Hump Day Half Check-in

[Deleted]

I know a bunch of us ran our races this past weekend but we have PLENTY of halfers still training!
Bonus points - if you've done your half recently, post 2 pieces of advice for our fellow runners!

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? 

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?

[boston340]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?
Indy Women's Half Marathon on June 7 and Grand Lake Marathon/Half on September 27 (this is a rural Ohio race, anyone want to run with me???)  This will be half marathon #2 and 3 for me. My last half marathon was in 2002.  

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?
I am NOT the person to ask this.  When I was a senior in high school I decided I wanted to run a marathon for graduation and only had like 4 months of running under my belt.  Don't do that, kids.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?
I like to eat snacks on my long runs and when I do my long runs on the treadmill at the Y (on crappy weather days) I get a lot of weird looks as I'm pounding out miles and gobbling down M&Ms at the same time.

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?
14 miles - I have three of them scheduled before my race.  

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?
I made the big switch from Brooks to Asics recently after running in Brooks for 10 years.  I wanted a neutral+ shoe and couldn't find an option in Brooks.  Right now I'm in Asics Cumulus 15 and also just ordered Adidas Supernova for kicks (they were on clearance at Running Warehouse and it was worth $60 to me to try them).

Yes, I think they are working.  Though I wonder if some of my knee problems are due to being in a neutral shoe (which is what I switched to a neutral+ shoe).

[skwcm80]

I know a bunch of us ran our races this past weekend but we have PLENTY of halfers still training!
Bonus points - if you've done your half recently, post 2 pieces of advice for our fellow runners!

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?
I'm also doing Ragnar Chicago with @vtcupcake and enfuego23.

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?
Take your time. Don't do too much too soon. I tried running twice before I did couch to 5k, and both times I gave up because I'd try to run 2 miles @ 10 minute mile pace right out the gate. 

I think a new runner could get up half marathon distances in about 6 months assuming no major health issues.  It took me about 9 months because I took a 3 month break from training before starting to train for a half. 

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?
Hmm. Once this winter I was having one of those long runs where my legs just didnt want to turn over, until my friend and I decided to get pancakes when we were done. I picked up my pace enough that she had to tell me to slow down.  Pancakes, yum.

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?
15 miles

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?
Saucony guide 7, I love them. It's almost time for a new pair. 

[boston340]

@vtcupcake that deer story is incredible! I have NO idea what I would have done in that situation. What a fun story!

[lauren170]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?

Kiawah half 12/13 and Key West half 1/18

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?

I hope it can be done in 8 months because that's what I've got.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?

I was going so slow people thought I was walking?

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?

It will likely be 11 or 12.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?

I need to get to a running store ASAP. I like running short distances in my Innov8s but I know that's not good for longer distances.

[greysgirl]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?
Run to Remember Half Marathon 5/25 Boston, First half

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them? 9 months or so for me, it can probably be done faster though

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far? I punched myself in the face during a sprint once, whoops

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? It's been 12.75, will try to do 13 on Saturday

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Brooks, some baby toe pain recently

Read more: pandce.proboards.com/thread/322434/hump-day-half-check#ixzz312V3K0Qi

[Deleted]

May 7, 2014 9:15:09 GMT -5 lauren170 said:

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?

I need to get to a running store ASAP. I like running short distances in my Innov8s but I know that's not good for longer distances.

I'm debating on a pair of these for CrossFit....

[greysgirl]

May 7, 2014 9:25:37 GMT -5 @vtcupcake said:

May 7, 2014 9:18:09 GMT -5 greysgirl said:

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Brooks, some baby toe pain recently

Read more: pandce.proboards.com/thread/322434/hump-day-half-check#ixzz312V3K0Qi

Have you tried tying your laces a little looser, or trying a different style of tying? I find that on longer distances that my toebox will swell quite a bit and I have to compensate for that in how the shoes are on my feet.

I've tried tying them a little looser, but I will play around a little more. Thank you for tip  

[Deleted]

May 7, 2014 9:25:37 GMT -5 @vtcupcake said:

May 7, 2014 9:18:09 GMT -5 greysgirl said:

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Brooks, some baby toe pain recently

Read more: pandce.proboards.com/thread/322434/hump-day-half-check#ixzz312V3K0Qi

Have you tried tying your laces a little looser, or trying a different style of tying? I find that on longer distances that my toebox will swell quite a bit and I have to compensate for that in how the shoes are on my feet.

Could also be a size thing. .5-1 size bigger in running shoes is pretty common. I have to run in a 7, I usually wear a 6!

[lauren170]

May 7, 2014 9:24:14 GMT -5 @sessalee said:

May 7, 2014 9:15:09 GMT -5 lauren170 said:

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?

I need to get to a running store ASAP. I like running short distances in my Innov8s but I know that's not good for longer distances.

I'm debating on a pair of these for CrossFit....

Dooo it! They make me feel so light and they're great for things like squatting so you can really feel the weight in your heels.

[CallingAllAngels]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon? Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon (10.2014) - third, Thunder Road Half Marathon (11.2014) - fourth, Kiawah Island Half Marathon (12.2014) - fifth.  This is crazy pants. 

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?  I did my first half just over a year after starting C25K and I think that was the right amount of time.  Trust your training and stick with your plan!

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?  One of the guys in my running group crapped his pants at the Shamrock Half Marathon.  He was super-proud and told everyone about it. 

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?  I've done 12 in the past.  I may try to do 15 in the Fall. 

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Mizuno Wave Inspire 9.  They need to be replaced but I can't decide if I need to do a new gait analysis or if I should just order the 10s online.  I may need a half size larger. 

[cinco]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?
Western MD Half, Sept. 6th; Freedom's Run Half, early Oct. Would be 17 and 18, but no guarantees that I won't throw another one in there somewhere

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them? You don't want advice from me. I went straight from a 5k to a marathon.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?
I've already mentioned the dumpster diving in the cemetery trash can for my water and the key that fell down my pants mid race. Awkward. Funniest probably goes to when the tower of foam rollers fell over at the gym ONTO my treadmill. I hopped over one and then jumped onto the top of the treadmill while screeching for all to hear. I will never use that particular treadmill again, lol.

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? My plan calls for 16, but I will probably go a little higher b/c of marathon training

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?
Mizuno Wave Inspires 10. Yep. I've been in them for at least 5 years, maybe more.

[andrealynn]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon? Estes Park Half, June 22, Estes Park, CO. It will be my 4th. ETA: I haven't actually registered for this  yet. I should probably get on that...

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?
I would say 18 weeks, if they were doing a C25k-bridge to 10k-increase to half type progression. I think there are probably plans that would get them there faster. My advice would be to get fitted for shoes, find ways to keep themselves accountable for training, and have fun!

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far? I'm sad, but I can't think of anything funny that has happened. My usual running buddy is injured, so I am sort of floundering around on my own.

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? 12 miles on the plan I am using this time. Before I have done plans that max out at 10, and I don't think it was enough of a base for the performance I want.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Asics GT something or others. They are getting replaced this week. I think I have about 500 miles in them.

[G22]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon? Buffalo Jump half 5/18 - I think its my 5th half?

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them? That's a tough question. There are a lot of factors that go into getting a person from running zero miles to 13 and its different for everyone.

I would advise them to take it slow in the beginning, listen to their body, and focus on distance over speed. Speed comes with times and its not good to push your body too fast too soon. Don't get frustrated, it sucks for everyone in the beginning. Also if running isn't naturally fun for you, find a way to make to fun so it will be easier to get out the door. Get some fun new running clothes/gear, run with your dog or a friend, find a pretty path, etc.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far? I run with my 3 dogs a lot. I usually take them one at a time and get more mileage in that way. I have a few routes I always take through the neighborhood and now that its nicer weather out, people are out doing work in their yards. So when I run by someone 3 times, each time with a different dog I occasionally get questions/comments. This week I was told I was "ambitious" and asked if I ran dogs for a fee or just had a lot of dogs. LOL

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? For a half, normally 13, but since my end goal is a marathon in a month, I'll put in an 18-miler before my half.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Nike Lunarglide 4s. I love them and they got me through my fall marathon. I waited to late to snatch up more pairs though, so I'm upgrading to the 5s here soon.

[lb2006]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?
Charity Chase Half, NC - June 1st.  It's my 12th half

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?
well, i went from non-runner to runner over time and eased into racing.  I would say find something that makes you excited (destination race, fun run with friends, etc) and make that your goal - whether it be this year, in 5 years, etc  and work towards it.  Having an end goal is key.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?
On my long run last weekend, i ran in a neighborhood where my (follow with me) neighbor's parents live.  I was attending the neighbor's little girl's 1st birthday party in about two hours and saw the birthday girl's grandfather.  I stopped and talked with him, re-introducing myself.  At the party, he introduces himself to me and i said, "Oh, we've met!" and he said, "Really, when?"   Ummmmm - about two hours ago :?  He said, "oh wow - you look really different" 

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?
12

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?
Brooks GTS 14s - yes!!

[cinco]

May 7, 2014 9:15:09 GMT -5 lauren170 said:

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?

Kiawah half 12/13 and Key West half 1/18

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?

I hope it can be done in 8 months because that's what I've got.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?

I was going so slow people thought I was walking?

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?

It will likely be 11 or 12.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?

I need to get to a running store ASAP. I like running short distances in my Innov8s but I know that's not good for longer distances.

The dental hygienist was talking about how great the Key West Half is today. I thought of you! Now it has been added to my bucket list.

[lauren170]

May 7, 2014 13:00:10 GMT -5 cinco said:

May 7, 2014 9:15:09 GMT -5 lauren170 said:

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?

Kiawah half 12/13 and Key West half 1/18

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?

I hope it can be done in 8 months because that's what I've got.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?

I was going so slow people thought I was walking?

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?

It will likely be 11 or 12.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?

I need to get to a running store ASAP. I like running short distances in my Innov8s but I know that's not good for longer distances.

The dental hygienist was talking about how great the Key West Half is today. I thought of you! Now it has been added to my bucket list.

It's flat or so I read online

[lb2006]

May 7, 2014 13:04:48 GMT -5 lauren170 said:

May 7, 2014 13:00:10 GMT -5 cinco said:

The dental hygienist was talking about how great the Key West Half is today. I thought of you! Now it has been added to my bucket list.

It's flat or so I read online

Plus - you can go to Willie T's for mojitos afterwards

[Susie]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?  Patriot Half, 6/14, Massachusetts.  My 2nd HIM.

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?  I would suggest to them to alternate training cycles - do a cycle of building distance, then a cycle of building speed at that distance.  Lather, rinse, repeat for 5k, 10k, and then move up to 13.1.  

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?  I don't think I have anything particularly funny.  I do have a friend who curses colorfully and out loud anytime we ride up any significant grade, and that is funny to hear.  She is normally so quiet.

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? Run-only?  So far?  On Sunday I did 9.17, part of which was a balls-out PR 5k averaging 8:02 m/m.  Monday (ok, and Tuesday a little) I paid for that. 

My longest run of the plan, I think, will be on Memorial Day weekend.  One of the workouts is a 1 hr bike + 2 hr run.  I should get 12 or so miles in then.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?  Asics Nimbus 14s.  Yes; they are my 2nd pair of them.

[bluedaisyus]

Sooooo...I guess I can join in here now that my quarter marathon is done and I'm going to be gearing up for half training, right?

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon? Cbus half on 10/19. My first!

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them? Um...I don't know. I started running about a year ago (man, has it really only been a year? But it has, I just checked and my goal race from my very first training group was in August of last year, crazy!), so I took my time and did some 5k races to duild up my endurance before going to higher mileage. I definitely think that was the right decision for me.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far? I'm not sure. I don't think I've had anything super funny happen to me yet. A funny-but-not-funny that happened to a friend of mine at the quarter marathon last weekend: somehow she missed the turnoff where the quarter course split from the half. Guess which one she was supposed to be running and which one she ended up on?

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? 6 miles so far. I've only done more than that once so far, at my race last weekend.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Brooks Ravenna 4. They're working much better than what I was in last. I need to get another pair to start rotating in but I think they're on to the 5s now so I have to see if those will still be good for me or if I want to find another pair of the 4s or what.

[hurricanedrunk]

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon? - Cellcom 5/18 Green Bay WI - 2nd half

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?
Start with shorter distance races, get a feel for it and build from there. From when I started running to when I did my first half was about 9 months and it felt like the right amount of time. Find the right shoes and get some fun gear.

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far? I run with my two dogs a couple times a week. They are both boys so they stop and pee on EVERYTHING. About once a month one of them will get their head pissed on by the other. I try to keep them apart but they both want to sniff and pee on the same thing! It's really funny to me for some reason and adds up to a lot of doggy head washes.

4. What's your highest mileage run during training? 12 miles - Taking place this Saturday.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working? Brooks Adrenaline (whatever the latest # is) -yes I really like them. As soon as they go on sale I will be buying more. I like to have two pairs to rotate and bought another from Asics GT 3000? and my left toes hate them after 4 miles. Which sucks because I love the colors.

[2doxies]

May 7, 2014 7:46:35 GMT -5 @sessalee said:

1. Race stats, date, location, is it your first/fifth/last half marathon?  Wild Half Marathon in Wildwood, NJ on 5/18 (yikes!!) will be my first ever and the Bird-in-Hand Half on 9/6 will be my second.

2. If a non-runner started C25k tomorrow, how long would you think it would take them to get up to the half marathon distances (safely) and what advice would you give them?  I'm sure it could be done in less, but I think I needed a year to build up my confidence.  The mental game has been big for me as I've built up to longer races and training runs.  Personally, it took me a while to learn to run my race regardless of what the people around me were doing. 

3. What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while running this year so far?  I sharted during a long run and had to walk 1.5 miles home  :?  I took a Gu with caffeine for the first time and it was no bueno.

4. What's your highest mileage run during training?  It'll be 11 miles for this first half, I'd like to get up higher for the next.

5. What shoes are you currently running in? Are they working?  Brooks Ravenna for the past 3 years and they've been working.  My toes are getting a little more sore and calloused lately but I think it's just from the increase in mileage.  I'm wearing a size 11 after having the second kid and I'm not trying to go up any higher than that.