Marathoners, advice please?

[shellfish26]

My fall goal race (half) is this weekend. In the months leading up to it, I have been averaging 30-35 miles a week, with my long runs peaking at 16 miles (last week). I still have 3 more weeks left of my training program, so I'll pretty much stick with that until the end of October.

I am using my group's training plan for my marathon (March 22), so that will begin the first week in December.  That week has my long run at 12-14 with a total mileage for the week of 29-38. 

So, the advice I need is:  What should my November look like?  My coach said I should be "ramping up mileage" in November, but honestly, I need a break.  No injuries, but I am just tired.   I want to run for fun for a while.  I'm not worried about finding the motivation for a full, because I know I will.  But a rest would help. 

Thoughts? 

[cinco]

I think your instincts are good. If you need a break, take one. Maybe just don't plan anything yet. Take the first couple of weeks of November off , running only light mileage for fun. Then if you feel like adding in some miles, go for it, if not you'll be fine. Your base is good enough that you can pick up in December with no problems.

[jamalynn]

I agree with cinco. Your mileage is high enough from training for this half. I definitely would relax for at least 2 weeks and then see how you feel. Good luck training!

[spunkypenguin]

I am also starting Spring Training December 1 and my plan starts with a 10mi long run. I have two 10Ks in November, so I plan to work on speed for those. The second is 11/22, so I will do 6, 8, 10. Basically take it easy - you're not going to lose that much fitness in a month, just don't jump from 6 to 12-14 in a week - that might hurt.

[gt7301b]

Rest up. I was only doing 10-12 long runs going into this training cycle and don't think that has hurt me at all.

[taratru]

Exactly what cinco said. Your head needs the break, and your legs will be just fine.

[kams]

Yep - I'd much rather start a marathon cycle feeling fresh and excited than run down.

[theoriginalbean]

Ditto everyone else! Take a break. You know what you need, and you have plenty of base, as it is.

[ebeth]

I'd cut the mileage for a could of weeks and then get back to business.

[hannahb]

Agree with all of the above. Your mileage is high enough now to take a break. It's better to rest a bit and then pick back up then get burned out

[shellfish26]

Thanks, everyone, for the responses and the thoughts. I've been side-eyeing some of the "advice" that I've received in my running group lately, so I'm very appreciative of the comments from you experienced marathoners.