Here we are, just a few days out from race day. And well, it’s been an interesting training cycle. Let’s start off and address the elephant in the room. High mileage wasn’t really seen in this training cycle. I had a few days of long runs, but other that that I stuck with base mileage. Am I going to regret this? Maybe, but I just ran a half marathon two weeks ago, so I know I can go the distance. The issue isn’t will I finish, it’s how I run the race. I signed up for this half at the Columbus Marathon expo, I was in great shape and could totally battle the hills. Also, I really wanted the medal and Asics bag a friend had received the year before. I finally checked the elevation chart for the first time in six months and realized this could be a little harder.

In the beginning I mentioned how this would be a different training cycle, focusing on creating solid runs and cross training. And I’ve done that. I’ve had great runs, I’ve learned to  pace myself better and most of the time I never regretted getting out there to run. I also threw in cycling and yoga. I was skeptical, but I think it helped. I’m a lot more flexible that I was three months ago, and my legs feel stronger by using more than just my running muscles. Sometimes it’s quality over quantity. And can we point out the most important thing. I’m not injured! At all. This is pretty much a miracle, considering I’m pretty injury prone. Maybe there really is a connection between cross training and being injury free.

This week I took it easy. The back to back races over the weekend left my legs tired and tight. Tuesday I tried to go for an easy run and it felt like my legs were cement, however, my pace at 8:39 was awesome. I took the rest of the week off from running to let my legs recover and hopefully prepare for this weekend. I tried a new spin class last night, which either destroyed my legs for the race or prepared me for the massive hills. I’ll let you know which one on Sunday. I followed it up with one hour of pure yoga, so relaxing and so needed. I plan to do a short run Saturday morning to shake out the legs and then I’ll see what I have in me come Sunday morning.

Monday: Off

Tuesday: 2 Miles

Wednesday: Off

Thursday: 1 Hour Spin, 1 Hour Yoga

Friday: Off

As of right now, the weather seems to be around 50′ and mostly sunny at the start. Rain is in the forecast, but hopefully it holds off until I’m back home. If you’re at the race, you can look for me and cheer me on. I’ll be wearing this colorful outfit I’ve tried out a few times, Lululemon top, Asics ARD shorts, and Pro Compression purple socks. I love this combination, and wish I found it sooner before it got hot.

If you’re at home, you’re free to track me using this link: http://tracking.endresultcompany.com/2013/pig/index.php

I’m bib 15285, we’ll see if it’s a lucky number. As much as I’m excited for this race, I’m excited for many more races over the next few months. I’ll be sharing my summer/fall plans next week. Have a good weekend, good luck racing and I’ll see you on the other side of half marathon number 12!