Speed intervals

[Roxdog]

Three years ago, when I first graduated, my runner friend encouraged me to do speed intervals. I hated them, but they made a big difference.I went to a yoga class last night, after having neglected yoga for ages. I don't love organised classes, but knew it would be good for me as I generally feel a bit stiff. Two afternoons shovelling compost on my allotment had left me a bit achy.

Well, the yoga worked wonders! My new running jacket had arrived and as it was raining, on it went and I convinced myself I looked very stylish 😂 if I ignored the sleep crumpled hair! Anyway, I felt good so off I went.

I think the unplanned longer run a few days ago plus the yoga had worked their magic and I was running strong. I think the yoga had made my upper body feel lighter and seen off some stiffness in my hips.

As this was only going to be a 30 minute run, I decided to do some 'speed' intervals. Well, the 'speed' sections were not fast, just not as slow as my normal pace!

Determined not to track so that I could become discouraged, I felt like I was flying along! I wasn't, but ho hum!

That's set me up for the day. The mixture of yoga for strength, running for cardio snd all the other wonderful benefits, plus what is essentially weightlifting on my allotment feels like the perfect balance.

I just hope I stay injury free! Time to mix things up a bit.

[Instructor57 Graduate10]

Sounds like you have found (or re found) the right combination for you !Hope it continues for you 🤞

[Roxdog Graduate10 in reply to Instructor57]

Thanks, hope you feel better soon

[Instructor57 Graduate10 in reply to Roxdog]

Thanks, I think I'm getting there slowly, just finished the antibiotics today so 🤞

[Roxdog Graduate10 in reply to Instructor57]

I do hope so! Maybe a slow run in the fresh air will be good for you soon

[Instructor57 Graduate10 in reply to Roxdog]

Exactly what I'm thinking and hoping 😊

[Birdlady64 Graduate10 in reply to Instructor57]

Nice to hear you're thinking of a run soon Ian! Things sound like they're heading in the right direction

[Instructor57 Graduate10 in reply to Birdlady64]

I'm certainly hoping so Diane 🤞

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate10 in reply to Instructor57]

Fingers crossed here for the antibiotics. Really hoping it’s not much longer-glad you’re going in the right direction xx

[Instructor57 Graduate10 in reply to MissUnderstanding]

Thanks, I hope so 🤞

[Oldlady64 Graduate10]

What a great, inspiring post! I like the ‘mixing it up a bit’, I’ll give that a try.

I’ve just been looking at yoga and starting on that too. I’m off for a longer run later today…. Let’s hope it goes well.

[Roxdog Graduate10 in reply to Oldlady64]

Good luck!

[Birdlady64 Graduate10]

Yes! Sounds like the perfect mix, and a good run and the Yoga worked wonders for you. I used to be scared of those speed runs, but now I quite enjoy them and they definitely make a difference. I'm thinking of taking the plunge and doing a Pilates class - hopefully it will help my back

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate10]

Fantastic! It’s so wonderful when you suddenly feel fit and full of energy. I get you’ve still got a grin! Your strength, flex yoga and run combo sounds epic.

I got quite into speed runs when I did on the half marathon plan on Nike app. So much fun. I wasn’t properly ready before that. I’m giving my knee a little more time doing easy runs and then I’ll be giving it my best effort along the lanes. The local sheep find it quite disturbing! I’m missing it.

Wishing you many more happy speedy runs! The best for endorphins at the end. 🏃‍♀️💪🏃‍♀️

[Roxdog Graduate10 in reply to MissUnderstanding]

I'm not sure my speed was that speedy, but it felt good. It's sensible to take care of your knee. I got injured ages ago doing bouts of 1k speed runs at the end of my runs, so the speed intervals are short now!

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate10 in reply to Roxdog]

I don’t think the actual numbers matter at all-just that feeling of freedom!

[Frenc Graduate10 60minGraduate]

That sounds as though you have it all figured out and were rewarded with a lovely run! Well done Roxdog 😊😊😊.

[SueAppleRun Graduate10 60minGraduate]

Speed intervals can be fun and don't last long 😃sounds like you've got the balance just right

[Dendev75 Graduate10]

This sounds like your mix of exercises is working well for your running. ☺️ I try to do a yoga post run session as I find it really helps my muscles recover. I started weightlifting with dumbells and I’m not sure if they help with my running at all but I like feeling stronger in my body.

[Teresa1632 Graduate10]

Well done! Now try hill repeats 😊 Mixing it up will do you good, and takes the boredom out of it. Just remember to stretch afterwards too. Heres to great things in 2023

[Roxdog Graduate10 in reply to Teresa1632]

Yes, I added in a couple of hill repeats too! I have a very lengthy stretch routine which I do. 3 years of running plus a few injuries have taught me I need to stretch more than I used to!