I like running fast more than I like running far

For the first time in two months, I decided to do some interval training this morning.

 

4x1000 at the track and field stadium at TCU.

 

Did a 1-mile warm-up first (Gawd, its boring running in circles). Then, my calves still a little achy from Tuesday morning's run, I took off.

 

First 1,000-meter interval: 4:09 (6:46 min/mile pace).

Second: 4:09 (6:46)

Third 4:08 (6:44)

Fourth 4:04 (6:38)

 

I "rested" 3:30 between each interval, with rest being relative. Between the first two intervals, I was still fresh enough that I felt like jogging (albeit slowly). Between the last two intervals, uh, well, lets say I walked the first minute of the rest period, then finished the rest period with a jog.

 

I felt controlled for each interval, like I could have kept the pace for at least another 400 meters. My heart rate for the entire set of intervals got as high as 92 percent max, and this was near the end of the last two intervals. If I could keep such a pace for an entire 5K, I'd shave a minute off the last 5K I ran in May, when it was 25 degrees cooler outside than it is now.

 

I like running fast more than I like running far. I don't think I'm ready to mark down a sub 21-minute 5K just yet, but hopefully I can get there before the end of the year.

 

Still, my biggest goal remains a sub 4 hour marathon. I'd take that right now.