Sore legs

8:30 group just started
Photo by NYRR

Last weekend I did something crazy. I volunteered to be a pace leader for NYRR's Long Training Run #2. My task was to keep a constant pace of 8:30 minutes/mile (pace groups started at 7:00 minutes/mile up to 11:00+ in 30 seconds increments) for a length of 6, 11, 16, or 20 miles so the runners behind us were able to meet their training goals. Training for a marathon is not to run as fast as possible from the get go but to stay at the fastest pace possible that keeps your body run most efficiently so you will not run out of fuel half way in (aka hitting the wall). That usually means you train to run a certain pace all the way through the 26.2 miles. That's why pace leaders in long distance runs are extremely helpful. You don't have to keep checking your watch. Just follow the group leaders.

Quick break after first six miles
Photo by NY Flyers

I initially signed up for 11 miles (the 6 and the 5 miles loops in Central Park) but decided to run one more 5 miles loop at the last minute. It was quite the experience. The first 11 miles were rather easy. It sure helps that you run in a group and keep each other in check. The third loop was a challenge, though. I was lucky that midway of the loop another runner was curious and asked me about this event. The conversation I had with him took my mind of the thoughts that were trying to convince me to throw in the towel and actually gave me one more boost to get back in front of the group. Thank you, stranger! The last couple miles were surprisingly easy but when the lead asked me if I would join him for the last four miles I had to say no. All in all I ran 16 miles in a bit less than 2 1/2 hours. It felt great to know that I was actually running a half-marathon and a 5k on top of that. My legs were wobbly and my joints stiff and now, a day later, I am still sore but it is all worth it. Imagine how many days it will take to recover from a full marathon.

On the way back home - bubbles!

After the run I sat myself on a rock and watched the other groups come in and leave for the last loop. Another runner, who also ran 16 miles, joined me and we talked a bit about running. He is also more of a newbie runner (he started in October of last year) but he keeps himself busy with a race every weekend. That's quite ambitious. I will probably see him again at some race in the future. Good luck, Robert!

Before I headed back home I stopped by the Bethesda Fountain (thinking how good it would be to put your legs into the water) and walked/limped by a guy making gigantic bubbles. Central Park in the morning is an interesting place to be.

Tonight I will leisurely run another six miles down the Hudson River to the Battery and then take a couple days off. I've got a 10k race to prepare for.