Marathon Journey Week 8

This week was incredible. It finally felt like exactly what a training week is supposed to be. But looking back, I know I wouldn’t have gotten here if I hadn't listened to my body earlier; I probably would have been sidelined with an injury.

By Monday and Tuesday, I felt so strong that I decided to increase my walking pace. I started at my usual 3.0 mph, but after a minute, my body said, "We can do more." On Thursday, I pushed myself further by adding an extra minute to my final jog interval. Then came Saturday—the outdoor run was amazing. I jogged faster than usual and, while I worried I was pushing too hard at first, the final intervals felt great. Since I wasn't on a flat surface, my legs feel that good kind of tired today. I might be sore tomorrow, but I feel on top of the world right now.

I am so proud of this progress. It felt like it took a long time to get here, but I’ve finally figured out what works for me.

Week 8 Log (4/5 – 4/11)

• Sunday: Rest

• Monday: Walk (3.0 mph for 25 min) — 1.24 miles

• Tuesday: Walk/Jog (20 min total). Intervals: 4 min walk / 1 min jog. Increased last jog to 2 minutes. (Total including 5 min cool down: 1.39 miles)

• Wednesday: Walk (Increased to 3.2 mph for 24 min) — 1.31 miles

• Thursday: Walk/Jog (20 min total). Intervals at 3.2 mph walk / 4.8 mph jog. Increased last jog to 2 minutes. (Total including 5 min cool down: 1.45 miles)

• Friday: Walk (3.2 mph for 25 min) — 1.32 miles

• Saturday: Outdoor Walk/Jog (34 min total). Intervals: 4 min walk / 1 min jog. Increased last jog to 2 minutes. Jogs were between 4.4 and 5.4 mph. — Total: 1.94 miles

The Choice to Move

As I write this on Saturday, I feel so good, but I’ll be honest: I didn’t even want to run today. I stayed in bed for a couple of hours before I finally got moving. I’ve been doing so well this week that I wanted to keep the momentum going.

I’m so glad I chose the run over a rest day. There’s a big difference between needing rest and just feeling "lazy." My body wasn’t telling me "no"—my brain was just enjoying the comfort of the covers. That is the hardest part of having a flexible schedule: when you are the boss, you have to be the one to tell yourself to get up.

Building the Dream

Because my current job allows me to make my own schedule, I have the freedom to prioritize my training and my writing. It’s challenging to stay disciplined when you don't have to answer to anyone else, but it’s also amazing. I’m doing exactly what I planned to do yesterday for today.

Remember, this is my story, shared to inspire you in all areas of your life. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new physical routine—what works for my journey might look different for yours.

I love you.

This is Love