What I've Learned So Far on My Road to 13.1

This is my third post about my training for my first half marathon (previous posts here and here). First things first, my fundraising period is coming to a close. In order for me to secure my spot in the New York City 1/2 marathon I need to raise another $250 by Monday, February 25th. Interested in sponsoring me? You can Donate Here. Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County is a 501c3 organization, and all donations can be used as a tax deduction for 2013.

Running training update: I have been reading lots of running blogs and articles to try and prepare myself for what lies ahead. One of the articles was about long distance races and the mistakes that first time runners make. I decided that I don't want to fall victim to the same errors, and opted to take the professionals advice.

I guess the most important thing that I learned is training for a road race on a treadmill is NOT the way to go. Up until this past Saturday all of my running was on the treadmill because I'm a real baby about the cold. Armed with my credit card I headed over to REI on Saturday and decided to get the gear I would need to get me through my 6 mile run outdoors: a pair of heavy running pants, new wind resistant gloves, a buff and a new sports bra (I cannot praise this enough, well worth the cost). I went home, suited up and headed to Saddle River Park to get my first outdoor run of my training under my belt. I wanted to do the 6 miles in 1 hour, but ended up doing it in about 1 hour 10 minutes. The lesson I learned on my run was this: know when sundown is, and allow yourself plenty of time to complete your workout and make it back to your car. All ended well, and my car wasn't locked into the parking lot for being there after official park closing, however my run probably would have taken closer to 1:20 if I wasn't so worried that I would be unable to leave.

On Sunday I ran a 10 mile relay (split between 3 runners) with my sister and a friend. I was the slowest member of my team and finished my leg in 37:22; which I was happy with considering that the cold and wind were FIERCE and that I did a better pace than what I need to do to get my goal time for the 1/2 marathon. My sister did- 29:19; and our friend- 26:46; these girls killed it and I was proud to be on their team!

I am finally gaining confidence in my ability to actually finish this 1/2 marathon. A week ago I had a bit of a "what am I thinking, there is no way I can do this" moment, but it has passed and I am still chugging along. I'm still doing my hot yoga a few times a week and trying to make it to Jiu-Jitsu at least 2 times a week as well, but I think the best change I have made is to forego imbibing (specifically alcohol) until after the big race. I have just about 4 weeks left until race day, and another 53 miles in training. Wish me luck!