Should I race this weekend?

whatjesseats

My training plan gives me the option of either 6 miles OR a 5k race this weekend, and I'm having a hard time deciding.

I've been following Jeff Galloway's training plan (http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/5k.html) to prepare for my first 10k next month--before starting this program, my running was pretty erratic, and my longest runs were about 4 miles.

Last week I ran 6 miles for the first time; next week I will go 7. My main goal for the 10k is to run the whole thing, and I'm shooting for 1:12 finishing time.

I haven't raced since Thanksgiving and in my heart I would rather do the 5k this weekend.

However, I wonder if the 6 mile run would be more beneficial to me at this point in my training.

Any thoughts?

ThickMcRunFast

If you've already done 6, and will do 7, then I think racing is fine. Plus, its what you actually want to do.

seekingstrengthX2

You can already run a 10k... unless I am misunderstanding and you walked part of that 6 mile run. Sounds like you are already ready, other than increasing your pace. RACE!

seif0068

A lot of training plans don't even have you run the full distance until race day, so you are already in great shape distance-wise for your 10k. I say do the 5k race! It will be a great way to change things up during your training. I am running a 10k in April. Good luck!

KateRunsColorado

I would do the race, eventhough it's shorter than what you would do normally, it'll get your mind back in that "race" mode, which is good training too!

Menelaus35

I would race and see if you can get a PR. Push yourself.

Eaglesfanintn

I'd say do what you really want to do. If you want to do the 5k, do that. If you still feel good afterwards, you could always do another couple of miles. I've done that before when a race I wanted to do didn't match up with my training plan.

whatjesseats

Thanks for all the input and reassurance! Now I have to pick which race :bigsmile:

changingstephanie

Race!!

ShelliePAwesome

Continue being awesome and RACE!