re: If you are reasonably healthy, how fast should you be able to run a mile?

Thas exactly why its probably the most mentally challenging sport. Everyone looks at naturally gifted runners and assume they dont hurt like you hurt. its just "easier" for them. Its all relative. If you arent hurting every sec of your race you are doing it wrong. I wasn't always the fastest runner in the race but I found some sick twisted enjoyment out of pushing myself past the point of pain. In order to be elite this is a necessity not a luxury. In other words frick running. I absolutely despised training. I was just a fiery competitor