Run #18: Track Attack

Today was my first track run, and I kept it simple with basic 1-mile intervals.  All that means is I ran a mile a little bit faster, then slowed down for a minute, and repeated that 3 times.  I like to ease into things, and this interval workout was no different: just a little extra push to increase the pace.  (That's why I really need a trainer to get my butt in gear, but whatever.)

Heather (a different one) joined me for the trip out to Jiaotong University, just a 20-minute metro ride from school.  It was an idyllic early spring afternoon: sun shining, breeze blowing, and blue skies beaming.  There was even a nostalgic energetic campus vibe at the track: groups of students meandering along gossiping, two games of pick-up soccer, some old folks walking backwards, and - just to remind us This Is China - a pair of couples playing badminton.

We determined we had different goals so we plugged in the headphones and took off at a leisurely pace.  In the first lap we nearly got run over by a block of army guys trotting along shouting "Yi, er! Yi, er!"  I don't know why they only count to two; maybe because they only have two feet?  Even though Heather and I eventually spread out we each spotted the same old man hitting a tennis ball methodically against a wall and the same over-bundled baby that did a face-plant because his clothes were so puffy he couldn't walk.  I bet they were even split pants but I didn't close enough look.

Like I said, I didn't go all out for this workout, but it definitely felt good to increase the pace and really concentrate on rhythmic breathing and constant core control.  Since this was my first interval workout I've simply set the bar and know what to aim for next time.  I'll just cross my fingers and hope for continued glorious spring weather!

The Fine Print

Date:  2/27/13  Time:  4:30 pm    Location:  Shanghai, PRC

Time: 43:11    Distance:  4.0 mi    Pace (each fast mile): 9:18, 9:24, 9:06

Music: Running mix - wrong song at the wrong time: Live and Let Die