I went out for an “easy” 3-mile run, and I ended up running my fastest 3 miles EVER.
I wasn’t trying to run fast. I even made a point to not look at my watch every few minutes like I normally do. I just ran at a pace that felt comfortable to me.
Apparently, comfortable to me is running the third mile in a single-digit minute per mile pace. What? This girl doesn’t run single-digit minute per mile paces (except with the starting and stopping of the watch during speed work with breaks in between sprints).
So, what does this mean? Why did I run my fastest 3 miles ever when running at an easy, comfortable-to-me pace? Well, I have some theories.
- All of the speed work and consistent training is paying off, and this turtle is finally getting faster. This means running faster without feeling like death.
- I was running by myself (which I highly dislike), so I ran fast to get it over with.
- Since I had this day off from work, I actually got enough sleep and didn’t have the stress of a normal workday. Maybe ideal pre-run conditions contributed to an ideal run?
- I ran fast to get away from a hacking, spitting guy.
This gives me some hope that what I thought was a far-off dream of an under 30-minute 5K isn’t so far off. Or maybe it was a fluke, and I’ll go back to being my slow, turtle self again.
How did you get faster? Did it take awhile to see a decrease in your time? Do you run fast to get away from hacking, spitting guys?
Awesome!! You definitely have a sub30 5k in you. I know it.
ReplyDeleteI haven't ever come across a hacking, spitting guy but I once ran away fast from a homeless guy who asked if I wanted to be his new wife!
Hahaha! Should I congratulate you on your engagement? :c)
DeleteHow about this theory, you are way more fit that you think! You ran a super sweet half a couple weeks ago and you've had time to relax your body and you booked it on fresh legs! Sounds like progress to me! You can totally run a sub-30 5k. 5k's are hard, you can't warm up and start slow for a negative split, you have to GO from the second the gun goes off, you speedwork will help with that. You're the fastest turtle I know! Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Julie! I like this theory!
DeleteGreat job! Getting away from gross guys is always good motivation to run faster ;)
ReplyDeleteSometimes I wonder if people do the same to me ... they run faster to get away from the pale, red-faced, heavy-breathing girl!
DeleteThis is awesome Jina!! I don't know how the weather is there, but I've read that training in the Summer conditions you to run faster in the Fall. I don't know if there is truth to that, but I'd like to think there is extra benefit to some of the more brutal training sessions I put in this Summer!
ReplyDeleteYeah, summer running is rough! It is cooler and less humid now. It makes sense that it has something to do with it.
DeleteCongratulations on improving on your time! I don't know how I improve on time but I do try to push myself a bit harder each time and keep track of time. Knowing my previous time always motivates me to work a bit harder the next time because I know I can do the distance. If I'm trying out a new distance, I hesitate to go too fast in case I can't finish. I hate to stop and walk.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with everything! I nominated you for an award on my blog!
http://www.gracedishes.com/2012/11/positive-body-image.html
Thanks! I always hesitate on longer distances, too. I'm probably too conservative, but I don't want to burn out at the end.
DeleteAnd, thanks for the award nomination! I appreciate it!
ewww. i have yet to run into a yucky runner, but i know i'd prob be that person. I'm a semi loud breather and i know i snot like a pro!
ReplyDeleteYeah, I have my issues, too: red, sweaty and a breather. I'm just a wimp when it comes to mucus sounds; I get nauseous. Probably more my problem. :c)
DeleteAwesome! My guess is the speed work is paying off. I bet if you signed up for a 5k right now and had good conditions - no super hot and humid- you would kill it in under 30. Or to ensure it is under 30 get a loud mouth breather, spitter to run behind you= you would probably age division place;).
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your new time! I'd love for you to join the "Empower Me Healthy" link up on Wed. Have and healthy and happy day.
ReplyDelete-Jamie
www.efficientbody.blogspot.com