If you ask any runner, their goal is often to run faster or run longer. We think of running in terms of endurance and speed. There is, however, one other valuable physiological component: running economy. Very few set the explicit goal of running more efficiently. However, running economy is essential if you want to run faster or further - or both. Not only will you run faster, but generally speaking, your runs will feel better. Improved running economy makes runs feel smoother and more ...
Running
Weekly Workouts: Cut Back and Acclimate
Last week I took a cutback week in order to acclimate to summer heat and humidity. I had run three weeks of my highest mileage in two years (38, 40, and 40), so I was due for a cutback anyway. Instead of running higher mileage, I forced myself to do shorter runs slightly later in the morning so I could adapt to the heat. One positive aspect of the heat was beautiful blue skies on most of my runs. It is amazing how uplifting and refreshing blue skies can be. Monday: Rest ...
Voices to Listen to on Running and Race
A few weeks ago, many of us ran 2.23 miles in honor of Ahmaud Arbery, a young man murdered at the hands of racists while on a run. Those runs for Maud mattered then; taking a step beyond awareness and into solidarity matters next. When I studied English literature and interdisciplinary humanities in undergraduate, my program pushed us to look beyond texts of the “dead white male” canon. We read Virginia Woolf, Oroonoko, Invisible Man, Edward Said, Persepolis, and similar texts. ...
Weekly Workouts: 40 (Humid) Miles
I ran 40 miles last week! I also ran 40 miles the week prior as well (and skipped posting due to the holiday). This week felt a little harder due to a sharp spike in the heat and humidity. Summer arrived in full force in the Midwest, although the weekend was milder and pleasant. Monday: Rest day Ryan and I took a couple long walks. Indiana is now in Stage 3 of reopening, so we walked Isla and the dogs one mile each way to the new dog park. In the afternoon, we took a long walk ...
Adjusting Your Training for Running in Heat and Humidity
After months of cold weather running, the summer heat and humidity feel like a shock to the system. When you are out running, they literally are. Your cardiovascular system works harder to pump enough blood to the skin to keep you cool. Faster rates of fluid loss can affect muscle function. Overheating can send a signal to your brain to shut down the run. Each year, no matter how many years you have been running, you need to adjust your training for running in heat and humidity as part of the ...