Mental Workout

I was a whimp this morning. The weather was fine, just a little cold, but there was a chance of wintry mix. I just kept picturing myself halfway through the run, getting pelted by freezing rain. It wasn't much for motivation, that's for sure. However, I couldn't miss my mini-marathon training weekly long run. I was scheduled to do 80minutes steady. So, I headed to the gym and hit the dreadmill.

I have done long runs on a treadmill before. I did 90 minutes in a hotel workout room once, but it was a battle and was also done about 2 years ago. Needless to say I was less than excited for this morning's endeavor. I started steady, but I was already sick of the "scenery" by about 20 minutes in. I kept looking out the window to verify I made a good choice in running indoors, but it never rained/snowed/anything. I was looking at the runners who were outside and was overcome with jealousy. The only good thing was that I had my iPod for the entirety of the run, where it normally dies after about 20 minutes in cold weather.

I finished the run...10.3 miles in 80 minutes, stopping once for less than a minute to refill my water bottle. My legs and body in general felt great, but mentally it was difficult. So, at least I'm done, and I can chalk it up to a workout for mental skills. I will run the remainder of my long runs outdoors though, that's for sure. Hopefully the weather will cooperate, but if not I will just have to push on through.