Taper is a four letter word.

I hate tapering. The more experienced I get as a runner, the more irritated I seem to get during these times. I know it’s crucial for maximizing performance. We all do.  But as time passes, I am feeling more anxious about seeing my weekly mileage plummet, especially when I am still dealing with the mental repercussions from the 10-mile attempt in GA last weekend. I’m still 10 days away from the Disney Half and as I sit here at the computer, writing this blog, I can literally feel the treadmill peering over my shoulder mocking me with it’s console held high. “Here I am! Look at me! Over here! You know you want to!”   Yes, I do. But I also want a PR dammit! 

I found myself trying to play around with my tapering schedule this morning to see if I had any more room for “just a little more speed work” or “how about just adding a quick 3 miler on Friday”, or “What if I just changed this workout to this other day so I just can add in another……….”.  Stop it! Stick to the plan. Stick to the plan. There are no more ‘justs’. Unless it’s “JUST sick to the plan”.

ARGH! Who thought the toughest part about running would be NOT running when you were a mere newbie on the road?  You mean I get to cut my mileage in half before the race for 2 weeks? Woo Hoo!!!  I don’t think so. My brain is already playing tricks on me. My hips feel tight, my knees feel loose. What was that pain in my calf? 

Then there’s the whole body image thing that comes into play. I’m not running as much so I automatically cut back on food intake. I’ve lost 3 pounds in 5 days already. I’m sure it’s mostly water weight, but it is a struggle for me to keep my calorie intake up knowing I’m not burning as many calories. A little Foreigner anyone? Head Games.

Easy 5 miles on tap for today. Come on brain, hang in there with me. I need your strength.