"In endurance sports, particularly cycling and running, hitting the wall .... describes a condition caused by the depletion of glycogen stores in the liver and muscles, which manifests itself by precipitous fatigue and loss of energy. Unless glycogen stores are replenished during exercise, glycogen stores in such an individual will be depleted after ... 15 miles (24 km) of running."It was 81 degrees, or more, on Saturday morning. I did start said run with 9 miles of continuous uphill from Roslindale Square to Boston College. But I did also eat a big breakfast that included peanut butter, bananas and V-8. Did drink water, lots, before and during. Did (think I did, anyway) replenish glycogen stores at miles 3 and 9. Did try to talk myself out of talking myself out of stopping.
Alas. While approaching the lovely shaded paths of Olmsted Park (indeed, Wikipedia, at mile 15!) I hit the wall so hard a helmet would have been helpful.
Hm. Sucks.
However, walking the last 4.14 (waterless, glycogen-less) miles in the noon sun (while alternatively berating myself for failure to load and berating myself for berating myself because I did, after all, make it 15 miles) was markedly less hellish because of the pretty path back to the car (around the Jamaica Pond and Arnold Arboretum).
Upon returning to Rozzie Square, the only thing my body craved was Gatorade and a Dunkin' Donuts low-fat blueberry muffin. Both of which I put down in about 45 seconds and did not photograph for your viewing pleasure before doing so.
(Here. Have a DD logo instead.)
I have unfinished business with this 19.14 route, my friends.
Both you and I are are going to see it again next week.
1 comment:
I recommend non-fat Fig Newmans for topping up the glycogen stores. I mean, isn't that really the reason to run anyway? Cookies all the time!
Post a Comment