With the Chicago Marathon coming up in two short months, it’s time to hit some significant mileage. So two weekends ago, I attempted my longest training run since January – 15 miles.

I started out the night before as I usually do before a long run, with laying out my clothes and everything else I need on my run. This usually includes my hydration pack, fuel, sunglasses, hat, sweatband and iPod shuffle.

The next morning I was up by 5:45 in order to eat a little something, stretch, get dressed and head out to the park, which is about 15 minutes away. By 6:45 I was at the park and ready to roll.

Now with the Atlanta heat/humidity, my long runs have become slower and slower, which I know is probably a good thing. And since I knew I would be running for at least 2:30 or more, I was going to have to really listen to my body, especially after the first 90 minutes.

I really like the course at the Cochran Shoals Trail by the Chattachoochee River. It’s a nice easy 3.1 mile loop with very little elevation. Plus, it has 2 bathrooms (one at the front and one in the middle) and several water fountains. 

The run went as well as could be expected. The weather, while very humid, never got above the low 80s, which is why I was aiming to be running as early as possible.