Slumped.

[thom]

How long after a race is it acceptable to do nothing?

I suppose I don't truthfully fall into that category, but I feel very, very blah. The race last weekend was keeping me running at least 3-4 days/week, but now today is Thursday and I've run once.

I want to run in general because I feel good after (and usually even during), but I'm so tired or slow getting up in the morning I'm just not doing it. Do you ever have this dilemma? I don't think I'm sick anymore, but I'm just wiped out.

I'm really enjoying yoga once a week, but that's only 1 hour and not really cardio. I'd maybe try for my bike more, but it's getting so cold for cycling. And dark.

I don't know whether to try to force myself to get with it and run on a schedule, or if maybe I should take a few weeks off running to re-boot. I'm really out of sorts this morning, but maybe some of you are too if your big goal race is over?

Want to commiserate? What's your plan for the next few months?

[Susie]

I have run once since my half, which was about 1.5 week ago. I have a 15k in another week and a half, so I better get myself out there again soon!

I'm pretty sure I'm going to fake my way through this 15k and then give myself permission to take a break. Changing up the routine can be good.

[runblondie26]

Enjoy the break! Keep going to yoga, try some more cycling, enjoy sleeping in a later, etc. It won't be long before the running bug bites again.

[Wines Not Whines]

I don't know about you, but I usually run in the morning, and it's SO hard when the sun comes up late. I just want to stay in bed and veg. Hopefully it will get a little easier with the time change on Sunday.

[sadlebred]

After a bike race, I'm back on the bike for a recovery ride the day after. It's like that for most cyclists even for A Priority races. I do 20+ races/year, so I can't afford to take days off after every one.

[shorewife]

Since my HIM, I have not biked or swam at all and run only a few times. I've done yoga and cross-training classes. I'm enjoying the change of pace and trying not to worry too much about the lack of structure that I've become so used to having.

I think its important to take a break for mental reasons too. You deserve it!

[mollyrunner]

Enjoy your much deserved break! Are there any classes that you could attend? Maybe feeding off of others' energy is all the boost you need to get back after your break.

[ebeth]

So far, three days. But I have a half in 6 weeks so I need to get my butt in gear if I want my PR.

My motivation is low during fall and winter. I had the cold and the dark so very much. This is one of the reasons I don't think it's a good idea for me to do a spring marathon. I have a really hard time getting out and running this time of year.

[spunkypenguin]

I've been in a rut since my marathon...almost a month ago now! I ran a little the week after, but then had my episode. I'm not motivated to do much else. I keep saying I'm going to start NROL for Life, but have yet to actually do it - I just default to the "easy" class at the gym. I sometimes piddle around on the arc trainer. I feel like everyone goes through this after a big race. I'll be following for advice about getting back into it! I need to find my motivation before all the holiday food takes over and I have to start training for the next marathon!

[cinco]

Breaks are important in running. I usually take off most of December to eat cookies and spend $. Then I feel recharged in January. Taking new classes or DVD's are fun too.

[thom]

Oct 30, 2014 9:09:13 GMT -5 Wines Not Whines said:

I don't know about you, but I usually run in the morning, and it's SO hard when the sun comes up late. I just want to stay in bed and veg. Hopefully it will get a little easier with the time change on Sunday.

I'm definitely counting on a little boost from the time change!

The dark & freezing mornings are hard now, but I hope I'll feel better about it in a few months. I know I run well in the cold (and I'm usually a spring marathoner), so maybe I just need to acclimate. Hopefully these tips are helpful to others, too. Thanks all!

[labbie]

I'm in kind of the same boat. I agree that it's a good opportunity to mix things up/try different things.
 I'm trying to take advantage and do more strength and yoga. Also doing a 1x/week trail run with a group. Different aspect of running and I'm enjoying learning about it. It also goes slower than road running, so I'm enjoying the break.

[G22]

I usually go through a bit of a running slump after my big fall race is done. Its like the past 9 months finally catch up with me and I just need a break from scheduled training.

Totally normal. And if you have other things you want to do like yoga, mix it in and run a little less. Breaks are ok

[hannahb]

What others have said. Slumps are normal. Take time to change it up. It's good for your body and your mind

[breezy8407]

I wanted to hit 100 miles this month, but just couldn't bring myself to run on Sunday or Monday...or today for that matter I have known I needed a break for a while now. Sometimes what helps me is just running without a watch or knowing how far I am going and just running for fun.

I am looking forward to my new class next week...is there a class you can add to yoga? Or a dvd/online workout?

The dark and cold is hard. It doesn't help my motivation, but I felt great yesterday in 40ish degrees. I wish it could stay that way all winter!