Today’s run with the Munich Running Society Long Run was a bit of a push.
7.5 kilometers at around 4:50/km—not full-on race mode, but definitely faster than my usual pace lately. Most of my runs in the past weeks have been closer to 5:50/km, where I’ve been focused on building base, staying steady, and avoiding burnout.
So yeah, this one asked more from me. I’d say around 80–90% effort—enough to feel it, but still in control.
What surprised me most: I could still talk during parts of it.
My breathing stayed steady. My form held up. Even while pushing, I felt strong and focused.
That’s something I’m learning to really value again:
Not going hard just because I can.
Slowing down on purpose.
Building something long-term.
Resting deliberately.
Saving full effort for when it truly counts.
I’ve seen it too often—runners going all-out on every session (Strava makes that very clear). And when they talk about it, they’ll say:
“I hit the wall.”
“I couldn’t walk for a week.”
“I needed two weeks to recover.”
That’s not the kind of rhythm I’m after.
Part of me still wants to be further along already—running more kilometers, racing more often, showing faster progress. But I’m choosing the slower, smarter path on purpose—because I want this to last.
And honestly, running with others helps.
It makes the push feel easier. You match each other’s pace, pick up each other’s energy, and before you know it, you’ve done more than you would’ve alone—without overdoing it.
This pace? I’d love for it to become my new normal one day. But for now, it’s a glimpse of what’s to come.
20 kilometers total this week.
Gradual build-up. Deload week next. No drama—just rhythm.
Today’s run felt focused and meditative. Energizing, too.
Plenty of high-fives at the finish. Smiles all around.
And now?
The Easter feast has officially begun.
🐰🥚🥕😋🍗