Hard to believe that we’re at the end of another month already! Marcia has opened the runfessional and I’ve got a few things to share, so let’s get started, shall we?
October Runfessions
Now that I have the Detroit virtual half marathon behind me, I runfess that I am seriously questioning my decision to commit to the BAA virtual half. While I’ve been enjoying my running, motivating to run 13.1 miles is still a challenge.
I runfess that I have fully embraced using 4:1 intervals – they were key to getting me through my virtual half and I’m now thinking that I may just stick with them indefinitely.
It’s probably no surprise that I am loving my new Peloton bike – but I runfess that I’m loving it so much that I’m struggling a bit to find a balance between wanting to do all the rides and running.
These initial rides on the bike have been fun, but I runfess (bike-fess?) that they can also be very humbling. I had presumed that I’d be able to just dive into the classes. So after a couple of “beginner” classes, I decided to jump into the non-beginner Alicia Keys class, which would have been fine if I didn’t let my ego get in the way and just rode hard…within reason. But I didn’t – instead, I pushed to keep up with the suggested cadence and resistance. I was hanging on until the instructor called for us to get out of the saddle…yeah no. I tried and that lasted a hot minute. Note to self, those beginner classes are there for a reason!
So tell me, do you have any runfessions to share?
I feel you on the half marathon distance! I have one virtual half left for the year, that TT I always do in November after Thanksgiving. I don’t feel as motivated since it’s virtual. You are right, 13.1 is a far distance! I think I’ll just do it at my own pace, taking my time and enjoying the ride.
Wendy recently posted…Spooky Runfessions
I think your plan is the right one – I certainly won’t be “racing” mine.
I’d have a hard time doing a double digit run by myself, but if the weather cooperates it could be a great run.
LOL on the Peloton classes. I’ve heard others say some of the cadence/resistance combinations are unrealistic. I know in my indoor cycling classes I was usually at least 10 rpm below what the instructor called out.
I just kinda had to laugh at myself during that ride
Like everything, you really just have to find a pace that works for you.
I am loving the 4:1 intervals as well seems to be my happy spot! OH the bike classes are addictive and can be humbling as well. I consider myself a pretty accomplished cycler and some classes I am way at the bottom of the leaderboard. I am not always able to do both the cadence and the resistance goals. Just have fun and enjoy it!
Yep that’s my plan, just have fun and enjoy
That’s the biggest issue with Peloton – because there are so many different types of classes, it’s hard to find a balance. I try to plan out my workouts for the week on Sundays to make sure I’m getting a good balance of everything.
Sticking with the 4:1 intervals sounds like a good plan for your upcoming virtual half marathon. It’s all about finishing the run safely!
Absolutely – goal number 1 is to finish without injury!
I’ve been planning out my workouts too – there are just so many classes I want to take right now!
I runfess I can’t remember the last half I ran. I have no interest anymore in running that long. I think the London Marathon was my last long race. Have fun with your Peloton! I’m sure you’ll be past the beginner stage in no time.
Honestly, I think once I complete the BAA it could be a while before I see double digits again!
Way to go on the cycling! I’ve heard those classes are tough. I’m curios if I could hold my own or not..I’ve been on the bike a lot this year, but not many of my rides I’d consider as being comparable to an actual class.
I bet with all of the cycling you’ve been doing you’d do great with these classes!
One thing I don’t like about Peloton, and I do think about this a lot actually, is that the suggestions for paces (runs, my stationary bike doesn’t have all those bells & whistles), are for faster runners for the most part.
I understand that they’re trying to reach out to the majority, and I really don’t know what the answer is, but as a slower runner — if I’d tried to keep up as a beginner in a beginner 5k program — I would’ve been frustrated or injured. Luckily I know enough to adjust it to myself.
I considered the BAA Virtual for a hot minute. Way too much $$ for me for a virtual race!
I had the same thought when I first started the Peloton runs – could definitely be tricky for a new runner who doesn’t know how to go at their own pace. Their definition of “beginner” in general seems to be more advanced.
I’m pretty much over the long runs. I still have at least one virtual half marathon to do, but I really have zero interest in actually doing it. Heck, I’m having a hard time getting motivated to do a 10k…
MCM Mama recently posted…October Visit to the Runfessional: Exhaustion
Yeah I’m pretty certain my virtual half will barely resemble a training run.
I never took a Peloton class, but my first few spin classes were beyond humbling. The day II could finally stand up on the bike was the biggest victory ever. I miss spin, but I don’t know that I am ready for a Peloton.
Standing for more than half a second is definitely going to feel like a big win for me!
I did one virtual half this spring. It was my only option when the real life half I signed up for was canceled. I couldn’t get excited about doing it. It actually just felt like another training run to me and I didn’t do it at race pace.
I love your Peloton bikefession. I am sure I would have the exact same attitude as you do!
Laurie recently posted…Three October Runfessions
Oh yes, I can relate – my Detroit virtual half was really just a long training run. I really miss the camaraderie of in-person races.
I runfess that doing 2 halfs 2 weeks apart was 2 much for me! Part of me thinks that I should forget the half and stick to 10k’s, and of course the rest of me cannot wait to run another half…we’ll see.
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I don’t know how you did 2 halfs in 2 weeks?! Amazing
I understand what you mean about the bike and trying to find balance. I often get like that too, especially in the winter. As much as I love running outdoors, once I start riding my indoor bike or using the treadmill, it’s sort of a slippery slope and that becomes all I want to do….lol -M
LOL I know what you mean
Glad the 4:1 intervals are working well! I can’t believe how hard the Peloton classes…who are these athletes on the leaderboards?? Nuts.
Yeah I definitely wonder about who those people are at the top of the leaderboard!
I’ve found I’m happy in the 7-9 mile place but I am glad I don’t have a Half until Feb (if it goes forward) because I can’t get my head mentally past 10 miles. I know I’ll get there.. eventually
Glad you’re relatively enjoying the Peloton.
Cari recently posted…a year ago I became a marathoner
Honestly that 7 – 9 mile zone is usually where I’m happiest. I need serious motivation to crossover into double-digit land.