Race runners, a couple of questions...

U

usamarsha

Cathlete
My friend convinced me to train for a half marathon coming up at the end of April. I am excited and nervous as the most I've ever run is 6 miles and that was several years ago. Anyway, the schedule I'm on has me running 4 days a week, cross training 2 days and strength training 2 days, with one day of rest. (Gradually increasing the miles every week with the long run on Sat.)

So, the questions I have are:

1. Is it OK to go jogging 2 of the days with a jogging stroller? It's not a stroller for racing, but it is classified as a jogging stroller. It seems like it is a lot harder for me to run with it. I am not going to run the 1/2 marathon with the stroller, so am I hurting or helping myself by using it during my running? I can wait until Dh gets home and run at night if you all think it's a bad idea to train with it.

2. What kind of workouts do you do on your cross training days? I read on one of the websites on training for a run that you shouldn't be doing hard cardio workouts on cx training days. Just curious as to what you all would recommend.

Thanks so much for the input! I've never run a race before, but I am willing to give it a try! :)
 
Hi, Marsha. CONGRATS on deciding to do the race! Good for you.

I don't really know about the stroller. I've never run with one. BUT, I would think although it's effective for your legs, it can't be all that effective for you overall running posture. You know, you'll be pushing it with at least one arm while pumping the other...as opposed to running while pumping both arms when you're not using the stroller. Would pushing the stroller also alter your stride? Would you be taking shorter than normal strides so you don't kick the back of the stroller? I can't answer these questions, but I just thought I'd put them out there!

As for cross training days, it varies for me. When I was training for my January marathon, my x-training days changed from the beginning of my training to the end. In the beginning, while the weekly mileage was low, I would cross train with pretty much anything. I got into the habit of lifting lower body weights on my run days, upper body and another form of cardio on the off-running days. When my weekly mileage started getting up there, my x-training days turned into the stationary bike for the low impact work, and I moved my weight work to off-running days. That's just my personal approach.

Now, I'm training for a half-marathon at the end of April, and my approach is much different. This time around, I'm doing freestyle for lower body, which is working your legs 4-6 times per week (with lighter weights) and incorporate my weely runs in with that. Right now, I'm feeling really strong, so on my off-running days, I'm doing a lot of Cathe cardio...step, kickbox, intervals, etc. Doing well, listening to my body.

Where is your half? I'm just wondering what the chances are that you're running the Runner's World Half on April 30th in Allentown. (that's the one I'm doing.)

GOOD LUCK! Keep us posted on your progress.

I hope I helped a little bit.

Gayle
 
Gayle-

Thanks for the insights. I will listen to my body and see how I feel. I just thought "easy" cardio and Cathe didn't go together. ;-) Right now, just running 3 miles I feel I can do more on my x-train days, but I know I will have to decrease the intensity as the mileage goes up.

I'm planning to run in the Nashville 1/2 marathon on April 29th. Good luck to you with your run!
 
I think you should be fine pushing a jogging stroller. I have a four year old and occasionally get stuck behind that thing. I just never do it when my workout calls for speed work. It doesn't mess up my stride but I can tell you that it works my upper body. For instance, I did Muscle Max right before a run once. My DH was with me and he started out pushing the stroller. I took over for him and immediately felt it in my triceps. My heart rate also went up about 10 beats. So, it does add intensity but when you gotta run, you gotta run! You can just slow down the pace and know that even if you are running slower you are still putting your body through the normal paces.

As far as cross training goes, like Gayle said, if you feel like you can handle additional impact then any step, kickbox, etc workout should be fine. However, if you are not used to running alot of miles then something like an elliptical would probably be more practical to avoid potential injuries. The person who invented the elliptical trainer deserves special recognition as a genius! :)
 
Just want to add that you should try to do some 5K's and 10K "races" or "fun runs" as part of your training. It is a good way to see what goes on at the functions and how much time to allow yourself for stretching, potty breaks (all of them), picking up your race packet and pinning your bib on. By doing these shorter races, you will have much more ease relaxing the night before your big 1/2! Knowing what to expect is a wonderful thing!!!

Good Luck!!!
 
Thanks for the feedback! I think I will see if there are any races coming up to try. I am really excited to try this. Thanks for the encouragement!

:)
 
Hi Marsha!

I just wanted to let you know that I am running in Nashville's 1/2 marathon as well. It will also be my first race and I am very nervous.

I need to figure out my training schedule soon. The farthest I run on my treadmill is seven miles and that isn't very often.

Anyhoo, good luck with your training, and if I find any tips to share, I will!
 
Marsha...I would start first with just the 3 days of running and using the jogging stroller for one of the 4 running days to see how things go. Like Gayle said it could upset your running posture. She gave you some things to think about.

For crosstraining I would stay with something low impact like kickboxing or possibly a circuit workout, so you would get weights and cardio.

Congrats on your commitment and Sarah is also right suggesting some 5 or 10K's for training.

Good luck and let us know how things go...:)...Carole
 
I really don't think you need to worry about the jogging stroller messing up your posture. You'll find that comfort spot. Having worn out one jogging stroller and getting close to having done that with the second one, I've run 100s of miles with them! Really, don't let needing to take care of your child hold you back from running. It's also great for my DD. She's grown up thinking it's the most normal thing in the world to go out early every Saturday morning for a long run and to travel to 5 and 10ks and even a couple of 1/2 marathons! She loves it and loves running too!!
 
Marsha,

I'd like to recommend a great book. Jeff Galloway's Book on Running was recommended to me by my personal trainer/physical therapist who is also a triathlete. I was running but was experiencing chronic soreness & pain in my hips and IT band. I went to see her to have my form evaluated and it was obvious I was overtraining. This book opened my eyes to a new way of training with inserting short walk breaks throughout my runs keeping my legs fresh. He also has you running your long runs at pace of 1-2 minutes slower than your race pace.

I'm currently following the 1/2 marathon program which includes 3 days of running with one long run and two shorter runs. I cross train with strength, karate, yoga & pilates. The best thing is, my hips and legs feel much better. There are also 5k's and 880's inserted in the program to make sure you are on target with your desired race pace.

I would think the stroller would make your run alittle harder and I would not use it during your long runs. My concern would be how it affects your form and mechanics.

I haven't decided on a 1/2 marathon yet but it won't be until later in the year. I'm currently screening for my black belt and that has to take priority right now.

Good luck!

JJ
 
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