I love running. Since Boston, I have been floundering with my running workouts since I don’t have a race that I am specifically training for. I have debated and tinkered with MAF heart rate training and a few other ideas. Ultimately, my end goal is to run faster while not running harder.
I want to train both my heart and my body to run faster while not working my heart overtime. I will be monitoring my run progress by wearing my Polar H7 bluetooth heart rate monitor that is paired to my M400. I am already seeing progress with the healthy heart training.
I decided I am going to start a modified Couch 2 5K running program. It is modified because I can already run a 5K… but my goal is to run faster.
I am not sure if it will work… but this is my plan {for now}:
I am going to be following the intervals from the C25K training plan (you can google C25K for the free 8 week plan).
My goal/plan is to run hard and fast during the run interval. During the walk section I am going to focus on recovering, breathing, and getting my heart rate back down.
While running I will focus on (nose) breathing, increased leg turnover (faster cadence), running form, all while listening to my body.
Today was Day 1 for me. I kicked my own butt. Not going to lie… if I want this to work… I am going to have to push myself and be consistent.
It was 86 with humidity (felt like 90) and sunny. The 5K route I chose was a hilly country road.
I ran fast (for me) during my run interval of 1 minute (seeing splits in the 6-7 min/mile pace). Recovery (today) was walk for 1.5 minutes.
I am not sure if this will work for me… but I am willing to give it a good college try! It can’t hurt!? Speed work makes you a speedier runner, right!?
Here is what I have planned for fitness and running this week:
Monday: 5.13 miles *run&done*
Tuesday: 4 miles *run&done* + Daily Burn Black Fire OTM Air Force Style
Wednesday: C25K D1 (3.1 miles) *run&done*
Thursday: DB BH BF: Sweet16
Friday: DB BH BF: Weighted Tabata + C25K D2
Saturday: long slow SOLO run!? and/or family fun activity
Going back to basics with the C25K running program is something I am looking forward to doing. The challenge of running fast and re-programming my body that it can go faster is something I am looking forward to.
Janelle @ Wholly Healthy says
I used the Couch to 5K app when I first started running. It is such a great go-to. I sort of want everybody to try it haha.
Janice @ Fitness Cheerleader says
I love the C25K app! I used it after each of my pregnancies to safely return to running. Good luck with your experiment, I’ll be curiously following along!
Rebecca Jo says
I think that’s a genius plan… cant wait to hear how it works for you
Marcia says
I think you’ll definitely get faster. Have fun with it!
Jenn says
C25K is where it all began for me! It’s a great program, and I like how you are planning to modify it. I think you will see some serious results! Good luck!
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running says
I personally have never tried to C25k program before, but know several people who have who have found it to be successful. Good luck!
Mar @ Mar on the Run says
I’m actually doing something similar to get my running mojo back and training for a 10K! I’m excited to see how well I do and hopefully pick up some speed 🙂
MCM Mama Runs says
I’ve never done c25K, but I will be doing interval runs as part of my marathon training this time to try and get my speed up again.
jill conyers says
I’m trying a back to basics approach in several areas of my life. Kinda makes me wonder how and why I got away from it.
eliz frank says
With focus and determination, you will achieve what you are hoping for… Plus, you have both qualities anyway. Keep going.