A little over 20 years ago I ran and raced for about 2 years. Ran a single marathon at 3:45 and had a best 5K of 20:18. So I was never a speedster. Eventually gave up due to injuries and life obligations.
Now I'm 50 years old and want to get back into running/racing - specifically ultras (they get to walk in those races).
So even though I'm not looking to be 'fast', I'd like to be faster than I am. I'm struggling to average a 9:30 pace even on short 2 or 3 mile runs. I'd like to get below 8 minutes a mile on shorter training runs.
I am 5'10" and 181 pounds, so I know dropping at least 10 will be beneficial. I did give whole blood about 4 weeks ago, but I was running slow before that.
I've only been working out consistently for 3 months, so maybe it is just too early. I try to do at least 30 minutes everyday (longer on weekends) whether it be running, walking (at 14:30 to 15:00 pace), kickboxing, stretching, core, and weight training.
My longest run has been 4 miles, longest walk has been 6. No speed work yet (never did it before either which is likely why I was such a mediocre runner 20+ years ago). Just putting in road miles and trying to build a base without injury. I probably need to cut out some cross-training so I can get more time on my feet - last month did 70 miles (about 60% walking with the goal in the coming months to be 70% running). I know some of you crazies do 70 miles a week, so I do realize that my mileage needs to increase drastically - just taking it slowly...
Long story short, I'm in decent shape for an old guy but nowhere near running shape. I'm barely a jogger.
Any recommendations or will this just take time?