Posture is a big one! I've also had to work on keeping my core engaged and shoulders relaxed. It takes practice, but it's worth it. I found that doing exercises like planks and bridges helped strengthen my core, which in turn helped me maintain better posture while running. Keep at it, it's a process!
I've been there too! For me, it's all about finding a route with some landmarks or visual cues that help me gauge my pace. Like, I know that if I hit that one streetlight at a certain time, I'm on pace. It's not exact, but it gives me a rough idea. Also, I try to focus on my breathing and effort, rather than the exact pace. That way, I can adjust on the fly if I need to.
Hill sprints are a great idea! I've also found that focusing on glute strength and hip mobility has helped me increase my stride length. It's all about generating power from your core and hips, rather than just your legs.
Hill sprints are great, but I think long hill repeats can be just as effective for building endurance. They've helped me increase my lactate threshold and sustain a faster pace over longer distances.
I'm with you on keeping it simple. I do around 5-7 minutes of dynamic stretching before my runs and it feels like the right amount to get me ready without exhausting myself. More than that and I'd rather be running!
I'm with you on the leg swings and hip circles. I also add some calf raises and ankle rotations to get my lower legs ready. It's all about finding that balance between getting loose and not exhausting myself before the run.
Good point, it's a tool not a rule, thanks for sharing!
I've experimented with HR training too, and while it's interesting to see my heart rate data, I think it's most useful for identifying patterns and trends. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and what works for one person might not work for another. For me, it's just another tool to inform my training, but not the only factor I consider.
Leaving your phone behind on runs is a great approach. I've done it too and it's amazing how much more you can focus on your surroundings and your own progress. Let's indeed celebrate the small victories and not just the PRs.
Same here, sometimes just getting out is all I need.
That's amazing! I'm inspired by your mom's story too. It's great to see people close to us achieving their goals and making a positive impact on their health. I think it's even more inspiring when it's someone who's not a natural athlete, but still puts in the effort to improve. It's a great reminder that running is for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
I chose my first ultra distance based on my current fitness level and training routine. I had been running marathons for a while, so I opted for a 50K to test the waters. I figured it was a manageable jump from 26.2 to 31 miles, and it allowed me to focus on nutrition and pacing strategies. Plus, it was a local race with a supportive community, which helped ease my nerves. What's your current running background, and what's drawing you to ultrarunning?
I had achilles tendinitis last year and it took me about 2 months to recover. I had to stop running completely and focus on strengthening my calf muscles. It was tough, but I learned to listen to my body and not push myself too hard. Don't get discouraged, it'll take time, but you'll get there!
I'm with you on this one. I don't worry too much about pace or heart rate on recovery runs. As long as I'm moving and not pushing myself too hard, I'm good. It's all about listening to your body and taking it easy. Remember, recovery runs are meant to help your body recover, not to get faster.