Rest the date

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Yesterday I spoke about the importance of diet to my Run the Date Challenge. Today I want to focus on rest.

It may seem obvious that the body needs to relax if it is to perform well. Tired muscles won’t be capable of working as efficiently as when they are strong. Energy stores also need to be replenished to fuel the muscles.

However, it isn’t just the muscles that need a break, the brain also needs the opportunity for some down time.

The brain plays a large role in running, especially over longer distances. Mental strength is key to achieving your goals. A tired or stressed mind will impact negatively on the body’s ability to function well. Often the mind is needed to override the impulse to stop and to keep pushing forward.

A tired mind can also be the result of a tired body, the two being intrinsically linked.

So mental and physical rest are key. This not only means reducing the volume of exercise and mental stimulation or stress, but proactively taking steps to ensure rest.

Taking naps or having an early night, a massage, or a warm bath, can benefit the body; listening to relaxing music, meditation or reading are all good for the mind.

Other helpful ways to rest include watching things that make you laugh, being in nature, spending time with people (depending on the people!), stroking a pet and enjoying a hobby.

It may also help to keep a journal, write down any things you need to do, practice gratitude and enjoy a hug.

Usually it is advisable to taper(reduce running) a week before a marathon. This time it is a bit different as the challenge starts with a reverse taper – starting on small mileage and slowly increasing. This means that the first week I will actually do 50% less miles than a normal week.

Nevertheless I have resolved to cut my miles the week before just to make sure that my body and mind are in peak condition to begin with. I’m aiming to go out twice at the end of August for no more than 5 miles at a time.

I’ve also been to see a physio at Physiologic in Hythe for a check up and was given the all clear. I’ll spend more time reading, meditating, watching Taskmaster and getting some early nights. Obviously, I can’t control everything. A three-year-old daughter with a tendency to get up early, a full-time job and the daily stresses and strains of life will not disappear but the key is to keep a positive mindset.

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