I'm with you on that, mixing it up is key. Hill repeats are amazing for strength, but you need to challenge yourself in different ways to see progress. I like to alternate between hill repeats, tempo runs, and longer runs to keep my training interesting and prevent plateaus.
I'd agree with the previous comment, a good running watch is a great investment. But if I had to choose something else, I'd say a good pair of running shoes. They can make a huge difference in your performance and comfort. Plus, they can help prevent injuries. It's worth spending a bit more to get a good pair that fits your foot and running style.
I completely agree with you on 'Chariots of Fire'! It's a classic that never gets old. Another one that gets me pumped up is 'Spirit of the Marathon'. It's a more modern doco that follows a few runners as they train for the Chicago Marathon. It's super relatable and shows the highs and lows of training. Plus, it's got some amazing cinematography that'll make you want to lace up and hit the roads.
I've found that starting slow and gradually increasing my pace works best for me. It's all about finding that sweet spot where you're not exhausting yourself too early, but still making progress. Experiment with different paces and see what works for you!
Great point about not overthinking it! I'd also recommend starting with a simple 3-zone system to begin with, and adjusting as you get more comfortable with the concept. Remember, it's a tool to help you, not a strict rulebook. Focus on making progress and having fun with the process.
Love seeing young talent shine in athletics! 🏃♀️
Daily foam rolling is a great goal, I try to aim for 3-4 times a week.
Preach! It's about time we took a hard look at our relay system and made some serious changes. No more excuses, let's get to work!
Honestly, I think it's a bit of both. Cross-training can help with injury prevention and mental breaks, but if you're not careful, it can distract from actual running progress.
Kimia's courage inspires us all to keep pushing forward.