In my last podcast (Running 101) I stated that you should not pay attention to distance when running, but you should pay attention to time. This morning’s run was a very good example of this rule.
My schedule defined today’s run as a 50 minute tempo run. So how far is 50 minutes? Well that will be different for all runners. For Deana Kastor this run may end up being a 10 mile run, for a beginner runner running at a 13 minute pace it would end up at a little bit less than 4 miles.
No reputable running schedule will have a beginner running a 50 minute tempo, but clearly 50 minutes will equate to different distances depending on the current fitness level of the runner. Keep this in mind the next time you see that incredible new workout in the latest running mag. Most running programs list mileage not time and almost all should be adjusted for your current running capabilities.
