Question:

Hi there,
I run up to 65 miles a week. When I started to increase the miles my shorter distance times got slower. For example I am a full minute a mile slower over 8 miles than I was a year ago. Is this because I have inadvertently paced myself for the longer runs or because my training programme is at fault.
Alternatively, is it simply because I am getting past it - I am nearly 58?

Regards
Joan

Answer:

Hi Joan,
Without seeing your training programme it is difficult for me to give an accurate answer. However from what you are saying my first instinct is t osay that because you have increased you mileage perhaps you are running it more slowly than before.
You mileage of 65 per week is quite high and would I be right in saying that it is more or less all done at the same pace? If so you definitely need to introduce some faster sessions into you programme - if you do this then there is no reason why you times should be slower than 12 months ago – I should not worry about age as you are only comparing your times with 12 months ago if you had said 12 years ago then yes your age would be a factor but it isn't in this situation.
The bottom line is you need to take a good look at your programme and you need to introduce faster paced running. You also need to ensure that you have increased you calorie intake to take account of the increase in you mileage.
I hope this helps if you need any more help - just ask

Kind Regards
Peter Hier

Joan's Reply:

Hi Peter,
Thank you very much for your response to my query. Yes you are right I am very 'one paced' in my training, but it feels that my legs won't go any faster as they feel like lead. However, I will try to introduce the speed sessions.
Thank you again

Joan

Joan's Post Script (2 weeks later):

Hi Peter,
THANK YOU VERY MUCH I have just run my fastest 8 miles in over a year. What I believe had been happening was that my head was telling my legs that they couldn't go any faster so my legs slowed down. The head has a lot to answer for when it comes to distance running. On the other hand, I imagine that the head could also be the runners' best friend!
Thanks again for the giant nudge.

Kind Regards
Joan

Peter's Reply:

Hi Joan,

Thank you for your email. I am so glad that you have broken through that "barrier" I am sure that you will now go from strength to strength.

Glad to be of help - anything else please just ask.

Kind Regards

Peter