I did an easy 8 miles this morning at about 7:10 pace. I got a horrible cramp at mile 3 and had to stop long enough for it to go away. I was in my abdomen, just below my ribcage. This is the same cramp that destroyed my last marathon effort in Tallahassee.
During the Tallahassee Marathon all was well until mile 17. At that moment this cramp hit my abdomen like a brick hurled from one of the spectators. I had to stop, this was the first time I've ever had to stop in a race. I tried to recover, quickly working my way back to pace, then it hit again. Tried to recover once more, but it happened again. Finally, I had to settle into a crawl at about 8 minute pace for the rest of the race.
I think it happened today because I finished my run late last night, which means I ate dinner late, then I woke up and ate before headed out again. I only gave myself 30 minutes after I ate this morning before I was out pounding the pavement. Not that I really want to, but I wonder if I could recreate this just to see if it happens again. Probably the better plan is to avoid this situation altogether.
Sorry so long-winded. Tomorrow is 6 miles easy.
One sentence that will likely NEVER come out of my mouth: "Finally, I had to settle into a crawl at about 8 minute pace.." You rock! But I realize that's literally like a crawl for you and that cramping sounds HORRIBLE!
ReplyDeleteHave you heard good things about the Melbourne Beaches and Music Half Marathon? That's the one we've settled on for our first because it looks like so much fun.
I haven't heard anything about this race. I lived over there for a while, it's a nice area. The bridges on the course are going to be tough.
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