Hello everyone.
I realize I am completely out of place here. I'm a SLOW, middle aged woman of 48, who is returning to running (jogging, to you all!) after a few years off. To be clear, I only started running in 2009. I ran local 5K, 10K's, a few half marathon and one very slow marathon, just to say I could finish the thing. I did.
Here is the question. I have been running every other day since around June and went from zero running to running up to 10 miles fairly comfortably. Slow and steady. I started at 11:30 minute/miles at that time. Now, I run between a 9 min/mile (on an extremely speedy day for shorter distances) and closer to 9:30-9:45 min/mile (on longer runs). I'm 5'5' and 128#. I'm really at a loss as to what to do with training. I just plan to run local/area fun runs and races (5K to Halfs, no more marathons for me!) and want to improve my fitness. Is it unreasonable to strive for an 8 minute/mile pace? How would I train to do this? And, if you feel it is possible, what kind of timeline would it take to get to that point? I have searched high and low online, but, can't find anything that is specific to help me reach my goal. How do I know what is possible and realistic? I have never really tried to run that fast, because I always thought it was impossible. But, I tried intervals for the first time, and was able to hold the 8 min/mile pace for the intervals...and it made me wonder if I could learn to sustain a faster pace?
I decided to write here, because I wanted to ask folks that really know how to train and run. I believe you will give me accurate advice.
Just looking for a little help! Don't be mean! I apologize if this is the wrong place to ask! I also apologize if I didn't give you the information you need to help me reach my goal of getting faster. Thanks!
Signed,
Just a nice Mom