Cult of Kicking A$s

Even though I'm new to Z1/Z2 base training, I'm already seeing some definite benefits:

• Aerobic endurance is much better because I'm training in the right zone.  I can go for a very long time averaging mid-Z2 on my runs when I used to gas out at about 40 minutes.
• After a relatively short time, I can see my mins/mile coming down gradually.  I'm guessing that I'll see the benefits start to accumulate after another month or so based on what others have said about their base training.
• I can push a harder gear at the same RPM for longer on the bike. 
• I feel like I can run forever and enjoy it.  I honestly felt like that would never be a reality for me.  I'm only up to about an hour's run (per the plan, of course) but I know I could go longer (see 40 minute blow-up point above).

I'm a firm believer and, while I'm nervous/anxious for my first OLY in July, I know that if I follow the plan I'll be just fine and may even hit my long range goal of sub-3:00:00 sooner than expected. 

Can we get t-shirts and membership cards for The Cult of Kicking A$s?

Wow, Jim!  That's wicked fast.  Is it your PR for a 1/2 Mary?  If not, what is?  Congrats on some major a$s kicking!

I'm about 6 weeks into base/zone training.  I haven't noticed a big a difference in running but I've noticed a big difference in riding.  I have to actually push myself to stay in zone 2.  Of course, this has been on the trainer so far.  Hopefully this weekend, I'll be able to test this outside. 

For me the biggest difference is in recovery time.  Even after runs of up to ten miles, I don't feel fatigued the next day.  Also, I've noticed a decrease in nagging injuries.  This has made it worth while.

I'm hoping for the speed gains everyone else is talking about.

Ernie

There was a LOOOOOOOOOOONG post on the HR training zones...the post that wouldn't die.  So, for starters, you could go find it...can't be hidden too deeply.

BUT...REALLY, the best way to join the cult is to pony up the $$$$ for the gold membership, go to the Training Support Forums, and say, "Mike, I need help!"   He'll assist you in learning the ways....

Previous 1/2 Marathon PR Feb 2005 -> 1:35 hrs HR avg 174, 7:11 pace
I began my 2006 season training on Nov 2005 after 2 weeks off as recovery from 2005 season. Ever since I’ve been battling with leg injuries, hence I haven’t been able to run much or at high intensities. (Although I’ve done a lot of swimming and biking including hard LT sessions)

Run hours per month prior 1/2 Marathon (Training zones based on my LTHR which is 184):
Nov 05 -> 3:56 total hrs (most zone 1)
Dec 05 -> 8:56 total hrs (all zone 1-2)
Jab 06 (prior race) -> 8:40 hrs (all zone 1-2)
New PR - Miami 1/2 marathon Jan 29, 2006 -> 1:24:45 hrs HR avg 168, pace 6:28

I still believe that to race fast you have to train fast, but after developing a SOLID base it.

You want a hit, you want the pill??? Here you go.........

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=25733&posts=188#s

Touchdown for Jesus! We have another recruit....

OMG Chippy - what have you started? Here is my question for everyone in the cult - have you been able to do the speed work associated with the Z2 runs - and I mean the 4-6 x 15-30" - I know a few of you were injured - (Chippy, Jen).

T- shirts - I like it! If you are all serious let me know, we could do something.

I'm been doing nothing but zone 2 training for the past 4.5 weeks and my zone 2 pace has dropped from around 10:30 - 10:45 min/mi to 9:40 min/mi on a run yesterday. I'll take a min per mi drop in a month. If only that would continue at that rate for the next 3 months :).

A funny side note. My wife runs with a club here in Victoria that is co-coached by Laurie Bowden, and when my wife asked her about heart rate training she told her it was a bunch of crap. Now you can't tell a 14 time ironman winner (including 2 kona's) that she doesn't know her stuff. I'm guessing she HR trains but can just tell where her body is at by feel. At that level you are probably very in tune with what your body is doing.

Yes...that's totally a HM PR. In fairness though, I've never "raced" a half before...