running

A

aloxx

Cathlete
Hi there,
I was reading over some posts and noticed that there are some expert runners here. I am just starting a running program and am doing my first 5K next Saturday. I'm a very slow runner - it took me 30 minutes to do 2.75 miles today on the road. My question is this...I'd like to set a reasonable goal for myself to keep myself running - as of yet I still don't really love it! I was reading about a half-marathon in November in New Hampshire along the coast line that looks like it might be fun. It is supposed to be a "mostly flat course." Is that a reasonable amount of time to be able to train for a half-marathon? I'm in fairly good shape now, working out around 5-6 times per week anywhere from 30-90 minutes, mostly with Cathe workouts. Sorry this is so long. I just need some advice. :) Can anyone recommend any reading I should do about running? Thank you!

Alicia
 
Hi there! I think a half-marathon in November is a very reasonable goal for you. I did my first half-marathon about 5 months after I did my first 5k, so I know it can be done. :)

I am also a really slow runner... actually, I think I may be slower than you. But I've managed to do 2 half-marathons, a full marathon, and many other races (just did a 4-mile race yesterday, in fact). Don't worry about your speed. The only person you are competing with is you. :)

A great book to get you started is Marathoning For Mortals, by John Bingham. It contains loads of great advice for first time (and even experienced) marathoners and half-marathoners, as well as several different training plans to choose from. I

Hope that helps, and good luck to you! :D
 
I think that's plenty of time to prepare. I like halhigdon.com for training plans. I've run two half marathons and one full marathon using his plans.I don't think you're slow at all! I aim to run 10 min miles most of the time. Kim
 
Alicia...welcome to the world of running! http://www.mazeguy.net/sports/running.gif[/img]..I agree with Emily that a November half is very doable. I know a few sites you can check out for info:

For specific half training these guys are awesome:

http://www.halhigdon.com/halfmarathon/novice.htm

http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/half_marathon.html

Also www.runnersworld.com has great tips and also more training for half info, plus a Forum that I have found helpful.

Come on over to the cheetah (runner) check-in in the Check-in and Challenge forum as there are a number of runners at different stages of running from novice to veteran...:)
 
A November 1/2 is very doable. I create my own training plans at www.runnersworld.com

Each summer I am a beginner too. During the winter my mileage goes way down with 6 miles being the max I can do on the treadmill.

I am in week 4 of my program and just did a 6 mile run yesterday. 7 miles next Saturday.
 
Thanks to all who responded here. I've checked out the websites and bought a couple of books...now I just have to sign up so I'm totally commited! Thanks again!
 
Be warned, once you start up for a 5K, you'll be hooked!!! That's what happened to me, I did my first 5K two years ago & then did my first half marathon in Sept of that year. You'll definitely have plenty of time to train by then!!

My biggest advice after dealing w/ injuries is to get GOOD running shoes. Go to a reputable running store & get them fit to your feet properly (at least a half size bigger than your normal shoes so you have plenty of room).

Good luck!!
 
Thank you for this post. I was a runner 10 years ago for high school Cross Country. I was never fast. I was actually slow, and a distance runner.

WELL - JUST TODAY I thought that I may start up again, now that the weather is wonderful for summer. I am going to try running in a park very early tomorrow morning (so no one can really see me - ha! - Don't worry - it is a safe area!)

SO - who can recommend an excellent pair of running shoes that will prevent me from any knee/joint injury???

THANK YOU ALL! :)


"Life is too short - Be the best you can be every single day of your life!" :)
 
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