Training to run continuously for longer periods of time is a great way to measure your progress, but if you’re running at the same speed day in and day out, you’re likely to see your improvements plateau. Unfortunately for this week’s questioner
speed and can only manage half the distance I would normally expect to do, or I run at a comfortable pace, which is about 1mph less than Iwould normally run indoors. Is this just me or do others find a big difference?" – Ben GillamYour best answers
). The only way to improve is to get out there, run up hills and push yourself. It will hurt, but you will improve! – Nick LIt’s effort – not speed – that matters at firstIf you're running a hilly course and you're a beginner, completely forget your minute
and people around you).Anaerobic exercise such as weight-training has also been proven to give runners increased strength, speed, and core stability.When and how hard should I cross-train?If you’re new to the field of cross-training, take this advice on board
, but if you have a headache or feel nauseous you should have more. After hard sessions, especially if you plan to train again the next day, think about having a recovery drink. The carbohydrate-protein ratio of these drinks will speed up muscle repair
miles or add high-intensity speed sessions to your training plan. Such sessions will only put extra strain on your body and hinder rather than help your race preparations. Cross-training As tempting as it might be to channel your energy into other sports
bag to protect it or you might need to go buy a new one like me... – HappycatOf course, you could always...Go to the gym and do speed work or whatever on the treadmill! Mind you, splashing through puddles like a big kid can take your mind off those
guy who did his first half-marathon aged 27 in about 2:15, and now 10 years on is doing 1:13! – Stevie GMore haste, less speed As everybody else has said, of course you can, but I urge you to be patient and set realistic goals. I started running again
the race. Your digestion is slowing down - hence the dry mouth and butterflies - but your breathing should be speeding up, your heart rate increasing and sugar and fat pouring into the blood. Good things if you are racing. – CC(O)C(=O)OIt might be a cliché
can only make a sensible assessment from mile 18 onwards. – SkipIf you are doing run/walk, do it from the beginning (crowds permitting). – NessieDon't let the adrenaline take over, even if you’re running at a speed that is slower than you trained at
