If you can run 1:10/2:30 off of 30-50 mpw, then you can probably run considerably faster than 1:06/2:20 off of 100+ mpw.
But let's say it's 1:05/2:18, fast enough to qualify for the Olympic trials. Would I recommend it? Probably not. It sounds to me as though you have a full life, and no burning desire to see what you're capable of as a runner. That's different from where I was in life at your age, but I also think that it's healthier.
SalukiAlum wrote:
With that sort of training your racing more off talent and obviously dont run beacuse you enjoy running,
Of course I don't enjoy running. Why put myself through all the abuse and constant threat of injury when I can be just as fit hammering out workouts on the eliptical and never worry about injury?
I do love racing though so I try to run as much as I can to get as fast as I can. Sometimes injuries get in the way and even I was surprised I was able to race as well as I did on no training. I never said less is better, I just said less can still be enjoyable.
I'm 46.
what you said is the same spot i was in.....30 years ago....almost the same times, too. i was married with a kid on the way at 29 and knew that i would have to retire when i hit 30. at 29, with similar times to yours, i started 2 a days, averaged 100 miles per week over the last 1/2 of my 29th year and 1st 1/2 of my 30th birthday. I did retire that year after failing to qualify for the trials; but did with prs of 221 and 106 and yes, I have felt better about myself and my career, retiring with those respectable prs, over the past 25 years.
It sounds as though you feel that, in your case, it was a good choice (unless there's more to the story, like a divorce at the age of 30.5 due to your increased running commitment).
I think it depends very much on individual circumstances. In any event, I think it's important to make a thoughtful decision, because there are some serious trade-offs. For me, the combination of my profession and athletic training seemed to be just about all that I could handle; I don't think that I could have added a spouse and children to my responsibilities without shortchanging someone or something.
work 40-50 hours and see you kids everyday.
These have been some thoughtful replies. I actually wasn't expecting that.
I really think you need a reason in the here and now to train at the level required for optimal performance. I wouldn't chase faster times just so that in the future, I could feel better about myself and my career. I already have a few good PRs from college, and it's cold comfort when I run a 5k now and get smoked by D3 kids on thanksgiving break. I feel like the present is what matters the most.
It does nag at me a little to know I'm shortchanging the training, but I hate running alone and meeting up with people is a logistical nightmare (at least where I live).
If I wasn't a hemophiliac, I might pursue boxing, actually. That sport is frickin' awesome. If you guys haven't tried it, you might want to.