I have discovered a new way to work out when the running muscles are too sore... speed walking! I first tried it on Sunday night when my friend wanted to go for a run, and my legs were to sore to even go slowly... so I walked at her 12 min/mile pace, and found that not only was I able to do it, but it was fun!
The next day, I went to the park to see how fast I could actually walk (and also to avoid walking on the street, since I was kinda embarrassed at this strange-looking mode of locomotion). To my amazement, I was able to walk 5 miles in 48 minutes, and my heart rate was nearly the same as a normal run! I am sore today, but not as sore as I would have been from a run of the same amount of time (I ran 35 miles last week, my legs are shot!).
If you are looking for something that is almost as intense as a run, but with less pounding, than I encourage you to give it a try. maybe try it at night or in a non-crowded place at first, because let's face it... to most people speed walking looks downright strange (or worse). But hey, did you know that 30 years ago, drivers used to intentionally drive joggers off the road because they just couldn't stand how they 'looked'?! It's true. I predict a return to popularity of speed walking in the future, because it is really a great form of exercise. Here are a couple you tube videos of speed walking competitions... these guys and gals are walking at near or under 7 minutes per mile, amazing! (ignoring the ridiculous comments is advised)
speed walking video 1
speed walking video 2
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
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2 comments:
I've found walking to be even more strenuous than running, when I get to the pace where it would actually be more comfortable to run. I really admire speed-walking marathoners!
Hey, Gary! Found your blog via a comment over at Livin' La Vida Lo Carb. I am thrilled to find an endurance athlete following low-carb. I'm new to it (low-carb, not endurance sports.)
That's great! yes I found walking to be more strenuous than I thought, as I was very sore the next day from my 5 mile speed walk experiment. I'll probably pretty much stick to cycling for cross training, but I will continue to have fun with it while going along with my wife when she jogs (she "only" does about 12 min miles, perfect speed walking pace).
Glad you found my blog, hope it helps you with your exercise.
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