Monday, May 21, 2012

Mama Sweat Mission: Set a 5K Goal

Mama Sweat Reader Ann Waterman, a contributor over at the blog, Slow Mama, emailed me recently:
RE: Running a Faster 5K

Hi Kara!

As I commented on your blog a couple weeks ago, my goal before my next pregnancy is to run a 5K in under 30 minutes. I've been running regularly since I was 18 and I'm embarrassed to say that that I've never broken 30 minutes in a race (well, I did run one race in 29:20, but it was rumored that the course was short). Currently, I only have time for three runs during the week and that involves throwing my shoes on and running as soon as I leave the threshold -- no time to get to the track. I do one long slow run that's at least 45 minutes, and two shorter runs that I push a little harder on.

I've been running injury free for about 12 years. Prior to that, something was always hurting until I got fitted with orthotics. I'd like to remain injury free so am a little scared of speedwork, but feel that may be the only way to speed up.

Any tips on how to cross the finish line in a faster time? I'll be running the Woodstown, NJ Firecracker 5K on July 4th so I've got two months. If you'd like to include my progress as a feature on your blog, I'd be game -- public humiliation is a huge motivator for me.
To be perfectly clear, I have no intention of exposing Ann to public humiliation. In fact, sharing her quest, I’m certain, will rally other readers to give her the support she needs. And I need. My goal, which I might have mentioned in passing, is running a faster 5K, too. And I’d be willing to bet there are others out there who aspire to either finish their first 5K, or better their 5K time. Yup, I’m looking at YOU.

(If you're someone who doesn't know where to begin or it's been a long time, here is my "Return to Running Recipe.")

As I've mentioned here before, signing up for a race seems like the goal, but sometimes it's only the head fake to get you into a regular workout routine. It's all good. End justifies the means. Means justify the end.

For those looking at putting a summer race on the calendar, I’m going to spend each day this week (I know, rare for me to post every day!) on something you can do to meet your goal to either finish your first race or run a certain distance in a goal time.

I know Mama Sweat readers aren’t particularly chatty in the comments, but if you’re one of those looking to set a goal this summer share it with us. Tell us what it is (doesn’t have to be a running race). Sharing your goal with others will make you that more likely to work harder to achieve it. Or, as Ann calls it: Public Humiliation.



8 comments:

Lisa said...

I want to run a 5k pain-free. It's my goal, but I have no idea how to get there (or even if it's possible anymore). I was a "runner" 10 years ago and had exploratory knee surgery when nothing else could point to why my knee hurt when running (was training for a marathon so most likely cause was an overuse injury). No great answers came of that and then marriage, grad school, kids... last summer when the youngest was 3 months old I started running again. Felt great! Until it didn't. After a few 5ks and an 8k I started having knee issues again. Took a break for a few months and a few weeks ago ran only a mile and still had issues. Still have the desire to run, just not sure what to do anymore.

Kara said...

Stay tuned! Tomorrow I have the answer!!

jo said...

I'm signing for my first tri and I am just learning to swim. Yikes. I can't quite swim yet the length of a shallow pool and you will not get me into the deep end at this point. So, yeh, this race could lead to public humiliation or bubbling over pride for doing something I never dreamed possible. Could go either way at this point.... :)

Ann said...

Hi Jo! Congrats on signing up for your first triathlon. Watch out --they're addictive. If you're looking to improve your swimming check out U.S. Masters Swimming at www.usms.org. You should be able to find a local chapter in your area and it's for everyone from for college swimmers to complete newbies. You get access to a coach and swim with people at your ability level. You'll find lots of triathletes there as well. Good luck!

SaraJean said...

I want to just run a 5K (for the first time), never been a runner or jogger even; I'm a walker. Started a couch-to-5k program, it's supposed to take 9 weeks, I'm going to stretch it to 18. There's a 5k in Pepin WI the weekend after Labor Day, part of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Days, that's my goal!

Kara said...

Jo, what Ann said! And GO Sara Jean!

Ann said...

Kara, thanks for helping me out with my quest. Training has been much easier with your support and a little accountability!

SaraJean said...

Not sure anyone will even see this commment .... but I ran my first ever race this weekend! The Buckshot Run (benefitting Special Olympics) in Eau Claire WI on 9/1 .... 2 miles, just under 26 minutes .... for NEVER EVER having run a race in my whole life, have to say, feeling pretty proud! AND I want to do more!