Long runs, pregnancies and pace.

Well, the rain held off and the wind was almost non-existant, so we lucked out big time for this morning's 18K run. We had a solid group of eleven runners, three strollers and three kids, although two Moms, one stroller and one little one ran a shorter course (10K), because those Moms are pregnant!

Yes, three of our original six Moms from the last half-marathon clinic are expecting babies in September and October and we are so excited for them and their families. And I'm also really pleased to see these Moms still out running; as long as everyone stays healthy and happy, I expect we'll have some beautiful baby bumps running with us very soon. Can't wait!

Click to see the 18K route.

Click to see the 10K route.

This will be the norm throughout the remainder of this clinic (or as long as our pregnant Moms continue to run with us): while the main group's distance continues to lengthen, we will always offer a 10K route for our expecting Moms. Long runs during the recovery weeks are usually around 10K, so we'll all be able to run the same route, which is nice. 


Which brings me to pace. Christy and I have been noticing a natural division in the group based on pace; there are a few runners who tend to be out in the lead during our long runs and the group can get a bit spread out. This isn't a problem at all, but it can be hard for the people at the back because they may feel as though they are "slowing down the group". This is untrue; if anything, the faster runners are likely causing people to push harder than they normally would or should. 


The solution? Let the group spread out naturally, but strategically place run leaders at the front and back of the group. By doing this, those who feel more comfortable with a faster pace can base their speed on that of the run leader at the front of the group and those who feel more comfortable at a slower pace will also have a run leader on which to base their pace. The key is to make this known at the outset of the run; no one is "pulling" the group forward and no one is "dragging" the group back because as long as you stay within reach of one of the run leaders, you know you're on pace.


And of course, the group up ahead will always turn around periodically to regroup with those behind. :)


Regardless of where people end up in the group, I know everyone is dedicated and working hard. Every week I'm blown away at the effort displayed by this amazing group. Thanks, you guys and see you this week for the workout. Recovery week!