easier?

[jeanne]

I know you said we need to push ourselves but at some point does any of this start to get easier? I kept going today despite pins/needles feeling and discomfort but I keep waiting for it all to sort of sink in and get easier at some point.... It almost felt as if I was much slower than usual today.....

[Eric]

Hi Jeanne,

Yes, it will get easier, or at least you will be able to run longer and/or faster over time. It takes a good three to four consistent weeks to feel as though you are adapting to the training. Be patient, it'll happen. Good for you for pushing through. During times when it feels very challenging, back off the pace a bit and try to relax, focusing on your breathing and on your mid section. A few things:

• if it feels more challenging than previous sessions, like yours did today Jeanne, chances are you still arent recovered yet from the last training session. In this case, change the plan of the session and just go easy, aiming for more quality the next time.
  
• keep in mind that sleep is the time when you recover optimally. If sleep has been restless, inconsistent, or just lack of, then address this by getting to bed earlier, trying not to eat within two to three hours before bed.
  
• pay attention to what you eat/ate leading up to your most recent session and assess how you felt during the session
  
  • it's the beginning of allergy season and if you have allergies, you will feel more fatigue during your sessions. Try using nasonex or pantanase since they are nose sprays that won't cause drowsiness.
    
  • drink plenty of water throughout the day.
    
  
  Hang in there!
  
  Cheers,
  
  EH