A Fool-Proof Training Guide for Bucks County's Half Marathon

It finally looks like we might be getting a respite from the less-than-perfect weather we've been having for the past couple of months. And it couldn’t come at a better time. 

The second annual Bucks County Half Marathon is on April 3 -- a meager two months away -- and we need to start training... hard!

The weather forecast for this weekend and the upcoming week looks promising. Yes folks, it's the perfect time to dust off your running shoes, get out your chilly weather gear, and start pounding the pavement.

For those of you who haven’t worked up the gusto to register for this scenic trek, you are in luck.  Registration is still open at www.buckscountymarathon.com.

If the mere thought of running 13.1 miles makes you tired, fear not.  Although a half marathon is a definite challenge, it is still manageable for those of you who are relatively new to the sport of running.  The best part is, you can begin training today and be perfectly prepared for the big day. And who can argue that the race locale -- Tyler State Park -- is second to none.

When it comes to endurance races, the Bucks County Half Marathon promises to set itself apart from the competition.  Runners often have to flock to the big cities to have an opportunity for a well-organized, well-attended race.  Although running in Philly is without a doubt, phenomenal, there is nothing better than running a race in the area in which you train, and live.

As far as training goes, there are myriad online resources that offer schedules and plans that typically span between eight to 10 weeks.  There are several schools of thought when it comes to endurance training but, personally, I choose to train in a time-effective way. My half marathon training plan is ideal for the full-time employee, the busy mom, the college student, or all of the above. 

I've arranged this plan specifically for the Bucks County Marathon, which, as I mentioned before, is on April 3 at 8:00 AM. Essentially, you will begin this weekend running two miles on either Saturday or Sunday.  For the next seven weekends, you will choose either Saturday or Sunday to be your "push-run" day.  A push-run is one that covers more distance than the shorter runs you will do during the week. 

I recommend that you run at least two and a half miles, two times a week in addition to the long runs on the weekend.  These shorter runs will keep up your fitness and endurance, but not leave you exhausted during the week. Here's the mileage and schedule I recommend:

February 12th or 13th – 2 miles

February 19th or 20th – 4 miles

February 26th or 27th – 5 miles

March 5th or 6th – 6 miles

March 12th or 13th – 7 miles

March 19th or 20th – 8 miles

March 26th or 27th – 10 miles

April 3rd- Race Day! (13.1 miles)

Almost as important as the long run during the weekend is the recovery day that follows.

When I trained for my first marathon, I often ran the day after a long run.  Big mistake. I didn't leave my muscles, tendons, and internal organs time to recover from the stress of a strong, hard run.

Once I adopted the policy of taking a day of rest after my longest runs, I found greater success (and much less pain). If you cannot go a day without exercise (and yes, there are some of you out there) use this day to practice some light yoga or pilates.

If you have yet to register for what promises to be a great race,  I hope I've motivated you to feel confident in your ability take on this challenge.  For those of you who are registered and raring to go, best of luck and health in your training.