Need advice with training for 1st HALF

Saturday I did an 8 miles long run which was the farthest I have ever gone.  I was so tired after.  This week I haven't wanted to do my short runs as my trianing schedule calls for.  I did 3 miles Monday and haven't done anything since then.  I feel like I am not getting enough sleep and I'm too tired to do anything.

I am assuming that I should listen to my body and rest.  I think that I can do my scheduled 6 miles run come this Saturday and that I will be rested by then, but is it a big deal that I didn't do my short workouts in the middle.  I had 2 gym days scheduled this week too that I haven't done. 

I am recovering from a little chest congestion on top of that.  UGH!  I don't know what to do.  The race is February 28th and it's my first one and I am so nervous. 

Any advice would be SO APPRECIATED!  

there are some greater experts on the board, but it sounds like you may need to evaluate your nutrition.  i.e., both before and after your workouts.  if you deplete your glycogen stores during a long workout and do not replenish them it can lead to energy issues in subsequent days.... i've definitely noticed this, especially on stretches of 3 or 4 days in a row of strong workouts.

That could be a problem.  I am stuck between doing the high protein post op diet my doctor recommends and getting enough carbs in as a runner.  It's all very confusing to be honest! 

Thanks for mentioning that. 

Well hello stranger!!! It's been too long Vampi  . The most important thing for just finishing your race is your long runs. We all miss workouts here and there, and, IT'S OK!!!! Rest is probably the most important thing right now, especially coming off a cold. Focus on a 9 mile long run next week. A 10 mile long run the following week, and 11 the week after and then taper. You will do great! Don't be a stranger dude! Good to see ya....

You're too sweet!   

I'm still here working it!  Really trying to spend more time training and less time sitting on my rear in front of the computer.   

Thanks for the advice!  I think that mentally and physically I am just beat right now.   I am going out of town this weekend to visit friends so maybe I can get recharged.  

Where ya going?

Congrats on the 8 miles.

I felt the same way, for my first 1/2 last year.
I was worried I would lose conditioning if I took a break.
After my 8 miles I just couldn't complete the long runs, and I never felt good about the short runs.
The two weeks of being sick and not running actually helped me.
I was stressed out about it, but everyone assured me I wouldn't lose my conditioning in 2 weeks.
They were right.  I felt better on race day, I was refreshed and recovered.  The race was a success.

You can do it.  Give yourself a couple days of relaxation see if you don't come back refreshed.
Do something different, ride a bike, swim, lift weights, but take it easy on the legs.  Just keep everything loosened up and let it refresh.

Scott

The long run is the important thing.  The other runs are fairly important, especially if you have a time goal but getting in the long run is what is going to allow you to finish.  I ran my last Goofy (half on Sat and full on Sun) on about 20 miles a week with a couple 16 milers.  The training was awful but I completed the races and got the medal even though I did nothing much more than the long run in training. 

I have a feeling that you have a lot of heart and and would fini**** tomorrow if you had to.

Good luck