We’ve all heard the mantra: “Run your easy miles easy.” Yet, despite our best intentions, many of us still find ourselves running those supposed-to-be-relaxed runs at a pace that’s anything but leisurely. In this satirical yet informative blog post, we’ll explore the excuses we use to justify this peculiar habit of running our easy miles too hard. Let’s delve into the mind of a runner and expose the mental gymnastics we perform.
Key Takeaways:
- The excuses we use to justify running easy miles too hard are often mental gymnastics and lies we tell ourselves.
- Running slow helps build aerobic base and prevents excessive training load, reducing the risk of injury.
- The fear of being judged on Strava or by fellow runners can push us to run harder than necessary.
- Slowing down your easy runs can lead to significant improvements in your overall running performance.
- Leaving your ego at the door and embracing truly easy miles is a game-changer.
All The Excuses Why You Are Running Easy Miles Too Hard
When it comes to running, most of us are guilty of running easy miles harder than we should. It’s time to unravel the excuses that we all use to justify this seemingly irrational behavior.
“I am the exception”
Ah, the classic ego-driven gem. You’re convinced that the laws of running physics don’t apply to you. While the rest of us are mere mortals, you believe you’re the superhero of the running world. When you inevitably find yourself sore and broken, you may wonder why the running gods have forsaken you.
“I am really running slow”
This excuse is like a remix of the first one. You’ve convinced yourself that your pace is indeed slow, even when it’s faster than a caffeinated cheetah. Denial has never been so speedy.
“I am busy and time-constrained”
Because, obviously, adding a minute to your run will cause the universe to collapse. Yes, for a standard weekday run, a whole minute longer feels like an eternity. But, as it turns out, the world will not end if you prioritize injury prevention over shaving a few seconds off your time.
“Insecurity”
The fear of your fellow Strava-obsessed runners judging you can be a powerful motivator. You may push a little harder to avoid the embarrassment of a “tortoise” label, but it’s time to let go of this unnecessary anxiety.
“Lack of faith in my training”
Running slowly requires a level of trust in the process, and we all know how tempting it is to constantly prove your fitness. Just remember, the real race day is, well, on race day. Not today.
“Running slow is boring, running fast is fun”
Sure, running fast can be a thrilling rollercoaster ride, but avoiding injuries and burnout is more enjoyable in the grand scheme of things. Besides, running slowly isn’t as dull as sitting on the sideline injured or gasping for breath.
“Social Running”
Running with friends can unintentionally trigger your competitive spirit, leading to faster-than-necessary paces. The camaraderie and banter make it challenging to maintain that “easy” pace.
“My music playlist makes me run faster”
Your music playlist transforms you into a human jukebox on the run. Somehow, singing along to those catchy tunes magically accelerates your legs. Before you know it, you’re a sprinting diva, defying the laws of physics.
“The session average will polish the data”
You’d endure a half-hour cooldown with dead legs just to save face and keep your session averages from looking like they were crafted by a drunken kangaroo. Bravo for your dedication to data integrity!
Remember, running easy miles slow is all about building your aerobic base and preventing injury. You may not have the time for a 60-80-mile weekly grind, but slowing down your base miles can save you from the burnout abyss.
Conclusion
Running easy miles too hard is a universal quirk among runners, and we’ve all got our quirks. It’s time to poke fun at our elaborate excuses, prioritize injury prevention, and embrace the true essence of “easy” running. So leave your ego at the door, and enjoy the scenic, leisurely journey of a relaxed run.
Top 5 FAQs About Easy Runs:
Why do runners tend to run their easy miles too hard?
Many runners fall into the trap of running easy miles too hard due to a combination of ego, insecurity, fear of judgment, and a lack of patience.
Is there a genuine benefit to running easy miles at a slower pace?
Yes, running easy miles at a relaxed pace helps build your aerobic base, reduces the risk of injury, and promotes long-term improvements in your running performance.
How can I overcome the fear of being judged on Strava or by fellow runners?
Focus on your own progress and understand that everyone has their own journey. Don’t let the fear of judgment dictate your running pace.
What’s the most significant benefit of embracing truly easy miles?
The most significant benefit is the potential for substantial improvements in your overall running performance, as your body recovers and adapts more effectively.
How can I break the habit of running easy miles too hard?
Start by consciously slowing down on your easy runs and monitoring your pace. Over time, your body will adapt, and you’ll see the benefits of running truly easy miles.