SOSH Running Dogs

Traut

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Stay tuned for Monday, we'll have something awesome to announce that's sure to be a hit with this group.
 

Frisbetarian

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Smas, the shin splint exercises I like to recommend, and that have been pretty successful for most folks who have tried them, are simply to lie on your back and flex and point your toes, first straight, then in, then out,10 times each, until your shins are screaming and you can hardly move/lose range of motion. After a few days of this, your shins will be strong and your shin splints will be gone. You may want to do it once a week after your shin splints are "cured" as maintenance. Alternatively, you can stand against a wall and tap your toes, again front, in, and out, and again until failure, and this will have the same results (although I prefer the lie on your back method because of the greater range of motion).

A few other thoughts for beginning runners. It is so important to take things easy starting out. Most people quit their exercise routines because they get sore, or hurt, and either don't want to or cannot continue. Thus, Fris' 3 rules for exercise:

#1. Be safe. Don't overdo the workout or take any unnecessary chances. If you're hurt you can't workout.

#2. Have fun. You won't make exercise a part of your life unless you enjoy yourself. Find friends (preferably attractive ones of the opposite sex) to run with. Run interesting/beautiful routes, maybe in the woods or along the ocean or a pond; don't be afraid to travel to run.

#3. Do your best. It sounds hokey, but screw everyone else and run for yourself. Worry about your pace and your stride, and forget what others around you are doing. Be proud of your workouts.

One last thought that came up when I talked to smas over IM; it is important to have balance in opposing muscle groups. What I mean here is that any exercise requires primary and assistor muscles to complete. Do a bicep curp with your sleeve rolled up and you'll see what I mean; when you lift the weight, the bicep is engaged and "pumped," but when you lower it, the tricep takes the brunt of the weight and it is the flexed muscle. People who only work their bicep will create an unbalance and be at serious risk for injury because the tricep cannot handle the same level of resistance. How does this relate to runners? Well, runners' quadriceps get worked much more than their hamstrings - quads are worked a lot anyway - and for many those opposing muscles are unbalanced. This is especially true if you also bike. It is, imo, imperative that runners work their hamstrings, and leg curls, which are shown here, are the best exercise for hamstring work. I think that many knee problems that runners endure are a result of an imbalance in the quads and the hammies. A quick aside for bong and any other skiers here. Alpine skiing is almost entirely a quadricep workout and the hamstring gets virtually nada. The high incidence of ACL tears in skiers is at least partially caused by the huge strength difference between these opposing muscles in skiers. When I worked with the PSIA guys running their training sessions, I always focused first on getting the instructors hamstrings in shape for the upcoming season, and strongly suggest any skiers here do the same.

Oh yeah, I'd like to thank Ryan (Traut) for taking the lead with the SoSH Team Running Dogs, and hope you will all join him.
 

sass a thon

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Well. As I sit here on the eve of my first full marathon, that video made me cry like a baby and totally put my mind at ease. So thanks, Traut, for posting.

I'll be training in October and unable to do a half, but I'd be happy to help coach a newer runner. I'd love to, actually.
 

TallerThanPedroia

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I think that many knee problems that runners endure are a result of an imbalance in the quads and the hammies.
It certainly was the source of my knee problem (patella tendinitis). It wasn't until my physical therapist noticed how weak my hamstrings were that we solved it. It didn't even take that much strengthening once we did.
 

( . ) ( . ) and (_!_)

T&A
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Feb 9, 2010
5,302
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I ran my first 5K in October and finished in 29:11. In the mean time I kept running and signed up for a 5K training class at my gym. We did speed and intervale training and some side runs a few times a week. I ran in my second 5K today and finished in 26:58. I shaved 2 and a quarter minutes off my time. I'm really pleased with myself. Sorry, If I don't have anything to add to this discussion except for personal gloating, but I am in the midst of trying to lose some weight (i'm still tipping the scales at 240ish) and I am just super happy with that time!

(and at the moment the Gonzalez trade is on. Come on Pats tomorrow night! Give me the trifecta!)
 

Traut

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I just posted this on the main board but it's probably most exciting to the regular posters in this forum. Fris is coming out of race retirement this fall.
 

TallerThanPedroia

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This is like getting Adrian Gonzalez twice!

I'm already planning* to run both the Run to Remember half in May and the BAA half in October, so let me know what else I can do, Traut.




* emphasis on planning, given that it's been two years since my legs have been healthy and whole enough to run a half.
 

24JoshuaPoint

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I'd be into running the BAA again as well as campaign for the Jimmy Fund. Seems like a good date and a good place for training and convenience purposes.
 

Traut

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Cross posted from the main board:

This brings us to this thread. I want you.

I want you to commit to doing something you never thought possible in 2011. And if you thought it possible - I want you too.

The idea for this portion of the fundraiser is to get moving. If you're willing to commit to a race and a cause in 2011 the SoSH Running Dogs will get you from the couch to the finish line. Our community of runners will help you pick a training program, encourage you through the ups and downs of training, and point you in the right direction when it comes to running gear. Whatever your problem, we'll help you - runner to runner. You should check with a doctor prior to starting any exercise program.

The beautiful thing about what we're doing is that you can run any race, anywhere, at anytime for the cause. I've given a lot of thought targeting a race where a group of us could run it together. It's logistically difficult if not impossible. Rather, we've opted to let groups of SoSHers develop organically.

The idea is to run a half or a full marathon in the fall. If you aren't running right now, a fall marathon is an unsafe goal. A half marathon is more realistic. Fall races give us plenty of time to train and raise money.

Your resolution, if you choose to accept it is to:

1. Finish a fall half or full marathon;
2. Raise $500.00 for the Jimmy Fund in the process; and
3. Pay your own race entry fee and expenses.

In exchange for accepting this resolution, you'll get:
1. The advice, training and individualized support of the SoSH Running Dogs;
2. A Dana Farber singlet with SoSH Running Dogs lettering; and
3. A sense of pride that you won't be able to put into words.

Here are some suggested "see not official" 2011 Full and Half Marathons. These races do not have entry lotterys, however, register early because they may sell out.

1. The Hartford Full and Half Marathons on October 15, 2011. These races are fantastic. I've done the half and it runs through beautiful West Hartford through Elizabeth Park. The full marathon is very flat and runs through beautiful Main Street in South Windsor. These races are well organized and first rate events. I'm probably running this next fall. Even if I don't, we'll have beers.

2. The Amica Newport Full and Half Marathons. Run by the mansions and enjoy Newport. October 16, 2011.

3. Baystate Half and Full Marathons. End up in front of the Spinners Dugout. This course is flat and fast and you get to end your race at LeLacheur Park.

There are no shortage of races in the fall. We'll even help find one for you. Wherever you live or want to travel to.

Oh and the guy who sent me the shirt, Fris. He's coming out of retirement and running a race next fall. Why not run with him?

Make your resolution here. You commit. We'll get you there.

When you've done that, set up an account on the Daily Mile and report into the SoSH Running Dogs thread. We'll start working with you immediately.

There's no fundraising minimum. So if you sign up your card won't get whacked. $500 is a goal and one that I think you can reach in the next 10 months. If you don't raise $500 you won't get a singlet and cancer won't be beat.
 

Frisbetarian

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What race is he going to do? I want to run with Fris!
I love you. Sniff.

Around Cape Ann 25K next Labor Day.

If the weather is good, we'll head to the beach after the race, and I'll teach anyone who shows up to surf (after 5) if they have the legs and haven't imbibed too much. If the weather is not beachy, we'll head to a local bar and talk about the chances of the new Mexican guy winning an MVP.
 

HomeBrew1901

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I'd love to run a half marathon, especially for something like this, but I'm afraid to.

I commit to exercise like my parents have committed to quitting smoking, meaning as soon as it gets hard I quit even though I know it is good for me.

Traut, BSJ and Fris tried to help me last summer when I started the Couch to 5K program. First day out I somehow busted up my foot and tore a few ligaments in my toes, I fought through that pain but then came the shin splints and arches and the knee pain and it got to a point where I couldn't finish a basic 1 mile run.

Eventually I resigned myself to the fact that I wasn't a runner and I was on the wrong side of 35 to start, plus it was easier and more fun to eat and drink what I want.

Now that it is freezing out that only gives me more excuses (plus a slightly torn quad that is almost healed). The one thing that this would do for me is that I would be running for a cause bigger than myself and I would be afraid of letting down those who donated and the community.

Let me give it some thought, but what kind of advice would you give to someone like me. I do have a treadmill in my basement so that could help both my knees, shins and the cold weather to start the program.
 

bosoxgrl

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I love you. Sniff.

Around Cape Ann 25K next Labor Day.

If the weather is good, we'll head to the beach after the race, and I'll teach anyone who shows up to surf (after 5) if they have the legs and haven't imbibed too much. If the weather is not beachy, we'll head to a local bar and talk about the chances of the new Mexican guy winning an MVP.
Boo. My niece is getting married in Illinois Labor Day. But we should set up a run Bash weekend (or try to again).
 

Fo' Rheal

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Jul 14, 2005
102
IN! Not much of a runner, but have been wanting to start. This is what I need. Podiatrist appt tomorrow at 2 for heel/arch pain. If that goes well, I'm giving this a go. Right now, I can probably do 1 mile and an 11 minute pace. Plenty of room for improvement!

So, Running Dogs, please help this rookie!
 

Infield Infidel

teaching korea american
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Jul 15, 2005
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Yeah, so I'm in. I'd like to get up to 10k by March, then a half by next fall.

My biggest problem is pacing. I don't know how to not run fast, and my breathing isn't regular. I have no idea what I'm doing on those fronts. I just go out and start running and then I get tired after 2 miles, and stop around 3 miles. I usually have the cardio to keep going, but my legs get pretty sore. I do stretch hammies, shins, quads, Achilles.

Also, some cold weather running advice would be helpful.
 

Marceline

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Yeah, so I'm in. I'd like to get up to 10k by March, then a half by next fall.

My biggest problem is pacing. I don't know how to not run fast, and my breathing isn't regular. I have no idea what I'm doing on those fronts. I just go out and start running and then I get tired after 2 miles, and stop around 3 miles. I usually have the cardio to keep going, but my legs get pretty sore. I do stretch hammies, shins, quads, Achilles.
Part of it is you haven't yet built up a base of running mileage. It's going to hurt. You will get sore. If you're having trouble getting past 2 or 3 miles, try taking walk breaks at regular intervals throughout the run. For example, you could try to do 4 miles next time, but with intervals of 8 minutes running/2 minutes walking.

After a couple of weeks of allowing your body to get used to this, you can then reduce the length of the walking intervals.

Also, some cold weather running advice would be helpful.
If you're running in the dark make sure to wear stuff that's reflective. I got one of these vests on ebay for $6. It's a similar type to what police/contstruction workers/etc use and works much better than the more expensive ones that you might find at a sporting goods store.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rt=nc&nma=true&item=120633638060&si=RXsabptgC%252F%252BEgW6ib0qN7srudGw%253D&viewitem=

Running in the cold is not that bad because the running keeps your body warm, so you don't need to dress as heavily as you would normally. The rule of thumb is to dress as if it's 20 degrees warmer than it actually is.

You should feel uncomfortably cold when you first get outside because you'll warm up after about 10 minutes of running. I'll sometimes start out wearing a hat and gloves and then just stuff them in my jacket pockets when I warm up.

Running in the cold is a lot easier to me than running in the heat. You can add layers to keep warm in the cold, but there's nothing you can do if it's too hot besides sweat profusely and feel miserable.
 

underhandtofirst

stud who hits bombs
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Jul 25, 2005
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The race around Cape Ann is a great race if you have a marathon planned in mid to late October. I did the 25k (15.56miles) 6 weeks before my marathon and it was a good hard run before my actual race. In fact the pace I ran in the 25k ended up being the same avg pace I ran in my marathon. I still have the bumper sticker "15.56" at my desk here at work. Oh and those hills!
 

( . ) ( . ) and (_!_)

T&A
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Feb 9, 2010
5,302
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I've got a question. I am tempted to try a half marathon. I think I am ready for it. I have been running all summer, I run about 12-15 miles a week now. I have finished runs as far as 6 miles. I think I am ready for this.

But I am getting married next fall, so its a bad time for me to have to be concentrating on training and putting the time in. So I have been eyeing the Boston Run to Remember half at the end of May 2011. I know the challenge Traut mentioned a run in the fall, but is the end of May too aggressive? Can you get yourself ready for a half marathon in 12-15 weeks? If this seems reasonable then I want to commit.
 

TallerThanPedroia

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I've got a question. I am tempted to try a half marathon. I think I am ready for it. I have been running all summer, I run about 12-15 miles a week now. I have finished runs as far as 6 miles. I think I am ready for this.

But I am getting married next fall, so its a bad time for me to have to be concentrating on training and putting the time in. So I have been eyeing the Boston Run to Remember half at the end of May 2011. I know the challenge Traut mentioned a run in the fall, but is the end of May too aggressive? Can you get yourself ready for a half marathon in 12-15 weeks? If this seems reasonable then I want to commit.
You absolutely can, especially with the base you're working with. I used Hal Higdon's novice plan for my first half (though he's since modified it), and that's 12 weeks. You sound like you could jump in around Week 5 if you had to.

edit: After a two-month layoff, I started training for the May 27, 2007 Run to Remember on March 3rd.
 

Ryo Sen

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Okay, you guys, I started running the last few weeks for a 5K in March (my first race -- I've never been a runner). I'm doing couch-to-5K on a treadmill at the gym, 3-4 times per week. I have NO IDEA whether less than a year is a reasonable amount of time to train up from nothing to a half-marathon outside.

I'd *love* to join the fundraising effort, but am skeptical that I'll be ready to run 13 miles in October when I can't credibly run a MILE yet. Thoughts?
 

Traut

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My couch to 13.1 took 5 months. My couch was very stuck to my ass at that time. I never thought I could run 13.1 miles, either.
 

Traut

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When I get a minute, I'm going to start a new thread for this cause. My post will contain lots of useful information and links for those starting out. I hope to have this done tonight.
 

Ryo Sen

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almost boston
Thanks, guys. I joined the dailymile group, and will sign up for the Jimmy Fund group today or tomorrow. I'm nervous, but definitely leaning towards making an October half my goal for 2011.
 

24JoshuaPoint

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Anyone have any suggestions for a cross training type sneaker i can wear to run in the snow and/or trails? Last winter i trained in sneakers and i'm surprised i didn't take a fall or roll an ankle. I'm thinking something light, waterproof, with a decent tread yet will be ok on the road as well at times.

I started looking around at EMS and got to checking out the Salomons i.e. the XA Pro 3D Ultra GTX and similar wing version.

I have been wearing a pair of Northface Hedgehogs with the boa system which worked out well but they are so shot now i can't really get a feel for them in the snow.
 

Terras

Says he wants a Revolution
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Jun 25, 2007
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I'd *love* to join the fundraising effort, but am skeptical that I'll be ready to run 13 miles in October when I can't credibly run a MILE yet. Thoughts?
This is pretty much my situation. I'm relatively active, but the one thing I've never been able to do is run, so I'm extremely afraid that I'm going to try running and absolutely flame out.
 

JGray38

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Don't let the distance intimidate you. First of all, you've got 10 months to prepare. That's plenty of time. Second, once you reach a certain point in your training, trading a little bit of speed for a lot of distance is not that hard. You'll find your pace, and feel as if you could run forever.

I started last year at around this time after 15 years away from running. I'd ballooned since then (who hasn't?), and I spent most of 2009 completely unable to move after two hernia surgeries, one of them badly botched. I could barely get through 2 miles on the treadmill at a slow pace last November. By September I was knocking out 30 mile weeks on hilly terrain. You can do this. If you're active to start, it'll be that much easier.
 

Traut

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This is pretty much my situation. I'm relatively active, but the one thing I've never been able to do is run, so I'm extremely afraid that I'm going to try running and absolutely flame out.
The keys are 1. Having a big goal 2. Getting a training program 3. Executing the training program. I went from inactive to 26.2 in a year. The key is builing slowly and properly. Join us. You won't regret it.
 

sass a thon

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And hey, on the bright side, it's not like we'll put you in front of a firing squad if an injury or unforeseen obstacle keeps you from finishing. Things happen - everyone has learned that at some point. But you quite honestly have nothing to lose and so many things to gain.

Traut, post that video again.
 

Traut

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The voice in your head, that says "you can't do it" will be crushed when you do it.

 

WinRemmerswaal

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Traut, this is a wonderful project. Three notes from me:

1) The quick running background: I have run on and off for years, did some 5/10K races here and there, dropped into the discussion in this thread occasionally, but never kept it up for a prolonged time, would always stop for a few months if things got busy with work/kids/etc and then be back to square one. Starting this March, partly inspired by some of the folks in this thread who have the discipline to get up early and train, I rebooted my sleep cycle, began running early in the morning, with a half-marathon as the goal, aiming for 8 minute miles if I could. Training went great and I ran my half on 11/14 in 1:34:04 and felt strong throughout. Since then I have been sticking to my pre-half mileage, but thinking a lot about whether I could pull off a BQ (I am 40), which I never would have thought a year or two ago.

2) Training and Daily Mile: I would definitely welcome insight and guidance on developing a training program to make this leap. I was really impressed by the insight and knowledge of the people posting in this thread and would love to pick your collective brains, though it seems like everyone has moved to Daily Mile now. I am a total ignoramus about social media but would hope that I can figure it out based on some of what Traut posted. I have used mapmyrun to keep track of my routes and mileage, does anyone know if I can import that to Daily Mile?

3) Traut's challenge: The goal of a race early next fall could work for trying to do a qualifying time, assume some of the ones Traut mentioned would fit well. My one (hopefully not too) douche-y caveat: my wife had asked me about doing a fundraiser when I decided to do the half-marathon and I told her what I still feel - running is the one thing I do that is just for me. Not complaining, I have a great if stressful job and a busy family and do volunteering and donating in other places, but running is my "other thing" and I would like to continue to enjoy doing it without feeling guilty that I am not out asking people for money. I do think the camaraderie of the group would help me train and I would commit to write a check for $500 to the Jimmy Fund at the appropriate time, but if others think that is counter to the spirit of this effort, then I will bow out.

Good luck to all the runners
 

Terras

Says he wants a Revolution
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Jun 25, 2007
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Despite the protagonist openly supporting the Razorbacks, that video pushed me over the top. I'm not quite sure how I'm going to work it in with training for a century ride and martial arts and other things and I have no idea where to start, but I'm in this to win it, so to speak.
 

TallerThanPedroia

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Training went great and I ran my half on 11/14 in 1:34:04 and felt strong throughout. Since then I have been sticking to my pre-half mileage, but thinking a lot about whether I could pull off a BQ (I am 40), which I never would have thought a year or two ago.
For what it's worth, I got as far as your time and my eyes bugged out and I thought, this guy should go for a BQ. And then I read that you're 40 and only need a 3:20 (I need 3:10), so I'd say that it's far more likely that you could BQ next year than I could. My half PR is 1:45.
 

Traut

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Traut's challenge: The goal of a race early next fall could work for trying to do a qualifying time, assume some of the ones Traut mentioned would fit well. My one (hopefully not too) douche-y caveat: my wife had asked me about doing a fundraiser when I decided to do the half-marathon and I told her what I still feel - running is the one thing I do that is just for me. Not complaining, I have a great if stressful job and a busy family and do volunteering and donating in other places, but running is my "other thing" and I would like to continue to enjoy doing it without feeling guilty that I am not out asking people for money. I do think the camaraderie of the group would help me train and I would commit to write a check for $500 to the Jimmy Fund at the appropriate time, but if others think that is counter to the spirit of this effort, then I will bow out.

Good luck to all the runners
1. You can run a BQ;
2. Do so in a Dana Farber - Running Dogs Singlet;
3. That's cool if that's what you want to do. All I ask is that you consider creating a page and joining our team by clicking on the Jimmy Fund link and making the donation yourself through that page at a time you see fit.
 

24JoshuaPoint

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The voice in your head, that says "you can't do it" will be crushed when you do it.
"The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person doing."

I don't think I had run more than 5 miles since High School and 15 years later after constant abuse to my body I wanted to try to turn myself around. I had to start slow as i had torn a meniscus the summer before as well as a hamstring pull as well as a case of plantier fascititis (sp). Basically i felt like my body was breaking down. I had only been a sprinter so running long distance seemed like a crazy idea at first let alone the fact I hadn't run since the early nineties. But man once you start hitting goals the next step seems so achievable when only months before it looked insurmountable. For me my first ten mile run was huge. 13 was easy after that. My first 20'er i crossed three towns in my route. It's a feeling of liberation when you realize "screw the car,i can just run there". All you need is a pair of legs and desire.
 

underhandtofirst

stud who hits bombs
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Jul 25, 2005
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[quote name='Trautwein's Degree' timestamp='1291816833' post='3284751']
Underhandtofirst just ran a BQ at Baystate.
[/quote]

Assuming the BAA doesnt change the standards :)

Some more info about getting a BQ. Usually the qualifying window starts 18 months before Boston and your time counts for your age on the day of the race. Also, they give you an extra 59 seconds so a time of 3:20:59 qualifies you for men aged 40-45.

I ran Baystate at age 39 on 10/17/10 and finished in 3:20:24. If their standards stay the same I will qualify for Boston 2012 because I will have turned 40 by race day in 2012 and ran a qualifying time within 18 months of the race.

For those starting from nothing I'd recommend finding a plan that fits your goals. I used Hal Higdon (www.halhigdon.com) to train for my first Half Marathon in Feb 2006. I used his plan to run my first marathon in Oct 2006. He has plans for all sorts of distances. Think about how many days you want to run based on your life. Personally, I feel my max is 5 days. This allows me to miss a day or juggle workouts depending on weather, family, work, etc. Some may only want to commit to 3 days at first. Find a plan that fits your goals. I have a couple books by Pete Pftizinger that create plans for anything from 5k up to marathon. You can do a 5k on less than 20 miles per week, a half marathon on less than 30 and a marathon on about 40. My first HM I did with a max of 23 miles per week. I ran 3-4 days per week with a long run on Sunday. My longest run before the HM was only 11 miles.

Obviously if you want to run to your full potential more miles are necessary. If you just want to reach that goal of completing a 5k or 10k or half marathon you don't need to be grinding out 70 mile weeks. You may also be surprised that most (if not all) of your miles can be done at an easy pace where you can carry on a conversation. You don't need run yourself into the ground to prepare for these distances.
 

underhandtofirst

stud who hits bombs
SoSH Member
Jul 25, 2005
1,575
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Traut, this is a wonderful project. Three notes from me:

1) The quick running background: I have run on and off for years, did some 5/10K races here and there, dropped into the discussion in this thread occasionally, but never kept it up for a prolonged time, would always stop for a few months if things got busy with work/kids/etc and then be back to square one. Starting this March, partly inspired by some of the folks in this thread who have the discipline to get up early and train, I rebooted my sleep cycle, began running early in the morning, with a half-marathon as the goal, aiming for 8 minute miles if I could. Training went great and I ran my half on 11/14 in 1:34:04 and felt strong throughout. Since then I have been sticking to my pre-half mileage, but thinking a lot about whether I could pull off a BQ (I am 40), which I never would have thought a year or two ago.
Win my HM PR is 1:35 from Feb 08 and I ran my marathon PR of 3:19 in Oct '08. I used the Pete Pftizinger 55 mile/24 week plan over the summer of '08 to run that PR. This summer I used Jack Daniels' plan to run 3:20 get my BQ. This was after taking all winter off because of a stress fracture in my hip. You've got a great base already so at 40 you are in a great position to get a BQ.
 

bosoxgrl

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The deep end of the ocean
For me my first ten mile run was huge. 13 was easy after that.
This is so true. A year ago, I was preparing for my first distance race. It was a 10 miler and I thought a huge undertaking. Two half-marathons later, I ran a 10 mile race last weekend. One of my guys at work asked me how long my race was. I said "Oh, only 10 miles." I laughed after that.
 

underhandtofirst

stud who hits bombs
SoSH Member
Jul 25, 2005
1,575
Chelmsford, MA
For me my first ten mile run was huge. 13 was easy after that. My first 20'er i crossed three towns in my route. It's a feeling of liberation when you realize "screw the car,i can just run there". All you need is a pair of legs and desire.
This is right on the money. Leading up to my first HM I'd set a new distance record almost every Sunday. It was fun going 6....7.....8....9...etc. I'd look forward to each run. Same thing with my first marathon adding a mile to my long run.

Goals as to places to run to are great. I have one 16 miler I do each year that takes me to a different state (MA to NH). One of my late marathon training 20 mile runs takes me past my parents home. It is a nice boost 10 miles in running through the area I grew up. Little goals like that help you achieve your bigger goals.

Others may have time goals, first 30 min run, then 60 then 90, etc.
 

rice not rose

eric van is my love doctor
SoSH Member
Dec 19, 2003
565
wayne, nj
Okay. I have "resolved to do something great" in 2011. I followed Traut's link, signed up at the SOSH sponsorship page on the Jimmy V Website, and made an initial $50 contribution.

For those of you who don't know me (most of you), I participate on the Fat-Ass thread. I joined Weight Watchers almost a year ago - next Saturday the 18th will be my one-year anniversary. I've lost 132 pounds, checking in today at a svelte 332.4 lbs. My goal is to lose another 118 lbs, which will put me at 214. I don't have a "I'll reach that weight by" date. Instead, I have a daily commitment to my WW points plan. I'm all in on that.

I'm doing this because of "8". Before I started Weight Watchers, I carried 50+ more pounds than him despite being 7 inches shorter (in HEIGHT - that needs to be said). Something clicked in me a year ago, and this is my way to express my gratitude to God for that having happened.

My doctor says he would prefer that I not start running until I hit 300 lbs. I've set that as my goal for my birthday, April 16th ... at which point I will begin the C25K program. That will then give me another 4 months to prep for the Hartford half-marathon. I will sign up for that event.

In the interim, I will continue my walking program. I'm doing at least 6 miles a week right now (2+ miles, 3 days a week). Any suggestions that you all want to throw my way will be greatly appreciated.

I know NOTHING about running. That's never been a part of me. I am a former linebacker who hated laps because they were punishment.

Anyhow, that's that. I'd really appreciate your help.
 

Kremlin Watcher

Member
SoSH Member
Sep 20, 2005
5,248
Orleans, MA
In my experience the single most important element of a fitness program of any type is to have a goal. It can really be anything: run a 5k in a certain time on a certain date, bench press x pounds by a certain date, whatever. And the more specific, the better. Committing to a specific goal, I mean really committing to it, helps all of the other elements of a fitness plan fall into place. The training plan, the equipment, the scheduling, things like nutrition, recovery, customizing a training plan to fit your body, your schedule, and your goals - all of this starts to come into sharper and sharper focus once you have a goal. Before I had really specific goals, I knew next to nothing about fitness and training; I would just run hard every day with very little noticeable improvement over time, and get injured. Now that I know exactly what I want to achieve, I have become very knowledgeable on the subject and through that knowledge have been able to make enormous strides in my fitness. So if you are thinking of committing to this most worthy cause (all credit to Traut), start with a goal. Make it slightly more difficult than you think you can do. You'll probably surprise yourself.

And Traut, I am happy to help out here and to participate in a race next October. I haven't decided which one yet, but I'll figure it out and sign up.

I am happy to give what advice I can. I am an advocate of minimalist/barefoot running and my training regime is pretty unconventional, so my views may differ from others', but might be an interesting alternative for some people.
 

Traut

lost his degree
Lifetime Member
SoSH Member
Jul 20, 2005
12,780
My Desk
Okay. I have "resolved to do something great" in 2011. I followed Traut's link, signed up at the SOSH sponsorship page on the Jimmy V Website, and made an initial $50 contribution.

For those of you who don't know me (most of you), I participate on the Fat-Ass thread. I joined Weight Watchers almost a year ago - next Saturday the 18th will be my one-year anniversary. I've lost 132 pounds, checking in today at a svelte 332.4 lbs. My goal is to lose another 118 lbs, which will put me at 214. I don't have a "I'll reach that weight by" date. Instead, I have a daily commitment to my WW points plan. I'm all in on that.

I'm doing this because of "8". Before I started Weight Watchers, I carried 50+ more pounds than him despite being 7 inches shorter (in HEIGHT - that needs to be said). Something clicked in me a year ago, and this is my way to express my gratitude to God for that having happened.

My doctor says he would prefer that I not start running until I hit 300 lbs. I've set that as my goal for my birthday, April 16th ... at which point I will begin the C25K program. That will then give me another 4 months to prep for the Hartford half-marathon. I will sign up for that event.

In the interim, I will continue my walking program. I'm doing at least 6 miles a week right now (2+ miles, 3 days a week). Any suggestions that you all want to throw my way will be greatly appreciated.
1. This is Awesome.
2. This is Awesome.
3. Keep walking.
4. Are you in CT? Let me know, and I'll run your 5k with you every step of the way if you want at your pace.
5. The Hartford Half marathon is spectacular. Great choice.
6. I'll see you in the finish line, under the arch, at Bushnell Park next October. Awesome.