71.18

71.18 seconds.  The time it took me to run 400m yesterday at UCSC's Alumni Track and Field event.  It's not very fast, but it is actually about 10 seconds faster than I thought I could run...so I'm happy with it.  AND, I feel no foot pain today, which is incredibly exciting. 

Yesterday, Phill and I ran 3 miles around Soquel High School (my old warm up and cool down loop).  Then, we sat around and watched UCSC alumni and current students run events.  I then ran two laps to warm up for the 400 and did a couple of strides.  I noticed I have absolutely no concept of pace or judgement on whether or not I can sustain a certain pace or not.  

The first 200m of my 400 was probably around 33 seconds, which means I was on pace for a 66 second lap...probably until 300m.  That's when it got really, really tough. I'm not surprised by this because - as you readers know - I haven't done ANY speed work.  Last Sunday I did a fartlek, but the fastest pace during that run was probably around 6:45 - 7:00min mile pace.  

I won't be doing much speed for a while, but I am really happy to know that my foot was strong enough to handle it.  Right now, I'll keep doing what I'm doing, as the plan is consistent, slow but steady increase of miles and workouts while continuing to incorporate Yoga and Core. It seems to be working, as I feel stronger, more flexible, and I am generally without foot pain. 

Today, Phill and I will run around 2 miles, do some Yoga, and then we will try the Runner's World "Yoga Fit Challenge".  Phill hasn't done it yet, so I'm curious to know what his thoughts are on the video.  It will be a little goofy, but the last time I did it I definitely felt a little challenged by the end of it. 

Happy Monday, all!