"It's the distance that matters, not the speed..."

[SaCl]

Just finished W8R3, and every time I have listened to the podcasts for this week that line above confuses me - I mean, surely if I am running faster I will cover more distance in the same time? Any one else? Luckily, it's not a problem I have to worry about - but are my mathematical skills just really bad?!

Today was my best 28 minute run yet, I had been feeling a bit blue as my last few runs could be better described as trudges. But this time, while I didn't feel like I flew, it was alright and I didn't finish feeling like I was going to vomit and curl up and cry on the side of the street! It had its moments - good and bad - around the 15 minute mark I passed a girl who was like a gazelle - honey blond, about 5ft9, long legs, glamorous running clothes, striding along - I felt SO envious and aware of how hideous I must be looking in my brown stay-at-home jumper and comedy leggings! But some good times too - I tried the "smiling technique" which at least relaxed the tense rictus that my face generally contorts into, and said hi to some of the runners I passed, which made me feel sociable (and proud that I had the breath for it!). And about ten minutes from the end when I was getting a bit of a glow [read "pouring with sweat"] it started to rain through the sunshine and cooled me down. Ran a little further this time - so feeling a bit more positive about meeting the 30 minute mark. One problem I'm having is that a few minutes before finishing my feet have started to go a bit numb, which is a problem I had in the first few weeks before changing my runners - I've tried lacing my shoes looser, which makes a bit of a change, but think I'll have to try them even looser the next time. Does anyone else have this problem?

I can't believe my next run will be W9R1...

[henrietta Graduate]

Well done on reaching this stage, you are doing so well.

I take it to mean don't go faster if it means you will end up walking, running for longer is more important. Good luck for week 9, I graduate next run

[AliB1 Graduate]

I agree with henrietta...during the programme the key is be able to run for the whole time.

I get a numb foot / feet occassionally and used to get it alot more when I first started....can't seem to put my finger on why it happens but guess it could be a combination of things; running for longer, eaten wrong things, not drunk enough, tired.

[sfb350 Graduate in reply to AliB1]

Yes, I think the programme is largely about learning to pace yourself.

[Tapira Graduate]

I think if you just keep to the time ( and let's face it we all come to this at a different 'level') the speed can come later. I was trying to reach a certain speed - why I'm not sure - and the best thing I did on a friend's advice was to slow down, I have enjoyed my last run big time and that is better for my long term motivation. And I think there is a lot more to it than that.

Well done and keep going!