This morning was the final test of my preparation for the Marine Corps Marathon next Sunday. I decided to do the final long run of my marathon training program outdoors, after completing all of my other long runs on the treadmill. I was definitely beginning to get a bit nervous that my body has gotten too used to the treadmill (but maybe that is just typical pre-race nerves kicking in), so I was very interested to see how this run would go, particularly in terms of pace and perceived effort level. Honestly, it could not have gone better--if this workout was a test, I give myself an A+ (and I am a notoriously hard self grader)!
I started out with my obligatory slow first mile (7:38) before settling into six straight miles ranging from 7:22 to 7:28. I then knocked out the last mile in 6:55 for a total time of 59:03, or 7:23 per mile pace. I was extremely happy with the way this run went for several reasons, including:
- It just didn't feel that hard--I literally barely broke a sweat until I picked up my pace the last mile, and wasn't even remotely fatigued afterward.
- I was really excited about my ability to keep a nice, even pace during miles 2-7.
- I completed the run sans music, hydration, or nutrition.
- For once I didn't have to make a "pit stop" during an outdoors run (let's just leave it at that).
Right now my confidence is sky high for next Sunday--BRING IT ON!
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