Week 1: Tuesday (10 minutes); Thursday (13 minutes); Saturday (1 mile, however long it takes to finish)
Week 2: Tuesday (16 minutes); Thursday (19 minutes); Saturday (2 miles)
Week 3: Tuesday (19 minutes); Thursday (22 minutes); Saturday (2.5 miles)
Week 4: Tuesday (22 minutes); Thursday (25 minutes); Saturday (3 miles)
Week 5: Tuesday (25 minutes); Thursday (28 minutes); Saturday (3. 5 miles)
Week 6: Tuesday (20 minutes); Thursday (30 minutes); .Race Day! (usually Saturday or Sunday)
Other tips:
- Train with a friend. Not only will training with a friend be more fun, it will also give you an accountability partner and support system when the training feels challenging.
- Invest in the right gear. Go to a store that specializes in running shoes and have yourself fitted for the best shoes for your feet and running style. Most races will provide you with a moisture-wicking shirt, but don’t forget to have a good pair of socks for race day, too.
- Plan for a successful race day. Don’t race on an empty stomach. Eat a light breakfast of carbohydrates and finish at least 30 minutes before start time. A whole bagel, banana or oatmeal are great. Make sure you are well hydrated with water and allow yourself extra time to get to the race location.
Remember, you are not competing with anyone. You just need to finish what you started.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ‘Ask Dr. Renee’. Follow me on Twitter @AskDrRenee and on my website.