Illness knocked me off my running game in 2023. Nothing serious–just enough to get me out of the habit. Getting back into the routine has been a challenge.

Late last summer, I was running three miles, three or four times a week. My average time per mile was 13 or 14 minutes. Occasionally, I’d hit a speedy 12- and even a few 11-minute miles.

Something on my old phone was messed up. I kind of knew. The faster times often surprised me. Since getting a new phone, my pace consistently falls between 14 and 16 minutes/mile with no 11-, 12- or even 13-minute miles.

Sigh.

It gets worse. The difference between my walking and running pace is roughly thirty seconds per mile. It’s okay. Walking is just as good as running and easier on my aging bones and joints.

I try to go two or three miles, five days a week. “Try” may be an overstatement. Weather, appointments, and attitude sometimes get in the way. Even so, I go more often than I don’t. Mostly, I walk, but I do run occasionally–especially down hills.

At this stage, slowing down is expected. I’m grateful to be able to run at all. Doesn’t matter how fast or how far. Going is what counts.

I’m hoping warmer weather will make it easier to stick to a routine. I’ll keep you posted. As always, thanks for stopping by.