Runners: Second Wind?

pjrisher
pjrisher Posts: 152 Member
edited September 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
Hi all,
I was wondering at what point most people catch their second wind, if they do. I have yet to experience this even when I go out for long runs so I'm just curious about other runners' experiences.

Replies

  • LonelyPilgrim
    LonelyPilgrim Posts: 255 Member
    I don't know if I'd call it a "second wind" but I do get "into the zone" somewhere between 4-5 miles where everything is smooth and I feel like I could run forever. breathing is easy, muscles are warm.

    of course, this only happens if the weather is ok (not hot or humid) and the area I'm running in is only gradually hilly/mostly flat. if it's a strenuous run then that feeling never comes

    But usually, when I pull back and don't run as fast because I know I'm going to make it a long steady run instead of a shorter, more high intensity run, I do get that "everything's fine" feeling around 4 miles... the only think that keeps me from running 6 or 8 or 10 miles once that feeling comes on is that I get bored.
  • ChelseaRW
    ChelseaRW Posts: 366 Member
    I notice mine just after the second mile and again after about a fourth..if I run longer than that! If not experiencing it, are you breathing properly? through the nose?
  • LonelyPilgrim
    LonelyPilgrim Posts: 255 Member
    I notice mine just after the second mile and again after about a fourth..if I run longer than that! If not experiencing it, are you breathing properly? through the nose?

    I also agree with chelsea, the first mile or so is always the hardest.. so I forgot about that "first" second wind, when my breathing first becomes normal and I feel warmed up and steady.. then the second one like I described above..
  • ilikeher
    ilikeher Posts: 78 Member
    It depends how long you've been running and then how far you are used to going. When I first started there was no second wind...and I hated running so I really had to force myself to do it. After a while I found the second mile would be really tough but then it would get easier after that. It has to become routine and your body has to get used it. Sometimes you wont get a second wind, I ran the other day when it was 92 degrees out and I had to stop after 2.5 miles. Some days are going to be easier than others. Definitely make sure that you are pacing yourself though, that will help a lot
  • DangerRanger
    DangerRanger Posts: 327 Member
    Usually around the 5-6 mile mark I'll catch my "second wind". Turn on some Miley Cirus, Party in the USA, and BAM, FULL SPEED ahead!!
    Just kidding about the Miley part.
  • jmijaressf
    jmijaressf Posts: 215 Member
    I always get mine either at the halfway point on on the home stretch. Usually for the first two miles or so, I'm still getting warmed up and it feels more like a chore. But when I get that second wind, running feels effortless and I'm just gliding along towards my destination.
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