Maratrail plan - ramblings and musings on weeks 1-4.

[Cmoi]

Four weeks ago, in the space of about 48 hours, I went from posting about maybe entering a maratrail in October to signing up for the event, and immediately downloading and starting a 16-week training plan.

I've now completed the first four weeks of the plan, though work has meant runs haven't always been on the prescribed days.

Physically I feel stronger, mentally it's often a struggle. I hate not being able to do what I feel like when I feel like it, and I really don't enjoy speedwork or tempo runs: I worry about pace, and pushing myself to the point of breathlessness triggers feelings of failure. And I miss the instant gratification of the occasional PB - I'm not running further, or faster.

On the upside - literally! - I've gone from running maybe 3 times a week to 5, getting in a lot of elevation (yes, I realise this explains why my average pace is generally slower) and I'm proud of myself for not having given up during the runs that I dislike.

Work and continuing curfew restrictions mean that I'll have to reshuffle and take extra time over the next few weeks of the plan. That's why I started early!

Happy running, all!

[nowster Metric Marathon]

I noticed you get the May 2000m run climb badge really early this month. That's some going!

[Cmoi Marathon in reply to nowster]

Thanks nowster . I've just checked Strava and apparently I'm on 2,711m for May so far. Highest monthly elevation was last month at 4,320m so I guess I might beat that, if I can stick to the plan and get the long runs in. Elevation is a key factor in the maratrail so it's just as well that I like hills!

[SkiMonday Ultramarathon in reply to Cmoi]

Wow! That's a lot of climbing! Also, yes, you'd be in a pickle if you didn't like hills.

[Cmoi Marathon in reply to SkiMonday]

I'm getting a tad obsesssed with elevation SkiMonday ! I've started running up tracks just to see where they go (most recent answer: nowhere except a field!) 😳 🤣

[Tbae Metric Marathon]

Enjoyed reading your post.Every good wish with all your plans.You are smashing stuff Cmoi.

🌟👏👏💪🙏💫⚡️

[Cmoi Marathon in reply to Tbae]

Thanks Tbae , I appreciate your kind response to my ramblings.

[Tbae Metric Marathon]

Iol.🌟👏👏😂

[GoGo_JoJo Ultramarathon]

The "not giving up" is key as around mile 22 that's exactly what your gremlins will be trying to get you to do 🤣

I'm not sure I could follow a plan so kudos to you for managing that! 👍🏻😁

[Cmoi Marathon in reply to GoGo_JoJo]

Thanks GoGo_JoJo . I'm telling myself that if I can get to the start line in reasonable shape I can always walk it! 🤣

[GoGo_JoJo Ultramarathon in reply to Cmoi]

Absolutely!! Once you've started you have every reason to keep going! 👍🏻😁

[Magellan Marathon]

Never heard of ‘Maratrail’ before, but if it’s what it sounds like it sounds good. 😀

I’m off for a google...

[Cmoi Marathon in reply to Magellan]

I'm nicking the French word to describe it Magellan ! It's this one: trailsaintjacques.com/epreu...

[Magellan Marathon in reply to Cmoi]

Ah, I see. Looks good, good luck with your training plan, and all that elevation!

[linda9389 Administrator Marathon]

Sounds like a great start - especially considering you're not keen on the dictat of a plan! Your runs always look amazing and I'm in awe of anyone who can consistently run 5 days a week!!!

[Cmoi Marathon in reply to linda9389]

Thanks linda9389 . I have neither the experience nor the confidence to think I can wing this, so a plan it had to be. Now, of course, I feel obliged to follow it, because if I didn't and then didn't complete the event, I'd feel such a gormless twerp. 😧

There again, 5 runs a week will definitely not be happening when I'm teaching and examining 10 hours a day 6 days a week! 😱

[linda9389 Administrator Marathon in reply to Cmoi]

Eeekkk!!!

[Cowladyrunning Marathon]

Oh wow that sounds exciting! I do get what you mean about the technical runs, but I'm beginning to understand how much stronger the variations make you! Good luck with your training!

[Cmoi Marathon in reply to Cowladyrunning]

Thanks Cowladyrunning . I more or less get the reasoning behind the speedwork and tempo stuff, it's just that it does my head in!