I Feel Good!!

I ran a training 5k today on one of my favorite routes. My plan was to move along at a quick, but comfortable pace. I was thinking perhaks 10:30 or so per mile. So I set out on this beautiful 68 degree morning with this simple plan: run at a quick, but comfortable pace.

I ran without my heartrate monitor. I just judged how I felt while concentrating on leg speed. Much to my surprise, I ran 3.1 miles at a 9:57 pace!! I'm thinking speedwork is paying some dividends. It certainly felt great to run that fast with minimal stress.

I feel good!!

Still Adjusting to the Minimalist Shoes

My training pace has been consistently faster these days. I think it's because I've cut back on my mileage to adjust to my new minimalist shoes. I ran a decent 5 miler in the heat this morning. However, I slowed down as it got warmer.

The challenge is not the Nike Frees, it's the new Vibrams. I've run 9 miles in them so far. I've also been wearing them as I go about my daily business from time to time. I can really feel the difference in my calves and feet. I believe that, if I'm patient and maintain my training, I will benefit from these new shoes. 

Tomorrow morning, I'm planning to go to the track and running six 400 meter repeats at 8:30 to 9 minute pace. I'm currently running 5k distance at a 9:20 race pace. I'm going to try to get it down to 9 minute pace be September. I think the speed work will help me set a PR in the Covington Fuzz Run this fall.

Hopefully the Macon Labor Day Road race will afford me the opportunity to break an hour in the 10k thanks to my training this summer.