I’ve ran (ok ran and walked) a half marathon so I’m basically a pro runner now guys. Jokes. The full marathon runners were passing me with 10km to go. Meaning they had ran 30km in the time it took me to do 10km. Hahahaha HOW IS THAT EVEN POSSIBLE?! Actually I know how it’s possible. Good genes, long legs, and years of training.
Anyway, some of you have messaged me feeling inspired to do your own half (guys I’m flattered) and want to know tips. Imma big tip fan so here’s my rookie do’s and don’ts. Key word ROOKIE.
DO use a training plan from Megs and Soph. They’re great.
DO wear Lululemon. The tights, top AND undies. That’s v. important k?
DO put cornflour on your thighs and butt and other places that may rub.
DO stop at the aid stations and grab a swig of water. Or coke. Coke is great too.
DO put bandaids over places you think you’ll get blisters. Remember them pinky toes.
DO look up a DETAILED map of the start line, and plan to get there well in advance.
DO wear a cap. It keeps the sun, rain and hair off your face.
DO listen to podcasts. I think it helps the time to go by way quicker. My favourite is The Health Code.
DON’T only train with one pair of shoes. Get two pairs of good shoes so they’re not worn out by the time race day comes.
DON’T set yourself a time goal. The goal is to finish.
DON’T worry that some people walk faster than your jog. They have long legs ok?
DON’T wear too many layers. You’ll end up ditching that Cadenshae top on the side of the track. RIP.
DON’T forget to wear sunscreen. I know. You can get burnt on cloudy days. I forgot. Oops.
Special mentions go to @msrachelhollis for putting this half marathon idea in my head and @thewholedaily for signing up to a triathlon when she couldn’t swim, then going on to ace it. I thought “If Alice can swim, I can run!”
So… have I caught the running bug now? Maybe! Am I going to run another half marathon? Maybe! I do feel a little disappointed in how my day panned out (long story short I went to the full marathon start so ended up starting really late with the walkers) so I feel like I need to give it another shot. Or maybe a 10km is better for me? I’m not sure! I’m also conscious that I’m in the baby growing and rearing season which can throw a spanner in the works. For now I’m looking forward to exercising on my own schedule (instead of my husbands) and focusing on more than just running.
