Sunday, February 22, 2009
Running Half Marathons 2 weeks Apart
I've been debating whether or not to run a half marathon 2 weeks before a half that is particularly important to me. I've never run large races that close together. I know some of you do this often though. Does running the full length of a race this close to another race usually help or hurt your time? Any advice would be appreciated.:)
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7 comments:
A lot has to do with your experience level, but I think generally it depends on what your goals are. Are they simply to enjoy the experience and finish each race or to actually race them and get a personal record from each one?
Personally, I don't think it would be wise to race them both. 13 miles is still quite a bit of stress on your body and typically it takes at least a couple of weeks to fully recover from it. If it were me, I'd go ahead and run both races, but use the first one explicitly as a training run for the second (since the second race is the most important one to you). I wouldn't worry about time whatsoever... just a slow and steady pace that gets you across the finish line feeling strong and ready for more. After taking a couple of days to rest, I'd start a taper and prepare for the "real" race in two weeks.
Just my two cents!
If you take the first one easy, like a training run, I think you'll be fine.
I'm doing the same thing, but three weeks apart and am worried about this as well. I would love any advice on a taper plan between the two.
I think all of your advice is good. I was planning on running the first one slow and putting my energy into the second one. Your input is appreciated!
I am planning to do the same...mine are four weeks apart....I am still wondering what miles to do between the two races....any advice would be great!!!
You can do it! I've run 2 marathons with only 4 weeks in between. I really didn't feel any different for the second than I did for the first. In fact, because of circumstances I felt even better for the second!
Good advice from everyone! I think your plan to run the first as a training run is great. Just enjoy it!
Let us know how they both go. I love race reports!!
Niki- I am excited that you are doing 2 half marathons as well. I will be running the one in May with you and my sis in law Kristyn.
Amber and Niki- As far as mileage in between, here is what I would do. I would give yourself the first week to recover, running a few miles the 4th day or so. Make sure you ice, stretch and really baby your body. Then follow the last 3 or 4 weeks of whatever training plan you were following, taking it easy if you need to on some of the days. Good luck!!
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