I'm thinking about a 10-miler, also, in February. So I'm crazy!! I would like to break 29 minutes in a 5k, and 1:05 in a 10k. I'd like to run a HM non-stop, even if it's slower than I did the last one by walk/running.

Stress Fractures???? Do Tell!!! Are you okay?

Tough break, Mr.PH, but at least you know what you have to deal with. I don't think there are any shortcuts with that type of injury.

Thanks, Cheffy. I did add intervals to my training schedule. That certainly had something to do with it, but I'm not going to the extreme and not ever do intervals again. There are other factors I think, too. I have some pretty good ideas of where the problems came from. One thing I've learned over the years is that it's not about what happens to you, but how you react to it. Easier said than done I know, but it does work if you give it a try. That said I'll cross train for however long I need to then ease back into running. No hurry, I'm in this for the long term, right? I know that you don't just lose your fitness overnight. Two years ago I severely tore my groin (not running related) . I couldn't run for 6 weeks, and couldn't even cross train for 4. I was pleasantly surprised how quickly I recovered my running fitness. So I'm not concerned about that. I'm glad to hear that your training is going well. The fact that you are enjoying it is the key.

Cheffy it sounds like you have a good plan there, keep it up Mr PH sorry to hear about the shins, get well soon. Simon 10 milers are the rare but they are an nice distance, there should more of''em I doing my 15th half in 10 days & then planning a 3rd full in the Spring (probably Pittsburgh) I don't pretend to race them anymore but signing up keeps me going.

Hi everyone. I haven’t checked in on the HM board in a while. Hope you’re all doing well and I really appreciated your advice, comments and encouragement for my first HM in October. Seeing the ortho Wed about my runner’s knee but I’m optimistic that the worst is behind me and I’m getting better. I’m actually going for an easy 6 miler tomorrow with my running club. I haven’t run with them since late September so I’m excited to run and be social with other runners again! I’m going to finish up 2008 with a 5k turkey trot Thanksgiving morning and the Mill Cities Relay on 12/7 – my first ever team event with my running club and first relay ever. I’m really looking forward to it. Hopefully the knee will be OK and I’ll be able to push the speed a little. For 2009, I want to log 1200 miles including my first marathon in the spring. I’m leaning towards the Vermont City marathon or the Providence, RI marathon. Boston is too tough to get into and I’d have to raise a lot of money for charity in a tough economic environment. Maybe 2010? I’d like to do another half marathon in February/March. Then I’d like to follow up with another marathon in the Fall. Maybe Chicago or NYC. Good luck everyone in 2009! MTA: I want to break 1:45 in a half and 4:15 in a marathon

Hi guys! MrPH - Please take care of those shins over the holiday season - with rest and careful recovery you'll be back in the bag in the spring. Everyone - CAREFUL with the injuries. I'm recovering from a very minor car accident, but 3 weeks later I'm just figuring out how its affecting me (upper back and shoulders) Right now, I'm trying out a strategy similar to Cheffy - some weight training to take off the last 5 lbs (hasn't happened just yet) and stabilize knees and ankles for next year. So my running has been pretty light - I just want to get to that 1000 mile mark - I'm supplimenting with elliptical and walking. Next year - 5K 28-29:00, 10K 60-62 minutes, and I'd like to do 2 HMs - maybe I'll get into the 2000K group (1242 miles) So I'm here and reading along, but nothing exciting to post... Have a great holiday - embrace the winter OR cuddle up with a good book or friend. A PS Teresa - I hope you are having a great trip in South Africa - we will need a report when you return.