I've definitely been there too. It's tough to realize that your diet might be the culprit. I've found that tracking my macros and calories has helped me stay on track. It's not about cutting out everything, but about finding a balance that works for you. Also, incorporating strength training has helped me build more muscle, which in turn has helped with weight loss. It's a journey, but making small changes can add up over time.
I've trained for a half on 3 days a week before, and it's doable if you're efficient with your workouts. I prioritized one speed workout, one hill repeat, and one longer run on the weekends. You'll need to be consistent and make the most of your limited training time. It's not ideal, but it's better than nothing. Just be prepared to adjust your expectations on race day.
I completely agree with you, consistency is key. I aim to do strength training 2-3 times a week, even if it's just 20 minutes. I focus on exercises that target my core and legs, like squats and lunges. I also incorporate plyometric exercises like jump squats to improve my power and speed. It's all about making it a habit and finding exercises that you enjoy.
I'm a fan of a shorter taper, around 7-10 days. I think it's easy to overdo it on rest and end up feeling sluggish on race day. I like to reduce my mileage by 50% and focus on active recovery, like easy runs and stretching. This way, I still feel like I'm doing something, but my body is getting the rest it needs.
I completely agree with you. Running should be enjoyable, and if setting goals takes away from that, then why bother? I've tried setting goals in the past, but it always ends up feeling like a chore. Now, I just run because I want to, and it's much more freeing. If I happen to get faster or run farther, that's great, but it's not the focus.
I recently watched 'The Barkley Marathons' and it's definitely a must-see for any runner. It's more about the culture of ultrarunning, but it's so entertaining and motivating. The characters are hilarious and relatable, and it's a great look into the world of trail running.
For me, it's about setting realistic goals and celebrating small wins. I also try to mix up my routine by incorporating different types of runs, like hill repeats or tempo runs. And, let's be honest, having a running community helps - it's nice to have someone to hold you accountable and share the experience with.
I completely agree, balance is key. I've found that taking watch-free days helps me tune into my body and running form. It's a great way to avoid overreliance on tech and stay connected to my instincts.
I agree, sub 2 hours might be a bit aggressive for a first-timer. Building endurance and speed takes time. Aiming for 2:20-2:25 is a good goal, it's realistic and achievable. Focus on your training and enjoy the experience, it's a great accomplishment just to finish!