Runners! My first race is coming up in 6 weeks! Should I go for the 10k or half marathon?!
Replies
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MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
I just leaked a little here and there. What with sweating and such, no one noticed.2 -
First even if you were consistently running 10 miles in your own I would not recommend a half marathon for a first race. It's obvious you have not put a lot of research into this.
Second A DNF is one of the worst feelings in the world. Be prepared to finish every race you start.
Third runners as a group tend to be very supportive and inclusive. Competition comes from beating your goal time or PRing. Running keeps you humble, people older and fatter than you will be faster than you.
Fourth I'm in thirties and have been racing since my mid twenties. It is very hard to place in my demographic because the fields tend to be huge. If I let my ability to place determine my motivation to race I would not run that many races.
Fifth injury rehab is expensive and painful and frustrating.
The smarter better choice is the 10k, you may need to learn the hard way.
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TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
We are getting a little cruel? It is entirely possible that blueeyez939 really has no clue about the subject and truly feels that she can "gut out" a Half Marathon extrapolating her 5/6 mile times . She has been advised, in no uncertain terms, that this is, if not impossible, highly unlikely. She came here asking for advise, naively believing that running a Half Marathon is no more difficult than running 5 or 6 miles only longer. She should have been dissuaded of that belief by now. If she came here looking for encouragement, she found out that that was misplaced. A Half Marathon is a very long way to run.
I don't think that blueeyez939 is disrespecting us, the race or the distance. I have a feeling that she truly does not know how far it really is and what effort is needed to complete it, much less have a winning/competing time.
blueeyez939, go out and run ten miles, Report back on how it went. Don't kill yourself in the effort, walk if necessary. Bring water and perhaps a gel packet or two. Take your cell phone to cell for a ride if needed. Don't go out alone without telling someone your route. Stick to that route. Start you first mile slowly, then pick up your pace to the rate you think will satisfy your need to beat someone else. In my first Half Marathon the women's division was won with a 6:52 minute mile pace (1:30:03) This is a good place to start, as a test run. ;-) Hang on to the pace for as long as possible. Let us know how far you went. Remember 10K is less than half way home on a Half Marathon. After 10 miles you still have 5K to go.
Come back and tell us how that 10 mile run went.
Everyone else is getting cruel so you suggest OP tries 10 miles at 6:52 pace.... :laugh:
TBH her second post doesn't show she has taken any notice of the advice of the seasoned runners here on MFP so kitteh gifs aren't going to be far away when people refuse point blank to listen to advice...
Yeah, she said she wants to win. Figured she'd get to the first two or three miles and have an epiphany. Better on a training run. I told her to let others know her route and to bring her cell phone. ;-)
Our marathon in March is a duel whole (Boston Qualifier) and a half. If you want to divert from the whole to the half they would still time and place you..
Wonder if the half has a divert to 5K? Dunno...
Don't you mean when OP decides to do the full... it's only a marathon after all!1 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL0 -
In my first Half Marathon the women's division was won with a 6:52 minute mile pace (1:30:03) This is a good place to start, as a test run. ;-) Hang on to the pace for as long as possible. Let us know how far you went. Remember 10K is less than half way home on a Half Marathon. After 10 miles you still have 5K to go.
Come back and tell us how that 10 mile run went.
If you want to win, you have to be able to beat everyone. In my last local half, the fastest woman finished in 70:21 minutes. That's 5:22 pace...0 -
TavistockToad wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
We are getting a little cruel? It is entirely possible that blueeyez939 really has no clue about the subject and truly feels that she can "gut out" a Half Marathon extrapolating her 5/6 mile times . She has been advised, in no uncertain terms, that this is, if not impossible, highly unlikely. She came here asking for advise, naively believing that running a Half Marathon is no more difficult than running 5 or 6 miles only longer. She should have been dissuaded of that belief by now. If she came here looking for encouragement, she found out that that was misplaced. A Half Marathon is a very long way to run.
I don't think that blueeyez939 is disrespecting us, the race or the distance. I have a feeling that she truly does not know how far it really is and what effort is needed to complete it, much less have a winning/competing time.
blueeyez939, go out and run ten miles, Report back on how it went. Don't kill yourself in the effort, walk if necessary. Bring water and perhaps a gel packet or two. Take your cell phone to cell for a ride if needed. Don't go out alone without telling someone your route. Stick to that route. Start you first mile slowly, then pick up your pace to the rate you think will satisfy your need to beat someone else. In my first Half Marathon the women's division was won with a 6:52 minute mile pace (1:30:03) This is a good place to start, as a test run. ;-) Hang on to the pace for as long as possible. Let us know how far you went. Remember 10K is less than half way home on a Half Marathon. After 10 miles you still have 5K to go.
Come back and tell us how that 10 mile run went.
Everyone else is getting cruel so you suggest OP tries 10 miles at 6:52 pace.... :laugh:
TBH her second post doesn't show she has taken any notice of the advice of the seasoned runners here on MFP so kitteh gifs aren't going to be far away when people refuse point blank to listen to advice...
Yeah, she said she wants to win. Figured she'd get to the first two or three miles and have an epiphany. Better on a training run. I told her to let others know her route and to bring her cell phone. ;-)
Our marathon in March is a duel whole (Boston Qualifier) and a half. If you want to divert from the whole to the half they would still time and place you..
Wonder if the half has a divert to 5K? Dunno...
Don't you mean when OP decides to do the full... it's only a marathon after all!
I should have made it clearer!0 -
scorpio516 wrote: »In my first Half Marathon the women's division was won with a 6:52 minute mile pace (1:30:03) This is a good place to start, as a test run. ;-) Hang on to the pace for as long as possible. Let us know how far you went. Remember 10K is less than half way home on a Half Marathon. After 10 miles you still have 5K to go.
Come back and tell us how that 10 mile run went.
If you want to win, you have to be able to beat everyone. In my last local half, the fastest woman finished in 70:21 minutes. That's 5:22 pace...
Might depend on the course and its hills, no? I was pacing her on a hilly course. If its flat, you're right, 6:52 won't be fast enough. ;- )0 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
And don't forget your SheWee!
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MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
That is funny.
Hey I have teenagers who have to learn the hard way.
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MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
We have LGBT friendly trees. Nobody cares.2 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
We have LGBT friendly trees. Nobody cares.
I am both laughing and speechless at the same time...that's rare.. I mean for me to be speechless..
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MeanderingMammal wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
We have LGBT friendly trees. Nobody cares.
I am both laughing and speechless at the same time...that's rare.. I mean for me to be speechless..
If you're going to pee in the forest, woman, you need one of these! It's the great equalizer, lol.1 -
Definitely do the 10k. I've done a half marathon I didn't train properly for, I got hurt and couldn't run for months afterwards.0
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I think you should skip both and just do a full marathon. You got this.0
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MeanderingMammal wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
We have LGBT friendly trees. Nobody cares.
I am both laughing and speechless at the same time...that's rare.. I mean for me to be speechless..
If you're going to pee in the forest, woman, you need one of these! It's the great equalizer, lol.
Doesn't it have potential to be painful if used incorrectly like when used in a quick hurry, like running races, I am in it to win it.. LOL0 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
I'm a girl who runs trails, and squatting by a tree works really well when nature calls!! (Just hope and pray it's only #1 and not #2!!)
Besides, helping with hills and improving your derriere, it's another reason to do your squats!! LOL!! 0 -
BeeerRunner wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
I'm a girl who runs trails, and squatting by a tree works really well when nature calls!! (Just hope and pray it's only #1 and not #2!!) Besides, helping with hills and improving your derriere, it's another reason to do your squats!! LOL!!
I have squatted behind a bushes and trees quite a few times on longer training runs that take me off road. I know just where to get to on that 9th or 10th mile far far from home..
Now doing this during a race that's what fun..
1 -
TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
clearly your an amateur if you can't whip it out and pee while you're running.2 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
try the thinx panties- less bulk than depends. LOL (I kid I kid)
Although all jokes aside- I use them for my lifting- lifting + big lifts + belt = piddle.
either pee
use pads
or now I use thinx.
MUCH less embarrassing- and MUCH more comfortable.2 -
TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
clearly your an amateur if you can't whip it out and pee while you're running.
No, but I am a girl, so there's nowt to whip out... :laugh:1 -
TavistockToad wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
clearly your an amateur if you can't whip it out and pee while you're running.
No, but I am a girl, so there's nowt to whip out... :laugh:
where's your shewee thing!!! whip that out!!!
LMAO1 -
To be fair, she doesn't want to win the whole race, she just wants not to lose, and to make that happen, she plans to enter whichever race has the most runners who are likely to be less good at running than her. It's a solid strategy. Lots of people enter half marathons under-prepared and have a painful, miserable time - if it's a big enough race there's bound to be plenty who can't even run 5 miles. So she'll be ahead of all them. Personally I'd find it more rewarding to beat people who were difficult to beat, but you can't be too picky if you've only got 3 months worth of training behind you.3
-
MeanderingMammal wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
We have LGBT friendly trees. Nobody cares.
I am both laughing and speechless at the same time...that's rare.. I mean for me to be speechless..
If you're going to pee in the forest, woman, you need one of these! It's the great equalizer, lol.
Doesn't it have potential to be painful if used incorrectly like when used in a quick hurry, like running races, I am in it to win it.. LOL
The one I have is soft silicone so it's safe, lol...I've never used it without stopping first though I did use it on plenty of barren, treeless mountaintops in the Andes though and looked super suave. 2 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
try the thinx panties- less bulk than depends. LOL (I kid I kid)
Although all jokes aside- I use them for my lifting- lifting + big lifts + belt = piddle.
either pee
use pads
or now I use thinx.
MUCH less embarrassing- and MUCH more comfortable.
This is actually good sound advice.. I wear biker type shorts so the thinner the better.MeanderingMammal wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »blueeyez939 wrote: »Scared off, to say the least..... Lol I understand that many of you don't understand my logic, think that I have no common sense, and think I'm racing for the wrong reasons, and that's fine..... I am racing for my own set of reasons, one of which is the satisfaction of being better than someone else at something. Is that not the heart of just about all true competitors to begin with? I understand a passion for what you do is the first key, but passion alone won't get you first place, passion plus will power does though. I don't know, I'm certainly not here to get anyone fired up or on a rant. But I'm a competitive person, when I am participating is something where there is a winner and a looser, I prefer to be the winner lol I don't see anything wrong with that. Not saying there is "something wrong" with being last either, it's just not for me, I refuse to be last at anything that is a reflection of my effort. Maybe I have never ran a race before, but I have participated is sports for years and I know the satisfaction of winning and the discouragement of getting your butt whooped... It's all part of the game, no matter what your game. And I agree, even in defeat you have to come out ready to do better next time. But, Im very strong willed and enjoy pushing myself, so I didn't think it was unreasonable to think I would be better off walk/running the whole half marathon and likely still end up getting a better position then exhausting myself to be lucky if I'm in the last 10% of the 10k. But, everyone sees things differently and I appreciate everyone telling me your honest thoughts
So your best bet then is to get to the front of the pack at the start line. You want to make sure you clear the crowding as quickly as possible. Most HMs are best handled on a slight negative split, so aim for an eight minute mile initially, and pick up the pace after the seven mile point.
It's easy to get caught up in slower movers at aid stations, so avoid stopping and don't take on any water or fuel. Slowing down to eat or drink disrupts your pace.
Have fun.
Make sure you do not have to pee.. stopping for that..is a time killer.
I had to pee for the last 5 miles of my first HM.... but all the toilet stops had MASSIVE queues so I wasn't having that!
I did too at mile 7.. can't believe it, I thought I was running on empty, so I thought..
The toilets were nasty and I was still trying to run while going.. it was a terrible experience.
Have to say that's one of the best things about trail races. Find a convenient tree...
Yeah I thought a dude would come on and say how easy it was for them!
Maybe I should wear depends this coming year... LOL
We have LGBT friendly trees. Nobody cares.
I am both laughing and speechless at the same time...that's rare.. I mean for me to be speechless..
If you're going to pee in the forest, woman, you need one of these! It's the great equalizer, lol.
Doesn't it have potential to be painful if used incorrectly like when used in a quick hurry, like running races, I am in it to win it.. LOL
The one I have is soft silicone so it's safe, lol...I've never used it without stopping first though I did use it on plenty of barren, treeless mountaintops in the Andes though and looked super suave.
Looking suave is always the most important thing when it comes indoors or outdoors! LOL0 -
To be fair, she doesn't want to win the whole race, she just wants not to lose, and to make that happen, she plans to enter whichever race has the most runners who are likely to be less good at running than her. It's a solid strategy. Lots of people enter half marathons under-prepared and have a painful, miserable time - if it's a big enough race there's bound to be plenty who can't even run 5 miles. So she'll be ahead of all them. Personally I'd find it more rewarding to beat people who were difficult to beat, but you can't be too picky if you've only got 3 months worth of training behind you.
I think you missed OP's second post on the thread.0 -
Seems odd to me to choose your pond so that you can appear to be a bigger fish. On an absolute scale you are the same size fish regardless of who you compare yourself to. You've only been running for 2 months!
You can put your times into the calculator below and see how you compare on a local/regional/national/world class level.
http://www.heartbreakhill.org/age_graded.htm
2 -
teetertatertango wrote: »Seems odd to me to choose your pond so that you can appear to be a bigger fish. On an absolute scale you are the same size fish regardless of who you compare yourself to. You've only been running for 2 months!
You can put your times into the calculator below and see how you compare on a local/regional/national/world class level.
http://www.heartbreakhill.org/age_graded.htm
Cool! I just plugged in my 20:28 for a 5k at age 31 and it gave me a 25:55 for my current age of 60. Something to shoot for! Thanks much!1 -
To be fair, she doesn't want to win the whole race, she just wants not to lose, and to make that happen, she plans to enter whichever race has the most runners who are likely to be less good at running than her. It's a solid strategy. Lots of people enter half marathons under-prepared and have a painful, miserable time - if it's a big enough race there's bound to be plenty who can't even run 5 miles. So she'll be ahead of all them. Personally I'd find it more rewarding to beat people who were difficult to beat, but you can't be too picky if you've only got 3 months worth of training behind you.
I think you missed OP's second post on the thread.
Think she's using the special 'not coming last' definition of '...that makes me a WINNER!!!'0 -
For OP. It doesn't mean you won't come last in a 13 mile race as the distance is so far, and you'll be much slower than your 5 mile pace by the end. It depends on the other entrants. With 5 miles under your belt, you could run 10K and set your 10k race time to beat for the next time. Nobody else's race matters, when you're learning how to do something. We're all out there, just doing the best we can on any given day.
Do what you want to do, but just remember that if you attempt to run it, you could end up with stress fracture, have your toe nails go black and fall off, or risk not finishing if you try it all at your current 5 mile time. On the other hand, you could come back and tell us it was all fine and you walked 9 miles or are a natural born runner, gifted and blessed with steel bones. You could tell us anything actually and we wouldn't know the truth. If your goal is to finish, you might be able to do it, but that doesn't mean it's sensible.1 -
I actually think she could be fine - she'd have a pretty difficult and miserable race, probably, but if she can do 5 miles now and she's got 6 weeks, she can practise running slower, do three or four runs a week for 5 weeks (3 miles, 5 miles, 3 miles, 7 miles) building to a 'long' run of maybe 8 or 9 miles, and as long as she moderates her pace enough (i.e. run SLOW), she'd get round, probably without actually injuring herself. She might do some walking, but she'd be better prepared than some of the other people there.
I still agree with everyone else that it's a bit pointless though. The programme I've outlined above is probably exactly the same as I think she should do if she enters the 10k, which would be a much better experience and which she'd manage to run all the way (a better definition of WINNER if it doesn't mean actually winning).0
This discussion has been closed.
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