I'm doing 42 things
I started running seriously as a relative late-bloomer. I never ran competetively in high school and college, but I entered my first road race when I was 23 four and a half years ago. Using a 15 mile per week training schedule, I ran 24:22. My PR today is 18:33.
You need more miles and smart training to go sub-20 if you lack natural speed. I needed around 30-40 miles with weekly speedwork to go sub-20 early last year. To run more often, it’s important to enjoy it. I recommend finding a running club and running often with others. I also like to take easier days the day before and after a hard day. Don’t let pride get in the way. It’s important to let your body recover. To get sub-19, I’ve been in the 50s for weekly mileage with a tempo run day and interval days in addition to easy days, but what I’m finding is that the more you put in, the more you get in return as long as you are smart about listening to your body.
The important thing to realize is that you can do this. I started running later and used to weigh 250 pounds, and it was so rewarding to get under 20. Good luck!
