November's key word is discipline

Last week was a good week. I ran 100% on-plan. Although that didn't mean much in terms of mileage, it meant a hell of a lot in terms of staying focused and disciplined. I'm training to rebuild my discipline as much as my endurance. This week, I'll add another 10% with another 10% the week after that and the week after that.  I build for three weeks and then do an easier week wherein I go back to the first week's mileage.  My intent is to slowly, smartly build to a sustained 40 or 50 miles per week (MPW). I feel like that's a good level for me, though I have never done it in training. My maximum MPW has only ever been in the mid-30s during peak weeks of marathon training. So why do this to myself? Because I feel like I have a four-hour marathon within me, and I am not convinced I can achieve it without increasing my volume.  Once my volume is up, I will increase quality. 

Besides, I never feel better than when I am running 20-30 miles per week. My weight drops and my mood lifts. I know that's where my running needs to be.

Today, I shall apply for the 2011 NYC marathon. It's a lottery system, so there's a good chance I won't get in. But if I don't apply, I am guaranteed to not get in.  I really want to do this marathon. If I fail to get in, maybe I'll do Chicago again. Or Flying Pig.  The Louisville Marathon is a good last resort.  It's great to have options, isn't it?

100% of my miles lately have been on Vibrams. I'm not running totally barefoot for a couple reasons. Mainly, it's because there are oak trees in my neighborhood -- acorns everywhere. Three miles of running on acorns is no fun. Plus there's a lot of construction going on around where I run, and there's no telling what I'd step on. But the Vibrams are working out great. My feet and lower legs are getting in good shape.  I no longer have any soreness after even five or six miles. My only complaint is that my feet are starting to get cold as the temperature drops. I might need to invest in some Injini socks.