Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Keeping it Fun

I figured out a way to take an afternoon break during my work day yesterday and get out for a 5 mile run. Today will be a rest day. Finding a way to get out tomorrow is my next challenge.

The problem with running yesterday was that it was supposed to be my rest day. I really felt it in my legs. But since it was supposed to be an easy run anyway, I just slowed down a bit more and tried to enjoy the afternoon. I was running on a portion of the acequia path that I've never been on before. This particular section wasn't as pretty as my usual route, but it was still interesting and I got to run on dirt, which is my favorite.

Most weeks, I don't have much trouble fitting in my runs. The time change makes it a bit more difficult, but my problem this week is mostly due to an unfortunate work schedule. But my main goal for the next two months is just to get out and run. There is no reason to stress about this. I'm not training for anything big right now, just doing short, fun races here and there to maintain my base over winter. This is something I need to remember. Keeping it fun is most important right now.

Which brings me to my dilemma for this weekend. Had the 11K not been on my radar for months, this decision would be a no brainer. And the more I look into it, the 5K has a lot in its favor. It starts later in the morning, is much closer to home, and is on a dirt path (oh, yeah!). Really, the more I think about it, it's hard to imagine any reason why I would choose the 11K at this point.

Later in the evening, Husband asked how my run had been. I told him that it really wasn't one of my better runs. My legs were feeling it, and it was a bit of a struggle. He replied, "But it was better than not running, right?" He was absolutely right. A mediocre run on a dirt path on a fall afternoon beats no run, every time!

19 comments:

  1. It is sounding more and more like the locak 5K is a better option. Have fun with it!

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  2. Better than not running, indeed! Sounds like you are really leaning towards that 5K rather than the 11K!

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  3. Have fun with the 5K. Better than stressing over the 11K.

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  4. Go with what your really feeling. That sounds like the 5k.

    ...better than no run at all. Ahmen!

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  5. Yup... My worst run is better than most peeps best day sitting on their butts :-)

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  6. It sounds like the 5K is the obvious choice for you :-D

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  7. Yes, its 'maintenance mode' time around my parts. No races...just run for the health of it.

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  8. Good luck on your decision.

    Do you get a Santa Suit for the Jingle Bell Run?

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  9. I reckon go with the 'no brainer' :), ignore the 'shoulds' and do the one you really want to do :)

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  10. I agree...better than not running at all! Way to go! :0) The 5K sounds like a good run to me, too!

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  11. Well, YEAH! I could have told you that a long time ago. ;)

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  12. It sounds like you're leaning toward that 5k. :) Either way, you'll have a race report that I'm looking forward to reading!

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  13. That 5k sounds like a good option to me. I'm so grateful I can run early in the morning before work and get it done. I'm lucky I can do that

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  14. nothing wrong with switching races! the most important part about running is that you enjoy it - not how far or how fast you run.

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  15. Aren't we miserable enough when we race? Might as well do the 5k if your heart's in it.

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  16. I love running or biking over lunch. Highlight of the day.

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  17. sounds like you are more up for the 5k if so then just switch. Have fun

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