I'm having a hard time finding my pace off treadmill. I know part of it is because the treadmill has set speeds and propells you forward while street running does not. Any tips on finding and maintaining my pace while street running?
Off-road running has only the pace you move to. I tend to vary my speeds to catch air or even make it extremely hard and tiring, for long distance though, a pace is hard to find I guess off-tread mill, I say follow the beat of music. If its faster music, hard, you run harder, if its soft and melodic, slow down and vary your strides to get more muscles working in a different angle.
But if you just day dream, your pace is just keep moving.
The general rule of thumb for finding your pace is that you should be able to carry on a conversation while running. This may be difficult if you run by yourself or on a treadmill. You want to find a pace that is comfortable, which will of course change as you get in better shape. It is better to run longer distances at a slower pace than trying to sprint and not going very far. Hope this helps. -- Jorge
Begin by walking first...surprised no one mentioned this.
Hold on to the railings and increase the speed gradully thru the weeks. When you feel comfortable, walk at a fast pace without holding the rails and "pumping your arms". When you master that, begin a lite jog. You should be able to find your pace with in 3-4 weeks, if you get on the treadmill 2-3 times a week.