Doubts about my 3rd Half Marathon

Last Saturday when I did my 10k long run I had some serious doubts about running 21.1km in September & October! Really, every run is a struggle run since I injured my hamstring last December. I’m sure lots of people have doubts and it’s natural but I’m hoping to get over those doubts.

My pace is off.

My fitness is lacking.

My dirty laundry is increasing 😉

But the good thing is …

My determination is still there.

My love for the sport is still there.

And I’m supported by my family, friends, running groups and bloggers – they are wonderful! I’ve been plugging away at all my runs and feeling pretty happy but during last week’s 10k, I had some serious doubts!

wake up

I’ve had a few days to reflect on my current running and I really just feel lucky to be running again. Lucky to be training for my 3rd and 4th half marathon. No, it’s not the FULL Marathon training I was hoping to do this summer but it’s better then what I went through over the winter months in pain. Speaking of pain – it’s been a few weeks since I’ve had any in my hamstring.

I’m struggling on most runs but I’m blessed to be able to do them.

My pace is way off what it was last year but I’ll get back there at some point.

My fitness is questionable some days but I’m working on it.

My doubts about running 21.1 kilometres in 8-9 weeks will probably come and go but I’m hoping that’s what makes me a stronger runner in the end.

Running Update:

Yesterday I did ALL my PT exercises and foam rolled after I woke up as my legs were feeling tired. I managed to get 5k last night on the treadmill in my New Balance shoes. I haven’t worn them in months and it felt so weird running in them!

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My hamstring/glutes hurt today but not a painful hurt just a sore-from-yesterdays-PT-exercises kinda of hurt. I have an 11km run tomorrow morning planned and my amazing neighbour is coming over to be with the girls. That’s right, I am paying a babysitter so I can go on my run…and making waffles for her and the girls. I mean really, I can’t expect her to come over at 7:30 AM and not have breakfast at my house…so waffles it is 🙂

Ever doubt yourself? Doubt your training?

What keeps you going when you are doubting your running (insert other activity)?

What are your weekend plans?

20 thoughts on “Doubts about my 3rd Half Marathon

  1. In July I said I would try to be a morning runner. I am giving it a good effort but it’s been awful. I’m sluggish, slow, fighting to find rhythm. I have even asked myself why I torture myself. But I’m pushing through and hoping it will get better soon if not I will just have to go for a night run to find my groove and lift my spirits. I’m still hoping to run with you next time your in the city.

    • It was hard at first but now I’m loving getting up super early for my runs. IT also means I’m in bed earlier, which isn’t a bad thing.
      Yes, I’d love to go for a run together. Might be in Tim. in the next few weeks for a long run and will let you know ASAP.

  2. I’m so happy you are back and I think keeping that in perspective it totally key. I will say however, that while you feel a bit out of shape right now, you will find that over the next few weeks it all will come back quicker than you thought. Stay confident and patient and good things will happen!

  3. You got this! It’s hard to see it now but you’ll be there by the fall if things keep going well. Good luck and try to stay positive!

  4. Don’t doubt yourself! You are doing great. Keep it up with the PT – it makes a WORLD of a difference. I was discharged from PT in April from my Achilles and I still do the exercises diligently. I firmly believe it helps! And that foam roller – all good things!

  5. You can do it Anna! Everyone has doubts now and again. I especially get them wehn I feel sluggish like these past few humid runs. I just know that I’ll feel better during the Fall races. Good for you in keeping at your PT exercises. I’m sort of slacking, lol.

    • It’s helpful to know we all have doubts about our running 😉 My run yesterday was AMAZING and I figured out why – there was NO heat and NO humidity! I’ve kinda been slacking on my PT exercise but getting more focused on them now. Good luck at Tely 10!

  6. You are doing great! I think anyone who has been sidelined with an injury will doubt themselves a bit, because you are kinda starting over. Just remember you’ve done this before, you can do it again.

  7. Determination is half the battle! I find its a great and terrible thing we are able to track times so easily now with all this technology. I was training pretty hard last summer for my half marathon and I look at my times this year compared to last and think YEESH. What have I done to myself?? BUT the bright side is – you can only go up from here! Take it easy and get ‘er done!

    • You know, when I am running I’m completely fine with my pace/time but when I am finished and look at my overall time, I’m so disappointed. Maybe I need a little Garmin-free running … maybe not, ha ha! Though I’m not looking back at last year’s times, I know what they were and sometimes I find that hard. But the good news is that I am running again!

  8. Pingback: MRW Half Marathon Training Week #4 | Piper's Run

  9. I ALWAYS doubt myself during training, but somehow things usually just work out ok. Not every race is a PR, but I haven’t yet had to drop out of a race. And even if I do someday, it is what it is. You can’t change the circumstances, you just have to deal with them. Just keep doing your training and your PT exercises and you’ll be ready 🙂

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