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Running advice....half marathon in 6 weeks.
So today I got myself a very slick pair of Brooks Adrelines, the people at the running room insisted that I buy these. So after making the purchase (which by the way is the most I have ever paid for footwear in my life) and a quick bus ride downtown to the YMCA where they have an indoor track, I find myself running to test them out. Up to this point, I've only been able to run 5k, whenever I tried to go pass this mark I felt like my muscles ached and joints were causing pain. Today, I ran 10k at a steady pace and under an hour, with no joint pain or severe muscle aches like before. So to anyone thinking of running seriously and frequently, I would totally suggest to find someone who knows what they are talking about when it comes to running shoes and make the purchase. Now to the actual question I have for everyone.
I am now six weeks away from my half marathon and have only accomplished running 10k today, I know its not alot of time but any advice I can get I will take. So anyone have any advice as to what I should or shouldn't do? What I should or shouldn't eat? Maybe stretches or exercises I should do? Anything at this point I would greatly appreciate.
Thank you everybody for taking the time to read this.
Dave
I am now six weeks away from my half marathon and have only accomplished running 10k today, I know its not alot of time but any advice I can get I will take. So anyone have any advice as to what I should or shouldn't do? What I should or shouldn't eat? Maybe stretches or exercises I should do? Anything at this point I would greatly appreciate.
Thank you everybody for taking the time to read this.
Dave
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by David McGuire on -
Dave I not only worked at the Running Room, but I have taught two 10kl clinics, and run the Chicago Marathon, I have completed the Vancouver Triathlon and I am currently training for the Penticton Ironman in August. Shoes are the most important thing. You shoes will last you on average one session of training. Depending on your usage.
Advice for running is pretty simple, no your limits, don't eat a big meal before a long run. Try to get used to getting up early at least one day a week to get yourself ready for race day. Try evey kind of gel shot, juice, fruit bar until you find what works for you. Listen to other people that have done this, but try everything first to make sure it is right for you.
Google running stretches and do them all. I stretch on average about an hour after my run/bikes etc. If you google "stretches for runners" you will find a bunch. I stretch in front of the TV and I go slow, breath and hold for at leadt 30 seconds.
Remember to drink while running. Anything over an hour start thinking about a sports drink. Buy smally ones first and test them until you find "your drink" Don't listen to what others tell you. It is a nice selection of short and long term energy. You could also use the Vega whoe food optimizer in a smoothie. That is what I do now since finding it. I also really like the vega sports drink. I have tried every sports drink there is. I find it them to be the best tasting and the least "chemical" tasting. I often water downed my gatoraid, or other drinks as they were to intense.
Remember to rest and ice. Stretch about 20 minutes after running. Eat something after running as well. That and have fun!!
I don't know if this helps but the basics are shoes, liquid, and energy, then stretch, and strech some more.
If you are going to do another run, start thinking about weights for runners. They help prevent injuries and will make you faster and stronger. Redcuing recovery time..
I found the running room running clinics really good, but I do know the YMCA has good ones aswell. That and talk to people who have done a few. Beware of the Running Snob. You will know what I am talking about when you see him/her.
Good luck!!
Oh get a good pair of anti-blister socks. Make sure they say anti-blister on them. Trust me on this one.
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Permalink Reply by Nicole Lund on -
I second the socks idea (cotton is NOT the best here). :)
I've tried a bunch of different styles of training and even after four marathons a half ironman and a bunch of half marathons and olympic distance tris I'm still fine tuning what works. The biggest thing I've found is to not be tempted to increase your distance or speed too quickly, its the easiest way to get injured (I know this from sad experience). Best of luck and have fun with your training and your race!
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Permalink Reply by Stelle Sepidoza on -
My background: newbie half marathoner who's finished 2 last year (Royal Victoria & UBC Fall Classic), 2 this year (BMO Vancouver + Edge 2 Edge in Tofino ), with one more this year (Okanagan).
Not just anti-blister but something that absorbs the sweat; I use Balga but the Ironman ones work well too.
Gels or power drinks are a defintely a MUST while running anything over 10k as it replaces all the sodium & potassium you lose when you sweat. I recommend GU but it's best to see what works for you.
The night before the marathon, have a healthy dose of carbs, don't try anything new or it may catch up to you the morning of.
If you have issues with blisters, I highly recommend Second Skin. The Running Room carries of it but you can purchase a bigger container in some stores which make orthodics.
Hope this advice helps, good luck!!
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Permalink Reply by David Bowden on -
Thank you everyone for all your help, I've already up'ed my running to 16 kilometers and without blisters or soreness in the knees. The advice was spot on, I didn't stretch as much at the beginning, but quickly started seeing the results once I took the time to really stretch.
Thanks again!
Dave
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Permalink Reply by Angela Naeth on -
Feel free to email me for some more advice: tri3angela@yahoo.com . Try to increase your total run volume by no more than 10-15% per week, include some x-training (water running, elliptical) and try to slowly increase time on feet via walk/jog. The more you can walk in the shoes the better.
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