Can't seem to build mileage past 40 MPW

RacingtheCantaloupe wrote:

I am a male. 40 miles a week just hammers me. I get sick, injured, and display every symptom of overtraining in the books. I have learned to approach 40 mpw rarely and carefully.

Just as talent is genetically variable, so is durability. I have tried to make peace with that.

Thanks, I appreciate this. It's good to hear an honest reply from the other side of the mileage spectrum. May I ask if you've found success on < 40 mpw?

do run by yourself or have some 'training/running partners who are in the 50-60 range @ about your running speed/level

deixa de recalque wrote:

Also don't own an HRM. Way too poor for that fancy stuff. While I do try to run by feel, I suspect you may be right about not doing enough truly easy runs. I tend to fall into the trap of "all medium runs" when I don't have speedwork in my schedule.

FWIW, you can get a perfectly fine heart rate monitor (Polar brand) for a little over $100.

In my experience, it was THE key to getting over the exact hurdle you are struggling with - how to successfully increase mileage. The heart rate monitor will keep you honest on your easy days, and avoid them becoming medium days. This, in my experience, is the #1 key to getting more mileage in.

Do yourself a favor and go get the book "Heart Monitor Training for the Compleat Idiot" by John L. Parker, Jr. ($3.13, about $7 after shipping. here:

)

Then, get a basic Polar heart rate monitor (new for $69 here:

) Or, go used - I see several better Polar models (RS200 for example) listed for $15-22 on Ebay right now.

Follow the guidelines in the book.

You can't be too poor for $20-30 all-in. If you are, learn how to budget and save, and save up cash. Or, ask for it for your next gift, if you ever get gifts.

Bonus: Use the heart rate monitor to learn how easy "easy" actually is, and then you can sell the heart rate monitor on Ebay and recoup some of your cost.

I'm serious. It is a powerful tool. I can't recommend it highly enough. Some people don't need it. Those people know how to run easy, and don't struggle getting over 40 mpw.