Run Joy, Run!

I began this year with a commitment to the Triathlon sport. About five months ago I got out of foot surgery and began to "run."

I put quotations besides the word run because running isn't just running. There's so much to it (for me at least). Whenever I run, it never feels right. I have to think about my shoulders being relaxed, my elbows driving the ground, my core tight, my steps light and quick, my knees high, my breathing consistent, my eyes looking 30 ft. forward, my ball-of-the-foot landing, my most efficient speed, my heart rate - should I keep going?

When I started, I began running at a sluggish 10 min. mile while complaining how much I hated it. I was always tense; it felt very uncomfortable. I had shin pain, calf soreness, stomach cramps, and burping problems. =T Now-a-days I have to say that my body has overcome these issues. Great! However, I've developed others. Now, I have toe blisters and I was told by Coach Matt that I run like a "boxer" with my wrists high by my face.

Today, we did tempo training in spurts. I learned that this is the way to train one to run faster! Build those triggering muscles! I'm so glad I bought my foot pod! It keeps me in check! My speed, my distance and my heart rate conveniently strapped on my left wrist.

After a good effort, I averaged 7.73 min miles during my .55 mile tempos with increasing speed during each interval. Apparently it is always important to increase speed/effort and not tire out too early. Though I'm not a "runner" (yet), I achieved this increasing effort today.

It was sweet and motivating to get a mention from Coach Laura and a comment from Marianne...Way to go Ms. Negative Split! =)