October Recap: Training and Cooler Weather

October came and went and it’s hard to believe it’s already November. Do I say this every month? October was a big month as far as running goes and I’ve been just trying to keep myself healthy for California International Marathon…something I was not able to do last October.

My goal for CIM is simple: make it to the start and finish line. I’ve been signed up for the race a few times and just never made it there due to injury or life. On a perfect day? I think I could probably run under 3:15 again.

Stats: 

Miles run: 325

Range of Paces: 5:58-15:30-untimed

Rest Days: 5

Malibu Moves 5k (20:22)

Thoughts:

We had an extended summer here in the Mojave Desert. There were some October days when it was well over 100 degrees, and we know that’s not great for running. I did a lot of workouts wondering, “Am I ever going to get fit, or is the desert weather just not ideal?” I did manage some quality long runs and workouts.

As far as races go, I ran three: the Aquarium of the Pacific 5K, the Long Beach Half Marathon, and the Malibu Moves 5K. Honestly, none of them went especially well. I felt “meh” in each, though less so in the 5Ks. By now, most people know I got locked in the bathroom at the Long Beach Half Marathon. The 1:40 time was a bit rough for me because I knew I was capable of more. Fortunately, during the first weekend of November, I ran a 1:31:32 at the Las Vegas Half Marathon—almost nine minutes faster, LOL!

Training is going well, and I mean really well. I hate to say that out loud because it usually means an injury is right around the corner, but I’ve been working hard to stay as healthy as possible. This is the most critical month for the California International Marathon. I have three more weeks of big training, then it’s time to coast into taper. I hope to get at least one or two 20-milers in, along with a few more quality workouts.

I did have a stress fracture scare when my foot started aching. Thankfully it was a just a tight muscle in my foot.

Long Beach Half Marathon Recap

Swimming: I’ve been swimming a lot less. I’m really focusing on quality miles and recovery. While I do miss swimming, there’s only so much exercise you can fit in.

Posts from the Month:

Shoe Reviews:
Brooks Glycerin Max Shoe Review
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 Shoe Review
ASICS Noosa Tri 16 Shoe Review
adidas Ultraboost 5X Review

Gear Reviews:

Styrkr Review
Mortal Hydration Review
Go Brewing Review
Swiftwick Socks Review: Do You Need Expensive Running Socks?
Carbs Fuel Review
GoWith Socks Review
Bob and Brad Q2 Pro Mini Massage Gun with Heat and Cold Review

Questions for you:
Are you training for anything?
How is your training going?