Blueridge Training is a Success!!

Training - Done Right!

This is the best running -shape I have been in, in a very long time. The Runkeeper plan is working! At least, that is partly it. My experience is starting to build and I'm finally balancing my mileage and food without devouring excess calories or starving.

I have lost 8 lbs since new years (!!!). I never thought I would see my body hover around 130 lbs again. My mileage isn't significantly higher or lower from my last training plan (although I am doing more speedwork and sprints), and I'm not on a 'special' diet. But I am not eating nearly as much as I did last fall.

Instead of indulging in pasta and multiple helpings of rice, I am eating lean protein and veggies for every meal. I know - this is counterintuitive to the necessity of 'carb loading'. And it may not work for everyone - but I am getting faster too! 

The truth is we EAT TOO MUCH. It's OK to be slightly hungry while training (running is not easy on a full stomach; it can be a disaster). The night before my long run I'll add half a sweet potato to my dinner. The morning of maybe a lite english muffin or piece of toast with my eggs and spinach. That's it. I don't eat 2 lunches like I was before. I don't stuff myself and justify it by my 'rigorous training', We really don't need to (and really shouldn't) eat that much. 

I also think I've become better at burning calories; my body has become accustomed to the high training intensity and I no  longer feel like I'm starving. Most importantly - I can't believe how good I feel! My mood, health,  and physical stamina all have dramatically improved. 

Worst is Behind Us

Last night the sun set at 5:30. I left work at 5 and it was still light out (!!!). Only 5.5 more weeks until daylight savings. Around 4-5 PM is the most beautiful time of day to run right now. I love the pink and orange skies followed by the blue/lavender undertones... Thankfully I have had some flexibility with my job, so I have been able to run in the afternoon a few days a week. 

It's hard to believe that last time I trained for a winter marathon I was working 9 AM - 6 PM everyday (mandatory hours) and I was also finishing my bachelor's degree. No wonder things seem a bit easier this time around :)   

I'm running the For the Love of it 10K this Saturday....time to see how my training is paying off!!

Cheers and happy running

<3 India