I did 2-3 speed sessions a week for my 10k PR, mix of intervals and hill repeats. Consistency and patience are key, don't rush it!
I think you're on to something with finding that sweet spot. For me, it's about getting out of my comfort zone and pushing myself to new distances or speeds. It's not always easy, but when I do, I feel that rush of endorphins afterwards. Maybe try adding some hill repeats or intervals to your routine to shake things up.
Love that no-nonsense approach. Accepting the discomfort can be really liberating. For me, it's about breaking it down into smaller, manageable chunks too. One step at a time, literally.
Good call on the Injinji socks, I've made the switch and haven't looked back. For tops, I'm a fan of Patagonia's Dune tees - they're super breathable and dry quick. I also always carry a small first aid kit and a headlamp, it's better to be safe than sorry. One thing I'd add is a whistle, in case of an emergency.
Great point about muscle gain! I've also found that incorporating strength training into my routine has helped with weight loss. It's not just about running, you gotta challenge your body in different ways. And yeah, tracking calories is key, it's easy to overdo it after a long run. Thanks for the reminder!
Yeah, I can attest to that! I was around 140-150 steps per minute and was constantly dealing with shin splints. After working on my cadence, I'm now around 165-170 and it's been a game-changer. What worked for me was shortening my stride and focusing on quick turnover. I also started incorporating strength training to improve my ankle and foot strength. It's not easy, but it's worth it!
I've been there too, expecting to shed pounds quickly just from running. But the truth is, it's a slow grind. For me, it's been about consistency and patience. I didn't see significant weight loss until I combined running with other forms of exercise and made changes to my diet. It's not a magic solution, but it's a key part of a larger puzzle. Keep at it, and don't get discouraged!
For me, it's about setting specific, measurable goals that align with my why. Ask yourself, what's driving you to set this goal? Is it to PR, build confidence, or just enjoy the process? Once you know your why, you can set a goal that's challenging yet achievable. Don't be afraid to break it down into smaller, manageable chunks too.
That's a great workout structure. I've had similar success with longer intervals, it helps to build that endurance and mental toughness. I'd also recommend incorporating some hill sprints to improve your explosive power and speed. Additionally, focus on pacing strategies during your longer runs, try to negative split and finish strong.
I've also done both, and I agree that a good coach can make a big difference. A generic plan can only take you so far, but a coach can help you identify and work on your weaknesses. That being said, it's not for everyone - it's a big investment. If you're considering hiring a coach, make sure you're committed to putting in the work and listening to their feedback.
I had a similar experience with achilles tendinitis a few years back. It took me around 3-4 months to fully recover. What worked for me was incorporating eccentric calf exercises into my routine. It was a slow process, but consistency and patience were key. Hang in there, you'll get back to your normal self soon!
I've learned to listen to my body and take walk breaks when needed. It's not about being a hero, it's about getting the run done safely. I also try to run on shaded trails or routes with water stops to make it more bearable.
Tapering anxiety is real! I've been there too. It's hard to slow down after months of intense training. But trust me, your body needs it. Remember, tapering is not about losing fitness, it's about allowing your body to recover and peak on race day. Stick to your plan, and try to focus on active recovery instead of extra miles. You've got this!
Negative splitting is a great approach, builds mental toughness.
Foam rolling and stretching after runs have been a game-changer for me. Also, I make sure to replace my shoes regularly and not push through pain.