It was awesome to wake up to Coach Dan's email this morning talking about heading into week 2 of marathon training. It is crazy that week 1 has flown by already. Felt awesome getting a few short runs in, some cross training, and then the long run in on Saturday!
I love that with the beginner marathon training schedule, Dan is a huge supporter of listening to your body and adjusting accordingly. If you need a cross training day, or an extra day off, then take it. Your body will thank you in the long run.
In the first week, my short runs were done on the treadmill because it was 5am and I do not have any reflective gear...something I perhaps need to invest in! But the long run yesterday, I could not have asked for a more beautiful day. Smiling ear to ear, my feet hit the pavement and it all came together as to how amazing it is to run for the American Red Cross. The team of individuals organizing the team runs, etc and the individuals who are training for the marathon are sure to be friends I will have for a lifetime. I did not make it out to Newton for our team run together but will be sure to plan for this in the future. I had already scheduled time to hand out gift bags my girlfriend and I made for the homeless people near us as a happy holiday gesture, so this took priority.
I am happy to say I have already planned a cross training program to incorporate in with my training so that my body does not break down. The new Hammer and Chisel beachbody program is absolutely amazing! Focused on Balance the one day which completely works your core...Endurance another day, which I thought I was in shape until Autumn the trainer kicked my ass on the DVD...another day of strength. It truly works the entire body and it will ensure my muscles do not break down for the next few months of training.
Nutrition has been on point this week which I am super happy with! No cheating on my meal plan, shakeology is helping curb my chocolate cravings, and meal prepping prior to the week is just so easy to do! I will say that after my long run yesterday, being treated to a north end italian dinner was pretty awesome :)
Overall, week 1 was a success and I am ready to tackle week 2. Thank you to all who have donated so far, I am so grateful!! If anyone else would like to donate and help me reach my goal of $7,000 please donate here! www.crowdrise.com/lynngugliuzza
