TRAINING

SETTING OUT:

Today, a bunch of folks met up in Great Falls, VA for tough training run on hills. We met Chuck Moeser along with Susannah K. on their turf for some fun on rolling soft trails. I had not run out here before and was amazed at the quality of the terrain as well as the sheer beauty. In terms of scenery and hills, it is much more substantial than Rock Creek or anything in DC. This is not taking anything away from Rock Creek but merely pointing out a fact. Living out in the burbs has its perks, I suppose.

GOALS AND REASONS FOR RUNNING:

Susannah K. is running the Olympic Trials this Spring and is aiming at a 2:37 time. Chuck M. plans on getting the USA record for the 10K for men in the 55-59 age group, Allen, myself, Robert and Pat are just training hard.

TERRAIN AND INTENSITY:

The run today was all rolling hills and we did 11.5 of them. Chuck is a very tough runner and pushed us at 6:20 pace the entire time. He starts fast and ends hard. Not bad for someone in their 50s.

LESSON LEARNED:

I am going to begin a new training cycle that focuses on less quantity and more quality. No more than 60 miles a week but each mile will count. As one gets older, time doing meaningful runs is more important than accumulating miles.

Chuck M. and some of these veterans who have lasted for 30 years are the one's you should be conferring with. Proof is in their longevity and sustained success over the duration.

NOTED OBSERVATION:

I have seen a million and one runners come and go from this area who were real strong for a year or two. All sub 33 minute 10K and 16 minute 5K guys. For every 20 of them, there is one or two who last for more than 4 to 5 years, excluding Wardian, who belongs in his own realm of reality.

LONG TERM GOAL ON A WAY TO BE AND RUN WITH A SMILE:

Running is an art meant to be crafted and mastered. Its more about staying injury free and keeping a healthy and positive mental outlook than simply achieving a fast time or beating others. Running and overall physical fitness supports a more balanced soul and a more balanced soul makes someone a more satisfied athlete.

Also, always run with people and more importantly, people who are supportive and make you laugh.

CONCLUSION:

Off the soapbox