The fact that I am getting faster is not lost on my group mates and one in particular really likes to ask me this, repeatedly. It is so awkward. I always reply with I don't know, because what kind of answer are they looking for? Are they just trying to be complimentary but in the most annoying way? I like that people notice but I really hate being repeatedly called out and being expected to provide some kind of magic answer to solve their training struggles.
Okay, I don't actually say that I don't think people are calling you out, when people say things like this to me I've found they typically mean it in a nice way. Also, as women we are taught to be humble, sometimes to our determent.
I'd actually answer their questions. Are there things you have changed in your training that helped you get faster? If these are your training mates I imagine they are genuinely interested in what worked for you. It might not be the answer for them, but maybe it will help them tweak their training.
Post by starburst604 on Aug 6, 2018 11:57:29 GMT -5
I think they are both being complimentary and genuinely want to know what you've done that has helped you get where you are! If there's nothing in particular that you've consciously done - just say consistency!
People who don't do anything fitness related say it to me in regards to time management. I tell them my secret is that my house is filthy and nobody in my house has clean underwear
Like wawa , people say this about how I fit it into my life. I just tell them that the time never falls in my lap and I have to carve it out. To try to make that remark a little friendlier, I give examples about how I run laps around the soccer field during my daughters practice, or up and down the road that my son fences at, and explain that I'm really just making use of the time by multitasking.
And if if it were about improving time I echo everything gt7301b said.
Post by Wines Not Whines on Aug 6, 2018 14:00:38 GMT -5
That's an odd way to phrase the question, but it seems like they could genuinely want to know what you've been doing (more mileage, more speedwork, etc.?). I always want to know how my training partners have made big improvements, because they may have some good advice I can use.
Non-active people sometimes ask me that question in a different way, like how do I find the time. I tell them running/exercise is basically my hobby and I do it instead of other things people do with their time.
Post by foundmylazybum on Aug 6, 2018 14:48:39 GMT -5
This is a weird way to phrase this question. Are they your training "mates?" Mates indicates friendship so it seems like they are asking b/c they like you and you like them and they are asking b/c they trust you--If I like people and they ask me for advice or help I give them some sort of answer instead of being annoyed lol. Maybe I have misunderstood the concept of "mate" my entire life though. ::shrug::
I kind of get that the question itself might be hard to answer and you are right, it's not some secret, magic bullet that is making you improve. So think through what "it" is that is helping you. The answer is helpful to them AND you--because knowing what "it" is provides consistency for YOU as much as helping others out!
Post by mrs.jacinthe on Aug 6, 2018 14:54:51 GMT -5
People have said this to me about long-distance swimming. I think it's because most people who are swimming laps (even most masters swimmers) are focused on speed, not mega-endurance, so it's unfathomable to not take breaks at all. I just say I can swim a long distance because I don't care how long it takes me to get there, I just enjoy the journey.
If it's about finding the time, I tell them it's mostly a matter of putting it on the calendar like any other obligation, and then sticking to the calendar.
These are people that I see often and run with a lot but I am not really "close" to. I suppose I am uncomfortable with the question because it just feels really invasive. It's not just new shoes or a better diet or whatever. I surprise myself as much as I surprise them so how am I supposed to know what is going on. I am not used to this new identity as a runner who is actually improving and setting goals and getting AG awards and such. I spent 8 years at the back of the pack and suddenly am not and everyone notices and are looking at me and it is uncomfortable. My coach likes to tell me that people are talking about me, which, as someone who hates being the center of attention, freaks me out.
I know people genuinely are happy for me and want to know how they can do the same but I legit do not know what to say. Just run a lot? Ok, but they already do that. Eat well? I am sure they do that too. I don't have an answer that doesn't sound super generic and like I am brushing them off and I wish people could just say congrats and leave it at that.
Post by Wines Not Whines on Aug 6, 2018 16:57:06 GMT -5
jade - I don't mean this in a bad way at all, but it sounds like this is more about you than them. It's normal for training partners to ask each other for advice about things like that. If you're uncomfortable answering, I would just say "I wish I knew!"
First, I think it's awesome and exciting that you are suddenly making a lot of gains. I was going to ask how long you've been running consistently, but I see at least 8 years+.
I do think they probably ask the question in a friendly and impressed way. Usually people can make a lot of improvement from consistency the first few years, but after that gains get harder.
Is there anything sleep, schedule, strength, nutrition, running, or even personal-life wise you have changed much? I'd be curious just because, but if you can't pinpoint it that's ok too. Congrats on your progress!!
Yeah I know. I just feel self-conscious. I need to embrace the I am Awesome attitude from above.
Yes! A re-read of the h&f commandments sticky post is always a great reminder that we need to own our badassery! Congrats on your progress and all of your hard work.
Post by foundmylazybum on Aug 7, 2018 13:51:04 GMT -5
You said one of the things you did was set goals for yourself. Just say that. Honestly a lot of people are just out there runnin' along wishing and hoping that they will "do good." They don't understand that goals drive purpose, training and then create motivation and confidence. They might be blown away that holy crap a simple goal has created actual improvement in someone they actually know.
And, try to to remember that they are asking b/c they like you lol. That's a good thing. No one wants to be schmoe, and no one asks schmoe's for advice!