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by rubicon33 873 days ago
Re: running / activity...

I've always been a runner of sorts, but not super consistent. On average I would say I run 2-3 miles a week. But that could mean 15 miles in 1 week, followed by 2-3 weeks of low, or even zero running.

My main problem is consistency and I can only hazard a guess that its consistency that produces the really beneficial effects? Because on those weeks where I do run a lot, I generally don't feel much better. In fact, in the last 2 years I've started feeling worse. Beat down, tired, and not energized by the run.

I've recently tried going from distance running (5 miles) to speed running. I'll run two miles, in a 6:30 pace, rather than 5 miles in a 8:00 pace.

The result is actually a much more brutal feeling, with much heavier breathing, and much more soreness. But surprisingly, I actually feel a little bit of that positive feeling. I've only JUST started doing this so its too early to tell, but the really high cardio and heavy breathing seems like it may have some potential to reverse some of the negatives I've accrued.

To sum it up - I've actually always been active and I'm in good/ok shape, but I generally am not really pushing it. I run distance, not speed. I rest a lot. Maybe I'm just not active ENOUGH.

1 comments

I hear you. Consistency is key. Scheduling a race few months in the future can clarify the immediate 'why' - the big picture is not the race but health. The path is the goal, really. This becomes clearer with consistent training. Like with anything, progressive overload comes naturally as consistent training builds endurance and an/aerobic capacity. You just operate at the increasing levels of effort your body and mind can handle. Consult your doctor if any health concerns arise as you progress and observe your body. Good luck, I'm off to my morning run!