at practice last night we had a little race and ran the 5mi loop of central park. we approached the "race" in thirds using the 3 p's... patience, pacing, and pride. the 3 p's is a type of progression run and the idea behind it is simple - start slower, finish faster.

because everyone runs at a different pace we had to do our own calculations on how to conquer each third, but it was simple math and i figured it out (without a calculator thankyouverymuch.) here's the breakdown...

i wanted to run a 9 minute mile for 5 miles. so,
9 x 5 = 45, the number of minutes it should take me to finish the loop
45/3 = 15 minutes per third of my run

easy peasy right? now how to run it...

the 1st third, patience.
start off slow, run conservatinvely and hold back a little.

2nd third, pacing.
pick up the pace. run strong and comfortably. know youre working but remain in control of everything, especially your breathing.

final third, pride.
time to show off. at this point you should be able to run your fastest and really push yourself. i like to play a little fishing game. i find something (a horse and carraige, someone wearing a bright color, traffic light, etc.) in the distance and go after it.

using the 3 p's i PR'ed (made a personal record) last night for the 5mi loop and felt the best i ever have after finishing it.

sunday is the queen's half marathon where ill be putting my 3 p's to the ultimate test, a timed race!