With no races on the horizon, my weekend long runs no longer have to fit a specific training plan. I don’t need to focus on steady climbs for the Rock’N’Roll USA Half Marathon, going “fast and flat” for the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler, or rolling hills for the GW Parkway Classic. I can choose from a variety of routes depending on my mood, my schedule, and the weather. As for distance, I think I will make 8 miles my standard long run distance.
- Eight miles is long enough to feel like a long run, but not so long as to require a post-run ice bath.
- I can run eight miles without fussing over my pre-run breakfast and without needing any mid-run fuel.
- I can complete an eight mile run by 8:00 am, before the sun gets too hot.
- An eight mile base will keep me in shape for the Army Ten Miler in October and the Richmond Half in November.
If you’re not training for a race, do you have a standard distance for your long runs?
Did you ever have a Magic 8 Ball?
![The Ultimate Coffee Date](http://got2run4me.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Ultimate-Coffee-Date.png" "The Ultimate Coffee Date")
I LOVE MY MAGIC 8 BALL!!! and rolled my eyes when the husband said "I think there's an app for that now…"
Eight slices-o cake. That's all I can think of. And quite possible for me to achieve, of course.
Eight is a good distance! I think I'd like eight more myself if it wasn't the first & last long run in a typical marathon training plan. I've been known to use the Google magic 8-ball for important life decisions. It's not a good strategy, don't try it. 🙂
I think 8 is a good standard, base distance for you. Combined with your other mileage during the week, I think you'll hit the second half of the year in the best shape you've ever been. Base mileage is so key and not talked about enough.