[racer122]

I've searched (get that out first)...<br><br>
I'm training for my first half marathon, coming up about a month from now. I'm in pretty solid shape, and went for my long run today, with a plan for maybe 8 miles. I felt so good that I kept going (straight uphill!) and finished out with running a full half marathon, plus a little...<br><br>
Anyhow, this is the longest run I've ever completed in my life, 13.44 done in 2:10 (9:44 per mile), with an 1100 foot altitude gain, starting at 8000 feet.<br><br>
Should I be happy with this? I can't seem to find a reasonable comparison (Oh, I'm 40, and have been a summer runner for several years).<br><br>
The half marathon I'm training for is a trail marathon, called the "Golden Leaf Half Marathon" -- not that I guess that matters much, guess I'm still pumping endorphins.<br><br>
thanks for any advice offered...

 

[Ziggy]

Sounds pretty good to me Racer.<br>
I don't think you can make comparisons, unless you compare with someone who has run the exact same run or you go out and run it again and I wouldn't do that with your first Half comming up within a month.<br>
The fact that you are feeling so good is a good indicator that you have trained up well.<br>
Keep a lid on your miles from now on, shorter, sharper runs at faster than your race pace should really bring you up to peak.

 

[racer122]

Thanks Ziggy,<br>
I appreciate the suggestions, and I'll probably train the remaining month at a 4.7 mile daily rate, with a 6 or 8 on the weekends.<br><br>
I really don't know what kind of time to expect, or even hope for. I guess the reality will tell!<br><br>
Funny thing about today was that I didn't anticipate going so far, and I was pretty unprepared. It's very rural, extremely so. At some point I considered stopping and asking some passing bicyclists (it's a popular bike route) for a sip of their water. yikes.

 

[missy1102]

agree with above poster.<br><br>
it sounds like you are in a good place. honestly. you've trained adequately.. currently injury free.. etc.<br><br>
its always hard to predict what race day will be like as many things can affect your race but i think you should be assured that you are capable of running 13.1 miles and to take it easy the next few days prior to the race <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.kickrunners.com/forum/images/smilies/cool.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="Cool">

 

[Flounder]

You need to compare it to what you expect and are capable of - If you compare to others - who do you want to compare yourself to? World record for women's marathon is 2:15:XX or @ 5:10 pace<br><br>
Be proud that you are running and taking time to be fit - You heart and body are smiling.<br><br>
If you want to become a year round runner - great progress can be made.