Slow Down (Read 1910 times)

We all run for different reasons. The single most important factor for success in running is to be able to identify the reasons why you run and reflect on what it will take to get you there. The information is out there, but the system you choose must mesh with your own temperament and personality. If it ain't enjoyable, you won't stick with it, and that would be the worst shame of all.

Amen.

I personally like feeling the 'pump' from my runs, so I just run up the longest hills I can find, gently trotting back down wrapped up in a nice big jacket afterwards. Putting a similar effort level on flat road courses has injured me multiple times. Remember, it's not just muscle and cardiovascular development, but tendons, cartilage and bone that must be developed. I think the balance of the evidence shows that it's only a slowly-build up of miles that can do that. Unfortunately weight training won't help much for lower leg bones :[

I wondered what happened to Lance Armstrong after NYC. Maybe I'm the only one who missed this... http://www.thefinalsprint.com/2007/01/a-classic-case-of-too-much-too-soon/ Even world class athletes can do too much too soon.

Great article. Thanks for positing it.