I have been working on training to run a 5k. I can now do a 5k on the treadmill. I can run over a mile not on the treadmill. However, I'm having problems with the progression. I NEED a plan, and am having trouble designing one on my own.
This book provides a detailed plan. It also trains me to run far further than I had originally planned. Also, I have found that there are no marathons in the area that correspond to when I would be ready to run one if I started training now (16 weeks of official training, and at least 3 weeks of recommended pre-training).
With all that in mind...I still like the idea of doing the program. It gives me a goal, and a detailed plan to follow. The books not only covers the physical training, but also the mental portion of preparing to push one's self to the extreme of running 26.2 miles. I also just like the idea of being able to accomplish something as big as running a marathon.
I was momentarily deterred by the fact that I don't have a marathon to sign up for (which is the very first step in the program. Give yourself a firm goal before you start). I have decided that I can just choose a day that fits with my training plan...and tell EVERYONE who will listen that I am running a marathon that day. I won't have completed anything official, but I will have still run the distance. By telling people, and by writing this blog, and by posting it on FB, I will have created some since of obligation. I won't be able to back out, because then I'll have to tell EVERYONE that I didn't do it. Later on, I might sign up for a marathon when one presents itself.
So, starting Monday I will be starting my pre-training. This portion may take 3 or 4 weeks...it depends on how long I can jog right now. I will know on Monday. After that, I will plot out my training program, and set a date for my marathon...and put in all my running goals on their proper days on my Google calendar. I might even write them in my planner too, just so I have them everywhere. The book provides little charts to help tract progress, and how you feel during the runs. I will probably create a digital version...either some kind of spreadsheet using Google Docs (which I would then attach here, of course), or I might just write those updates here. Not sure which one yet.
Anyway, putting such nerdiness aside...The pre-training is designed to get your muscles and bones used to the repeated stress of running 4 times a week. During the pre-training period I'll run for a set time (20, 25, and 30 minutes as the training progresses) 4 times a week. This will help prevent injuries once I start actually working on running for distance 4 times a week.
The distance total for first week of real training is 15 miles spread out over 4 runs. I'm intimidated already, but kinda jazzed about it too.
