Finding That Rhythm

Years ago I ran like I lift weights. I'd go out there and run as hard as I could until I couldn't run anymore. That worked to a degree. The problem was I never really felt comfortable while I was running. I'd often be out of breath and my pace would decrease significantly as the run went on.

Once I started to focus on form and pace my running improved by leaps and bounds. When I was really in the swing of things I could get done with a long run, take a few deep breaths and walk into the house and be more or less recovered.

Today's run showed me how much my ability has decreased over the last few months. Not only have I lost the stamina I had, but my rhythm as well. When I started out, I was breathing too heavily and wasn't keeping a steady pace. I spent most of my time trying to find the right pace and right rhythm for breathing.

The bad news is that I had a really tough time doing that. The good news is by the end of the run I had some success. I don't feel nearly as good as I used to after a run, but I'm getting there.

I forgot my GPS again today but I did tack on a little extra distance from Tuesday. I went around Lake Harriet plus down the road to Lake Calhoun and back. That's more than 3.5 but less than 4 miles. My pace was probably slower overall since I was really working on finding a comfortable pace.

I was really worried that I'd get home and my knee would be shot. That little extra I went contains a pretty decent hill. Luckily my knee is feeling pretty good though.

I'm excited to go out again. I'll probably wait until Saturday because I'm still afraid of pushing things too hard, but who knows, I may be able to add even more distance then.