training routes
Unless I'm doing a set workout on a day where the distance is very important. I base my long aerobic workouts on time and heart-rate. That way I have the freedom to go wherever and not stick to the same route. I often find myself exploring places I've never seen before. It makes the runs/rides go by much faster. But maybe that's just me
Yes, I have several different routes and distances I do. It's best to change things up so your body doesn't get used to just doing the same type of running. i.e. if your route is flat and you race on some hills, they'll end up being a bit of a shock to your legs. At the same time if you just run hilly courses it may not be good for learning how to run with a consistent cadence and HR.
As far as mileage, I usually don't concern myself with mileage as much as the time. Running different terrains can make a big difference in how far you can cover in an hour say. It's better to increase volume by time that's consistent than by miles. I have a good idea of what my splits are, but run days look more like, 90 minute, 60 minute, 30 minute, rather than 10 miles, 6 miles, 3 miles.
Hope that makes sense. Bottom line is you should switch it up - even if just reversing the direction :)
Switching is good! I rarely ever run or bike the exact same route twice, and it can be nice to just pick a direction and turn where you feel like it. I keep track of time as the main factor, but I'm a numbers person and the mileage and average paces help motivate me, so I use a Garmin Forerunner 301 (GPS thing) and it records all the other random stats I could ever want.
Kylie Donia's Miles of Life --- Powered by MarkyV
I've learned that there is only so many routes you can come up with (while staying safe). I try and vary them especially on when running. I've found that using the same general routes really helps gauge your performance. Although, I seem to have better workouts when I find a new course. A planned 40min. run may turn into a 60+. But a route is only new once, they seem to loose the appeal the second time around.
I'm not a big fan of packing up the bike or gear and driving to train. So, for that reason I suppose I'm somewhat restricted. I'm at home this week in Allentown, Pa. which is a nice change. It is refreshing to ride and run on in new (old) area. I find it rather motivating for training to change venues. I need a life style where I can jump from FL. to CA. to AZ. for training sessions! That would keep things interesting.
[FONT=Impact]-Jason
"Fatigue will make cowards of us all!"
thanks for the responses everyone.. makes sense with the minutes instead of miles.. & to train at different spots for different results.. i gotta look into that gps thing too kyillee..
-josh


do you guys and girls switch up your training routes during the week? i have been running the same route since i began my training, and adding distance as i have a progressed, but it is the same basic path.. while it beats running on a treadmill and the biking beats the stationary, i am starting to want to take different ways.. however, i am unsure of terrain and mileage.. what do you all do to change it up a little?
-josh