Half Marathon before Full

[TnTsParty]

I am trying to figure out my running schedule for the year since I am signed up for the 2009 full. I would like to run a half marathon before I do the full in January but the only ones that are close by and within my date ranges are Nov 30, Dec 7 or possibly Nov 2 or 9th (the date isn't set yet I guess) I know it can be done back to back especially since all those who just finished the Goofy made it. But I don't feel like doing that much in that short of time period.

I am wondering if Dec 7 is too late to do a half marathon prior to the 2009 full. I know in all reality the Nov 2 or 9th date would be better (and closer to home - LOL)

 

[solotraveler]

My opinion... go for the November 2nd or 9th date.

Thinking back to most of the full training programs I've seen (thinking MfM and Higdon specifically), most will run a 12 to 14 mile long run those dates anyhow, so that date will fit very very nicely.

Kevin

 

[angietuck2]

I second Kevin's post. As a matter of fact I'm hoping to do full next year (if my back cooperates ) and I told DH I would like to do a 1/2 in November.

That's just my opinion

angie

 

[hoosmi]

You can fit a half into your schedule either month. I did December because it was the easiest race for me to run, but I would have liked November better. I was more panicked by the time December came around, and life is just more hectic with the holidays. Still, it can be done.

Pay close attention to race reports on your options. I went back and read about the course I ran- everyone said it was a well organized, no frills race. That's about right. I was bored for MILES. I've learned something about myself- I want frills not just endless asphalt! I actually came away from my "give me confidence for Goofy" race feeling worse than before I started. I ran the half at Disney at an easy pace, stopping for tons of pictures, and was only 3 minutes slower than my Jacksonville half- shows what frills can do for your spirits!

Jen in GA

 

[MarkMichaels]

I've been kinda lurking here for 2 years trying to get up the courage and cash to sign up for the full. In that time, I have done a couple of half's though and I would suggest trying the earlier November dates if possible. Running a true half marathon is different than a 13 mile long run, both of my half's were faster than I normally run, and it took me a few days to recover.

If you have to run in December, force yourself to start slow, stay at least 30 seconds behind your target pace. Its hard to do, but your better off finishing healthy, especially if you are signed up for Disney a month later.

Mark