Rest is good

Rest is good.

But it is hard when you see the date creeping closer, and your program says “Rest.” It is less than two weeks before my biggest race this year. It is a stage race over three days with a total of 200k that must be covered. It will start in Amritsar and end in Chandigarh.

All the hard work is done. I peaked a month ahead of the race with a 70k and did several back to back long runs. I ran more than 100k for 5 consecutive weeks. I hope I am ready.

Now, I need to scale down. “Taper” is the word. Sleep a bit more. Do the same as always, but just less of it. Still, do speed work, but fewer repeats. Still do long runs, but not quite that long. Skip a day.

Today I skipped and it feels terrible. This Saturday just doesn’t feel right. I feel guilty. I feel slightly depressed. Rest may be good, but it is hard.

But for running (as for life) it is not just about the destination, but about the journey. I need to remember that there will be many other days to run. The Bible says that there is a right time for everything. (Ecclesiastes 3:2-8) Now is the time for rest and recovery.

Just as our muscles need rest to heal and recover, we also cannot keep on straining and stressing in work without regular periods of rest. The world does not always allow us that freedom. But Jesus said and still says: ”

Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

My mind and my heart find rest only in Jesus.

Keep running (but don’t forget to rest)

Stephan