I ran my first 5k on Saturday and have decided to start training for a 1/2 marathon in early 2011. anyone else doing the same thing? any suggestion for a new runner?
Congrats on your 5k and deciding to run a half! When I trained for my first half in 2006, I followed a very rigid running only schedule gradually increasing my mileage every week. By the time the race came, I was pretty burned out, and stopped running for a long time after the race. I started running again and was glad to be back into it. I just finished my first half last Sunday since being back at it and I shaved 2 minutes off my time. This time, I cross-trained instead of just running which I know helped me a ton! So that is my main advice. I also run most of the time with the jogging stroller, so on race day, I had only me to run with so my pace was pretty steady.
I just completed my first half about a month ago. I ran 3-4 days a week with one long run. There are great training plans online depending on how much time you have until the race.
I used 4:1 run/walk intervals to increase my mileage on my long runs but I wasn't focusing on time because I'm pregnant. I found that the walking didn't really increase my overall pace compared to running straight through because I never got too burnt out. It worked out really well for me, let me know if you have any questions
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Definitely remember to cross-train! Sometimes it's easy to get swept up in the running but, ya, it can def lead to burn-out. Walking, lifting, hiking, swimming, etc. can really help you out mentally and physically when you're leading up to a longer race! I noticed a big difference when I spent time in the gym regularly before my last half. Have a great time!
I have ran several halfs and a full once over the past few years, I was in my best shape ever before I got pregnant. I just did my first half since I had Brendan on Sunday the 3rd and I was only about 5 minutes shy of my previous times. Like other posters said def cross train. I used the elliptical for this. I ran about 4 days a week, elliptical 2 times with a long run outside with hills on Saturday, be sure to have a rest day or two. I sort of followed a beginner training schedule I found online thru google. Like the other poster said cross train or you will get burnt out.
I will add I stopped running half way thru my pregnancy bc of a scare and switched to walking and BOY did my body respond. I gained a ton of weight (70 lbs). I still have another 20-25 lbs to lose.
I am actually starting P90X next week to try something new and then I will pick back up in January training for another half I am doing in April. Good luck!
I have a 1/2 next weekend (Nike Women's), and another one the weekend after that (Rock n Roll LA). It's such a fun distance. Ditto the cross training. I also suggest finding a race that is well organized. Disorganized races cause unnecessary stress.
Re: anyone training for a 1/2 marathon?
Congrats on your 5k and deciding to run a half! When I trained for my first half in 2006, I followed a very rigid running only schedule gradually increasing my mileage every week. By the time the race came, I was pretty burned out, and stopped running for a long time after the race. I started running again and was glad to be back into it. I just finished my first half last Sunday since being back at it and I shaved 2 minutes off my time. This time, I cross-trained instead of just running which I know helped me a ton! So that is my main advice. I also run most of the time with the jogging stroller, so on race day, I had only me to run with so my pace was pretty steady.
Good luck training and have fun
I just completed my first half about a month ago. I ran 3-4 days a week with one long run. There are great training plans online depending on how much time you have until the race.
I used 4:1 run/walk intervals to increase my mileage on my long runs but I wasn't focusing on time because I'm pregnant. I found that the walking didn't really increase my overall pace compared to running straight through because I never got too burnt out. It worked out really well for me, let me know if you have any questions
I have ran several halfs and a full once over the past few years, I was in my best shape ever before I got pregnant. I just did my first half since I had Brendan on Sunday the 3rd and I was only about 5 minutes shy of my previous times. Like other posters said def cross train. I used the elliptical for this. I ran about 4 days a week, elliptical 2 times with a long run outside with hills on Saturday, be sure to have a rest day or two. I sort of followed a beginner training schedule I found online thru google. Like the other poster said cross train or you will get burnt out.
I will add I stopped running half way thru my pregnancy bc of a scare and switched to walking and BOY did my body respond. I gained a ton of weight (70 lbs). I still have another 20-25 lbs to lose.
I am actually starting P90X next week to try something new and then I will pick back up in January training for another half I am doing in April. Good luck!
I have a 1/2 next weekend (Nike Women's), and another one the weekend after that (Rock n Roll LA). It's such a fun distance. Ditto the cross training. I also suggest finding a race that is well organized. Disorganized races cause unnecessary stress.
GL to you!