"nonrunning" marathon runners

C

Chrissysu

Cathlete
Hi, all,

I have been considering running a half marathon here in my state. It is run every summer, so I "think" I have time to train for it. I'm really not a runner, and the last time I ran, I got shin splints. Is there a program out there that could help me, a non-runner, train for a half marathon?

Has anyone else done this, or am I crazy for trying this?

Chrissy
 
RE:

www.runnersworld.com has nice training plans but my favorites are from www.halhigdon.com

When is the 1/2? This Summer? How many miles do you run now? If you don't have any type of running base right now, you may want to consider a less aggressive goal. Too much, too fast, too soon will only get you injured. Nonrunners are usually advised to train for 8 weeks or so for a 5K (3.1 miles). What is your current mileage now?
 
RE:

Also...shinsplints can be from slapping your toes down hard on the downhills or just not real good shoes. I would check into a good pair of shoes before you attempt this...:)
 
RE:

Hi,
I went from non-running to running my first 5K in May. The RiverBank Run offered an 8-week training schedule that I followed and felt that it trained me very adequately for the race. So I would suggest checking into the 1/2 Marathon race you plan to run and see if they have a training schedule available. I might be able to find the website if you would like to see the 25K (1/2 marathon??) training schedule (I believe it's about 5 months long).
Patti
 
RE:

Hey Chrissy, I am a relative non-runner training for a half marathon on October 1st. Previous to the 16 week training programme I am currently in I had run 5k a handful of times a few years ago with a good friend of mine and that was it. I am ready for a new challenge and decided to dive in. We are 6 weeks into the programme now and I am fascinated by how my body and feelings about running are changing (all for the better)! For me personally, I couldn't fathom training with a shorter programme with the ability to finish the race upright and smiling, but that's just me. You have some great resources here on the forum and I know that they can answer questions better than a green runner like me.

I think it's wonderful that you are considering taking up the challenge but would caution you to train slowly and give your body time to adjust so it doesn't rebel against the new demands. Are you crazy for trying this, perhaps a little but then again sanity is often overrated}( :+

Take Care
Laurie:)
 
RE:

Hello, all!

The race that I would be training for happens around the 1st of June, so I'm talking NEXT YEAR. I've done those 5K Race for the Cures, so I know I'm able to at least run a 5K. I haven't run in such a long time, which is why I'm asking for your advice so early. I would love to see any training programs that anyone has used and had success with. I've run/walked a 1/2 marathon before, but felt like I didn't really train for it THAT well. I'd like to be able to run then entire 1/2 marathon this time. . .

Chrissy
 
RE:

"The race that I would be training for happens around the 1st of June, so I'm talking NEXT YEAR."

(((Letting out a huge, relieved 'Ohhhhhhh'))):) Whew!!!

YES!!! What you want can be done! You'll do it!!

go to www.halhigdon.com for excellent beginner programs. Actually, your best bet would be to follow a beginner to intermediat program to a 10K since you can do a 5K with no problems.

Since a race program for a 1/2 is going to be 14-16 weeks, right now you can simply work on increasing your current running base. Try walking less and running more but don't stop the walk breaks just yet. Just work on shortening their time frame. Also, sowly add distance but NO MORE THAN 10% increase mileage per week!! So, say right now you run 10 miles a week. Next week, increase it my 1 mile and NO MORE. You can add it to one individual run but the best bet would be to break it up into 1/2, 1/3's or 1/4's and pepper it out over the course of the week. NO MORE THAN 10% a week!!

Let me just add, there is NOTHING wrong with a run/walk!! It's actually quite brilliant! Especially for distance runners! I saw so many doing that during my marathon and I trained with so many doing the run/walk. It doesn't slow you down. The recovery makes it easier for you to go faster during the run portion and helps you to go for longer.

Anyway, work on increasing your running base and snoop around at Hal's training programs. He is the absolute best with over 100 marathons under his belt!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Our Newsletter

Get awesome content delivered straight to your inbox.

Top