1/2 Marathon Recovery

[Deleted User]

I've just run my second 1/2 marathon (Helsby) in 1hr 46m, knocking 8min off my first attempt last Sept. Despite all the post race warmdowns and stretching, my thighs and hamstrings were wrecked for three days after (they've had 52 years use). Went for a gentle 3 miler today and now feel fine but the question is when do I start full training again?
I'm doing Wilmslow in March and was intending to resume right away with a long run this weekend. Is this wise or should I build back up again gradually?
There seems plenty of good training advice for preparing for races but not so much for recovery.
Any advice welcome.

[Deleted User]

Congratulations on your excellent PB Pint of Stella. If you feel fine now there's no reason you shouldn't do a long run this weekend - you won't be running at anywhere near race pace presumably. Recovery from a 1/2 if you were well prepared shouldn't take very long if your muscles don't feel sore anymore, though your faster sessions might be a little harder this week.

I did Helsby too, and am planning long run on Sunday - won't say how long until I've done it just in case!
Good luck in Wilmslow - another PB on the cards I wouldn't be surprised, by all accounts it's a fast course.