Marathon Training: Week 1

Week 1

Monday 4^th May

Distance: 11.6km (time of 1hour)

Location: Altona

Keith Fearnley suggested that instead of running a specific distance, try running for a set time (1 hour) and see how far you can get.

The change in mentality gave me a fresh challenge in my running, which is essential as doing the same type of training week in, week out can lead to boredom and giving in.

The run was a flat course along the Altona beach front, a beautiful location worth exploring. It wasn’t too hot, though the wind on the return journey made it difficult to maintain the early pace.

I managed a consistent pace across the 60minutes, what helped was the fact that Keith said I could take a break if I wanted to. Usually I’m quite determined to carry on, but took two minutes to stretch at the halfway point, catch my breath and push on. It certainly helps when someone gives you the option and takes the pressure off.

Tuesday 5^th May – Rest day with 60minutes walking.

Wednesday 6^th May – Rest day with 60minutes walking

Thursday 7^th May

Distance: 5.95km and 5.68km (11.63km total)

Location: Altona

The emphasis again was to keep my legs working for one hour, but instead of doing one whole run, I decided to run for 30minutes to the swimming pool swim for an hour, then run for 30minutes back.

This helped build up the strength in my legs, whilst also allowing my body time to recover.

The route was flat and included Cherry Lake, so a fairly decent route.

Focussing on getting to and from a destination really helped give the run purpose, something to keep in mind when next planning your day for exercise and needing to go somewhere.

Friday 8^th May – Rest day with 60minutes walking.

Saturday 9^th May

Distance: 13.8km

Location Altona

This run was scheduled to be my longest of the week (1hr 15mins) so I gradually built up to it. Keith instructed me to go out slow and choose a hilly course to build up strength and resistance in my legs.

The Altona steps provided the ideal route as it is approx. 4km of flat to the hill, it was steady and really warmed the legs up, then each lap is 1km so with six reps up and down I was able to power up on the ascent and recover on the descent.

On the return leg I was able to run negative splits and my pace per kilometre continued to drop, I even managed a sprint finish, as I felt so strong towards the end.

Sunday 10^th May – Rest day with 60minutes walking.