"conversational pace" (Read 1346 times)

I keep seeing mentions of "conversational pace": a slow pace in which you can hold a conversation easily. My long runs right now are 4+ miles, but I am already breathing heavily after a half mile. I don't feel like I have a conversational pace except walking!

Lance: I can attest to the fact that it is possible to "run" at over a 20 minute mile pace! I have had to do that sometimes when I'm on hilly trails. And on level surfaces my "conversational" pace doesn't usually get above 17 1/2 minute miles. If the pace you're at right now isn't working for you, try slowing down. You might be surprised how much more fun it is to run when you're not gasping for breath! Zoom-zoom: Then again, I don't have asthma, so maybe it's different. But from what I've read on other forums, people with asthma can exercise without gasping too. Some use their inhalers _before_ runs. Some have found that consistant lower-intensity exercise helps some with their asthma. Why not check with your doc and see what they say about your running and your asthma? (I know, I know - my answer seems to always be "check with the doc!")

Ha, I do have an inhaler, but I am bad about using it...mostly because my asthma is so mild and doesn't bother me real often. And I can definitely tell that running HAS improved my lung capacity/function. But you are right that I should have a chat with my PCP. And it's not so much that I'm gasping as I'm just not really comfortable for intense discussion...I can talk a bit, though not long sentences. Does that make much sense..? :P k

Yeah, I know what you mean. I'm about there when my HR is 160-175.

Hi, waddleonbeth, and welcome! I'm guessing from your name you're a fan of the Penguin? I've enjoyed his stuff. I used to run/walk with a group here in Raleigh, and I found that the walk breaks let me keep an overall faster pace than I could with straight running. It felt really strange when I realized my overall time was less when I WALKED! ::shrug:: Janell