ZeroGrav – April 2018 – Slower is Better?.? (When Running, Amongst Other Things)

So right there was an interesting new perspective for both of us, my initial thoughts on running are go faster, while P’s perspective is go longer.  To analyze that a bit..:  A few years ago I could make 7.5 minute miles, not actually considered ‘fast’ compared to real athletes, however quicker than an average runner which probably clocks in at about 8.5 minutes/mile.  And nowadays I am more like a 10 minute mile runner, after my never-to-be-mentioned again injury a year or two ago, hehe.  (Further context:  I ran the same 5k last year, 11 months post-op and had a 9.5 minute pace, however it was TOUGH for me to finish).  And back to P, he is trying to build up for a 50k race later this year.  (Wait, whaaaaaaaaaaaaaat, 50k?!).  Yes, 50k which translates to ~31 miles, he has done it before, which is simply amazing.  P mentioned he will run at a 12.5 minute pace, when considering the length of the race and the amount of hills, it is extremely impressive to me.

Running for speed might involve interval training over several weeks (i.e. All out sprints followed by intermittent slow jogs), while running for distance likely involves a gradual build over several months (5 miles one weekend, 8 the next, 11 the next… etc).

The way P described his run is that while strenuous, there is ample opportunity to enjoy the race – Soak in the scenery, enjoy being outdoors in the sun, talk with the other runners, really just enjoy the run for what it is.  In contrast, when I think about entering a race, there’s a competition mindset, it’s about pushing yourself hard, getting to the finish line, getting a new personal best time.

Now I am not that all-out competitive type, I have always enjoyed the simple things that come with jogging – Being outdoors, fresh air, checking out different architecture and landscapes while running through the local neighborhoods, being in the flow, etc – However P helped to remind me of that mindset, and I do appreciate it.  It just got me to thinking of how so many things are fast these days, and it’s good to slow down and just be.  (Also, P doesn’t use social media, which I think is awesome).

Random examples of when slower is better than faster:

• When lifting weights, a slow rep is much more effective than a fast rep.
• When making large or expensive purchases, it is better to give it a few days prior to making a final decision.
• When considering a new job offer.

Random examples of when faster is better than slower:

• When being chased by a wolf or other predator animal.
• When pushing quantity over quality.
• When wanting to need to fix whatever you are about to mess up by rushing.

Totally kidding and weak attempt at sarcastic examples.

I do and always have thought there is a time for speed, as well as a time for slowing down.  Both in balance.  Carry yourself slowly, deliberately, methodically, and respond at your own pace, yet have the ability to turn on overdrive at a moment’s notice.  A little bit of Tai Chi to be in harmony, a little bit of Fast & Furious when you need it.  Both speeds require a measure of self-control and presence of mind which can only come through discipline.

Not entirely sure this article communicated what I intended, however I enjoyed writing it, and I hope some of you enjoyed reading it.

As far as running goals, I’m thinking maybe sub-25 minutes for the 5k however with the qualifier that I will need to finish feeling OK and not exhausted, as well as a separate long-distance run (dare I say half marathon??) later this year, which P got me thinking about it.  We will see, I really need to give it some more thought.  I am going to take my time with setting these goals.  🙂