Questions about the half marathon

In a moment of insanity, I signed up for the LI half marathon in May. The longest race I've run is 5 miles. I'm definitely nervous.

For those who have run this, what is the course like?

I usually run 5-7 miles 3 times per week. I was looking into the Hal Higdon Novice 2 program. Is this the best training program? Except for the long run each week, most of the days have 3-5 mile runs. Do I still follow the program and only run 3-5 miles? Should I continue running 5-7 miles at a time for another few weeks?

Should I buy a hydration belt to wear for the longer runs? If so, which one? Is it necessary to wear a belt at the race or are the water stations sufficient?

How do you normally dress for such a long race? Is it best to wear layers or dress lightly? Is a visor necessary?

I haven't bought sneakers since June. They feel fine, but if I do replace them, it may take me a little while to break new shoes in. I've had some issues with blisters and new sneakers before. Should I replace them now and break them in before I really start training?

Any other advice?

Questions about the half marathon

Okay. I'll try to answer each of the questions, but first I think if you run 5-7 3x per week you are going to do very well in a half.

1. Hal Higdon Novice 2 is a good program to follow. I like all of his programs. I would follow the program as he writes it even though it is tempting to run more. The long runs require a bit of rest going into them. But until you're ready for the program continue what yo u already do.

2. I hate hydration belts. I think they are very annoying. But to each their own. You can try it. I just carry a small bottle on my training runs and stop at the water stops on the way on race day.

3. I dress warm because I am always cold. I never run in less than capris and tank. Usuallly the LI Half is chilly in the morning and nice by the time you finish. Watch the weather predictions. One year was cold and rainy and another was super hot. So you have to dress accordingly. If you have layers that you don't mind throwing off on the side of the road you can do that.

4. I'd buy new sneakers at least 2 months before the race and use them for your training. You want them to be comfortable on race day.

Lastly, just have fun. It's not the most exciting half. The route is a little borning in places. Be ready mentally for a few areas with no spectators cheering you on. Don't get too caught up in a finishing time goal for your first half. Just run the best you can and be happy with the accomplishment when you're done.

Good luck.

Re: Questions about the half marathon

Thank you! Is the course pretty flat? I'm trying to figure out how much to incorporate hills into my training. My neighborhood is pretty flat.

On the days that the program recommends cross training, what's the best thing to do?

Questions about the half marathon

Super flat except the on/off ramp heading on to the parkway. That is actually a tough spot because you're already 10 miles in. It's not too bad though.

Questions about the half marathon

I did the LI half last May. I won't lie to you, the course is pretty boring, but it's easy and very flat. It's great for a first timer.

1. Hal Higdon is great. I followed his plan for both half marathons I've done and my first full in November. I really like his plans. They are great preparation. I would follow the weekly shorter runs according to his plan and run one long run on weekends. It's more than enough training, plus you don't want to get injured by overtraining.

2. I use hydration belts, but sometimes they tend to ride up and get annoying. Make sure you get one snug enough that it doesn't move too much, but is still comfortable. Definitely try them on beforehand. I have a ifitness belt and I love it. It holds my phone perfectly. I use it mainly to hold my phone and gels. For water there are stops every 2 miles so a water belt isn't really necessary for just that purpose.

3. Last year when I ran that race it was seasonably cool that day (around 55 degrees). But believe it or not that's perfect weather for running. I wore a tank top and shorts that day and I was 100% fine, and I'm usually always cold. You will warm up while running. I always followed the general rule of thumb that you will feel 20 degrees warmer while running than the actual outside temp. It rings true for me. So if it's 60 outside, dress for 80 degree weather.

4. I would get new sneakers about 2 months before the race. Don't make the mistake I did and get them immediately before. I did that my first half and injured myself. It's important to break your sneakers in first. Get fitted for sneakers if you haven't already at an actual running store to make sure you are wearing the proper shoe for you feet, stride and gait. And try to get a half size bigger than you actually wear. I got black toenails (sorry for the TMI) from wearing my actual size shoe. Your feet swell from running and if the shoe is snug you can injure your toenails from the impact of hitting the shoe every time your foot strikes the ground. I never knew that and I wish someone told me. You want to give your feet and toes room to move.

Good luck and have fun!!! Completing a half is a wonderful accomplishment. You will never forget the feeling of crossing the finish line the first time! It's amazing!!!!!

Re: Questions about the half marathon

I feel the same... Course is so boring. MORE magazine is having a women's half marathon in April in Central Park- I highly recommend that one !

Re: Questions about the half marathon

how far in advance did you prepare for the half