1. Commit to a training schedule. (Ours is posted below!)
2. Find a running partner with a similar pace if at all possible. If you work, check in your place of business. You may be surprised who has this on their bucket list. I am so blessed to have my running partner, Mary, who also happens to be my co-worker (and boss!). We have a comfortable pace (about 11 1/2 minute miles). We're able to chat while running - about work, about the kids, about how we're feeling, anything that's bugging us and what we're having for dinner. Mary and I have ran in the rain, snow and heat. There were many days where one of us confessed "If it wouldn't have been for you I wouldn't be running today!" Having a running buddy helps keep you honest and forces you to run on days when you're feeling lazy. If you can't find a friend, co-worker or family member check out a local running club to find someone with similar goals and pace. It makes a huge difference. When we don't run, not only do I miss my run but I miss spending time with Mary.
3. Share your goals with your family. If you have younger children, I'm not gonna lie - your hubby needs to get on board to help you with this goal. (If you're a single momma, share your goals with a close friend or family member and ask if they can help with childcare once a week for your long runs. Try to fit the short runs in while the kids are at school or daycare.) My hubby has been a hero on helping me on my long run days. Once they see you looking in shape with that firm runner's behind, they may gain new appreciation for your hobby.
4. Invest in a good pair of shoes. If you live near a good running store, have them fit you and be ready to drop around $100. It's worth every penny. Justin thought he was helping last spring and bought a pair of sale shoes online that gave me the worst blisters I've ever had midway through my training. They were almost the death of my first half marathon. We affectionately call them the "bear trap shoes". It was a loving gesture. He took me to VA Runner for real running shoes...
5. Eat well and drink LOTS of water! My go-to snack pre-long run is peanut butter Power Bars and my snacks along the way are usually gummies (usually Welch's or Mott's). Your body needs a little sugar boost every 4 miles or so.
Our 5 month schedule (if you start NOW you'll be ready for your first half marathon in spring 2013!):
Week 1 - 2 miles/2 miles/2 miles
Week 2 - 2 miles/2 miles/3 miles
Week 3 - 2 miles/2 miles/3 miles
Week 4 - 2 miles/3 miles/3 miles
Week 5 - 3 miles/3 miles/4 miles
Week 6 - 3 miles/3 miles/5 miles
Week 7 - 3 miles/3 miles/6 miles
Week 8 - 3 miles/3 miles/6 miles
Week 9 - 3 miles/3 miles/7 miles
Week 10- 3 miles/4 miles/7 miles
Week 11- 3 miles/4 miles/8 miles
Week 12- 3 miles/4 miles/8 miles
Week 13- 3 miles/4 miles/9 miles
Week 14- 3 miles/4 miles/5 miles
Week 15- 4 miles/5 miles/10 miles
Week 16- 4 miles/5 miles/11 miles
Week 17- 4 miles/5 miles/12 miles
Week 18- 4 miles/5 miles/5 miles
Week 19- 2 miles/2 miles/Race Day!
Disclaimer: I am not a professional trainer (Lol! Just wanted to make that clear in case some nut who reads this says "Well, Three Men and Becca told me to...") Far from it! I am just a girl who has always loved running for stress relief, fitness and fun. Jeff Galloway websites and books offer great advice and if you're not active certainly be smart and consult with a doc prior to beginning a workout plan.
I just wanted to share this plan because it may help put a goal for someone within reach! It's been said that runners are the most happy, positive people - and I know that's true! Running clears my mind and heart. I've seen my children get inspired by my fitness goals and have watched them work to reach theirs. And - I've had them tell me "Good job, Mom!", buy me flowers for completing my race and stand on the street for a while to catch a glimpse of me as I pass by on the race route.
Next stop for me MAY be the FULL Marine Corps Marathon. We'll see what 2013 brings! Lots of love and best wishes to you as you work towards your goals!
