Week three of my training has gone very well. On Monday, I covered 8 miles at an easy pace. Tuesday's 3 miler was an easy recovery run from Monday's long run. Wednesday, I increased the pace slightly and took a break after each mile allowing my heart rate to recover before continuing.
Today's 3 mile run was continuous with no breaks. It went very well because I incorporated some easy running every seven minutes and included thirty second walk breaks every two minutes. Tomorrow's four miler will be one minute at 12 minute pace followed by a thirty second walk break.
Losing Weight
I have included a weight loss program in my training, since I will need to lose some weight to gain speed and reduce stress on my joints. I'm using the calorie counter on my Fit Bit and logging all of the food that I eat. I try to maintain a 1,000 calorie deficit. My goal is to get my weight down to 160 pounds (That's a good weight for my height.)
I don't plan to lose weight rapidly. Plus, if my deficit is less than 1,000 calories I don't beat myself up.
Ultimate Running Goals
At the moment, I'm building a base and trying to increase my average pace to at least a 12 minute mile (hopefully faster).Once my base is built, and as I lose weight, I plan to incorporate speed work and a 10-13 mile run into my weekly regimen.
October should be a solid 100 plus mile month and my weight should continue to settle steadily toward my goal.
It takes thoughtful effort to become a successful runner and a willingness to take that first step every day.
