Oh My Aching Abs

I do not know where the time goes.  I was going to write about my training on a weekly basis and as I sit here looking at the calendar I realize that last week came and went.  Where did it go?  Can you get time back if you've no recollection of it at all? 

In summary for last week - I had 37 miles on the calendar and ended up cutting my 20 down to 10.  Though, there was so much snow on the ground it felt like 20!

This week is all new for me.  I've started training with a coach.  Her approach is much different than mine and it is taking some getting used to.  What do you mean I can't do 20 milers yet?  My heart about stopped when I heard that.  But, she is the professional and trains some great ultra runners so probably knows a little more about this ultra stuff than me.  When I ask "why?" there's always a logical reason.  And I ask why a lot!

What's new?  Hmmmm...speed work, running more days, running less miles, paying attention to heart rate, tracking calories and nutrition, and CORE work!

Last night I did some speed work followed by a 20 minute time trial.  My last two 5k's were run at about a 7:30 pace.  It's been a while since I've paid any attention to speed and it's amazing how quickly that can be lost.  I am kind of embarrassed to even document this but I will because the next time it will be much better.  20 minutes - 2.31 miles = 8:39 pace.  WHAT?  I want a re-do!  That's over a minute per mile slower than I was expecting!  I am not out to win races and a nice easy pace is one of the things I love about ultra running.  But, I will work on building some speed for these shorter distances and PR a 5k and 10k this year.

Calorie tracking - what an eye opener!  I wondered how I could be an ultra runner and not lose any weight.  Let me tell you...it's called M&M Peanuts.  I think I could have easily been consuming 500 calories of the sweet goodness on a daily basis.  Every time I walked past the front desk at work I'd grab a handful.  I will not ruin it for those of you who love M&M's - but I will be limiting myself to 10 pieces per day instead of 10 hands full.  I am really excited about this part of the training.  If I can go into the 100 with 15 less pounds to carry I'll be a happy camper.          

And lastly, my aching abs!  I did my first ab/core workout this week and it hurts to sit up straight.  But I like the pain - I think it means I did it right and there are some muscles building up under my protective "winter layer".  Quite excited about that. 

Happy Friday!