Push self on running track?

Question

How hard should I push myself in running track once a week for marathon training?

In the past, I skipped the track workout portion

of marathon training but this year, I want to try to do better.

Normally, I run a steady pace that is just slow, like an old lady.

This track work gets me out of my element and I

get out of breath.

How hard should I push myself to run faster?

Most of it is at a 10k pace in intervals of faster or slower.

Typically, I just enjoy the running and I don't even look at a timer or watch like others do.

I guess I should start paying attention and trying to go faster?

Answer 1

If you are only running for fun, then there's really no need to get faster or to be concerned with times and distances. On the other hand, if you want to go faster you should push yourself as much as you can and that means it's a good thing to be out of breath after running hard. Of course you only have to push yourself as much as you want to because that's the great part about running: it's all about showing yourself, not others, how fast or how far you can go.

Good luck and remember to have fun.

Answer 2

I've run 7 marathons, 5 on the road and 2 on trails.  I have never trained on a track, running in circles bores the c**p out of me.  Do intervals on the street, sprint to the next light pole, hill repeats, there are lots of things to do for speed.