I can’t really believe it, but it’s already RACE WEEK!

Last Wednesday, I ran my final long run of 12 miles, so this week it’s all about the taper.  I felt great after the 12 mile run with minimal soreness the days following, which was definitely a change from prior training runs.  Overall, I feel a bit weird about this race.  I can’t really explain it, but I almost feel as though running a half marathon has lost it’s luster since I have completed a full.  Now, I’m not saying that I don’t need to train to run a half or that it’s easy to get in the mileage…but it definitely feels different.

Here is a look at my final weeks of training.

WEEK 7 RECAP

• Monday | Teach Bodypump
• Tuesday | Boot Camp
• Wednesday | Hot Yoga, 3 mile run

I completed this run just after my hot yoga session, which was probably a bad idea.  I was honestly doing it mostly so that Bernie could get some exercise in, but I quickly realized that next time I complete a hot yoga session a walk afterwards would be just fine!

• Thursday | 6 mile run

It’s amazing how 6 miles feels like such a short distance after completing higher mileage.  Just like usual, Bernie did wonderful and stayed right by my side.

• Friday | Tabata
• Saturday | Hike
• Sunday| Off

WEEK 8 RECAP

• Monday | Teach Bodypump
• Tuesday | Boot camp
• Wednesday | 12 miles

The weather was seriously PERFECT this day.  I brought along a little treat for Bernie to eat half way and I ate half a larabar at mile 6 as well.  My stomach and energy levels were great!  After the run, I did a bit of stretching and walking and was not sore the days after the run.  This was surprising to me, since I don’t do a TON of running when I’m not training, but I’m definitely not complaining about it 🙂

• Thursday | 3 mile run/walk (jog)

This was just a casual, easy jog with Bernie and his littermate/brother.  We ran to the dog park and then ran/walked home.  Honestly, it was just what I needed after that 12 miler!

• Friday | Hike
• Saturday | Off
• Sunday | Off

This week, I have a few shorter runs planned for Wednesday (today) and Thursday.  Friday, I will probably do a tabata class and then Saturday I will focus on stretching and walking (and sleeping!).  I’m getting excited for the actual race!

Questions about running with a dog?!

I feel like I’ve learned a TON about running with a dog through this experience and I would be happy to answer any questions you guys may have!! Feel free to leave them in the comments below, e-mail me (trebleinthekitchen at gmail dot com), or send me something on one of my social channels.

I hope you all have a fantastic and active week!