So I am really focused on my training plan for OKC on 5/1 and one thing my training has taught me is that I need to add more mpw (miles per week) to my regiment. More miles, according to most experts, helps with endurance and speed at the same time and I need help with both. Heck, world class runners may put in 120 miles a week or more during their peak weeks of training. Now, I don't want to do anywhere near that many miles, but I do want to bump up from 20-30 mpw a week to a peak of 40-50 mpw. It is my hope that if I can do this I can set a new PR and and finish the marathon strong.
As I imputed the weekly training numbers into my excel spread sheet I became extremely excited about my plan, but then I started to realize... More miles equal more hours, and at my pace (9:45-10:30 m/m at MP- slower for training) even a simple six mile jaunt will take me an hour or so. 20 mile long run? 3 hours or more... That got me thinking about my typical week, with my job, tutoring, family, friends and the time I need to devote for those important parts of my life. With only so many hours in a day or week, where was I going to find the time to add these new miles?
I am sure that many other runners have this dilemma. How do I balance the rigors of marathon training with family and job needs? As I think about this question I become less excited and more nervous about the balance I will need to achieve.
I have some answers that I hope will help others as well.
1. Flexible schedule- I know most runners thrive on a set routine, but I know that I will have to have some flexibility to fit in the MPW week I need. AM run missed will mean a run after my son goes to bed that evening. Can't run on a Friday afternoon? Then I will get up extra early on a Saturday to fit the run in. I need to allow myself some wiggle room in my weekly plan to ensure I get my MPW in and done.
2. Time management- I will have to manage my time extremely effectively to make this work. Advanced planning and open communication with my wife will really help out in getting my miles in.
3. Less sleep- For my weekend long runs I know I will have to wake up before roosters to get in my 16-20 milers. Normally a waking up a little early wouldn't be too bad, but through in a teething infant and you realize every hour of sleep is worth more than gold.
4. Amazing wife- All runners whose significant others aren't runners know exactly what I am talking about. My wife understands my passion and doesn't mind watching our son or hearing me get up at 4:30 on a weekend. I know my training plan would be worthless if it wasn't for her.
Will it work? Only time will tell. I’ll keep you guys updated as I train.
Got suggestions on training and balance? Let me know and post a comment!
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