Hal Higdon program "substitutions"

Cheeta_HH

I'm just about half way through the Hal Higdon intermediate 15K plan. I am a creature of habit, so I really do like the structure, but I miss some of my classes at the gym (Zumba, Tae Bo, and Pilates). I don't have the energy to do these in addition to the running plan.

Do you think it would make much difference to substitute one of my shorter runs with a 60 minute class?

I'm comfortable with the weekly mileage so far, and my speed has improved. I don't want to lose any of my progress (which I'm afraid will happen if I don't do everything according to plan), but I want to change things up a bit.

Have any of you altered the plan and run less than the suggested weekly mileage? Would you recommend that i just hold off on the classes until I finish my race in early November?

I'm probably overthinking this, huh? : )

bunchesonothing

I see no troubles with making minor modifications to the program. Hell, I see no troubles with making major modifications if you are sure of what you're doing. I'd keep cut back weeks, no more than 10% additional mileage each week, etc... especially if you like that about the program. I find those things beneficial, personally.

I've been known to make changes to the Higdon programs with no ill effects.

SkateboardFi

I've been known to make changes to the Higdon programs with no ill effects.

me too! go for it!

Dizzle_65

I'm currently using Hal Higdon as a template for my Marathon. He recommends three euns in the week and then the long run at the weekend. I often only manage two durinmg the week but never skimp on the Long Run.

Long Run is key and I think HH even refers to mixing it up as long as you don't lose the weekend LR.

FoxyMcDeadlift

A lot of HH plans recommend a day of cross training anyway, with the exception of the advanced programmes i thought? Training plans are never gospel, they should always be flexible

FrenchMob

That is certainly acceptable, might even be beneficial to help fight off injury.