Marathon Journey Week 9

This week looked a little different. If you’ve been following my journey, you know I’m not just training for a marathon; I’m living my life. On Tuesday, I headed to NYC for a concert and some of my favorite pizza. While that meant I didn’t stick to a "traditional" training schedule, I’m learning that showing up and doing my best is what matters most.

I don’t want my life to be consumed by training. I want it to be part of my life. I’ve seen people be hardcore and people be nonchalant—both can be successful. I believe we have to find the rhythm that works for us individually. Right now, my rhythm includes experiencing life while I build my stamina.

One thing I realized this week is that I need more activity throughout the day. My delivery job and my creative projects have me sitting for long stretches. I’m thinking about adding a simple one-mile walk after dinner to keep my body moving and help with my overall progress.

Week 9 Log (4/12 – 4/18)

• Sunday: Rest

• Monday: Walk (12 min at 3.4 mph / 13 min at 3.2 mph) — 1.36 miles

• Tuesday: NYC Day Trip! Walked the city streets. — ~6.0 miles

• Wednesday: Walked home from the bus stop (2.9 mph avg) — 1.93 miles

• Thursday: Rest (Recovery from NYC)

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

• Saturday: Outdoor Walk/Jog. Intervals: 4 min walk / 1 min jog. Jogs were 5.4, 5.2, 5.5, and 4.7 mph. — Total: ~2.0 miles

The NYC Recovery

Walking six miles in the city was amazing, but it also made me realize I have room to grow. My lower back and feet were aching before the concert even started, though the music and dancing seemed to make the pain vanish for a while.

I took a much-needed rest day on Thursday because my calves were feeling the burn from those city blocks. On Friday, I kept it light to ensure I was ready for my Saturday run.

Pushing Just Right

When I started my Saturday run, my knees were a bit stiff, but they warmed up quickly. During the intervals, I noticed my muscles talking to me: my right shin felt "tired" on the second jog, and my left calf felt "tired" on the third. I wasn't in pain, but I was aware. I decided to slow down the final jog just to be safe, and it was the right call. I felt like I pushed myself just enough without crossing the line into being sore.

Thank you for following me on this journey. As always, remember that this is my personal experience—please consult with your doctor before changing your own physical activity.

I love you.

This is Lov