last "long run" before the Pittsburgh Marathon. If you have been following me then you know that in 9 days I will be running my very first 26.2 mile marathon.

So I woke up, got ready and ate my breakfast. 

A Panera whole grain bagel, apple sauce, and a hard boiled egg. The egg wasn't fully cooked so I didn't get to eat it. So I I ate and finished getting ready for my run. 13.1 miles. I've learned that I have to go to a trail that takes me somewhere. If I go into a circle then I'll go back to my car and not do my run.

On this run I was feeling really good. I didn't want to push it because I'll do that on marathon day. I kept at my slow pace going through 3 towns, 2 school districts, 1 great run. I took roads that I have never been on before. I live exploring on my feet. By mile 10 though, I hit a wall. I was starving. I didn't take food with me since I didn't think I would be gone too long. My knees and calves hurt too. I was supposed to go to CrossFit later that day but didn't make it. When I got home I iced my legs and ate food. 

When I started my run it was raining. It wasn't hard so I tested out my new rain coat. It was hot. It felt like I was wearing a garbage bag. By the end, the sun came out. With in bring home for 15 minutes, I had a hail storm a loud burst of thunder. 

The next day, everything still hurt. As much as I wanted to go to CrossFit, I couldn't. I needed rest. My body needed a break. I took Wednesday off and made it for Thursday. 

If something hurts, just take the day off. I personally believe resting more is way more benifical than training like crazy. Your body needs rest! Rest, ice, compression, elevation. My favorite rest day equipment is my foam roller. If you don't have a foam roller and want one, most stores have them for less than $25. They really help roll out your legs and back. 

I can't believe that we are 9 days away from the marathon! Are you ready?