Enjoying the long runs...

Yesterday was the first run in a while where the temperature was not horrible.  It was still humid but a comfortable temperature.  It was overcast (no sun beating down on us), and I was trying out my Nathan’s women’s hydration backpack which holds two liters of water!  Even though the women’s pack is almost too big, it felt great once I got used to it.  I definitely prefer it to a fuel belt.  Of course the week I have more than enough water is the week it is normal, tolerable summer weather…

It sounds odd, even to myself, to say I enjoyed running for two hours straight, but I did.  I can trust Max to pace us well, and   I’ve started relaxing into a rhythm where I listen to my body and run comfortably (unless I’m listening to Max slowing me down J).  Whether it’s because I’m more mentally prepared for long runs, or because I didn’t want to be annoying when I first started running with Max and Megan, I am no longer asking our mileage every mile or so as I often used to do with Bennett (it’s ok to annoy your husband like that).  A few mileage checks along the way are enough to keep me aware of where we are in the run.  This letting go of the obsessive need to know our mileage or speed at any given moment has been good for simply enjoying the conversation or the quiet.  Letting my feet hit the ground and simply enjoy running outside for…well for hours…

When I first registered for the marathon, I had doubts whether I would enjoy training with the months of focused running and Saturday mornings dedicated to long runs.  I wanted to try; but I had doubts.  I had very mixed feelings about long runs during half marathon training, although I did enjoy the race itself.  But enjoying a race, with all the crowds and race endorphins, did not mean I would enjoy 4 months of long runs. 

Finishing up the last mile of my 12 mile run yesterday, I realized something.  I have so far enjoyed all of my long runs.  Yes, I have a long way to go, but I’m 7 weeks in to training, and I’m enjoying my long runs…not just tolerating them…not mixed feelings about them…but enjoying them.  I’m sure I will have one or two I hate; things can’t always go well, But the fact that I finished up my 12 miles with a faster last mile and felt great… well, it’s helping me trust in my training more.  It’s a bit too early to say I enjoy being a marathon runner, but I might be heading in that direction.