Vegas, baby. Vegas.
I'm going to be starting my 'official' Higdon training today! It's going to be weird to reign in my running when I've been pushing for that 4 mile mark. I think I'm supposed to run 2/3/2/4 this week. I'll double check before I leave. My longest run to date is a 3.8mi. I'll go out for day 1 this afternoon. I'm pretty jazzed.
MTA: I'm now going into week 3. I'm a little worried because I went from a long run of 4 mi (6/21) and now, next week, I'm moving into 5 miles (6/28-). Anyone have experience with this training program? I am worried 4 to 5 miles in a week is too much. For reference, I did 3-3-4 last week and the plan says 3.5-3.5-5 this week. I also do cross-training (biking, elliptical, 30 Day Shred). I am being very compliant with the program but my understanding was 10% max increase a week.
Back in OH:-( Snow Sucks
Higdon plans are pretty good and used this plan for first half last September. Make sure you also foolow the otherdays (strength and xtrain) as these plans are a little lighter on running compared to other plans so you need the fitness gained on the other non running days.
also plans are guidlines and you can always do more/adjust as you proceed. Also would make sure you hit some 5K, 5 mile, 10k races along the way to judge your progress.
Good luck
jazz hands
I think you will be OK! Just remember to go really slowly (including a run/ walk if you need it - that's what I do when I'm tired, etc...), you should feel like you could keep going when you're done.
If its really bugging you - do 4.5, you have another week to increase to 5.
For The Thunder!
You are going from 10 to 12 miles. Yes, that is more than 10%, but I think it's OK since your mileage isn't that high. Plus the next week after that is no increase. The 10% rule is just a guide, as is the plan you are following. It's OK to deviate as long as it isn't too extreme. I think that you'll be alright but of course if you start feeling wore down step back a bit.
I was only at 4 miles when I started that program. I was nervous about it, too, so I stretched it out and increased by half-miles at first. Then I got braver and increased by more. Once you get to 8 or so, what's another mile, anyway?
Good luck! You may surprise yourself! 5 miles is now a fun distance for me - bread and butter. I never thought I would say that in a million years!
I used the program last year for my first 1/2. It served me well as I thouroughly enjoyed the race. I was only able to do about 1/2 of the suggested cross training sessions though and found myself taking off the optional "run or cross" day midweek about half of the time as well.
Good Luck !
