So I am using the beginer marathoner cool runnings training program. I run my first marathon March 15th in DC. So far as I progress I have had an interesting experience. I know running is largely a physialogical scientific sport in that, you can only progress so fast. From what I have read there is no Fast Tracking your running load without injury. So Im wondering if I have been pushing myself too far too fast. Throughout my program I noticed that after I finished 10 miles 12 miles 15 miles (especially bad) 18 miles and 20 miles first times PR for distance, I have been so sore that I can't hardly walk for at least 1 full day after the run. The last 4 miles of the 18 mile run my legs were so stiff each step was especially painfull. When I finished I layed on the grass for 10 minutes, when I got up to walk to my truck It took me a good 5 minutes to walk 150 yards. But after 2 days the stiffness subsides and I am back to running again. Is this okay/ normal when you push yourself for a new PR? Or am I harming my body? Running this marathon is very important to me and I only have three weeks until race day. Any advice would be GREATLY APPRECIATED. Also when I finished my 20 miles during the last 4 miles I felt super weak and light headed. I had to walk .15 miles and run the rest on every mile for the last 4 to finish. during that run I planted 2 bottles of NUUN along the running trail and drank a 70 ounce camel back, also I consumed 2 energy gels (one after the first hour, one after the second). I am a 31 year old male, 192 pounds.
PS. My training program has me running 4 to 5 hills early in the week...the program shows the distance I should run but does not mention what I should do inbetween intervals. Do I take a break? walk? or Just jump right into the next hill. If break or walk for how long?