Unrealistic goal?

lollierogers
lollierogers Posts: 5 Member
edited November 15 in Fitness and Exercise
So I'm nearing the end of c25k (w9d1) and have started to think about what to do once i graduate. Somehow last night i got the idea stuck in my head that i'd do a half marathon by the end of the year. Done a little research on training plans etc. and most suggest 3/4 month preparation.

However, come morning i'm starting to question whether that was slightly ambitious? I've never really run much before c25k but it's got me running 3/4x and about 10 miles a week. Still not managed to reach the full 5k in 30 minutes but figured with being 5'1 i'll never be fast and more miles will slowly improve my pace!

I was thinking i would do it in stages and move onto a 10k plan after graduating - sign up to a race June/July time, then maybe attempt a half around October? Does this sound like a realistic schedule or the totally unreasonable ramblings of a newbie with 'runner's high'?!

Replies

  • tomsarno
    tomsarno Posts: 105 Member
    When you start the 10k trainer I would suggest skipping the first weeks so you are at the point that the 5k left off. I started the 10k program from the beginning at a slightly faster pace. Looking back I think it was a waist of time. I wish I had skipped right to week 7.
  • cheshirecatastrophe
    cheshirecatastrophe Posts: 1,395 Member
    edited March 2015
    I think 5K to a half marathon within a year is a fun goal, as long as you enjoy the process and aren't worried about your finishing time. (That's for your SECOND half marathon. :D) You might be interested in the Galloway method--it involves run/walk intervals, a la C25K, the whole way. It's not for everyone, but the people who use it RAVE about it. :)

    ETA: And you are absolutely right, by the way. In the beginning--for a *long* time, actually--the best way to get faster is simply to run more.
  • TavistockToad
    TavistockToad Posts: 35,719 Member
    A half marathon October/November time is totally doable.

    Just keep in mind the amount of time you'll need to run to train for a half marathon.
  • MeanderingMammal
    MeanderingMammal Posts: 7,866 Member
    Sounds reasonable.

    I did my first HM about 18 months after starting C25K, but could do the distance a good bit before that.

    Just use some structured planning, aim for some intermediate races at 10K to give you an appreciation of the event, and go for it.
  • AllanMisner
    AllanMisner Posts: 4,140 Member
    Yes, you should be able to do it with proper training.
  • loratliff
    loratliff Posts: 283 Member
    Totally reasonable.

    I started C25K in October and am running my first half next weekend. I ran an 11-mile training run last weekend which still sort of shocks me given that before C25K I couldn't run for 30 seconds at a time! I used Hal Higdon's programs both for 10K and my half. I would highly recommend them.
  • loratliff
    loratliff Posts: 283 Member
    Also, I would recommend trying to find a 5K sometime near your C25K graduation date. Races, regardless of distance, are not only addicting, but also great for learning what to eat (and not eat), what to wear, how to pace yourself, etc.
  • lollierogers
    lollierogers Posts: 5 Member
    Thanks for the support, i'm pleased to know that i'm not crazy for trying this!

    I was planning to attend my local Parkrun as my graduation run & for easy runs afterwards. Might end up being a regular :) Was going to use Hal Higdon's novice program as that's the one i keep hearing good things about.

    Anyone know which races (in the south-east) are best for new runners?
  • MeanderingMammal
    MeanderingMammal Posts: 7,866 Member
    lollierogers wrote: »
    Anyone know which races (in the south-east) are best for new runners?

    Assume UK given your reference to Parkrun and SE?

    In that case, there are plenty of options. Take a look at Runners World UK for options.

  • Asher_Ethan
    Asher_Ethan Posts: 2,430 Member
    Yes, you do sound high. Hahaha I love that high. A half marathon by October is completely reasonable. Best of luck!
  • laurab330
    laurab330 Posts: 6 Member
    Just wanted to say congrats on almost finishing C25K! I'm also on week 9 day 1 (did week 8, day 3 today) and am planning to use the Hal Higdon 10k guide next as well :)
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