Was I pushing too hard?

Question

I'm currently training for XC. My easy runs are normally 10-9 min. pace. One day last week, I decided to do 8:00 min mile pace for one of my runs. I felt good, so I did it for 3 days, and then last Saturday, I went at a 10:57 pace because it was the 2nd to last day of my period, and I'm always slower then. Sundays are my off days. Monday, I did a 10 min. pace. Tues, I did 8:00 and Thursday and Friday I did 8:30. I noticed that my shin splints were starting to come back, that my knees felt funny when I was running, and I was more tired than usual. Today I ran at a 10:00 pace and it felt good, although I did speed up as I progressed. I've been icing, but was I forcing myself to go faster too soon? My mileage last week was 16.4 and this week was 19.4.

Answer 1

Don't think your over doing it, maybe just a tiny bit.  Usually only increase your mileage by 10% each week.....you were just a little over that.  Main thing I suggest is don't know your current "mile pace" but say you could do a 7:30.  Don't run two days consecutive at 8 min. mile pace........do a day then take at least one day if not two of easier 9:30 to 10 min. pace.  Shin splints aren't fun.......do some calf raises exercise to get them strengthened and do over do it to much to soon......hope this helps!

Answer 2

i think u could push yourself even harder cuz thats what it takes to be great.

Answer 3

That might have been a little too much. Instead of adjusting your time by a minute (9 minutes to 8 minutes) try just ten seconds per week. If you feel that this is still too much just try five. Another way to get faster is while running do your regular pace and do a couple accelerations. (Sprinting for short periods of time.)

Answer 4

i dont think its too much...but it depends on your body...i am an experienced runner who runs 500 miles every summer and shin splints and other aches and pains always happen...its just a part of running...youll be fine...keep pushing!