Less noise, more smash and recover well

Something that is a source of real frustration for me is seeing posts from runners who have finished an ultramarathon and then seemingly three days later are off on a long adventure run, are back to training with "just a few intervals" or are so excited after their three days of eating one cookie at night but are ready to "get back in shape". It has become so normalized to jump right into training post-race that it gets praised for being badass or hard core. This is extra annoying to me when I see this from the elite runners as I think it trickles down to amateur runners feeling like they need to do the same. I hear runners having a hard time taking one week off post a 100-mile race. Or runners get antsy at meal times post marathon because they are not working out and will get out of shape or gain weight. 

If multiple races in a season, longevity in sport and avoiding injury are your goals, then you need to take time off from hard training and build back mileage slowly post races.  Most importantly, you likely need to eat more than you think post-race and not just for one day. 

If you need a role model, follow this year's UTMB winner Ruth Croft who is back running after a full month off of running and exercise to recover the 100-mile loop in Chamonix. 

LESS NOISE
"You’ve got toughness. What most of us suck at is honesty. Being real about when we’re struggling, injured, too tired, or just not feeling it. Imagine how different running would feel if you could say, “I’m kinda burned out right now,” without thinking everyone at your local group run would judge you. Hell, I bet a whole lot of them would even relate to you. That kind of honesty doesn’t make you soft. It takes some of your self-imposed pressure off and it makes you a smarter runner—and a way more grounded human." 

Territory Run Co is starting a cohort of people that Run Outside the Noise. It is an online space where you can let go of the pressure of running and embrace the fun and community parts of running. And since it is hosted by a clothing company, there will likely be good outfits.  

SNACK SMASH

• The Feed is having a huge sale TODAY, so if you are running low on run fuel, this is a good day to get some. Second best to the day after Halloween! One item on sale is the SIS Go Energy Bakes. Super soft bars in lemon flavor, not sponsored, just yummy. 
• Need some pumpkin smashing content right now? Thanks Oregon Zoo. 

STRENGTH TRAINING 
Join me Wednesday night for Strength Training for Runners. I want to see you there! Live to your screen, no commute needed.