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Human: Marathon Runners - what did you wish you knew prior to running a marathon? I'll be running my first marathon on 4/28. There is one final long run (20 miles to go) before we begin the taper. I've hit 90% of all scheduled runs (only missing 10 miles total on the plan to date) and read the Hal Higdon's marathon book from cover to cover. The gear has been tested, and the fueling has been perfected. What are some things you have learned during a marathon, or wish you had learned prior to doing one? How do you keep from going "taper crazy"? Assistant: That a marathon isn't really that long. That it's as hard as I let it be. That if I've done the training, the war will be in my mind. Srsly, it's not that long. Dominate perspective.	Human: Marathon Runners - what did you wish you knew prior to running a marathon? I'll be running my first marathon on 4/28. There is one final long run (20 miles to go) before we begin the taper. I've hit 90% of all scheduled runs (only missing 10 miles total on the plan to date) and read the Hal Higdon's marathon book from cover to cover. The gear has been tested, and the fueling has been perfected. What are some things you have learned during a marathon, or wish you had learned prior to doing one? How do you keep from going "taper crazy"? Assistant: if you register far in advance, pick a faster starting wave, or confirm where your pace group will be. Some marathons won't let you change after registration. it's much easier to drop back then to try to run through traffic. My first marathon I started in the b wave, but my pace group was in the a wave. spent the first 10k passing people, which was not fun and likely hurt my overall time with all the surges I had to put in to pass people.
Human: What's the best/most creative answer you've given when people ask "Why do you run?" This was inspired after looking at yesterday's post about [https://www.reddit.com/r/running/comments/7l4iop/whats_the_worst_running_advice_youve_ever_received/] One of the guys at work a few days ago asked me, "What am I running from". I told him, "Life". Running is my escape from just about everything and one of the few things I can control the outcome to. If i feel like going for a 10m run at 5:30am then yay, if not I can go right back to sleep. Friends and people I work with always comment with things like "I don't know how you do it", "I wish I had your motivation to get up that early" or "You're nuts there is no way I could run that far" Assistant: I'm a compulsive shop lifter. The running part comes naturally.	Human: What's the best/most creative answer you've given when people ask "Why do you run?" This was inspired after looking at yesterday's post about [https://www.reddit.com/r/running/comments/7l4iop/whats_the_worst_running_advice_youve_ever_received/] One of the guys at work a few days ago asked me, "What am I running from". I told him, "Life". Running is my escape from just about everything and one of the few things I can control the outcome to. If i feel like going for a 10m run at 5:30am then yay, if not I can go right back to sleep. Friends and people I work with always comment with things like "I don't know how you do it", "I wish I had your motivation to get up that early" or "You're nuts there is no way I could run that far" Assistant: It's a lot cheaper than therapy...at least in theory (don't look at my running shoe collection).
Human: Running goals and motivation as a grandmaster (50+)? As I’m now solidly in my 50’s, and feel like my fastest times are in the rear view, I’m finding it more and more difficult to get myself motivated to go for runs. I no longer feel like I can qualify for Boston (done it twice and kind of over it), mostly avoid speed work now as I’m afraid of potential injury, and just do easy or tempo runs to train and accumulate mileage for a couple of marathons a year. I’ve seen a natural progression from runner friends I know who slowly back away from running as they hit their late 50’s and early 60’s due to injuries, health issues, etc. I’m not ready to fade away yet as running is a big part of my identity, but without a purpose for my runs (other than the joy of being outside and moving my body) I’m finding it harder and harder to get myself out there, particularly as we’re heading into the colder months. Any suggestions from other grandmasters out there on what motivates you? Assistant: I am 55 (f) and now run only maybe 3-4 times per week but I walk the other days. Recovery time is important as we get older. I Average around 40 miles per week with both running and walking combined. I am not training for anything though I have thought about it and I might do some 5 or 10 Ks in the spring and decide if I want to do a 1/2 in the fall. For me it’s just so important to stay active as we age. I hope I still doing this many miles in 10 and maybe even 20 years from now.	Human: Running goals and motivation as a grandmaster (50+)? As I’m now solidly in my 50’s, and feel like my fastest times are in the rear view, I’m finding it more and more difficult to get myself motivated to go for runs. I no longer feel like I can qualify for Boston (done it twice and kind of over it), mostly avoid speed work now as I’m afraid of potential injury, and just do easy or tempo runs to train and accumulate mileage for a couple of marathons a year. I’ve seen a natural progression from runner friends I know who slowly back away from running as they hit their late 50’s and early 60’s due to injuries, health issues, etc. I’m not ready to fade away yet as running is a big part of my identity, but without a purpose for my runs (other than the joy of being outside and moving my body) I’m finding it harder and harder to get myself out there, particularly as we’re heading into the colder months. Any suggestions from other grandmasters out there on what motivates you? Assistant: Come join us weirdos in the woods. We’ll run for hours and hours. Also, intervals! And before anyone scoffs, I know multiple people who win/place in 100 milers using intervals.
Human: If I do strength training, am I better doing that on days with higher or lower intensity runs? I think the title pretty much says it all. The logic for combining strength training with high intensity runs would be overload whereas the logic for combining it with low intensity would be a more "balanced" workout (both slow & fast fibers). I don't remember having ever read something about strength training timing (i.e. what I'm asking just now) in any endurance book I have read (8020, etc.) Anyone? Assistant: From what I have seen mentioned and what I have read (sorry, can't give a firm source), it is recommended to do strength/weight training on hard days so that the recovery/easy days can be true recovery/easy days. Hard days hard, easy days easy. I do minimal strength work (Myrtl routine, core stuff, etc.) so I usually do them on recovery days, but they are not as intensive as lifting weights.	Human: If I do strength training, am I better doing that on days with higher or lower intensity runs? I think the title pretty much says it all. The logic for combining strength training with high intensity runs would be overload whereas the logic for combining it with low intensity would be a more "balanced" workout (both slow & fast fibers). I don't remember having ever read something about strength training timing (i.e. what I'm asking just now) in any endurance book I have read (8020, etc.) Anyone? Assistant: The issue that jumps out to me is that if you do both high intensity workouts on the same day, you’ll be wiped by the first workout and won’t be able to go all in for the second high intensity workout. Your mileage may vary.
Human: First marathon at 265lbs, help avoiding the wall There are rumors that you can avoid the wall. I’m not sure if it’s fact or fiction. I want to believe. I can totally see how finishing a marathon without a wall could be euphoric. My euphoria is starting to kick in… the farther away from the marathon I get. Feel free to provide any advice you have for a Clydesdale-sized runner wanting to learn how to avoid the wall. Let me know if you see any flaws in my training, nutrition, or strategy. Did I need more carbs during the race? Hindsight makes me think I took in the carbs of a much smaller person during the race. Thanks for your guidance! Background: I ran my first marathon last week at 265lbs. My time was 4:54:15. My goal was 4:35 with a 10:30min/mile pace. I also ran my first half marathon in July at 2:01:41 and a 9:16 pace. I felt the 10:30 pace for the full marathon was achievable. I was wrong. My marathon: the first 15 miles went great. I averaged a 10:20 mile pace with a heart rate in the mid- 160s. I felt really good during this time. Between miles 15-19, I watched my pace as I knew the inevitable wall was looming. I could feel my heart rate elevate while doing to same amount of work. At mile 19, the wall came. I slowed to a 10:45 pace with a heart rate of 183. I had a “wall” plan. Walk for one minute and run for two minutes. The last 7 miles were a deep pain cave. I didn’t enjoy it at all. All I could think is, why the F do people do this? My Training: I’m a larger guy, 6’3”, but found the training for the marathon rewarding. The mid-runs (8-16 miles) were euphoric. It was a great feeling of accomplishment without a huge deal of weekend fatigue. The longer runs (+17) were a pain. No matter how much I carb-loaded, hydrated, slept, stretched, etc., I always hit a wall at 15-16 miles on long runs. The weekend fatigue was a drag as I’ve got two small kids and felt like a bum. I was very consistent in my training. I started in April for an October marathon. My longest run was 20.5. I only missed one three-mile run during training. My nutritional plan: For the marathon, I carb-loaded three days prior with a goal of 900g a day. On the day of the race, I took a scratch labs hyper hydration, ate three plain bagels, and drank lots of water. During the marathon, I used Nuun electrolytes, drank lots of water, and took maurten gel 100 every 30 minutes. I alternated between caff and non-caff. Assistant: Maybe an unpopular opinion, but you brought the wall on yourself by “knowing it was coming”. You said you were feeling good, why were you thinking of the wall? Make a plan and stick to it, then don’t worry. Strengthen this aspect and I don’t think you need to fix anything else. Good luck.	Human: First marathon at 265lbs, help avoiding the wall There are rumors that you can avoid the wall. I’m not sure if it’s fact or fiction. I want to believe. I can totally see how finishing a marathon without a wall could be euphoric. My euphoria is starting to kick in… the farther away from the marathon I get. Feel free to provide any advice you have for a Clydesdale-sized runner wanting to learn how to avoid the wall. Let me know if you see any flaws in my training, nutrition, or strategy. Did I need more carbs during the race? Hindsight makes me think I took in the carbs of a much smaller person during the race. Thanks for your guidance! Background: I ran my first marathon last week at 265lbs. My time was 4:54:15. My goal was 4:35 with a 10:30min/mile pace. I also ran my first half marathon in July at 2:01:41 and a 9:16 pace. I felt the 10:30 pace for the full marathon was achievable. I was wrong. My marathon: the first 15 miles went great. I averaged a 10:20 mile pace with a heart rate in the mid- 160s. I felt really good during this time. Between miles 15-19, I watched my pace as I knew the inevitable wall was looming. I could feel my heart rate elevate while doing to same amount of work. At mile 19, the wall came. I slowed to a 10:45 pace with a heart rate of 183. I had a “wall” plan. Walk for one minute and run for two minutes. The last 7 miles were a deep pain cave. I didn’t enjoy it at all. All I could think is, why the F do people do this? My Training: I’m a larger guy, 6’3”, but found the training for the marathon rewarding. The mid-runs (8-16 miles) were euphoric. It was a great feeling of accomplishment without a huge deal of weekend fatigue. The longer runs (+17) were a pain. No matter how much I carb-loaded, hydrated, slept, stretched, etc., I always hit a wall at 15-16 miles on long runs. The weekend fatigue was a drag as I’ve got two small kids and felt like a bum. I was very consistent in my training. I started in April for an October marathon. My longest run was 20.5. I only missed one three-mile run during training. My nutritional plan: For the marathon, I carb-loaded three days prior with a goal of 900g a day. On the day of the race, I took a scratch labs hyper hydration, ate three plain bagels, and drank lots of water. During the marathon, I used Nuun electrolytes, drank lots of water, and took maurten gel 100 every 30 minutes. I alternated between caff and non-caff. Assistant: Like all the smart people already said, weekly mileage is a key. You can eat all the oatmeal and carbs in a world, it won’t help.
Human: How much of an effect does your diet the day before a run have on your performance? I was eating out with my family at a restaurant last night and indulged in quite a large sugary dessert which is something I don't usually do. Tried my normal 10k run this morning but ended up feeling incredibly nauseous shortly after starting, and ended up with a time 10 minutes slower than normal. I'm sure it wasn't food poisoning or anything as I haven't felt sick at all today other than when running. Is it normal for the type of food you eat before running to have this much of an affect on performance? Assistant: What finally kicked my Wendy's chicken sandwich for lunch habit was noticing how sluggish my runs after work were on a Wendy's day compared to a normal food day.	Human: How much of an effect does your diet the day before a run have on your performance? I was eating out with my family at a restaurant last night and indulged in quite a large sugary dessert which is something I don't usually do. Tried my normal 10k run this morning but ended up feeling incredibly nauseous shortly after starting, and ended up with a time 10 minutes slower than normal. I'm sure it wasn't food poisoning or anything as I haven't felt sick at all today other than when running. Is it normal for the type of food you eat before running to have this much of an affect on performance? Assistant: Yes, food has a huge impact on how your body feels, even the day before a run. I try to eat simple carbs (and try to stay away from anything too processed) before a run where i'm really trying to perform. Everyone has to experiment a little bit, just don't experiment/make a huge break from your normal diet right before a particularly strenuous run or race.
Human: Just started running - how long did it take all of you to build up stamina? I know everyone is different so the answers will vary, but I (24F) started running this week and so far I'm doing around one minute of walking and then 45 seconds of running, on and off for 30 minutes. I'm curious to know how everyone adjusted to their run and how long it took to build up something like a 5 mile run. At my beginning stage, it's crazy to think about eventually being able to run for miles. Any tips or advice would be much appreciated! Assistant: I am 23 years older than you and never ran before mid last year when I started with c25k. It took me 3 weeks to finish the program and another month until I did 10K without stop. I’m not fast, hover around 10 min mile	Human: Just started running - how long did it take all of you to build up stamina? I know everyone is different so the answers will vary, but I (24F) started running this week and so far I'm doing around one minute of walking and then 45 seconds of running, on and off for 30 minutes. I'm curious to know how everyone adjusted to their run and how long it took to build up something like a 5 mile run. At my beginning stage, it's crazy to think about eventually being able to run for miles. Any tips or advice would be much appreciated! Assistant: To give you a time frame for reference I started with a 14min mile no walking and by week 4 was able to do 6 miles at that same pace. But it took another 7 months to get it under 10mins. Then 3 more months to get it sub 8:30. Mpw after the 5th week was about 8mpw. This increases gradually. Current mpw is about 24.
Human: How long did it take you to increase your running frequency? I’m a new to running and fitness in general as I’ve been very sedentary the last 6 or so years since HS. I’m currently on week 6 of C25k and sometimes I have to take more than one rest day between runs because I’m still sore or just feel like my body is “off” and I don’t want to hurt myself. For background I have had a myriad of injuries and muscle problems the last couple years due to being an operator for construction equipment (sitting 14 hours a day + getting jostled around by a machine and bracing yourself constantly = oblique, adductor, and pec strains and femoral anterior glide syndrome, who knew?). But those are for the most part healed with rest and pt. Those areas still get mildly aggravated often but I’ve gotten to the point in my pt that strengthening those muscle groups is my main focus because weak muscles are what caused my injuries in the first place. Anyways, back to my main question. How long did it take you personally to increase the frequency of your runs from 2 or 3 days a week to 4 or 5 or more? I’m having to take things excruciatingly slowly because of all my body issues but I guess I’m just looking for a time frame to look forward to? I’ve been enjoying running for the most part and feeling a little sad and bored during my scheduled rest days, even more so on my scheduled run days when my body says “no, I need more rest, maybe we can run tomorrow.” Assistant: Make sure that you're doing warm ups before your runs and then a cooldown/stretch afterwards. For me, if I don't stretch after a run, I'll be tight for a few days. It might not fix everything, but it'll definitely help cut down on how sore you are the next day!	Human: How long did it take you to increase your running frequency? I’m a new to running and fitness in general as I’ve been very sedentary the last 6 or so years since HS. I’m currently on week 6 of C25k and sometimes I have to take more than one rest day between runs because I’m still sore or just feel like my body is “off” and I don’t want to hurt myself. For background I have had a myriad of injuries and muscle problems the last couple years due to being an operator for construction equipment (sitting 14 hours a day + getting jostled around by a machine and bracing yourself constantly = oblique, adductor, and pec strains and femoral anterior glide syndrome, who knew?). But those are for the most part healed with rest and pt. Those areas still get mildly aggravated often but I’ve gotten to the point in my pt that strengthening those muscle groups is my main focus because weak muscles are what caused my injuries in the first place. Anyways, back to my main question. How long did it take you personally to increase the frequency of your runs from 2 or 3 days a week to 4 or 5 or more? I’m having to take things excruciatingly slowly because of all my body issues but I guess I’m just looking for a time frame to look forward to? I’ve been enjoying running for the most part and feeling a little sad and bored during my scheduled rest days, even more so on my scheduled run days when my body says “no, I need more rest, maybe we can run tomorrow.” Assistant: i went from very occasional to 5 or 6 days a week immediately when i started middle school cross country. everyone is going to be different, just listen to your body.
Human: Do you get depressed if you stop running? If I miss a few days in a row, my mood begins to get pretty low. Anybody else feel this? Maybe I’m just overreacting… Assistant: I injured my knee and haven't been able to run in over a year.. im depressed and 4 stone heavier. Listen to your body, stretch, miss a run, do anything other than continue to run through a continuous pain like I did. Miss a few runs now or miss a load later is what I'm saying	Human: Do you get depressed if you stop running? If I miss a few days in a row, my mood begins to get pretty low. Anybody else feel this? Maybe I’m just overreacting… Assistant: I get really pissy I think. I broke my ankle once and I was a nightmare for a month because i couldn't exercise.
Human: Winter runners, how are you enjoying your runs now that the snow has melted? I'm from Canada and I shaved a minute and a half off of my pace! Assistant: It's a night and day difference. I mean sure I run just as much in the winter, but as a coping mechanism I delude myself into thinking that wearing 7 pieces of clothing is fine, that needing 10min of running to warm up is fine, that wet feet are fine. Once the snow is gone and the temperature starts inching up, like it is here in east coast Canada, I can stop the mental charade. Winter. running. sucks.	Human: Winter runners, how are you enjoying your runs now that the snow has melted? I'm from Canada and I shaved a minute and a half off of my pace! Assistant: Dreading the upcoming hot and humid weather
Human: Ran my first 5k this past weekend and really want to improve my speed. I see multiple plans out there and have no idea which one is best. I ran my first 5k ever at the blistering speed of 40:20. If you blinked you probably missed me going by. Obviously there is lots of room to improve here. I've been looking around online on what my best strategy is and I see everything from hill training to just keep doing park runs and increase your pace slightly to interval training at the target pace. The plan that seems to make the most sense to me calls for running 1 km at target pace and then either stopping/walking/jogging for 60 secs to catch your breath before doing the next km at target pace and repeating. The next week cut the break in between from 60 secs to 45 or 30 secs and eventually work down to running the entire thing at target speed. At this point my goal is 35 mins. Once we hit that we'll work for 30 which is my stretch goal by the end of the year. I'd like to do the same 5k I did this year next year at under 30 mins. This would have me finishing somewhere in the 170s and top 25 in my age group which honestly is probably the cap on what's reasonable for me. The winner in my age group ran 20:56 and I can't imagine doing a 5k in that time frame and I'd have to crack 25 mins just to be top 10. Assistant: Hey man. On 16th March I did my first 5k at 39 minutes. I then started my 10K programme and I’ve actually only been doing 2 runs a week instead of 3. My 5k time is now 33 minutes and I think if I pushed hard I could get 30 minutes. So adding distance for me has added pace.	Human: Ran my first 5k this past weekend and really want to improve my speed. I see multiple plans out there and have no idea which one is best. I ran my first 5k ever at the blistering speed of 40:20. If you blinked you probably missed me going by. Obviously there is lots of room to improve here. I've been looking around online on what my best strategy is and I see everything from hill training to just keep doing park runs and increase your pace slightly to interval training at the target pace. The plan that seems to make the most sense to me calls for running 1 km at target pace and then either stopping/walking/jogging for 60 secs to catch your breath before doing the next km at target pace and repeating. The next week cut the break in between from 60 secs to 45 or 30 secs and eventually work down to running the entire thing at target speed. At this point my goal is 35 mins. Once we hit that we'll work for 30 which is my stretch goal by the end of the year. I'd like to do the same 5k I did this year next year at under 30 mins. This would have me finishing somewhere in the 170s and top 25 in my age group which honestly is probably the cap on what's reasonable for me. The winner in my age group ran 20:56 and I can't imagine doing a 5k in that time frame and I'd have to crack 25 mins just to be top 10. Assistant: You have to build the engine first, and then you can tune it up. You are doing everything right. Don't stress over that time - it will improve all by itself (especially in the fall, when temperatures go down some!). You beat every person on their couch.
Human: Runners of this sub, do you have a strange or life-threatening event that happened while running? Assistant: I collapsed at mile 25.5 of a marathon with a 106.9 body temp	Human: Runners of this sub, do you have a strange or life-threatening event that happened while running? Assistant: A bat flew into the side of my head. A lady behind me saw it and burst out laughing in disbelief. I have no idea what happened to the bat, but I was unscathed besides the shock and bump.
Human: Runners with UC/Crohns, how do you manage to keep running with your condition? I've been diagnosed for almost a year and a half now with UC, and my ability to run has suffered tremendously. I used to be able to put down 3 miles or more in a session, and I was planning on training for another marathon, but now I generally can't go more than 2 miles without a terrible urge to go. I feel like in the morning I have to immediately use the bathroom when I wake up, then sit around and wait for an hour for "Round Two," and then try to go for a run. Even then, sometimes, I'll get about a quarter mile out before it's emergency time. I've had more than my fair share of "accidents" while running, and terrible "barely making it back in time" incidents that I'm afraid to run at this point. It's really frustrating. I can't even go 2 miles in my neighborhood, and I've avoided all types of actual 5ks or anything out of fear of incidents. What have you guys done that's worked, or do I just need to hold off on the running until I get into remission? It's really depressing. Assistant: Theres this youtuber called Dan Whitehead who has Crohns. He makes a series of really high quality vlogs about his lifestyle and his training for running the UTMB CCC. link	Human: Runners with UC/Crohns, how do you manage to keep running with your condition? I've been diagnosed for almost a year and a half now with UC, and my ability to run has suffered tremendously. I used to be able to put down 3 miles or more in a session, and I was planning on training for another marathon, but now I generally can't go more than 2 miles without a terrible urge to go. I feel like in the morning I have to immediately use the bathroom when I wake up, then sit around and wait for an hour for "Round Two," and then try to go for a run. Even then, sometimes, I'll get about a quarter mile out before it's emergency time. I've had more than my fair share of "accidents" while running, and terrible "barely making it back in time" incidents that I'm afraid to run at this point. It's really frustrating. I can't even go 2 miles in my neighborhood, and I've avoided all types of actual 5ks or anything out of fear of incidents. What have you guys done that's worked, or do I just need to hold off on the running until I get into remission? It's really depressing. Assistant: Loperamide HCL. Buy it on amazon! Slows down the systems. I’m missing most of my colon and an important little valve. Without those little dudes I’d be on the pot ever 20 minutes.
Human: Old running shoes - what do you do with them? I don’t really have room in my flat to keep my old running shoes. I’ve got three dead pairs - but I get sentimental! What does everyone do with theirs? Assistant: If they are still in good enough condition to wear you can donate them to most running stores who will give them to charity. If they are not, Nike has their Reuse-A-Shoe program. Those shoes are then taken apart to be used as a sport surface (playground flooring, etc). They don't have to be Nike to be donated.	Human: Old running shoes - what do you do with them? I don’t really have room in my flat to keep my old running shoes. I’ve got three dead pairs - but I get sentimental! What does everyone do with theirs? Assistant: My default is to make them my yard work shoe for mowing, and for painting. But the problem with that is I only need one pair for that. I have my Kinvara 4s for that (they're on 11 now if that's any indication). Otherwise, I'll keep my near-retirement shoes for running in heavy storms/snow. Anything else, I put in the donation bin at my local running store--I believe they give them to homeless shelters.
Human: Is mouth-breathing while running really that bad? When I'm running a slow pace to cover distance, I still feel I have to mouth-breathe. I've read that its optimal to nose breath whenever you can. Years ago I use to be a good runner and I would mouth breathe almost all the time. Is it really that bad? Assistant: Watch a race of elite runners, none are breathing through their nose. Total junk science. Someone must be making a lot of money off of it though, because I've seen a bunch of questions about this recently. Did someone publish a book recently and are heavily promoting it? Grifters gonna grift.	Human: Is mouth-breathing while running really that bad? When I'm running a slow pace to cover distance, I still feel I have to mouth-breathe. I've read that its optimal to nose breath whenever you can. Years ago I use to be a good runner and I would mouth breathe almost all the time. Is it really that bad? Assistant: Why would it be? Your body knows the best way to take in sufficient air.
Human: Recommend me a light weight water proof running jacket? For context for a male in their mid 30 in the UK. Getting back into running could do with getting a lightweight jacket that's waterproof. Does anyone have some recommendations on good brands or models? Thanks! Assistant: Live in Seattle lots of rain. I never wear waterproof and rarely wear any jacket. At most I wear a fleece vest to keep my core dry and let everything breath.	Human: Recommend me a light weight water proof running jacket? For context for a male in their mid 30 in the UK. Getting back into running could do with getting a lightweight jacket that's waterproof. Does anyone have some recommendations on good brands or models? Thanks! Assistant: I just use a Nike wind breaker it’s in the blue ribbon sport club line of clothing
Human: Books about Running Hello all, Any book recommendation about running? Any kind. Assistant: Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen by Christopher mcdougall	Human: Books about Running Hello all, Any book recommendation about running? Any kind. Assistant: Running with the Mind of Meditation.
Human: Does anyone else find themselves speeding up towards the end of their run? I run normally 10:30-36 per mile for a moderate run, but when it hits the final mile or so, I end up running a lot faster without realising. For example today I ran @ 09:36 per mile in the final half mile but it literally felt as fast as the other 3 miles, the slowest of which was 11:02 (it was very windy around mile 2). Does anyone else have this happen to them? If so, why does it happen? Is it because my body knows that I'm stopping afterwards? Assistant: I do this, because I want to be DONE 😹	Human: Does anyone else find themselves speeding up towards the end of their run? I run normally 10:30-36 per mile for a moderate run, but when it hits the final mile or so, I end up running a lot faster without realising. For example today I ran @ 09:36 per mile in the final half mile but it literally felt as fast as the other 3 miles, the slowest of which was 11:02 (it was very windy around mile 2). Does anyone else have this happen to them? If so, why does it happen? Is it because my body knows that I'm stopping afterwards? Assistant: In horsey circles this is known as being "barn trained." ;)
Human: Anyone else find running with a strap on uncomfortable? I am of course referring to HR monitors. I love the additional data it gives me and presumably more accurate HR data but I find it really uncomfortable and I'm not sure it is worth it. Assistant: In today's episode of "Wearable queen, exhibitionist, or gun nut?" we have OP.	Human: Anyone else find running with a strap on uncomfortable? I am of course referring to HR monitors. I love the additional data it gives me and presumably more accurate HR data but I find it really uncomfortable and I'm not sure it is worth it. Assistant: No
Human: Anyone else finds it harder to run slower? Like the title says, I find it much more tiring to try to deliberately run at a slower "recovery" pace. With my current training plan I have some runs at 9:00/mile and some at 11:30/mile. When I do runs at 9:00/mile I tend to feel pretty good after 10mi and often have the energy to throw in some strides at the end, while running the same distance at 11:30/mi just makes my legs sore and tired and makes me feel like I can't run any longer. Anyone else got any experience with this? Assistant: Definitely, slower paces don't feel natural	Human: Anyone else finds it harder to run slower? Like the title says, I find it much more tiring to try to deliberately run at a slower "recovery" pace. With my current training plan I have some runs at 9:00/mile and some at 11:30/mile. When I do runs at 9:00/mile I tend to feel pretty good after 10mi and often have the energy to throw in some strides at the end, while running the same distance at 11:30/mi just makes my legs sore and tired and makes me feel like I can't run any longer. Anyone else got any experience with this? Assistant: I find it most difficult to to run slower than normal. I adjust my stride length to go slower rather than step rate.
Human: What is better: heel striking or midfoot striking? What pros and cons do they have? So I use an app called Nike Training Centre (NTC), which gives me guided runs with voice coaches to help me. While running during one of the 5k or 10k intervals, the coach said "now don't go heel striking and breaking down your form." I was confused because I've been heel striking the whole time and I thought heel striking was the way to go. I'm pretty new to like serious running in case you couldn't tell already. So my question is what difference does heel striking make to midfoot striking (pros and cons) and which one should I be doing? (in case it helps in your answer, one of the things I noticed while running longer distances is that the area around my shin/foot starts to pain after a while due to the stress, and that my calves feel rather stiff while I run). And if yes, are there any tips or anything you can help in maintaining the midfoot strike ? Assistant: For me, it wasnt so much heel / forefoot / midfoot it was landing with my knees bent that made a big difference. for my physiology, forefoot striking feels like the most natural way to have short strides, stay light on my feet, and to land with my knees bet. After focusing on my knees, my foot strike fell into place. I personally cannot heel strike at all now. I feel really clumsy and impactful. But, it may be different for you.	Human: What is better: heel striking or midfoot striking? What pros and cons do they have? So I use an app called Nike Training Centre (NTC), which gives me guided runs with voice coaches to help me. While running during one of the 5k or 10k intervals, the coach said "now don't go heel striking and breaking down your form." I was confused because I've been heel striking the whole time and I thought heel striking was the way to go. I'm pretty new to like serious running in case you couldn't tell already. So my question is what difference does heel striking make to midfoot striking (pros and cons) and which one should I be doing? (in case it helps in your answer, one of the things I noticed while running longer distances is that the area around my shin/foot starts to pain after a while due to the stress, and that my calves feel rather stiff while I run). And if yes, are there any tips or anything you can help in maintaining the midfoot strike ? Assistant: So I’m in the exact same boat as you, and I just finished a 2 mile run after completely switching my foot strike. It felt really unnatural and forced, but I just pushed through it. Im so glad I found this thread because that was honestly so uncomfortable haha, definitely returning to my natural running form next time
Human: What can I do to mitigate shin splints? So some background: I was initially supposed to start the fire academy in June of last year (2020) and it requires a physical test. Pushups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and a 2 mile run in 16min. I was only made aware of this about 8 days before, as I applied later than most. As someone who hasn’t consistently run since high school, I knew I’d have to run every day to get to that pace. I know that’s probably child’s play for most of you, but 8min/mi is tough for me. Not overweight (6’2” 180), but not lanky either. Ran 8 days straight, then the interview/test (whole class actually) was cancelled due to Covid issues. I noticed on the last day running that I was having some pain in my shins, and the following days they were extremely tender, and walking was a bit painful, but I just chalked it up to the amount of running I did in such a short span. Fast forward to September and I was picked it up again to get ready for test in first week of December. From the first run, I was in a ton of pain. Couldn’t run more than once a week, and if I pushed it and ran a day or two after I would barely be able to make it through the run, and the following 2-3 days I’d hardly be able to walk. I know I sound a bit dramatic, but I’ve broken bones, torn muscles, etc and this was rough. Did plenty of RICE in between, fortunately I didn’t have to be on my feet much, but even after taking a little over 2 weeks off, one run would set me back to where I was. Plenty of stretching and foam rolling as well. I ended up backing out of the test, and fortunately they’re going to give me another shot in May, so I’ve come seeking advice and/or hear about your experience with shin splints. I’m relatively certain there’s no stress fractures, but I honestly can’t afford imaging at the moment as I’m unemployed and have terrible marketplace insurance. I did go and get my feet scanned (high arches), and got a pair of OnClouds and and custom insoles. I also got a pair of compression socks. I’ve always done at least some strength training, but have somewhat neglected my legs, so I plan on upping it to two leg days a week, with more functional exercises to help strengthen supporting muscles and my calves. Keeping it low impact, but I’d like to give myself a couple months of running to prepare so I kind of need to be back at it by mid March at the latest. I know I was a little long winded, but I’ve you’ve made it this far and can tell me a bit about your experience, or have any tips/tricks/advice, it would be much appreciated. Tl;dr: I have bad shin splints, need to be able to run 2mi in 16min by mid May. Got shoes, insoles, compression socks, read up on stretching, exercises, etc. What else can I do? Assistant: I have flat feet and was never a runner. I joined the Army and found out what shin splints were and would get them all the time. I went to a podiatrist and he fitted me with orthotics and then went to a running store and they did their thing and fitted me with the right shoes for my size, fit type, and running gait. Never had even a slight pain from shin splints since.	Human: What can I do to mitigate shin splints? So some background: I was initially supposed to start the fire academy in June of last year (2020) and it requires a physical test. Pushups, sit-ups, pull-ups, and a 2 mile run in 16min. I was only made aware of this about 8 days before, as I applied later than most. As someone who hasn’t consistently run since high school, I knew I’d have to run every day to get to that pace. I know that’s probably child’s play for most of you, but 8min/mi is tough for me. Not overweight (6’2” 180), but not lanky either. Ran 8 days straight, then the interview/test (whole class actually) was cancelled due to Covid issues. I noticed on the last day running that I was having some pain in my shins, and the following days they were extremely tender, and walking was a bit painful, but I just chalked it up to the amount of running I did in such a short span. Fast forward to September and I was picked it up again to get ready for test in first week of December. From the first run, I was in a ton of pain. Couldn’t run more than once a week, and if I pushed it and ran a day or two after I would barely be able to make it through the run, and the following 2-3 days I’d hardly be able to walk. I know I sound a bit dramatic, but I’ve broken bones, torn muscles, etc and this was rough. Did plenty of RICE in between, fortunately I didn’t have to be on my feet much, but even after taking a little over 2 weeks off, one run would set me back to where I was. Plenty of stretching and foam rolling as well. I ended up backing out of the test, and fortunately they’re going to give me another shot in May, so I’ve come seeking advice and/or hear about your experience with shin splints. I’m relatively certain there’s no stress fractures, but I honestly can’t afford imaging at the moment as I’m unemployed and have terrible marketplace insurance. I did go and get my feet scanned (high arches), and got a pair of OnClouds and and custom insoles. I also got a pair of compression socks. I’ve always done at least some strength training, but have somewhat neglected my legs, so I plan on upping it to two leg days a week, with more functional exercises to help strengthen supporting muscles and my calves. Keeping it low impact, but I’d like to give myself a couple months of running to prepare so I kind of need to be back at it by mid March at the latest. I know I was a little long winded, but I’ve you’ve made it this far and can tell me a bit about your experience, or have any tips/tricks/advice, it would be much appreciated. Tl;dr: I have bad shin splints, need to be able to run 2mi in 16min by mid May. Got shoes, insoles, compression socks, read up on stretching, exercises, etc. What else can I do? Assistant: I used to get shin splints when I was heel striking. I changed to a mid foot strike and haven’t had shin splints since. I also have high arches.
Human: For non-marathon'ers, how would a smart watch (or foot pods) change your next run? Ignoring the "which brand of watch" question, i'm trying to understand how I'd use the info from my watch or a foot pod to change future runs. I like running but I'm no marathon'er. I understand how those of you who are far beyond my fitness level can benefit, and if using this will help me improve fitness/speed/etc that's awesome. It is motivational to see my pace, my distance, various PRs, and I've used that as "fuel" to keep going during a run. IE "Whoa i'm <x> off my pace/distance PR". But other than motivation for PRs, what would you say is the benefit of using a smart watch or foot pods during runs? Just pace/distance? Assistant: Today I ran an easy 3k out and back. I set my watch to a 3k goal, so it would buzz when I hit 1.5k and I knew when to turn around. I then left it on the screen that showed my speed so I could stay consistent and not run too slow or fast. Pretty convenient little tool imo	Human: For non-marathon'ers, how would a smart watch (or foot pods) change your next run? Ignoring the "which brand of watch" question, i'm trying to understand how I'd use the info from my watch or a foot pod to change future runs. I like running but I'm no marathon'er. I understand how those of you who are far beyond my fitness level can benefit, and if using this will help me improve fitness/speed/etc that's awesome. It is motivational to see my pace, my distance, various PRs, and I've used that as "fuel" to keep going during a run. IE "Whoa i'm <x> off my pace/distance PR". But other than motivation for PRs, what would you say is the benefit of using a smart watch or foot pods during runs? Just pace/distance? Assistant: I use a watch+pod for distance, pace, time, etc... the pod goes with me when I travel for treadmill use in hotels. I'm by no means a long distance runner, having not gone much over a 10k, but having the data is nice. The best part of the watch is tracking my resting heart rate and seeing what an alcohol-free lifestyle with lots of sleep can do to your metrics. The exercise brought the resting heart rate down and by going alcohol-free I'm sleeping way more and feeling so much more energetic.
Human: Hey Fellow runners, I hit my goal this Month of 200 km’s. I ran 27 out of 30 days. I’m very proud of myself. Just for fun and because I’m curious how many KM’s do y’all typically run in a Month ? Happy Friday and have fun running! Hey, I’m a 31 year old female and I had a goal of hitting a personal best of 200 km’s in one Month. Well I’d did it today yay me! I ran 201.51 km’s to be exact and ran 27-30 days this Month. I’m curious as to how many KM’s do you run on a typical month or if you have any similar goals and if you do what is your goals by running x amount of Km’s is it for health, for fun, training for a marathon of some sort, etc... anyways happy Friday and have fun running I know I do ❤️ Assistant: 59 yo male here. I shoot for 150 miles (250km) per month. April I hit 195 miles (300 km). I am training for a late June marathon, so I expect May will be similar. I can't currently feel my legs.	Human: Hey Fellow runners, I hit my goal this Month of 200 km’s. I ran 27 out of 30 days. I’m very proud of myself. Just for fun and because I’m curious how many KM’s do y’all typically run in a Month ? Happy Friday and have fun running! Hey, I’m a 31 year old female and I had a goal of hitting a personal best of 200 km’s in one Month. Well I’d did it today yay me! I ran 201.51 km’s to be exact and ran 27-30 days this Month. I’m curious as to how many KM’s do you run on a typical month or if you have any similar goals and if you do what is your goals by running x amount of Km’s is it for health, for fun, training for a marathon of some sort, etc... anyways happy Friday and have fun running I know I do ❤️ Assistant: 110k for April.
Human: Ideas for "memorializing" retired shoes I'm retiring a pair of running shoes that I've been running in for the bulk of this year. It has been a really really hard year for me (parents got divorced—then I got divorced) and running has been a bright spot for me. I ran my first marathon and ran rim to rim and most of the training I did was in these shoes—so part of me is slow to just toss them as I normally do. Have any of y'all done any sort of cool things to retire/remember a special pair of shoes? I know I'm a sentimental mess lol Assistant: easy…2 of these **only semi-serious	Human: Ideas for "memorializing" retired shoes I'm retiring a pair of running shoes that I've been running in for the bulk of this year. It has been a really really hard year for me (parents got divorced—then I got divorced) and running has been a bright spot for me. I ran my first marathon and ran rim to rim and most of the training I did was in these shoes—so part of me is slow to just toss them as I normally do. Have any of y'all done any sort of cool things to retire/remember a special pair of shoes? I know I'm a sentimental mess lol Assistant: When puma stopped making my dads favorite shoes, my mom dipped in a pair in bronze like people do for babies. It was pretty funny and they look great on a bookshelf.
Human: Effort management 3 years ago I did my first HM. I trained aiming for a sub 2 hours and end up doing 1h47. At the end I didn’t felt tired, I felt I could have done better. With the pandemic stuff I skipped a lot of training (but still training) and started focusing again this April. In 2 months I’ll do the same HM and try at least a sub 1h45. My question is: How do you know, mid race, that you can push? How do you manage your efforts to end a race knowing that you gave it all? I think I can do better than 1h45 and I would like to cross the finish line with the feeling that I did my best. Assistant: This is why most people run reverse splits. If your energy and ability is lower than you expect, you won't blow up and end up DNF or dragging yourself over the line. If you're feeling strong and fresh at the half way point, you can push a bit harder. Check in after every couple of miles after that and adjust as you go.	Human: Effort management 3 years ago I did my first HM. I trained aiming for a sub 2 hours and end up doing 1h47. At the end I didn’t felt tired, I felt I could have done better. With the pandemic stuff I skipped a lot of training (but still training) and started focusing again this April. In 2 months I’ll do the same HM and try at least a sub 1h45. My question is: How do you know, mid race, that you can push? How do you manage your efforts to end a race knowing that you gave it all? I think I can do better than 1h45 and I would like to cross the finish line with the feeling that I did my best. Assistant: First 3-4 km I'm running equally to my estimated pace for this race. Then I'm catching the flow (or not :) and I go according to my feeling (it is usually better than estimated pace), and for the last 5 km I'm pushing the pace. You need some experience in HM to know when you are on a flow and when you are burning yourself. You can get this knowledge only during long runs, so sorry there is no strict recipe how to assess your feelings.
Human: Low impact running alternatives? I went down with an injury last year and i haven't really been able to run right since then, and on top of that I've gained a bunch of weight. I've been trying to get my lungs back using an elliptical and bike, but are there any other good alternatives? Assistant: May I suggest walking?	Human: Low impact running alternatives? I went down with an injury last year and i haven't really been able to run right since then, and on top of that I've gained a bunch of weight. I've been trying to get my lungs back using an elliptical and bike, but are there any other good alternatives? Assistant: Swimming.
Human: Does anyone else get restless sleep after running? My most common run is a 5k. I know it’s not much for many here but it is pretty exhausting for me. After the run, I’m typically too hot and get restless sleep (even if I take a shower). I thought that’s because I run pretty late at night (2 hours before sleeping). Yesterday I ran in the early evening and rested well before sleeping. I had the same issue. I’m wondering if this happens to anyone else? And if so, how do you avoid or handle it? Assistant: I might be one of the rare ones who even after running at 8am, I still cannot sleep come midnight. I’m really sensitive to cortisol, so it kinda sucks to balance my boundless energy from running and screwing it all up by having poor sleep. The one experiment I’ve found that works is to run slow. Slow enough that when you finish your run, you’re like “that’s it?”. Over-exertion (tempo runs or higher) sets my cortisol levels pretty high throughout the day, so running reeaaal slow was key.	Human: Does anyone else get restless sleep after running? My most common run is a 5k. I know it’s not much for many here but it is pretty exhausting for me. After the run, I’m typically too hot and get restless sleep (even if I take a shower). I thought that’s because I run pretty late at night (2 hours before sleeping). Yesterday I ran in the early evening and rested well before sleeping. I had the same issue. I’m wondering if this happens to anyone else? And if so, how do you avoid or handle it? Assistant: I heard this is a common complaint among some, happens to me I sleep like shit if I run within like 5 hrs of trying to sleep, I'm just so wound up. If you consume caffeine try cutting back it may help. I have no other advice sadly.
Human: Does anyone else have too have there shoes loosely laced? When I lace my running shoes I basically have pull all the laces as loose as they will go, then bunch my toes and push my foot up and only tighten them lightly on my foot like that or I can't get a mile in with out my feet hurting and cramping. Good thing is I only have to do it once because I can slide my shoes on and off until I wear them out. Just curious to see if anyone else has this issue or not because everyone else I know sinches those bad boys uptight for their runs. Assistant: Yep, I tie my shoes as loosely as possible - just enough so that they stay on my feet. Otherwise, I get extensor tendonitis-like pain pretty easily!	Human: Does anyone else have too have there shoes loosely laced? When I lace my running shoes I basically have pull all the laces as loose as they will go, then bunch my toes and push my foot up and only tighten them lightly on my foot like that or I can't get a mile in with out my feet hurting and cramping. Good thing is I only have to do it once because I can slide my shoes on and off until I wear them out. Just curious to see if anyone else has this issue or not because everyone else I know sinches those bad boys uptight for their runs. Assistant: I have a similar issue but it's due to having flippers for feet, which also creates problems when I wear a rigid or semi-rigid heeled shoe, whatever the type. For running I try to get a shoe with a knitted upper like Nike Flex Experience as they are soft and compress around my feet so the laces don't have to be too tight.
Human: Training in a time of Covid - what's it like where you are? We've got the go ahead for sport to restart here in New Zealand, and so I'm heading back to proper training with real people for the first time in 3 months tomorrow. It feels like the first day back at school!! And not a minute too soon as we head into winter! I'm curious as to what is going on elsewhere in the world - I know that there have been small events going on in various places, but is group training restarting where you are? Are tracks, parks and trails open? Are people still having to train in living rooms and basements? And if races haven't restarted where you are, do you know when you'll get back to the starting line (likely to be August before big races start here). Assistant: Great news for you, hope the return to training goes well. In my state in the US we were allowed to do outside activities, so I never stopped running. My goal ultra was cancelled in May, so I dropped down to base training. I do have a 50 miler in Dec., but I'm not sure it will happen, but I will train for that goal.	Human: Training in a time of Covid - what's it like where you are? We've got the go ahead for sport to restart here in New Zealand, and so I'm heading back to proper training with real people for the first time in 3 months tomorrow. It feels like the first day back at school!! And not a minute too soon as we head into winter! I'm curious as to what is going on elsewhere in the world - I know that there have been small events going on in various places, but is group training restarting where you are? Are tracks, parks and trails open? Are people still having to train in living rooms and basements? And if races haven't restarted where you are, do you know when you'll get back to the starting line (likely to be August before big races start here). Assistant: Nothing much changed in Oz other than the size of the group. It got shrunk to pairs but I believe is now back to 20's. No official races just virtual stuff. Keenly waiting the go ahead for ParkRun though. Hopefully all this training will result in a 5k PB
Human: My city is getting a parkrun. What to expect? How different is it from any other 5k? My city is getting a parkrun with its first event scheduled in just 2 weeks. I know that parkruns are huge in the UK, but I see that there are barely 50 organized parkruns in the whole of the US each week. Conveniently, the parkrun will take place along one of my normal Saturday morning routes. How many people usually show up to these events? How competitive are people? Does anyone go all out or is it more like a group training run? Do they get cliquey? Assistant: Don't forget to volunteer! The parkrun volunteering roles are broken down to be super simple and some can be done while still getting your 5k in	Human: My city is getting a parkrun. What to expect? How different is it from any other 5k? My city is getting a parkrun with its first event scheduled in just 2 weeks. I know that parkruns are huge in the UK, but I see that there are barely 50 organized parkruns in the whole of the US each week. Conveniently, the parkrun will take place along one of my normal Saturday morning routes. How many people usually show up to these events? How competitive are people? Does anyone go all out or is it more like a group training run? Do they get cliquey? Assistant: Its great. I love them. Highly recommended. Often the first events are smaller -> 30-40 people, then often reach a steady state of 100-200 (though, anywhere between 2 and 1,000+). Not cliquey at all. Great community event. People wont be pushy (in uk or aus, at least). Try it out. Bring your parkrun barcode (free, easy to do online any time).
Human: When you buy multiple running shoes to have in rotation, do you buy several pairs of the same style or do you branch out? Why? I got thinking about this today as I was adding a new pair of shoes to Strava and was looking through some people that I follow, it seems there is a pretty fair mix of people that switch it up and those that "go with what they know" so it made me curious what differentiates between the two. Thoughts? Assistant: I have four or five pairs of the same shoe that I rotate from run to run. Also use a website called Shoe Kicker that searches the web for sales (Amazon usually has the lowest prices). I do get oddball color schemes, but I do save money.	Human: When you buy multiple running shoes to have in rotation, do you buy several pairs of the same style or do you branch out? Why? I got thinking about this today as I was adding a new pair of shoes to Strava and was looking through some people that I follow, it seems there is a pretty fair mix of people that switch it up and those that "go with what they know" so it made me curious what differentiates between the two. Thoughts? Assistant: Both. When I find a specific model of shoes that suit me at a price I like, I usually will buy 2 or 3 pairs, especially since nowadays most brands refresh and redesign their models yearly, and often not for the better, or they substantially raise the price on the new model, or they simply phase out the model entirely. But also at the same time, I need different models for different things (racing flats, marathon, trail running, etc).
Human: Let us know if you got in the 2019 NYC Marathon today! Best of luck everyone! Assistant: Last year, I was told I couldn't run anymore due to a spinal fracture. Last month, I was finally cleared to run again. And TODAY I FOUND OUT I WILL RUN THE NYC MARATHON!	Human: Let us know if you got in the 2019 NYC Marathon today! Best of luck everyone! Assistant: I didn’t want to do it anyway. I heard it’s not that great. I’m relieved actually. Gives me more time to focus on the Turkey Trot. 😩😩😩
Human: How reasonable is my goal of shaving 25 seconds off my mile splits in order to qualify for the Boston marathon I am planning on running a marathon in early December of this year. I have been thinking that at my current fitness level I could potentially qualify for the Boston Marathon during that race. I am a 25-year-old female, and in order to qualify for Boston, I would need to run a 3:30:00 marathon. I ran a 1:47:08 half marathon last month. Currently, on my long runs (10-14 miles), my average pace is 8:25. Given the fairly decent amount of time I have to train, do you think it is a reasonable goal to cut down my average pace to 8-minute miles or less? Assistant: You're running your long runs too fast. Get a book on marathon training and structure accordingly. Your half time needs to be a lot closer to 1:30 to be in range for a 3:30 full.	Human: How reasonable is my goal of shaving 25 seconds off my mile splits in order to qualify for the Boston marathon I am planning on running a marathon in early December of this year. I have been thinking that at my current fitness level I could potentially qualify for the Boston Marathon during that race. I am a 25-year-old female, and in order to qualify for Boston, I would need to run a 3:30:00 marathon. I ran a 1:47:08 half marathon last month. Currently, on my long runs (10-14 miles), my average pace is 8:25. Given the fairly decent amount of time I have to train, do you think it is a reasonable goal to cut down my average pace to 8-minute miles or less? Assistant: This doesn’t answer your question but I would aim for 3:20 marathon time to qualify for your age group - 3:25 might be okay but you’d be guaranteed with a 3:20.
Human: How much of a different beast is the marathon? What was your experience with your first? I am training for a half with the ultimate gull of eventually running a full and my long run just got to 20km yesterday. At the end of that run I was thinking about how having to do that again with some change to finish a marathon is incomprehensible. Wanted to hear what people's expectations vs realities of the marathon was and how the transition from half to full is. Assistant: To be honest, my first marathon was much like my first half marathon. I wasn't prepared enough, and I struggled in the final few kms. Of course, with the marathon your pain is drawn out much, much longer. I'm a lot fitter now and run halfs on my own reguarly, and once we can, I'll be signing up for another full!	Human: How much of a different beast is the marathon? What was your experience with your first? I am training for a half with the ultimate gull of eventually running a full and my long run just got to 20km yesterday. At the end of that run I was thinking about how having to do that again with some change to finish a marathon is incomprehensible. Wanted to hear what people's expectations vs realities of the marathon was and how the transition from half to full is. Assistant: Its a totally different beast. Training needs to be totally different. Halfs are pretty easy to run under trained and running relatively low weekly miles. Marathon training requires about twice the training volume. The race itself is not that big of a deal its the training aspect that really changes and requires a lot more time and dedication. People wig about the race being hard. The race is one day. Training is MONTHS. Thats what really tests how bad you want something.
Human: How do you keep your body at the best and how do you prepare yourself for your runs? Hello everyone. I started running last April to lose weight and now pretty much everything in my life is about running, but I am still fighting to run long distances. The furthest I can go now is 6km and I run 3 to 4 times a week. Sometimes I run 6km easily, no pain, feeling great and it gives me a boost during the rest of the day, but some days I can only run 3/4 km and almost dying (with voices in my head begging me to stop) with some pain on my legs and I feel tired for rest of the day. I guess my body has better/worse days, but my quest now it to always run in my best. So my question is, how do you keep your body at the best and how do you prepare yourself for your runs, avoiding injuries and reaching your goals in every run? Btw, I tried googling this but I am tired of lists like 10 ways to run better. I believe I can find better information with you guys! Thank you all = ) Assistant: I've realized that maintaining a healthy eating and sleeping schedule has helped tremendously with my runs. I focused a lot on how I could improve my runs while running, when I wasn't really taking care of my body when I wasn't running. Once I started making sure that I got 8 hours of sleep and ate healthier, my energy levels improved. That, in turn, helped with my runs.	Human: How do you keep your body at the best and how do you prepare yourself for your runs? Hello everyone. I started running last April to lose weight and now pretty much everything in my life is about running, but I am still fighting to run long distances. The furthest I can go now is 6km and I run 3 to 4 times a week. Sometimes I run 6km easily, no pain, feeling great and it gives me a boost during the rest of the day, but some days I can only run 3/4 km and almost dying (with voices in my head begging me to stop) with some pain on my legs and I feel tired for rest of the day. I guess my body has better/worse days, but my quest now it to always run in my best. So my question is, how do you keep your body at the best and how do you prepare yourself for your runs, avoiding injuries and reaching your goals in every run? Btw, I tried googling this but I am tired of lists like 10 ways to run better. I believe I can find better information with you guys! Thank you all = ) Assistant: STRETCH. Active stretching before your run, and static stretching/rolling out after your runs. You'll be amazed how much energy your legs actually have if you take a half hour to really stretch everything out. And yeah, slow it down, at least 2 runs a week should be so slow that you think "this is so crazy slow". Seems counterintuitive, but it'll allow you to go faster on the other days.
Human: Does anyone know of an app that you can put in a distance and it’ll loop you to your original location? Assistant: I’ve been using the new strava heat map to spot routes that I’ve not tried - Strava heat map. It does not measure the route but it’s not too hard to figure distance out!	Human: Does anyone know of an app that you can put in a distance and it’ll loop you to your original location? Assistant: I use https://us.mapometer.com/ , can be kinda awkward on mobile, but still gets the job done.. I tried routeloops based off recommendation in this thread, it had me go through a bunch of unfriendly (for running) areas, waiting on at least 4 red lights :\|
Human: What are some good gym exercises to supplement running? Looking for a good gym based routine to supplement my running. I’ll be doing these twice a week, after my runs on those days, I’m not trying to break my body just some workouts to aid my running. Assistant: Are you looking to work your upper body, core, or legs?	Human: What are some good gym exercises to supplement running? Looking for a good gym based routine to supplement my running. I’ll be doing these twice a week, after my runs on those days, I’m not trying to break my body just some workouts to aid my running. Assistant: I do box jumps! Haven't done them for long enough to be able to say for sure but it feels like it gives my legs that bit of explosiveness when needed.
Human: What are some good and enjoyable books about running? I’ve finished reading Born to Run and loved every single second of it! Now I would like to keep on reading in the ‘running genre’, so suggest me your favorites. I was thinking of reading Eat and Run or North from Scott Jerek next, but open for (better?) suggestions. Assistant: How Bad Do You Want It, by Matt Fitzgerald is a great book about the psychology of endurance sports. Really interesting.	Human: What are some good and enjoyable books about running? I’ve finished reading Born to Run and loved every single second of it! Now I would like to keep on reading in the ‘running genre’, so suggest me your favorites. I was thinking of reading Eat and Run or North from Scott Jerek next, but open for (better?) suggestions. Assistant: Running with the Kenyans by Adharanand Finn. This is a great read about a Brit writer (and seemingly a good runner himself) who moves from England to live amongst professional Kenyan runners. A very well written story that also delves into the reasons that Kenyans dominate the sport. You will learn a few tips as well. Highly recommend it. Good reads 3.87, Amazon 4.5,, sports book of the year award 2012 (No affiliation or interest whatsoever)
Human: New beginner runner into building better habits. What are some of yours? Hello, I'm a beginner runner who is trying to build better habits in my life. I respect runners for their discipline and mindset and was curious as other good habits they may or may not have. For example, some of my better habits are making my bed, good oral hygiene, relatively good diet, and meditation. Some of my bad habits which I'd like to improve upon include being impatient with my mom, watching too much TV, and procrastination. Would you like to share any of your habits good or bad? Thanks. Assistant: Know the difference between running through being tired and achy vs. running through an injury. Tired and achy works itself out. Injuries just get worse, and the more you run on them, the longer the recovery.	Human: New beginner runner into building better habits. What are some of yours? Hello, I'm a beginner runner who is trying to build better habits in my life. I respect runners for their discipline and mindset and was curious as other good habits they may or may not have. For example, some of my better habits are making my bed, good oral hygiene, relatively good diet, and meditation. Some of my bad habits which I'd like to improve upon include being impatient with my mom, watching too much TV, and procrastination. Would you like to share any of your habits good or bad? Thanks. Assistant: While my habits changed a lot after having a child the process to stay on track stayed the same. I’m a visual learner so I have a white board in my office with goals. If your goal is to reduce your TV time, simply seeing that goal on a regular basis keeps the thought on your mind. With all that being said, running is a great tool to clear your mind and give you some clarity in those tough decisions! You’re off to a great start, great work 💪🏼