Why aren't my running times getting better?

Question

Im 14 years old turning 15 in October. I decided to start running cross country but I'm going to be a sophomore so most of the kids I know are already in shape/good enough. I have been going to captain's practices for about a month now where we run from 1.5 - 3 miles. Since the beginning of the summer I haven't seen a difference in my running times. My mile time is around 9 or 10 and that's when I'm trying. (Not killing myself but trying pretty hard) Since I have noticed this, I have gotten motivated to do more. So for the past 3 days I have been using the elliptical. I wake up, and run on it for 20 minutes, then about an hour later I do the same thing. I burn about 300 calories each time so it is somewhat of a hard workout. I'm also limiting myself to 1700 calories per day so I can lose some weight. I'm a little less than 165 pounds and I'm hoping that by losing weight, I'll be able to run faster. Is there anything I can do more or maybe even less to improve my times? I have about another month before the season really starts so I have a pretty good amount of time to improve. Sorry this is so long and thanks in advance. Im a male, 5 foot 7, 165 pounds and I only have a small gut, I don't look overweight though.

Answer 1

I would continue to eat healthy, but not limit your calories.  You need to replenish protein after your workouts.  To increase your speed, try running distances in faster times.  Try a mile at 9 minutes, walk half a mile, then try to get it in 9 minutes again.  It seems to me that you need to increase your running speed and push yourself.  Your mile time seems a little slow, but if you work hard you can improve.

Answer 2

ur mile time is wht?? a 9 or 10 min??

if so that sucks so bad for HS

thats bad even for 5th grade

Answer 3

running cross country?, dont worry about it no one cares about cross country in hs. join the football team

Answer 4

Add distance.  The endurance will help you out.