Runners...Advice needed!

Hi all - I just had my second child about 3 mos ago and am trying to get back into a running routine. I've been running outside in the late afternoons/evening and always with one of my two boys in the jogging stroller, usually averaging 3-4 miles. My goal is to complete Cow Harbor in September. Can anyone offer any advice on a training schedule to follow or any tips on what worked for them regarding mileage, when you ran, etc? What I did before my second son isn't working for me because I need to balance running with taking care of the boys, working, etc. I'd appreciate any advice immensely.

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

I'd love to hear opinions too.

I have two DC. I run 4-5x a week- about 3-4 miles (no jogging stroller). I registered for Cow Harbor but I am doubtful about being able to do it!

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

I am running Cow Harbor as well and if you can run 4 miles, you can run 6.

Try to add a day of sprints in during the week. It will increase your overall endurance.

I only run 3 days a week(then weight train 3 times a week).

My schedule looks like this:
Monday-weights
Tuesday-Sprints
Wednesday-Weights
Thursday - 3 miles with jog stroller
Friday weights
Saturday - 5 to 6 miles

It was the sprints that overall led to an increase in endurance.

Also, if u are running cow harbor, try to run that route once a week(or as much as you can). That's what I started doing last week.

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

I am terrible when it comes to training, but last year I did a 5K in July and after that decided I would do Cow Harbor.

I did not have a strict training regimen at all, I just tried to run as often as I could and worked my way up to 6 miles. I probably ran 3 or 4 days a week.

I did Cow Harbor in the time I thought I would and had a great time! I am hoping to beat my time this year.

You should definitely train on some hills though - James Street and Pumpernickel Hill are brutal!

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

I know how you feel about running with 2 kids...you just make it work. I get up at 5:30 to run before DH has to go to work. When the weather isn't as hot, I will wait until he is finished working.

I know you will do great...you did great last year and that was 8 weeks pregnant!!

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

Thanks everyone. I did Cow Harbor last year so I know what to expect from it. I'm just concerned about my endurance because I'm having issues finding time to run as much as I'd like to when I do some training, I want to do things that are the best for me. I'm hoping to at least meet the same time I finished in last year. I'll definitely do some sprints and hill training when I can.

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

I forgot to mention to check out Hal Higdon's training schedules...I think he has good advice and schedules.

I'm going to be doing the practice runs starting next Wed night if you want to meet up. or I'd be more than happy to run it with you when you can make some time.

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

Thanks so much Erica! I'll definitely take you up on that soon.

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

Not a mom so no advice but just so happy to have you back!!!

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

Posted by azoodie

Not a mom so no advice but just so happy to have you back!!!

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

You def can do Cow Harbor if you can do 4 miles. I run 3-4 miles a day x 4-5 times a week on my "good" weeks. I did a 10K just fine with that schedule.

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

Posted by Reese1106

Posted by azoodie

Not a mom so no advice but just so happy to have you back!!!

Thanks! When I get back into my groove, we'll have to do some runs together. We never got to do any before I got pregnant.

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

Posted by azoodie

Why do you have to get your groove back? Let's do it anyway! I'm working my knee back up now so I am not at peak condition anyhow

Re: Runners...Advice needed!

I totally think you can do this too. When is the race?

Re: Runners...Advice needed!