One year ago, I started training for my first half marathon.
Even though the Wine and Dine Half Marathon wasn’t for another eight months, I wanted to take the time to build up my running core, slowly.
The longest I had ever run at that point was a 5k (3.1 miles), so the thought of running 13.1 miles was daunting.
I found a few Jeff Galloway training plans to prepare myself, and set out to run three days a week. Two of those runs were generally for 20-30 minutes.
The third day, though, every other week, was the long run.
In one week I’ll be running again.
Back in December, I decided that I’d take at least two full months off from running after the Walt Disney World Half Marathon in January.
Those two months are almost up, and I can’t wait to get back into running, especially those long runs. I much prefer them over the shorter runs – they’re much more satisfying, for sure.
And if you’re a runner too – or aim to be – keep in mind that a long run is a distance that is much longer than the runs you’ve gone on recently. It’s also important to increase your distance by no more than ten percent each week.
(But please check with a medical professional before beginning a new fitness program.)
WHY LOVE THE LONG RUN?
1. Self-reflection.
Long runs take time. Mine vary from one to three hours, and that’s a lot of time to think.
I like to vary what I do while I run – I’ve called a good friend to chat for ages, I’ve listened to running and Disney podcasts, and I’ve listened to a lot of Pandora stations, and my own music.
Knowing that I’m the kind of person who almost always keeps busy, it feels healthy to just get out and think about my life for a while.
2. Fueling for the run.
When you’re running for hours, you have to fuel your body properly.
There are so many options, and I learned which foods and drinks work for me. It feels good to be so in tune with my body that I know how to treat it while running, and to know what to bring with me on the run. (I’m planning to use sugar cubes this time around, preferably fair-trade, organic ones.)
3. The gear.
While I’m not normally a big consumer, I do love to try new running clothes and gear.
From compression socks to perfect-fitting tops, I find having the right equipment almost as important as fueling right.
My running tights and fleece vest are all ready for next week.
—
I’m counting down the days. Seriously. I never thought I would crave going running – me, someone who always wanted to be a runner.
I don’t have any definite races planned out quite yet, though there are a few half marathons in New England that look pretty cool. And I also have my eye on an aquathlon in September, which involves training for a 1k swim, and then a 10k run. Swimming’s one of my favorite things to do, so I think it’d be a good challenge.
So, here we go – one year after beginning training for my first half marathon, and I’m ready for it all over again.
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{ 13 comments… read them below or add one }
Lisa!
This is so inspiring! Your initial entree into running first got me into Jeff Galloway, and I did my first 5k this winter. Now, I’m battling some gnarly shin splints and taking some time off, but I also can’t wait to get back into it. What an exciting feeling! When you miss something you never thought you could miss? Wonderful. Hope your next race goes great!
Aw, thanks Elyse! I love that you did your first 5k. So cool. I think taking time off is a great idea…you could always see someone about the shinsplints – they might recommend orthotics or taping or something.
And yes, it’s such a good feeling to crave something like running.
Ive always been impressed with your ability to walk/jog and talk to me on the phone at the same time
I’m hoping to atleast get back into my walking routine soon. Im going to try downloading those knitting podcasts like you suggested–a great way to incorporate knitting and exercise!
Hehe. Yeah, good thing for walk breaks. And running slowly enough to catch my breath to talk to you on the phone. I imagine they’ll be more phone calls like that in the coming months.
Let me know how the walking goes, and the podcasts!
Love the picture!
I think it was very smart of you to take a couple of months off to re-charge…in hindsight I wish I had done the same. Are you still thinkning about doing ToT in the fall? I think I am going to look into room and flight rates this weekend – I am literally craving another Disney race!
I thought you’d like that! It makes me so happy.
I would love to run Tower of Terror – it’s so tempting. I just have to sort out my schedule and finances. I have a conference right around that time, so I have to figure out if it’s really feasible to do both. Grrr…but I’ll let you know for sure!
How’s your running going?
Honestly, my running hasn’t been as consistant as I’d like, I’m just so tired with work all the time! I have a half marathon scheduled for March 24th and I signed up for the Dineyland half – I’m hoping to find a few more local races for over the summer, I love that it gives me something to look forward too!
If you find any good New England area ones let me know!
Which race are you doing on March 24th? (Though I think it’s too soon for me since I’m fully out of training mode). I’ll let you know if I find any good ones in New England, or in the NYC area!
Very good picture of you both but what is the meaning of the text on your t-shirt? Is sounds strange.
Greetings,
Filip
Thank you!
A Dole Whip is pineapple ice cream, which is served at Disney World. We like to say we run for Dole Whips, because we like them so much and would run to eat one, or because we run to keep from getting fat from eating so many of them.
Dole Whips are so yummy! I couldn’t wait to have one after the WDW Marathon!
You looked so happy after that run! I remember your post on compression socks…but thanks for the reminder!
Aw, thanks! I felt so good, especially compared to the first one that killed my knees. And yeah, the compression socks are wonderful – especially when I’m standing on my feet all day with my retail job!