As a runner, there are weeks where I really look forward to the long run and then there are weeks where I dread it more than the dentist (and if you know me and my irrational fear of dentists, you know that’s a big deal).
Last week was one of those where I was actually looking forward to 7 solo miles. I was watching the weather all week and Sunday looked like it was going to cooperate and let me do it outside. Then it all changed and I found myself facing my long run on the treadmill. I know we all have done it at one time or another and depending on the part of the country you live in, you might have to do it more than you would like.
So during my 7 treadmill miles, I started to think about what makes Long Run Days so great…now this is just my list and I will admit, I can be sort of a baby at times but maybe my five reasons to love long run days will help you look forward to Long Run Day
- No food guilt on long run days. In fact, I actually use food as a reward sometimes. Every long run is finished off by some chocolate milk and then whatever I want to eat.
- Recovery Time is the best. Long run days are the only times a take a bath. After some foam rolling, it’s so rewarding to soak in a bath, filled with Epsom salt after a long run.
- Play Catch up on tv and podcasts. I rarely get to sit and watch TV during the week so it is a perk to be able to catch a couple shows that I missed. That’s the only thing good about doing long runs on the treadmill.
- Hit the sack early. I put the kids down and follow quickly after that. It’s the only day where I don’t even think twice about 9:00 bedtime. Most days I have to unwind to get myself asleep but not on long run days. The second I hit the pillow, I’m done.
- Next Day is Rest Day. The rest day after the long run day is a rest day I embrace. I feel so happy to sleep in and enjoy the evenings free of any fitness guilt I might have. It really does FEEL like a rest day.
Now I know, these may or may not be motivating but I figured it was worth a shot.
Do you embrace the long runs or resist?
Why do you love long run days?
These are great! Your #1 tops my list, too. I enjoyed a guilt-free giant fountain Coke and a cupcake (or two) after today’s long trail run.
These are definitely things to look forward to! Epsom salt baths and no food guilt is the best. 🙂
I ended my 30km on Sunday with a Bacon Sandwich and it was GLORIOUS!! #iruntoeat
Yes! #1 definitely tops my list too!
Rest..so so important. And Epsom Salt baths ,heaven 🙂
Sadly, I’m at an age where I still don’t eat guilt free even on long run days. I did almost 10 miles this morning and have just eaten normally today.
I used to dread long runs for training, because I was never a ‘distance’ runner. But now that I have more experience am really enjoying long runs and look forward to them. I find them less stressful and its a few hours of ‘me time’
Food. It always tastes extra good at the end of a long run.
Definitely the food and sleep! I usually try to squeeze in a nap, too. And I just love being outdoors for that extra alone time!
I ADOREEEE the weeks when I am excited to work out! Isn’t it odd that it comes in week long spurts?! I know 11:59 on Sunday evening… Will determine my mood for the WEEK! It’s so weird! lol!
My number one reason – post long run ice baths (horrid) are always followed by warm naps (heavenly).
Mostly I love long runs (I only run outside) is the feeling of freedom I have. No one can reach me or for that matter even find me, lol!