Embracing the Long Run

Training for a long distance race is challenging.  Training for a long distance race with small children adds another dimension to being flexible, creative, and overcome the mental obstacles so many runners face.

As a mom, I find that I often have to juggle the training plan schedule to work with my family/children’s schedule.  For example, this week I had another 9 mile on the training plan to prepare me for the Nike Woman’s half Marathon in October.  However, I already had plans for Saturday and Sunday… which forced me to do my long run on Friday.  9 miles while pushing the two little boys in the double jogger.  Two little boys, ages 4 & 2 years old who collectively weight 75+lbs.

I have the game plan mapped out in my head, mileage added up, and the stroller is stocked with snacks & waters for the boys and myself.  9 miles or bust is my motto for this warm Friday morning!

I decided to break up the run into segments.  If not only for the boys, to reduce any boredom stroller fights, but also for myself.

I decided to run to the gym.  The run went smooth, the boys were content (of course asking a million questions along the way which gave me a great endurance test with each answer).  I felt fast, strong, and in control.  Running the majority of the 3.5 miles to the gym (only stopping to rest at the 3 stop lights waiting to cross).

I drop the boys off at the gym to let them get their wiggles out.  I decide to bust out a quick and easy pace for 2 miles on the treadmill.  I decided to run it a bit faster than I would have run on this day, but knew that it was only 2 miles.  Again, I felt strong, fast and in control.  My body and my legs were having a good day.

Because there are not very many hills in my area, I decided to join a group strength training class… focusing on legs.  I thought this would help fatigue my legs more and simulate running the hills in San Francisco for the NWM race in 3 weeks.  I did the class, easy peasy.

The hard part was picking the boys back up, loading them in the jogger to head the 4+ miles home.  By that time the temperature had risen, it was almost lunch time, and we all were pretty much done with our little adventure.

I gave them their last snack as we hit the trails back home.  My enthusiasm for the run was low.  I still managed to run, but I did a lot more walking on the return route home.

I would like to blame that due to the fact that both boys were calm, quiet and tired.  Or perhaps it was just so stinkin’ hot on the return route that we all were just ready to call it a day and take a nap.  Who knows.

I do know that I may not have run the 9.5 miles consecutively… but I did cover my miles on the plan.  I did not push the boys the whole 9.5 miles in the stroller… but they were pushed 7.75 miles.  Still pretty darn good.

I have learned that even though I would have much rather chosen to run my 9 miles solo.  I do enjoy embracing the long run with my children.  There is something kindred about sharing a passion with your children.

I love running.  I love my children.  I love running with my children.  Even if it makes it more of an adventure and a bit more of a challenge.  Life is an adventure full of challenges.

I choose to embrace the long run… by embracing who I am… a mom who runs!