Gearing up for training!!

So I got my training plan all marked up in my training journal so I know exactly how much time I have left to get ready for training. Basically I have a month to get back into regular running, and now that I have a deadline looming I suddenly feel very motivated. This is why signing up for races work so well. You run out of excuses because it's sink or swim baby!

The training plan I am using is the same as the one I used for my last two half marathons. For the Publix I didn't train enough before it was time to really start adding the miles, so that was why I was injured. The one before went really well because I trained pretty consistently, and I felt pretty good.

For those that are looking for good training plans, I like the ones that are available for free on Hal Higdon's website. Free is awesome :) Plus the site has good advice and training plans for all levels. If those don't float your boat there are lots to choose from online.

Staying busy

Well despite the best of intentions, my running suffered quite a bit over the last 6 weeks. Work was crazy and my foot gave me lots of issues, not to mention the crazy weather we've been having in the Atlanta area. I swear there has only been one dry weekend since I last posted.

So now I think my schedule will begin cooperating with me. My foot is better after a few trips to the podiatrist. Unfortunately it still hasn't stopped raining but oh well. I am still running a half marathon in October, so I have to get back into training mode soon. I am looking forward to that since I can tell I'm about to start gaining weight back if I don't start doing something more active than sitting.

Some things I will try this summer:

• Speed work - I attempted it last summer and it seemed to help
• Hills - I can run 3 miles on a flat surface, but for some reason hills get me right now. Must work on that to build stronger muscles
• Strength training - I didn't realize how good it was for training until I stopped

So those are my goals. Let's see how I do!