Speed

Why do we do speed work? So we can get faster. It is that simple.

When I started running I didn't do speed work. I felt like it was a major accomplishment for me to get my rear out that door and come home without stopping! But then once I started to get into better shape I wanted to become faster. So that is when I started reading up on what makes a fast runner fast. I came to learn that there are several different things we can control and several things we can't. If you want more detailed information about what makes a person fast click here.

I have decided that although all of that information is very helpful and interesting what it boils down to is an individuals desire to get faster. If a person is truly dedicated to becoming a faster runner then they will become one. Depending on all kinds of different factors doing speed work does make you faster. For some it can shave minutes and for others seconds, but regardless you are faster.

Something that I find comforting about running is that someone will always be faster then you. That may sound backwards, but really it helps. You can throw your ego out the door and really focus on what will make you better as an individual and grow from there. (One of my running coaches told us that). Doing speed work allows you to slowly set small goals for yourself. Small goals you can reach and be proud of! That is right, you did it.

So I challenge all that if they want to become faster, feel stronger and get in even better shape to incorporate speed into their weekly running workouts. Every run should have a purpose and there is always room for growth. Examples of speed workouts that you can incorporate can be found at Runners World. You can also go to the book store and there are several books on speed that can help you find a plan that will work for you.

My friend Adrienne found this video and posted it on our Ragnar blog last year. Whenever I am feeling like I need a pick me up I watch this video and it inspires me to go out and give it more and become better. Keep it up People. It is worth it.

GOOD MORNING RUNNERS!!

So this is our first post on our training blog. We are three sisters all with some competitive spirit and love of exercise! There are three of us, Jennifer, Heather and Sarah.

Above is Heather and Sarah chillin up in the Big Horn Mountains =)

I (Jen) am the one with stripes on.... thats right, stripes. I am not sure why I bought that shirt either. Anyways, the two dudes in the pic are our dad and our oldest brother James. We have another brother Chad who we love as well, but he was too busy in being in Hollywood and the time =) LOVE YA FAM!!

This is just another cute picture of Sarah.....=) (Of course this was taken after we had finished the Wasatchback Ragnar Relay back in June)

So yep, I am the oldest Jen. I am up at 4:15 (that is when my alarm went off) to get some food into my body and then back to bed until about 5 when I will wake up take a small drive to plant some water and then head out for a 16 mile run today. Nothing like training for a marathon when it is hot outside. Although I am still up in the air on whether it is better to have long runs in the blazing heat or the freezing cold. Too bad you can't just schedule your long runs only on the nice cool spring or fall days =)

Also, a big shout out to Heather my sister who is doing her first 10 mile race today!! She rocks and we know it. I can't wait to hear about it.

Well would you look at the time. I got distracted with blogging and now only have like 15 mins to get some sleep. Later =)