21st Century Mom’s post today continued the meme that is circulating throughout the blogs of the Running Blog Family. I just happened to be sitting on the floor, by my bookcase, when I came upon her post. After days of avoiding being tagged, I decided to voluntarily play along.
The nearest book, Daniel’s Running Formula: Proven programs 800m to marathon (2nd edition), is not necessarily a book that I have read cover to cover. In fact, I have to admit that I haven’t read very much of this book at all. Like Lore of Running, the book sitting beside it on the bookshelf, I have the book on hand for a reference should the need arise. I have a several of these type books on hand, in case I don’t like what I read on a topic and am in need of a 2nd, or 3rd opinion.
From Daniel’s Running Formula, (pages 123, sentances 6, 7, 8) reads:
“Although the duration of workbouts is important, when it comes to interval training, intensity (training pace) is even more important. This is because you can attain the difference V02 max only when running at a particular intensity. You need to understand the difference between intensity and speed of running – intensity is the key word when stressing any physiological system…Under adverse conditions, intensity is clearly the better way to identify what pace elicits V02 max – be sure to consider this when doing your interval training.”
Simply put, it isn’t the pace that you run, the effort that you are exerting is more important. If you are running up a steep hill, or against a strong headwind, you will not need to run at hyperspeed before you hit your limit. The conditions of the hill or wind provide the natural increase in intensity.
At least that is what I think Daniels means. When it comes to interval training, I am such a beginner. I have my usual workouts that I do: Yasso 800m repeats, mile repeats, and ladder interval progression (up and down). I read other bloggers workouts and think “huh?”
Like anything, I just need to understand the concept, then I can put it into action. I have a dream you know – Boston Qualification this year. “Action” is one thing that will be needed to achieve my dream.
Am I ready for the intensity that will be needed to make my dream a reality? It appears that my foot is recovering. My body has it’s voice, however, and my limitations are being expressed. My metatarsals are sensitive to the pounding from running day after day. Since they told me to rest today, I am doing just that. No running today, just reading.
I will be moving in the direction of my goal. I am just going to invest a little more time than I have on previous marathons. I have a feeling that I will being opening these books a little more often in order to better understand how to get to my goal safely. I will be tapping into as many of the resources available to me as I can. These resources may be within my immediate reach (my bookshelf), or one of the “virtual” resources that are accessable via the fantastic technology that we have available to us from the internet.
Glad to hear that intensity counts because this morning’s run was all about bucking head winds and going up hill. I feel better about it already!
We should never stop learning. Even if it means going back and relearning stuff we have neglected or forgotten. Your recovery is so important. Keep doing the right things, and your goals will be achieved.
I know when I set a goal ,I start reading everything that I possibly can. It helps prepare for the challenge mentally as well as physically.
I’m late with this comment (regarding your last post). It seems like just last week that you were injured and now you are running 13 milers that quickly! Nice job. You’re going to do great in your upcoming 1/2 marathon.