Half Marathon Update

A few months ago I announced that I was going to be training for a half marathon. I haven’t talked about it much and I don’t really think of myself as a huge runner. I ran a half marathon a LONG time ago (5 years+) and honestly did not think I was going to do another one again. Not because I didn’t enjoy the experience, but I wasn’t sure how I felt about the training process. My boyfriend and I agreed that we would run one together, and over the course of a few months and several long runs later, I’m slowly starting to feel more confident about my running ability.

I didn’t realize that training for something specific would really tap into my goal-oriented side but it’s honestly been so much fun. I was pretty happy with my routine of Barry’s Bootcamp + yoga/pilates/stretching, but a half marathon felt like a goal that was achievable (read: wouldn’t break my body) but would also push my limits. Who knew long runs on the weekend could be so therapeutic and enjoyable? We ran the race last weekend and I couldn’t be happier with my time – I shaved almost 30 minutes off my previous half marathon time!!

To be honest my training plan was unstructured at best. Typically a few Barry’s Bootcamp classes during the weeks (I aim for 3 miles each class) and then a long run over the weekend. I’m not an expert. But I’m convinced that just doing the long run alone goes a huge way in getting you race ready!

A few general training tips I do follow:

+ Don’t go too hard, too fast.

Only focus on increasing distance OR improving time (one goal at a time, otherwise you’re headed to injury city). Speaking of injuries, they can definitely be avoided by…

+ LOTS of foam rolling and stretching, and most importantly, REST DAYS.

Days off are so important so your body can recover from all the intense exercise you’re doing. After the race, take as much time off from running as possible. I plan on taking a week off from intense running and seeing how I feel afterwards.

+ Never increasing your mileage by more than 10% each week

This is key for not straining your body!

+ Get properly fitted for running shoes

Getting new running shoes has been instrumental in avoiding injury.

+ Train with a friend

It’s so much more fun! I never thought I would run without headphones and music. But I’ve come to love my long weekend runs with my boyfriend. We chat for part of the way and then run together for the rest.

+ Focus on nutrition

I’m really trying to be better about what I eat before and after a run. I’m still trying to figure out my ideal pre-run and night before meal (have made some huge mistakes here and let’s just say there is nothing worse than running with a stomach ache) but I am thinking something carb loaded and relatively bland. I’ve also been guilty of not refueling immediately after a long run, which you are supposed to do. I read that chocolate milk is a great post run option, so I’ve been using my weekend runs as an excuse to drink chocolate milk like a kid again. Personally I prefer running on an empty stomach, but play around with different snacks before and during your run. On race day I did have a gummy halfway through the run and the little boost of caffeine helped.

+ Get new clothes!

LOL I use every excuse under the sun to get new workout clothes but it’s true, new gear does motivate you to get active! Running in particular, you want sweat wicking materials that don’t chafe (OUCH). I love my Ultraboost sneakers for shorter training runs (light as a feather and so comfy, yet still supportive) and this jacket now that it’s getting chillier in the morning.

If you’re interested in running a half marathon, all I can say is go for it! 13.1 miles may seem daunting, but once you start training it really becomes more manageable. I don’t know if I could ever tackle a full marathon (although never say never!), but I could see myself training for a half marathon once or twice a year. Don’t hold me to that… we’ll see how I feel in a couple weeks!