2 replies to this topic

[Jess]

Hi!

I'm new to Cool Running, I've browsed before but have just decided it's time for me to join in! I basically just wanted to join CR for some support and to meet some like-minded people

I've only been running for around 12 months, and only consistently for the last 6 months or so. My training week varies, but generally includes at least 1x 10-12k, 2x 5-7ks, and 2 gym classes (combat and attack), as well as a few leisurely bike rides. I completed the Bridge to Brisbane 10k (in 51 mins) earlier this year absolutely loved it! The adrenalin and excitement of a race is truly something to look forward to.

So, as my next challenge, I was hoping to aim for the 2009 Gold Goast Half Marathon, which leaves me plenty of time to train! I've download the intermediate training schedule off the GCM website, and am planning on following it from tomorrow. If anybody has any tips or tricks or any words of wisdom for me, I would love to hear it

Also, I use the Nike Sportband to track my kms/time/calories, but I'm a little unsure of how reliable is it. Can anyone recommend anything else, preferably reasonably priced?

Thank you!

Jess

[maryclaire]

welcome Jess.

I think you will really enjoy the training for a 1/2 marathon. It is a fun distance to train for, and it is very satisfying to see the km's increase over time. Before long, you'll be regularly running 15 - 18 km and remembering when you were "only" running 5-7km! As far as "tips and tricks" go, there are many here more qualified than me to talk with expertise. However, I do believe that when you are building up to some serious mileage you need to provide your body with adequate rest and recuperation or you run the risk of becoming overtrained/injured/ill - or worse - stale and no longer enjoying running. Another good idea is to keep a training log - meticulously record your km covered, what type or workout you have done (speed/intervals/easy), any niggles in the body, even the shoes you wore and what the weather was like. Down the track, it will be useful to see any pattern emerging that may indicate strengths/weaknesses. And of course, when race day draws near and you start to question "can I really run that far?", you only have to look at all the work you've put into your training to believe that you have earned the right to line up at the start line with everyone else. If you are following a program - stick to it like glue as best you can. Trust the process and don't question it until it's over and you can begin to analyse it (by which time you will also be a bit more experienced). It was written by someone who knows what they are doing, and it will be a proven procedure. Again, when self-doubts creep in, it helps to remember that you have followed a tried and true program written by a professional.

Good luck - and make sure you post your progress here.

[Olmy]

Welcome Jess!!

You sound like you are doing well and are on the right track! I look forward to reading how you blitzed the GCHM!

If that's the only info you want to track, have a look at mapmyrun. You can keep a track if your runs, times etc. It also works out calories etc. Duuno how accurate it is compared to the Nike, but they both would probably be estimates anyway, so are probably equivalently inaccurate anyway.

Another thing that many use is a spreadsheet that tracks lots of things, but not calories. I can't remember where I got it from, maybe someone else has the link!

Good luck!!

Edited by Olmy, 26 October 2008 - 03:18 PM.