I, Janae, promise to take 1 full week off of running (after my Las Vegas 1/2 Marathon) and only do slow, easy runs for the 6.1 days following the full week off.

WHY am I going (actually I am on day 4) on a running fast?

Because I am finally trying to be a little smarter about this whole running thing.

Am I sore? Nope.

Do any bones hurt? Nope.

Do I feel fresh and ready to go out for a beautiful, wonderful trot around the city?  Yes.

None of that matters though.  I felt like I really pushed it on Sunday and went my fastest (for the shape I am in right now) and so I am going to let my body recover. There is no point for me to go out for a run too soon and just assume my body is recovered and then get injured.  I don’t have any races coming up shortly and my bed has been a nice change of scenery from my usual brick wall view from the treadmill.

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(Pre-race top 1/2 of my face picture)

From Pete Ptzfinger:

“The common rule of thumb is to take one recovery day for each mile of the race.  That sounds simple.  What is a ‘recovery day’? Does that mean you sit around with your feet up? Does it mean easy running is okay, but no intervals?  No two runners are exactly alike, and the amount of time you need to recover will differ from that of your training partner.  Come back too quickly and you risk burnout or injury. Two -time Olympic marathoner Cathy O’Brien comments, “whenever I’ve rushed back too fast after a marathon, I always seem to end up paying for it later.”

Every runner is different and I am going to play it safe and do what I think is best for my body.  I have learned my lesson many times that I need more time to recover in order to avoid injury and that is what I am going to do.

Turns out I would rather run long term than keep trying to fit in runs right after a race.  +30 IQ points for me.

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Even though I am taking a few days off from running for rest doesn’t mean that I am not going to sign up for more races……

Stgeorgewidget

My sis and I are all signed up and ready to run the St. George Retreat Half Marathon on February 4th, 2012.  The retreat starts on February 2nd and includes all sorts of fun things besides just the race (group runs, sweet swag bags, yoga, pilates and zumba classes and chances to win tons of prizes).

I am just a little excited about this and started my countdown candy jar (there are 56 pieces of candy in the jar and I will eat one every day until we go down to St. George) to the big day.  I forgot to mention it is a really big jar….56 king size Milky Ways takes a lot of room.

You should come do it to.  Race information is found by clicking HERE.

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Mizuno Wave Rider 15 Giveaway HERE!!

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Have you ever done an all female race?  Who’s going to come run the St. George Retreat with me (I promise there will be dance parties involved).

-I did a century bike ride that was all woman but this is my first all woman running race.

Anyone else on a running fast right now?  What was your longest running fast ever?

Did you have a good lunch today?  What was it?

-A costco baked potato with cheese and steamed broccoli.

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90 comments

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I’ve done a few different all-women triathlons–Danskin, Tri for the Cure, and Athleta Iron Girl. I really like them and the environment is super supportive!

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Wow…those sound like a blast. I might have to join you in some of those!

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That’s similar to the recovery rule I’ve followed — one day off racing for each mile raced. So basically if you race a half, you can’t run at a race effort for 2 more weeks, after a full, no racing for a month. It’s always worked well for me. I usually do about 4 or so days off running completely (I try to walk during that time), and then just do easy pace running until I’ve waited the right number of days based on that formula.

I ran and enjoyed the full in St George a few years ago, I bet that race will be fun.

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You did…would you do St. George full again? I like your formula!

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I’ve never done an all-girl (woman, but I feel weird calling myself that even though I just turned 27 so I guess I am!) race, but it sounds fun! Very admirable that you’re letting yourself rest after a fast race on Sunday too! I’m following suit (but my race wasn’t as fast as yours!)

Running in Utah sounds sooo hard with the elevation – I got winded in Park City just walking! Move to SF and run with our fun group here, I promise you’ll love it so much you won’t want to leave! :)

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HAHAH I feel weird calling myself a woman too. I seriously would love to move there. (Start trying to convince Billy too)

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That St. George retreat looks fun! I was looking at it a month ago, but it won’t work in my schedule to do it this year.

Lunch was a small turkey sandwich and quinoa with chickpeas, broccoli and carrots. Yum.

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BUMMER….wish you could come! Next year? Your lunch sounds so good and so healthy!

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Yes, I am on week 3 of my 3 week running fast after my 50 miler. The coach I am working with to train for Boston made me do this :-) It’s actually been a really good thing. I want to start training on fresh legs. Plus, I discovered a whole bunch of active recovery activities that keep me busy! I will be nervous to run next week because I now I am going to be slow, but I am so ready to get out there again!

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WOW!! Week 3, way to go, that is super smart! You are going to rock Boston! Excited for you next week!

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Good! I’m proud of you. Everyone needs a break sometimes, especially when it’s your legs and RUNNING. So much stress on your joints, naa mean?

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You are so so right gorgeous girl. Hope you are having an amazing day!

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Ahhhhh that sounds like so MUCH FUN!!!! I love girlie races. The Athleta Iron Girl events are a blast! I will participate every year that I am able :)

I have done one easy 4 miler since the marathon and am doing a lot of sleeping, eating and cross-training :) I do not want to get injured again. I have another marathon on Jan 22nd followed by a half on Jan 29th! NO INJURIES ALLOWED!

Hope you are doing well gorgeous girl!

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So happy you are getting a bunch of sleep and FOOD after your awesome marathon! WAIT a second…what marathon? I want to come! You are my hero!

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Hehehe :) Carlsbad!! Such a pretty race! Followed by the Tinkerbell Half the very next weekend :) Can you say dress up time?!?!

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I think the longest running fast I have taken is 10 days. It is always hardest for me to do a running fast after an event though because i am so pumped I just want to run more and more. Sometimes you just have to function on intelligence rather than feel.

Lunch, glad you asked because it is my favorite meal of the day right now. Salad topped with chicken, cucumber, peas, green pepper, carrots, tomato, and those french fried onion things. Piece of WW with butter, clementine.
Your bake potato sounds delish……..Perhaps dinner over here.

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I hear ya….after all the adrenaline from the race I just want to go run. Um, your lunch sounds absolutely delicious. I will be copying you, especially the fried onion things!

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I’m so impressed that you are having a running fast! I just took two weeks easy (super easy) after my first marathon, and am now attempting to kick it into a slightly higher gear as I prepare for my next race. Number one thing always though: Listen to your body!

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Way to take time off after your rocking marathon! Excited to follow your training for the next!

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Good girl! I don’t know if I’d have the willpower… I’m a bit… impulsive and if my body feels good, I don’t think twice about pushing it, even when I should. But you’re doing the right thing!

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I am definitely impulsive too but billy is my better half and tells me to be smart ha. Have a great day Janine!

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I did the Disney Princess half in March and I have to say it was NOT a wonderful, all woman experience. Too many “princess” attitudes all in place.

The only time I go on a running fast is when I am over-training. I can tell by my mood. And then I take a few days off until my mood improves.

Lunch was a yummy 3-salad plate of egg salad, chicken salad and spicy sesame noodles.

The Kidless Kronicles

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Hmmmmmm yeah, that doesn’t sound like fun ha! Your salad plate sounds incredible. So I can blame overtraining on be grumpy wahoo!

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Smart choice!! The St. George Retreat Half Marathon sounds like a lot of fun. I have a couple of friends from California who head out your way to run the St. George Marathon. Have fun with your sister and awesome finish in Las Vegas.

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YOU SHOULD COME TOO!! Thanks Sandy! Have a great day!

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Best way to stay healthy is to listen to your body. I am not on a running fast cause I’m trying to hit my 1000 miles for this year, but after that I plan to take a little bit of time off. Not to much tho cause I want to start to get into marathon training and hopefully break 4 hours next year :)

I have ran 2 all girl races. You Go Girl in Tacoma, WA which I liked. And also See Jane Run in Boise. My fav race, probably has a little to do with a PR :) You would love it, it’s pretty flat and fast course. And the swag was pretty sweet, chocolate! And champagne :)

I’m going to check out that St George retreat, it wouldn’t be that far away from me :)

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1000 miles…you are my hero! You will sub 4 hours, I know it!! I might have to do that See Jane Run race…sounds like my kind of race!! COME TO ST. GEORGE!! PARTY!!

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I recently started reading your blog – love it!

Glad to hear you are taking time off – I hurt my knee in my 13-miler last weekend and going a week w/o running is making me crazy, but at the same time I know it will be good for me overall!

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Thanks Gillian! I am glad you found it. OH BOO to the hurt knee….good job taking time off and before you know it you will be running strong and healthy again!

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I’d like to think Pete’s statement is why my body basically rebelled in my half last weekend. It was exactly 2 weeks since my other half, so technically I should’ve been recovered but I ran in between to “keep in shape” which was probably dumb in retrospect. Oh well, whatever :)
I’m on a fast right now too. 1. My body needs it 2. I don’t have the motivation back yet. So today was Jillian Michael’s yelling at me from the TV instead of a run.

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YEP, I bet that is what happened but we live and we learn right:) YAY for a Jillian workout, those things kill me!

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Ahh…that looks so fun! Now you’re going to make it a tough decision whether to do the St. George 1/2 on Jan. 21st, or this one! I would say both, but it would be a little expensive for us to travel down both times (hotels and whatnot). The retreat looks like a blast, but once again that’s a little pricey for me…but I’d do the race…hmm.

I’ve done the Pink Series Half for Breast Cancer Awareness the past 2 years in Park City and love the all-girl atmosphere + great cause. You should check them out…I’m already registered for the 5K and 1/2 they are doing this year.

It’s crazy you asked about lunch, because mine was awesome today! I had a lunch date with my bff I haven’t seen in awhile, and we ate yummy food at Kneaders and chatted.

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DO THE ONE IN FEBRUARY:) The pink series sounds awesome, I will have to join yours. OH MY …kneaders is my favorite!

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Janae! I want to come to st. george and do that with you!!! We could finally meet! Is there an airport near there? I think it’s kind of far from me in Arizona!

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No seriously. You really should. I think it is 6 hours driving for you but they do have an airport. We would be the best of friends!

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My longest running fast was for 5 months after I got a stress fracture in my pelvis. I waited 4.5 months until it felt better and then I forced myself to do an extra couple weeks JUST to make sure it was completely healed.

YOU ARE SMART Janae, your body is going to LOVE you for this one!!

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FIVE MONTHS…that made my heart sing a little. BOOO!!!

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Sorry, I meant SINK…that is awful, a pelvis stress fracture!!!

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I did run an all-women race on Columbus Day in Boston! The Tufts Health Plan 10K for Women. Great race, beautiful course, tons of excitement. However, since then, I have only run 2 miles. Seems the running season and that final race did a number on my foot.

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Good for you for taking a much needed rest day!

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I’ve heard the 1 rest day per mile raced suggestion before…but can’t say I’ve followed it. I guess I scale back on my long runs for a couple weeks after, but I have returned to spinning, bootcamp, or shorter runs as early as 2-3 days after a half marathon.

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Very wise. You want to run forever not just today! I’m on a fast for 10-14 days…I feel great too (except for my stomach) so its hard to stop from lacing up the shoes, but I know my body will thank me.

Glad you and your sister can conquer another half together…when is Billy joining you? (Spencer will put the pressure on him!)

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Ha, the countdown candy jar is a sweet idea! (literally… Ha, ha) I’m totally going to borrow that for my next race countdown.

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I just ran the St. Pete’s Women’s half for the 2nd year in a row. Girl races are so much fun!! I took an unplanned running fast due to ITB injury after my 2nd marathon.

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I ran an Irongirl 10k in Seattle and the See Jane Run 1/2 marathon in Seattle. I enjoy the races for women (an some feminine men). There is great support and encouragement. Love the king size Milkyway jar!

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This sounds awesome!!! You have so many killer races by you – I wish Utah was closer to me :) I think taking the break is such a good idea! I did a full last weekend and have a half this weekend, but I feel like I reeeeally need a break after that!

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Thanks for your sweet note! And way to go on holding yourself back– I’ve learned that the hard way, too. Sounds like a smart training plan!

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Good job listening to your body chica! I think that truly is the hardest part about running. We do tend to run ourselves ragged don’t we?

That running retreat sounds so fantastic! I did the Women’s Half Marathon in Phoenix last year and it was a blast! I didn’t think I’d be into all the girly girl stuff (I kind of hate the color pink) but I actually loved all of the girl power :D

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My mom and I did the women’s only TREK triathlong. TREK and DANSKIN do a wonderful job. It is such a positve and supportive environment. We are excited to do it again next year!

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that events sounds so neat, haven’t seen anything like that offered in my area but wish there was. i’m was on a running fast for three days this week and currently trying to engage my body in some different activities for the remainder of the week before beginning base building next week for mary # 7.

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hi lady!
i ran an all women’s race in nyc w my mom several years. it’s called the more marathon. it’s usually in march or april. we did it a few times together…it was a little tradition we had until she had her back surgery. btw, she says hi!

i’m also on a running fast!! i haven’t run since vegas. i may take the whole week off as well…i’ve been shopping to get exercise. my knees love me.

i had spicy fish tacos for lunch and a huge cup of fro-yo with all different kinds of candybar toppings all over it. you would have approved.

i just love you and your blog! you are such a breath of fresh air. :)

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So far my paces are picking up, I’m pleased. After I run a half marathon I usually take a week off. I mean nothing! :)

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I went out for a run yesterday (3 days after the LV half) and thought it was enough time to recover, but my legs felt like lead! But I’m going back to it tomorrow. Gotta squeeze in as much running as possible until I’m too big with baby to do it!

I went out for dim sum with a co-worker today. It was fantastic! I can’t wait to eat it again.

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I did the Tufts 10k for women in Boston earlier this year and what surprised me was that there were a handful of guys in the race! Mostly it was a cool experience to just see so many women in a race.
My longest ‘running fast’ was the 10 days I just took off post-marathon. The first week was easy because I was still so sore, but around day 7 I got really antsy and went spinning. I’m hoping the rest keeps me injury free as I return to more serious training.

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I read the same thing about recovery after a race…but I couldn’t bare to take 13 days of running off lol But ever since I ran 2 half marathons within 3 weeks, my workouts have been more strength training-oriented and my running has kind of been on the back burner. I want to concentrate on getting stronger in different areas that will help my running. I have been doing spinning and the elliptical too.

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Running fast currently right now until Saturday, its our GOTR 5K. After that, no running for a week and just focusing on yoga. That race sounds fun! If it weren’t so far away, I’d totally sign up!

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Resting sounds like a smart idea to me. And the king size milky ways. Those sounds like an even better idea. :-)
I did a Women’s Half marathon last year but guys still ran it…they just couldn’t be timed. So while it was mostly women, there were still a lot of dudes running. One of them had pink fluffy socks on.

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A countdown candy jar?! That is genius!!

And I’m glad you are taking some time off, enjoy the time with Billy – aren’t you glad you didn’t run the full!!

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That race is right before my birthday (on the 5th!). I’ve never run an all women’s race, but I’m not sure if I would want to. Then I wouldn’t get the satisfaction of beating men to the finish line :)

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That race looks so fun!

I’m thinking of doing the More/Fitness Magazine 1/2 Marathon in April that’s all women. And I’ve done women group runs. And I’m doing the (NYC) GOTR 5k this weekend….. hmm maybe I need to get out there & play with the boys ?

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You are very wise my friend! Not on a running fast per say but not letting myself run as I feel the flu coming on: don’t want to pay for it later! My lunch was pretty fab: Mexican quinoa, black bean & cheddar salad!

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You are so so wise lady!!! You rocked that race now recover and give those legs a rest :) Congrats again!

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Good for you, for realizing your limits and for seeing the big picture. We wouldn’t want an injured Janae, now would we?

You have definitely got to be kidding about the candy bars!?

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I wish I was:) Hope you are having an amazing day gorgeous girl!

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I did a all womens race for a mothers day 5k. And when the women were running, the race people passed out carnations to the kids to give thief mom as she crossed the finish line. It was really sweet.

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That retreat looks like so much fun!! My friends aren’t really into fitness so much… I just might have to make some new ones to bring to Utah in Febuary! ;)
Seriously sounds like a blast of a weekend, and in such a pretty area!

Good for you for taking some time off! I went 4 days without running due to single digit wind chills here (iowa) this week, but I got out yesterday and today! Felt good!!

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Or just be my friend:) STAY WARM!!

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I’m so happy you are taking things so healthy!! I want to run a marathon so I can actually have a running fast :) I would LOVE to do an all woman’s race…id love to join you for the st. george!

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Suzie, you totally should….pretty please with sugar on top!

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Thank you so much for telling me about the St. G retreat! My mom and I were looking for a run during these winter months and this might be the one! We might also do the Mermaid Run in San Diego which is an all women run. And one question: would you recommend the SLC Marathon as a good route for a first-timer??

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AHHH YES…do the St. G. retreat and we can play. That is so neat that your mom is running with you. I LOVED the SLC marathon and it was my first marathon too. I also really really loved the Utah Valley Marathon too. I generally love all races so I might not be the best person to ask:) KEEP ME UPDATED!

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Candy countdown jar!! I love that idea! Much more fun than a paperchain countdown!

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That race sounds like so much fun! If only I didn’t live on the other side of the country! Have fun counting down :)

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I’m doing an all female half this Sunday, the RunGirl 13.1 here in Houston! I’m very excited.

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Congratulations on learning from your past mistakes! It’s hard to do it sometimes, but you’re doing what’s right. Maybe someday you’ll be out running marathons with your own kids!

That all female retreat/half marathon sounds like a blast! If I had the time and money, I would totally be there with you.

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I am a running fast right now, too. But I will be running on Saturday, I think. My longest running fast was from November of 2001 until August of 2010. I am so happy to be able to run again :)

I don’t think I had lunch today…I still feel crummy from Vegas :( So weird.

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I’m doing an Iron Girl 10k this Sunday, I think that this will be my first girls only.
Should be fun.
I can’t wait to hear about your’s though, that sounds like a fun weekend.

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I haven’t been so much on a running fast as a running diet since my full on Nov 5th. I’ve done a few shorter runs, the longest being 7 miles. I’ve also done a lot of weight training and boot camp style classes. Now I’m back in full training mode for a half in February and I feel great. I’m focusing on getting faster this time around and my coaches have warned that taking a rest day means taking an actual rest day – that’s hard to do. So far it’s working great. I took 25 seconds off my magic mile and tonight did a 2 mile run in 13:56, which for me is fast. I can’t wait to see what my body can do when I listen to it and treat it right.

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Currently on a running fast imposed by my doctor…got an MRI the other day and don’t yet know the results other than I’m not supposed to run for a week :( HUGE bummer, but I know that continuing to run could only make things worse, so I’m trying to keep my chin up and plan on doing more spin/yoga/upper body strength workouts!

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Hooray for Run Like a Girl! That is my Bootcamp Trainer’s retreat! She is so pumped about it! She is amazing and is whipping my lazy but into shape! It sounds really fun! I’ll tell her a famous blogger will be there–she’ll love that!! Have a blast!!

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Soo proud of you Janae for not rushing into things too soon after a race. You are a smart girl and I can tell you’ve learned soo much from your previous injuries.

I’ve never done an all-girl race but, it sounds like fun. I’d love to run the Nike Women’s half one day. Def. on my list to do.

Yes, I’m taking it easy for the rest of the month. I’ve ran 6 marathons this year and my body wants to REST. So, I’m going to. I’m not going to go on a “running fast” just gonna take it easy. Longest “fast” was my injury after Palos Verdes. 3 weeks felt like eternity!

Lunch was your fav. – apple, pecan chicken salad from Wendys and french fries. :) xo

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I am on day four of no running! I ran CIM on Sunday and was tired after the marathon, today I was supposed to run (3 days off after a 26.2 is good for me) but then I had a few too many margaritas at the open bar at my office party last night. can’t win em all.

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way to be smart with your recovery! :)

i’m on a forced running fast, my foot, so i’ve been on the elliptical for the time being, but hopefully get to get back to some ‘test’ running next week! sooo excited!!!

that next half looks like fun, i’ve done one all women’s race (it was a mother-daughter type of thing). :)

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This is SO SMART! Seriously, last year in November I ran my fastest half marathon ever…and was so excited that I took one day completely off, one day of cross training…and went straight back to running 40mpw. And then by December I was running 60mpw. And then by January I was burnt out and didn’t want to run, but I did anyways, and by February, though I didn’t get a normal runner injury, my immune system took a blow and I was too sick to run again (and still too burnt out to want to!) till May.

Right now I’m actually on a “workout fast” – my injury is healed but the rest of me is tired and hurting for no apparent reason and I think its just my body begging me to push the re-set button. It’s been a week and I’m only JUST starting to get antsy about running and the gym, so I guess I needed it!

And omg that retreat/race thing sounds EPIC! I so wish I could go!! Actually if I were only a wee bit more certain I’d be healthy, I’d totally sign up and fly out lol. I love your candy jar idea!! I’m glad you put king size ones in there, otherwise I’d automatically think “pshh janae is NOT going to limit herself to just ONE of those per day” hahhaha :-P

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I did a Woman’s Day 10K which I thought was all ladies, but there was men in drag. They were extra sweaty wearing a wig and running

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That race looks like sooo much fun and I love the whole retreat idea. You and your sister are going to have a blast!! I have done the NYRR Mini 10k which is all ladies and the Disney Princess Half. By far, my favorite half :)

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I’m on a running fast! I hate it. It’s forced. I have bursitis in my hip and basically the only way to heal is to stop doing what caused it (i.e. running). Oh well, I know it will pay off in the end!

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my sister goes to boot camp with amy valinga…the girl over that run like a girl thing. she loooves her, so i’m sure the retreat will be awesome possum. sounds fun. minus the running part. if it was all about painting my fingernails and eating cold stone? i might consider it.

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A countdown candy jar is hilarious – and a good idea!! I should start one…

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I am SO PROUD OF YOU! What a smart runner you are. It’s so hard to take time off- especially when you are feeling great. I’m seriously inspired by this.

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