I just started running as part of my training. I am looking for any tips/tricks on how to get faster. Thanks, Mike

Hey Mike,

I have a few questions for you:

1. What specifically are your running goals? Do you want to compete in running events or are you using running as a supplement to your cycling?

2. Have you been fitted for a good pair of running shoes? I know a great place not far from where we meet for our rides together?

3. Are you getting into running because you trashed all of your bikes???? (Just checking to see if you're paying attention.)

4. If competing, do you have a specific event in mind?

I completed my first run in the morning on Monday after plus or minus ten years off and I have to say I would not recommend hill repeats as a sound first day back plan. I hurt for two days and was unable to complete my desired run on Wednesday evening. My feet hurt, it is cold and I don't want to do it anymore. However I will try again tonight to put in a few miles on the road, and hopefully get back into the swing of it sooner than later. Yes I have good shoes, yes it still hurts, Yes I will trudge on. I will keep you updated on how it is going for me. Oh yah, PLEASE no one ask to run with me, I need to suffer alone with lady Ga Ga in my ears and jack frost nipping at my noise for some time before I am comfortable to run with anyone else.

Dave,

Want to go for a run?

I am starting to run because I am thinking doing the Doylestown DU this year and possibly doing some sprint tri races with a team sponsored by the LBS here in DC. I would like to do more/longer races but don't have time to train

I went to a shop here in DC, was told I pronate and bought shoes based on that. The sales girl was absolutely beautiful and the shoes have been comfortable during the few 5k runs I've done so far for training. My best time for 5k through the city has been 26 min w/ my HR up around 170. I'm comfortable riding with my HR in the 180s and top out around 205.

Also, running might be the only option I have based on my luck with bikes/cars.

I have a couple of tips/thoughts for you, PhillyMike:

1. I can't believe that you went to a running store solely based on the beautiful salesperson. Now that I think about some of our conversations, I guess I CAN believe it....

2. I hope you bought the toughest pair of shoes in the store. Given the abuse you give your bikes, I can see you needing shoes once a month (I guess this isn't a bad thing since you get to visit the beautiful salesperson more often).

3. I don't even want to know what you did to your car...

Seriously, I would suggest you start by building your base with slower paced runs. By slower, I mean that you should be able to recite the alphabet or hold a conversation. Try running a little harder 1-2 times a week so your body doesn't get too used to running slow. See if any running stores in your area has fun runs during the week. Try and hang with the faster folks as a test to your fitness. Do you slower runs by yourself.

Let me know if you want any other tips or if you ever want to run together. Good luck at your race!

Congrats on getting back in the swing of things! Stay away from those hills for now!

So.....how's the runnin going for you two?

Admittedly Slow to non-existent, but thanks for asking. I hope to get back to it sooner than later.

DGG

What's running? I was doing well until the snow. When it warms up we'll head out for a ride or run. Can't wait to get back on the bike.

Which shoes did you end up getting from the beautiful salesperson?

Since we are all sharing running stories......

So we all know it's been snowing and snowing so I tried to get out of my winter slumber, not by doing hill repeats, but by deciding to do a 5K TT on the dreaded treadmill. You know....just to see where I'm at.

2k into the run I realised it was a BAD IDEA to push myself after MONTHS of non existent running. I kept telling myself I was FINE and it was all in my head but no amount of lady ga-ga or Apolo Ohno on tv could distract me from how TERRIBLE I felt.

Story ends tragically with me huffing and puffing VERY LOUDLY for the next 3k with lots of gagging and coughing because I REFUSED to hit the down arrow of the speed button. Pride issues - clearly.

It finally hit home that I was in really BAD SHAPE when immediately after I hit the STOP, a girl AND a guy a few treadmills down decided to casually walk over and say "are you ok? do you need some water?" Could not catch my breath to answer - just nodded.

OMG. SO EMBARRASSING!!! I wanted to die.

But yes...I will try again soon.

Hysterical story.

I got the Mizuno Wave Inspire 5, comfortable so far.

Time to hit the streets.

Just chiming in, do you really abuse your bike? just word of the wise, The inspires are a little lower weight which is due to little less material, just beware that if you are a hard runner (pound the ground harder then other people or above average on weight) that the shoe will wear out quicker than other models, even other mizunos.

I cannot believe you guys do not like running the snow, go out and enjoy what nature has to offer

If you live in the DC area, this running store has a list of local runs and races you can check out. They too can help you with the proper shoe for your running style.

http://www.potomacriverrunning.com/

Say hi to Margie if you see her around.

CW

Thank you. Will definitely need to stop by the store. The Cleveland Park location is closest to my place.

I don't abuse my bikes, but I do ride hard.