This past Saturday I ran my first race of the year, the Floppin’ Flounder 5k on Sullivan’s Island. I had set a goal to PR, but quickly realized that might not be possible. You see life happened and I just didn’t make the time to really train. I maybe ran 4 times before the actually race.
The race day started just like most days in Charleston, hot and humid. I had my music, running shoes and family there to cheer me on. I was set! I started in the front, not because I am that good, but because I didn’t want to fight through the crowd at the start of the race. Ready, Set, Go and we were off. My first mile was around 7:15 minutes. I was pretty shocked by this considering I normally do 8 minute miles. I was feeling ok. My breathing was heavy,but my body felt good. Mile 2 was a little harder, I wondered if I was going to make it to the finish. My breathing was hard, my heart rate was high and I knew my lunges were not going to last much longer. As I looked at my watch it told me that I might just PR if I keep going. So I did.
With the finish line in sight I picked up my pace and could see the clock reading 23:00 minutes. Is this possible? All I could think about was being done so my lunges could finally recover and as I crossed the finish line I saw 23.59. I made it. That was tough!!!!
Even though I had little cardio to prepare for this race I believe being in overall shape helped me PR. I have been lifting weights for almost 2 years now,do cardio 2 times a week and eat clean/healthy. My body is in shape and strong. Although it can be done with little cardio I believe I could have done better if I would have trained for the race. My lunges weren’t conditioned enough to compete. Sure I could have run the race for fun,but I had a goal and wanted to accomplish it. Setting goals like this pushes and motivates me. Now I know if I really want to compete to place or medal I need to train my lungs and that means more running.
Do you have any races planned?
WinnerS of the Quest Nutrition Giveaway : Stephanie Zoccatelli & Maya Council.Please email me your address.
