40 replies to this topic

[blueblood]

Hi guys

I'm happy I found this forum and spent some time reading.

I am aiming to do the SMH Half Marathon in May this year. I've been running for a bit, the longest I've run is 14kms in about 80 minutes - but felt pretty tired after that.
I'm shortish just under 160cm and not fast (but my aim is to finish without stopping/walking). I think I have some time.
So my question is

1) Planning to run 2-3 times at a shorter distance (5-6kms) and 1 longer run each week on Saturday. I know the next day should be rest day, but I play competition soccer on Sundays - the season is about to start - do you think this is doable ?

2) Need to get new runners, I hear ASIC, Saucovy and New Balance is good ? Any advice on footwear ? I am flat footed (get quite a few blisters) and need a shoe with wider head. Does anyone know which shops I can go to find these in Sydney ? I'm looking for something light but durable

3) Do you think I'll wear out my shoes before the HM if I kept to training?

4) Random - for those who have run in these HM or Marathons, do you guys listen to music ? Must say after running for 1 hr, it gets a bit boring ... how do you guys pass ur time ?


Thanks for your responses in advance !!

[Bellthorpe]

• Doable? Sure. Rest days are greatly over-rated. It only needs to be a rest day if you don't feel up to it. Not because it's the day after a long run. Keep in mind that for many runners, the day after a long run is just a shorter run.
  
• Just about all modern well-known brands make excellent shoes. I wear Mizuno all the time. Others have their favourites. I can't advise on shops in Sydney, I'm sorry to say.
  
• On your mileage, unlikely.
  
• I pass my running time by running. I can't imagine listening to music, that would really spoil a good run for me. But of course you will receive the contrary view here as well.

All the best with your training.

[Beetroot]

I'm also a shorter runner with flat feet & love my brooks adrenaline shoes. Best advice is to go to a shop that will video you in your shoes and fit you properly. They aren't the lightest shoes on the market, but they work for my feet & I don't get injuries in them which is far more important for me than weight. (I'm built for comfort, not speed). I get around 800km out of each pair of shoes.

I used to take a day off after a long run, but have found that I recover better if I'm doing a shorter run on the day after a long run. So I run on Tuesday, Wednesday Thursday, Saturday & Sunday. (I can already hear other CR's yelling "Is that all" at their screen).

I listen to music or podcasts if I'm running by myself. I don't use them in races because I enjoy talking to the other runners too much. I also make the effort to run with groups when ever possible as it makes sure I don't skip a run.

[aDrain]

blueblood, on Feb 9 2010, 10:44 AM, said:

2) Need to get new runners, I hear ASIC, Saucovy and New Balance is good ? Any advice on footwear ? I am flat footed (get quite a few blisters) and need a shoe with wider head. Does anyone know which shops I can go to find these in Sydney ? I'm looking for something light but durable

I wear Mizuno as well - very pleased with them. But different brands for different feet.

There are a few good runnning shops around Sydney, which are a good idea go visit to get good advice and right fitting. Whereabouts in Sydney are you?

You can try Running Science in Drummoyne, or there is a place in the Edgecliff Centre, or one at Bondi Beach who has posted here in CR, and I think another on Clovelly Rd.

Disclaimer - no financial interest in any of these, but did buy my last shoes from Running Science

[wombatoutofhell]

As others have said, go to a specialist running store. Nike, Brooks, Asics, New Balance, Mizuno, Saucony, Adidas-the list goes on. All the above make good support shoes and in some cases many different suport shoes. Best to get professional advice. I don't mean Athletes Foot-some of their salespeople are great, but in my experience there are alot more ordinary or even bad ones. Personally I like the Nike Equalon or Structure Triax for roads and the Salamon XT Wings for trails.
Blisters are another thing-yes your shoes can cause them but have a look at your socks. Get some running socks-it might take some trial and error to find ones you like but it's worth it. I like the Target sports socks with Coolmax, but also like Nike. Even the ones at Coles aren't bad!
I am firmly against Ipods in races-my wife and I bicker about it from time to time. I think you miss too much, the atmosphere, the banter between runners (if there is any) the cheering, the faster runner trying to pass but you haven't heard him so stay in the way-all that sort of thing. I concentrate on my running and what's happening around me-I might even admire the view. Also with Ipods etc unless you have the volume turned down you can't hear if race officials are giving you directions or trying to tell you something.
You have time to build distance so dont be too worried. You're at 14km now so by sticking to the 10% rule you'll be at 21km in about 5 weeks. Your shoes should be fine for your training and the race given you're mileage isn't overly high and it's only 3 months.
Good Luck!

[Bellthorpe]

Beetroot, on Feb 9 2010, 04:04 PM, said:

I listen to music or podcasts if I'm running by myself. I don't use them in races because I enjoy talking to the other runners too much.

Crikey. I can't imagine having a chat in a race.

[Mick]

Bellthorpe, on Feb 9 2010, 06:35 PM, said:

Crikey. I can't imagine having a chat in a race.

Pretty normal in the first half of a marathon, and at just about any point in an ultra.

[Beetroot]

Bellthorpe, on Feb 9 2010, 05:35 PM, said:

Crikey. I can't imagine having a chat in a race.

At the back of a race - where you'll find me - it's quite friendly & lots of conversations. Perhaps it's just me talking at people?? For me, racing is still just about participating - although this year may be the year to find the "speed" button and set some PBs.

[Rock Doctor]

Bellthorpe, on Feb 9 2010, 03:35 AM, said:

Crikey. I can't imagine having a chat in a race.

Maybe not in a half, but definately for the first 30k of the marathon to fill in time until it gets interesting. If it is your first half and just aiming to finish then why not.

I used to listen to music for the first few years that I was running (training and races) and still do when on my bike. I havent run with music for many years. IPODs etc are frowned upon in races by a lot of experienced runners (including myself) due to people not paying attention and weaving all over the course, which is especially annoying on a narrow course like SMH. The further back in the pack you get, the more people will be listening to music and the less people your are likely to annoy.

[blueblood]

Thanks everyone for advice ... keep them coming !!

I think I'll do my runs and keep playing soccer - might cut out the touch footy tho lol

Like the others said - can't believe you can talk during your run ? I'll stick with music/podcasts for a bit, might try wean myself off them eventually. And I'll stick at the back of the pack

As for shoes, I didn't even know Oz had Mizuno and Brooks. I live North West Sydney - so the places suggested is bit further but I might give them a go as I'm adding a new blister each time I run


My socks needs a change too. Another random quest...sorry if it grosses ppl out...just wondering how often you guys wash/change your work out gear ? Running 4-5 times a week, will mean a lot of different outfits and washing wear/tear - I must confess I 'recycle' for 2 runs ?

[Brick]

blueblood, on Feb 9 2010, 11:43 PM, said:

Thanks everyone for advice ... keep them coming !!

I think I'll do my runs and keep playing soccer - might cut out the touch footy tho lol

Like the others said - can't believe you can talk during your run ? I'll stick with music/podcasts for a bit, might try wean myself off them eventually. And I'll stick at the back of the pack

As for shoes, I didn't even know Oz had Mizuno and Brooks. I live North West Sydney - so the places suggested is bit further but I might give them a go as I'm adding a new blister each time I run


My socks needs a change too. Another random quest...sorry if it grosses ppl out...just wondering how often you guys wash/change your work out gear ? Running 4-5 times a week, will mean a lot of different outfits and washing wear/tear - I must confess I 'recycle' for 2 runs ?

For shoes maybe Manly is easier try northside runners superb shop and the assitants know lots about all types of runers.

The ipod OK in training if you need them but do not use them in the race it is dangerous and in some races it is against the rules.
As said above people tend to weave a lot while running and can not hear other runners or officials coming from behind.

Edited by Brick, 10 February 2010 - 07:21 AM.

[felisaffie]

I don't like feeling like the headphones are going to fall out but if I had a better pair I might, I have found music very motivating at times when was the right tempo but got annoyed other times when I didn't have it organised right and a slow song came on and I was distracted trying to change it.

I don't like the feeling of lack of awareness of what is going on around me when running far from home with the music though. When I have used it, it was mainly just when I was running near home.

[swaggerer]

Quote

I am aiming to do the SMH Half Marathon in May this year. I've been running for a bit, the longest I've run is 14kms in about 80 minutes - but felt pretty tired after that.

I doubt it very much if you will be "chatting" much whilst ascending the SMH hills. It's a tough run run for all.

Best wishes.

[DontStop]

blueblood, on Feb 9 2010, 10:44 AM, said:

4) Random - for those who have run in these HM or Marathons, do you guys listen to music ? Must say after running for 1 hr, it gets a bit boring ... how do you guys pass ur time ?


Thanks for your responses in advance !!

I've never gotten bored on a run. Not trying to be a smartarse, but if you find 1hr+ runs boring, why bother doing them?

You could keep all your training short and sharp, and race really well over 5k and 10k. There's no golden rule that says if racing a 10k is good, racing a half or a full marathon (or an ultra marathon) must be better. Far better to tailor your running around your personality and mindset, rather than try to force yourself to enjoy or tolerate something.

Personally, if I got bored on 1hr + runs, I wouldn't do them. Life's too short to commit to something that you find a bit of a drudge.

[aDrain]

blueblood, on Feb 9 2010, 11:43 PM, said:

My socks needs a change too. Another random quest...sorry if it grosses ppl out...just wondering how often you guys wash/change your work out gear ? Running 4-5 times a week, will mean a lot of different outfits and washing wear/tear - I must confess I 'recycle' for 2 runs ?

Fresh socks each run, or you'll find your toes getting ready to drop off

Running tops - tech fabrics dry quickly so rinse afterwards and you can often get 2 wears between proper washes (depending on how sweaty it gets)

Shorts - hand rinse as well ... but hmmmmmm


PS on subject of washing (or just rinsing), some white vinegar in rinsing water will help remove sweaty odours

[Johnso]

aDrain, on Feb 10 2010, 09:49 AM, said:

Fresh socks each run, or you'll find your toes getting ready to drop off

Running tops - tech fabrics dry quickly so rinse afterwards and you can often get 2 wears between proper washes (depending on how sweaty it gets)

Shorts - hand rinse as well ... but hmmmmmm

I would never wear my shirt or shorts two days in a row - mine get very wet with sweat and tend to smell very badly. Funny enough though my socks (Thorlos) don't usually get too bad and I often get two days in a row out of them.

Everyone is different I suppose...

[Beetroot]

Eeeeewwwww I know other threads have suggested that compression wear can be worn more than once before washing, but if I want to chat to others when I'm running, personal hygiene might be an issue. Definitely clean clothes & socks each run. I've got 3 kids so we are washing all the time and running gear dries really quickly. Although I've got a large amount of running gear, I generally only alternate between 2 favourite sets of clothing & socks.
BTW I swear by Thorlos. Never suffered from blisters. Just make sure you get your shoes fitted while wearing Thorlos if that's the sock you choose.

[Koves]

Personally I run 4 times a week and have three running tops which allows a wash before a have to wear it again. I never wear the same top twice in a row without a wash. I have only just bought my second pair of shorts so previously I used to rinse them in between runs or at least hang them out to let them air which seemed to get rid of the odour.

As for i-pods I always have mine with me. I find it's good to have a few tracks that get you pumped towards the end of a race.

With regards to runners what's good for one person may not be good for another so agree with the others who have advised that you go to a store where they watch you walk/run and assess the best shoe for you.

Good luck for the half. If you stick to your plan you should be fine.

Cheers,
Koves

[TFive]

DontStop, on Feb 10 2010, 09:47 AM, said:

if you find 1hr+ runs boring, why bother doing them?

I was thinking this also, then I reflected back to when I first started running - and I used to find longer runs were a bit boring too. I think it's something that grows on you ... Well, it certainly did for me.

As for the Ipod, leave it at home on race day - enjoy the atmosphere and camaraderie, you'll miss this if you have earphones on.

Edited by TFive, 10 February 2010 - 02:18 PM.

[sook54]

I would never wear running gear twice in a row without washing. Technical fabrics can rinse quite well in the post-run shower. My washing machine is right next to the bathroom, I just file them in there on my way into the shower (and yes we do a lot of washing in our household).

aDrain, on Feb 10 2010, 09:49 AM, said:

PS on subject of washing (or just rinsing), some white vinegar in rinsing water will help remove sweaty odours

take aDrain's advice - he is an expert on laundry tips

I rarely get blisters any more, your feet definitely toughen up after a while.

on the ipod question - I like to catch up on the news etc on my early morning runs using my tiny AM radio - don't know what I'm going to do when digital radio replaces AM soon! On long runs I like to listen to Radio National podcasts. If I'm running in an unfamiliar area I often have just one headphone in - And I never wear them during a race for the reasons others have mentioned.

Once you've done a few races you'll get to know more people around your pace - not being very competitive I'm always up for a brief chat even during a race. But long training runs are definitely much more fun done with friends.

[frankie17]

swaggerer, on Feb 10 2010, 09:42 AM, said:

I doubt it very much if you will be "chatting" much whilst ascending the SMH hills. It's a tough run run for all.

Best wishes.

(i) Plenty of opportunity for chat in the SMH given in recent times they have set it up like a "running of the bulls". Damn dangerous to not keep your wits and all 5 senses about you.
(ii) iPods were not permitted in this year's one and I suspect it will remain that way. However, there plenty of FBI Agents littered throughout the field complete with wires
(iii) Tough hills will reduce the oportunity for chat, although flat wide Hickson Road will be your best chance if you are a chatterbox. Just don't be surprised if people don't talk back. This is Sydney after all.


Good luck with it all. I am a Mizuno addict.

[Davo]

On the few occasions I tried ipods I found them very distracting and now I never use them.
Music inside your head is the way to go. A nice Brahms string quartet or something like that.....

[Bellthorpe]

DontStop, on Feb 10 2010, 08:47 AM, said:

I've never gotten bored on a run. Not trying to be a smartarse, but if you find 1hr+ runs boring, why bother doing them?

You could keep all your training short and sharp, and race really well over 5k and 10k. There's no golden rule that says if racing a 10k is good, racing a half or a full marathon (or an ultra marathon) must be better. Far better to tailor your running around your personality and mindset, rather than try to force yourself to enjoy or tolerate something.

Personally, if I got bored on 1hr + runs, I wouldn't do them. Life's too short to commit to something that you find a bit of a drudge.

A keeper. Succinct and insightful. I've not seen it expressed as well before.

I would find swimming laps boring. So I don't do it. I would find running with an iPod distracting. So I don't do it. I'm happy to run reasonably long distance, up to about 3 hours or so. So I do it.

As for the running gear question, I usually rotate two complete sets, rinsing them in the shower after each use. The socks are hung out to air, or if it's cold put in front of the fire. Shoes, three rotated pairs, with another pair for cross country and another pair for track/road racing. All Mizuno.

[zandrsmum]

If running with music makes it more enjoyable, go for it. I use my ipod on some of my solo long runs but not on others. I use it for indvidual time trials and sometimes interval sessions but not races. I agree you miss out on the atmosphere which is the best part of racing for me. I love running with others for my long runs, perhaps that is an option for you.

I also agree with TFive in that longer runs become more appealng once you get better at them. For me I tend to enjoy my longer runs a lot more now that they are not an epic battle between mind and body. Settle into them, let them become a time of reflection, relaxation and solitude which is something that needs to be learned and practiced. It is a bit like doing your first relaxation session in a yoga class, you spend the whole time stressing that you are not relaxed enough. Take some time, take some music don't worry about it, do what you enjoy and if after a time you still don't like the long stuff, run shorter like DontStop said. There is no rule you have to run a long way.

Wash your clothes, socks, hair, armpits each time. It is easy to do.

Good luck with the half, hope you enjoy both the training and the race. It is my favourite distance to date. K

[Bellthorpe]

Well if you must run with those iPod thingies, I have some tracks for you.

[rachinaus]

Bellthorpe, on Feb 10 2010, 09:00 PM, said:

Well if you must run with those iPod thingies, I have some tracks for you.

So is that like wearing those noise reduction headphones BT?

[Bellthorpe]

Even better, even better. You'd enjoy it, as I know you like to do things by the book ...

[swaggerer]

blueblood. Don't be concerned that you become bored. Running is a very individual thing. Whatever works for you is fine.

I spend some time on a spin cycle. Boring. I put DVDs on my computer and watch them. Am I trouble?

[sunny1]

Washing gear - every time - part of the discipline of caring for myself and caring for my gear. It dries overnight. Just interested ... what do you do with your soccer gear?

Music - used it to start with, got bored with it. Don't need it anymore.

Bored by 1 hour of running - time and distance are relative when running. My 21km run has recently become 'shorter'. I have become familiar with it and can picture the route in my head, I know what part of the track is coming up and because of the familiarity the time that I take to do it doesn't seem so long (it has only really shortened by a couple of minutes). I now get to the end and it doesn't feel like I have been out for 2 + hours!

Soccer training - that takes care of your 'interval' session! Good cross training.

Definitely wash the gear.

Enjoy your running!



Addition to Bellthorpe's 'silence' playlist: it-is-so hot-that-no-living-thing-is-moving silence.

Edited by sunny1, 10 February 2010 - 10:43 PM.

[blueblood]

Quote

I tend to enjoy my longer runs a lot more now that they are not an epic battle between mind and body.

thats probably it - I find it easier to run singing along (in my head) to music with a beat and 'die hard' lyrics to distract me from my attempts to breath 'normally' and the stabbing stitch that haunts every now and again

seeing as i'm typing this out in front of a tv whilst being on the phone hah maybe its just me

each to their own I guess


Thanks for the vinegar, I'll hand wash more often

Lately I discovered the wonders of eating a banana before a run.

[blueblood]

Quote

Washing gear - every time - part of the discipline of caring for myself and caring for my gear. It dries overnight. Just interested ... what do you do with your soccer gear?

its in the bag of balls from the final game last year

jking - I'm not that feral, running gear wise i do wash everything most times, I have skipped the shorts on occasion ... for soccer I clean everything after each time, including scrubbing boots - tho must confess the shin pads haven't gotten as much constant attention

[Paul Every]

TFive, on Feb 10 2010, 03:18 PM, said:

I was thinking this also, then I reflected back to when I first started running - and I used to find longer runs were a bit boring too. I think it's something that grows on you ...

Either that or you have a highly entertaining training partner.

[rachinaus]

Bellthorpe, on Feb 10 2010, 10:31 PM, said:

Even better, even better. You'd enjoy it, as I know you like to do things by the book ...

*groan*

[Buakaw]

sunny1, on Feb 10 2010, 11:07 PM, said:

Music - used it to start with, got bored with it. Don't need it anymore.

Dido. I started to find the music was good at the beginning of a run and then towards the end I would turn it off because it just became annoying. I also got sick of wearing extra things when I run. All I need is my Garmin..............and my clothes of course

Hope your ok Sunny1.

[Paul Every]

Buakaw, on Feb 11 2010, 05:03 PM, said:

Dido. I started to find the music was good at the beginning of a run and then towards the end I would turn it off because it just became annoying.

I admire your tenacity. I wouldn't even get one kilometre into a run before I found Dido annoying.

[jayrbee70]

blueblood, on Feb 9 2010, 10:44 AM, said:

Hi guys

I'm happy I found this forum and spent some time reading.

I am aiming to do the SMH Half Marathon in May this year. I've been running for a bit, the longest I've run is 14kms in about 80 minutes - but felt pretty tired after that.
I'm shortish just under 160cm and not fast (but my aim is to finish without stopping/walking). I think I have some time.
So my question is

1) Planning to run 2-3 times at a shorter distance (5-6kms) and 1 longer run each week on Saturday. I know the next day should be rest day, but I play competition soccer on Sundays - the season is about to start - do you think this is doable ?

2) Need to get new runners, I hear ASIC, Saucovy and New Balance is good ? Any advice on footwear ? I am flat footed (get quite a few blisters) and need a shoe with wider head. Does anyone know which shops I can go to find these in Sydney ? I'm looking for something light but durable

3) Do you think I'll wear out my shoes before the HM if I kept to training?

4) Random - for those who have run in these HM or Marathons, do you guys listen to music ? Must say after running for 1 hr, it gets a bit boring ... how do you guys pass ur time ?


Thanks for your responses in advance !!

I ran my first half last year (and my first full!) and would agree with many of the comments made -

- yes you've got plenty of time. Your training sounds fine, and if you're already at 14km for your long run, a HM in April will be a breeze. I slowly ramped up my long run - quite a few at 13km, a couple at 16km, and just one at 18km - that was the furthest I ran before the race and the race went fine. Its amazing how the excitement and atmosphere of the actual race can push you on!

- bought my runners (Asics Kayano) from Sydney Running Centre in Edgecliff, and highly recommend them (the shoes and the shop!).

- no the shoes won't run out before the race in April.

- ipod? Absolutely - never run without it, whether training or racing, and certainly don't feel like I'm missing out on any atmosphere.

- clothing - definitely get proper running socks (not cotton). I use Adidas (can't remember the name, but about $17 from Rebel), and worth every cent - never had a blister and very comfortable. Also recommend proper running singlet (again not cotton) to keep you as cool & comfortable as possible.

- nutrition - bananas / banana sandwich before run works for me. As your long run ramps up I would recommend planning a suitable meal for the night before - a good spag bol works great for some energy the following morning!

Cheers and good luck

Jeremy

[Bellthorpe]

jayrbee70, on Feb 12 2010, 04:42 PM, said:

- ipod? Absolutely - never run without it, whether training or racing, and certainly don't feel like I'm missing out on any atmosphere.

Serious question. What would you do if it ceased to operate just as you toed the start line?

[zandrsmum]

Bellthorpe, on Feb 12 2010, 05:56 PM, said:

Serious question. What would you do if it ceased to operate just as you toed the start line?

I had this happen to me when I first returned to racing. I had been training with my ipod, had made a race specific list and it went flat (I had charged it, just accidently left it playing) Not sure it affected my time but it did throw me and I felt a moment of panic. Since then train with it sometimes and never race with it. Anything can become a crutch, just don't need that. K

[jayrbee70]

Bellthorpe, on Feb 12 2010, 05:56 PM, said:

Serious question. What would you do if it ceased to operate just as you toed the start line?

I wouldn't say I'm dependent on it - just very much prefer running with it. I also have a Nike+ thing that is useful for getting feedback on pace. If it stopped working - you've just got to suck it up and get on with it haven't you!

[sunny1]

Buakaw, on Feb 11 2010, 04:33 PM, said:

Hope you're ok Sunny1.

I'm very ok! Are you concerned because I haven't been out much, or did I say something?

Have been Black Hilling on a weekly basis, doing my one long run per week and try to do two others, but haven't done many organised Sunday/Saturday runs. This time of the year - rowing season - is v.e.r.y busy! The rowing takes top priority (running gets relegated to 4.30am ish). When rowing season is done, I will be out and about a bit more.



Thanks for asking!

(Edit: to add something on topic: blueblood, at some stage your long run will suddenly seem shorter - in time and distance. It is a perceptual thing that changes. It is a marvelously magic moment.)

Edited by sunny1, 13 February 2010 - 08:44 AM.

[Buakaw]

sunny1, on Feb 13 2010, 09:12 AM, said:

I'm very ok! Are you concerned because I haven't been out much, or did I say something?

LOL, I'm the one who hasn't been around much. Just wanted to say G'day. Will see you at an event in the near future I'm sure. Maybe the Asics Half in April?

On topic: Used my iPod during a race once and regretted it half way through. Never again. I prefer to hear myself struggling up Ghost Tree Gully.