It's one of those things I've always wanted to do - a bucket list item type thing. I enjoy running, and have ran 1-2 days a week for years. (give and take of course) I don't run more than 30 minutes at a time, and 90% of the time I run with the kids in the double jogging stroller. So yeah, it's not necessarily easy or enjoyable. Ha. But, I've always wanted to complete a half. Every year, around this time, when friends I know run halfs, I always get the urge to do one. In years past, I've just thought "no way, I just can't do that." This year, however, I'm giving in to the urge and just going for it!! Why not?!
I'm almost 33. I'm done having kids. I'm not getting any younger and I like the challenge and newness of the training/race. It's something I've never done. It's something, that in my mind, is a REALLY BIG DEAL to do. It's a huge fitness/health challenge and accomplishment. It's SUPER impressive to me. So I'm going to do it!
I'm doing things a bit differently and following a run/walk training plan. I have always been prone to shin splints. I had a REALLY bad case of them about 5-6 years ago. My knees hurt sometimes and since having Allie, my hips hurt some too. I know my body. I know it's just not smart for me to try to run the whole thing, without stopping. That seems too hard to me and just not fun. I want this to be fun. Knowing that I have scheduled walk breaks eases my mind and helps me know "OK I got this." I know it'll still be a HUGE challenge for me and I'll still feel like a super woman when it's all finished. :)
Here's the plan I'm following. I'm extending the first 2 weeks by a couple weeks each to make sure I get in the groove. At this point, I have officially started last week. But this week will be my first full week. I plan to do week 1 this week and next. Then head to week 2 and do it for 2 weeks before following the plan exactly from that point on. (At least that's the plan right now)
I'm only a few runs in and I'm already SO SORE, so I'm hoping my body adjusts soon. I plan to get up before Ben leaves for work, or go out after the kids go to bed 2 times a week. Then, run with the kids 1 time a week. Then, do my long run on the weekend, solo. (or with a friend)
If you're a seasoned runner, or you've ran a half before, I'd love to hear from you! I need all the tips and encouragement I can get. Thank you to those of you who have/are already reached out. If you're a beginner like me, let's do this together!
I've thought about creating a free Facebook Accountability Group for runners, mainly because I would LOVE the accountability, encouragement and tips. It'd be open to all runners and levels of runners. Anybody training for a race. I'd love for all of us to learn from each other and get encouraged together. Would anybody be interested in that? If so, please let me know. I'd be willing to set it up and get everybody added. It wouldn't be anything like my paid groups - no devos or "curriculum" from me - just accountability and encouragement from all of us!
So.....I'm doing this crazy half thing. I'm excited and anxious, nervous and scared, but let's go!!!!!