Running a half marathon is a little intimidating since you’re still relatively new to running. You love the training despite your worries about running your first Manchester half marathon. However, there are some points you wish you had known before you began. Training for a half marathon may be a lot of fun, and it can have long-term benefits such as better moods, weight loss, higher energy levels, and a new perspective.
Besides that, it is a journey that can be divided into smaller segments; there is no need to consider it a single large difficulty. To assist other beginners, we’ve compiled a list of points you must know before beginning your Manchester half marathon training.
Stick to Training Plans
The very first thing you must do is create training plans. To see daily progress, you must make a plan and adhere to it. However, the plan must be appropriate for you, which implies it should not be too difficult or too easy since this will negatively influence progress.
Begin Slowly
When you initially begin exercising, it’s tempting to make the mistake of pushing yourself to the limit too soon, but this may lead to damage if you’re not cautious. When you begin to feel extremely weary, there is no guilt in slowing it down or even walking. As you proceed through your training session, the amount you need to slow down may reduce as you grow fitter.
Go for Easy Runs
Easy runs are the best method to rebuild your body after those stressful speed runs. These slow runs get the blood moving, which improves recovery and flushes away the lactic acid, swelling, and other nasties.
Even if you don’t feel exhausted, maintain your easy runs slowly throughout your Colchester half marathon preparation. Nobody’s simple runs are ever easy enough. When you undertake an effort-based run, you pull money out of the bank. The lovely, smooth, steady runs are the money that brings money back into the account. We’re in credit if we keep pushing hard and racing at race speed; the only way to get back up is to do more easy runs.
Use the Appropriate Gear
Training in worn-out running shoes or shoes unsuitable for running will impede your progress. Buying a nice pair of running shoes (they don’t have to be expensive) may boost support and comfort, reducing running injuries and aches. A variety of specialised running stores can assess your feet and recommend the ideal trainers for you.
Eat and Drink Wisely
Exercising is just half the fight; you must also drink and eat the right drinks and foods. Learn how to feed your body optimally throughout Manchester half marathon training to understand better what you must eat in the days leading up to race day. Avoid eating heavy meals shortly before a workout to avoid acquiring a stitch. It would be best if you didn’t allow a full stomach to prevent you from giving your best performance.
Peak First, Then Taper
It may surprise you that your Colchester half marathon training should peak two weeks before the race. In other words, your most extensive long run should be 14 days ahead of your race, and you should progressively reduce your training afterwards.
This interval of rest is known as the half marathon taper. The objective is to lessen the intensity of your workout while keeping the same distance. Your taper provides some relief to your body and helps micro-tears in your muscles to recover. This implies that your body will be refreshed and poised for victory come competition day.
Warming Up and Cooling Down
Warming up might enhance your training sessions. It helps avoid injuries while preparing your body for activity by improving blood flow to your muscles.
Moreover, warming up with some modest physical exercise and dynamic stretching is a good idea. Don’t forget to cool down after that to return your body to a resting condition. For example, you may want to include some stretching and walking into your cool down.
Let the Body Time to Heal
When you first start exercising, you may believe you must workout daily to see the benefits. However, if you’re new to running, you don’t want to overwork your body by exercising too much. Your body needs rest and recovery time, so if you’re hurting more than normal, take a day off – listen to your body!
Don’t Simply Run
This may seem strange given that you’re preparing for a marathon, but changing your workout routine may be beneficial. Going to the gym or swimming might offer your joints much-needed relaxation after a long day of jogging. It also allows you to vary your workouts so that you don’t tire of doing the same thing repeatedly.
Conclusion
Remember that this post is only a road plan that will comfortably bring you to a realistic goal. Taking advantage of your rest days is important since your health will improve, and it will better prepare you for the Manchester half marathon.
Meta Description: Are you preparing to run your first Manchester half marathon? Here are some pointers to get you started on the right track! Be prepared and achieve your goals now!
