Running Improvements

I am almost afraid to write this blog in fear that I will jinx myself but right now I couldn't be happier with my running. I still don't have a great feeling about ING and my ability to once again PR, but I know that I have a huge running base underneath me right now (4 months of solid running).

This week is evidence of how much I have improved. Tuesday, I went to the local track for a few half mile repetitions. I haven't been on a track in nearly six months. I would be remiss if I didn't take you back to my mindset for the day. Walking onto a track still gives me chills to this day. It was such a large part of my childhood and the memories of spending every afternoon running are innumerable. So anytime I step onto a track, I am flooded with emotions. I am also flooded with the desire to try to run 60s quarter miles only to find myself struggling to do it in 90s.

Tuesday's workout called for 5x800 at a 10k pace. I did the first two repetitions on the road en route to the track. Then I hopped on the track for the final three. My body was extremely fatigued from Saturday's 10k and Sunday's ride (it still is). I initially questioned my ability to hold a competitive pace for the duration of the workout only to be surprised at how effortless the first 4 repetitions were. The final rep drained me. However, I held slightly better than a 7:30 pace the entire workout.

Then yesterday, I had NO motivation to run. My body is seriously zapped of energy right now. I knew I didn't have the drive to do a 50' tempo run so I reluctantly decided to tackle a hilly route that takes me just over 50'. The legs were dead. There was NO power or torque to get up the hills. I decided to keep it at a casual pace instead of attacking. Imagine my surprise when I logged my workout and realized it was the 2nd fastest time I have ever run on that route. In fact, the fastest time was 3 weeks before Ironman when I was peaking. Compared to the last time I ran the route, I did it about 20s quicker and my average heartrate was 3 beats lower. That is a sign of significant improvement....especially considering it was warm yesterday and I thought my HR was high.

All in all, I am thrilled with my running success thus far. I need to be really smart over the next 6 months as I attempt to maintain my current level of fitness while increasing my speed and efficiency. If feels good to see positive gains and begin to feel competitive again.