Feats of Speed: Interview with Masters Runner, David O'Meara

What does it take to run a five minute mile? For nationally-ranked masters runner, David O’Meara, it’s a combination of diet, meticulous training and perseverance. Also an inspirational speaker, David continually strives to accomplish feats that challenge him mentally and physically. The experiences from these feats become the basis of his teachings. This summer, David is attempting his latest feat: a 27-city tour throughout New England to complete 26.2 miles in a total time less than 2 hours and 11 minutes at the age of 46.

What inspired you to set out on your SmoothToe New England Marathon?
The idea began directly after accomplishing my 2008 feat entitled 20/20/20<5@45 - that is 20 one mile races, in 20 north American cities, in 20 weeks, under 5 minutes at 45 years old. We decided that the next challenge should decrease the recovery time and add more races in order to complete a full marathon of miles. Now instead of racing once a week, I am racing on average three times a week - and the speed has to be the same as last year...sub 5. You can follow my progress in each race on my website and blog. I just finished Mile 7 at the Covered Bridge Mile in Woodstock, VT with a time of 4:47.96, bringing the cumulative time to 33:41.07. Right on track!

How long did it take you to prepare for this summer’s races?
I really began my preparation in late January beginning with base training. Then by early March, I began my speed training. I am not just into running for each race; this whole event takes a lot of strength as well. I follow a functional training program which plays a huge part in staying injury-free. The key to this year’s event is how quickly I recover.

With races only a few days apart, how do you recover that quickly?
The key to my recovery is in the SmoothToe Socks and my nutritional intake. I am running faster this year with fewer rest days - and the difference is the speedy recovery I am getting. I race AND recover in my SmoothToe Energizing Socks and I am ready to go fast again within no time. They deliver a precise amount of graduated compression from ankle to knee. The other key to my recovery is my vegan diet. I begin my day with Vega Health Optimizer in chocolate flavor. This provides me with 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals. I no longer need a multi-vitamin - thanks to Vega. I wake up the same every day - no grogginess, no heaviness - ready to excel and find my speed at 46 years old.

What do you think is the most important lesson you’ll take away from this summer?
The most important lesson I will take away from this summer's race schedule is if you treat your body right that it will return the favor. Our tag line is that you can "accelerate at any age." This is not just physically but mentally and spiritually as well.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment as a masters athlete happened last year as I travelled 45,000 miles over a 20-week span breaking the 5 minute mark 20 times. This accomplishment is the basis for my new business book coming out this fall called Creating Amazement.

You talk about wanting to inspire other people over 30 to take on physical goals like this. What is your advice for those just starting out?
My advice to people just starting out is to begin to build their foundations. Training - build a base for your entire body to function properly. Mentally - begin to build your confidence every day. I believe confidence is not a fleeting feeling but something built in your core. Nutritionally - clean up your diet and begin to choose your nutritional intake based on providing you energy, not stimulation. Spiritually - tap into your enthusiasm and passions; it will lead you on a journey of growth and learning that is fun and inspiring.

You can follow David on his journey on his website. Good luck!