Yesterday I was supposed to run 10 miles. 2 miles into my 10 mile run I started feeling my legs cramp us. I stopped my Garmin and stretched. After stretching I started up my Garmin and tried running again. Every step I took it felt like I was swimming in sand. My legs would not stop cramping. I tried running and running but it would not stop. So I stopped 2 miles into my 10 mile run. I walked to my car and I balled my eyes out. I started freaking out because I have never experienced cramped legs in my life. My calves were hurting. I was limping. I didnt know what to do. So I went home and sulked. Then I realized I shouldn’t freak out because my longest run was 9.5 miles. Second, for the past 3 weeks my long runs have been on hilly courses. Three, I started incorporating speed work about 3 weeks ago into my half marathon training plan.
So yes I do feel somewhat nervous because I have trained up to 9.5 miles but I am confident I will be able to tough out the last 3.5 miles.
Here is what my Last week of training looks like:
Monday: 3 miles on the Elliptical + 45 minute Power Interval Class at my gym
Tuesday: 4 mile run
Wednesday: 3 mile run or Cross Training
Thursday: OFF
Friday: OFF
Saturday: F3 Half Marathon
Have a great Monday night everyone! 
Don’t worry! I read that leg cramps are common in cold weather and Sunday was beyond FREEZING. You’ve done all your other training runs and you should be tapering now! Everything happens for a reason so perhaps this was your body’s way of letting you know it needs a little break before the half marathon
You’ll do great!
Thanks Irina. It means a lot. I should have known better but I was determined haha.
It’s good not to be worried! I was wondering if it was the cold too!
Thanks. I wasn’t used to running out in conditions like that.
Sorry to hear about the leg cramps. From what I’ve read about leg cramps (in normal weather) is that they are mainly due to running farther than they are used to. I got them pretty bad at mile 23 of the NYC marathon and had to walk/limp the last 3 miles! I also suspect that dehydration can predispose legs to cramping. That’s about all I know.
Thanks. I think I will be ok for the half on Saturday. Its supposed to be 28 degrees and sunny! Wohoo!