A BQ Quest... (Page 2)

Thanks again, everyone.  I know a BQ this year is a LONG shot, as my fitness suggests 3:2x.  But, you never know...

I posted a poll on maximum weekly mileage and years of running experience.  When I see 60+ miles, I just shake my head; but have to remind myself, that I haven't been doing this long (started running Mar'06).

When I get into the 30mpw range, it becomes painful (feet, knees, ankles); and feel like I'm flirting with overuse injuries (early indications of plantar faciitis and patella femoral syndrome).  My hypothesis is that this is from running experience, and building the physiological adaptations required to handle the stress; which surely takes time to develop.

I've never run more than 38mpw, which suggests I do have some running potential if I can manage to get there without injury.  I will hit 40+ miles this year and will attempt 50 mpw next year.  I just don't see myself getting to the 60+ mpw range.

Potential does not equal results...  Effort, desire, and ability to stay healthy while stressing the body probably are larger factors.

Another Pfitz success story here

The plans are tough but IMHO P/D delivers on every promise made in the book. For my BQ last December, I followed a modified version of the 70 MPW plan.

Sounds to me like you have the fitness for a BQ, you just need some marathon experience to execute an optimal race