TODD SMITH: This week's Abe's Army training session, which included a 2.3-mile run, was exhausting, to say the least. But I was not defeated. I remain committed to sticking with this and participating in a 10K this summer.
I felt ready for Monday's training at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. I did some stretching and thought I was going to make good time in my group. I had been following the training and putting in the running time between the weekly sessions.
I started out fine, making the first turn around the Grandstand with no problem. Then, I began to feel it. I was breathing heavier. I took little breaks from running to quickly walk several yards.
The fast-walk breaks became more prevalent as we arrived at the other side of the Grandstand, where I took a moment at a water station. It's great to have these as you run.
I really began to labor as we were running toward Sangamon Avenue.
One of the Abe's Army leaders, who run with us at the front and the back of the pack, stayed with me as I really began lagging behind.
I had another burst of energy as we rounded the corner at the entrance to the fairgrounds before slowing to a walk again. I was able to muster one additional run, but that was all I had in me as I headed to the Grandstand. It was the best I could do.
When it was over, I knew the training group for people who could complete a mile in 10 minutes was not for me at this point.
Next week, I'll train with a group for runners who can do a mile in 11½ to 12 minutes.
Despite the rough night, I am going to stick with this. I still think I can improve my speed and endurance. However, all I really want is to complete the 10K Abe's Amble in August and lose some weight.
If I am able to do it at a rate faster than 12 minutes a mile, then that is just icing on the cake.
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EARLIER COLUMNS:
My debut in the Abe's Army training program
Preparing myself for the Abe's Army
