Great Articles for the Marathon Runner

I ran across a new resource for Marathon and general running advice.  It is the archive of articles at Running network.  Rather than just a compilation of their own articles, they have hand selected articles that appear to be quite strong.  They come from a wide array of sources.

http://www.runningnetwork.com/trainingtips/trainingindex.html

The first article I read was on progression running from Run Washington.

http://www.runwashington.com/features/trainprogression.html

Run long, run hard, get fast.

To iPod or Not to iPod: Should I use an iPod on Long Training Runs?

As I prepare for a number of longer runs, the question of using my iPod while training is on my mind.  I have read a number of articles that talk about the importance of making your long runs as close to the real conditions as possible.  That means:

1)       Running at about the same time of the day as your marathon,

2)       Eating the same food you will on your marathon run, and  

3)       Trying to do everything else the same way.

 

So, some folks point out that you should avoid your iPod on your long runs.  I’m not sure I agree.  I ran 12 miles today and running 90 minutes on your own without people or entertainment is boring.  It’s not that the trees, homes, and other items along the way were of no distraction value, I’m not sure matching this relatively boring environment provides a benefit.  The adrenalin of a race and people simply make a huge difference.  My recommendation:

• If you like using your iPod for long runs, use it.
• If you want to use it in the marathon, it’s a personal choice. 

What do you think?  Post you comment.  BGK

 

 

 

 

The Dallas 1/2 Marathon

Well Sunday was my first ½ marathon. It was “The Half” in Dallas, Texas. It was well run, the weather perfect, and a great crowd. I also ran as a 45-50 year old for the first time. Unfortunately, there’s not a big difference in speed between 40 and 45. I would have been happy with an 8:30, but wanted to get close to my 10K pace of 7:48. I came in at 7:51 (#48 in my age group) and have no complaints. Today I made it back to Bob at Southwest Sports Massage and feel like I am ready to take it to the next level. All this is leading to that first marathon, the White Rock Marathon, in December.