Youngster Runner wrote:
I’m almost done with my base training for the xc season. I’ve done about 2 months of just gradually building up easy mileage with aerobic workouts like tempos, fartleks, progresossion runs etc done twice a week, and also lots of running on hills. I have noticed that I feel a lot stronger however my speed, even over distance like the mile, etc seems to have diminished. And yes I do strides after all my easy days. Could this be a normal result of my base training, and should I expect huge gains after the season starts and we start doing more speed based work? I haven’t done any speedowork except I have been slapping 3-4 200s after my tempo and progression runs.
Likely you are fine if you feel a lot stronger. Many people are slower at this part of the year.
You say your mile speed has diminished--what about for say a 10-mile race?
If you are in your best 10-mile shape right now, you're in a great position once workouts start to crush it this season. If you're slower across the board, you might still be fine, but I'd be a little worried since it seems like you've been training hard.
If XC season is still a month plus away, you might want to take a "speed week" next week. Cut your mileage in half, and change the normal workouts to track workouts. Nothing too hard; you're looking for pop in your legs, not gut-busting intervals. Then just jump right back to your normal training the week after. This idea might not be too popular on LRC, but a short change of stimulus won't mess with your preparation.
Either way, I'd bring this up to your coach.