Online training program for half marathon

[geordiemacminx]

I have just "won" a place to do the Great North Run in October. I have never run before, well apart from the odd bit of cross country at school.

Does anyone know of an online training program that I can follow - just to make sure I am doing it right, and that I am working my way to the right goal - doing enough etc?

Many Thanks.

right - i would start by a) getting a really really good pair of trainers from a proper shop not just any old sports shop.

then follow these This podcast for 8 weeks to get you up to 5km then follow something like This (down the bottom) for the rest of it. There are a few threads - one for experienced runners who would be able to help you with troubles or a couch potato to 5KM thread in 8 weeks where We we are all at different stages but know what each other is going through.

oops forgot to say well done for entering the race!

Whats a podcast?

I am doing it to raise money for Debra, the charity that supported Vio, and her som James that died last year - you may have seen some of her posts?

Thanks for the help.

Geordie - I haven't read the threads but huge respect and hats off to you for doing such a thing for a very worthy cause.

an mp3 player geordie - I got a 'zen stone' from amazon for 20 quid and it's great. you copy the stuff on that page I linked to onto your computer, ten transfer it to the zen stone That chap talks you through the 0 - 5 km week by week telling you when to stop/start. etc. very good - got me off me jacksey and I'm now on week 5, only 3 more to go

I've got an mp3 player.... loaded with rubishy dance tunes -will def have a listen to that though, honestly since having ds I am so not down with the kids anymore... never downloaded a podcast

I was going to do th great south run last year but Such a shame that DS2 was due at that time ( te he!!). I would do some small races before hand such as race for life 5km and a 10km as well as its bl**dy hard just running 14 miles without knowing what you are in for. I am so lazy and unfit. Signed up for a 10km the year before and almost hid in the bushes after the first 1km. But I finished. DS was so proud so glad I did it. Well done for starting!!! Google runners world they have some good advice

Hi Furball and GMM. Great news re the run GMM. I;ve had a look at the podcasts and think I might forget about the arthritis in the hip and give this a go. Only thing is I can't seem to download any of them. Is that cos I am on the mac or is there a technique that has passed me by?

I am doing the Paris 1/2 marathon in 2 weeks time. I got a good book from amazon called 'the absolute beginners guide to half marathon training'. Have found it quite useful, their main aim is to prevent injuries.

Yes, good shoes are a must. Some specialist running shops will get you to go on a treadmill in the shop and video your ankles to analyse your form. You feel stupid, but it is useful to know if you are flat footed etc as it will make a difference as to what the best shoe is. My shoes are Saucony - best shoes I have ever had, although different people have different needs.

Also handy to invest in some good sports socks - they can be about £10 a pair (expensive I know, but worth it) as they can give really good cushioning and prevent blisters.

Finally, Bodyglide - you put it on all the areas where friction occurs (feet, underarms, thighs etc) and it stops blisters.

Enjoy