Completed My Longest Training Run and Preparing for the Final Stretch
Week 14 Update (2024 Chicago Marathon Training)
Dear Duniyawaalo (People of the World),
In my previous post, I shared how Week 13 was a scaled-back week as I prepared for my longest run: the Fox Valley 20-Miler. I took on that challenge this week, Week 14, and completed my 20-mile run. With tapering officially beginning, I am focusing on recovery and preparing for the big day on October 13, 2024 (Chicago Marathon)
Fox Valley 20-Miler: My Longest Training Run
This was the big one—the longest run of my training plan. The Fox Valley 20-miler race went well, though the second half proved tough due to rain and high humidity. I had to slow down to conserve energy and avoid injury. It wasn’t easy, but my focus was on completing the race safely and getting my 20-mile long run in the books.
The weather certainly tested me, and I must admit, running in the rain wasn’t fun! After the race, my calves were tired and aching, but I felt much better by the evening. Despite the challenges, I am relieved to have the longest run behind me, and now I can begin tapering.
Light Week of Training
To ensure I had enough energy for the 20-miler, I kept the rest of my training week light. I completed one strength training session, a 4-mile speed drill, and a 2-mile walk. These lighter workouts helped me stay active without overexerting myself ahead of the big race.
Nutrition and Weight Loss Progress
I followed my healthy eating plan this week 90% of the time, and it paid off. I am excited to share that I lost 3 pounds, bringing me down to 254 (from my starting weight of 267). With three weeks left until the marathon, I am still on track to reach my goal of 250 pounds by race day.
Starting the Tapering Phase
With my longest training run completed, it is time to begin tapering. Over the next few weeks, I will reduce the distance of my long runs and focus more on bodyweight workouts. The goal is to give my body time to recover and be fresh for a marathon on October 13, 2024.
Planned Long Runs
Here’s a look at the overall progress and upcoming weeks as I taper toward race day:
Week 1: 6 Miles (Done)
Week 2: 8 Miles (Done)
Week 3: 10 Miles (Done)
Week 4: 12 Miles (Done)
Week 5: 10 Miles (Done)
Week 6: 14 Miles (Done)
Week 7: 10 Miles (Done)
Week 8: 16 Miles (Done)
Week 9: 10 Miles (Alpine Races 10 Miler) (Done)
Week 10: 18 Miles (Done)
Week 11: 10 Miles (Done)
Week 12: 13.1 Miles (Hidden Gem Half Marathon) (Done, PR by 10 minutes!)
Week 13: 10 Miles (Done)
Week 14: 20 Miles (Fox Valley 20 Miler) (Done)
Week 15: 10 Miles
Week 16: 6 Miles
Oct 13, 2024: 26.2 Miles (Chicago Marathon) — RACE DAY
As I begin the tapering phase, I am grateful to have the longest run behind me and excited for what’s to come.
Your love, support, and encouragement have been invaluable throughout this journey, and I can’t thank you enough.
Stay tuned as I prepare for the final stretch toward the Chicago Marathon!
❤️ Rajneesh