Running into '10

[katluvr]

Last night was a 4 mile run w/ the 2 mid miles @ tempo.
First mile --warm up was a bit sluggish. I really worried about hitting and sustaining 9:50 - 10 min miles. But I DID. Problem is I find my self running toooo fast, then drift down toooooo slow and then overshoot again. I really tried to "feel" what that pace was when I was at my target pace. Overall I did avg 9:50 for those 2 miles.
I DID walk about 1 min after that. I just need to do that to get my HR down and actually my breathing back in control. Last mile was where it needed to be pace wise, but was faster than warm up mile.

Question.... length of stride.
So a 10 min mile is pretty much "running" for me, meaning a bit past comfort zone. I am 4'10" and have about a 25- 26 incn(I think more like 25) inseam. So I have short legs and therefore a short stride.
On my long run on Sunday my SO (who biked around and checked on me) noted that even for my short legs she thought my stride was too short. I do know it feels comfortable. I did note that when I speed up last night for my tempo pace that my stride lengthened. But when I am in "long" distance mode I keep it short.
SO recommended "bounding" drills. Anyone have any thoughts/recommendations?

Urlea--I WISH I loved running like you did. Of course I don't think I am a "natural" at anything. Biking and running just don't come easy. (Except for doing it very slow and for a long time). You amaze me to just go out and run in those extreme conditions and seem to love every minute of it. Maybe after the marathon training I can focus more on just enjoying it. (But often without a goal I don't even find myself running). You do inspire me!

Colby--An IM?! WOW! And you just finished a marathon. You may have said but when is the IM? I really want to get swimming again adn try a sprint AGAIN. I can't imagine swimming 2 miles. OMG! I will enjoy your training updates.

Synderilah--I hope you don't have to do your long run on dreadmill again this weekend! I'll be doing my firstt 20 miler!

Everyone else--have a great run today (if you are running)!
Not sure of my cross training plans today. Friday I plan to head out to the "hill" (bridge/overpass) and run other that a few times.

Happy New Year!