Can I really do the 1/2 Marathon?

[surfer_ed]

Thinking about the Disney Half Marathon BUT I am a casual runner (20-25 kms a week) and with the marathon in January, I will need to be ramping up some serious mileage in December....I live in Winnipeg.

Can I be doing the 15+ kms runs in December? It could be in the -30s by then.

 

[I Run Long]

Sure you can! Although I'm not the best one to ask about cold weather running as I'm on the west coast, I would suggest joining a run club for support and guidance. Something like the Running Room (I'm sure they have a store there), they supported me through 5 marathons and several 1/2 marathons. Even if you can't get to their store for their group runs they have online support. I was really scared the first time I went as I felt like you (casual runner) but they were so supportive and I have made some lifelong running partners too. I think you would want to start adding your mileage in Sept to give yourself a chance to adjust and decrease the risk of any injuries. Like I said, check out their Winnipeg store - they'll get you through the cold weather. Good luck and run on!

 

[2gr8DisneyKids]

I was not a runner at all back in August when I signed up for the Princess 1/2 in March. And I ran it!

I have since divorced my tread mill and have not run since the race as it is too cold for me to run outside (I am a fair weather runner) to date here in Montreal.

I did about 80% of my training program (the one from Running Room) on the tm and while the last month of long runs got to be a bit old (went a little insane on the last one that was nearly 3 hours long) (not a fast runner and the program has you run the long runs even slower) but it was dooable.

Also, if you are used to running outside you can still get some in and see about doing your long runs on the tm.

Good luck! And with our weather we would be prepared for their nutty weather in January! LOL!