June 13th, 2010 – 7 Mile Run

The continued prayer is, “Lord keep me focused. Keep my mind stayed on You. Help me to bring You praise. I know You believe in me. Please help me in my unbelief. Amen.”

Today’s run was a little rough. It was the first decent workout I’ve had in days and the first time I’ve run in the middle of the day in quite a while. I usually run after work. I completely underestimated the afternoon heat and the need for hydration.

I knew I wanted to run at least 6 miles so I was on the 4 and 1 program. I also wanted to commit to doing the first mile in a 4 minute sprint and 1 minute jog. That went well but I really didn’t improve my time by much.

I still wasn’t feeling it by mile 2 and usually I’m good to go by then. It is *really* hot and I didn’t pack any water or cash to stop at the 7-11. I didn’t bring any gels. I’d decided before I started that I was going to run it without gels, but the water thing was an oversight. I meant to bring it.

Mile 3 and 4 were great! I was getting my stride and the run is starting to feel really good. The only thing that could make it better was if I had some water. But I’m half done and I think I’m going to make it!

By mile 5 I’m fighting a cramp in my left calf and I really don’t want to run through a cramp, so at the next stoplight, I stretch it out a bit and keep on running.

By mile 6 my form is bad but I’m still fighting toward home I am more fatigued than I would be normally because of the heat and I really need some water. This is a problem. I have got to do better than this. We’re no where near the summer temperatures. It’s only going to get worse going forward so I can’t skip the water anymore. Lesson learned.

I made it home exhausted and dehydrated. Next workout will be better. That’s the goal!