I retired earlier this year, joined a running club in SA. I am way, way out of shape. Got two things against me, overweight and old.
In August I could not run a half mile without stopping. After training with the running club, San Antonio Road Runners, we are getting close to the December 5th SATX 5k. It will be run at night. This morning ran a "preview run". total misnomer imo, as it was only a preview for the half-marathon folks.
We ran during the daylight for a change, and it was below 70 degrees. I improved significantly...ran the entire course without stopping, and completed in 42 minutes for a pace of about 13:40 per mile. Goal is now to finish the December 5th 5k in 43 minutes or less. Already paid for the winter training(January through March) and the goal for the end of season run on April 19th will be somewhere in the 38 to 40 minute area.
I don't feel a runner's high like I used to, but I am feeling a lot better especially after doing something like I did today.