Maybe slower than the gingerbread man

Last night I went to my first track workout with team TNT. TNT is made up of mostly DFMC teammates and a few other friends. I have been unable to go to the workouts thus far, but have wanted to be a part of the group (it goes along with my team theory from a previous post). I also want to get faster, run harder, and remember why I love running.

I got to the track and was greeted by several familiar faces. Laurie explained the track workout to us while we waited for team captain Matt. As I listened to her all I could think was "What did I just get myself into? I have no idea what she is talking about?".

So here is what we were scheduled to do:

1 mile warm up (4 x 400 or 4 laps around the track)
3 x 400 (3 laps)
1 x 400 (at about 90%, speed trial pace (or something like that))

Based on your place for the last 400, you were matched with your partner for the rest of the run. The first place person matched with the last, etc.

I, of course, was last. I was matched with the first-time marathon qualifier Jeff.

The next plan was as follows:

6 x 400 each person (alternating runners)
1 lap stretch
6 x 400 each person (alternating runners)

The problem was that with the slowest person being placed with the fastest, the slow person would have less time to rest and be running the entire time.

Luckily, there was a solution. Mary-Ann and I teamed up and split up the running duties. This means we got twice the amount of time to rest and ran less. perfect solution.

Overall, I completed about 4-5 miles.

I was very worried about going to the track. I haven't been running very much and I know I am very very slow. So many of these runners are super stars and I wasn't sure what to expect. I've only been running 3-5 miles at most and only once or twice a week.

During my 400s, I listened to my breathing (and wheezing-damn asthma). I focused on my legs and my arms. I listened when a teammate passed me and cheered me on. I ran without a watch, without worrying about my speed, I just ran.

When I finished I felt great (perhaps a runners high?). While I didn't do the complete workout, I did what was right for me. I was happy to be out there. I was happy to be supported by friends. I am starting to remember why I used to love running.

Mr. Gingerbread Man, eat my dust!!!