Log 10

The VM is feeling pretty good. Despite this it's been a frustrating week. I'm holding back because I just want to make sure I'm over this thing. I've been told that this whole ultra thing is about patience. One needs patience to run 50 miles. I'm getting some good training in the patience department. I've also been told by my coach that if one has the fitness to run a marathon then one can complete a 50 miler. This concept is a bit harder for me to believe, but I will take my coach's word for it. He seems to have more faith in my ability than I do.

I set my alarm for 4:30AM Saturday with hopes of getting in eight miles before coaching with Team in Training. Somehow I slept through the alarm and was awakened by my back up watch alarm. I didn't have time for eight so I wound up doing five pain free miles before talking to the team about belly breathing.



The belly breathing came up because I was talking about preventing and getting rid of a side stitch. Some believe that a stitch is caused by a spasm in the diaphragm caused by shallow breathing. To remedy this exhale forcefully a few times. To help prevent this from happening become a belly breather. Lie on your back with a heavy book on your stomach. Breath in such a way that the book rises and falls as opposed to breathing higher up with your chest. If you have the patience do this for a few minutes each day for a month until it becomes habit.


Above: Post practice potluck with Team Captain Gail, Coach Vicky, and CM Jill.

After Saturday's run and practice I was feeling encouraged. No pain and no post run ache. I called my coach and he thwarted my planned run on Sunday and told me to rest the quad and head out on Monday. He wants me to get in three more pain free runs before adjusting my schedule. I can't say I disagree. I would tell a participant the same thing. I have difficulty taking my own advice sometimes so it is really great to have someone else who's experienced looking out for you.

Feeling pent up and wanting to be proactive I went to the Rose Bowl Aquatic Center, purchased a one-month pass and proceeded to Aqua Jog for an hour and a half. Just when I was going stir crazy with boredom I was joined by Maria. Maria's a long time marathoner of Boston qualifying speed. She was in the pool nursing an injury as well. We chatted about local running routes, marathons, and future plans. It was great having someone to talk with.



I was reminded by my coach that while it's nice to wind up at the starting line feeling confident, it isn't necessary. The confidence is icing on the cake and doesn't guarantee a finish. There's no guarantee either way and that, upon further reflection, is somewhat exciting.