1. Do you actually run the whole thing? Please be honest.
2. What are gels and should I try them?
3. Are one of those waist water bottle thingies a good investment? How much water do they really hold? (And what are they really called?)
4. What do you think about for 13.1 miles?
5. Am I trying to do this too soon after jumping into running?
Admittedly, before I started running, I used to think the 13.1 and 26.2 stickers on cars were bible verses! Little did I know they were actually part of a fitness culture that I have found myself wanting to be a part of. The reason I'm training for this is because I want a tie-dye 13.1 sticker, let's be real.Oh, by the way, the race I'm planning to run is the Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon: VA Beach :)
First of all... Woohoo! You're going to be great! Now about those questions...
ReplyDelete1.) 95% of the people running a half- or full-marathon are going to walk at least part of it. My advice? Run between the aid stations, walk through the aid stations. That way you can drink without splashing yourself with water/gatorade/coke. Aid stations are usually spaced 1-2 miles apart, so you're looking at losing about 30 seconds per mile using this strategy--nothing at all in the grand scheme. And you may not need to walk at every station. Figure out what you're capable of in training. Another little trick I've picked up is that when you're trying to increase the distance of your weekly long run, alternate running and walking. Try 4 minutes running, 1 minute walking (or 6:1, 8:1, whatever you're comfortable with). Your body uses different muscles when you run and when you walk, so alternating--even just a little bit--will help delay fatigue. You'll be shocked at how far you can go like this.
2.) Gels... some people love them, some people don't. My only advice regarding gels is don't try them for the first time the day of the race. You need to figure out how your stomach will react.
3.) I have never been able to get those hip packs to stay put for me. I end up spending my whole run adjusting them. I prefer to carry my water in my hand--Polar Bottles have helpful indentations that fit naturally in your hand so you don't have to grip the bottle to hold onto it. At the race? You can probably just rely on what's available at the aid stations unless you notice that you have a really high sweat rate. Also, I've found that the first couple aid stations tend to be crowded until the runners spread out a bit, so I usually carry a little mini-bottle of water that I can sip for the first few miles and then toss it in the trash at an aid station.
4.) There will be plenty of stimulation at the race itself. Other racers' ridiculous fashion choices, scenery, spectators, signs, possibly even live music. And it's a good thing, because almost all races prohibit iPods--it's a safety thing.
5.) Not at all. Just listen to your body. It will let you know if you're trying to do too much.
Go get it!
From a recent first-time half marathon runner:
ReplyDelete1) I made it 11 miles before I had to slow down and walk three times before the finish line.
2) You shouldn't need to use them during your training, but you might want to during your longer runs. I agree with Jeff that you should try one before the big race. It can't hurt to have one if they offer it the day of the race for an extra boost. It may be hard to wash down without liquid.
3) I never used one in my training, but I trained from December to April; it was much cooler. If you find yourself getting dehydrated learn where water fountains are or bring your own water.
4) The sooner you stop thinking, the faster time goes by!
5) I bet you are in pretty good shape so it's definitely a fine goal! I wonder if your training plan is a little too gentle with the long runs near the end.
Learn how to deal with the heat and make sure your shoes fit -- your toenails will thank you.
Megan,
ReplyDeleteJeff and Andy are right on! Your 12 week plan will get you ready running-wise. I've not been able to run an entire half, yet. I came close in January but then the IT band thing happened. I don't have another half planned until Nov, trying to find a September one so we will see that goes.
As for the hydration belt, that's a personal preference. I have never been comfortable with one but I know plenty of people who wear them and love them. I would try to find one on sale, they can be pricey.
Gels, yuck! LOL! Again, this is a personal preference. As Jeff said do not try anything new on race day. Try them during training runs and know how your body will react to it. Same goes for clothing, shoes.. Do not try anything new on race day - ever!! I actually prefer the jelly beans or the gum to the gels.
Entertainment... not an issue for the Rock n Roll. There will be bands along the way and plenty of on course spectators cheering you on along the way. That's the beauty of that race series, it's one big party from start to finish, literally. If you want to run with your iPhone and a music list, I do suggest leaving one side open. There's likely going to be a lot of people and for safety you need to be aware of your surroundings.
Don't over think all the preparations either. Run, prepare your body!
This is all awesome advice! Thank you all so much!!
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