Aesthete Runner

This past week I finally committed to a training plan. I had a realization during a run where it hit me that no matter what plan I pick, I will run a great marathon. I don't know why I was so indecisive for so long, but I know myself, and know that I once I commit to something, I give it my all. I also know that I am in probably the best shape of my life in terms of running. While I have had some taper and recovery periods after races, I basically haven't stopped running since the last Chicago Marathon. I ran all winter, ran all spring, and thankfully I've stayed injury free and have been able to keep my mileage at just the right spot to avoid burnout, but to sustain my fitness.

The best part of running outside is seeing wildlife. Thankfully most of the wildlife in my area is harmless and I love sharing the trail with my animal friends!

And just like that, it's almost time to train for the Chicago Marathon again! One of the perks to doing a spring race is that I already have a great base under my belt so I feel as if this might be the most prepared I have ever been going into marathon training.

I am playing catch-up this week on trail pics, so enjoy the mish-mash of some of the fun running moments this past month.

I made it - the fourth and final week of the Daniels Blue plan. It was by far the most difficult week, but the past few weeks have prepared my body well and it feels good to have completed a challenging speed work training block.

Today's special post is in honor of Global Running Day. While it may seem like just about every day is a running day for me, there is something to be said about a day to celebrate the sport together.

 In honor of National Trail Day last Saturday, here are my favorite local trails. If you live in or visit the Western Chicago suburbs, check these out!

This was a great week of training. There were some hard runs on hot weather days, but the third week felt good. The past three weeks have flown by and I am now entering the fourth and final week.