I’m at the beach this week on a family vacation. Right now it’s my in-laws, Currie, and me. Jeff arrives later in the week. I love my in-laws like my parents so it’s a fun and relaxing way to vacation.
I keep thinking I’m training for a fall marathon here because:
- I’m always hot and sweaty
- Showering is rare – just going to get dirty again soon
- I’m eating like it’s my job. Hello beach buffets!
- I’m wearing as little as possible
- My running legs feel heavy
- Nothing can get in the way of a run
It’s interesting to compare this trip to our trip this time last year. Last year I was super fit, very lean and in AWESOME marathon shape. This year I’m in “ok” shape for any given distance, but not super shape in anything. I’m about a minute slower in the 5k, I’m guessing I’m a few minutes slower in a half marathon, and a marathon would probably be considerably slower.
Hanging out poolside with my little lady on our beach trip 2011.
Last September, at this same vacation spot, I was tearing up multiple sub-6-min-mile repeats with just 2 minute jog between and felt totally comfortable. This year, I’m doing easy runs and taking the more relaxing route. It’s interesting to look back at my training log and see the difference in my training. It’s not good or bad, just different.
I think we all need up and down months/years. What do you think? I have big goals for the next 4 years and I think the best way to get there is to hit it hard when I feel the urge, and keep it relaxed when I’m feeling low key. For now, I’m enjoying some nice, quiet time beachside.