I have never been a big fan of things that are tapered. When given a choice between tapered jeans and wide-legged, I will always choose the wide-legged—something about them making my feet look humongous, and the fact that if I wanted to to be able to put them on WITH my shoes still on, I can do just that (yes, I still act like a 3-year -old, most of the time).
I know there are some tapered jeans that look okay, but every time I see them, I am reminded of the “Mom Jeans.”
Tapered haircuts are another thing I struggle with. Not that I don’t think they look great–they do! The problem I have with tapered haircuts, is the fact that I have such a hard time doing them. With 3 boys and a husband, who all like to have their hair tapered (or blended), it is hard to get it exactly right. Whatever happened to the bowl cut, or just growing it all out? I have been known to give my boys steps and a Jedi braid, in an effort to avoid the taper altogether.
I don’t think I do all that bad of a job, but it is still a work in progress…good thing I get a ton of practice.
Lastly, there is of course, the “taper” that is used as a running term, meaning that you cut back significantly on mileage and intensity, in preparation for a race.
As you can safely assume, from reading the above, this type of tapering I dislike just as much. It is extremely difficult for me to cut back on something I love so much. I love the feeling I get from a hard work-out. I long for the weekends when I can go for a long 20 miler. For me, the last 3 weeks of marathon training are 100 x tougher than any hill or speed work-out you throw my way.
This is why, I wrote my latest column, entitled “Do yourself a favor, respect the taper.” In the article, I talk about the importance of tapering, in marathon training. The links for the article are here and here, if you feel so inclined to read it…
Although I struggle with this part of the training, I know how crucial it is, so I suffer through it. I know it will pay off in the end.
In just over one week, I will see the results of my training, as I will be competing in the 36th annual St. George Marathon. I can’t wait to get some long, hard miles in! Wish me luck!
Time to 'fit' it in 
Thank Ari, I am almost at the taper point for the NYC Marathon (my first) and I hope it isn’t too difficult for me but I am preparing myself not to pretend I can add a few miles in safely like I know what is best.
For sure. Fortunately, every year my tapering time for the St. George Marathon is right during the first few weeks of school, when our family is super busy. I don’t have the time to put in all the miles. This doesn’t however, rid me of my antsy-ness.
It is really a crucial part of your training. Make sure to increase your protein intake, to help build/repair damaged muscle–this is a natural consequence of long-distance training. Take in lots of vitamin C, and rest, rest, rest!! You will do great! I’m excited for you!
Good luck Ari!
Thanks, Lisa!
Go Ari Go!
Thanks! Awesome job on your half, by the way!