Running training pace?

Question

i am a runner for my high school. my training plan is suppose to be 8 minute miles for my easy runs. i run outside and when i run i don't know if i am doing 8 minute miles. A run i did last week the first mile was 7:15 but then my next mile was 8:10. how do i know what pace i am running while i am running. i don't want to buy a garmin watch because i already have a watch. so do not reccomend that.

Answer 1

You will have to time yourself somehow.  Stopwatches can be purchased for less than $20.  Wristwatches with stopwatch functions can be purchased for $40 to $60.

You really need a watch so that you can feel the difference between training at 8 m/m and 7m/m.

You would also be wise to do speed training that is timed.  Running a set of three to five quarter miles at about 90 seconds each (which is 6m/m) is a good workout to improve speed.

Answer 2

I hate running with a watch.  I feel that you basically become a slave towards time, it's a big mental thing for me.  My advice is usually "run how you feel" for the beginning portion of your summer training.  Just run 6 days a week at how you feel for about two-three training weeks.  After that, I would say you will be fine doing 8 but I think 7:30 is more beneficial to a summer training program.  

Now, how do you now if you are at 8 minute pace?  If its 5 miles, take the first mile as a warmup.  Go slower than usual and check your watch, if it says "8:15" you now know to speed up a bit.  Don't go out faster than your goal pace for easy distance.  Go slower for your first mile than you can find out what your pace is.