Just a general thread about running. How’s your running going? What are you training for? Did you get new shoes? Sporting an injury etc.
I am going to run my first half marathon in 2 days. I have been preparing for this for last 6-7 months. Now, that I am here, I am getting tensed. If you guys can give me any tips, it would be helpful?
Being nervous and tense is normal. I get it all the time before a race, even after having started in many races, often even before shorter just-for-fun races. When the starting signal sounds, the nervousness immediately falls away, and your head will get into it, don’t worry. :)
I’ve run three halfs in the last year. Biggest thing for me is focusing on my stride in the second half. As your legs start to weaken, your stride will suffer which may leave you at risk of an awkward step that could have you dealing with rehab in the weeks after the run. For me personally, a single odd step (imagine going down stairs and thinking there’s one more at the bottom when there’s not) has sidelined my training for almost two months now. I can still run, but I can’t push distance at all. It’s to the point where I’m considering another couple weeks off even after a month with no running after the half.
Keep your eyes on the upcoming terrain and make sure it doesn’t surprise you.
It did go fairly well. I was nervous till I got there. But as soon as I reached the race venue, the people and their excitement made me excited and I ran the first half at a pretty good pace for my standards. But after 11k, I was slowly getting bored and lost the fun in the run. Nevertheless, I pushed myself to finish line with a reasonable timing for my first half-marathon(2:15:00).
I always get bored after 11-12k, maybe because I don’t listen to music while running(?). I am not sure.
Thats a really good time for a first HM. I was previously not doing anything when running re listening to something but I’ve recently been trying to listen to podcasts that I dont have to pay too much attention to. It would be good to have someone to talk shit with as well, just to take your mind off it.
