As an official blogger for the 2018 DICK’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, I received complimentary race admission and race gear for blogging about my training experience.
The week of February 12th — Valentine’s Day, the release of Black Panther, and… the *official* start to my half marathon training.
As I kick-off training for the 2018 Pittsburgh Half Marathon, I have decided to create more accountability for myself by posting regular updates on my training progress. And I’m planning to be transparent. I’m a beginner! And there’s no hiding it. If this is your first half marathon training experience, maybe you’ll be able to relate, celebrate, and possibly commiserate with me. But let’s hope we’re not doing much of the latter!
My running buddy Michelle and I will be following Hal Higdon’s novice training program. And as we kicked off the official week 1, I felt, overall, pretty good with my workouts. But to be honest, I didn’t clock the miles I was hoping to. Between Valentine’s Day, family activities, and rainy weather — I know, excuses, excuses, I didn’t quite meet my mileage goals for the week.
However, I did accomplish my longest run since I started training this season — four miles outside with a faster pace than I had anticipated. I also completed some cross-training sessions with a cycling and power pump class.
As I head into this training program, I’ve already begun to see how I can get better! My goals these upcoming weeks are to do the following:
Create Accountability
Yes, I’m aiming to create accountability for myself… which is one of the main reasons I plan to regularly post my beginner’s progress here on my blog. The more publicly I talk about my training with my friends, family, and readers, the more likely I am to hold my end of the bargain and get it done!
Map Out Training Activities
While I’m following an actual half marathon training, I still need to schedule and accommodate the workouts in my week. When will the weather (hopefully!) allow a run outside? When can I meet Michelle for a long run? Are there any workout classes that I can attend for cross training? Oh, and I need to make sure I pack my gym bag the night before! I’m not a total morning person, and it rarely happens when I attempt to do it in the AM before I head to work.
Plan Healthier Meals and Snacks
Two big things I’ve noticed these last several weeks since I’ve started the combination of running and doing fitness classes — I’m hungry and so tired! Not only has my appetite increased throughout the day, but after a workout, I’m beat. I normally workout in the evening, and by the time I shower, eat dinner, and sit down on the couch with AJ and Anzu, it’s lights out for this girl. After sharing my misery with a friend, they suggested I review my diet to make sure I’m getting the proper nutrients now that I’ve increased my workouts. And she’s so right! I hadn’t even considered how I should be changing my diet. Add that to my to-do list!
The biggest win for me during week one?
Nice weather to take my long run outside over the weekend! I totally get why runners prefer logging their miles outside compared to on a treadmill. The breeze and changing scenery helped so much! Now I’m dreading going back to the treadmill when the temperatures drop again. Sigh.
And P.S., if you love geek chic workout gear like my Star Wars Fight Scene Leggings from Under Armor (pictured above), you have to check out the rest of my favorite geeky workout gear.
Are you considering running an upcoming 5K, half marathon, or a full marathon? Join me in my training and make 2018 your year.
And if you’re in the Pittsburgh area, consider signing up for one of this year’s DICK’s Sporting Goods marathon events — full marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, 5k, pet walk, or another. There’s something for everyone! Sign up by March 31, 2018 and receive $10 off your entry by using my official blogger code, DELMONICODSGPM18, at checkout. Learn more and sign up on the DICK’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon website.
Good luck with all your training lady friend!
Author
Thanks girl! Taking it day by day!
Half marathon training?? Get it, girl! I’m still working on running three miles without falling over 🙂
Author
It’s a work in progress for sure! A half marathon has been on my list for awhile, so I’m hoping to check it off this year!
You’re going to do amazing! This is why I do my trail to Trifecta posts. By the time I get to the Beast it’s basically a half marathon with obstacles. I can’t wait to see your journey!
Author
Thanks Ray! I can already tell a difference since I started working out more regularly. And the Beast sounds intense, but really awesome!! Are you training for one now?
Yup. I’m signed up for my Sprint and Super. Right now I’m focusing on strength training. Once the weather gets nicer I’m going to start running again!
Author
Awesome! Good luck with your training. 🙂
Good luck with your training! I’m a novice runner but made a goal to do a half marathon a few years ago and absolutely loved it! I’m hoping to do at least a 5K later this year. Great training tips!
Author
Thanks! I am enjoying the regular workout cadence! Appreciate the support. 🙂
Yay for week 1! I’ve completed 5 half marathons and every time I started training, it was like starting from total scratch – both scary, exhausting, and so exciting! I remember being super hungry a lot too and I never bothered enough to really adjust my diet, but if I ever do another one, that’ll be my main focus! Hope you have FUN training!!
Author
Well if you’ve done 5, it must be worth it! Thanks for sharing about your experience and for the support!
You’re killing it, girl!
Author
Thanks! Just trying to take it one day at a time. 🙂
Good for you for going after a half marathon! You’re going to do great 🙂
Author
Thanks! It’s coming up pretty fast, but I’m excited!
First off, how awesome was Black Panther?? I loved it! Second, way to go on the half training. I’m currently training for my second half and nervous because I injured myself during my first half a year ago. Will definitely be checking back to see how your progress goes. Best of luck!!
Author
Thanks for the encouraging note! Things have gone well so far, I just hope I can keep the momentum up! Best of luck with your training as well!