Running question...how realistic is this??

Yes it's doable. I would say to do something like C25K to get started and then look up a beginner's half marathon training scheme (i.e. http://www.bupa.co.uk/running/training/training-programmes/beginner-half-marathon/ ). Don't start out too fast or you will injure yourself and you should get through to running your race in November at a much better level of running fitness than you will be at now. It does get easier as you run more so expect the first weeks to seem like you've bitten off too much, but you'll be fine and make great progress after a month or two

Good luck!

racheljonel wrote: »

....what it takes to get prepared for something like trail running....

Running on trails?

Anyway, I'd say it's feasible although quite hard work to get there. You'll need to moderate your expectations around time and progress.

I'd suggest starting with a Couch to 10K plan, getting you up to running for an hour. That's about 14-16 weeks long. That's also about 60% of the distance that you'll do on the day.

From there it's reasonably straightforward to use a 10K to half marathon plan to work your way up. A half marathon plan will get you consistently running 10 miles in the remaining time.

swimriderun16 wrote: »

Absolutely! Start off slow and gradually work your way both faster and further. Just make sure to have a good pair of running shoes so you don't hurt yourself (shin splints suck) and warm up, stretch, and cool down every time. About the shoes, I'd recommend going to an actual running store and getting fit for a good shoe that is designed for trail running. They're expensive but your feet will thank you later.

Yes! But seriously, make sure you stretch. And if you start to feel shin splint pain, back off some. I pushed through until I was limping and couldn't go down stairs which led me to a 3 week break in training. Do your stretches and get fitted for running shoes. But it's definitely an attainable goal. Generally you want to increase by a max of 10% each week. Good luck!

Yes 100% doable. Start slow though.

Don't listen to anyone saying its improbable... Your body adapts faster than you think and if your nutrition and rest are in check it's totally possible

You've got this! Like everyone else, do the C25K first and find a little fun run in your area like the color run!

heathbilly wrote: »

racheljonel wrote: »

Is it a realistic goal to go from essentially not running (I can run a mile without stopping, but that is it) to doing a 10 mile trail race in November? November sounds so far away but I'm not sure what it takes to get prepared for something like trail running, and such a long distance.

Yes , yes , and yes. I started running in October, just 1 mile in 20 minutes. By Feb I ran 14 miles at a 9:30 pace.

Similar story to yours. I could barely run 30 seconds without stopping when I started C25K in October. Running my first half marathon this weekend, have run two 5Ks under 30 minutes, and up to 11 miles on my training runs.

So: YES! Go slow, and you can do it.

It's definitely doable. Definitely follow a plan to resist trying to do too much too soon. Injury can happen easily from over training.

Definitely find out the terrain the trail run is on. I've done trail runs that were fairly flat and then I've done trail runs up and down the side of a ski resort mountain. Train on the type of footing and elevation change you will be racing on.

Don't give up and keep on going. Commit to doing the race and if you don't get as far as you'd like by November I say do it anyways. There is never shame in walking a good bit

racheljonel wrote: »

Will it be ok to build endurance on a treadmill at first? That's where I do most of my running now.

Boring as hel, and it won't get you ready for trail running. It's low quality base mileage, but it'll do if you can't go out into the real.

racheljonel wrote: »

I figured as much....I can get out and I will just have to do that. Thanks!

For me, trail running is interesting. It's more relaxed, the variety in surface and elevations makes a huge difference to how the run feels and I can see plenty of different things.

Take time, enjoy it.

I went from couch to half marathon in 6 months, so you have plenty of time, especially since you're already running a little bit. Don't worry about the treadmill usage. Set the incline to 1.0 or 1.5 (to simulate wind resistance). My Tuesdays and Thursdays are on the treadmill because I have to get up early to get my miles, but I do my long runs outside on Saturdays. Outside miles are better, but not mandatory. Also, train with a heart rate monitor - it will help you compare your indoor running with your outside running. I've seen lots of people start on treadmills get totally winded outdoors because they don't know how hard they are running. The HRM will tell you.