Lately, my running has been focused on my clients. I’ve made sure to get in my long runs for my half marathon, but other than that, my runs have been a jumble of paces, based on what my small group and individual clients need. I rarely push myself at *my* level. Generally speaking, I’m ok with that.
My goal for this spring (before I got sucked in by my friends and signed up for National) was just to get my mileage back up and not hurt myself. Running with clients has been wonderful for that. A lot of my runs are actually done at the speed that McMillan suggests, which means I’m actually running at recovery pace for my recovery runs. This is all good. In addition, I’ve been able to get up in the 30s for mileage each week without feeling like I’m wearing myself down as I used to during marathon training.
The problem? I have no idea what pace I’m *capable* of holding for 13.1 miles. And apparently I gave them a really conservative estimate ’cause I’m way the hell back in the corrals. I expect my first two miles to be REALLY slow as I try to work my way forward and out of the crowd. I know the combination of the crowds and my current speed mean I won’t PR. I would, however, like to avoid a personal worst.
The plan? Run easy for the first half and then start picking it up for the second half and see what I can crank out. If you’ve got other suggestions, I’d love to hear them!
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Enjoy yourself! This is what coaching is when you are actually spending time with your runners. I don't think it was a coincidence that my first marathon after giving up coaching was a PR.
Happy St. Patricks Day! I think enjoying yourself is a brilliant idea. I am sure you'll have a wonderful 13.1!
I think it's a good plan… i'm all for it.
that is EXACTLY what i would suggest doing. start slow and pick it up if you're feeling strong. hopefully we can spot each other again so i can wish you luck!
I am in the back too. The last one! I knew I put a slow time and I know I am slow compared to so many others, but was not happy to find out I would be starting LAST!
Yup, I think I'm going to be following your same plan!Happy St. Patrick's Day, hopefully I'll see you @ the expo or at the race!
Slow start = fast finish! Sounds like a good plan. HAVE FUN!
I say you start out fast, pick it up in the middle, then sprint to the finish.
Sometimes the goal is to avoid a PW. Been there, done that. However, I think you are going to surprise yourself this time.
ok first your poor socks, i hope they get a very nice send off after all the good they have done.I know exactly what you mean about runs that are feeling great but suddenly seem to be a little out of focus. It's just another phase in your journey and I'm sure it will work out!
Thats a great plan, and the course is a perfect one for doing that. The hill crests around the 8 mile marker and its all speedy downhill from there.
If you're a long way back at the start you'll have to go out conservatively. It's a good plan!
I'm sure you'll have a great HM, but enjoying yourself is probably the best goal you could have for the race!
I actually have never attempted to have a "goal" for any race, except to finish 😉 I cant offer a whole lot of advice here!
I'm liking your plan…some restraint early with a build in speed as you move along. Have a great time!
Looking forward to hearing how you did today!