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Re: X-Athlete, New Runner Any Advice...

guest — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 01:01:29 GMT

Kristi,

I'm glad you picked up a book and whoever suggested Hal Higdon's training plans had a good idea there as well. In the book I suggested, you actually only run 3 days per week so that's good if you're in a season where you are short on time. Someone suggested that when you run you are running as fast as possible. That is likely since you used to be an athlete. That is what you are used to doing. These training plans will help you with the aspect of pacing yourself. In any case, even when you read things that are for beginning runners or non-runners, remember that your mindset is different. Your athlete mind will want to push you further and harder than you might be ready for in the first few months. When you are aware of that, you'll be able to keep yourself from overtraining and setting unrealistic goals.

And as for my knee, the running doesn't bother me, it's long periods of walking and standing! Crazy, but that's what knee braces are for.

Take care!

Re: opinions on qualifications for Athena/Clydesdale categories

guest — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 02:58:14 GMT

I don't think I've ever been a particularly fast runner, but I would like to place in my age group now that I'm 30. I run primarily 10k's and half marathons though in 2010 I would like to do the Maryland Double in the marathon category. But I have never seen a race here in Maryland with either Athena or Clydesdale category. But, I guess being a female at 185, maybe I'm just overweight even with a bodyfat percentage of around 30%. Where do race where there is an Athena category? I would really like to know where the running field is a bit more even.

Re: X-Athlete, New Runner Any Advice...

guest — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 02:27:18 GMT

Welcome to the world of running!

Running was actually my first sport, but I know what it's like to be away from significant activity for awhile and to deal with knee injuries (I had a hyperextension of the right knee in 1998). I also have exercise-induced asthma, so I am usually guilty of too much too soon. From what you've described, I would say you hit a wall by overtraining (the heavy feeling in your legs) and perhaps did not include a good post-workout recovery meal.

I don't know if any of your previous training covered workout nutrition, but I would go to your local running store and find a recovery shake or bar that is a mix of protein and carbs. That will help you after training and races. You might want to also ask for specific recommendations for before a race or a long run so that you do not have such a quick build up of lactic acid and depletion of glucose.

I hope that helps...have a great time on your next race and take it easy. You may also want to try a book by Rodale Press called "Run Less, Run Faster." I think it's pretty good.