A Half Marathon Runner in Training

Beachbody Coach DeAnnak2011

On February 15, 2012, I registered to run in the Marine Corps Historic Half; my first half marathon. At the end of that month, I began a 12 week training program to prepare so that I can successfully run the entire course. I'm happy and proud to say that I'm in week nine of training and I feel great.

During the first week, I couldn't see myself running seven miles in week seven, but I'm proud to say I've run those miles and look forward to running 10 miles in week 11. I couldn't imagine myself because I was afraid. I was also thinking too far ahead instead of focusing on the progression miles that would get me there. But I've trusted the program and focused on one week at a time.  

I ran a total of 12 miles in the first week of training and the gradually increased to 20 in week eight. I caught myself laughing after running three miles earlier this week because it was easy. Even though I was capable of running three miles before following the training plan, I never thought of it as easy.

My training log, Ms. O

In the plan, I run at an easy, conversational pace on Mondays and Tuesdays. Thursday runs are the most tiring because the plan requires me to run hard and challenge myself. I have the option to run hills, tempo, intervals or fartlek. Since it will increase my strength and speed without having to run extra miles, I prefer running hills. Fridays are my favorite because I get to rest and recover in preparation to run the long miles on Saturdays.

I'm amazed at what I've been able to do as a marathon trainer. I've stuck to the plan and have gotten stronger one mile at a time. I've also grown to love running so much that, I plan to run the Army Ten Miler in October and have registered to run the Marine Corps Marathon 10K in November. Here's to your health.