Running Question/Advice

I did same thing, problem is that it's hard to compare 5ks alone because courses can be so different

The problem could be that if you are new to running and still building your base, you may just be training to get through the run as opposed to getting through it fast. If you don't train your body how to run fast, then come race day you will fall back into your "comfortable" pace. I'm going through this myself. It seems like no matter how far I go my pace is about the same. 10k/half marathon... 12min/mile... my current goal (now that I have a good base) is to start throwing in some 10-20 second fast repeats (fartleks) into my regular runs to start learning what it feels like to run fast.. then up those intervals over time. You can't learn how to run fast unless you are running fast. Good luck!

Edit: and of course "fast" is relative... I will be happy to get anything sub-10min/mile... ever lol

Edited by CincyMom 2014-06-24 3:07 PM

you are on the right track mom, in order to race fast you have to run fast. I started off easy just doing .25 mile sprints and then the rest of the mile on a jog.

I am now up to 1 mile on and 1 mile off and can tell the difference in my run times for sure. If you are anywhere near Colerain we have a group that does speed work every Wed

ECS49 is right. Your body has to get used to running faster. I would not say you have to sprint but do intervals at the pace you want to run and you will get there. I also bet if you pushed yourself you could probably run faster now that you do.

Thanks everyone! Lots of great points here!

So funny story the other day I was at the gym doing some 30 sec sprint intervals on the treadmill and I went up to a speed that said 8 min/mile pace and the whole time I was thinking wholly crap this is what 8 min miles feel like?!?!?! LOOOOL