I decided that if I was going to be a serious runner, that I'd better whittle down my time, so I could do a 5K in 30 minutes or less, eventually. So, while my son was at swim lessons this afternoon, I took myself over to one of the treadmills, and punched in a higher speed than I've done before - 4.6 mph. Laughable, I know, but I gotta start somewhere, and if I'm ever gonna break 30 min on a 5K, I'm going to have to start consistently running at a 6mph pace. Anyway, I did 4.6 mph for about 3/4 mile, then had to slow down to a 3.0 mph walk for 1/4 mile, then I punched in 5.0 mph, and did that for 1/2 mile, then walked 3.5 mph for 1/4 mile, then punched in 5.5 mph for 1/4 mile, and cooled down at 3.0 mph for 1/4 mile. I couldn't imagine doing a 6mph pace for 30 min, but then when I ran the 5K in Cokeville three months ago, I couldn't imagine running the entire 5K at all. So, hopefully, there will be progress in the future.
Which brings me to my point. For those of you {Marci} who can even run a half-marathon, forget how long it takes, I am in awe. I feel like a little kindergartener waving around their stick-figure drawing next to the masterpiece hanging on the wall. I am not worthy! I am not worthy! (Imagine prostrate bowing). But I don't find it discouraging. I just feel determined to improve my time.
Hey, everyone remind me, how many runners are there out there on the HWHL blog? My memory is horrible. Somebody with a better memory write a list of who runs races, or at least runs regularly for exercise. I would like to remember better. Just curious.
Becky! You are on the right track with your walk/run pattern. There are a lot of things you can do to get faster, and you're doing them! I am impressed. Just keep pushing it every week. There is this thing called the magic mile, and it's been used for training since the 70's. Basically, you run a mile at your desired race speed, then take a walking break, then do it again...then walk for a couple of minutes...then do it again. You would do this every other week as part of your normal training. What this does is get your body used to running fast, so that on race day, your body knows what to do. Does that make sense? So if I wanted to get my 5k time faster, I would do this every other Wednesday, three magic miles with breaks in between, and on those days, it would be like I was running a 5k at my goal speed. Let me know if you want more info on this, but I think it would help you break up the miles, but still run them fast.
ReplyDeleteBecky, you are an inspiration to me. I admire you so much. Keep up the amazing work!!! I can't wait to witness all the amazing things you will accomplish.
I am not a runner. I am an exerciser. Parachuting accident at 20 determined that fate. =-)
ReplyDeleteI am a runner... and SO ARE YOU!!! It feels great doesn't it? I love that you keep pushing yourself... this is the best feeling in the world. I am going on a 14 miler tomorrow morning, I will be thinking of you when it gets tough!
ReplyDeleteWhat happened in the parachuting accident, if you don't mind me asking?? I went skydiving for graduation and my chute tangled, but I came out A-OK. Becky, I think you are doing a GREAT job!
ReplyDeleteBecky- Here's something that might encourage you: When I was training for my half marathon a couple years back, I could never run faster then 5 mph on the treadmill. It was so frustrating. But when I was outside, I could consistently run 9 minute miles feeling like it was comfortable and not pushing myself. Treadmills are so much harder for me to run on. My joints hurt more and I can't run as fast. That might be just me though. You are a runner!
ReplyDeleteI like to call myself a runner though I sometimes feel a little unworthy of the title. My next goal is also to run a 5K in under 30 minutes! Little by little we can both get there. Best of luck in your training.
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