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Half Marathon Group! ๐Ÿ˜„ Let's talk training plans!!!

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathon
โ€ข104 Replies

Hi Gang!!!

I have posted a lot of this information previously, so if you've already read it, apologies! ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

โ˜…โ˜… I hope you have all understood that this is NOT the same sort of deal as the Magic Running Plan on B210K! We will not be sharing a set of runs for you to do each week. This is because people are running half marathons on various dates, and what I have found that people generally have their own ideas about the plans they want to follow. I want to encourage all of you to think for yourselves in this way, because at the end of the day a training plan has to work for YOU!

The purpose of this group is to get together and share your experiences of training for the half marathon, and give support to one another. We will post regular updates to give the group focus, and offer any help we can.

I have drawn up a 16 week plan for a previous HM group, which is here docs.google.com/spreadsheet... if you're interested. It is a very gentle plan.

โ˜…โ˜… FREE ONLINE HALF MARATHON PLANS โ˜…โ˜…

There are loads of half marathon plans available for free on digital media! I did a Google search for plans and have had a browse through them. I've picked a few to discuss on here. I think they're all fine, some of them are more advanced, definitely not for beginners, but the information is very useful for learning about how to train. I'd encourage you just to have a glance at some yourselves just to see what catches your eye, because it's really helpful if you have a plan that's easy for you to understand and follow.

โ˜…โ˜… Here's a summary of what plans generally include, and what the main terms mean

โ˜… Runs, and total weekly mileage/kilometerage

Check this to make sure you'll be able to cope with the total distances noted at the beginning of the plan. Also, can you fit in the number of runs per week suggested? And does the plan go all the way to half marathon distance or not? It doesn't matter from the point of view of getting to a race, but if you just want to get to HM distance in training, this is an important consideration.

โ˜… Rest/recovery

Some plans are less specific about this than others. Basic plans may just say "rest", and may suggest doing some cross-training. More advanced plans will have "recovery runs" built in, and will probably include cross-training days as well. Recovery is as important as working out, because it allows the body time to relax and rebuild before the next heavy session. Have a think about how much time off from running you really need before you can run at your best again - everyone is different!

โ˜… Pace

Some plans will specify pace in min/mile or min/km, some will talk in terms of effort - you'll see words like 'comfortable' 'steady' 'hard' 'half marathon' '10K' '5K'. You may have to spend some time working out what these will mean for you personally. Beginner plans should emphasise a steady/comfortable pace for the majority of runs, as you should have no expectations of a finishing time for your first half marathon! And the majority of running at any level should be at an easy pace - building endurance and a strong aerobic base. But it is worthwhile to include some faster runs because these will help you in other ways than merely making you go faster!

โ˜… Tempo runs

These are often described as 'comfortably hard', which is pretty much what they do - train you to get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable! They often appear within speed intervals workouts, but they also might be standalone runs of up to an hour. Tempo pace is often specified as a bit slower than your current 10K race pace - or in effort terms it's hard work but you feel you can keep it up for about an hour.

โ˜… Intervals

No doubt you've tried these! Short bursts of fast running, paces are usually described as '90% of maximum effort' or '5K race pace' - with slower recovery runs in between. I've also spotted fartleks in some of the plans I looked at - a more freestyle approach where you speed up and slow down as you feel.

โ˜… Cross-training

Low-impact activities you can do on non-running days to help you recover while still building your strength and stamina - and keeping those muscles moving. Cycling, swimming, and yoga are the most popular. I'm a big fan of strength work too - be it bodyweight (yoga covers this to a certain extent) or lifting, but I've noticed some plans give it a miss!

โ˜… Cut-back weeks

It's a pretty good idea to cut back the mileage every few weeks to give yourself a break - also maybe use the time to think about how you're feeling and address any niggles.

Anyway.

HERE FOLLOWS SOME NOTES I MADE ABOUT A FEW PLANS I LOOKED AT

โ˜… RUNNERโ€™S WORLD VARIOUS

Runnerโ€™s World tend to be near the top of any running search, and Iโ€™ve used a Runnerโ€™s World plan (ultramarathon in my case), so I think theyโ€™re worth a look! There is quite a long list of half marathon plans here, Iโ€™ve only looked at the first three in any detail.

runnersworld.com/uk/trainin...

โ˜… Runnerโ€™s World Beginners plan (12 weeks)

Seems pretty solid, three runs per week with rest or cross training on non-running days. Builds up weekly distance from 9 miles up to 22. It only has one cut-back week, but then the mileage is pretty low anyway. I like that it has a hilly run every week (from week 5 onwards) - if you donโ€™t have hills you can substitute with intervals.

The one thing I donโ€™t think you should worry about is the stipulation that you need to be running 15-20 miles per week for at least 4 weeks before starting the plan, doesnโ€™t make much sense since the plan starts with a 9 mile week. Iโ€™d say that if you were regularly running a 10k and a couple of shorter runs per week youโ€™d be golden. Perhaps Runnerโ€™s World are getting kms and miles mixed up?

They talk about โ€œhalf marathon paceโ€ in this plan, but as a beginner you wouldnโ€™t need to know what this is I think.

โ˜… Runnerโ€™s World sub-2 hr plan (for those who have already done a half marathon) (10 weeks)

This is more advanced, with 4 runs per week, and requiring knowledge of your current 10k and half marathon race paces. Theyโ€™ve included some bodyweight core strength exercises which is useful. This one necessarily specifies pace (in min/mile). There are some mile repeat sessions at around 5 min/km, and some tempo runs at about 5:30 min/km. These types of runs are fabulous for getting you fit, but they are of course pretty hard work!

โ˜… Runnerโ€™s World Hilly Half plan (12 weeks)

Iโ€™ve included this one because it has some great strength moves with dumbbells. There are also strides in this plan, which are excellent workouts, and there are some useful ideas about hill running.

But this is definitely an advanced plan! It has 5 runs per week, so itโ€™s for experienced and dedicated half marathoners :)

The plans in this list get more specific and difficult after those. Have a browse through them for ideas and for future reference.

โ˜… NIKE+ RUN CLUB (14 weeks, or up to 24 weeks)

nike.com/gb/en_gb/c/running...

A couple of options here. I found a set half marathon plan online, and also had a quick look at the training plan on the Nike Run Club app.

โ˜… NRC 14 Week Half Marathon Plan

Pace chart, 5 runs per week, lots of track sessions, fartleks that are not fartleks, active use of the word โ€˜recoveryโ€™ with many options available for this aspect - the other two plans talk only in terms of โ€˜restโ€™. LOTS of information - this is definitely the geekiest plan! You can adjust your speeds as you go along. I admit I like the look of this plan, because it has a lot of information in it, but I donโ€™t think it's really for beginners.

โ˜… NRC app

With the app you build your own plan based upon how many runs per week you can fit in, how far you currently run, the speed you ran your most recent race (within 4 weeks), and your height and weight. There are โ€˜benchmarkโ€™ runs which may prompt the app to recalculate your suggested pace for runs. I noticed that if I went for the 2-3 runs per week option, there were no tempo runs included, and all of the speed runs seemed to be track-type distances - not very practical if you donโ€™t have access to a track, but could be approximated with a bit of planning work. If I opted for more runs p/w I saw some tempo runs in there. The app also has a GPS tracking facility, so you get the complete package - although I spotted a few complaints about the GPS in Google Play!

โ˜… SIMPLYHEALTH GREAT RUN PLANS

greatrun.org/training-simpl...

This is an example of a set of plans that are attached to a popular running event - in this case the Great Runs series.

I've included this because they have a RUN-WALK OPTION, and I'm afraid I don't know anything about run-walk plans! I have heard interviews with Jeff Galloway, and he seems like an amazing bloke, and I will try and have a read of his book at some point ๐Ÿ˜Š The run-walk plan lasts for 16 weeks.

โ˜… Beginner and Improver Plans (12 weeks)

These are different from the other plans in that they have time-based runs. Three or four runs per week, including an intervals session, and the longest run in the Improver Plan is 80 minutes. They are gentle plans with a strong emphasis on recovery - talking about incorporating a physio visit, and massage - and starting off with gait analysis! This is no doubt partly because they are sponsored by a private healthcare company, but I am impressed with the ideas because the Great Runs do tend to attract a lot of novice runners who need to be extra careful about their recovery work.

โ˜… BUPA

bupa.co.uk/health-informati...

I like the simplicity of this webpage, and I very much like the perceived effort scale they have provided.

This is a good example of a plan that uses a lot of runs by time instead of distance, which are generally felt to provide a more gentle ride. I like the way they've mixed up timed and distance long runs, which I think is helpful for a beginner given that there are four runs per week in the plan (that's quite a lot of running).

This plan is aimed at runners who have only previously got to 5 km, and I am not keen on this because the kilometerage goes up a bit drastically at first! Fine if you are already running 10 km comfortably though. You may want to consider altering the first few runs though!

They also provide an advanced plan which has much more detailed cross-training, and a lot more running!

โ˜…โ˜…Here are some more that came up in my Google search - have a look at these and see what you think! Do they look similar? Anything missing? Anything different? How would they fit in with your week? โ˜…โ˜…

โ˜… London Landmarks Half Marathon

llhm.co.uk/half-marathon-tr...

โ˜… Hal Higdon

halhigdon.com/training-prog...

โ˜… Coach Mag

coachmag.co.uk/half-maratho...

โ˜… Runners Need

runnersneed.com/expert-advi...

โ˜… Hansons

hansons-running.com/pages/t...

If you've made it all the way to the end of this, bless you ๐Ÿ˜„ And feel free to ask any questions!

roseabi xxx

November 22nd, 2019

Updated June 18th, 2020

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roseabi profile image
roseabi
Ultramarathon
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104 Replies
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GetToTheChopper profile image
GetToTheChopperHalf Marathon

Thanks roseabi - I will be using all of this... much appreciated.

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toGetToTheChopper

Heyup! How are you?

GetToTheChopper profile image
GetToTheChopperHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

I'm good - just trying to fall in love with it all again.. normal distractions of life but feel the need to get back to it (didn't get into the London Marathon for the 9th time so decided to do it for a charity in 2021 anyway) - need to get back up there and eventually be running 20 to 40 miles per week around 4 months before that date. Got new shoes as well so need to use them (only done some 4 or 5 miles runs and managed to run every other day for 7 weeks) - need to put I a plan now (and lose a stone before Christmas ha ha). You ok?

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toGetToTheChopper

Will you do a marathon next year, or is London your one and done?

I'm fine, thanks! Working through a marathon plan for April next year ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

GetToTheChopper profile image
GetToTheChopperHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

I'm unsure - don't think I will be ready for one... def halfs.. Want to do London for the experience (not bothered on getting under 4 and a half hours as it's a busy one I've been told) - I'll probably do another 2 or 3 - then done.. just maintain a half distance every 2 to 3 weeks at a weekend run then..

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toGetToTheChopper

London is a fast one if you want it to be! It starts with a lovely long downhill section, and after that, although its profile looks pretty flat, I was surprised by how many gentle ups and downs there are throughout. I find this sort of thing really helpful, rather than endlessly plodding along a completely flat route - that could just be me though ๐Ÿ˜„ It is crowded, but I didn't think it seemed impossible to keep going at a decent pace (it was impossible for me though, because I had an injury when I did it ๐Ÿ˜ฌ).

Sounds like a great plan! xx

GetToTheChopper profile image
GetToTheChopperHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Thanks - that's handy to know... I had better get fitter... getting used to the cold again.. going out for a run in Milton Keynes this evening for a change..

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toGetToTheChopper

Ahhh I love running in Milton Keynes!

GetToTheChopper profile image
GetToTheChopperHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Yep - plenty of hills (surprising) and some lovely flats... it's a local running group attached to a local running shop.. nice friendly bunch..

Setters profile image
SettersHalf Marathon

Thank you for very useful info and links, will have to get planning๐Ÿ˜€

I'm so excited ! So happy to see this post today. I have come up with a 24 week plan. I just expanded your 16 week plan. It's a long training plan but my HM isn't until the start of June so I plan to up my distance by 0.5km a week (tortoise like). I also have contingency if I get a niggle or niglette. I really like the idea of an easy week every 3 weeks.

I am very interested in nutrition and hydration when training so I can't wait to read posts on that.

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply to

Excellent!

We will get on it ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

โ€ข in reply toroseabi

Iโ€™m interested to know if people take supplements like iron (I do) or other joint care supplements (I donโ€™t as of yet)

SaskAlliecat profile image
SaskAlliecatHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply to

I'm so excited for you paulanoo! Yay! Can't wait to read all about it. What HM are you running?

โ€ข in reply toSaskAlliecat

This one Saskie forestmarathon.com/ But I'm keeping it quiet OK - just between you and me ;) - in case I don't make it

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply to

I'll add it to the list in a light grey to keep it quiet ๐Ÿ˜

โ€ข in reply tolinda9389

I could use a pseudonym of my pseudonym maybe ;)

SaskAlliecat profile image
SaskAlliecatHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply to

I love the description of it. It sounds like my kind of event. Don't worry, it's our little secret ๐Ÿ˜‰

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply to

With all that time, it may be good for you to skip the long run every 5 or 6 weeks to give you recovery time. I was amazed how much fresher I felt when I had a week off (ski holiday) - the long run felt new, fresh and exciting all over again ๐Ÿ™‚

โ€ข in reply tolinda9389

I think I'll do that. My body does like a little extra time to recover. Off I go to adjust my plan. Thanks. I have a 10 day holiday planned in May and no running then I think.

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply to

Is your plan on the computer? I'm constantly revising my plans ... I could never cope with a written plan stuck to my fridge ๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚

โ€ข in reply tolinda9389

Oh No a fridge plan would be like a monkey on my back. My plan is in Google Docs which can be adjusted on the PC or even on my phone. And the plan is like new every time. I don't notice slippage ;)

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply to

๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ˜

Bike_and_Run profile image
Bike_and_RunHalf Marathon

Thanks so much for this. Some great tips advice and links I'll be looking into a bit more.

I'm not much of a reader, but did manage to get through it all over lunch. Any chance you can make an audiobook version next time you post a long one ๐Ÿคฃ๐Ÿคฃ

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toBike_and_Run

Lol, I should do that for my race reports too!

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toBike_and_Run

Rest is important in any plan - yours can be 'rest/read all the way to the end of the latest post'

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply tolinda9389

Excellent point! ๐Ÿ˜„

cheekychipmunks profile image
cheekychipmunksHalf Marathon

Brilliant information there roseabi, thank you so much. Lots to mull over. ๐Ÿค“๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ‘

Joster profile image
JosterHalf Marathon

Thank you so much Roseabi. Is the idea that this thread just gets longer and longer with any new discussion topics, or will there be new threads? If we just want to offer and receive general moral support/swap notes and ideas etc, do we use this thread?

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toJoster

There will be new threads, probably every week, and with a new topic each time. We will be encouraging people to discuss the topics and share their progress.

The group does not officially start until the beginning of December, the purpose of this particular post is to get people thinking about their training plans prior to beginning their training.

You are welcome to bring up any related topic you wish, though, and on any post.

We will be linking the posts together as you will see I have done at the end of this post ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

Joster profile image
JosterHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Brilliant - thank you. So much really helpful information here already. I'm tentatively starting my Nike Run Club plan. I've signed up for 4 times a week so it does have tempo and speed incorporated (and only 7km for the whole of next week, my week 2!). I will, however check out others you have posted. How lucky to have these resources brought together by your good self!

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toJoster

๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

pianoteacher profile image
pianoteacherMarathonHalf Marathon

Thanks Abi that's really comprehensive and useful. I'll be doing my own plan but it's great to be able to check I'm including what I should be against these.

I'm going to be looking to up my 5k speed over the next few weeks by including a session of 6x800m reps at goal 5k pace. Interestingly this comes out at the same sort of pace as the mile repeats later in the Runners World sub 2 hour plan. Not sure I could manage sub 2 at Hastings because it's so bloomin' hilly but I'm going to gear my training towards trying and see what happens. In two race attempts I haven't actually manage to run the whole 13.1 miles yet so I might be getting ahead of myself but I don't think it will hurt to train with that goal in mind ๐Ÿคทโ€โ™€๏ธ

One of the mistakes I made last time out was doing all my training at an easy pace and missing out speed work. It got me round but I'll be trying to train smarter this time x

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply topianoteacher

Loving the goals! you're amazing ๐Ÿ˜

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply topianoteacher

You can do it! Try including some hilly runs at just <5:40 min/km, and some long slow runs over a >21.1 km distance.

pianoteacher profile image
pianoteacherMarathonHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Thanks for the tips Abi xx

Setters profile image
SettersHalf Marathon

Seems like all the plans are running at least 3x per week, is this mandatory would you say?

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toSetters

No, but I think 3 times a week for a shorter plan (12 weeks or less) is probably best. If you choose to train over a longer period then running twice a week is perfectly feasible. Although strength work and whatever cross training you can fit in will probably help!

Nothing really is mandatory, you just do what you can fit into your life, and adjust your expectations accordingly.

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toSetters

No! Definitely not. For my first HM I only ran every three days (so effectively twice one week, three times the next week) - but twice a week is fine if you have time to build up steadily to the final distance. Important to keep the long run, but it doesn't have to be every week , every other week would work fine if you have the time to build it up. The crucial thing is that it fits around your wishes - right frequency of runs, the days you can run on, whether you want to include parkrun or not .... and try to throw in some of the tempo or speed runs mentioned above in between those long, slow, easy runs. Hopefully you can find time for cross training on the non-run days๐Ÿ™‚

Run46 profile image
Run46Half Marathonโ€ข in reply toSetters

Good question Setters, glad to hear we can deviate from the plan, and have more rest or cross training days and still get there.

My cross training days will be a walk with maybe some strength training at home thrown in then or on running days coz there are only so many hours in the day!

Good luck with your plan ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ‘

Joster profile image
JosterHalf Marathon

Roseabi - Cambridge Half have just issued their planning service with these guys. Iโ€™ve not looked in detail yet but thought I would share. runningwithus.com

Setters profile image
SettersHalf Marathon

Thank you both that is reassuring, time is not an issue, but at 69 I find I really need two days off in between runs, bearing in mind I walk at least 10 miles a day, including running dayโ€™s, and that is non negotiable as would have two Setters climbing the wall if I didnโ€™t. If I donโ€™t have two days off I get very jaded . I do have a Pilate class for an hour every week, and do strength work at home too.

Not really sure why I am so worried about this, as have been up to 16k, so HM is not that far off, and I know I can walk/run the distance, but the 16k was hard, and I am desperate to be able to run the whole way.

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toSetters

I have no doubt you will get there; take your time and enjoy! 10 miles walking is a lot! I have an English Pointer, but trained her early on that she could run as far as she liked, but I was only doing a few kms - these days I find I'm taking the path round the edge of the field but she often cuts across the middle to keep up with me (she is 11 now mind you) :)

Setters profile image
SettersHalf Marathon

If I stop and sit down for a few minutes to appreciate a view both boys come back to me and look perplexed, we must go forward๐Ÿ™„ as they are 4 and 5 think I have a few years to go before they are at my level, and by then I will be on a zimmer frame๐Ÿ˜‚

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toSetters

When I hobbled to the field the day after my stress fracture I sat on the steps and let her off her lead, hoping she'd run around. Nope. Just stood looking at me. Eventually we hobbled home and I didn't go again for several months ๐Ÿ˜

Setters profile image
SettersHalf Marathon

More than you can say about me๐Ÿ˜‚

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministrator

Thanks for this Abi.... so opportune, as I have been really confused at what , Easy pace, is in actuality?

Although I have done one HM, I do still feel like a newbie...

I was unsure, whether it was my comfy happy pace... my, I feel if I can go forever pace... or slower and steadier? So... am I correct in thinking that Easy pace is slower... and a lot more relaxed?

I played around this morning, too, with the, speedier runs... and that was fun... and each one I run makes me feel stronger.

I almost wish I was doing the 1K on the Speed challenge... instead of 5 K. I managed a 4 minute 40 second 1K this morning... ! !

PS

Had to edit the run though..it recorded it as a ski run!!! :) Wheeeeeee!

Thanks for this Abi... some really, really useful stuff!

โ€ข in reply toOldfloss

4 min 40 kilometre ๐Ÿ˜ฑ only in my dreams. Well done ๐Ÿ‘

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply to

Not even in my dreams Oldfloss ..... ๐Ÿ˜

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorโ€ข in reply tolinda9389

The passing drivers were treated to a brightly clad loopy lady racing down towards the sea! X

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorโ€ข in reply to

Downhill helps for the last bit of it ๐Ÿคช

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toOldfloss

Easy pace is easy for YOU - imagine you can have a conversation as you run; you feel as though you could run for hours, that sort of thing. And it's not a constant pace, easy will be slower going up a hill, can be faster going down, slower against the wind, etc.

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Thanks you..got it!

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toOldfloss

To clarify further, at easy pace your breathing should be easy, only a bit heavier than when walking, and your heart rate will be in zone 2-3.

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Thanks you...tried a practice 5K today...and it was steady and pleasant..went for the spurt on a downhill bit...it went well. I could have carried on...but I think I will have to slow it down more to sustain it. Early days yet...I'm learning! X

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toOldfloss

If it felt easy you may well be able to sustain it - hills definitely help, I find ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Xx

Run46 profile image
Run46Half Marathon

Wow that's a lot of info thanks Roseabi...must admit I had to make two visits to get through it all ๐Ÿ˜‚

I've printed off your plan and the Runner's World beginners plan so far, will have a good look at them and take it from there.

Having recently worked up to 10 miles I'm having a more gentle week this week, maybe with an 8 to 10K long run to lead me in to the start of the HM training...eek! ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ‘

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toRun46

Marvellous!

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toRun46

Those gentle weeks are very important now your mileage has increased :)

Cantstopmenow profile image
CantstopmenowHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toRun46

You worked up to 10 miles really quickly. Fab. ๐Ÿ˜

Run46 profile image
Run46Half Marathonโ€ข in reply toCantstopmenow

Probably too quickly CSMN, but sometimes it's just so tempting to be naughty and add an extra 1k or 2 on to the run...luckily I got away with it injury free! ๐Ÿ˜

Have taken an easy week this week with only 2 runs and will take it easy in the run up to our HM training ๐Ÿ‘

Good luck finding a plan that suits you, there's certainly a lot of options!

Irish-John profile image
Irish-JohnMarathon

Great info! Many thanks :)

Cantstopmenow profile image
CantstopmenowHalf Marathon

Fabulous. Thank you. This is exactly what I need! There's a wealth of information here. - and I'm still digesting it all. It's really taken the pressure off to know that I can adapt the training plan to suit my life, fitness level and goals.

I tackled the local hill for the first time this week, against the wind, in preparation for this new challenge.! ๐Ÿ˜Š

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toCantstopmenow

Fabulous - well done!!!

Redcello41 profile image
Redcello41Half Marathon

So great to have all the pace definitions, I've been getting confused with them! :-)

Cantstopmenow profile image
CantstopmenowHalf Marathon

Knocked 30 secs off my best 5k this morning (31.25) and 10k (1.07:17). ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿคธโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ˜

Run46 profile image
Run46Half Marathonโ€ข in reply toCantstopmenow

Great times, well done...now that's the way to start a Sunday morning ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ‘

Cantstopmenow profile image
CantstopmenowHalf Marathonโ€ข in reply toRun46

Out for lunch now ๐Ÿ˜

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toCantstopmenow

You're on fire!

Hey Linda, This is a bit of a crossed wires post, but rosebi closed comments on me ;-( where this conversation started life.

Thanks for adding me into the Strava group. No set plans for any events next year I'm just getting back into running regularly and finding I'm not quite the runner that I once thought I was :-) I am lucky though in having access to many kms of off road trails on my doorstep and two dogs who are always ready for a run! Great idea to add me into the HU group for the half marathon in the Spring, inspiration/motivation to keep plodding on through the dark winter months. Laters.

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply to

Sorry about that! I needed everyone to get back to this post ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply to

Don't feel cut-off ๐Ÿ˜. You're in the right place now. The two posts were getting a bit confusing!

There is a new health unlocked Spring 2020 HM group just starting up - all the posts, info and support will be on here in this forum (totally unconnected with strava).

The post that is now closed was just to let people know that there is also a HUHM group on strava, for anyone who uses strava and would like to follow other HU strava users activities. There are people from the spring 2020 group in there, but also people from the two previous incarnations of the HU HM groups earlier this year.

Hope that makes sense :)

I see you in the strava group, and I'll add you to the list of people in the Spring 2020 HM group here in this forum, with no event planned as yet. There is a link in Abi's first post where you can see who else is in the group healthunlocked.com/marathon...

runningdad profile image
runningdadMarathon

Can I join in please? I will complete my current training plan (just for fun!) this week and need a new focus over the winter months given all the temptations... I'm signed up to do the the Edinburgh half marathon on 24th May. That feels like ages away, so I may look for something a bit earlier. Any advice on how long to leave between half marathons? I don't want to over do it, and the May event is my main focus, but feel like I'll want to get out there as soon as the weather starts to improve.

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply torunningdad

Welcome to the Group!

For resting between half marathons it depends on a lot of things, such as how long you've been running, your fitness level and regime, your experience of half marathons, etc. I recommend taking a week completely off running after a half marathon, but after that if you've no sign of injury (be COMPLETELY honest with yourself about that!) there's no reason not to take on another within 2-3 weeks. Just don't go crazy!

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply torunningdad

Just don't do what I did! I entered three HMs this spring, mar/apr/may, over a 10 week period. I ended up with a stress fracture in my foot ๐Ÿ˜ฅ. I wasn't as honest with myself as roseabi is suggesting - I knew I had foot pain (though not bad) but carried on anyway. It gave up on the short walk to the results tent after the third one ๐Ÿคฌ. I think I was particularly unlucky. In all other regards, the three close together posed no problem, with each being a bit faster than the previous one.

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply torunningdad

If you want to tell us which event you're doing in May, we can add it to the group list ๐Ÿ™‚

runningdad profile image
runningdadMarathonโ€ข in reply tolinda9389

Good tips there thanks. Iโ€™ll definitely be looking to have a good gap between them if I decide to do 2 in the spring. My May event is the half marathon in Edinburgh.

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply torunningdad

Gotcha! ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

Katnap profile image
KatnapMarathon

Info overload !!! Aaaarrrggghhh!!!

I'll try the sub 2 hours HM plan...

๐ŸŽ…๐Ÿฑ Xmas Katnap ๐Ÿฑ๐ŸŽ…

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toKatnap

There's a lot out there ๐Ÿ˜„

Most of our posts won't be like this, I promise ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿ˜Š

Katnap profile image
KatnapMarathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

๐Ÿ˜ƒ๐Ÿ˜…๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿคฃ

TailChaser profile image
TailChaserMarathonโ€ข in reply toKatnap

So are you doing the Shakespeare Half then Katnap???

Katnap profile image
KatnapMarathonโ€ข in reply toTailChaser

Can't leave you on your own!

TailChaser profile image
TailChaserMarathonโ€ข in reply toKatnap

๐Ÿ˜ป๐Ÿ˜ป๐Ÿ˜ป๐Ÿ˜˜

TailChaser profile image
TailChaserMarathon

Thanks for this roseabi!

Iโ€™ve just finished โ€˜The Fat Girls Guide to Marathon Runningโ€™ by Julie Creffield. Itโ€™s a very handy book even if you donโ€™t think youโ€™re...er...well you know... Chapter 5 is all about creating your own training plan. I got it free on the Kindle app as part of Amazon Prime membership if anyone who has that is interested in having a read.

Iโ€™m going to try to have a go at creating my own basic plan structure using the tips she gives in the book. Iโ€™ve worked out I have about 21 weeks from 2nd December to my HM which should give me plenty of time to ease into it and give myself recovery from the long steady runs that I had problems with last time. Surely that should be enough time to nail it!!

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toTailChaser

DIY is another great solution - looking forward to hearing more about your plan! xxx

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

I must admit I'm finding it much easier to juggle my basic plan this time around compared to earlier this year (just as well cos there's a fair bit of juggling going on). The individual elements all make much more sense now having been through it before ๐Ÿ™‚

TailChaser profile image
TailChaserMarathonโ€ข in reply tolinda9389

My plan last time turned into a mess once the summer holidays kicked in. Julieโ€™s book helps you structure your plan to work around stuff. I just know once Christmas gets going, then half term etc etc the same thing will happen if I donโ€™t try to factor everything I can think of!! ๐Ÿคž๐Ÿคž๐Ÿคž

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toTailChaser

I just downloaded it ... but then I realised the word 'half' is missing from the title .... and I'm not feeling particularly fat right now either ... so would like to return it just to be on the safe side ... ๐Ÿคฃ๐Ÿคฃ๐Ÿคฃ

TailChaser profile image
TailChaserMarathonโ€ข in reply tolinda9389

Iโ€™m ignoring the lack of half and Iโ€™ve eaten too many naughty things recently ๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚

Beccym profile image
BeccymMarathon

Booked so far, Brighton half(4th), London Landmarks, Full Brighton, Run Gatwick half and great South. Not training as hard as I should it is the full that worries me!

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toBeccym

Ooh, 2020 will be a busy year for you ๐Ÿ˜

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply toBeccym

I've added your three HMs to our group list

benwill profile image
benwillMarathon

Decided to enter the big half in London on the 1st of March. Not sure i have left myself enough time but we shall see as on the 10km mark increase the distance by 3km wach week i might be ok.

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply tobenwill

Hey, long time no see! Last seen on a hospital bed I think? Hopefully you have healed and rebuilt since your tumble? Sounds like a great target to focus your mind and your legs! Good luck ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ™‚

benwill profile image
benwillMarathonโ€ข in reply tolinda9389

Well healed and rebuilt is a bit strong, its been hard but getting there thank you. Pretty sure never going to as quick as i use too and been doing alot more swimming. Thank you

linda9389 profile image
linda9389AdministratorMarathonโ€ข in reply tobenwill

You may surprise yourself ๐Ÿ˜ Either way, I'm sure it will feel great to be back at it. All the best.

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply tobenwill

Hey Ben!!!! Sounds perfectly doable.

benwill profile image
benwillMarathonโ€ข in reply toroseabi

Hey, of course once you done it once the body doesn't forget right. Half's are just like riding a bike right? And maybe if this goes ok then i hear a new half down near Eastbourne at the end and of October maybe ๐Ÿ˜‚

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply tobenwill

Absolutely!

And I have heard that rumour too ๐Ÿ˜„

Nevvy profile image
NevvyMarathon

Thankyou for all the research, lots of useful Info for me here

ritu85260 profile image
ritu8526010 Miles

Hi Roseabi, I am following the 16-week plan that you shared on googledocs. I completed 7 weeks and so far it has been great. Ran my first 16 km today, the last 45 minutes were a little difficult with steely legs but I pushed on. I need to be on this forum more and participate in the discussions as the runs get longer.Thank you for the support here!

roseabi profile image
roseabiUltramarathonโ€ข in reply toritu85260

Great work!!! And it's a pleasure xxx

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