Active Community: Message List - Training program for half marathon

Re: Training program for half marathon

guest — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:55:29 GMT

I agree with Runner's World they have very good articles and training programs.

I am 52 years old and have lost 60 pounds by running and watching what I eat.

I am currently training for my 4th full marathon and have started a blog to document my progress.

Any and all comments will be appreciated and please check out my sponsors as they make this blog possible!

http://fitatfifty-art.blogspot.com/

Re: Training program for half marathon

guest — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 20:26:47 GMT

I agree about the Runners World programs. I ran a half marathon 18 months ago following the "Your Ultimate Half Marathon Program", and I modified it by blending the intermediate with the advanced program. Last year I trained for a 15k by following virtually the same program though it was a little more the advanced than the intermediate. I got great results both times.

Also, I use the McMillan calculator to determine my training paces. http://www.mcmillanrunning.com/mcmillanrunningcalculator.htm The paces suggested by the Runner's World program are based upon the pace you would like to run the race, and that is not usually a good way to determine your workout paces. Rather, base that upon your current fitness level, and let the calculator provide you with the tempo paces, interval paces, long run paces, etc.

Good luck with your half marathon!

Brian

Re: Training program for half marathon

guest — Sat, 25 Dec 2010 02:14:30 GMT

Thanks for sharing Len!!

Re: Training program for half marathon

guest — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 18:31:12 GMT

What do you think constitutes "junk miles"? Let me put it this way. If you design your training plan so that each run has a purpose - base-building, speed, recovery, long, etc. - then none of them are junk miles. I think the main thing is to listen to your body, don't overdo it or push too hard, take days off when you're tired, and watch your form. If your form starts to suffer, it's time to back off for a few days.

You should be able to use one of the online plans, maybe adapting it to your desired weekly mileage and workouts (speed sessions, etc.). Possible sources include www.halhigdon.com, www.runnersworld.com (SmartCoach), and Active.Com - http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_4/144.shtml.

As for the 8 minute pace, that depends on you and where you're at, training-wise. Has your training the last couple years kept you capable of that kind of pace? If you're not close now, you're not likely to get there by Oct. 31st.

Len

Re: Training program for half marathon

guest — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 18:15:52 GMT

I don't really have any age-related advice, but I do like the training programs you can get through Runner's World. They actually have an article about 1/2 Maras in this month's issue too.

Good Luck!

Training program for half marathon

guest — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 18:11:04 GMT

Hi! I'm starting a training program for a half marathon on Oct 31st. I am not new at running but I would like advice on what kind of training program for someone 55 years old. I read where you should not have any junk miles at this age. I have run 2 marathons and tons of other races but I want to minimize my chances of an injury.

I had a goal pace of an 8 minute mile. I don't know if this is going to work or not. I ran my 2 marathons at a 10 min mile with my last one around 3 years ago this Dec.

I would appreciate any advice!

Thanks!