The Plan!

My training plan comes from http://www.halhigdon.com/. Hal's plans are easy to follow and they are free to download. If you are ever looking for any kind of running plan, stop at Hal's first. I am going to be following the intermediate training plan as I have a pretty strong running base - I've been running for 10 years, and my long run each week is usually 6 miles. So, basically I'm halfway there! I also like that he advocates incorporating strength training & stretching into a running schedule. Core strength is especially essential for the distance runner. I love the stretching as it keeps the muscles elongated, and body parts are stretched out and elastic for the demands of running.
I am adjusting the beginning of my day 1 just slightly, as I am already used to running 6 miles on Sunday's. I will also be incorporating some cycling into my routine as I have a century (100 miles) ride two weeks after my half marathon.
Here we go!

Beginner 12 Week Schedule

Intermediate 12 Week Schedule

Ogden 1/2 Marathon

I was one of the fortunate few who was able to secure a spot in the upcoming Ogden Marathon which will take place on May 21, 2011. The event sold out in record time; partly due to an article which appeared in Runner's World magazine, which stated that Ogden was one of the "best" marathons to run. There were a lot of people that were disappointed that they were not able to get in ~ early birds get the worms.
I am particularly excited to run this race as Ogden is my hometown. I will be running the 1/2, which for you non-runners is 13.1 miles. The run begins up Ogden Canyon, and the first 7 miles will be running down through the canyon, then onto the river trail. I run the river trail every time I visit Ogden, so that part of the course will be very familiar to me. It will be interesting to see how a 4' wide trail will handle so many runners, as both the 1/2 and full distance will be using this route. The finish line is down Historic 24th street at the train station - flat, flat, flat! We runner's love flat running, because flat equals faster.
This will be my third half marathon. My previous two were in Las Vegas, so Ogden and it's altitude will be a new challenge.
I will be posting my daily runs, and schedule here, as well as tips, thoughts, and ideas as they come. I would love any input or questions.

Happy Trails!