100-up "Before"

Today I start my 100-up 30 day challenge! Basically, it's a running drill that's comprised of knee lifts. The first 100 done slowly, then the next 100 at a faster pace. The goal is to train your body not to heel strike and to develop some muscle memory for good running form.


The challenge involves doing a "before" run - a short run to assess how your body feels. Then for 30 days - every day - you do the 100-up drill. Then you do your "after" run and delight in how much better running feels! Sounds too good to be true, perhaps. But what have I got to lose?


So yesterday I did my "before" run. I set out on the trail before work in the morning and did a 3km run in warm drizzle. Actually a great start to my day. Unfortunately, I also limped home with shin splints in my right leg...


Anyhow, the run itself felt ok. Not fantastic or light and easy, but very do-able. I generally don't time my runs, but for the sake of the challenge, I turned on my Run Meter app. 2.98Km in 20:01.


As for the 100-up, today is my first drill-day and it went fine. I found the first 100 (the slower ones) a bit more challenging than the second round, but perhaps this is a sign that I was doing something wrong. I'll give it another go tomorrow and see what I figure out.


For those interested, here's a link to the article that brought this exercise to my attention.