How long will it be till I see signs of improvement in xc?

Question

Right now I can barely run 20 minutes at a medium to somewhat fast pace before I have to slow down greatly to get in my 30-40 minute runs. Will I one day be able to run the whole time? When should I see these results normally?

Answer 1

Words like medium and fast and slow mean little since they are all opinions. Is fast for you 6MPH or 12MPH? If you can get the 5K done in those 20 minutes you are in good shape. You will see as many results as work you put in. If you eat right, sleep well and always remember to warm-up and stretch, you will see and feel improvements immediately. If you love those out, improvements will come slow and be disappointing.

You will be able to finish those full runs, 2 or 3 weeks should be enough as long as you remember to train properly.

Answer 2

You will see signs of improvement fairly soon if you are working hard and following your coach's advice.  Generally, athletes see at least a slight improvement in 2 weeks, if they are looking for it, and a larger one within a month.  Given 3 months, large-scale improvement can be easily seen, without even a thought.

You absolutely will be able to run the 30-40 minute runs at a consistent pace someday soon.  in fact, you'll be able to run it faster than you currently can.  I myself had the same thoughts last year.  i was in fairly good shape for running, but not great.  I wanted to be faster.  I worked all year with the team, and dropped my time down a full minute in the mile, and around 3 minutes in the 5k.  You will see improvement.  I promise.

feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!

~Abab