Yesterday was the official start of my training for the 2013 Cherry Blossom 10 Miler. After a few weeks of plan-less workouts following the marathon, I was definitely ready to jump back in to a more structured approach to my workouts. Also, while I did get a fair amount of sweat in over the holidays, I also shamelessly indulged in everything the holidays had to offer and am ready to reset for the new year.

I had four easy miles on my plan for Monday. Although a warm front has moved into the Bucks County area (meaning an outdoor morning run wouldn’t have been dark and miserable, just dark), I still stuck to my beloved (/sarcasm) treadmill for this run. What can I say, I’m a wuss who doesn’t want to start the year with a busted ankle. I have speed work planned for later in the week, so I wanted to do this run at a (mostly) steady pace, with some light incline work to keep things interesting.

I made this workout up on the fly, but for once I actually wrote it down as soon as I was done so I would remember exactly what I did.

This workout was challenging, but I think it was still reasonable for an easy run day. Even though I was working hard, my pace felt comfortable, even on the incline sections. I’ll definitely be keeping this workout in mind for future workouts. Bonus points for not feeling any knee/hip/IT band tightness.

In preparation for training to start this week (and in continuing to try to let things go in 2013), I spent a good portion of the weekend cleaning out my drawers and closets and getting organized. I have a tendency to be single minded when I’m in training mode, meaning tasks like organizing and cleaning beyond general maintenance get thrown by the wayside. Although I try to do this a few times a year, I’m absolutely a pack rat and hold on to way too much stuff. Now that I’ve done an epic purge (it was ruthless and is kinda amazing I have anything left), I’m ready to take on the challenges ahead. I have big plans for 2013 so I’m glad to be getting off on the right foot.

Unrelated plug: Remember a few weeks ago when I posted about my awesome experience at Body Cycle Studio? On January 18th, the folks at Body Cycle are holding a “Kickin’ It to 2013″ commitment ride. The ride starts at 7:45 with bubbly and snacks to follow. I’ll be there, and if you’re in the area, you should come too! For more information or to register (remember, your first ride is free!), visit Body Cycle‘s website. (And let me know if you sign up!)

Now it’s your turn! Did you start training for anything this week? How’s it going? Or, how was your Monday? Tell me about it!

Tagged: Cherry Blossom 10 Miler, Easy, Goals, Morning Workouts, running, Treadmill