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Sprint Week Woes


This week's Nike Run Club trainer only set two runs for me. But guess what....they were both sprints. I'm pretty sure I've already mentioned it. BUT. I am NOT a sprinter.

The first run was called a Tempo Run. I kept asking myself. What is a tempo run? Since Oliver has been working this same plan (though individualized to his speed, his desired miles per week, and his race date, I asked him about the run. Essentially, I was supposed to run a 'Quick' one mile. I'm still not sure what that means but here's what I learned:

  • Even simple terms can mean different things to different people. Instead of assuming that we know what we are communicating to others, it's important that you clarify yourself. 
  • A warm-up is an important step in your overall success. Sometimes we operate in a microwave world and want to get things done immediately. The reality is that there is preparation process that guides us on our journey to meet our purpose. 
  • Don't over-complicate your process. No matter what, just get jump in and get it done. There's a purpose for the things you are don't. When you think too much about the process, you may very well miss the lesson.
Once I completed my one-mile Tempo Run, I still had some energy. I guess that means my mile wasn't quick enough. Oh well. I didn't waste the energy. Instead, I ran another mile and a half. He was working on 800m intervals. I didn't do intervals but I stay the course with him. Sometimes, a friendly face it all it takes to get the job done.

The second run for the week was 5x400m. When I clicked on the run, it read 'Hard' pace. Here we go again. I thought 'Quick' was supposed to be fast. I guess 'Hard' means that I shouldn't be able to breathe afterwards. Well...if that's what it meant, then I think I succeeded. Luckily for me, I had my middle school runner with me on the track so I finished each of the 400m runs. And trust, I took my allotted two minute break between each one. Here's how the run went:
  • She was ahead of me on each and every one of them. Good thing my ego is not too big. Always remain humble.
  • Each 400m felt easier than the last. Getting started can be hard but staying the course has benefits.
  • We had negative splits. With each 400m being faster than the last, I left with a feeling of success.

The best part of the day was hearing her say that she wants to complete at the next Cross County meet. You see, this is key because it's a reminder that you have power to inspire others as they inspire you. But for it to work, you can not operate in fear. Just do it! Whatever it is!

Of course, this non-sprinter couldn't end her week without a long run. 

So, I took out teenager and together we got in over 10 miles. Me 6.0 to her 4.4. We did that!



I'm doing anything that will get me across the finish line at the Zooma Florida race. What will you do to encourage yourself this week? 

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