I will be taking on the Run Donna (Breast Cancer Research) Marathon in Jacksonville, Florida this Sunday, February 12th. Usually I set an A, B, and C goal for each marathon to keep myself on track and have various levels of ambition based on how the day itself goes.
However, that is not the case for this marathon. For this marathon I have just one goal – to finish happy, healthy, and INJURY FREE!
I know it is best for me to go into this race with just one goal, and not to put too much pressure on myself, for many reasons:
1. I have been sick with the NoroVirus for the last two weeks and have not been able to do anything but lay in bed and get ill.
2. My adrenal fatigue is still very severe and it limits my training even when I am healthy, I just don’t have that push – I am always exhausted. (Only 9 days until I meet my new specialist about this, I am excited!)
3. My training SUCKED – with all my medical drama I only worked out about 2 times a week instead of the 5/6 I used to do.
4. I have been struggling on and off with tendinitis issues in my left foot ever since the NYC marathon.
Because of everything that has been going on my only goal for the Run Donna Marathon is to finish happy, healthy, and injury free. I’d rather slow it down and not hurt myself instead of pushing myself without the base to do it.
Let me know –
Have you ever run a full or half marathon without a time goal?
*I am praying that my new specialist is the answer to all my adrenal fatigue problems. I dream of getting my energy back so I can train for the Chicago marathon properly and set BIG GOALS for that one. I guess we will find out in a few weeks/months.
You are wise to “run happy” and let the other goals slide for now. I ran my last 3 marathons with no time goals and you know what? It all worked out just fine. Thinking all good thoughts for you and your appt. with the specialist.
Thanks Marcia. The race was ugly, but the appointment was promising.
Speedy, healthy and fun wishes your way! Good luck!
Thanks so much Mary Beth, it was an ugly one, but I would try the course again.
Sooooo much credit to you for pushing on while being sick. I would just stay in my bed. GOOD LUCK!
Turns out I should have stayed in bed, whoops.
I think your goal is realistic and healthy Abby. I can’t wait to hear about the Run Donna Marathon in Jacksonville but I’m even more excited to hear about your upcoming appointment with your new adrenal fatigue specialist. 🙂 Good Luck
Thanks so much, the race was not good, but I did have a great appointment with the hormone specialist and will post about that next.
I’ve run marathons without a time goal and, even though I like getting PR’s and don’t often get one, every marathon I’ve finished has been a good one! Hoping you’ll hear good news from your doctor and that you’ll have a great race!
The race did not go well, but I did come back to a good doctor’s appointment. So you win some you lose some.
And that is very good news!
I haven’t actually ever run a half without a time goal in mind (even my first one), but I did recently run a 10k with no goals because of my preggo status. Wishing you a speedy recovery and a fun race this Sunday!
Yes, preggo changes goals for sure. At that point the goal is just to listen to your body and finish.
Best of luck with this next marathon!!!
Thanks so much, it didn’t go well, but I survived.
I hope that you accomplished your goal & finished the marathon pain-free, Abby! I know that you’ve been having a tough time with being sick and dealing with health issues. Sending you good vibes for a healthy rest of your month!
Thanks, it did not go quite how I wanted, but we live and learn.