Week 10 Update (2024 Chicago Marathon Training)
Running 18 Miles, Storytelling Success, and a Fresh Start for My Son
Dear Duniyawaalo (People of the World),
In my previous post, I shared how I enjoyed a family-focused Week 9 while continuing my marathon training. This week, Week 10, has been equally fulfilling, with significant milestones in my running journey and personal life.
Conquering the 18-Mile Long Run
This week, I hit a significant milestone in my marathon training by completing an 18-mile long run at Lake Arlington in Arlington Heights. I ran 9 loops around the lake, which was physically and mentally challenging. Completing this run felt like a significant achievement, bringing me one step closer to my marathon goal.
Midweek Training and Rest
In addition to the long run, I joined my Fast Track Racing Team members for a 5-mile run at the Harper College track. Although I had planned another 4-mile run, I decided to walk 3 miles instead to rest my legs after the intense 18-mile run. My Garmin watch advised more rest, and I wisely listened to it, fitting in only one strength training session this week.
Helping My Son Start College
A significant personal milestone this week was helping my younger son move into his dorm at Loyola College, where he’s starting as a freshman majoring in Accounting. It was a big moment for our family, and it began an exciting new chapter in his life.
Storytelling Success at The Moth
I also had the opportunity to participate in The Moth StorySLAM storytelling competition, where I shared my comeback story. The theme of the night was “Comebacks,” and I recounted my journey from weighing 311 pounds and struggling with depression to completing the 2023 Chicago Marathon. I was thrilled to place fourth in the competition, which was an incredible experience.
Nutrition and Progress
This week, I stuck to my plan of eating healthy and nutritious food 80% of the time, celebrating my long run with a couple of drinks with a friend. I’m happy to report that my weight dropped another pound, bringing me down to 259 pounds from my starting weight of 267.
Looking Ahead
Week 11 will be a scale-back week, with a 10-mile run planned. I’m looking forward to taking it a bit easier and allowing my body to recover and prepare for the weeks ahead.
Planned Long Runs
Here’s a look at my planned long runs for the upcoming weeks:
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
Week 12: 13.1 Miles (Hidden Gem Half Marathon)
Week 13: 10 Miles
Week 14: 20 Miles (Fox Valley 20 Miler)
Week 15: 10 Miles
Week 16: 6 Miles
Oct 13, 2024: 26.2 Miles (Chicago Marathon)
Thank you all for your continued love, support, and encouragement. It’s been a week of milestones and meaningful moments, and your support keeps me going strong.
Stay tuned for more updates as I navigate through Week 11.
❤️ Rajneesh