This morning I woke up, checked the weather, and started in on my preparations to get downtown to participate in the St. Patrick's Day 5k. I've run this race since 2008 (except in 2012 when I ran the LA marathon). Even though I'm not really running yet, it's my favorite 5k so I didn't want to miss it. The two main reasons I love this race are:

1) So many people participate and get in the spirit of "green," regardless of speed.

2) It's a flat (for here) course that takes place…

Some people run away when they hear the term 'lactate threshold,' but you don't have to! Even the recreational endurance athlete should understand the concept so that they can plan their training more effectively. And while the best way to know what your LT is to get tested with a blood lactate test, understanding the concept and the approximate effort levels associated can help you get faster.

I'm going to explain LT in a way that I hope everyone will be able to understand.…