Phoenix Marathon Training, Week #6

Big week of training is in the books. Six weeks done already!

Summary:

Details:

M: 11.5 miles (w/ 9 x 1k at about HM pace)
T: 10 miles (9:31)
W: 10.6 hilly miles (8:59) w/ 3 strides; pilates
Th: 9.1 miles (8:47) w/ 6 x 200m
F: 7 miles (9:48); pilates
Sa: pilates
Su: 16 miles (8:43) w/ MP surges in last 8 miles

Random thoughts about the week:

I didn’t hit the paces for the speedy stuff exactly as written, but close enough that the training effect should be there.
Coach MG wanted me to watch what I ate and drank and try to get rest this week b/c of the higher mileage and intensity. It paid off – I felt good, was able to get up early and get the workouts in and I lost 2 pounds. This week will be more challenging to watch what I eat/drink with Christmas and a ski trip.
The coaching thing seems to be working really well. He is adjusting the workouts as we go – presumably based on how I handle the workouts that are given to me or my life stuff going on or something. And I’m being a good little trainee and doing what I’m told. 🙂 It’s interesting that he is able to predict (maybe that’s the wrong word; maybe it’s just good coaching) what I can handle. Example: at the beginning of the week my long run was written as 16 miles with 5 minute MP surges at the beginning of miles 8 -15. But after my Monday workout (maybe cause I couldn’t hit my paces and faded???) he changed the long run to have the MP surges be less. I was a little disappointed because I hate backing off of workouts. BUT – it turns out that what he had me do today was exactly all that I could handle and I couldn’t handle one step further (and likely would have faded if the surges had been longer).
I’ve found that I’ve NEEDED pilates this week to loosen my legs.

Another high mileage week coming up! Woot!

69 days til race day!