I’ve finally found the time to figure out a semi-training plan for my next half marathon. Though as I write this post, I’m still not 100% convinced I’ll run the half or change over to the 10k, either way…I’ll train for it and see what happens.
Race: Maritime Race Weekend
When: September 16 & 17th.
Location: Cow Bay, Nova Scotia
Number of runners: 2,500
Fun: It’s a double race weekend. Friday night 5k and Saturday Half (or 10k).
Claim-to-fame: Best.Race.Ever., Pirate theme and crazy cool medals!
Years Participating: Twice. In 2014, I ran the 5k & 10k – both PB’s and then volunteered in 2015 after getting injured for the second time. You can read about my 5k race here, my 10k race here and volunteering last year here.
In the past I’ve used Hal Higdon’s training plans which I love but this time around I’m changing things up and kinda using his format but kinda not. This time around, I’m playing soccer AND coaching both girls so that takes up my Sunday, Monday and Wednesday nights. I’m not going to stress over getting in a run or workout on those days but will do something as my work and home life schedules permit.
My plan
So between soccer, coaching, yoga, running and still wanting to add in cycling, swimming (for fun) and hitting up GoodLife Fitness when I’m in the city…it’s going to be an all-over-the-place training cycle. I’ve committed to training for the half but my heart and head aren’t ready for that distance. I’m hoping in time, I’ll be ready to run the half distance again or settle with nailing an awesome 10k (I kinda love the course).
Elevation Map for MRW Half Marathon
I’m looking forward to getting back into my long runs as I’ve missed those but I am hoping to run a little less this time around 3-4 times a week. So, here’s to an increase in my laundry pile, purchasing more hair conditioner and deodorant then one should really need, many litres of Nuun consumed, #runches and 10-12 weekly blog posts keeping you up-to-date on my training! Cheers!
Anyone else training for Maritime Race Weekend? (Or a fall race?)
Do you always stick to a training plan?
How do you incorporate other activities into your training?
Piper's Run 
Other activities? What are those? I become so single minded when it comes to a training plan- I am afraid to do anything else! Good luck with your training!
I was really afraid to put soccer back into the mix, one wrong step and I could get injured instantly but then again, that can happen anywhere!
Thanks 🙂
YAY!!
I hope you are ready for more long runs together 😉
My training plans have always incorporated a lot of cross training! It makes training a lot more fun. As I always say, endurance is endurance.
My last half marathon I did more cross training and loved it. Now adding soccer into the mix will be my hidden speed work 🙂
All of these double races seem to be all the rage right now! I am not sure I could do a half after doing a race the night before.
I questioned the double race too but this event is a lot of fun. Friday night people dress up and run as pirates (not everyone) and it’s timed but still just more of a good time atmosphere. Saturday it gets more serious (no costumes).
That looks like a fun race! What training plan are you following, or did you create that yourself? Good luck!
I loosely used Hal Higdon’s training plan but took out a few things to make it fit other things going on.
I”m so excited for you! I know how much you love this race!
Sounds like a good plan to me! I’ve had a lot of success with cutting back on running days to add in more cross training. I think the various activities will make you a stronger runner!
Fingers crossed!
I’m now running a half in Maui, but that’s purely for fun because there’s no way I’ll be able to get my body acclimated!
Adding in more cross training has definitely made me a stronger so I’m hoping to have a good year next year.
Maui!!!! That will be amazing!
This sounds like a great run with a lot of people! I try to add in strength training as well to switch it up.
This sounds like a great race. I always try to mix up my training I get bored easily.
It’s a great race and weekend! I get bored too, I think that’s why I’m enjoying adding in some other activities right now.
I’m not too excited over that elevation chart. I like races flat haha
I have followed a plan (in the past) for my marathons,but have taken the liberty to modify them as needed. I have done so many halfs that I don’t really “need” to train for them much since I’m kind of always ready with my long runs/endurance. I’m gonna be working with a coach this fall (Route 66 Marathon in November), though, for the first time ever…..kinda of nervous but very excited to try something new. Good luck with your training!!
Having the 10k to fall back onto sounds like a great back up plan if your training doesn’t go as planned. I had the same option at ZOOMA last month, and thankfully wound up being able to run the half as originally planned.
I have s hard time fitting everything in too! I think running 2-3x/week is enough when you are active other days with other things.
The off days I do Pilates or yoga.
It sounds like an awesome race! I’ve never been to Nova Scotia, I hope you have a great time! Your training plan looks awesome! I need to do more speed work and crosstraining like you!
My plans used to include a lot of running, now they include everything-weights, yoga, biking, etc. Good luck on your training.
I think training for a big race is exciting and this is one of your favorites so even more fun! Good luck! I use a trainer so I just follow the directions 🙂
Pingback: Week 3 Maritime Race Weekend Half Marathon Training | Piper's Run
Pingback: Polar A300 Activity Tracker | Piper's Run
Pingback: Maritime Race Weekend Training Week 9 | Piper's Run
Pingback: Maritime Race Weekend Training Week 11 | Piper's Run
For me rest days are hiking or museum or shopping days. You can socialize , meet friends but actually opportunity for my legs to go thru active recovery
Rest days for me usually include chasing my kids around.