After a trip to Bulgaria, I was back in Maribor, ready to hit the road. I was still tired from the long drive and lack of sleep, killed my legs the day after arriving back and even went to the gym in between, but the urge to go for a Sunday long run was too strong to ignore. However, what started as a hopeful Sunday long run turned into a lesson in preparation and perseverance.
Running without a Plan
One of my biggest mistakes was not having a clear plan. I knew I wanted to run at least 10 kilometers, but I was undecided between 15 or 20 kilometers. Running without a fixed route or distance made it difficult to manage my energy and hydration. If you’re aiming to increase your mileage, having a plan is crucial. Know your route, distance, and hydration needs before you set out.
Surprised by the Weather
Another mistake was not checking the weather forecast. I assumed it would be cool because it rained the night before, but it turned out to be hot and windless. Always check the weather and prepare accordingly to avoid unpleasant surprises.
The Route: A Scenic Tour of Maribor
Despite the challenges, the route was beautiful. I started at Studenci, crossed Koroshki Bridge, and followed my usual 5k and 10k paths. I ran through downtown Maribor, passing the city park where preparations for a concert were underway. After refilling my water and taking a gel, I continued through Tomšič Tree Avenue, enjoying the shade and a brief respite from the heat.
The Mental Battle
The heat and lack of preparation took a toll, and I found myself walking parts of the route. It was frustrating, but each step was a small victory over my mind telling me to stop. These mental battles are as important as the physical ones in running.
Reflection and Lessons Learned
Running back home, I reflected on my mistakes. I didn’t get enough rest, overate the night before, and had too much coffee before the run. My heart rate spiked, and I was out of Zone 2 before I even started running. It’s important to learn from both the best and worst runs. Analyze your mistakes and feelings to understand why a run felt bad and how to improve next time.
In the end, it was a 15k run, adding to my weekly total of over 40k. Despite the mistakes, it was a valuable learning experience. Next week, I aim for 50k, but without setting limits in stone. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes, you just have to adapt and learn from the journey.
Technical Details:
- Distance: 14.59 km
- Time: 1:41:22
- Pace: 6:57 /km
- Elevation Gain: 48m
- Shoes: HOKA Mach X
- Weather: Clear, 20°C (feels like 20°C)
Final Thoughts
Every run, good or bad, teaches us something. Yesterday’s run was a reminder of the importance of preparation and listening to your body. Have you ever had a run where everything seemed to go wrong? How did you overcome it?
Strava Activity: https://www.strava.com/activities/11553522247