13 weeks to go+ Haile and Paula running in Berlin

Haile Gebrselassie and Paula Raddclife are arguably the best marathon runners of all time, and my favorite runners ever.  But, I have never been able to see them running.  Paula and Haile just announced that they will run in Berlin, and I will do my best to at least get a picture with those guys (since my chances of running with them are very slim :)).  I will also do my best to beat them!  haha!

Paula and Haile decided to run in Berlin because they are coming back from bad seasons (Paula gave birth to her second child, Haile has been dealing with knee issues since 2010), and they need a fast, flat course to get ready for the 2012 Olympic marathon.  I picked Berlin over Chicago, New York, and the Marine Corps marathons because I want to run a sub 3 hr marathon and it is difficult to find a race that offers the conditions of Berlin (great organization, great course, and great weather (hopefully)).

The weather in New Orleans is still hot and humid, but I am putting together a good training block.  I have done 3 weeks in a row of 40+ miles.  My speed workouts and tempos have been very good, but I am struggling a little bit with the long runs.  Indeed, I have only done two 10+ milers (10 miles last week, 12 miles yesterday).  Struggling in the long runs is not surprising.  It is difficult to maintain a fast pace when the heat index is 95+ F.  Long runs are important, but they are not the only component of my training plan.  I know that surviving the long runs in this heat will allow me to feel good in Berlin.  I know they make me stronger.   When I struggle in the heat and humidity, I imagine myself running the last mile in Berlin feeling fresh and enjoying every single moment. 

Running in the inferno

It's really hot and humid in New Orleans in early June. Running in this weather resembles running in the inferno, believe me!  However, I am having a great week of base training. My legs are feeling great, they have a spark and are ready to start with a 5-week build-up.  My mileage this week will be around 37-40 miles.  I am running my easy runs at a very good pace 8-8:10 min/mile. The short speed workouts were also good. I did a 6x1 min fartlek on Tuesday and a 2x1 mile tempo this morning.  My speed is good, I don't feel heavy running in these difficult conditions. So I am very happy about it.

I am also hitting the gym every day.  I didn't do enough strength training in the spring and this is the time to make up for that mistake.  Strength training is very important in my marathon program.  A strong core helps my form and my speed, and boosts my endurance.  I used to think that running and strength training were not good complements, but my performance in the past 4 marathons suggest that it has helped my running tremendously.

I would like to do some racing before starting with the heavy loaded 12-week plan for Berlin.  Unfortunately, I can't find races in the area... I will keep looking!  I have 3-4 races in mind before Berlin, one of them is a half-marathon in Chicago. I just don't know whether I will have enough time to travel this summer.  I will keep you informed.

I am going to keep enjoying the 101 degree weather in NOLA... have a great weekend!