Today’s run:  4 miles

You all probably know by now that I am in training for a 50 mile Ultra Marathon.  You also probably know that I am dealing with a quad injury.  What you probably do not know is that I have a friend who coached track before she retired.  This is convenient!

On New Year’s Day, we ran a race in Hattiesburg, Mississippi and we stayed, as guests, at this coach/friends home.  We had a lovely time.  During our visit, she noticed me gimping around and asked why.  I told her about my sore quad.

She paid attention when I ran the race (12K) the next day.  Then she gave me some advice.

She said that my stride was too wide.  Ah.

She wanted me to concentrate on shortening my stride and having a more rapid turnover.  Ah.

So, that is what I have been doing since New Years~concentrating on shortening my stride and have a more rapid foot turnover.  It is difficult!  It is a mental activity!  But my leg is feeling better!

Yesterday, I ran 26.33 miles with a shortened stride.  I think I probably failed at the rapid turnover.  See,  with the shortened stride, I am turning from more of a heel striker into a midfoot striker (which is good!) and I have some major blisters on the balls of my feet.  I do not know what to do about this!

I ran 16 miles yesterday.  Just cruised!  Then the blisters struck.  I stopped at the house, taped up my feet and carried on.  The last 10 miles were a hobble.  Today, I ran another 4 miles.  I was supposed to do 8!  My excuse is I was running with a friend and she is tapering for a Half Marathon on this coming Saturday.  That and my feet are killing me!

That is my tale of woe. Tomorrow is a rest day!  YAY!   Saturday, I have another 8 miles, Sunday 12 and Monday 8.  Tuesday Rest.  Wednesday 26 and Thursday 10.  I have to figure out, FAST! what to do about this!

Suggestions are most welcome!!!