running advice

freesej

I am training for my first half marathon and am generally not a runner. I was in great shape as a dancer for years. I am very strong but the running is a different type of challenge that i have not totally adjusted to mentally of physically yet. I would love any advice out there for making this change. or from people who have done these races before.

SueInAz

I just finished my second half marathon this past Sunday. If your goal is just to finish it, you really have very little to worry about. Most half marathon courses are open for 4 hours which is long enough to WALK the 13.1 miles at a 3.25 MPH pace. If you're looking to be able to actually run the whole distance (I don't so I don't necessarily understand that thinking) you'll want to start a training plan that slowly increases the mileage you're running over time. Actually, you'll want to do this even if you run and walk in intervals. There are lots of training plans available out there, you just need to do a little searching to find one that suits you. The most important part, though, is to not try to run too far too soon and only run every other day. You need to give your body time to get used to this new activity and prevent injury.

yesthistime

Running groups on MFP:

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/47-happy-feet-runners-unite
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/1788-half-marathon-training-group
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/94-long-distance-runners
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/235-marathon-runners-past-present-future
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/4266-runners-r-us

fastbelly

Have a look at the training tools on runner's world magazine online. You can get a training plan done on the website for free based on your times and distances.

Shoot me a message if you have any questions when you get there.

Good luck.