My times are horrible! What's going on?

Question

This is so frustrating. I have been running cross country and track for about a month and a half, plus last year to so its not like I'm new to running or anything, usually 5 times a week, and I'm hardly showing ANY improvement! I went running today by myself and ran two 400s, four 200s, and 1 800. My first 400 was 1:18, and almost three years ago it was 1:16. My 800 times aren't getting any better either, even though at cross country practice we run long distance 3 or 4 times a week and then do speedwork (200s, 400s and 800s) once or twice a week.

Why am I not improving? I get enough sleep....please help.

Answer 1

Not to sound cliche, but the reason you aren't hitting your marks is because you want to hit your marks.  Track is a tricky animal, because times vary based on a so many conditions.  Improvement has to come to you, don't force it.  Focus on your training, make sure that on your hard workouts you're truly maxing out and your recovery days aren't too laxidaisical.  If you are training correctly, you will improve, it's as simple as that.  The times may not improve until later in the season, but don't get discouraged or too wrapped up in it all because you'll just set yourself back focusing on times too much.  Run the race, then look at the time; don't set a time and go after it during the race.  Until you're a varsity/experienced athlete you will almost always fail at hitting your mark until you get used to your own running style and fitness.  Baby steps!  Good luck!

Answer 2

you just have to push yourself harder.If you want to run a 400 in 1:16 and cant, dont keep trying to hit the mark. First try to get 1:18, then 1:17 and then try for 1:16. Dont move on to the next time until you reach the first. Also think of the conditions you ran your fastest time in. Was it in a race, with other people pushing you or near the end of the season? All of these factors would help you run a faster time and if you dont have them all you might not get the time until you do.