Life as the back of the pack-er…
So had running class last night. For the last few months, there has been a lot more people attending and of varying ability, and while I was near the back, I was never last. So was quite enjoying that change. But it seems we are back to the “core” group of people, now that the Christchurch marathons over, which put me once again at the back. But a strange thing occurred…
We did steps first, and as always I was left behind, but hey thats OK, I only had to do 3 sets everyone else did 4. Then we went on to do the hill intervals. Now there were 4 girls, and I didn’t get left behind any of them. So this is my delima, why can I run strongly and comfortably up a hill, but fail miserably on the steps. Initial thoughts was that my “weight” was the issue. But surely that would effect me as much on the hill as the steps. Muscle strength and endurance is another one, not so much vertical lift is required, its still required when running the hill.
I think I shall have to research this further… last night I did sit down on the couch (I was knackered) and look across at book case, and contemplate opening up Noakes “Lore of Running”, but thought I’d do that another day.
So the plan today is to have 60min “Aerobic Extensive” (long Easy) run at lunch time today. The plan with Wednesday is that it will be my 2nd long run for the week (first being on the weekend). Just going to do Hagley park today, but in future plan to do the hills. Only 60min at the moment, but over next couple of months build it up to a couple of hours.
oh how i miss those nights being at the back!
Steps are there for a reason – because the terrain is too damn steep for a track or path!! Think back to Dudleys Knob – did you run or power walk that? If Dudleys Knob was in town, there would be steps going up it because it’s hard to run! So cut yourself some slack – you can probably run easier up hills, because the hills are runnable!
Hmmm, sorry, missed the bit about you getting left behind on the steps, but not on the hill intervals, so my comment counts for nothing!
Wouldn’t it have something to do with how strong your knee lift and arm propulsion is? I’ve never been very good at lifting my knees when I run, but when I go up hills, I practise it – almost like I’m running on the spot as I go up (and really push off using your calf muscles). Whereas perhaps you have a more efficient shuffle (if I can call it that) when running up hills?? Steps are hard, but I do think it comes down to more explosive power – maybe you could practise high leg lift/skipping type drills up the hills, that sort of thing. Karen should be able to give you some pointers. But don’t worry, there are no steps on the Kepler!
If anyone knows the answer to this I’d be interested too, i can run hills albeit slowly but steps kill me, almost immediately brings on my asthma! I’m planning on conquering steps once my 1/2 marathon is behind me. After watching the type of terain that they run in the Crazyman I reckon running steps would be invaluable if I ever realistically want to do that. But it will be starting at a walk.
I think Rachel right, its probably about explosive power. My style when running up hill has improved greatly since going to running class, so not shuffling or anything. Still going to look into it further…
We talked about it tonight, and Graham said steps require a completely different type of running action (more of a vertical action/leg lift). Added to that, the spacers on the steps can be different sizes, so you may be required to stride further than you are used to, or closer, which throws your pace out. I guess it’s the old story – you just need to spend time actually doing it (but whether it’s actually worth it is an entirely different matter!).