Week 11 Update (2024 Chicago Marathon Training)
Embracing Life Changes While Staying Focused on Marathon Goals
Dear Duniyawaalo (People of the World),
In my previous post, I shared the significant milestones of Week 10, including an 18-mile long run and my participation in a storytelling competition. This week, Week 11, brought a mix of emotions and steady progress as I balanced life changes with my marathon training.
Transitioning to an Empty Nest
This week, we marked a significant transition for our family. My wife and I officially became empty nesters after moving our younger son into his Loyola College in Chicago dorm. While it’s a significant change, especially for my wife, it’s also an exciting new chapter as our older son starts his senior year at UW-Madison.
Scale-Back Week and Running Highlights
This week was a scale-back week. I planned a 10-mile long run to allow my body to recover from last week’s intense 18-mile run. I completed this run at Hamilton Park and Deer Grove East in Palatine. It was a good opportunity to reflect and recharge.
During the week, I also ran 4 miles at the Harper College track, where I met a few fellow runners training for the Chicago Marathon. It was encouraging to connect with others on the same journey and exchange tips and motivation.
Strength Training and Recovery
I continued my strength training with two intense sessions, one at the Y with heavy weights and another CrossFit session at Arlington Heights with my friend Tiffany Perry DeRamos. The CrossFit session left me sore, so I decided to skip my planned 4-mile run to give my body time to rest before the long run.
Nutrition and Progress
This week, I was more disciplined with my nutrition, sticking to my plan of eating healthy and nutritious food 85% of the time. The focus paid off as I lost another pound, bringing my weight down to 258 from 267 at the start of training.
Looking Ahead: The Hidden Gem Half Marathon
Next week is exciting, as I’ll be running The Hidden Gem Half Marathon on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
This race is particularly special to me. Last year, I achieved my half-marathon personal record (PR) at 02:43:51 (12:30 min/mile). I’m determined to give it my all this year and hopefully set a new PR.
Wish me luck!!!
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 (Done)
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 ongoing love, support, and encouragement. This journey has ups and downs, but your support keeps me motivated. Stay tuned for more updates as I take on the Hidden Gem Half Marathon and continue my marathon training journey.
❤️ Rajneesh