I cut back the mileage to six today to try and give the calves a small break. Spent a little extra time stretching after the run today to try and really loosen up those tight muscles and get some of the soreness out. I am finally starting to feel some releif but it is slow in coming. The back and hip felt average today and I was able to step up the pace for one mile today and really get the heart rate going. I have been trying to concentrate on my form the last few runs and staying relaxed when picking up the pace. Sloppy form may have been one of the causes that caused all the aggravation in my back and hip so extra attention to form will hopefully pay off. Based on my plan for tomorrow, I should end the week with 47.1 miles. My first taper week won't be much of a cut back with about 42 miles, after that it drops to 30 and then 13 in the final week before the marathon. Depending on the level of soreness I may cut that 42 mile week back a bit further to gain some extra recovery but at this point I can't afford to cut back too much and lose fitness. I will just have to take it a day at a time and listen to the body. | 