Struggling | Green Dog Wine

April 4, 2010 | Filed in: Uncategorized

This post has been in my head for a few days, and when my very lovely bloggie friend, Andrea asked for an update on how the marathon training is going – I thought – Why not today?

This is entirely devoted to running, so if you don’t want to hear it – skip it! (although – I did include a cute pup picture at the end!)

A few things differences I’ve noticed between training for my half marathon last year, and training for the full marathon this year:

I’ve SLOWED down considerably. Don’t people usually SPEED up the more they run?
I’ve got a lot more aches and pains! There’s some funky stuff going on with my right hip (feels like pinched nerve stuff), and my left knee keeps giving out on me (I think I’m compensating on my left leg because of the right thigh pain)
The more long runs I put in – the more I’m really struggling on long runs

Blech – right?

So, with my 20 mile run (longest run before the marathon) looming just around the corner – I’m reaching out to you guys for some ideas & inspiration.

I feel like I’ve lost my stamina & strength. The past two long runs – I am completely pooped by mile 8 – which is seriously scary considering the marathon is 8 + 18.2 – GAH!

The thing is – if I always felt like this on long runs, I’d think it’s normal. But all of last year, and most of this year – I’ve felt strong on long runs, and tired in the very normal “I just ran 11 miles” sense. Then the past two weeks – this exhaustion hit, and every mile past 2 seems like a struggle.

A few things that popped into mind were: Am I getting enough protein? Am I getting enough carbs? The answers to both is PROBABLY NOT.

In addition – I was wondering about the supplements I take – as of right now, I take glucosamine with MSM daily, and ibuprofen before my long runs, that’s it.

If you have any tips, pointers, thoughts, suggestions – I would really love to hear them!

Sorry if this seems kind of whiney – I know that I am the one who signed myself up for this because I wanted to be able to “check it off my list” – but right now I’m having some doubts, peppered with the slightest hint of…dare I say it…regret? If I’m being honest – I’m terrified of May 16th right now.

If you are still there – thanks for listening! It feels better just to get it down in writing.

As promised, I’ll end with a cute pup picture, just because!

HAPPY EASTER to all my Christian friends, and Happy Sunny Sunday to everyone else!!!!

40 Comments so far
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ive got no suggestions for you, since i can’t run very far at ALL! but i hope you figure out what you need to get goin. happy easter to you and mike and pups! love you!

i think you should probably try eating more, drinking more water, sleeping longer, and get out of your own head so much! so much of this is mental. believe you can do it!

I give you 2 thumbs up for being so honest!! I know how you feel but on a smaller scale–recently I’ve been wiped out just running a mile- it’s frustrating! My first advice you already hit on- make sure you’re eating enough. Marathon training requires a lot more than half marathon training. And is there a reason you’re taking the ibuprofen before you run? I remember reading something in Runner’s World (I think) about that not being good- I think it blocks blood flow to your kidneys and can cause hyponatremia – which could definitely contribute to being tired! I hope you can figure out what’s going on so you can get excited about your race!

I am not a runner so take everything I say with a pinch of salt.

It’s not supposed to be easy- if it was, everyone would be running marathons. BELIEVE in yourself. Seriously, visualising yourself completing the race (and training runs) and knowing you CAN do it makes a huge difference. And we all know you can do it

Definitely look into diet too. I notice such a huge difference when I fueled properly for my long dancing days. For me, I need a good amount of carbs (wholegrains) and protein at every meal, but different things work for different people- some swear by nut butters and green monsters, I swear by turkey sandwiches and brown rice with tuna and chickpeas. Play around and find what works best for your body.

I am not a runner, ummmm… but you know this.

I am curious as to your normal energy level on a day-to-day basis, is it the same as say this time last year? Also, not sure if you take other supplements than those listed, but B Vitamins (especially B-12) has helped me with energy overall.

I have never attempted to run a marathon (yeah, hard to believe, right?), so I do not know all that goes into it body/mind/spirit wise. But, I do believe you have to listen to your body and really hear what it is telling you. The body does have amazing abilities to tell us if something funky is going on.

As always, much love to you.

(ohhh, do you think it would help to imagine taht Kate Gosselin was running after you? SOrry, you know I only say it because I know you can take it:)

allijag Reply:
April 13th, 2010 at 2:47 pm

You are wise beyond your years my dear

I have no advice because I was the worst run trainer ever, but I do hope you feel better!

I have no advice, but Happy Easter!

I ran a half marathon last year, and during training, I really made an effort to stick to a consistent eating pattern. Such as, I did my long runs on Saturday mornings. Before I left, I would have a piece of bread with peanut butter and 1/2 a banana. Once I trained enough to run 8 miles, I started bringing a snack with me — usually half a Protein Bar (something with simple carbs, little fiber). Then, the day of the race, I made sure to eat the same thing as I always did before my training runs, and to have the same snack. I think consistency is key, even though your pre-run snacks get a little boring. It’s all about knowing what works for you.

Also, definitely try to get enough sleep. I know that’s nearly impossible, but I’ve read that people training for endurance events need at least 9 hours to perform their best. And like someone before mentioned, I also read that taking ibuprofen can actually make your runs worse. It’s better to take it after if you need it.

Lastly, go get a massage! That’ll help with the hip. And make sure you’re stretching enough. Doing 20 minutes of yoga once or twice a week worked wonders on making my legs less tight. Good luck! I admire you a ton for training for the full marathon — it’s on my list, too!

I can totally understand what you mean by this all as i sort of went through it when i was training for my half. The only ideas i can give you drink lots more water, eat a more fat/protein pre-run snack and like caitlin above said, its alot of mental mentality, you can do it love! i believe in you! if only i could run it with you i would! you are so strong!

Awww bummer sister! Right off the top of my head it sounds like you’re not eating enough and not getting enough sleep. It’s up to your bod if you need more protein or carbs or whatever, it will tell you but you gotta listen.

Mental can be an issue but honestly, that doesn’t sound like the problem to me. You’ve run 18 miles, so clearly you can do this. I do think it’s more physical related.

Injury related, you may have to take a step back and assess the situation again. Maybe there is something going on with your hip and it needs a break.

I won’t write a book in the comments. But if you wanna chat it out, email me!

I think you are awesome for sticking with marathon training!! I always notice a tiredness if I don’t eat enough protein or drink enough water the day before my long runs. For me, hydration is key a few days before long runs! As for being slower, don’t worry about it! At least you are out there doing it! I’ve noticed too that when I run slower, it actually causes my knees and hips to hurt more. But again, that’s just me! Keep up the hard work! You are gonna rock this marathon!!

I’ve definitely hit training funks. And the sad answer is I have no clue what causes them. i’ve thought maybe I’m not eating enough? But I refuse to weigh myself to look for changes If you’re lacking anything, it would probably be calories in general and not a specific one. I know fat is a runner’s friend when it comes to injury prevention.

I’ve totally felt that weird “pinched nerve” feeling in my hip, too! The only thing that helps for me is to take a few days off and stretch a LOT. I think it’s usually a strained/super tight muscle.

Do you bring food on your runs? That might cure your lack of energy. But for me, when I don’t feel like I can get past 2 miles, I know it’s totally mental. If I have a running partner, I can go SO much further, even if I’m low on energy. I recommend a running buddy! Seriously, I would never have made it as far as I have without someone to run with.

Could it possibly be overtraining? I know when I started to up my mileage, I ended up doing it too quickly and burned out.. I went from running ~25 mpw to ~50 mpw in the matter of a few weeks and I just got so exhausted and so tired I was pushing myself harder to keep the same pace I had been running before. Also, make sure you’re getting lots of protein and carbs the night before and also refueling properly right afterwards! I hope you figure out what’s going on.. running isn’t nearly as fun if you’re dragging along!

Maybe you aren’t eating enough. Maybe just for a day you should write down everything you eat and analyze it? I wouldn’t worry about the slower runs. I mean, you are running a lot more and it’s taxing on your body.

Maybe adding some crosstraining in would help. I know I have to consciously add it in now while I’m training for my half but I think it makes me a stronger runner. And listen to your body…running one marathon is not work possibly a permanent or long term injury.
Courtney
adventures in tri-ing

Maybe rest before long runs a little bit more? or spread them out? I’ve definitely experienced that feeling of slowness and it is a frustrating place to be! Keep up with the training and do not be discouraged!
Katherine

I’m not much of a runner, so I have no tips of real worth unfortunately. I do know that the negative thinking isn’t going to help you reach your goals. Keep at your training plan, who cares how fast/slow you are, just keep going. DON’T STOP. NEVER STOP You totally got this!

hmmm i have an idea – would it help if i ran with you on saturday for 9 or 10 miles then biked the rest with you???

also – i could do your long wednesday runs with you in the AM before work?

maybe its just overtraining? or maybe you need more protein – like at lunch with your salad or something? or just bigger dinners the night before your long run?

i am zero help – i know – but if it helps you to run with someone else then let me know

Have you tried foam rolling and stretching a bunch after a run and popping some ibuprofen? Drink lots of water too. Do you run with water and sports beans? I bought a camelback recently and it does wonders for my endurance when i am getting tired. Hang in there, you can do it! Just remind yourself that no matter the time, you will have accomplished a huge milestone!!!

Girl, I am feeling the EXACT same way! Except I’m not achey–I owe that to the foam roller. That’s my only suggestion. Other than that, I’m just going to be reading what people are suggesting for you and applying it to me! What Marathon are you running?

Awww, hunnybunny, I can feel your frustration all the way in Cbus. Poor darling.

I agree with the others that it sounds like nutrition and hydration need some attention. I know food tracking can suck, but it will really tell you where you are.

Also, and I know you know this, if you start out thinking you can’t do it, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

You ran for 3 hours the other day. I know you can do this, chica. and then you can put it behind you forever if you want.

Love ya!

Awwww, girl, everyone has their bad days. Just remember, if it were easy, everyone would run a marathon!

I know you can do this – just believe in yourself. I know it’s harder than it sounds, but you deserve it! Just think about how you’ll feel when you cross that finish line……

Hang in there and then just see how you feel! If you feel like it’s too much this year, just do the half! 13 miles is still a huge accomplishment and you can always train for a full again. I wish I could do it with you! I am so jealous! Also, running the full Columbus may be a better idea because Columbus is flat and Cleveland…not so much! Plus, I could be there to cheer you on!

I am having the same issue! I’m not training for anything but I’m having a lot of running pains / aches and issues building endurance. SOOOO I have no advice for you, but let us know how it works out! HUGS!

A few ideas… I’m training for the half and am experiencing a LOT of pain/problems… Currently I am taking glucosamine with MSM as well. I am also taking Shark Cartilage. My joints are beaten down – I did gymnastics for 12 years, so that doesn’t help. Other ideas… FOAM ROLLER!!! I just borrowed one from the trainer at my gym (and will now be purchasing one). It is VERY painful, but completely works out the tightness in your thighs, which will help with any knee pain. Another idea… find a running partner for your longer runs to motivate each other! I’m not sure what your long run schedule is coming up, but I have long runs on Sundays and the next few weeks are as follows… 9 miles, 10 miles, 10 miles (Cleveland 10 miler on Saturday), 11 miles, 12 miles. If any of those fit your bill, let me know and we can run together. But, I think your runs are probably longer

I would definitely look at your diet, water intake, and rest. You can absolutely continue the cut the crap challenge, but make sure you are eating ENOUGH calories! And make them good calories – like whole grains, lean protein, fruits/veggies, nuts, etc. Do you have/use a camelback? You could fill it with a water/sports drink mix and bring shot blox or gu for your run. Mile 8 is definitely when my body starts to shut down, so you’ll need a boost! And believe you can do it!!

I think you need to see a chiropractor. And also what kind of shoes are you wearing? Have you been fitted for them at a running specialty store? I started running 6 years ago, and had the SAME hip pain as you after my first half marathon. It turned out that I wasn’t taking care of my body as I should have been. My shoes were an issue, as was the fact that I was insanely out of alignment. I am a STRONG advocate for chiropractic and orthopedic massage, as it changed my life. I pretty much quit running for a couple months because of the pain. I know some people are anti-chiropractor, but chiropractic is NOT a bad thing and is a maintenance tool that can help you feel a TON better. Seriously.

Oh, no I do not run unless being chased (or chasing an escaped dog)! But good luck & Happy Easter!

Maybe you are a little burned out and need a short break. Also, I take Hammer Nutrition Premium Insurance caps (basically a multi vitamin) as well as iron. Have you checked your iron lately?

Hmm.. I’ve never trained for a marathon but I am planning to so I’ve been doing a lot of reading about them. Definitely make sure you’re fueling right: the right amount protein and carbs are important and that is worth checking in to. Is it possible you are just run down? If your 20 miler is close you must be well into training and I’m pretty sure at this point you’re supposed to be getting tired, and therefore ready for the taper!
I think focusing on fuel, hydration, and sleep are your best bets.. but I’m interested to hear more on what you find out!

I have done several marathons and trained for a few more that I didn’t run (injury and pregnancy), so I have so many thoughts for you, but would really need to know more about your training plan. As everyone else has said, you are likely not eating or drinking enough to supplement the additional miles, but I have a few questions.

1. What kind of shoes are you running in, did you get properly fitted for them at a running shop? Could it be time for a new pair? Whenever I start hurting, it is usually my shoes.

2. Are you eating DURING the long runs? I take 4 GUs during a marathon and practice on all my long runs?

3. Do you run solo? I have a really hard time running over 10 miles alone.

I read your blog because you are so real & this is a perfect example! Sounds like everyone has a ton of great advice so Ill leave it to the runners, just wanted to tell you that you rock

[...] had some seriously phenomenal feedback on my struggling post. I can’t thank you enough for your incredibly supportive [...]

I don’t have time to read all the comments, so disregard any duplicate info.

1st – I read in Runner’s World that it is bad to take ibuprofen before running. After? If something hurts, go for it. It can hurt your kidneys.

What I have found with my training:

1. I need to eat A LOT. Sometimes I have to eat when I am not really hungry, but I have to get those carbs & protein in. I haven’t really gained weight, except for 1-2 pounds that I normally gain while training for a race.

2. Strength training is key. Core & legs (and those arms, too). I have been going to a PT for help with my IT band and learning new exercises to strengthen my leg muscles. It has made a huge difference in how I feel and how I run.

3. Make best friends with your foam roller again. I use mine at least once/day, if not more. I hate it b/c it is just one more thing I have to do, but it does pay off, which I know you know.

4. Make sure you are getting enough rest/sleep. This is just as important as training, which I am sure you also know.

I hope that you get through this. No, I know you will. You can do this. I have 18 miles this Saturday and will be doing 9+ on my own. My running girls are only doing a half, so I am on my own for the rest of the miles.

Chin up!!! ((HUGS)))

Hi Allison!

I’m training for the Marathon in May as well. I’ve been a runner my whole life. Did the half two years ago, injured myself training for the marathon last year. I’m back this year in a big way. PT helped with that.

Anyway, I’m having the same struggles you are. In fact, I did 20 miles today, and this is the 2nd time (1st time happened when I ran 18) that I got really sick after. I’ll spare you the details, but I mean really, really sick. I think it’s a lot of dehydration.

I do everything they tell you to do in training. Eat a lot of protein and carbs. Drink a ton. It’s great for the long runs up to about 17. After that, I can’t seem to figure out what’s going on either.

I’m gonna do some research though. Find some forums. Runners tend to be chatty on those things. I’ve been going to Second Sole in Rocky River to get my gels and Clif blocks, so I’m gonna reach out to them as well for advice.

I can let you know what I find out if you’d like!

Good luck, and if you want to chat more about it, shoot me an email. I’m always up for running chatter!

Erica

Hi Allison!

I’m training for the Marathon in May as well. I’ve been a runner my whole life. Did the half two years ago, injured myself training for the marathon last year. I’m back this year in a big way. PT helped with that.

Anyway, I’m having the same struggles you are. In fact, I did 20 miles today, and this is the 2nd time (1st time happened when I ran 18) that I got really sick after. I’ll spare you the details, but I mean really, really sick. I think it’s a lot of dehydration.

I do everything they tell you to do in training. Eat a lot of protein and carbs. Drink a ton. It’s great for the long runs up to about 17. After that, I can’t seem to figure out what’s going on either.

I’m gonna do some research though. Find some forums. Runners tend to be chatty on those things. I’ve been going to Second Sole in Rocky River to get my gels and Clif blocks, so I’m gonna reach out to them as well for advice.

I can let you know what I find out if you’d like!

Good luck, and if you want to chat more about it, shoot me an email. I’m always up for running chatter!

Erica

I know you’re struggling, but when you struggle is when you truly appreciate how far you come when you overcome it. You can do this, I know it’s wearing on you but push onwards. You are amazing, and you are going to prove to yourself how strong you really are!

[...] to all of your kind words, encouragement, positive thoughts, ideas, and advice – I formulated one heck of a game plan for the longest run of my [...]

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Hiya!

I'm Allison, and welcome to Green Dog Wine! My love of food (AND WINE!) took the freshman 15, to the college 50 for me. This blog is about my weight loss maintenance & healthy lifestyle, and my love of food, wine, and dogs! Cheers!

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