Wednesday Practice

Last night, we had our first Wednesday night track practice.  We met by the picnic table and walked the half mile over to the track.  On the track, we did intervals of 30 seconds fast, then 30 seconds slow for 12 minutes.  Our coach told us to count how many steps we took in one fast 30-second interval, and then increase the number of steps during the next fast interval.  Apparently, increasing foot turnover rate is a way to go faster without exerting as much energy.

The first time, I counted 70 steps.  The next time I counted 85 and it hovered around 80 for the rest of the intervals.  Turns out, counting steps is a good way to distract your brain and body from the fact that you are actually running.

Then, we spent a few minutes performing so-called "dynamic stretches".  In my opinion, they were not dynamic or stretches, but apparently they help us strengthen muscles that are necessary for running but not strengthened enough while simply running.  First, we took 30 steps raising our heels in the back and trying to kick ourselves in the butt.  Then, we took 30 steps with high knees, then 30 steps kicking our legs out straight to the front.  Next, we shuffled sideways, and then we stood on one foot at a time for 30 seconds each.  We walked back to the picnic bench and that was it.  Easier than a 3-mile loop, I suppose, but sort of ridiculous.

Today is another solo run.  I think I'll do Heights Blvd. again, and try to go for 30 minutes.  I feel faster already.