2-day (Days 19 and 18) summary!
Yesterday (Day 19) was a treadmill running day. Have you ever had one of those days where you’re glad to be working out, happy you can fit it into you day, thrilled when you check if off your “to do” list, but while you’re in the middle of it, fight to keep your mind from completely wandering somewhere else?
Well that describes yesterday. My running was strong, I felt really good in my body (no aches, pains, tightness – yay!), and I ran at 9.30 mph for the last mile and a half (fast for me). But my mind? I really struggled to manage it.
What to do? I practiced a made-up form of running meditation. I focused on my breathing. . in, out, in, out. I concentrated on my breath filling my lungs and then leaving through my exhale. I practiced visualization, pretending to see the FINISH banner hanging in front of me, and imagined running my last half mile as if I were actually at the race. I focused on body mechanics, uncurling my toes (why I curl them when I run I have no idea), intentionally landing on my heel and rolling through to my toes, I relaxed my shoulders.
Guess what. It worked. Thankfully I don’t need to regularly employ that much mental effort to run – but it’s good to know that when I need ’em, I’ve got some tricks. See if they don’t work for you next time you’re struggling. . .
Today (Day 18) was a strength training day. No mental anguish or wandering there! Worked chest and back muscles, and did a few light leg exercises. Back muscles sometimes get overlooked in the workout routine – but strong back muscles really help you run strong, so make it a habit to include them.
