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Lead Stories: Wednesday, October 15, 2008

First Marathon Uncertainties

Posted December 7th, 2006 at 7:00 AM by Jim Fortner

Section: Running & Training, Training Tips

Jim Fortner is a weekly, guest contributor to TFS. Make sure to also check out his own personal running and advice site: “Jim2’s Running Page”.

It’s perfectly natural for a runner to have a lot of uncertainty while training for his or her first marathon. There are so many things to question yourself about …

Am I running enough miles? Am I getting enough rest? Should my longest run be 18 or 28 miles….or somewhere in-between? How many 20 mile runs should I do? Should I structure walking breaks into my long runs? Should I do speedwork? If so, what kind and how much? Should I use sports gels and/or powerbars during my long runs? And on….and on!

Different marathon training plans or “experts” will give you conflicting answers. All are right and all are wrong for your specific needs!
Read the rest of this entry »

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Win the mental battle to finish strong at your next race

Posted November 8th, 2006 at 11:00 AM by Trish Monks

Section: Running & Training, Motivation, Training Tips

On Sunday I ran a half marathon – it was hilly, and about 7 miles too far, but I got through it without walking (a key goal of mine when hills are involved) and, as a surprise bonus, got myself a new personal best for that distance.

However, I must admit that it was quite difficult (not enough long training runs – my own fault). At the 8 mile marker, just after a substantial climb and with only 5 miles remaining, I had a bit of a ‘wobble’.

Do you know the kind of scenario that I am talking about? You start doubting yourself: thinking that you’re not going to make it, wanting to stop for a little walk, consider feigning an injury so you can drop . . . that kind of thing. The worst part is that the more you think these negative thoughts, the slower you get and the more likely you are to actually give up. It’s at these crucial moments that I have learned that I really have to give myself a good talking to.

Here are some tricks to get you through the psychological pain barrier: Read the rest of this entry »

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