Disclaimer: I received free entry to the NJ Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews
I feel like this past few months has been all Boston, Boston, Boston. I normally feel a little “meh” after a big race is over, but I am feeling it now more than ever. I had wanted to run Boston for so so so long. The weather conditions were absolutely horrific, but I managed to finish despite it all. Because my finishing time was pretty slow for me, I was hoping recovery would be a breeze. But, nope! I went my for first run last evening, and while my brain might have huge memory gaps of the race, my legs remember every hill during those 26 miles! Oy. I hope they start to shake out quickly – I have the half marathon during the New Jersey Marathon coming up this weekend! It’s my first official race as part of the BibRavePro team, so I am very much looking forward to it.
When I originally signed up for this race, I was hoping that I would be amazing shape post Boston, and I could take advantage of the super flat course and (hopefully) good weather! I did not anticipate Boston recovery taking as long as it is. I am sure it is a combination of the extra effort my body needed due to the horrible weather, and my so-so training. I am hopeful that after a few runs this week I should be able to run this as a fun long run (with a great medal at the end!) but I don’t really have any big time goals. Just get to the finish with a smile on my face!
I am also transitioning into triathlon training this week. First up – getting back on the bike! While my behind is not looking forward to getting back into the saddle after a few months off (it’s gonna hurt!) I really do miss cycling outdoors on a regular basis. The trainer is a necessary evil in New England between crowded weekday roads and cold weather months that I tolerate, but I do really love cycling on the open road. I also plan on getting back into the pool as soon as make a final decision on which gym to join (I am being so wishy-washy on this decision for some reason!). I can’t say that I am as excited about getting into the pool as I am about getting back on the bike, but I know once I get into the rhythm of it, I will start to enjoy it a little more. Or it will be good for me, at any rate.
My next big goal race isn’t until September (Ironman Atlantic City 70.3). After going from Ironman Maine 70.3, to Philly Marathon, to Dopey, to Boston – it feels weird to not have a big goal coming up soon. I am doing the best to embrace the break, and focus on building a strong triathlon base that will carry me through a great race in Atlantic City and hopefully a strong running season later in the fall!
PS – Want to join me in New Jersey? There’s still time to sign up! Use code: NJMBibrave18 to save $5 off your race
Wow! I can’t believe you’re already racing after Boston. Good for you! I got out on my bike on Sunday and it felt so great. Looking forward to hearing about your triathlon training.
LikeLike
Well I’m not really sure I “raced” as much as “running my long run within a race and collecting a medal” LOL. I am so hoping I can get outdoors on my bike soon!
LikeLike
I always under estimate how long recovery should be. It’s going to feel great to get back on your bike. Look forward to hearing about all of your tri training
LikeLike
Thanks!! I’ve ridden indoors but not outdoors yet…fingers crossed this coming weekend is it!
LikeLike
Congratulations on Boston and good luck at the New Jersey Half this weekend! I hope you have a great race! I ran a half three weeks after Shamrock Marathon and it was pretty tough. I was thankful I had a friend run with me the whole race! It was raining and humid. Good luck training for your Ironman triathlon too!
LikeLike
Thank you! Yes – running a half so soon after a marathon is not fun haha. Sometimes it goes better for me the others – it just depends on how long marathon recovery takes. This one is taking me AGES!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’ll be fun to follow you on your tri training (since I currently have ZERO interest in doing one myself LOL). My legs were a little angry Monday and part of Tuesday following my race on Sunday, but they loosened up just in time for my 1-mile race last night (#whew). Your Boston shirt looks awesome!!
LikeLike
Thank you! It’s okay – not every race is for everyone! I see trail runners having to cross ditches and avoid tree roots and I’m like nope – I don’t think that is for me LOL.
LikeLike
You are a machine! Congrats on finishing Boston. That weather did look wicked. And holy cow, I can’t wait to read about your training for Ironman! That’s seriously awesome. Good luck in New Jersey!
LikeLike
Thank you so much! I am def looking forward to switching it up to tri training
LikeLike
Great job on finishing Boston, and I hope you have lots of fun at the NJ half this weekend! :] My friend is trying to coerce me into doing a triathlon someday, haha. We shall see! I’m interested to read about your training for Ironman! :]
LikeLike
Do it!! Seriously, triathlon is so much fun – well once you get over that pesky swimming thing and the black money pit hole the bike is. Come join the par-tay!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope you can enjoy a little break from training! Enjoy the race this weekend!
LikeLike
Thank you!! It was fun…recap to come 🙂
LikeLike
Sounds like you have an exciting season going forward! Did you ever end up hiring a coach?
LikeLike
Thanks! No, not yet. I am just taking in the information and digesting. I am seriously thinking about it for the fall/early winter season for marathon training….I really, really want to set that big PR I know I am capable of!
LikeLike