First speed session of this cycle! Did it on the treadmill, because I just find speed easier that way (I dont have access to a track, otherwise that would be the best option). 1.5% incline. 1 mile easy. 12 x 400 repeats at roughly 5K pace (6:18min/mile or 9.5mph on tready), with 400m recoveries at around 8:30-9 pace. Tough workout (though not as bad as 800s!), but really felt strong. My leg began to lock up at one point but after stretching my hip a little and focusing on allowing my hips to rotate with each turnover, it completely stopped. Reinforces my theory that tightness in the front hip flexor muscles is forcing my glutes to work harder than necessary, which makes them seize up and grab hold of the sciatic nerve, causing the leg lock. It only ever happens when I have been lazy about stretching those muscles.... My other niggles - namely posterior shin splints and some ITB tightness - are gone gone gone.
Im about 12 weeks out from NJ marathon. Im really happy that I took a break from running, as I am reeeeearing to go.
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