First of all, I can’t thank you all enough for your support yesterday after I dropped the barbell. My ego was definitely bruised but quite honestly, the love and support that I’ve received from my box, community and you lovely readers has been so heart-warming. It’s a reminder that regardless I’ve got some amazing people standing behind me and for that I am so humbled and thankful.
I allowed myself a little extra rest and sleep this morning and will be walking back into my box to WOD later this afternoon followed by some sprints (as part of marathon training).
Speaking of marathon training…it sure is quite the roller roaster ride – emotionally and physically! I knew to expect a lot when it came to marathon training but I thought it would be fun to share a few of the top things I’ve learned during marathon training.
1 – Don’t under-estimate the power of intervals
This was a new one for me. One of my coaches at CrossFit sent me her marathon training plan which I combined Hal Higdon’s Novice plan to create what I thought would be a great plan for me. Her plan included intervals, something that I haven’t really played around with that much. Within the first interval session, I was already seeing the benefit and I’ve come to really enjoy my interval sessions. Who knew? 😉
2 – Go to bed early/wake up early to get in that run before it’s too hot/humid
This might be obvious and it’s definitely something I knew and have taken into account during half marathon training but it’s proven even more so now. This is probably mostly due to more long runs, mid-week runs and training in the middle of summer…it gets hot and humid early, girl’s gotta get it in before the sweat burns my eyes. ha!
3 – Compression is necessary for my recovery
Again, another thing I’ve known from past race training, compression is key for my recovery. But every time in the past, I always used compression sleeves so when I had the opportunity to try PRO Compression socks through my partnership with Sweat Pink, I jumped at the chance!
From PRO Compression:
PRO Compression socks deliver maximum comfort and speedy recovery times. The science is complex, but benefits such as improved blood flow, stability and comfort are universally understood. The moment you put these socks on your feet, you will feel the difference.
This design requires more effort to put on than standard socks. But it’s that extra effort and much-needed compression that make all the difference. Be patient and your feet will thank you.
True graduated compression promotes circulation by pushing fluid up from your feet and ankles to toward your knees. This design also helps reduce swelling and inflamation while providing critical support to muscles and tendons.
I’m not a runner who wears her compression socks while she runs but I love to wear them the night before a long run and the afternoon after a long run. It might not be the most stylish look but I definitely FEEL the difference. The runs are getting longer, harder and definitely taking a toll on my body, and it’s been great to grab the socks, throw them on and get that extra level of support, blood flow and recovery to my muscles.
Quite honestly, I’m already thinking I’ll have to get my hands on more of the compression socks and maybe even try out some of their other gear (coughtotallyeyeingtheleggingscough). Lucky for us PRO Compression is offering a 40% off using discount code “PINK”!!
What are some of your top lessons learned regarding you fitness? (Running, yoga, lifting, whatever!)
Have you ever tried compression socks or sleeves?
*Disclaimer: PRO Compression sent me the socks free of charge in exchange for this post, but as always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
I need to do the compression thing!! I initially thought people just wore them while running (some do) and I just didn’t think it would be comfortable wearing giant socks on a run! I could definitely see wearing them after a run though!
Some say they improve their performance when they wear them while running but I know for myself, I need to wear as little clothes as possible when I’m working out (without showing off everything, LOL!) so tall socks just aren’t going to cut it. But since i see the benefits when I wear them AFTER, I don’t mind! 🙂
Sleep is one of the biggest factors in my performance. I really need to get better at going to bed earlier! And of course, ProCompression socks. I love rocking them even if I get odd looks 😉
It’s a new fashion statement, others just need to catch on! 😉
such great tips! i think recovery is often overlooked! that means early to bed for sure!
Thanks, girl! 🙂
I love my compression socks!!! I even wear them when I fly. 😉
That’s a SMART idea!!
Great tips Katie, all equally as important as one another. I was a very successful runner in college, but I thought once I moved away from the 5k and 10k that I would not have to do intervals, WRONG! Instead I now do 8-9x mile instead of 4-5. They are SO beneficial to your body though, and help to get it through the changes in pace as you go through rough spots in the marathon. I also find that marathon training is all about slogging through it, rather than the quick, intense burn of a 5k. And most importantly marathon training is mostly about getting to the start line healthy; respect the marathon!
I’m struggling with that whole getting to the start line thing…lol