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JustDeDe · 09-03-2008, 06:10 PM

For someone who doesn't give 2 cares about how fast she completes her 1st marathon (in 5 weeks!), how important is speed work during the training process?

I'd never been "a runner" until May of this year when I got all caught up in a Team-in-Training rally and signed up to do a full marathon this fall. I actually signed up for a century ride (100 mi bike ride) as well, so have been trying to train for both. I completed the ride a couple of weeks ago so only have to worry about the run now.

I'm pretty sure I hate long-distance running now, but hate giving up far more, so am staying committed to finishing the bloody marathon. I don't, however, care how long it takes me to get to the finish line. I've been following the schedule outlined by the Smart Coach program on the Runner's World site, but really struggle with the speed work runs. Not only does my body seem to rebel against them, I can't, for the life of me, figure out why they are important if I'm not trying to improve my pace or race time.

I've asked a couple of coaches and all they tell me is "Oh, you need to do those. They're very important." When I ask why, they only repeat themselves or mention improving my pace.

Anyone else have any OTHER ideas?

09-03-2008, 06:10 PM	#1 (permalink)
JustDeDe Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 4	Importance of speed work For someone who doesn't give 2 cares about how fast she completes her 1st marathon (in 5 weeks!), how important is speed work during the training process? I'd never been "a runner" until May of this year when I got all caught up in a Team-in-Training rally and signed up to do a full marathon this fall. I actually signed up for a century ride (100 mi bike ride) as well, so have been trying to train for both. I completed the ride a couple of weeks ago so only have to worry about the run now. I'm pretty sure I hate long-distance running now, but hate giving up far more, so am staying committed to finishing the bloody marathon. I don't, however, care how long it takes me to get to the finish line. I've been following the schedule outlined by the Smart Coach program on the Runner's World site, but really struggle with the speed work runs. Not only does my body seem to rebel against them, I can't, for the life of me, figure out why they are important if I'm not trying to improve my pace or race time. I've asked a couple of coaches and all they tell me is "Oh, you need to do those. They're very important." When I ask why, they only repeat themselves or mention improving my pace. Anyone else have any OTHER ideas?