i decided to see if i had been running too slow. i didn't set out overly fast, i think, but it was a bit brisk. i went as fast as i could maintain, having to slow down a bit a few times. but never had to walk. i have no trouble inhaling when running hard; what i struggle with is exhaling fully, or feeling like i'm able to exhale. so i have to work to push it all out and then take another breath.

of course, the less i pay attention to my breathing, the less trouble i have with my breathing. so my real need is to just keep running and get my body used to it again.

despite the big improvement in pace, i was not wiped at the end. i was fine. so i think it's clear i have been taking it a bit too easy; i just need to run hard the next two days and see how i am on Saturday.