Best performance - when to stop training

[Kent]

I have a PT test (diagnostic one) this weekend. I am concerned about the 2 mile run. The situps and pushups should be no problem, knock on wood.

I have ran two miles at least two or three times weekly, but I haven't timed my runs except the first couple. I know my last few have been faster as I completed the run actually running as opposed to gasping for breath. How much better than the original 21 minutes, I don't know. My real question is when do you stop training before an event to give yourself the best chance for your best performance? The day before, three days before, or a week prior? Right now I am tempted to just do weights for a few days to prevent a new injury or soreness from interferring, but I am wondering what true runners do before running their races.

[Iapetus999]

Re: Best performance - when to stop training

For my 5K, I ran my regular long run on Thurs, took Friday off, and sortof accidently ran a mile on Sat. Then I did my best 5K ever sun nite.

So get in some good mileage this week, but then rest before the race.
Make sure the mileage is nice and slow.
Good luck!

[jroche5998]

Re: Best performance - when to stop training

I rest one to two days before a race (but I've only run two). If you're running a few times a week that should be sufficient, I would think.

[ttdriver]

Re: Best performance - when to stop training

The best idea is to gradually taper down as the race day approaches .. When I do a 10k, I typically taper to 8 miles 4 days before, then 6 miles 2 days before, then a full rest day before the race. That works well for me.


Betty

[2big4mysize]

Re: Best performance - when to stop training

since you are only running a few miles a day just rest th day before and don't do any new to you run routes in the mean time. let your muscle memory pace you and keep you from getting any injuries on your training runs in the mean time.
Have fun doing your PT run and showing off that new healthier smaller you!

[Kent]

Re: Best performance - when to stop training

Thanks for the responses. They helped me decide going out today was better than taking the day off. I decided I would do a warmup PT test today as my final workout before weighing. I ran the PT test and timed it this time. I have to make it in 17 minutes 37 seconds. I completed the first 3/4 mile lap in 6:33, the second 3/4 mile lap in 7:38 (14:11), and the final half mile in 4:29 (18:30). The bad news is of course I didn't make passing. The good news is that I simply have to shave 53 seconds off my run to pass. The better news is I bested my last known time by over 3 minutes. I am also encouraged that my running pace is fast enough to pass.

[2big4mysize]

Re: Best performance - when to stop training

woo hoo run Kent RUN

if you need help getting faster I can PM you a method one of the HS coaches swore helped sped up the crosscountry runners. it involves Bengay and shorts. :O