So I’ve been running since high school, and while my endurance improves, I have never really focused on improving speed. Enter boyfriend/track&XC coach:
While John and I don’t often get to workout together, he agreed to help me try to improve my speed with mile repeats and constructive criticism of my stride/technique/form.
We walked to the track that is half a block from our apartment (one of my FAVORITE parts of our location) and got to work.
John showed me some great warm up drills and stretches and then timed my splits while I did 4, 1-mile repeats. My goal for each mile was to stay under 9 minutes–like I said, I’m not very fast!
Mile 1: 8:34
Mile 2: 8:45
Mile 3: 8:50
Mile 4: 8:56
I accomplished my goal and learned a ton about how I run. After each mile I took a 2 minute break and we talked about how I can improve my form. I learned that I need to focus on keeping my arms moving vertically, like a pendulum to help me move forward. I tend to sway side to side, engaging my core in the wrong manner. My feet hit the ground to far under my body, flat footed, so I don’t as good a push off as I could. Lots to think about, but I was very happy to have a personal coach.
After the repeats, I came back to the apartment and did a P90X ab-ripper dvd. This 20 minute dvd is a series of 11 core exercises with 25 reps on each. It is HARD and my muscles were a-burnin, but I felt pretty strong when it was finished.
I’m currently watching some tv and sharing kettle corn with John. I have to work both jobs tomorrow, but I am looking forward to a weekend full of boating, bbqing, and fireworks! I love the 4th of July!
See Sing Live 