Official 2015 Disney Marathon Thread

[FFigawi]

In light of this knee issue, should I skip the long session this weekend? Should I try for a long walk session on Jan. 1? That's a little close to race day, but still 9 days out. I'm trying to figure out the right balance between properly preparing myself as a new runner, and not overtraining and hurting myself before race day.

It's better to be undertrained than overtrained and injured. You've got plenty of good long runs in already. I'd skip your long run this weekend and focus on healing your knee. Next weekend, if it's better, you can do a 4-6 mile run.

 

[RnbwSktles]

I think I might be adding myself to the list of people trying to fend off an injury during this taper! At some point during my Dopey simulation weekend (which was this past weekend), my inner calf started bothering me. I don't remember exactly when it started anymore, but it was at its worst during my 20 miler.

I thought it was just a knot, which I am prone to getting, but it's just not going away. I skipped Tuesday's run to let it heal, but I a went out and did 4 miles yesterday even though it didn't really feel any better. It's most noticeable when I take my first few steps at a run, and then it either disappears for a while or just feels like general tightness in my calf.

If biking doesn't bother it, I'm going to be sticking to that for now. If it's not better by Marathon weekend, I am pretty sure I can at least run through it and hope for the best.

 

[JClimacus]

I think I might be adding myself to the list of people trying to fend off an injury during this taper! At some point during my Dopey simulation weekend (which was this past weekend), my inner calf started bothering me. I don't remember exactly when it started anymore, but it was at its worst during my 20 miler.

I thought it was just a knot, which I am prone to getting, but it's just not going away. I skipped Tuesday's run to let it heal, but I a went out and did 4 miles yesterday even though it didn't really feel any better. It's most noticeable when I take my first few steps at a run, and then it either disappears for a while or just feels like general tightness in my calf.

If biking doesn't bother it, I'm going to be sticking to that for now. If it's not better by Marathon weekend, I am pretty sure I can at least run through it and hope for the best.

I have occasional problems with my left calf, and really hurt it last August. Fortunately I've had no problems with it the last month and a half.

What I did is ride the bike and push my feet forward on the pedals to make sure there is no pressure on my calf muscles. I did this for a week and didn't lose much on my training. At this point, this close to the races, I wouldn't gamble with your calf at all and stick to the bike. Two weeks gives you a good shot to get it back to 100% or close if you stay off it.

 

[JClimacus]

I have real trouble with self-sabotage the closer I get to a race. Do other people struggle with this? I've been disciplined with my eating and training since last January, but this last week I've found it very difficult to control my eating. You'd think it would get easier since the goal is almost here, but just the opposite happens. I'm sure there is some psychological explanation (maybe subconsciously putting an excuse in place? Sabotaging because I'm afraid achieving the goal won't be as satisfying as I've imagined it will be?) Whatever it is it's frustrating... at least stepping on the scale today I got renewed resolve from what I saw to stay disciplined these last couple of weeks.

 

[jerivera]

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays with their families and friends this week!

Everyone in my house got the flu this week. So we've been in self-imposed quarantine.

On the positive: We all had had our flu shots this year. So the cases have been very mild, I think. Very low fevers with coughing/congestion (HEB and Walgreens made a killing with OTC meds from us this week!). It happened this week, with no classes and we already had most days off from work. And it didn't happen two weeks from now just before/during a fully paid non-refundable Disney trip with a race that we've planned, prepped and trained for for an entire year.

So, how's everyone doing on their tapers? This is my first real one. I was the first to get better, so I did my normal runs this week, but no long run last weekend (low fever). And I'm already starting to worry that running less feels a little too easy (and comfortable!!). I feel like I should be going out and doing a very long run this weekend or something or I somehow won't be able to complete the marathon now! ... I guess what I'm saying is that tapers feel weird...

Regardless, I hope everyone's taper goes well, everyone has a relaxing rest of the holiday week, and very soon a Happy New Year!

 

[jerivera]

I have real trouble with self-sabotage the closer I get to a race. Do other people struggle with this? I've been disciplined with my eating and training since last January, but this last week I've found it very difficult to control my eating. You'd think it would get easier since the goal is almost here, but just the opposite happens. I'm sure there is some psychological explanation (maybe subconsciously putting an excuse in place? Sabotaging because I'm afraid achieving the goal won't be as satisfying as I've imagined it will be?) Whatever it is it's frustrating... at least stepping on the scale today I got renewed resolve from what I saw to stay disciplined these last couple of weeks.

Glad to know I'm not the only one! I'm suddenly scared I'm eating too little for the race. "Need to get those glycogen levels back up!" It's the perfect excuse!

Plus it's the holidays. Excessive food is a feature of all holidays. Even when it's spent at home with the family.

I'm trying to get it back under control. Same reason you are. The scale is not agreeing with the "get glycogen levels up" strategy.

Only two weeks to go!

 

[Fruto76]

To everyone who is injured and/or sick... rest up and feel better soon!

JClimacus- self sabotage...yes, I feel ya on that one! And it's especially difficult with the holidays right here. I seem to get deranged a few weeks out from a big race. But by the time 10 days-week prior to race day rolls around I gather my miniscule brain cells back up and get back on track I'm very much an over thinker/worry wart. I know the worst is yet to come, being my first marathon, and I have a feeling the family knows it and is bracing for it this coming week!

 

[Ariel484]

So, how's everyone doing on their tapers? This is my first real one. I was the first to get better, so I did my normal runs this week, but no long run last weekend (low fever). And I'm already starting to worry that running less feels a little too easy (and comfortable!!). I feel like I should be going out and doing a very long run this weekend or something or I somehow won't be able to complete the marathon now! ... I guess what I'm saying is that tapers feel weird...

That's taper for you. It messes with your mind...totally normal (this is my third marathon weekend taper). Glad you're feeling better.

 

[ZellyB]

We've also all been battling illness. No true flu, but a nasty respiratory illness. No runs for me during the week but I'm finally feeling better. Planning to do 8 tomorrow. I'm hoping we are getting all this out of the way now so we can be healthy on the trip.

 

[JClimacus]

Glad to know I'm not the only one! I'm suddenly scared I'm eating too little for the race. "Need to get those glycogen levels back up!" It's the perfect excuse!

Plus it's the holidays. Excessive food is a feature of all holidays. Even when it's spent at home with the family.

I'm trying to get it back under control. Same reason you are. The scale is not agreeing with the "get glycogen levels up" strategy.

Only two weeks to go!

Well I feel better I'm not the only one!

 

[irishtwins1112]

I have real trouble with self-sabotage the closer I get to a race. Do other people struggle with this? I've been disciplined with my eating and training since last January, but this last week I've found it very difficult to control my eating. You'd think it would get easier since the goal is almost here, but just the opposite happens. I'm sure there is some psychological explanation (maybe subconsciously putting an excuse in place? Sabotaging because I'm afraid achieving the goal won't be as satisfying as I've imagined it will be?) Whatever it is it's frustrating... at least stepping on the scale today I got renewed resolve from what I saw to stay disciplined these last couple of weeks.

Me. 10 pounds since Thanksgiving. It is aggravating. I am trying to control portions but not restrict any particular food....but my nerves get to me and I eat the wrong kinds of foods. I let the anxiety determine my eating at times and that always spells disaster. I am really trying to focus on getting all my water and getting enough protein and fruits and veggies the next couple of weeks....but some comfort food is bound to happen.

 

[JeffW]

It's better to be undertrained than overtrained and injured. You've got plenty of good long runs in already. I'd skip your long run this weekend and focus on healing your knee. Next weekend, if it's better, you can do a 4-6 mile run.

Exactly what I go by. I'd rather be healthy and slightly undertrained than trained and injured at the start. Training for each of my 4 DW marathons has come along with a new injury (plantar faciitis, IT Band, achilles tendonitis, ...) and this mantra has worked every time.

 

[cmbouldin]

I'm loving all this advice! Hope everyone sick or injured feels better really soon!!

What are some dinner ideas that won't hold us back? I'm a very picky eater (not proud of it as a 31 yr old …) and I'm forcing myself to eat healthier and try newer things right now. What are some must haves for the race and the weeks leading up to it? Protein bars? Water? Bananas?

 

[FFigawi]

I'm loving all this advice! Hope everyone sick or injured feels better really soon!! What are some dinner ideas that won't hold us back? I'm a very picky eater (not proud of it as a 31 yr old &#133 and I'm forcing myself to eat healthier and try newer things right now. What are some must haves for the race and the weeks leading up to it? Protein bars? Water? Bananas?

You should try to eat what you've been having before your long runs. The week of the race is not the time to be experimenting with food and fuel. Stick with low fiber, lots of water, and some carbs & simple proteins.

 

[wdwpluto]

My go-to is baked chicken breasts w/ roasted sweet potatoes and some sort of green veggie.

 

[cmbouldin]

You should try to eat what you've been having before your long runs. The week of the race is not the time to be experimenting with food and fuel. Stick with low fiber, lots of water, and some carbs & simple proteins.

Oh, that does make sense. Thanks for bringing that up.

 

[cmbouldin]

My go-to is baked chicken breasts w/ roasted sweet potatoes and some sort of green veggie.

Baked chicken is always delicious! Thank you!

 

[disneyhorselover]

Wow - that's wonderful! 18 miles after an injury like that is really incredible and you must be so relieved!

The worst is definitely over!!!

That's amazing, 18 miles after a miracle recovery

Stay healthy and enjoy these last few weeks!

Thank you! I'm very thankful to my physical therapists for getting the diagnosis right on the first try and continuing to patch me up so I could continue to run and train!

Congrats!!!

I think this is pretty crazy, but I'm avoiding those dreams by reducing the stuff Im bringing along. (And I wear barefoot running shoes, so if I was wearing crocs, I guess I could just take them off!). But now Im getting worried - I had a bunch of stuff for the PHM and have been gradually weaning off the gear. For every half since (I did four his year) I trained with what each race provides. I've trained for the WDW full with lemon lime powerade, bananas, water and chocolate at approximately the time each is provided on the course. So I'm not carrying fuel or my water bottle. I don't carry a phone or camera. I tried to run 20 with my magic band and it bugs me so I took it off around mile 16. I plan to put my race retreat band in my skirt pocket and my bib will have emergency info. And here's the big one: I'm thinking of running without my Garmin because it stresses me out. Is this crazy? Does anyone else travel light?

I am the opposite, I like to go pack mule style and load as much stuff on my body as possible....I take my advice from my favorite Disney villian...Be Prepared! (ok that seemed funnier when I thought of it on a run...)

I'm usually so afraid of oversleeping that I wake up almost every hour. Even with 3 alarms, I'm usually still paranoid.

Glad I'm not the only one! Any time I have to get up early for something important, race or otherwise, I'm jolted awake every hour on the hour by the fear of oversleeping!

AND THE HAY IS IN THE BARN!!!!

Thanks everybody for the encouragement about the treadmill. On this cold, rainy day, it was definitely the right choice. Want to know how tired I was? I decided to watch an action movie to keep my mind going. I chose White House Down. Not a prime example of quality filmmaking, but exciting. Here's how I know I was reaching my limits: I actually teared up at the end. This is a profoundly dumb movie, so I must have been very, very, very short on brain waves by the end!

If anybody still has a long one to go, good luck! I read an encouragement on a website about long runs that said, "Pull that (expletive deleted that starts with an s) like a bandaid and get it done!"

Look out, Mickey Mouse! I'm comin' for ya!

Congrats on your long run, and on a dreadmill too...you are much tougher mentally than I am!

I'm loving all this advice! Hope everyone sick or injured feels better really soon!!

Same here-sending healthy thoughts to all you sick runners! Better sick now than in 10 days, right?

 

[disneyhorselover]

Ok guys, since between us we have a lot of injury experience, I have a new question for you guys....

About a week ago, I started having sharp pain in the end of my second toe...at first I thought it was a blister, but other than a small callous, my toe appears to be in pretty good shape. I've discovered that what causes the pain is the ball of my foot pressing into/leaving the ground (I think its pressure related), but the pain is only the the end/side of my one toe, nowhere else in my foot. The toe doesn't hurt to touch or bend in any way. The pain is very manageable when I wear my running shoes and hardly bothers me during runs, but is unbearable to walk around barefoot.

Any ideas at all about what this could be?

I asked my physical therapist (who I see twice a week about a mid-foot joint injury that is now mostly healed) and she had no idea. I made an appointment with a podiatrist, but with the holidays, it isn't until Jan 2nd. At that point, I am somewhat afraid to let them do any major treatments to my foot that close to race weekend, since at least I can currently run on it (though I might be wearing my sneakers to the pool since I can't walk without them...)

Ideas? Musings? Suggestions? I'm desperate for ANYTHING!

 

[OldSlowGoofyGuy]

Ok guys, since between us we have a lot of injury experience, I have a new question for you guys....

About a week ago, I started having sharp pain in the end of my second toe...at first I thought it was a blister, but other than a small callous, my toe appears to be in pretty good shape. I've discovered that what causes the pain is the ball of my foot pressing into/leaving the ground (I think its pressure related), but the pain is only the the end/side of my one toe, nowhere else in my foot. The toe doesn't hurt to touch or bend in any way. The pain is very manageable when I wear my running shoes and hardly bothers me during runs, but is unbearable to walk around barefoot.

Any ideas at all about what this could be?

I asked my physical therapist (who I see twice a week about a mid-foot joint injury that is now mostly healed) and she had no idea. I made an appointment with a podiatrist, but with the holidays, it isn't until Jan 2nd. At that point, I am somewhat afraid to let them do any major treatments to my foot that close to race weekend, since at least I can currently run on it (though I might be wearing my sneakers to the pool since I can't walk without them...)

Ideas? Musings? Suggestions? I'm desperate for ANYTHING!

Either sesamoiditis or metatarsalgia. More or less, they both mean inflammation under your toes. I had sesamoiditis for over a year. It felt like I had a pebble in my shoe, especially when I was barefoot. Only treatment was ice and anti-inflammatories. I continued to run with no ill effect. Switching to a wide shoe seems to have helped.

Did you change anything? New shoes, new socks, new insoles, new route with a different surface? If so, that could contribute to the problem.

See the doc (since it probably involves bones and joints, I see a orthopedic physician for stuff like this), get an X-ray to verify everything's in one piece, and with their blessing, keep running. You're in the taper now, so there's a chance the reduced mileage may cure it.

So then the big question is what to do between now and the doc appointment? Conventional wisdom would say stay off of it, just in case it's something more serious. You really have to be in touch with your body and evaluate the situation. Remember the advise above about under-trained vs. over-trained.

Good Luck!