The New *Official 2013 Disney Princess Half Marathon Thread*

[Mommy to Two Princes]

I'm so happy to have found this board (thread)! A whole group of people that are as insanely excited about this run as I am! Yes, please!

I look forward to chatting with y'all.

Welcome!

 

[Cripey]

Really?! I'm in Atascocita/Humble area. I'll tell ya, running outside on Monday was beyond BRUTAL. I felt like I was breathing through a pillow. Yesterday we ran on the treadmill at the gym. I couldn't handle the heat again. But today, it's back outside. Wish me luck. Here's hoping I don't pass out and face plant. *lol*

We train on some running paths in my neighborhood. (We = my neighbor and I...she agreed to train and run the race with me, she's crazy!) Hopefully we'll start training some in the future at Hermann and Memorial, for a scenary change.

I was out there Monday too...remember that commercial that was running a while back where these swimmers were at a swim meet and when the gun went off they were actaully trying to backstroke in caramel? That's exactly how I felt monday trying to get 3 miles in...the air was so thick!

I run the pathways in the Woodlands on the weekends and go to the parks after work just because it's close to work...if I drove all the way home first, I'd be more likely to park myself on the couch than to change and go out for a run! There are tons of runners out at both parks! Memorial is pretty chewed up right now because they've cleared out alot of what was killed in last year's drought...it looks really sad! And Hermann just completed a new running trail that provides alot of shade around the golf course, so now there are several options out there...it's my park of choice especially in the summer because of those fountains they have that shoot up from the ground...if I route my run through that area, I can run through the spray to cool off a bit...until we hit another drought and the city cuts off all the fountains to conserve water...that was REALLY disappointing last year! And don't forget the big hill at the Miller Outdoor Theater over at Hermann...the backside of it is very popular for runners who want some incline work.

That's great you have a running buddy to train with...you guys can help keep each other accountable!

 

[mommyof2princesses]

Two Questions:

1) I ran on a treadmill for the first time ever while staying in a hotel this week. Hated it! I felt like I was going to fall off and couldn't get used to adjusting the pace on the touchpad before I sped up or slowed down. I can't imagine running 8-10 miles on one. But the reality of training for a February race while living in Maine is that I will have to do some long runs on a treadmill or risk slipping on ice and snow. Does anyone have tips on training on a treadmill?

2) I'm hoping to merge a Princess Half trip and a mother-daughter trip with my oldest daughter. She will be 13 (a mature, responsible 13 - she's the mother hen of the siblings). Any thoughts on whether she can safely stay alone (and likely asleep) in our hotel room while I run the race? We'll be staying in a DVC resort - hopefully Beach Club.

I ran on a hotel treadmill for the first time a week or so ago. It was horrible. So old and loud! The ones at my gym are nice and they do take a little to get used to. I run a little slower on the treadmill (usually 5.2 mph) whereas outside I am closer to 5.8 mph. Take it slow to start with. My dh had a harder time getting used to it too. I wouldn't worry if you are running slower on it to be safe either. The treadmill is great for hill and interval training, so if you can run outside 1X or 2X a week, use the treadmill on the other days for intervals. (thats what I do in the winter too)

I would have left my 13 year old dd alone too. She was/is very responsible and she loves her sleep. (She is 17 now). She has been to WDW every year since she was 10 and can probably navigate it blindfolded. At 13, she would have been fine in the room, sleeping in, watching tv, taking her LONG teenager shower....

 

[debbieandroo]

Welcome to the new folks we've had post (and lurk!) - registration is so close! I will echo what Cripey said that you DO have time before reg fills up, but the price goes up as it gets closer to race day. I also firmly agree that the non-refundable fee is a HUGE motivator - especially in my frugal household! There was no way I could look my DH in the eye and tell him I was quitting after plunking down over $150 bucks AND spending $100 on new shoes!

The Princess is a blast and totally do-able. You have plenty of time to train and if you train consistently - not religiously, because life happens - you will do it and finish within the time allotted.

Those of you who are getting started outside in this record heat - please don't be discouraged! If you feel you need to start now to be motivated, that's great - I don't want to hold anyone back. But be realistic and know that once fall comes and the heat breaks, you will be AMAZED at how much better you feel and perform.

Am posting a series on the blog for the next few days about different popular training plans. If you are new, or if you just need a change of pace, I hope you will check it out! Today I posted about the Galloway plan:
http://longingforthesea.blogspot.com/2012/06/newbie-chronicles-part-2-gallowalking.html

Amy, I need to write that on a piece of paper to stick on my wall to pull my lazy self outside in this heat. My motivation has gone completely flat in the past couple of weeks especially in the fact that, even when I do walk outside, I go soooo slowly! Thank you for that encouragement!!!! I can't let myself stop now! A silly 100 degrees can't derail this princess, right?

September is only two months away - I can make it!!!

Hello, new Princesses!

Summer, I had no idea you only started running in July 2010 - you have done so much in such a short time! I'm more impressed than ever, especially in your Texas heat.

 

[Cripey]

Summer, I had no idea you only started running in July 2010 - you have done so much in such a short time! I'm more impressed than ever, especially in your Texas heat.

Thanks
Yep, it's only been 2 years since I decided to take the plunge, and I'm hooked on the bling now! Training stinks, but I love race day!

 

[tinkeramy]

Y'all, I'm kind of a mess right now, but I really want to encourage any older princesses (and I am in that category, as much as I hate to admit, 42 is "older" when considering athletics) to get a full physical before or shortly after you get started. One of my oldest friends just had a mild - med. heart attack at age 46. Her prognosis is good, and I don't have all the details, but she is just a tad overweight and she has been playing 2-3 hour tennis matches plus is on an adult swim team that has just wrapped up. I'll have no idea until I visit her tomorrow if she can think of any signs, in hindsight, but I just really want all you princesses - in - training to take good care of yourselves and get yourselves checked out fully - especially DO NOT push yourself in this heat! We need all the princesses we can get!!! Send up prayers / thoughts / vibes for my friend, will ya?

 

[VickiHD]

Y'all, I'm kind of a mess right now, but I really want to encourage any older princesses (and I am in that category, as much as I hate to admit, 42 is "older" when considering athletics) to get a full physical before or shortly after you get started. One of my oldest friends just had a mild - med. heart attack at age 46. Her prognosis is good, and I don't have all the details, but she is just a tad overweight and she has been playing 2-3 hour tennis matches plus is on an adult swim team that has just wrapped up. I'll have no idea until I visit her tomorrow if she can think of any signs, in hindsight, but I just really want all you princesses - in - training to take good care of yourselves and get yourselves checked out fully - especially DO NOT push yourself in this heat! We need all the princesses we can get!!! Send up prayers / thoughts / vibes for my friend, will ya?

I am so sorry to hear about your friend. I will keep you friend in my prayers. Please keep us posted and tell her that some princesses are send her some get well wishes.

 

[WsPrincess]

Welcome to all the new Princesses! I am another one anxiously counting down the days until registration. Once I spend the money it will be REAL (it will be more real once they release the race resorts so I know where I want to stay)!

Today I did something new--I got up before DH went to work and I put in 3.5 miles. Bad thing was I thought I had timed it OK but DS decided to get up early today and had DH up with him which makes me feel bad. DH doesn't mind but I am off for the summer so I am trying to not put too much on DH since this is a super busy time for him. But I LOVED the early morning run. It was so nice and so peaceful. I guess I just have to get up earlier on Friday but I think this might be my new run time.

 

[WsPrincess]

Y'all, I'm kind of a mess right now, but I really want to encourage any older princesses (and I am in that category, as much as I hate to admit, 42 is "older" when considering athletics) to get a full physical before or shortly after you get started. One of my oldest friends just had a mild - med. heart attack at age 46. Her prognosis is good, and I don't have all the details, but she is just a tad overweight and she has been playing 2-3 hour tennis matches plus is on an adult swim team that has just wrapped up. I'll have no idea until I visit her tomorrow if she can think of any signs, in hindsight, but I just really want all you princesses - in - training to take good care of yourselves and get yourselves checked out fully - especially DO NOT push yourself in this heat! We need all the princesses we can get!!! Send up prayers / thoughts / vibes for my friend, will ya?

Oh Amy, I am glad she is OK and that everyone, regardless of age, takes this advice.

 

[freepixie]

Y'all, I'm kind of a mess right now, but I really want to encourage any older princesses (and I am in that category, as much as I hate to admit, 42 is "older" when considering athletics) to get a full physical before or shortly after you get started. One of my oldest friends just had a mild - med. heart attack at age 46. Her prognosis is good, and I don't have all the details, but she is just a tad overweight and she has been playing 2-3 hour tennis matches plus is on an adult swim team that has just wrapped up. I'll have no idea until I visit her tomorrow if she can think of any signs, in hindsight, but I just really want all you princesses - in - training to take good care of yourselves and get yourselves checked out fully - especially DO NOT push yourself in this heat! We need all the princesses we can get!!! Send up prayers / thoughts / vibes for my friend, will ya?

Your friend is definately in my prayers!!

 

[DeerIsleDisney]

Y'all, I'm kind of a mess right now, but I really want to encourage any older princesses (and I am in that category, as much as I hate to admit, 42 is "older" when considering athletics) to get a full physical before or shortly after you get started. One of my oldest friends just had a mild - med. heart attack at age 46. Her prognosis is good, and I don't have all the details, but she is just a tad overweight and she has been playing 2-3 hour tennis matches plus is on an adult swim team that has just wrapped up. I'll have no idea until I visit her tomorrow if she can think of any signs, in hindsight, but I just really want all you princesses - in - training to take good care of yourselves and get yourselves checked out fully - especially DO NOT push yourself in this heat! We need all the princesses we can get!!! Send up prayers / thoughts / vibes for my friend, will ya?

So sorry to hear about your friend. I hope she has a full recovery. Thank you for the reminder to be careful... it is easy to forget.

 

[DeerIsleDisney]

When I started running in March, I completed the whole C25K program outside, but then started running on a TM. The first couple of times it felt horrible, but it does get easier the more you do it. Guess we can't count on another winter like the one we had this year, huh?

As far as your daughter, personally, I think she would be fine alone in the room/resort. Sounds like a great way to spend time with your daughter. Can't wait for a girls trip when my 2 are a bit older.

I ran on a hotel treadmill for the first time a week or so ago. It was horrible. So old and loud! The ones at my gym are nice and they do take a little to get used to. I run a little slower on the treadmill (usually 5.2 mph) whereas outside I am closer to 5.8 mph. Take it slow to start with. My dh had a harder time getting used to it too. I wouldn't worry if you are running slower on it to be safe either. The treadmill is great for hill and interval training, so if you can run outside 1X or 2X a week, use the treadmill on the other days for intervals. (thats what I do in the winter too)

I would have left my 13 year old dd alone too. She was/is very responsible and she loves her sleep. (She is 17 now). She has been to WDW every year since she was 10 and can probably navigate it blindfolded. At 13, she would have been fine in the room, sleeping in, watching tv, taking her LONG teenager shower....

If I had a mature and responsible 13 year old who would sleep in until 8-9, yep, I'd leave her alone. I don't know that there are official rules, but my mommy rule would be that she stay in the room and doesn't leave for anything. Make sure she has something for a light breakfast, drinks, entertainment and a way to call you if some need should arise.

Lock the door and put up the DND sign.

Thanks for all the tips on treadmills and 13 yr olds! This is very helpful.

 

[PrincessV]

Sending many good thoughts, Amy!

 

[mommyof2princesses]

This weekend dh and I signed up for our first half marathon. It is end of October in Danville, VA. So, I start officially training on Sunday. I plan to take the first 2 weeks to ease into it. I am using Train like a Mother as my guide and adding other stuff into it. Hoping to have a good enough time to move me up in the corrals for the princess.

Every stay safe this weekend as it looks like the heat is going to be a beast.

Prayers for your friend Amy. That is scary. I am planning on making an appt for my yearly checkup today and that is a reminder that we should all see our dr. once a year.

 

[tinkeramy]

Thanks, y'all, for all the thoughts and wishes for my friend. She should be moved out of ICU and into a regular room soon, then I can go visit her. She is my oldest and best friend, so this was quite a shock!

Put a review of another training plan up on the blog today - Hal Higdon's plan.

Looking at next week's forecast, I am very grateful for my 7:55 start time for the Peachtree on July 4th! I wanted to break that hour that I have been chasing, but I think that having fun and staying healthy will take precedence. I can always get that hour conquered on a flat route this fall!

 

[MaMa3Princess]

Looking at next week's forecast, I am very grateful for my 7:55 start time for the Peachtree on July 4th! I wanted to break that hour that I have been chasing, but I think that having fun and staying healthy will take precedence. I can always get that hour conquered on a flat route this fall!

I pray for healing for your friend and I too am grateful for an 8:04 start time. It is suppose to be 103 degrees on the 4th!!!

 

[happybaker]

Thanks, y'all, for all the thoughts and wishes for my friend. She should be moved out of ICU and into a regular room soon, then I can go visit her. She is my oldest and best friend, so this was quite a shock!

Put a review of another training plan up on the blog today - Hal Higdon's plan.

Looking at next week's forecast, I am very grateful for my 7:55 start time for the Peachtree on July 4th! I wanted to break that hour that I have been chasing, but I think that having fun and staying healthy will take precedence. I can always get that hour conquered on a flat route this fall!

Amy,

I'm glad to hear your friend will be moved soon. I can't imagine how scary that must have been to hear for you. I will keep you both in my thoughts/prayers.

Good luck on breaking the hour on your 10K! I have my first 10K on Tuesday and I'll be happy to break 80 minutes.

Holly


PS: I've been enjoying your blog

 

[brookiedawn]

I was out there Monday too...remember that commercial that was running a while back where these swimmers were at a swim meet and when the gun went off they were actaully trying to backstroke in caramel? That's exactly how I felt monday trying to get 3 miles in...the air was so thick!

I run the pathways in the Woodlands on the weekends and go to the parks after work just because it's close to work...if I drove all the way home first, I'd be more likely to park myself on the couch than to change and go out for a run! There are tons of runners out at both parks! Memorial is pretty chewed up right now because they've cleared out alot of what was killed in last year's drought...it looks really sad! And Hermann just completed a new running trail that provides alot of shade around the golf course, so now there are several options out there...it's my park of choice especially in the summer because of those fountains they have that shoot up from the ground...if I route my run through that area, I can run through the spray to cool off a bit...until we hit another drought and the city cuts off all the fountains to conserve water...that was REALLY disappointing last year! And don't forget the big hill at the Miller Outdoor Theater over at Hermann...the backside of it is very popular for runners who want some incline work.

That's great you have a running buddy to train with...you guys can help keep each other accountable!

We definitely keep each other accountable. It's difficult for her right now because she's about to get married in PA, so she's flying back and forth trying to get everything ready for the big day in August. And then she'll miss a few weeks for the wedding and honeymoon. I definitely don't expect her to run while she's doing those things. But she'd better be ready to pick it back up when she gets back to Houston, because I'll be running for those two weeks even if she's not.

Thanks for the tip about Miller Outdoor Theater! We'll have to use that as our "hill". I heard there are a few hills at the PHM, onramps and such, and we want to be prepared for those. I'm so looking forward to this race, and I just want to do well.

 

[brookiedawn]

My running partner and I have been brainstorming for WEEKS about how we want to dress for the PHM. But I don't want to be a princess. Do people come dressed as other characters from Disney movies? Or is it mostly princesses and vilians?

Thanks y'all!

 

[Mommy to Two Princes]

My running partner and I have been brainstorming for WEEKS about how we want to dress for the PHM. But I don't want to be a princess. Do people come dressed as other characters from Disney movies? Or is it mostly princesses and vilians?

Thanks y'all!

I'm not going as any particular princess. I'll be wearing a purple tutu and crown.