next training program? (Read 941 times)

I'm no coach or expert, but I am a female in your age group and was a new runner just under 2 years ago, so the below is based on my experiences, which have included many false starts, unpleasant weeks, and aches & pains. While I realize you like the structure of a formal program, I'd like to encourage you to try just listening to your body and slowly increasing your mileage. I say this for two reasons: 1) most "programs" seem to include some kind of speedwork or other "high quality" runs, when all you really need as a relative newbie is to continue to work on your base 2) no one can say with certainty how much you can increase your miles from week to week and month to month - sure there are "guidelines" (increase by 5% or 10% a week, have an easy week every 2, 3, or 4 weeks, etc.), but only you can tell for sure what's working (hint: if you're hurting or feeling run down, you're doing too much!). Meanwhile, you can always go race just for kicks n giggles if you get bored. Try to stick to this for a few months at least. Once you're at a weekly mileage load that satisfies you, then consider choosing some "quality" workouts or a training program. You'll have time before then to learn what different types of workouts do for you. You will be surprised how quickly you can work up to 20, 30, or more miles a week and how double-digit long runs become no big deal. Just a little patience and persistence. Arla

The HHST ends the the the same schedule that the beginner marathon program starts with on week one. I am only on week 4 but my plans are to do the marathon training plan but cut back the long runs some, once i finish.

I ditto HH's Novice Half Marathon Training. I used C25K, then OHR, now finishing the Half program - my race is in 3 weeks! - and I've found it to be very doable and fulfilling. Best!

Running is definitely a goal oriented activity and a formal schedule makes it much easier to stay focused. I'm a fan of the Cool Running training programs. They are generally a little tougher than normal and do a great job of preparing you for a race. I've used both the 10K and the marathon training programs. Tom

I am a firm opponent of anything involving "Coolrunning." You can find better or comparable plans at Hal Higdon's site, Runners' World, or visit lydiardfoundation.org and learn the basics.

To each his own. But really...Runner's World? The only decent information I've ever found there was fashion oriented. Tom