Hello,

I am in a similar boat as you are... I am training for a half in February. Some days I feel like I struggle through a measly 3 miles and then I have days like yesterday I ran 6 and felt like I could have kept going. I am really struggling with the eating, making sure I get enough food in, while trying not to gain weight while training. It's a hard thing to balance. I also find that I run slower with my longer runs. I am curious to see what other people will say to reply because I could use the helpful advice as well!!

Any number of things can have an effect. The weather, temperature, wind, even humidity. How much sleep you've been getting and how restful it is. Stresses in your life that may be wearing mentally.  Biological cycles (guys too, to some extent).  Your health in general.  Your hydration in the days leading up to the long run.  Other runs in the preceding days.  And yes, diet. Try to eat a "normal", balanced diet, somewhat high in carbohydrates.

Len

I'm registered to run my first 1/2 marathon next May in Pittsburgh, so reading your posts here is making me aware of some of the challenges that I will be facing when I start my training. I always thought that your longer runs were supposed to be slower time wise. It can be discouraging when we feel so good on some days and then drag on the other days.  Are you using any specific training plan?  GOOD LUCK!&