First half marathon ,very tough going.

[Woodworker56858]

Has anyone done the half marathon Rheinfall Lauf in Germany? I did this last August in hot weather and found the course very tough. Really pleased to have finished ,being my first half marathon, but somewhat disappointed with my time. Trained hard for this three times a week and was hoping for about 2.35 but finished with 3.08. My training had always been on roads, easy tracks etc. This run was so different from my training. This one being a very tough course I think as I’ve no yardstick or much experience to go by. Tripped twice ,fell over once on a tree route. Loverly support though every few k with snacks, water and encouragement even in the middle of nowhere.

Have to say the course had loverly scenery my error was not researching the course in advance and having a realistic finish time in mind. Looking forward to a uk hm on an easier course to see if I can do a better time. Always like to have a challenge on the horizon.

[Sqkr Half Marathon]

I've not, but it sounds like a good one—a lovely view, and a challenge, my favourite sort! If my first attempt at a course is not what I expected then that's no bother, I just chalk it up to a recce and then do it again another time with a full game plan in place! 😁 I love that about running, there are such varied courses available to try. Do you have a UK event in mind?

[Woodworker56858 Half Marathon in reply to Sqkr]

Hi,

I’m looking at a possible hm in Liverpool ,perhaps next spring. In the meantime will do park runs and some local 10ks. Will do a few longer ons just short of a hm locally.

I always have a 10 min walk, up hill, before I start. I have noticed it takes at least a k and a half to warm up. Think you call it the ‘toxic ten’. Used to put this down to having been a heavy smoker, but think it normal at my age, e.g. my body is way behind my mind and takes time to catch up. Once this is out of the way I’m fine. Didn’t realise running has so many mind games at play and when you think you’ve had enough something keeps you going and you pass through it.....for awhile.

[linda9389 Administrator Marathon]

Congratulations on your first HM. Ooh but that sounds like a real challenge! Well done for carrying on and completing it - it must've taken so much more energy and stamina than you had trained for. As your first, the time is irrelevant really - and makes it easier to get a PB next time too. Have fun choosing 🙂

[Decker Ultramarathon]

Congratulations of your first HM Woodworker! Sounds like it was a challenging one. Well done on seeing it through! I can sympathize with tripping over roots. I just did the same this weekend Trails are a very different animal than road running for sure. I've also just issued you a shiny new HM forum badge.

[Deals1 Metric Marathon]

Congrats on yr first HM.

Sounds a tough but scenic and interesting one 👌💪

Hope u have recovered now. A flatish HM will be a walk in the park for u now ! 😀