Training Time!

Image originally from here

Slow and steady wins the race, right?

That's my motto for marathon training. Since I am starting from a place of little activity, I am very conscious of taking things slowly as I work my way up to the 26.2. As of this week, I am averaging about 2.5-3 miles per run, with some walking.

Since I am participating with the university, they have provided us with a spring schedule, to assist in working our way up to the more intense marathon training. I am in what you might call the "beginner group" and our spring goal is to run a 10K at the end of April. Considering I have never run a full 5K, this seems like a big task! But an important step on the journey to the marathon.

Here is our weekly schedule, which should include three runs each week:

Week of March 12
Run 1: 2 miles
Run 2: 2 miles
Run 3: 4 miles

Week of March 19
Run 1: 3 miles
Run 2: 2 miles
Run 3: 4 miles

Week of March 26
Run 1: 3 miles
Run 2: 2 miles
Run 3: 5 miles

Week of April 2
Run 1: 3 miles
Run 2: 3 miles
Run 3: 5 miles

Week of April 9
Run 1: 3 miles
Run 2: 3 miles
Run 3: 6 miles

Week of April 16
Run 1: 3 miles
Run 2: 3 miles
Run 3: 4 miles

Week of April 23
Run 1: 2 miles
Run 2: 2 miles
Run 3: 10K Race

Week of April 30
Run 1: 2 miles
Run 2: 3 miles
Run 3: 6 miles

This may seem slow, considering the eventual goal, however I have learned that it is key to stick with the training plan, even when we feel like we may be able to run more. Once we hit May-October, we will begin stepping up the mileage. I appreciate all of the guidance that I am receiving, which is helping me to stay motivated throughout the training. This is definitely the hardest thing I have ever accomplished.

What has been your greatest feat?