I started running last September and am now doing at least four runs each week. I mainly run at lunchtime and so am limited to about 2.5 miles per time but over the last few weeks I have run 4, 5 and then 6 miles on Sunday.
I use Monday, Thursday and Saturday as rest days when I will do a 30 minute stretching routine.
So, should I continually add a mile each Sunday? Where does it end. My reason for running is to lose weight and get fit. When I have I might consider racing.
So, "How far should the long run be?"
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No right or wrong, good luck
If you decide to start racing, then your long run will be couched round the distance. For example a long run for a 10k , may only be 7 miles ish, whereas an 18-20 mile long run (built into a proper programme)would be right for a full marathon.
As you are not looking for a race at the moment, just increase your mileage gradually and go from there.
I've been able to build up to 8-10 miles, but it starts to get silly after that.
During recent training for a HalfMara, I had to start having a few odd days off work, so that I could do an "intermediate" distance run (7-9M) to allow me to get any benefit from a 12M+ weekend run.
I am going to aim for 6 miles consistently and then do an 8 mile run once a month. I know the more I run the more calories I'll burn but if I do progress to racing I think that 10K would be may goal.
Once I am fitter there is a 3.5 mile run that I could do at lunch - at the moment it takes too long with my 15 minute stretching cool down and shower. I will probably change my rest days around in a month or so and add a longer run on Monday evening as well as Saturday in order to up my milage.
Thanks for your comments.
I found by switching to either evenings or before work were better, as I was able to give myself time to sort myself out.
There are considerable disadvantages. It takes a lot mentally to get up even eralier that I do on a standard work day (currently 6.15 am). And its even harder after a days work and having of course to run in the dark this time of year. But it does give me the opportunity to run for a little longer without the pressure of having to get back to work/ start work.
Incidently, you are quite capable of doing a 10k now. Just take your first one easy, dont go blasting off, and you will find you will cover the distance.When picking a 10k race, I always look at previous years results to check Im not entering a race beyond my capability (as I am a slower runner). You will probably surprise yourself. Good luck!!
I'll see what happens when the morning's get lighter and might change things but then I need to find something to do at lunchtime.
Good luck with the lunchtime runs!
I also aim not to weigh myself until March when I hope to be pleasantly surprised. Certainly beginning to feel the benefits now.
KeepOnRunning.
I accept that I over did things and now need to take a few days off and re-evaluate.
I know that time on your feet is paramount but am obsessed with pace and distance as well. I just want to run further and faster.
Will set new goals = 4*30min runs in the week and 1*60min run at the weekend = 180 mins of running. Do that for a couple of weeks and then add 18 mins to the weekend run.