DCM 2018 - Mentored Novice Thread

ASISEEIT · 10-05-2018 4:42pm

Kellygirl wrote: »

I don’t know of anybody who has done it that has regretted it and there is an incredible sense of achievement BUT it requires training and you have to have the motivation to do that or else the day could be a nightmare.

Why do you want to run a marathon? Are you prepared to do the training and put in the time? Did you enjoy the half marathons and more importantly the training?

Good question-do I enjoy the training. Answer-yes and no. I think like a lot of runners I enjoy the after effect more than the running.
I took a break running Nov-Feb and struggling to feel good after it at present. Tired a lot of times.

aloooof · 10-05-2018 4:49pm

skyblue46 wrote: »

How's it going. Paces for long runs vary according to plans but for novice runners they shouldn't be faster than your easy runs. Keep them at a pace that you could chat away if someone was with you without having to pause to grab a breath.

Have you done any races recently? Training paces should be based on where you are now fitness wise not on any target time in the future.

Is the plan your own or one you picked up elsewhere? If it's any comfort I recently did a half and had not done 30 minutes at pace in any one training run. I had doubts too about my ability to hold it for another 70 minutes but it worked out on the day. It's about the accumulation of your training.

Cheers for the reply!

I did the Great Ireland Run last month in 52:38 (8:28 min/mile pace) so I think the 9:09 I'm targeting for the Half is achievable? I'm following the Hal Higdon Half-Marathon Novice 2 plan from here. Good to know tho that it's more the accumulation than just the pace runs themselves. It worked out grand for the 10k race for me to be fair!

skyblue46 · 10-05-2018 5:17pm

aloooof wrote: »

Cheers for the reply!

I did the Great Ireland Run last month in 52:38 (8:28 min/mile pace) so I think the 9:09 I'm targeting for the Half is achievable? I'm following the Hal Higdon Half-Marathon Novice 2 plan from here. Good to know tho that it's more the accumulation than just the pace runs themselves. It worked out grand for the 10k race for me to be fair!

Well done. Achievable? Yes. A certainty? Definitely not. It will need good training. My own opinion is that 10:30 for a long run or an easy run is as fast as you should go. Personally I would actually slow it down a bit. Don't be afraid to be above 11 min/ miles. This would give you more benefit in the long term.

Corbally · 10-05-2018 5:36pm

Hi all.
I'm not sure if I'm ready to start training for a marathon but I'm going to give it a go. I've been running for 4 weeks after 4 or 5 years of no running. I'm on my feet all day in work and I am fairly active outside of work so on a scale of couch to 5k I am towards the 5k end.

When I was 23/24 I used to run a couple of times per month but I ran way too fast. Every run was a hard run. I still struggle to keep the pace slow.

For the last 4 weeks I have ran 5-6k 3/4 times. I will keep adding mileage for a few weeks and then decide if I will commit or not. Am I mad to think I can start a plan with only a few weeks base training?

Have you raced before? If so what are your PBs?
No race but doing 5ks approx 24mins at the moment. Doing Spar 5k next week so I'll know then.

Do you still need to take walk breaks in your training?
No

How much training do you currently do ? Distances, how many days a week, cross training - whatever you think is relevant to your current fitness level.
3/4 times per week, around 5k. 6.5k is the furthest I have run this year (but I think I could run 10k no problem).

What do you want to achieve? Dream finishing time and realistic finishing time? Or just complete it in no specified time?
I want to run the marathon. I don't want to run/walk. I'm not sure of a target time.

How many days a week can you train? And what plan do you intend to follow?
I can train 7 days per week if needed. I will follow the HH Novice 1 or the boards plan.

What is your biggest worry/fear/doubt (if you have any!) in signing up?
Biggest worry is finding out half way through the plan that my lack of base training will hold me back and I won't be able to do the milage.

Why are you running this marathon?
It's something I've wanted to do since I was a teenager.

ASISEEIT · 10-05-2018 6:50pm

Why run a marathon ?

brownbinman · 10-05-2018 9:03pm

anyone know when it sold out last year? still 50/50 but thinking ill sign up as have 5 months to go

quickbeam · 10-05-2018 9:12pm

brownbinman wrote: »

anyone know when it sold out last year? still 50/50 but thinking ill sign up as have 5 months to go

About 11th July - a day or two after I signed up. I cut it fine!

I'd expect it to sell out sooner this year though. It sems to be earlier and earlier every year from everything I've read.

brownbinman · 10-05-2018 9:15pm

quickbeam wrote: »

About 11th July - a day or two after I signed up. I cut it fine!

I'd expect it to sell out sooner this year though. It sems to be earlier and earlier every year from everything I've read.

Never mind, I just signed up. Balls to it

Kellygirl · 10-05-2018 10:09pm

hanksy123 wrote: »

Hi all.
I'm not sure if I'm ready to start training for a marathon but I'm going to give it a go. I've been running for 4 weeks after 4 or 5 years of no running. I'm on my feet all day in work and I am fairly active outside of work so on a scale of couch to 5k I am towards the 5k end.

When I was 23/24 I used to run a couple of times per month but I ran way too fast. Every run was a hard run. I still struggle to keep the pace slow.

For the last 4 weeks I have ran 5-6k 3/4 times. I will keep adding mileage for a few weeks and then decide if I will commit or not. Am I mad to think I can start a plan with only a few weeks base training?

Have you raced before? If so what are your PBs?
No race but doing 5ks approx 24mins at the moment. Doing Spar 5k next week so I'll know then.

Do you still need to take walk breaks in your training?
No

How much training do you currently do ? Distances, how many days a week, cross training - whatever you think is relevant to your current fitness level.
3/4 times per week, around 5k. 6.5k is the furthest I have run this year (but I think I could run 10k no problem).

What do you want to achieve? Dream finishing time and realistic finishing time? Or just complete it in no specified time?
I want to run the marathon. I don't want to run/walk. I'm not sure of a target time.

How many days a week can you train? And what plan do you intend to follow?
I can train 7 days per week if needed. I will follow the HH Novice 1 or the boards plan.

What is your biggest worry/fear/doubt (if you have any!) in signing up?
Biggest worry is finding out half way through the plan that my lack of base training will hold me back and I won't be able to do the milage.

Why are you running this marathon?
It's something I've wanted to do since I was a teenager.

Welcome Hanksy123.

We are probably all half mad here. It is a big undertaking though and the one thing I’d say is be extremely careful building up the mileage as you could be very prone to injury if you build too fast. Last thing you want is to end up with shin splints or something. Make sure you are running slowly and easy. You should not be pushing yourself in your training runs.

The Black Oil · 10-05-2018 10:26pm

ASISEEIT wrote: »

Why run a marathon ?

To see what all the fuss is about
To line up with a few thousand others on a day that could be beautiful or damp
To chat to the pacers
To amuse yourself
To have structure to your training and enjoy the journey to the big day
To have something in the diary to aim for
To juggle different bits of a course
To be ready the night before
To feel the emotional bits

To yap away on here and know you're not completely alone
To be so knackered some evenings your brain/body goes...ehh

coogy · 10-05-2018 11:38pm

Ok, so on the back of the sound advice from some folk here, I tried my best to peg it back a little for my run this evening. It was a lot more difficult than I thought and I had to keep reminding myself to slow down when it felt like I was slipping back into my usual pace (which, I must add, always felt like an easy going enough pace to me).
I covered 8 miles but I was only less than a minute slower for my average pace per mile which surprised me. I definitely felt much better than I normally would and had more than enough left in the tank to stretch to the 10 miles.
I think I will try to slow things down even more for my next run and see how I get on.

Kellygirl · 11-05-2018 8:24am

coogy wrote: »

Ok, so on the back of the sound advice from some folk here, I tried my best to peg it back a little for my run this evening. It was a lot more difficult than I thought and I had to keep reminding myself to slow down when it felt like I was slipping back into my usual pace (which, I must add, always felt like an easy going enough pace to me).
I covered 8 miles but I was only less than a minute slower for my average pace per mile which surprised me. I definitely felt much better than I normally would and had more than enough left in the tank to stretch to the 10 miles.
I think I will try to slow things down even more for my next run and see how I get on.

Well done for trying Coogy. I found it very hard at the start to slow down and it does feel really strange but you get used to it and it becomes enjoyable after a while to be going out for a nice slow run and to barely break a sweat.

coogy · 11-05-2018 9:00am

Kellygirl wrote: »

Well done for trying Coogy. I found it very hard at the start to slow down and it does feel really strange but you get used to it and it becomes enjoyable after a while to be going out for a nice slow run and to barely break a sweat.

Yeah, I felt a lot calmer on this run and way more in control of my breathing too which I barely had to think about.
I'm enjoying running so much, my only regret is that I didn't take it up sooner. It feels so natural to me to run these kind of distances, anyone else feel that way?

sumsar · 11-05-2018 11:32am

coogy wrote: »

Kellygirl wrote: »

Well done for trying Coogy. I found it very hard at the start to slow down and it does feel really strange but you get used to it and it becomes enjoyable after a while to be going out for a nice slow run and to barely break a sweat.

Yeah, I felt a lot calmer on this run and way more in control of my breathing too which I barely had to think about.
I'm enjoying running so much, my only regret is that I didn't take it up sooner. It feels so natural to me to run these kind of distances, anyone else feel that way?

Right now I'm back as base level but when I was fit, I enjoyed jogging / running, but I've always been overweight and hated any sport or exercise so it was a surprise to me how much I enjoyed it..

skyblue46 · 11-05-2018 11:35am

coogy wrote: »

Yeah, I felt a lot calmer on this run and way more in control of my breathing too which I barely had to think about.
I'm enjoying running so much, my only regret is that I didn't take it up sooner. It feels so natural to me to run these kind of distances, anyone else feel that way?

Yes I share those feelings! You're still relatively young though, enjoy the years ahead. Keep us posted on how the runs go and try to get a few races in over the next few weeks.

ariana` · 11-05-2018 1:50pm

Hi and welcome hansky123. Marathon training is a big undertaking on the back of 4 weeks running, i would suggest you use the HHN1 plan this time, have no fear of that it will get you around but it is the easier of the two plans and i think it will suit you. My big fear for you is the injury risk with the sudden increase in mileage (kellygirl has already mentioned the dreaded shin splints). Please build up your runs slowly over the next few weeks and keep everything nice and easy, the mileage will be ramp up once we get started into the plans so we need you in good shape come June 25th

ariana` · 11-05-2018 1:52pm

coogy wrote: »

Yeah, I felt a lot calmer on this run and way more in control of my breathing too which I barely had to think about.
I'm enjoying running so much, my only regret is that I didn't take it up sooner. It feels so natural to me to run these kind of distances, anyone else feel that way?

sumsar wrote: »

Right now I'm back as base level but when I was fit, I enjoyed jogging / running, but I've always been overweight and hated any sport or exercise so it was a surprise to me how much I enjoyed it..

Ah the running bug takes a few more victims....

Kellygirl · 11-05-2018 2:27pm

coogy wrote: »

Yeah, I felt a lot calmer on this run and way more in control of my breathing too which I barely had to think about.
I'm enjoying running so much, my only regret is that I didn't take it up sooner. It feels so natural to me to run these kind of distances, anyone else feel that way?

That’s brilliant you are enjoying it. I’d say try going a whole minute slower per mile next run and see how you go and how you feel after.

Redzer27 · 11-05-2018 4:37pm

Have I raced before yes Balbriggan 10k and 1.16
Training breaks are needed
2x5k and 1x10k per week
I just want to finish a marathon
I can train 3/4
My biggest fear is I give up
It’s on my bucket list

Lazare · 12-05-2018 12:17am

roosterman71 wrote: »

She thinks I'm crazy of course but I've convinced her the long runs would be only around 3 hours so I might just get away with it

Hey Roosterman, I'm the guy from last year that welcomed the bambino and added madness to the madness.

My situation was a little different to yours in a couple of ways. Our little one arrived mid September, paternity leave gave me a good bit of flexibility to get the quality running in, by the time I was back in work it was almost taper time. Plus, she wasn't our first baby.

I won't sugar coat it, It will be tough for you, no doubt, there's a lot of hands on work for both parents on your first but it is doable. You may find yourself reassessing goals, but tbh, you won't care about it. You'll be floating on a such a high from the new bundle.

If you don't currently run early mornings I'd get used to that as you'll likely be running at various different times of the day depending on when the new boss naps.

Very best of luck with everything.

Mr. Guappa · 12-05-2018 10:38am

I signed up for DCM a few weeks back and have been keeping an eye out for this thread since.
I'm mid-30's, started running 3 years ago, completed a couch to 5k, and got up to a 59:00 10k after about a year. Let the running drift almost completely then for another year, before re-focusing last May, and I'm really enjoying it this time around.

Similar to RunningFlyer, I work shift in a very inactive role. A mix of long days and nights where I don't have the time or energy before or after work to do much training.

Until very recently I tended to run every run flat out, which I now realise is not the correct approach.
I ran 15k on Thursday at an easy 6.28/km, would previously have been doing that at about 5:40/km.
Should I change my thought process to miles as opposed to km? Seems that most people here go by miles?

I've had knee trouble due to running in the past, but this seems to have cleared up now, thanks to a better choice of runner, some physio and increased stretching and foam rolling.

I don't really have a typical week, given my shift pattern, but it would approximate to something like:
RUN--REST--RUN--REST--RUN--WORK--WORK--WORK--WORK--RUN--REST.. if that makes sense.

I had been reluctant to run during the REST days, preferring to RUN every second day, in part due to concern over my knees, but mainly to allow recovery following what would have been a pacy run the day before. I'm now thinking that more easy runs will allow me to add sessions on the REST days.

I'm also currently training for a HM in early July. Not really following a strict plan. I try to fit in one long run every 8-10 days, adding a km or so each time (15km most recently). Then I'll fit in whatever short runs (6-9km) I can around that.

Have you raced before? If so what are your PBs? (Date and distance please!)

10 mile April 2018: 1:23:17
10k March 2018: 48:30
5k February 2018: 23:19

Do you still need to take walk breaks in your training? (No problem if you do)
No

How much training do you currently do ? Distances, how many days a week, cross training - whatever you think is relevant to your current fitness level.

Approx 21km per week at present, working on gradually increasing this.
Average runs per week is 2.5 at present.
I'd also throw in the very odd walk, maybe two a month.
I try to do at least some bit of stretching and foam rolling every day.
In an 8-10 day period I'll typically do a long run (12k+), a 9k and a 6.5k.
Most of these would have been at 5:30/km or faster.

What do you want to achieve? Dream finishing time and realistic finishing time? Or just complete it in no specified time?

I'd like to do it under 4:00:00. This seems a realistic aim looking at some calculators I've checked.

How many days a week can you train? And what plan do you intend to follow?

Days available per week depends on shift pattern, but typically 3-4, condensed together. I want to try and squeeze in a short home yoga session on one of my WORK days also.

I'm currently reading the Hal Higdon book, and I've looked at some of the various plans on here, but nothing currently decided. It will probably be some mutated combination of different plans, adjusted to suit my schedule.

What is your biggest worry/fear/doubt (if you have any!) in signing up?

Not getting to the start line.
Not getting to the finish line.

Why are you running this marathon?

I like running. I like the sense of achievement in running a long distance.
It's been a goal of mine for a number of years. It was a pie-in-the-sky type of ridiculous target a few years ago, but now it feels attainable.
I've 2 young kids, and want to set a good example for them.

whiskey_sour · 12-05-2018 2:18pm

[justify]Hi there, thanks for starting the thread Ariana…I’m sure this will be my lifeline over the next few months. I’m not sure if I’m definitely going to go ahead with the marathon this year but I said I’d join and start out the training and see how I get on. I’ve been running (slowly!) on and off for the past 5/6 years or so but last year was a complete write off. I’ve been getting out consistently 4/5 times a week since January and have been slowly building up the mileage since I didn’t get out much last year…Ideally I know this isn’t much of a base to work off but every year I’ve wanted to run it something has come up… this year I feel like I can definitely commit and God knows when that’ll happen again[/justify]
[font=Arial, sans-serif]Have you raced before? If so what are your PBs? (Date and distance please!)[/font]
I’ve done plenty of races over the years but none recently…my last times are from 2016
Irish Runner 5 mile 2016: 45min
Parkrun: 27min
10k: 56min
[font=Arial, sans-serif]
Do you still need to take walk breaks in your training? (No problem if you do)[/font]
No just to cross roads and take water on hot days
[font=Arial, sans-serif]
How much training do you currently do? Distances, how many days a week, cross training - whatever you think is relevant to your current fitness level.[/font]
I run 5k 4 times a week and have been doing a 5miler on the weekends the past 3 weeks. I also do pilates/yoga once or twice a week.

[font=Arial, sans-serif]What do you want to achieve? Dream finishing time and realistic finishing time?[/font][font=Arial, sans-serif] Or just complete it in no specified time?[/font]
Dream is to get under 4 and a half hours but realistically I know I should be happy just to run the whole thing.
[font=Arial, sans-serif]
How many days a week can you train? And what plan do you intend to follow?[/font]
I’ve been running 5 days a week and can keep that up but most novice type plans only have 4 days running…I’m not sure if I should just cut back to 4 days or add an extra day to those plans? The boards plan is definitely too advanced for me so I’m thinking HHN2…
[font=Arial, sans-serif]
What is your biggest worry/fear/doubt (if you have any!) in signing up? [/font]
Getting injured!!
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Why are you running this marathon?[/font]

My first race was the WMM about 7 years ago and I’ve wanted to run the DCM ever since! I’m a Dub so have always wanted DCM to be my first marathon as I think the atmosphere will really help get me through.

mrs happyfeet · 12-05-2018 4:25pm

Hi Everyone - delighted to be part of this group.
I'm a 38 year old mam of 3. Joined my local fit4life group back in September . Before that I had been doing the very odd parkrun and did Dublin 1/2 marathon and Munich 1/2 back in 2012.
Have you raced before? If so what are your PBs? 5k PB is 27.20 which was about 2 years ago, theses days I'm happy to get under the 30min
10k PB was 1.01 in 2016
Dublin 1/2 was 2:10
Munich 1/2 2:18
Trim 10 mile 2018 1:43
Bohermeen 1/2 earlier this tear was 2:40 but upset tummy and toilet stop etc
Do you still need to take walk breaks in your training? for the trim 10 mile and Bohermeen 1/2 I did run 6min walk 1 min which I found brilliant but since then I've been running and taking a small break maybe every 5k or so to get water etc.

How much training do you currently do ? try to get out for 2 short runs maybe 7-8 k usually Mon and Thurs and long run on Saturday mornings which is up to 9 miles. have done this long run 4 times.
What do you want to achieve? finish the marathon
Dream finishing time and realistic finishing time? Or just complete it in no specified time? Just complete it and hopefully run most of it
How many days a week can you train? And what plan do you intend to follow? 4 days a week and hoping to follow HHnovice2
What is your biggest worry/fear/doubt (if you have any!) in signing up? really want to avoid injury
Why are you running this marathon? something I've wanted to do for the last few years - I go in to watch it every year and always feel super motivated after watching everyone.

skyblue46 · 12-05-2018 5:49pm

Good to have you here Mrs happyfeet and whiskey sour. I can't wait to see how your training develops. It'll be worth it for sure and will make all the sacrifices worthwhile.

The Black Oil · 13-05-2018 9:17pm

Good to hear about the efforts at slowing down. You'll get used to and slip into this rhythm easily after a while, the reward for doing so will come later.

Kellygirl · 13-05-2018 9:49pm

Welcome Redzer27, Mr. Guappa, Whiskey Sour and Mrs Happyfeet,

Mr. Guappa wrote: »

Should I change my thought process to miles as opposed to km? Seems that most people here go by miles?

I've had knee trouble due to running in the past, but this seems to have cleared up now, thanks to a better choice of runner, some physio and increased stretching and foam rolling.

Totally upto you whether you want to do miles or kilometers. I used to do kilometers but when I did DCM last year I wore a paceband and 42kms meant a lot of info. Wasn’t a serious problem but changed to miles after. Has taken ages to get used to and still working on it. Go with whatever suits you.

whiskey_sour wrote: »

How many days a week can you train? And what plan do you intend to follow?[/font][/size]
I’ve been running 5 days a week and can keep that up but most novice type plans only have 4 days running…I’m not sure if I should just cut back to 4 days or add an extra day to those plans? The boards plan is definitely too advanced for me so I’m thinking HHN2…
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What do you think is too advanced about the Boards plan out of interest?

I don’t see why you’d have to cut back a day if you do say HHN2 as you could do as the Boards plan does and have that day as rest, cross training or a 3 mile recovery run which is just a really slow run.

skyblue46 · 13-05-2018 9:57pm

Yes whiskey_sour I agree with K on this. If you are used to running 5 days a week there is no reason to drop back to 4. The only thing that could make the boards plan too advanced is over ambitious paces for the PMP sessions. If you are realistic with this then the plan is very doable.

coogy · 13-05-2018 10:21pm

Just completed my first 10 mile run.
Great feeling!!!
Really feels like this is another milestone in the build up to the actual training schedule. Bring it on!!

Kellygirl · 13-05-2018 10:27pm

coogy wrote: »

Just completed my first 10 mile run.
Great feeling!!!
Really feels like this is another milestone in the build up to the actual training schedule. Bring it on!!

Well done Coogy! 10 miles is a great distance. Nice start to the week for you.

whiskey_sour · 13-05-2018 10:30pm

Hi Kellygirl and skyblue46, thanks for the advice! My worry about the boards plan is that the long runs increase very quickly for me! I haven't gone longer than 10k in over a year and I'm worried if I take on too much too soon that I'll get injured. I guess I still have a few weeks before I decide which to go with so can see how training goes until then....

Kellygirl · 13-05-2018 10:35pm

whiskey_sour wrote: »

Hi Kellygirl and skyblue46, thanks for the advice! My worry about the boards plan is that the long runs increase very quickly for me! I haven't gone longer than 10k in over a year and I'm worried if I take on too much too soon that I'll get injured. I guess I still have a few weeks before I decide which to go with so can see how training goes until then....

I was wondering if it was that part alright. I think increase the distance in one run a week over the next while and let’s see how you are going then. You are right to be cautious.

Strawberry Swan · 13-05-2018 11:29pm

Hey guys, I would like to join ye on this journey, although I'm not a novice. Hope that's ok? I did one marathon before, DCM in 2010. It was great but I was a lot fitter and thinner back then! Will do my best to reverse those changes this year. For the past 8 years I've been trying to get back into running but never managing it for any length of time but I'm more settled now and healthy and ready to commit. I've managed to run consistently since January and built up my mileage gradually. I supported DCM last year and was so jealous of all the red faces going by I thought "I want to be one of them next year"

Have you raced before? If so what are your PBs? (Date and distance please!)
Yes, but many years ago. Most of my pb's are out of date.

DCM 2010 in 4.15. It was very enjoyable and a memory I cherish.
Terenure 5 mile (today) - 45.44
3k - 15.22

Do you still need to take walk breaks in your training? (No problem if you do)
No

How much training do you currently do ? Distances, how many days a week, cross training - whatever you think is relevant to your current fitness level.
I run 3 days per week, no more then 15 miles per week. One speed session, one steady run and one long run, 10 miles as of Friday. Cycle commute to work 3 days pw, only 3 miles each way. And 1 strength and conditioning gym class a week. Plan to do one more at home myself.

What do you want to achieve? Dream finishing time and realistic finishing time? Or just complete it in no specified time?
I guess anything under 4.30 would be good. I would love to beat my previous time but know that I probably don't have the mileage in me as I'm only getting back to running consistently this year.

How many days a week can you train? And what plan do you intend to follow?
I hope to train 4 or maybe even 5 days a week. Not sure yet what plan to follow. I did Hal Higdon plan before which worked well

What is your biggest worry/fear/doubt (if you have any!) in signing up?
Getting injured again. I got Patellar tendinitis last year and had to stop running completely for 3 months.

Why are you running this marathon?
I love running long distance and this is a great goal to aim for. Give myself a challenge and something to work towards. I think it'll help me achieve smaller goals I have.

skyblue46 · 14-05-2018 12:43pm

coogy wrote: »

Just completed my first 10 mile run.
Great feeling!!!
Really feels like this is another milestone in the build up to the actual training schedule. Bring it on!!

Well done! Now a question from the sensible pace department.....how slow did you go?

ariana` · 14-05-2018 1:04pm

Wow great activity over the weekend while i was MIA :pac: Welcome Redzer27, whiskey_sour, MrsHappyfeet and Strawberry Swan! I hope i haven't missed anyone - apologies if i have

Redzer have you thought about which plan you will follow? I think the HH will suit you. Don't worry about giving up. This group is fantastic for accountability. Knowing i had to report to this group really got me through a few tough runs last year. When i wanted to quit i'd be thinking how can i justify it to everyone on boards... and well then it became easier to finish the tough run than come up with a good reason

Whiskysour, you are right the atmosphere is Dublin is amazing, it really will get you through, it's phenomenal. There is nothing in the world like it. Don't worry about injury, you are doing all the right things by doing some yoga/pilates. Keep a check on the pace of all your runs and keep the increases in mileage small and everything should be ok.

MrsHappyfeet, well done on taking the plunge. I'm a mum to 3 kids also so i know how busy that can be but it's also important to make some time for ourselves right

Now would be a good time to introduce the 4th running day so you get used it before the plan starts, don't increase the distance of your other runs until you've done the 4 runs for a couple of weeks and keep the 4th run short - no more than 5k initially.

Strawberry swan 4:15 was a great time and that experience will stand to you even though it is a few years ago. You seem to be well on top of the training already too, a 10 mile long run is a great starting point and i love the mention of s&C as well

whiskey_sour wrote: »

Hi Kellygirl and skyblue46, thanks for the advice! My worry about the boards plan is that the long runs increase very quickly for me! I haven't gone longer than 10k in over a year and I'm worried if I take on too much too soon that I'll get injured. I guess I still have a few weeks before I decide which to go with so can see how training goes until then....

I think this is a good approach. Also you could start the Boards plan and if you're finding it too tough you could switch after a few weeks.

coogy wrote: »

Just completed my first 10 mile run.
Great feeling!!!
Really feels like this is another milestone in the build up to the actual training schedule. Bring it on!!

Wohoo well done! I hope you kept it easssssssy

Rossi7 · 14-05-2018 1:25pm

Rossi they are good numbers you have there to indicate a Sub 4 is more than achievable. It'll be interesting to see how you go in Tallaght and Terenure to get a good picture of where you're at right now. The 5k time indicates lots of improvement is likely on your 5 mile and 10k times. Enjoy the races and even more so this thread!

Just to give you skyblue46 an update on my Tallaght and Terenure adventures over the last two weeks, knocked off 6 secs and 3.26 off both pb's. Disappointed with yesterdays 5 miler as I went off too conservative with the 40 pacers and should of really bit the bullet with the 35's. Lesson learned for the next one.
Will concentrate on those four sessions per week you advised me on and that will bring me up to the start of the marathon block. Might get try get a 10k race in before hand

skyblue46 · 14-05-2018 2:57pm

Rossi7 wrote: »

Rossi they are good numbers you have there to indicate a Sub 4 is more than achievable. It'll be interesting to see how you go in Tallaght and Terenure to get a good picture of where you're at right now. The 5k time indicates lots of improvement is likely on your 5 mile and 10k times. Enjoy the races and even more so this thread!

Just to give you skyblue46 an update on my Tallaght and Terenure adventures over the last two weeks, knocked off 6 secs and 3.26 off both pb's. Disappointed with yesterdays 5 miler as I went off too conservative with the 40 pacers and should of really bit the bullet with the 35's. Lesson learned for the next one.
Will concentrate on those four sessions per week you advised me on and that will bring me up to the start of the marathon block. Might get try get a 10k race in before hand

Lesson learned! Yeah I saw both on Strava. The 5 mile surprised me alright as the 5k time suggests a 5 mile of 35:40-36:00 minutes. I'd be giving the pacers a miss as it helps you learn to regulate your own pace. For a 10k you should look at doing 4:30 per Km in a race and see how it goes.

That being said, never turn down a PB. It's a reward for the training and hard work you've put in.

Hobbyjogger · 14-05-2018 3:46pm

Just wanted to check in as it's been awhile, and to report that I too have tried the slowing down on easy runs from the advice here and can recommend it! I'm always worried about "losing speed" but I was 10 seconds off of a PB on a much hillier course in a 5k race this week after slowing down in training so thanks for the advice!

Also, looking forward to the medal reveal - I see Constance Markievicz is going to be the face of it this year #girlpower :-P

ariana` · 14-05-2018 4:05pm

Hobbyjogger wrote: »

Just wanted to check in as it's been awhile, and to report that I too have tried the slowing down on easy runs from the advice here and can recommend it! I'm always worried about "losing speed" but I was 10 seconds off of a PB on a much hillier course in a 5k race this week after slowing down in training so thanks for the advice!

Also, looking forward to the medal reveal - I see Constance Markievicz is going to be the face of it this year #girlpower :-P

Brilliant - thanks for the update and I'm delighted you are seeing the benefits of slowing down, this will really stand to you especially as the mileage increases and the cumulative fatigue sets in.

I'm dying to see the medal too

imknackered · 14-05-2018 4:39pm

I stupidly played football last wednesday for the first time in years, legs were shot for days afterwards and had to skip a training run. I was still feeling the effects at the Terenure 5mile yesterday. Ran a PB time but if i had been 100% i reckon it could have been better.

Tough day for it in Terenure for anyone else who did it, very warm day with a headwind on the slight uphill sections.

Have the streets of dublin 5k this weekend so my training will be an 6x800 interval session, 14k LSR midweek and then the race on sunday

coogy · 14-05-2018 6:57pm

skyblue46 wrote: »

Well done! Now a question from the sensible pace department.....how slow did you go?

Well, average pace was 7:37. I honestly tried to do a slower pace than my previous 8 mile run last week and I genuinely thought I was.
I think its going to take me a few more runs to become used to a slower pace.

coogy · 14-05-2018 7:05pm

ariana` wrote: »

Wow great activity over the weekend while i was MIA :pac: Welcome Redzer27, whiskey_sour, MrsHappyfeet and Strawberry Swan! I hope i haven't missed anyone - apologies if i have

Redzer have you thought about which plan you will follow? I think the HH will suit you. Don't worry about giving up. This group is fantastic for accountability. Knowing i had to report to this group really got me through a few tough runs last year. When i wanted to quit i'd be thinking how can i justify it to everyone on boards... and well then it became easier to finish the tough run than come up with a good reason

Whiskysour, you are right the atmosphere is Dublin is amazing, it really will get you through, it's phenomenal. There is nothing in the world like it. Don't worry about injury, you are doing all the right things by doing some yoga/pilates. Keep a check on the pace of all your runs and keep the increases in mileage small and everything should be ok.

MrsHappyfeet, well done on taking the plunge. I'm a mum to 3 kids also so i know how busy that can be but it's also important to make some time for ourselves right Now would be a good time to introduce the 4th running day so you get used it before the plan starts, don't increase the distance of your other runs until you've done the 4 runs for a couple of weeks and keep the 4th run short - no more than 5k initially.

Strawberry swan 4:15 was a great time and that experience will stand to you even though it is a few years ago. You seem to be well on top of the training already too, a 10 mile long run is a great starting point and i love the mention of s&C as well

I think this is a good approach. Also you could start the Boards plan and if you're finding it too tough you could switch after a few weeks.

Wohoo well done! I hope you kept it easssssssy

Trying my best!!ðŸ˜

skyblue46 · 14-05-2018 7:09pm

coogy wrote: »

Well, average pace was 7:37. I honestly tried to do a slower pace than my previous 8 mile run last week and I genuinely thought I was.
I think its going to take me a few more runs to become used to a slower pace.

Dare I ask what time you think you could run a 10 mile race? :eek:

coogy · 14-05-2018 7:20pm

skyblue46 wrote: »

Dare I ask what time you think you could run a 10 mile race? :eek:

I couldnt tell you but the more I run, the more realistic my sub 4 goal is becoming.
Feeling really confident of getting a good time but not getting carried away though.

skyblue46 · 14-05-2018 7:28pm

coogy wrote: »

I couldnt tell you but the more I run, the more realistic my sub 4 goal is becoming.
Feeling really confident of getting a good time but not getting carried away though.

IF you start training sensibly you will not be concerned with 4 hours but will have loftier targets. However you really have to get a grip on easy running. Lads who run 62 min 10 mile races, low 1:20 HM or 3 hr approx marathons rarely run below 8 minute miles for easy runs.

Swashbuckler · 14-05-2018 7:52pm

coogy wrote:

Well, average pace was 7:37. I honestly tried to do a slower pace than my previous 8 mile run last week and I genuinely thought I was. I think its going to take me a few more runs to become used to a slower pace.

I feel the need to give you some advice. Slow it way way down. My easy and long runs are never any quicker than 8 minutes per mile pace. It's a common enough mistake to make. Slow riggggght down!

Redzer27 · 14-05-2018 7:59pm

Thanks Ariana I’ve done a few 10k I am going to follow the Hh program and have booked 3 more 10ks I’m booked for a 10 mile and a half so the intentions are all positive

coogy · 14-05-2018 8:06pm

skyblue46 wrote: »

IF you start training sensibly you will not be concerned with 4 hours but will have loftier targets. However you really have to get a grip on easy running. Lads who run 62 min 10 mile races, low 1:20 HM or 3 hr approx marathons rarely run below 8 minute miles for easy runs.

Thanks skyblue46. The penny is definitely beginning to drop.......
Will continue to post updates!

Safiri · 14-05-2018 8:11pm

Swashbuckler wrote: »

I feel the need to give you some advice. Slow it way way down. My easy and long runs are never any quicker than 8 minutes per mile pace. It's a common enough mistake to make. Slow riggggght down!

+1 to all the above. Swashbuckler has a 1:21 half marathon best and those are the paces he runs for easy. I ran 1:25 for the half last year and would rarely crack 8:20 pace on an easy run, the vast majority were in the 8:30-8:45 range. There's an old adage from coaches about the easy run that says you should be embarrassed to be seen running at easy pace.

I can say one thing though coogy, I see some potential in you to go much faster than your 4 hour target come raceday. But that comes with a caveat, that caveat is getting the basics down and running within yourself in training. You do that and who knows how fast you will be in 5 months time.

Lazare · 14-05-2018 8:26pm

Last year (and I'm sure every year) in the beginning of the thread and up to plans starting it was drummed into us the vital importance of easy running and slowing down.

It took a bit for it to sink in with me, and others.

It sounds counterproductive. It's far from it.

One reason is injury avoidance but the most important reason by far is the development of a strong aerobic engine.

The marathon is a hugely rewarding race, you will be swimming with endorphins for weeks afterwards, but it is a tough endurance event. You endure it by developing strong lungs that flood blood with oxygen and a strong heart muscle to efficiently pump that to your legs.

Running slow and easy (aerobic exercise) works this system and strengthens it. You slow things right down so you can withstand more time running and working it and minimal time recovering.

When you cross the threshold into anaerobic excersise you are no longer building that engine. That's fine for a weekly session, or if you were training for the mile. If you want to run 26.2 however you need to run slow and easy. Almost all of the time.

I followed the boards plan last year and from the time it started in late June until almost December other than strides and a handful of hill sprints I never once ran faster than marathon pace. Even that took up approx 10% of running. Everything else was slow and easy.

You've got to trust this.

If you think you're running slow enough, slow down.

coogy · 14-05-2018 9:00pm

Lazare wrote: »

Last year (and I'm sure every year) in the beginning of the thread and up to plans starting it was drummed into us the vital importance of easy running and slowing down.

It took a bit for it to sink in with me, and others.

It sounds counterproductive. It's far from it.

One reason is injury avoidance but the most important reason by far is the development of a strong aerobic engine.

The marathon is a hugely rewarding race, you will be swimming with endorphins for weeks afterwards, but it is a tough endurance event. You endure it by developing strong lungs that flood blood with oxygen and a strong heart muscle to efficiently pump that to your legs.

Running slow and easy (aerobic exercise) works this system and strengthens it. You slow things right down so you can withstand more time running and working it and minimal time recovering.

When you cross the threshold into anaerobic excersise you are no longer building that engine. That's fine for a weekly session, or if you were training for the mile. If you want to run 26.2 however you need to run slow and easy. Almost all of the time.

I followed the boards plan last year and from the time it started in late June until almost December other than strides and a handful of hill sprints I never once ran faster than marathon pace. Even that took up approx 10% of running. Everything else was slow and easy.

You've got to trust this.

If you think you're running slow enough, slow down.

Thank you all so much for this advice! It all makes so much sense.
I think it might be easier for me to start off at a slower pace for the shorter distances and work my way up bit by bit for the longer runs.
Onwards and upwards! ðŸ˜

DCM 2018 - Mentored Novice Thread

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