Spring is a great time to start training for a race. Whether you have never run a race or have run hundreds, here a few things to help you get the most out of your spring training:
- Have a goal. A goal for your race can help you train on the days when you would rather stay home curled up on the couch. Here are some example goals to help you get started-
- I run a 2:29 or faster half marathon.
- I have fun for the entire race from the starting line to the finish line.
- I meet one new person for each mile of the marathon.
- My last mile is my fastest mile of the race.
- I enjoy my time running with my friends.
- Have a plan. There are many books, programs, and online training plans. The key is to do your research, choose a plan, and then follow and trust the plan. If you second guess or take other’s input (every runner has his/her own philosophy and opinion!), you will second guess the process and take your eye off of the goal.
- Listen to your body. Do you have a little ache that you are not sure about? If so, how about you skip one or two days of training and stretch and roll a little more on those days? Sometimes it just takes a day of rest to take away the ache. Sometimes it just takes one extra workout to take our body over the edge to injury. Learn to pay attention.
- Enjoy. “If it ain’t fun don’t do it.” – Jack Canfield
Be sure to remember the fun: the fun of reaching a goal; the fun of training with friends; the fun of crossing the finish line and reaching your goal time; the fun of time outside in nature; the fun of making your body work hard… Sometimes the weather and the circumstances suck, but your attitude and focus can remind you of why you are here.
Let’s do this!
Coach Carol Frazey
Fit School, Inc.
Carol is a lifelong runner with a mission to educate and motivate individuals to make small changes each day to live healthier lives and to have fun while doing it. She is the coach and owner of The Fit School and leads the Fit School Running Clinics.
