Half Marathon?

[howiwonder]

I'm thinking of signing up to a half marathon in September. I think this might be insane -

baby is not almost 4 months old so I am post baby, massively unfit, still a bit achey joints and about a stone and half heavier than i would like to be. Also have DS1 who has just turned 3. Am generally a bit knackered and lacking in energy.

BUT i have run on and off over the years, never as much as a half marathon, most i did was great south run about 5 yrs ago. And for some reason I am really drawn to the idea of doing this, but I'm scared I wont find time or energy to train.

Is 7 months enough time for someone who is as unfit as me to get half marathon ready? Is this a good idea or a really bad one?!

[Belugagrad]

Its not crazy at all, 7 months is long enough I think especially as you have some experience. Also in 7 months your baby will be nearly 1.

However, babies change so much in the first yr and with regards to sleep I would worry that you might be too tired/ putting too much pressure on yourself in baby's first year. I think what your asking what would alot easier this time next yr.

how much support do you have at home? How much training can you do? I ask because I think for this to work re: childcare for training you need the support of your partner/childcare.

Advantages to a half marathon is that training runs don't really get longer than 90mins, so you can still have a life, whereas with a marathon it eats up your whole weekend. Maybe go for a 10k this summer in addition to or instead of? I'm sure you can do a half and it would be a great way to focus on getting fit and focus on yourself which is very healthy after having children. Just don't put too much pressure on yourself.

[howiwonder]

Thanks for the reply. I think you talk sense, am starting to wonder if its a bit much. DS2 has actually been very ill in his short life, and although he is recovering well, perhaps it is the wrong time in my life to take on this challenge.

I'm just desperate to feel a bit better about myself and do something for me - I know exercise is always a great way to lift my spirits. My husband works fairly normal hours, im on mat leave, so my training would be evenings and weekends which isnt too bad, especially as the evenings will be getting lighter. but i think a half marathon might be a bit much considering ive never done one before. Im off to look into a 10k around the same time, seems like the most sensible option.

definitely want to try a half marathon one though!!! (never a marathon though, i know my limits!)

[Belugagrad]

I completely understand where you are coming from, my
Lo is 18 months and I think this time next year you'll be able
To take it on no problem. You seemed to have some good time to train and it is good to get out running ad be fully off duty, so deffo stick with the running! Race for life do some 10k events. A strong 10k will give you major confidence for the half.

I have heard too many marathon horror stories from
Ppl I consider good runners, I'm fully put off!

[howiwonder]

Race for life 10k in my city at beginning of July, perfect!
I'm signing up tomorrow, thanks alot for the advice.
Oh god, I'm actually going to have to get out and start running again- that wont be a pretty sight!

[Belugagrad]

Brilliant! let me know how you get on :)

PS Isn't it scary when you actually sign up making it all official!