4/12/11
5 miles speed
That’s exactly how I felt about getting up and hitting the track this morning. I never have any trouble getting out of bed for a run but speed work is a different story. How can I loathe something so much that has absolutely, without a doubt, made me faster this training cycle? I only have 2 track sessions left before the marathon; can’t I just suck it up? Apparently not.
I was supposed to do 8x800m in 3:33. I had no intention of doing all 8 intervals. I was planning on doing 6. Well 6 turned into 5. My head wasn’t in it so my body wasn’t in it. Overall, my times weren’t terrible (with the exception of 1 interval): 3:37, 3:37, 3:38, 3:48 (oops), 3:37. I did a super speedy cool-down and was done with it.
When I came home (it was still really early), I wanted to go out and run another couple of miles. I hate the fact that I only ran 5 miles today. I think it’s awful that I feel that way too. I am tapering after all!
On the plus side, it’s really warm here and I got to wear shorts this morning!
Do you like or loathe speed work and why?
I love speedwork but I think everyone has to cut their workout short once in awhile…5 x 800s is still a great workout!
totally understand…when I first started speed workouts I could barely sleep from the anxiety…then I would be so tired from not sleeping. then I would just be in such a negative mindset when I finally got to the gym. blah. I am not sure why it is so terrifying!!
I think you had an awesome speed day!! even if you did cut it short…sounds GREAT to me 🙂 and you got it in so that is what counts!
have a GREAT day!
Thats still a great workout! And its totally normal to feel off during taper. Its all in your head, you will be fine!
Agreeing with others, you still did an awesome workout! Listening to your body is so important, especially in this stage of training. You definitely do not want to over do it and burn out both physically and mentally when you have come so far!
I completely understand how you feel though, I am so NOT a fan of speedwork!
Speed work is a necessary evil. I used to do my speed work on a track (and sometimes still do) but if I’m not feeling motivated to do it, I’ll just take it to the streets and do fartleks using my Garmin.
You still did a GREAT workout. And hooray for shorts weather!
I don’t loathe speedwork, but it’s hard work! Sometimes I’d rather just zone out on a run and speedwork makes you have to concentrate.
Exactly! You pretty much put into words what I was thinking writing the post. I guess I don’t like to concentrate while gasping for breath!
Yay for shorts! I also struggle with speedwork. I know the benefits but it is a mental challenge. It kind of makes me feel hardcore though! 😉