The journey begins.... by sidharthv

Sixteen days since my first marathon (Los Angeles 2008) and I am ready to start running again. My next goal is going to be running a marathon under 4 hours. I think I can do much better. But even under four hours is a sturdy goal. All my post-marathon pains have succumbed and my feet are ready to go.

New Shoes - Went to JackRabbit in NYC (14th street n 6th ave) to try out proper running shoes. They video your running and recommend a shoe that fits your style of running. Some people pronate or supinate and need a shoe that corrects this arrangement. Apparently, I have a perfect stance. So they recommended I get a shoe with more padding and more comfort. Asics is the brand. And what comfort! It  has more padding and provides more comfort than anything else. In addition, the shoe has more gel and helps in absorbing shocks, provides more stability and comfort.

Today's running strategy - start out slow at 10 minute miles (6.3) and increase speed every 5 minutes (0.1). Meet nine minute mile target by the 5th mile. I think its necessary that I meet that mark either at the 5th or the 6th mile and then maintain the speed all throughout the race.

Observation - I really feel that if I dont push my legs in the beginning and keep varying my pace, my legs seems to fall into this comfort zone and its really hard to get them to go faster!