Lesson 1: my fitness returned quickly. I can say that even without any speed work (aside from strides) I am back to where I was, if not faster. My MAF pace has dropped by almost 1 min in 3 weeks. Boom!
Lesson 2: It is hard to be coached. OK, maybe for some it is easy, but for me, it is an adjustment. I did not even realize it, until my coach pointed it out, but 2 weeks ago I ran almost all workouts NOT as they were written. Most strides were faster, my long run was faster by close to 1 min/mile in the second half, and most runs were a bit longer... This is what I always do with my training plans, keep the structure and then modify as I please. But, as I am learning, my paces are important as they are written, as they follow my specific times, HR zones, etc. So...I try...I read each detailed workout several times including right before I leave for the run. I am getting better at this.
Lesson 3: I like being coached. I did not know how I would react to being coached and being "told what to do". But this is working out really well. In all aspects of my life I have full control and responsibility. It feels good to just do the running, trust the plan (which I do, 100%) and learn along the way.
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Last week I ran my first time trial. Five miles when I was allowed (sort off) to run as fast as I could. In fact, I was told to not hold back and run all out the last 3 miles. Hurray! Finally! I really missed going all out, it has been a while... I ran the TT faster than I thought possible and I felt strong in my breathing and my legs. The last 3 miles were way below a sub 20 5K pace. Of course, nausea sucked but this is my weakness when I run hard, and it goes away as I train. I am really excited to start doing some speed work. I love to run hard!
My body is holding up really well. My legs are strong. I have been tapering the strength but still do an average of 20 min of "something" (core, pilates, circuit, plyos, jump rope, weights) every single day.
No races on the horizon for me, but I am gearing up for a couple of 5Ks and a half marathons April/May. So excited to see what I can do. But for now, I am really enjoying training!
12 comments:
Looks like things are going great for you. Glad you can run strong again!
Wow, last 5k in 5miles in under 20min pace! You are a beast:)
I think that I would have a difficult time being coached as well. I'm usually on the other side of the fence and do the coaching where I have to constantly remind runners to not race their garmins and to learn to run by feel where some fight me to the death. But I'm glad that it seems to be working out for you, can't wait to see where this puts you! You are already super fast, it'll be so amazing to see how much speed you pick up this cycle! Keep pumping out those great miles!
I think faster;);) I think you could 5K PR this afternoon. I think your HM PR is going DOWN DOWN DOWN in May. So fun to see you back on track. I know how much you love to run HARD and you've been doing an EXCELLENT job of holding back and NOT doing that until you were ready and now look how it's paying off for you!! I could not be happier for you or more excited to see how things are going to go from this point forward. You're the hardest worker, lots of talent but HARD worker! That 5 mile TT was fantastic.
Coaching has been super for you. I'm with you in the being "told what to do" but I'm also learning and seeing what a good thing this has been for you! An adjustment but when the trust is there, almost a burden lifted and a relief to just do the running as you say!!
OK-keep enjoying training and I'll follow and try to limit my "Holy Shits" and "Hot Damn's" while reading your RR's in church this year:)
Glad to read that all is going well. I haven't been coached since high school. I think it would be good for me and would give me a lot more structure!
Great job with your time trial!
Jenn, can I borrow your mind next time I race?
XOXO
Ha, laughing at Jenn's comment because all I want to say is Hot Damn or HOly Shit Girl! Seriously happy for you in this obviously awesome place you are at with your running. Hard work, talent, and having someone to help guide you and build you up. I am sooo excited to see how 2012 unfolds for you AM! I want to hear more about this 5 miler time trial!! More details.
Having had a coach when I ran in college, I sort of liked running ideas off with someone and listening was so important. I miss it - a lot sometimes. I think you will gain so much from this experience and come out stronger and faster!
You are doing just a GREAT job, AM! Who would have thought you'd do so well under a coach? I am super impressed with your willingness to follow instructions here..I should re-read my own plan three times before leaving the house :)
Fantastic TT!! You have been very patient and diligent with the strength. Payoff time is around the corner. Really looking forward to these april/may races!
Progress is the best isn't it? Especially when you are not used to being coached and you decide to put your faith into someone else - you will DO great and see the benefits this season! :) ENJOY!
Sounds like you're gearing up to run some crazy race times! Not that I'm surprised. You're always breaking through walls. Coaches are awesome. And it's something different. Sometimes different can be great.
Do you have some specific races in mind for the Spring? Also, I think I'll be running a long run on the BayState course this weekend...just saying. ;)
for some reason i didn't know you had a coach... or maybe i did and forgot. that is exciting!! i can definitely see you not quite following the plan though ;) i am glad it is going well overall!
I'm glad your coming around to having a coach. He's a good coach too - for pointing out that you weren't being very coach able!
So glad your feeling stronger and starting to settle in with your new running experiences!! This is going to be a big year for you!
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