OFFICIAL Jan 2011 Half Marathon, Full Marathon, Dopey or Goofy Challenge Thread

[carissanboys]

Does anyone have a Garmin Forerunner 110? Or any other pacing watches that you would recommend? I currently use my Nike+ with iPod and I like it but I would like a device that I can see while I run and I can't really see my iPod that well. Plus, the tracking gets messed up if I skip a song or if I stop and go to the bathroom -- standing in line last year the Nike+ just stopped tracking my info because I was standing still for too long.

Any feedback would be appreciated!!

Thanks!

I have the Garmin Forerunner 205. I've only used it once, but I love it so far. I've only heard great things about it (and the 305 which has the heart rate monitor).

 

[budpaulsaint]

Another week down, folks. How's the training?

I was only scheduled to do a 10-mile run tomorrow morning but I decided to do a little back-to-back training in preparation for the Goofy, so I did five miles this morning. I won't really know how it goes until tomorrow but the legs felt alright after the ice bath this morning.

I expect to finish the 10 miles in less than 90 minutes so we shall see...

 

[KAA1972]

I have the Garmin Forerunner 205. I've only used it once, but I love it so far. I've only heard great things about it (and the 305 which has the heart rate monitor).[/QUOTE

Does it let you know your current pace? I do a Galloway method walk/run intervals for the race and I just want to make sure I'm keeping up with my pacing for this half.

 

[KAA1972]

Another week down, folks. How's the training?

I was only scheduled to do a 10-mile run tomorrow morning but I decided to do a little back-to-back training in preparation for the Goofy, so I did five miles this morning. I won't really know how it goes until tomorrow but the legs felt alright after the ice bath this morning.

I expect to finish the 10 miles in less than 90 minutes so we shall see...

4 miles for me today. It felt good!! A little sore but nothing an epsom salt bath won't fix.

How did it go for everyone else??

 

[cewait]

I have the Garmin Forerunner 205. I've only used it once, but I love it so far. I've only heard great things about it (and the 305 which has the heart rate monitor).

Does it let you know your current pace? I do a Galloway method walk/run intervals for the race and I just want to make sure I'm keeping up with my pacing for this half.

I know you started asking about the 110. The 110 looks like an attempt to compete with Polar HR monitors but once you look through the manual you see it is a cheaper version of the 405.

I am not sure that the 110 is a good option. (Form my really quick read of the owners manual... It does not offer canfigurable data outputs. You seem to be stuck with Distance Pace and Time. As a Galloway runner you would need to figure out distances for you run intervals. i.e. no training interval timer. I am not sure how big the bezel is but one gripe with the 405 is a small display.

The 205 and 305 would seem to be better options for a first time user and are prcied lower than other versions. The difference between the 305 and 205 is the HR monitor included with the 305. You can program the unit to have three sets of screens with up to 4 data feeds per screen. When set to two or three data feeds on a screen the numbers are huge. The 205/305 seems large (and I guess it is) but you get used to it quickly. You can purchase a velcro strap if you o not like the rubber strap. In addition to the mile based laps, you can set up time based intervals for the Galloway plan.

All current models offer the same GPS receiver technology so start ups are usually quick. Note that the current pace can feel jumpy. There is a buffer in the prgramming section of the unit that will allow a buffer to be set - making the pace more constant. The trade off is that you will need to run by feel in the first 30-45 seconds of starting up a run again.

Hope this helps

 

[Pumbaa80]

Just wanted to say hello and introduce myself. My husband and I will be participating in the Disney Half - very excited! It's our first one! Our DD will be doing the 100M and mickey mile. Sounds adorable!

I'm so happy to see the mix of other newbies along with experienced runners!!

We're currently debating about doing the Wine and Dine - we got our wait list e-mail and have to decide by Tuesday.

In reading the thread, I do have some questions if someone wouldn't mind answering...

- I recently finished the C25K and got up to running 5 miles (slowly) without stopping. I think, though, for the half marathon, that I'd like to do the run/walk method in order to have a better overall time (goal being to get some pictures along the route without being right on the 16min pace). Since 5 miles is my longest, and I'm slow, is the walk/run method generally the better option? Has anyone done it both ways?

When I'm training that way, how do you initially decide how much time you want for the intervals? How do you know when you should change it up? (ex. do I need to do atleast 10 miles doing a 2min/2min before I think about doing a 3min/2min interval).

- I've read where people get pretty packed in. Because of this, is it hard to really do a set run/walk routine?

- Lastly, a shoe question! After completing the C25K, I went to the local running store to get fitted correctly for shoes. With the new shoes, and new inserts, my muscles are getting fatigued much earlier than they were before (I'm also feeling muscles getting worked that I don't think were before). Is this typical with new shoes and inserts? (I'm assuming it's due to the inserts.) I feel like I'm going backwards in my training...

Thanks!! Can't wait to learn more!

 

[Belle1811]

4 miles for me today. It felt good!! A little sore but nothing an epsom salt bath won't fix.

How did it go for everyone else??

Hi everyone,

So I had intended to run both Saturday and today but yesterday I slacked and went out for the day with DH and DD instead (DH and I work shifts so when we get days off together we like to do something as a family - ok excuses over )

Went out today, only did a 3 mile run, the weather (good old British summer ) was awful, really, really windy and raining too so felt like it was two steps forward and ten back Just did a three miler but in a quick time, really went for it and felt shattered at the end but glad that I did it

Proper training starts from tomorrow, is everyone else starting their "serious" training now, I think we all need one of these

 

[Belle1811]

Just wanted to say hello and introduce myself. My husband and I will be participating in the Disney Half - very excited! It's our first one! Our DD will be doing the 100M and mickey mile. Sounds adorable!

My DD is also doing the 100 Dash, isn't it just going to be soooo cute, cameras at the ready hey

 

[cewait]

Just wanted to say hello and introduce myself. My husband and I will be participating in the Disney Half - very excited! It's our first one! Our DD will be doing the 100M and mickey mile. Sounds adorable!

I'm so happy to see the mix of other newbies along with experienced runners!!

We're currently debating about doing the Wine and Dine - we got our wait list e-mail and have to decide by Tuesday.

In reading the thread, I do have some questions if someone wouldn't mind answering...

- I recently finished the C25K and got up to running 5 miles (slowly) without stopping. I think, though, for the half marathon, that I'd like to do the run/walk method in order to have a better overall time (goal being to get some pictures along the route without being right on the 16min pace). Since 5 miles is my longest, and I'm slow, is the walk/run method generally the better option? Has anyone done it both ways?

Run/walking is a perfect way for a first time runner to approach the half or marathon. Actually, if you run/walk and start from the beginning of your run with the walk breaks you may find that you finish the 5 mile run in the same time or even faster. The walk breaks allow the body’s respiratory and circulatory systems to reset for an instant while giving the muscles a slight break. I am not sure what you mean by both ways. If you mean run until you need to start run walking then no do not think that this is a good option. In real simple terms, you brain is looking for ways to make you quit on a long run. You are using its food supply (sugar) and the brain is looking to force your body to pull back. If you run until you need a walk break then try to run/walk there is a high chance that your subsequent run/walking is more walk/running at best. Now if you mean how different does it feel to run a half or full versus a run/walk method then I am here to say that first there is nothing better than making you first walk break the finish line chute of a marathon. I have run and run/walked marathons and halves and honestly prefer the run/walk. I feel as though I need to be better prepared for a fully run race than a run/walked race even though I know factually there is little difference. As a note for my fully run races I train in a run/walk method. It’s only on race day that I seem to make the decision of run vs run/walk. I also encourage my runners to do the same. Again, I would only suggest a fully run endurance event to those who have a few runs under their belts.

When I'm training that way, how do you initially decide how much time you want for the intervals? How do you know when you should change it up? (ex. do I need to do atleast 10 miles doing a 2min/2min before I think about doing a 3min/2min interval).

Let me offer that you really need to be consistent in your interval. I will disagree with Galloway on this … since you are running 5 miles continuously, look to start with your run/walk intervals in the 4:1 or 5:1 range. See how these feel and then adjust accordingly. Most groups I have been associated with will put marathon and half runners in this interval range.

- I've read where people get pretty packed in. Because of this, is it hard to really do a set run/walk routine?

It’s only for the first mile and is created by a bridge with a necked down road width at the mile . Once off the bridge you make a bend onto World Drive and it opens up again. The only other really bad point is around mile 4 and going under the Seven Seas Lagoon. It is not all that hard for a runner to get a rhythm starting in the very back. You will seem like you are wasting a lot of energy to do that by zigging and zagging. It is not too hard to get your routine….. other than hearing hundreds of other timing device alarms go off.

- Lastly, a shoe question! After completing the C25K, I went to the local running store to get fitted correctly for shoes. With the new shoes, and new inserts, my muscles are getting fatigued much earlier than they were before (I'm also feeling muscles getting worked that I don't think were before). Is this typical with new shoes and inserts? (I'm assuming it's due to the inserts.) I feel like I'm going backwards in my training...

Thanks!! Can't wait to learn more!

I am always puzzled by the use of inserts. If they are a prescribed orthotic then I find them very acceptable. If you are Dr Scholl’s gelling then put the original inserts back and see if you need the inserts. With regard to the shoes, did the store look at your old shoes and were they the same design/function (cushioned, stability, etc.)? If you were running in a different functioning shoe you may be adjusting to a different support mechanism. I would go back to the stare and have them look at you and your stride again to see if these are the correct shoes. If they are, you may have been in incorrect shoes before and you are just adjusting to the new support level. I do not find that new shoes really create a newer level of fatigue if they are correct. On occasion, if I change up the brand or the manufacturer comes out with a new and improved design for the shoe I have been in I will feel what you describe. Usually by the 2-5th run I am past that.

Good luck in your training. This is a great first race

 

[carissanboys]

Does it let you know your current pace? I do a Galloway method walk/run intervals for the race and I just want to make sure I'm keeping up with my pacing for this half.

Yes, it does! That's the main reason I got it. I keep mine on the screen that shows my current pace, time, and distance. You can also set alarms to tell you when to walk/run or when you've gone a certain distance. Lots of fun and helpful stuff.

 

[budpaulsaint]

Another week down, folks. How's the training?

I was only scheduled to do a 10-mile run tomorrow morning but I decided to do a little back-to-back training in preparation for the Goofy, so I did five miles this morning. I won't really know how it goes until tomorrow but the legs felt alright after the ice bath this morning.

I expect to finish the 10 miles in less than 90 minutes so we shall see...

Wow, that one hurt. Mentally, I was fine. My cardio was excellent; no huffing and puffing at any point. No cramping either. But damn, my legs were hurting over the last couple of miles! I noticed the pains mostly at the joints - hips, knees. This ice bath has never felt better...
I finished a bit slower than I would have liked - about 94 minutes, but that's nothing to scoff at, I suppose.

Any tips for recovery assistance on sore joints?

 

[cewait]

Wow, that one hurt. Mentally, I was fine. My cardio was excellent; no huffing and puffing at any point. No cramping either. But damn, my legs were hurting over the last couple of miles! I noticed the pains mostly at the joints - hips, knees. This ice bath has never felt better...
I finished a bit slower than I would have liked - about 94 minutes, but that's nothing to scoff at, I suppose.

Any tips for recovery assistance on sore joints?

It may seem counter intuitive but strength work. The more you can push the major muscle but more importantly the minor stabilizer muscle the more supported and cushioned the joints will be. Then of csourse stretching. I am big on squats, lunges, step ups, calf raises and romanian deadlifts. I try to prgress up to dperfoming these and other leg workouts on a Bosu ball (flat side uip). It fires the stabilizers in a major way.

I also would suggest almost equal time on the cycle. Simialr cardio working simialr muscle but no stress on the joints.

Great job on the 10 miler.

 

[KAA1972]

J

- I recently finished the C25K and got up to running 5 miles (slowly) without stopping. I think, though, for the half marathon, that I'd like to do the run/walk method in order to have a better overall time (goal being to get some pictures along the route without being right on the 16min pace). Since 5 miles is my longest, and I'm slow, is the walk/run method generally the better option? Has anyone done it both ways?

!

I ran the princess half this spring using a 1:1 interval. I had no problems with the 1:1 interval. This time, I'm training more for the half and I plan on 5:1 or 6:1 intervals. I'm slow -- about 12 minute mile but I'm aiming for 10-11 minute miles by race day.

Yes, the first mile of the princess was VERY congested. I did a slow jog -- probably equivalent to about 5.0 on a treadmill for the first mile. Then, it opened up and I did my intervals. As my walk interval approached, I just glanced behind me to make sure I wasn't slowing in front of any runners and then just moved over and started walking. It was great! I really like the intervals.

I trained with the Galloway group in 2002 for the NYC Marathon and I did the full marathon on 5:1 intervals. It wasn't bad at all.

Best of luck!!!

 

[KAA1972]

Ok, I'm trying to decide where to stay for Marathon weekend. Here is my dilemma...

We really need two rooms or villa with 2 bathrooms -- which would be BLT or AKV.

Both hubby and I are running half and then hubby is running full the next day. We are taking our nanny and DD 2. We want nanny to have some privacy so I was leaning towards two connecting rooms at a value resort.

We wanted nanny to bring DD to finish but now I'm completely re-thinking that idea. We are on Central time and I think it will be too difficult for nanny -- who hasn't been to WDW to try to figure out parks, marathon stands, finish area, and stroller and baby.

I was originally thinking BLT because it would be easier on monorail but I can't get a 1 or 2 bdrm at BLT--sold out.

We currently have 2 rooms reserved at ASSports which is also very inexpensive. Perhaps, I should just stick with this option and not worry about DD seeing both of us finish the day of the half??? She saw me finish the day or the Princess half and she can see her daddy finish the day of the full.

How easy will it be for me to get out on the course the day of the full marathon to see hubby from All Star Sports? I'm definitely leaving nanny and DD at hotel until close to the finish for the full.

Thanks!

 

[crashbb]

Does anyone know what time the buses start running the Expo? I'd like to be there close to when it opens on Saturday (9am), but I was reading a trip report (from last year) that said the buses didn't start until 11:30am. I'll take a cab if I have to, but it seems weird that the buses start so late.

Thanks.

 

[cewait]

Does anyone know what time the buses start running the Expo? I'd like to be there close to when it opens on Saturday (9am), but I was reading a trip report (from last year) that said the buses didn't start until 11:30am. I'll take a cab if I have to, but it seems weird that the buses start so late.

Thanks.

I honestly have not been to the expo while the half was running. It actually does make some sense that all available bussing would head to the race and not the expo. I would plan on a cab if you want to be there early. Head out around 8:30 to see if any busses are marked expo…make sure to ask the drivers before hopping on and going to Epcot by mistake…

Where are you planning on staying? You may be able to snag WDW bussing from AS that morning in lieu of the marathon bussing. If you are staying on a monorail resort plan on taking the monorail to TTC or Epcot to grab a cab. Or possibly taking the water ferry from Contemporary to Wilderness. The traffic can be really snarled from the monorail resorts until the SD opens the roads.

Ok, I'm trying to decide where to stay for Marathon weekend. Here is my dilemma...

We really need two rooms or villa with 2 bathrooms -- which would be BLT or AKV.

Both hubby and I are running half and then hubby is running full the next day. We are taking our nanny and DD 2. We want nanny to have some privacy so I was leaning towards two connecting rooms at a value resort.

We wanted nanny to bring DD to finish but now I'm completely re-thinking that idea. We are on Central time and I think it will be too difficult for nanny -- who hasn't been to WDW to try to figure out parks, marathon stands, finish area, and stroller and baby.

I was originally thinking BLT because it would be easier on monorail but I can't get a 1 or 2 bdrm at BLT--sold out.

We currently have 2 rooms reserved at ASSports which is also very inexpensive. Perhaps, I should just stick with this option and not worry about DD seeing both of us finish the day of the half??? She saw me finish the day or the Princess half and she can see her daddy finish the day of the full.

How easy will it be for me to get out on the course the day of the full marathon to see hubby from All Star Sports? I'm definitely leaving nanny and DD at hotel until close to the finish for the full.

Thanks!

Relatively simple to get to the course….

Start with the nanny – from ASSp all she needs to do is find the marathon bus starting between 7 & 7:30. The bus will drop her off near the family reunion area. You have two options… Have her meet you at the tent corresponding to your name or have them camp out on the grassy area near where the course comes out of the park.
For you to get out to the race you have a few options. One is to get out on the first marathon bus once they start back up (again 7 ish to 7:30). Once in the Epcot Parking Lot head to the monorail and pick him up at the TTC and then walk to the Poly for a second spot. These are miles 9 and 12.7. From there hop the monorail back to Epcot and take the AS bus back to the resort. A quick .8 mile walk to the McD will get you to mile 19 of the marathon course. Be wary of traffic as it gets snarled… That is a point of ‘must exit’ for vehicles coming from the AK and AKL. Once your DH passes, jog back to ASSp and grab the group – hop a marathon bus and head to the finish area. There are many other options to see the DH but this is what pops up as easy.

 

[crashbb]

I honestly have not been to the expo while the half was running. It actually does make some sense that all available bussing would head to the race and not the expo. I would plan on a cab if you want to be there early. Head out around 8:30 to see if any busses are marked expo…make sure to ask the drivers before hopping on and going to Epcot by mistake…

Sorry, I'm a loser. I am running the half, so I'm going to the Expo on Friday. The expo opens later on the Saturday (I think 10am). I'm staying at the Beach Club.

 

[evhorizon]

Does anyone know what time the buses start running the Expo? I'd like to be there close to when it opens on Saturday (9am), but I was reading a trip report (from last year) that said the buses didn't start until 11:30am. I'll take a cab if I have to, but it seems weird that the buses start so late.

Thanks.

I raced in 2008 and 2009 (but not 2010). In 2009, they started the buses for the expo 30 minutes before it opened and stopped 30 minutes after it closed. I'm running the 1/2M in Jan.

 

[momoflizandains]

Great thread! I am entered in the half and excited to read about everyone's training.

 

[cewait]

Sorry, I'm a loser. I am running the half, so I'm going to the Expo on Friday. The expo opens later on the Saturday (I think 10am). I'm staying at the Beach Club.

OK now I am a little confused.