Right, so ever since I've started running, I've always had a banana before I go out for my run (I can't run on an empty stomach!). I've recently been making smoothies for breakfast which included a banana too and I don't particularly want to have 2 bananas in the same morning. So I'm looking for another pre-run snack that I can just grab and eat when I get up and get ready for my run. Any suggestions?
Question number 2 is about interval training - I've planned out my next half-marathon training which is the standard 3 runs in a week (one short, one medium and then one long run). For my last HM I did the same and just completed the distance for each run but didn't incorporate any interval training. This time round, I want to complete the three training runs per week but I also want to get some interval training once a week too but bit entirely sure how to. Any ideas? I should mention that I'm quite new to interval training and that I also cycle as cross-training 3 times a week in between run days. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! 😀
Written by
Redcello41
Half Marathon
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Oat based snack bars, or peanut butter snack bars go down easy and give a quick, but lasting boost. I usually have a proper breakfast, especially if heading out for over an hour and carry an additional snack per expected hour plus 1 for just in case.
When I've been getting up for a super-early run recently I've had a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup about 20 minutes to half an hour before leaving. I happen to have some lying around 😊 I used to have a handful of raisins.
I am not sure what you mean about the interval training. Do you mean you want to make one of your three runs an intervals workout? You could use your short or medium run to add in some fartleks, or find a more structured intervals workout online? You don't need to do the intervals every week unless you particularly want to - every other week is fine. You could also include some faster portions in your long run, pick up the pace for a couple of km in the middle, and/or include a faster finish.
Don't rush into doing harder workouts though, ease them into your routine.
good advice about snacks and intervals.(LOVE Reece's pnut butter snacks)
Interval training is to build stamina and strength, I think? A fave session at running club was to run up hill, jog down, over and over with varying different recovery time (possibly based on how sadistic the coach was feeling!) Whilst I hated these at the time, they were great for gaining strength.
Cool thanks! Sorry, wasn't that clear in my post! Yes I want to somehow work out how to to a interval training sessions as one of my HM training runs found in the plan. Does that make sense?
I have my breakfast porridge and let it digest before heading out
If I were to have a snack though it would be white bread toasted (easier to digest than wholemeal) and good old peanut butter Or miss out the toast bit. Even quicker
Or, I would grab one of my home-made peanut power bars The recipe is on a pinned post I do believe.
I had two Clif bars given to me yesterday. I checked the mile-long list of ingredients. Hmmmm. Although I'd eat them if I had to
I can't believe how expensive they are! all of them! I did like the Eat Natural ones I got after my muddy trail race. Not bought any though
I think if you make something you know what's in it. Nothing weird and chemically-sounding
They're so easy to make and store brilliantly in the freezer. I wrap mine individually in foil and then put the whole lot in a plastic box in the freezer They've thawed out by the time you've run the golden hour. Even 8 km if needs be.
Someone just shared on Facebook an article about making your own gels. I like the idea of that except that the containers they suggest look awfully big to me! The main thing I like about gels is that they are so portable 😄
Here's the link for interest, although I know you're not a gel person 😊😊😊
Thank you! 😃. That was my immediate thought! Decanting gloop into small phials/packets 😁. I suppose you could buy a heat seal machine if you’re big on making gels at home 🤔💡💸 Kerrching
I run intervals as part of my plan. Twice a week at the mo but I think that might reduce to once a week (hope so!)
Short and sweet I'd say. 200 metres or 400 metre intervals. Eg this week i did 7 x 400 m intervals. The next lot a few days later was 9 x 200 m intervals. Pain in the arse doing 9 and 10!
I'd start small and short. Go steady!
You could just Fartlek on one of your long run if you wanted to If you're pushed for time
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
HM training plan advice please !! 
Pre race nerves!!
Training advice needed
