Posts by hoot

Well, times really depend on whether you are male or female. I would say that running 5 miles in 40 minutes (8 minute mile) is pretty fast and that 5 miles in 50 minutes (10 minute mile) is average for a cross country runner if you are a girl. I bet your time for 3 miles was faster, because you didn't have to maintain your speed for as long.

I ran cross country in high school - and my fastest time was just under 27 minutes for a 5K. I was considered .... slow :) The girls on my team that were REALLY good ran a 21-23 minute 5K. 

I'm actually a faster runner now (I'm 22) because I work out more - my cardio capacity is pretty high because I use the elliptical machine. I definitely recommend switching up your workouts - both for speed/endurance - but also to save your joints!

Regardless of your current times, you definitely have time to train for the season (I'm assuming the season starts in the fall?) - but also - I'm sure your team would love to have you as is! 

My recommendations for becoming a better runner:

1. WEIGHT LIFT. I can not stress this enough - my team lifted twice a week (full body, legs/core most important) and we hardly ever got injured. Injury rates were high for other teams. 

2. Switch up your workouts - do long easy runs, short fast runs, and switch up the intensity as your run -  but also bike, swim, use the elliptical, etc. I really recommend the elliptical - it helps you get your lungs in shape and is easy on your joints, so that when you run, you have an easier time of it. 

These are just my personal thoughts - and I'm no professional - but I hope they help! 

1. iPod

2. Mt. Mike/Rollerblades - fun workouts you can do with family and friends

3. *** I haven't gotten one yet but I really want a watch that tells you how many calories you burned/heart rate while working out.