In August, I did something that was a little bit ambitious and a little bit impulsive. I registered for a half marathon, which is coming up in February.
This is big! I ran a 5k in college, and I ran a (very, very slow) season of cross country in seventh grade, but overall, I have not-very-much running experience. I’ve been running more since I registered for the half marathon. I’ve been following the Couch to 10K app, which is interval based and then moves on to just running 2 miles, then 2.25 miles, then 2.5 miles and so on.
I’ve looked into a few different training plans, and I haven’t come up with a singular plan that I’m going to stick to. I’ve looked at the Nike Run Club app and the Hal Higdon plans
Another factor that I’m really concerned about is the fact that I’ve mostly been running on a treadmill. Mississippi is really hot and humid and I would much rather run in the cold than in the heat. Also, I can watch Netflix whole I run on the treadmill.
I’m telling myself that once it cools down a little, I’m going to start running outside, but I’m worried that the treadmill is different enough from running outside that it’s going to be a tough adjustment.
I’m going to keep writing about this half marathon thing, because that’s the only way I know to hold myself accountable. Check back for updates, and all that.
Comments
Not that you were necessarily looking for advice but…
I like the Hal Higon plans myself, though I ran less than it suggested. I made sure to get in my long run for the week and then two short runs minimum.
You can always run outside when it’s colder. You’re right that they’re different experiences though. If you add in some sprint work or hills into your treadmill runs, it’ll help you mitigate some of downsides of indoor-only training.
Keep stretching/injury prevention/strength training in mind. They might be good to incorporate if you don’t already do them.
You can do this!!!