DopeyBadger
Imagathoner
- Joined
- Oct 15, 2015
Thanks DopeyBadger, that was kind of the way I was leaning too. I'm looking at trying a new plan to see if I can actually get down into the 3:30's finally, just found the FIRST method, any thoughts on it?
The success of the FIRST method is going to be predicated on your commitment to the cross training days. The plan is three days of running at speed, Tempo, and long run pacing. But all of the paces scheduled are aggressive. Therefore the basis of the plan is almost exclusively 100% hard running. The easy counterbalance comes from the cross training days. Those bike, swim or other aerobic activities are to be kept at a very easy effort. If you can't commit to the cross training days, then don't use FIRST. Because the balance of the plan becomes completely thrown off without the easy days. Your performance on race day will be unlikely what you desire.
If you would prefer an exclusively running plan, then I'd suggest looking at Hansons or Daniels. Just be mindful that the plans as written in the books may need adjustments based on one's own current fitness and schedule. The duration of workouts matter more than the mileage. So not everyone should cap a Daniels LR at 16 miles. Some may be 12 miles and others 18 miles. But nearly all will be doing about 2.5 hrs max long runs if following the methods appropriately. So that's all to say the text of the books matter a ton when choosing to do a Hansons or Daniels plan.