In training for the Chicago Marathon, I have three 20 mile runs scheduled (yes, I may be certifiably insane :-) The first one was 3 weeks ago, and it rained for the first 13 miles, which sort of set the scene for what turned out to be a terrible time. But, I finished and wasn't too sore the next day, so I couldn't complain.
I ran the second 20 miler yesterday. I typically do an out and back route, but this time I had two friends running with me and we ran from my house in Libertyville to the Wisconsin border (via the Des Plains River Trail). Temperature wise, it was a PERFECT day for running - low 50's. However, there was a 10-15 mph headwind the entire way. About mile 10, I was wishing for that out and back route - a tail wind would have been nice - but we pushed on.
I ended up finishing in just over 2:52 (we took a couple very short walk breaks that I did not count toward my time nor mileage)...Here are a few things I learned (and/or confirmed) on this run:
- Running with others really does make it easier - I probably would have stopped and rested a couple times and/or turned around to get that tail wind if I hadn't had others with me. But the others kept me going toward the goal of running to Wisconsin!
- Head winds suck - a couple times we went up hills with the wind blowing directly in our faces - that's not a good feeling! But in hind-sight, it was great training!
- The 2nd run at any distance is WAY easier than the first - If you're training for a marathon (or a half marathon), and you struggle through a long run, keep pushing forward, the second time at the same mileage is WAY easier!
- Water and Gatorade are essential for long runs - I use a belt with six small bottles, while the others used a Camel back and a backpack with a larger water bottle in it. I was by far the happiest as I was able to mix up the liquids.
- My wife is AWESOME! Come on - she drove 20 miles one way to pick up three stinky guys, then was stuck in a car for 30 minutes with us
6 weeks until the Chicago Marathon - no clue what pace I should shoot for...we'll see how my next 20 miler goes.
Get out there and run!
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Did you put a tarp down in the car to sit on before you drove home? All that sweat soaking into the cushions...Congrats on making it through the second long run!
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