What have I gotten myself into…
November 9, 2011
My husband just ran his first 1/2 marathon this past weekend and has since talked me into registering for another local 1/2 marathon in April. Mind you, I can barely run a mile, but I have six months to train and am kind of excited by the prospect of being a responsible adult and getting fit. We’ve been getting up at 5am to work out for the past two weeks and while it’s painful pulling myself out of bed, I really do feel better all day long. The best part? I got a pair of the cute shoes above thanks to my friend Natalie’s recomendation.
Do you run? Do you have any tips? I sure could use them!
Comments
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I love to run! I ran my first half marathon last march and i’ve already run two more and am currently training for my first full marathon. Don’t think you can’t do it. You can. Runner’s high [aka crazy good endorphins] didn’t kick in for me until after mile six. Once you get that far, you can do anything. Also, try not to walk. Mentally, an incredibly slow jog is better than walking.
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Dancing Branflake – Thank you! I know I will feel so great if I stick with it — I already feel better than I have in a long time :)
Leslie – That’s amazing! Thank you for the insight — just this morning I pushed myself to run as long as possible rather than run/walk/run/walk. I’m slowly improving, but I definitely have a long way to go. I can’t wait to get to six miles!!! Thanks for the inspiration — means so much!
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Love the FB page. From couch to 5k they cover all levels from marathons,halfs etc super helpful & was great when I was training! Best of luck & keep us updated!!
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Go you! I’ve been training for a 5k myself – I run Thanksgiving morning. I’m considering a half in 2012 myself, but I think I’ll start off with a 10k. ;) You will do wonderfully!
Love the shoes! Buying new running gear keeps me motivated… it sounds so silly. Every time I reach a new goal I go pick something small up. Under Armour socks are my most recent purchase. I so look forward to putting them on before my runs!
Best of luck!
xoxo
*kate
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Cate – My intern told me about From Couch to 5k last night — thanks for reminding me to look it up! Will definitely be keeping you all posted — you can hold me accountable ;)
Kate – Good for you! It’s exciting right? Let’s keep each other updated on our progress! Oh and yes to running gear — I keep making excuses to run to TJMaxx and pick up more sports bras/spandex/tees. Makes it fun :)
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Definitely definitely get some CW-X tights (www.cw-x.com) — they feel like they almost run for you. I wore them for my one and only 1/2 and have sworn by them every since. Good luck!!
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Rachel S. says:
I second (erm, or third) Couch to 5K. I a not athletic nor a runner, and never thought I would be, and I love that program.
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Allie – Ohh will look them up now. I’m all about things that “run for me” haha. Cheers!
Rachel – So many rave reviews — clearly they’re onto something! Thanks!
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Katie! You rock! Pretty soon, you’ll be addicted, too!
That Natalie… always great suggestions :)
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I couldn’t even run 60 seconds when I started 3 years ago! (I used Couch to 5K as well – it’s the best!) Now I have two marathons under my belt.
My advice is that you won’t love running until you’re good [ie not gasping for breath] at it – hang in there, it WILL get easier! Also, run at the speed of chat (worry about getting faster once you’ve mastered distance).
I run every day (over the Brooklyn Bridge!) and I am so grateful I can. I don’t HAVE to run, I GET to run!
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That’s awesome! I started a few months back running with a friend of mine (i used to do intervals (which are great also) but now I’m running like 5 1/2 miles with her about 3 times a week!) it definitely gets easier and it’s awesome to run with someone who pushes you (and in my case is a better runner!)
I use Run Keeper app on my iphone, it’s a great way to track your progress and remember the good and hard parts!
I also think having cute and comfortable clothes helps, sounds silly, but makes you feel so much better! -
Every so often I entertain the idea of becoming a runner. I’d love to run a half-marathon, but I’m not sure my ballet-battered knees could take it.
I swear by Lululemon athletic gear though.
Good luck!
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Please share your training experience with us! I’m in the same boat as you. I can barely even run a mile. I’m part clydesdale; however, my husband has run a marathon and a few half marathons. I know it’s something he would really love for us to do together. I think it would be a great gift to give to him to commit to a half marathon. You may have inspired me. Of course, I’d be down for new shoes and lots of Lululemon gear:) Can’t wait to hear more! Keep up the great work.
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Kate – Natalie fan club!! :)
Kate – Oh my goodness, so inspiring. 2 marathons?! I’m glad it will get easier — needed to hear that :) Thank you!!!
Elizabeth – Run keeper, looking it up now! I know what you mean about having a buddy. My husband gets me out of bed at the crack of dawn and keeps me motivated, don’t think I’d have the courage if it weren’t for him!
Kaitlin – I love Lululemon, it’s all so cute! A ballet dancer, I’m impressed!
Ashley – You should do it! I’m telling you, if I make it, anyone can. Of course that’s to be determined, but I’m committed ;) Good luck!!!
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how great! you’ll do fine. the only advice i have is to work up to the 13 miles slow and steady. i can usually barely run 3 miles when i start my training and always have something go wrong about the week i run 11 miles. i think i just push my body too hard in a too short amount of time. good luck!
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Amy – Very good advice! I plan to take it slow and I’m so out of shape I fear I have no choice ;) So many runners reading, I’m in awe of you all!
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You can so do it. I could barely run two miles, trained, and trained, did the SF marathon (which is the best marathon ever) and have now signed up for my second one. If you ever want tips, inspiration, or just an internet high five … I’m your gal. You will rock it lady and love every minute of it. Bisous.
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Caroline – There’s hope for me! :) I may well be writing you asking for help. Here goes nothing! Cheers to you on marathon #2 — good luck!!!
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Congrats on starting your running career! I’m a professional track runner and it has definitely been a journey from high school to college to professional training! My tips: have fun with it– find pretty places to run and enjoy your surroundings– vary your distance and paces from day to day (don’t just jog 3 miles every day– mix it up with a fast 3 mile run one day and then an easy longer run the next), and most of all RECOVER! Take a day off every week, ice any part of your legs that feel sore, wear compression socks to bed!
Good luck! You’ll be great!
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Congratulations on committing to it! I think that’s one of the hardest parts. I’m running my first half in a week and a half and am excited, but nervous. I’m another one of those who had to work up to the first three-mile training run, but it DOES get easier!
I second the advice to take it slow and steady – I was sort of training a few years ago and I think I upped my distance too quickly, and it wreaked havoc on my knees and I had to quit for a while. This time, I’ve taken it slow and steady (and have been running in Vibrams, which I love and think help a lot) and haven’t had any injuries. Good luck!
Preethi
lace, etc. -
I’m running a three mile race this Thanksgiving in Dallas called the Turkey Trot, I do it every year, it’s a fun tradition and keeps me motivated to keep in shape! I wish the best for you!
Fun fact: Organic chocolate milk is one of the best things to drink after you work out, it helps with protein and provides carbohydrates you will need after you’re through!
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Good for you Katie! I can’t do the crack of dawn thing, but my resolution upon reaching 50 is to work out every day Monday to Friday.
Now I have NEVER even come close to that schedule in my life before. Even as a kid.
So, except for High Point, I have done it since Labor Day. Feel amazing and clothes fit great.
Best decision you ever could have made.
xo, Lynn -
How inspiring! This weekend I will get fitted for my first pair of running sneakers – I have poor knees and tight Achilles tendons, but watching my husband run has been inspiring, so I know I want to go for it. He is going to be in the NYC marathon next year; I know I am faaaaar from it, but I hope to complete a half marathon by the end of next year.
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Stephanie – A professional?! I’m in awe. How fun to make a career of exercise! I love your tips — I need to mix it up!
Preethi – My husband just got Vibrams and he’s so excited about them. I may have to convert! Good luck on your first 1/2!! I’m inspired!!
Jillian – Need to stock up on organic milk! Wish we had a turkey trot run here! Must research!
Lynn – Good for you! It’s really been a life changer and I’ve only been at it a couple weeks. Can’t wait to see the long term affects — certainly makes one feel healthier all day long.
Maria – Ohh I’m curious to hear what pair you decide on! I just got fitted and it was so interesting… I’m happy with my New Balances thus far! Happy shoe shopping!
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Cece says:
Are you running the SLO half marathon? I just signed up with my entire family! Officially terrified.
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Cece – No, I didn’t know they had one! We’re running one here in San Francisco. Good luck!!
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Running is the one form of exercise that immediately makes me feel stronger (mentally) . But you have to keep at it, if you break your rhythm for a few weeks, it is a slow climb back to your best pace and timing. I started running this march, I was very unfit and it took me a while to get into it but love it now. Don’t forget your pre run and post run nutrition. Have fun. Love the shoes. My trainer collection is getting rather big with this reward system :).
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I’ve been running for the past 15 years and along those years I’ve done many 5K, 10k, half marathons and 2 marathons. I can’t explain to you (or anyone) how happy running makes me, it uplifts my mood in such an incredible way! That’s why I always try to encourage people to run, or just do any fitness activity, the positive gain is huge!
You have plenty of time to train, just be consistent and don’t over do it, there is nothing more frustrating than getting an injury for over-training. There is a book called “Women’s Running”, can’t remember the author (and don’t have it with me right now) but the cover is red, I highly recommend it, very inspiring and motivating and has lots of tips and training advice.
I think my biggest advice would be having the proper shoes (check out if you pronate or supinate) to avoid injuries, and get informed on what to do and how to train accordingly, most people think that running is just getting your shoes on but that’s just the first step, there is much more to it!
Good luck! I look forward to reading about your experience! -
Charlotte says:
HI Katie,
As one of your older readers and after 30 years+ as a runner, my advice is to incorporate some kind of stretching and core strengthening cross training to protect against injury – yoga and pilates are a great balance to running.I found running a great time to solved most of my dilemmas and creative inspirations just seemed to appear out of nowhere.
Best of luck,
Charlotte -
Good for you! (And I have missed your posts, Mrs. Armour!) Why not start with the Couch potato to 5K and then build from there? If you google it, it will come up.
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Katie! I run every day and cannot live without it. This summer I was injured for a few months and couldn’t run – oh man. It was rough. Once you get hooked on running, your life will be forever changed. I assure you :) I am so excited for you!
PS: Can you tell I’m kind of obsessed? Happy trails!
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Woo Hoo! You picked a terrific sport for sure. I just picked up a pair of the New Balance Minimus trail runners and I’m in love. I do love the super cute road pairs above, too. I always feel its best to look as good as you feel exercising. With that in mind, Lululemon is a fun shop for a go-to workout wardrobe. Have a blast!
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Katie – I ran my first and only half marathon with my boyfriend (now husband) a year ago and it was such a rewarding experience. Besides feeling proud of the training we committed to, it was so nice to accomplish something with a partner. I don’t think I would have been able to finish if he hadn’t encouraged me through the last 3 miles!
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Glad to know I’m not the only one who can barely run a mile! You inspire me to dust off my running shoes- can’t wait to hear how your training goes!
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Marianna Winterhalter says:
Hi there!
Way to go fellow runner! Though sometimes this much running is too hard on me (though I’ve run full and halfs), it’s incredibly informative: halhigdon.com …it’s awesome!
Also, have you read Born to Run? Yes, it’s a little subjective but it’ll make you remember to enjoy what you’re doing, and not run so heavy (and drink a lot of fluids!).
Happy running!
~M -
Running – great! I started with a 5K and then I got hooked. I’ve run several 1/2 marathons but haven’t yet made it to the marathon mark.
I only run in these running skirts because they’re cute and comfy: runningskirts.com
Good luck with the training – you’re going to have fun forsure! Hang in there!
Jordana -
Tess says:
I’m late on the uptake, but I’m SO excited for you! It’s going to be one of the most fun things you’ve ever done, I promise. Don’t be surprised if you catch the bug. My advice would be to buy lots of Margarita (oh, yes) Clif Shot Bloks for those long runs. And if you’re feeling splurgy, some lululemon items…because for me, it’s easier to work a little harder when you look good doing it. Good luck! You’re a rockstar!
You go! I am so happy for you!!! You will do great and I can’t wait to hear more.