I just wrapped up week 6 of the Couch 2 5K plan. Yes, you read that correctly. I am doing the program again because 1. I failed miserably at the Bridge to 10K plan and 2. I like it.
I went and got myself some new running shoes over the weekend and they are either super, special, make you run fast shoes, or I really am moving faster than my normal slog.
Definition (because I am a self-taught runner and there was a long time in which I was all, “Huh? Negative split? PR? Heel Strike? What the heck?!” )
Negative Split: to run the second half of a race faster, stronger than you run the first half. So in essence, you want to go a little faster with each mile you run.
Today I ran my first negative split ever and when I was done with my run and realized what I did I was super excited and now feel motivated to finish the last 3 weeks of this program. Again.
Today I ran Mile 1 in 11:40 and Mile 2 in 10:40. Yes, I will accept all congratulations, pats on the back, and woohoos!!!! (For the record, I was running a 15 minute mile last year. Yes, I was that slow.)
And just in case you happen to be a new runner and don’t have someone teaching you to run either, (you have no idea how happy it made me to hear that some of you have ventured out onto the roads because of my accomplishment last year) let me tell you a little secret. Use your arms. A lot. Last year I was running with only my legs and it was tough. I was slow (you could walk faster than I could run) and I was exhausted at the end of each run. But this time around I watched Prefontaine and he told some kids to use their arms when running. And oh my gosh, it makes a world of difference- especially on the hills. So pump those arms away my friends!
It also helps to have a few motivational phrases running through your head. I still use:
I run because I can.
When I get tired, I remember those who can’t run, what they would give to have this simple gift I take for granted, and I run harder for them.
I know they would do the same for me.
I picture this sweet boy in my mind when I think of that quote.
*********
When subbing at the high school I got to watch the track coach for a few minutes and heard him say, “I have yet to see you make yourself uncomfortable!” Every time I want to quit I do a mental check to see if I am feeling uncomfortable. Somehow feeling uncomfortable motivates me all the more. Call me crazy it’s okay, I can handle it.
All I’ve got left are “long” runs. Come on super duper, make me run fast, new shoes. Don’t fail me now.
21 comments:
A 15 minute mile sounds AWESOME to me - but that may be because I couldn't do it.
Keep up the good work - you are doing a fantastic job. And you ARE an inspiration! So much so that (maybe) one of these days I'll get my rear into gear (but I wouldn't hold your breath....but the possibility is always there).
I am SO impressed! Ditto everything that Gigi said!
You go, girl!
Have mercy girl! You are AMAZING!
Love the new shoes (no five toes, eh? LOL)! ;) I am VERY impressed with you. Rock on. :D
OK I just read another blog and they referre to a negative split. I had NO idea what they were chatting on about! Thanks for the lesson and yeah you for running, I can barely treadmill it!
You remind me of my friend Robin who started running last year! She is realizing the same things, and was about the pace you were last year too! The second year is always better. I wish i were there to push you as well! I love to push Robin and listen to her whine.
Now, I need to come visit :)
New shoes are always a fantastic treat!
I just wrapped up week one of "Ease into 5K" and I'm feeling pretty good. Did week two, day one today without any problems. I try not to look ahead too far because I'll just scare myself when I see I have to run for MINUTES instead of SECONDS. RCC and I are doing the Bolder Boulder this year, which is a 10K race in just a few weeks. I won't be ready to run it, as it's a super tough race, but I'm thinking I'll just do whatever workout I'm up to on the Ease into 5k business.
Congrats on being so fast and thanks for explaining stuff that I had no idea about. (Oh, and for inspiring me to do this running business - not that I like it any more, but at least I know I can do it.)
Great job!! Negative splits are hard, so you should be very proud.
Cute shoes! Great job with the running. You are seriously awesome.
A 10:40 mile is amazing! I really need to get back to jogging. I haven't been since we started P90X and I kind of miss it:) I love your new shoes. What brand are they?
Great job on the mile! I don't think I could run it that fast.
LOVE your new shoes! And would you please hurry up and move here so we can run together?
Negative split? Hooray!
The only time I've gotten one is when the neighborhood watch dog caught wind of me the second lap ;)
I am so so proud of how far you have come with your running! I still mean to do the c25k but can't seem to get motivated then I had the stress fracture in my foot on top of everything else going on and I am a couch potato.
I wish I had your motivation..........
Ok. I LOVE the shoes. Totally amazing.
And, I can't believe I'm admitting this, but I am totally jealous of the fact that you get to exercise. Isn't it amazing what we take for granted until we can't do it?
Yes the arms! Often when I feel like quitting I just start thinking about my arms- usually they were not going enough- but when I concentrate on just them I get faster and can keep going.
I didn't know those terms either.
I am impressed. In teaching I discovered it take 3 years to learn a new position or activity. The first year is learning the process, the second is putting it all together, and the third is doing it really well. You are on your way and you will fly in year three.
Way to go I have started and not completed thT one yet. You have motivated me to try one more time. Keep going girl you can do it.
Love the new kicks! And I am so proud of you! Yipee on the negative split! That is not easy to do!
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