Runners Lounge

What's Happening in the Lounge

This week's topic is:  Half Marathon Training. 

You can find information on this week's topic by:

• Stopping by the Know How section in the Race Distances/Longe Distances.  
• Searching for runners to "connect with me" on the topic of Half Marathons.   So far, almost 200 runners have selected "Half Marathon" as a "connect with me" topic.  If any of these categories are on your list, do a search (and narrow down the list by using any/all of the 12 demographic filters) and connect with other runners who share your interests.   And don't forget to upate your profile and choose your "connect with me" categories.
• Checking out Lounge Groups too!  Have a spring half marathon planned - join us in the "Think Spring Half Marathon Challenge". 

Because so many of you have offered your help and support to the Lounge over the last year, it only makes sense that we make it even easier to help you help us grow this great running community.  Here are some ways you can help the Lounge community:

• NEW!  Join a running team!  In February and March we are launching community wide running teams around ne runners, half marathoners, marathoners, and boston and beyond runners (for experienced marathoners).  We are looking for enthusiastic runners to help build resources, podcasts, video tips, and support each other.  If you are looking for a way to get or give support, check out this week's post for more details or go to the forum and let us know your ideas. 
• HELP! Got great posts?  If you have any articles, posts, tips, etc that you would like to share with the Lounge, would you take a minute to drop them off in the Know How section.  Or email us with the information you would like to contribute/republish in the Know How section.  We will add it to the "Lounge library" with a link and credit back to you.  
• UPDATE!  Send in your submission to the Runners' Lounge book!  We are so excited about the response so far with many runners letting us know they will be contributing to the book and more than 20 submissions already received.  Check out the original post or forum for more information.

New for 2009, we are taking on a new topic each week.   You can follow along with what's happening by stopping by the What's Happening in the Lounge forum.  We keep it updated with what we are talking about each week and a preview of next week's topic.   If you have ideas or suggestions, feel free to drop them off in that forum as well.

Next Week's Topic:  Marathon Training

Up for another experiment? Let's try "running teams"

We have watched Lounge Groups grow over the last year or so and enjoy watching runners connect over similar interests, races or other goals.   We also heard from many of you looking to connect with other runners for some virtual support over common goals of getting started, running a half marathon, a marathon, or even Boston.  You told us you were looking to build/share training resources (like plans, tips, etc) as well as learn from and support each other.   We think the Lounge can help!

So here is the idea:

• Create "running teams" around four of the most common goals: Getting Started, Half Marathons, Marathons, Boston (and beyond).
• These teams of 4-10 people (to start) will help support and guide other Loungers with similar goals.  They can do it through many ways, but here are some of the ideas we came up with:

• Weekly or biweekly podcasts - the whole team or a smaller subset of the team can gather by phone on a regular basis via Talk Shoe and create podcasts around their teams topic.  The only equipment you need is your running knowledge, your voice and a phone.  Runners' Lounge will make sure it gets published on iTunes and in the Lounge.
• Weekly or biweekly videocasts - anyone on the team can grab their video camera or even their phone and do a quick 2-3 minute video tip on their teams topic and publish them on the Runners' Lounge YouTube account or on their own and post a link in the Lounge.
• Weekly articles - anyone on the team or a small subset working together can create articles on their teams topics.  Or, the team can look through their own blogs or favorite blogs in their reader and find relevent article on the topic and post them in the Lounge.
• Ongoing conversations - Using the Lounge Groups and fourms, share goals, training, progress, and setbacks towards your goals.
• Twitter Tips - the team can share training tips via the Runners_Lounge twitter account

Sound interesting? Useful?  Other ideas?

If you have an interest in leading one of these teams or being part of a team, please drop us a note in the forum.

If there is interest, we will plan on kicking off the Getting Started and Half Marathon Teams in mid February and the Marathon and Boston and beyond groups in March.

And if we move forward with this experiement, we will also need a name for these "teams" - so put your creative thinking caps on. 

Open Mic Friday: Teresa (Tresamomto6)

It's pretty hard not to be inspired by this week's runner.  In addition to bringing a fantastic weight loss story, she also brings a great level of energy.  She is still relatively new to running, but that hasn't slowed her down from completing a 5K and working towards her first half marathon.   And she does it all while raising six children!  In addition to following along with her in the Lounge, you can also catch up with her on her great blog as well. 

 

Welcome to Teresa!   

 

Why did you start running?

I was never very good at sports. I am not very coordinated.  I found running was something I could do and do okay at.  I wanted to find something for exercise that I could enjoy and something I would stick with.  I am a very goal oriented person and running was something I could set tangible goals that I could work towards and achieve.

Tell us about your upcoming half marathon.

I am really nervous about it.  I hadn't actually planned this out.  I had been eyeballing a 25K in September and was going to do that one, but then I asked a family member that runs if they would run it with me and he told me about the half marathon that was local.  I was really nervous about committing to it because I have only ran a 5K before, but I truly believe you can do anything you set your mind to.  This has held true for me for so many things and I have no doubts that if I set my mind to it that I could do it.

What has been the hardest part of training so far?

The COLD.  I hate it.  I have cold induced hives and it is worse when I am exercising in the cold.  I have gotten quite frustrated with that, but have been plugging along through it.  It's been a really bad winter here in Michigan and I am finding myself not getting as many outdoor runs as I would like.  That is honestly the only part that has been really hard for me so far.  I have been doing treadmill runs and hoping that'll be enough.  I've been going outdoors as much as I can and hoping for the best.  I also have to fight off self doubt quite a bit and just stay focused on what I am doing.

What is the most rewarding thing about your running?

The complete satisfaction in knowing that I am doing it.  Now that I am just about at my goal weight I am just really proud of myself for sticking with running even when there is not the weight loss motivation.  I get such a thrill when I finish my long run and that is where running is so rewarding.  Your confidence in yourself goes up and up the more you do it.

What are your tricks/tips for finding time to run?

I have made running a priority.  Before I would feel the need to take care of everything first and then if there was time I would exercise.  Now, I make sure I get in my exercise first and then take care of the other things that need to be done.  I realized after doing this for a few weeks that I managed to work the other things in and the things that didn't get worked back in weren't that important in the first place.  I have given up a lot of my TV time.  I watch 1 to 2 shows a week now, but I feel better than I have ever felt in my life.  I know if I have time to get online or time to watch TV I have time to run.  The only other big thing that has helped me was joining a gym with a daycare.  I used to not be able to get run time in if my husband was working a lot of hours because I didn't have anyone to watch the kids.  Now, if he isn't available or if I know I won't be able to run later in the day I use the treadmill and the daycare at the gym.  That has been a huge help for me in staying on track with my running.

What do you do for fun when you aren't running?

I like doing graphic design, digital scrapbooking, and have recently taken a bigger interest in reading more. 

Tell us about your blog.

My blog is a big thing that keeps me motivated.  I try to write in it regularly to keep myself motivated and encouraged and if I can help motivate someone else then that is great too.  I have lost about 70 lbs, more than that if you count from my highest weight.  Although I have not been overweight my whole life I have found myself as a mom gaining a lot of weight during pregnancy and then not setting time aside for myself to exercise and eat right.  I fell into convenience foods for a while and really had to start being quite pushy about getting the time to exercise.  My blog is my journey on getting and staying fit.

How does your family support your running?

They are not the most supportive, but they aren't unsupportive either.  My husband knows this is important to me so he has gotten pretty good about taking the kids out of my hair so I can get my runs in.  My boys give me a hard time and don't think I can do a half marathon, but I think they know I can.  My girls are pretty supportive.

Any "must have" gear?

My iPod!  I know there are different opinions on headphones and running, but I don't think I could have got started without it.  It's made a huge difference for me on sticking with it.  I don't really have any other gear I swear by. 

What is your favorite run? 

I definitely like long runs much better than short runs.  It takes me to almost 3 miles before I get into things.  I haven't worked up to 10 miles yet, but I'm getting closer to it and looking forward to it. 

Do any of your kids run with you?

My 7 year old daughter really wants to run with me, and I feel guilty that I don't take her with me more.  I just don't have enough time to run with her and run by myself.  Next year she's old enough for Girls on the Run and I am going to sign her up for that and I think that will help.  I would like to start running with her more over the summer when she and I have more time on our hands.  My other kids really aren't interested in running, but I try to keep them active in other things.

Tell us about how you are doing with pushups and sit ups.

I had joined in on the 100 push up challenge and 60 sit ups in a minute challenge, but stopped doing both.  I do much better with my own plans than following somebody elses.  I am still working on the push ups, but started on my own plan.  I hope to be able to do 50 consecutive by the end of the year.  I have been doing 3 sets of push ups every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday and then increase by 1 each week.  I started with 3 sets of 5.  Since I am doing regular push ups and not girly push ups I just couldn't increase at a fast pace on it and I wasn't in a big hurry either.  As far as the sit ups, I ditched that for a more rounded ab workout.  I vary that up, but that is something I am equally determined as running to do.  I love the reaction I get now when I tell people that I have 6 kids.  They just look at me and stare, but not the same way that people usually stare when you tell them you have 6 kids.  I actually had someone ask me if they all came out of my belly and I just laughed.  That makes it worth it (most days).

What are your long term running goals?

I would love to run a marathon, but don't have a projected time on when I'd  like to do it.  I want to see how the half marathon goes first before I commit to anything bigger.  I'd love to see my time improve as well.  I am still really slow.

What is your advice for other runners?

I'm really new at this so a little nervous giving out advice.  I guess my best advice would be to do your best.  I got so scared of running in a race because I was so afraid of being last.  Now, I am not letting that hold me back.  As long as I gave it my all then I am happy.

What is the best running advice you have received?

The best advice I have been given so far and something I repeat to myself on bad days is you're the captain of the ship.  I found myself not wanting to take on  running because of all the rules I thought there were to running.  Now, I read up on running.  I ask for advice and tips, but I keep in mind that ultimately I am the captain of the ship and what works for somebody else might not work for me.

What is the worst running advice you have received?

Honestly, I haven't really gotten any "bad advice".  Either that or I haven't been running long enough to realize it was bad advice.

Take It and Run Thursday: 5K and 10K's

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

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Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans.  

Next weeks theme is .... How to Run Your Best Half Marathon in 2009.   Calling all half marathon lovers this week!  Share your best tip on how you and others can run their best half marathon this year.  We will leave it up to you to define what "best" means - it could be fastest, most enjoyable, building block to a marathon, etc, etc  Surpise us!  :}

 

Click here for a list of great posts on 5K and 10K's.

Ten Reasons to Run a 5K/10K

I must admit, my first love is the half marathon.  I love training for the distance, running the race and the feeling of accomplishment at the end.   But my half marathons don't "run themselves".  They require some diligent effort on my part to be ready for them.  And in addition to putting some miles in on the trails, I also build in 5K, 8K, and 10K races into my training schedule to help me prepare both physically and mentally.  

Since it is 5K and 10K week in the Lounge, I feel like I need to share a few words of appreciation for these unsung heros of my training plan.  Here are the top 10 reasons why everyone should run a 5K, 10K (or even 8K):

1.  Instant motivation.   I have a half marathon coming up in April - which should be motivation enough - but I need an extra "immediate" motivation like races in February and March to keep me focused.  By throwing in a few shorter races as interim milestones, I find I am more motivated to keep my running "appointment" with myself on the treadmill instead of sitting on the coach and eating cookies.

2.  Keeps up my pace.  Left to my own devices, I would run S-L-O-W every run and maybe even drop down below "jogging" to a more of a meander or "wanderabout" type of pace.  It's not that I burn up the roads when I am training for a 5K/10K, but I do pick up the pace because I know that I can run faster and hold on for the shorter distances.

3.  New running partners.  It is so much easier to talk friends (running and nonrunning) into running a 5K/10K versus a half marathon, duathlon, triathlon or marathon.   It has been rare for me to run a 5K/10K without having a new running partner every time.   It is a very doable distance, even for new runners, and is generally a great way to catch up.

4.  Connect with running friends.  The holidays and winter dooldrums keep me from connecting with my favorite running partners.  5K and 10K's give a great reason to get back into shared training routines or at least meet up for a great race.

5.  So many choices.  Even if you are from smaller communities, there are still many more choices for 5K and 10K races over the course of year versus the longer races.   And more choices means a better chance of finding the race(s) that are just right for you.

6.  Great causes.  Almost all the 5K and 10K's that I run support great local and national charities.  In addition to the warm feeling I get from my personal accomplishment, I am proud to help support charities I believe in.

7.   Guaranteed inspiration.  Even if my performance at a race isn't my betst, I have yet to walk away from a race without an infusion of inspiration.  Sometimes it is from the leaders of the race and watching their amazing stride and pace as they pass me.  Other times it is the runners at the back of the pack as they share their story of what brought them to the starting line.   And always I am inspired by the 10 year old who finishes in half my time.

8.  A 5K was my first race.  As CoffeeBetsy wrote so eloquently last year,"It is running's gateway drug."  If it wasn't for the 5K, I may have never known the joy of other distances.  It is the perfect distance to get started or restarted with your running.  Just long enough to know you have "done something" but not so long that you need to dedicate your entire day (or even) morning) to the event.   And I have rarely met a person who has run a 5K and then vowed to never run another one.  Addictive little buggars.

9.  Anyone can do it.  Whether you run all out or walk it, anyone can do a 5K.  With a little bit of training - it is possible.   In less than 6 weeks most people can go from sitter to runner.   There are many great plans (see the 5K and 10K section in the Lounge) from Hal Higdon, FIRST as well as the most famous "Couch to 5K".  

10.  Can you think of anything better to do?  It is hard to imagine a better way to spend your Saturday or Sunday morning.  Imagine hanging out and running with a few hundred 9or thousand) of your running friends, having a great run on a well marked/protected course and with ready to go refreshments at the end.  Sounds like a dream training run to me.

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What's Happening in the Lounge

Image via Wikipedia

New for 2009, we are going to try to tackle a new topic each week.   You can follow along with what's happening by stopping by the What's Happening in the Lounge forum.  We keep it updated with what we are talking about each week and a preview of next week's topic.   If you have ideas or suggestions, feel free to drop them off in that forum as well.

This week's topic is:  5K and 10K's. 

To get you going, you can find information on this week's topic by:

• Stopping by the Know How section in the Race Distances/Short Races and Race Distances/Medium Races.   And for new runners, don't forget the Getting Started section in Know How too.
• Searching for runners to "connect with me" on the topic of 5K's.   So far, over 125 runners have selected "5K" as a "connect with me" topic and over 100 runners have "10K" as a selected topic.  Nearly 50 runners have selected "Getting Started" as a "connect with me" topic.  If any of these categories are on your list, do a search (and narrow down the list by using any/all of the 12 demographic filters) and connect with other runners who share your interests.
• Checking out Lounge Groups too!  There are two new groups that have started in January 2009 for newer runners - Get Fit Live It and Newbie Runners.
• Following us on twitter (runners_lounge). In addition to quick updates about the Lounge, we will be sending out tips and quotes to feed your running needs.

And other in other Lounge news....THE BOOK!   We were excited to announce the Runners' Lounge Book Project last week.  Your fantastic responses in the forum, to our emails and to each other really moved our level of excitement up another notch.  We are ecscatic about the articles you have already submitted and even more excited about how many of you volunteered your talents and time to make the book a reality.   For an update on book news this week, check out the post on the topic.

Because so many of you have offered your help and support to the Lounge over the last year, it only makes sense that we make it even easier to help you help us grow this great running community.  Here are some ways you can help the Lounge community:

• Got articles or great posts?  Our 5K and 10K cupboards are a bit empty.  If you have any articles, posts, tips, etc that you would like to share with the Lounge, would you take a minute to drop them off in the Know How section.  Or email us with the information you would like to contribute/republish in the Know How section.  We will add it to the "Lounge library" with a link and credit back to you.   Come on - all your good knowledge on these topics isn't doing anyone any good just sitting in your archives.   Share the information and drive some traffic to your site!
• Know ExtraOrdinary Runners?  The last week of every month, we celebrate and reward one ExtraOrdinary Runner who leaves their story in the Lounge.   Take a minute to add your great running story about how you started, why you run, your accomplishments or your running charity/community.   You could win $100 for OnLine Shoes.com for your story!  Nothing to share?  Tell us about someone who is deserving of the award! 

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Update on Runners' Lounge Community Book Project

It’s been an exciting week since we announced the community-wide book writing project at Runners' Lounge.  We want to provide an update to everyone.

• To refresh your memory, this project is for runners to work together virtually across the globe to publish a book of insights, wisdom, advice, and tips about running.

• While the deadline isn’t for another month (February 15th), we’ve already had some very helpful, enthusiastic articles sent in.  Wow!  And we’ve been amazed with the generous response to help with editing, design, marketing, and public relations.  We are grateful for everyone’s generous offers to use their talents.  Thank you!

• We’re thrilled to have Coffee Betsy and Marathon Dude Bill join the Advisory Team, a role that will certainly enhance the project success, exploit them, and turn their family lives upside down.  Double thank you!

• Help us spread the word about this fun writing-about-running project!  If you know someone in your running group, your local club, or a blogger who impresses you, please pass the word along them. Please share the information about the project or link to the forum, or even add this widget (shown above) to your sidebar or profile.  

• If you’re thinking of contributing yourself, please leave your comments in the forum so you stay connected and to be kept informed about the project.

• We welcome and encourage more runners to consider sharing your insights and talents and joining your fellow runners to write about running, be published, raise money for charity—all while collaborating on an exciting, innovative book on running.  Your insights can make a far-reaching impact on the world of running!  Plus it’s fun!

Have a great week and keep the articles, ideas, and enthusiasm for the books coming!

Open Mic Friday: Meet Julianne

The best way to face the challenges of  2009 is with running--to be fit, to de-stress, to achieve goals and to have fun.

We wanted the first Open Mic Friday interview of the year to be someone contagiously upbeat.  Her blog name is I *heart* running and she has enough energy in her posts to fuel a long run.  She just wrapped up an exciting year in and outside of running.

We bring you a wonderful runner to kick off the year and we know you'll enjoy meeting her.

Welcome Julianne!

You combined in one year three marathons, a very impressive PR, and oh yeah, you also squeezed in your wedding.  Can you put in words what a year it’s been for you?

2008 was truly a memorable year. Getting married and running 3 marathons (one being a sub-4 hours) were more than I expected for 2008. They were all very big dreams and goals for me. I am thrilled that it all happened in 2008! I am still amazed that I was able to train for a marathon (marathon #4) and plan a wedding at the same time. It was stressful but really rewarding. Also, staved off stress! Running a sub-4 hour marathon for me has been a great accomplishment. Whenever I think of 2008, my heart gets really FULL. :-)

Tell us about your running and blogging friends.

My running really has taken a life of it’s own since I started blogging. I encountered dozens of running bloggers that I share similar running experiences with. Not only that, they encourage and motivate me to the next level. I honestly don’t think I would have signed up to do the California International Marathon in December if it wasn’t for the fellow bloggers. Or run a PR race. Having an outlet to share my running adventures have led me to run more than ever! It’s fun to share my life and running journey, too. The other wonderful thing that came out of blogging is that I have met really wonderful runners who live near me. We’ve connected in various ways and run together regularly. A few of us have even started our own running group! We’re already signed up for a few races in 2009. Watch out for the Running Our Hearts Out (ROHOs)!

Tell us how you got started running and racing? 

It started very benignly on the treadmill at the gym about 7 years ago . The first year I started running, I only ran 1 mile on the treadmill. Then, it led to 2 miles, then 3…. Then, I ventured outside and the rest is history. Running a marathon was on my bucket list and well, after I started running 5+ miles, I decided to look into a marathon training program online!

Most of us have warm climate envy right about now.  Go ahead, make us jealous and tell us how wonderful it is running in the mild climates of California.

Oh man, I ran 8 miles this past Saturday with my husband, along the San Francisco Bay. It was 60 degrees when we finished right before noon. It was sunny, crisp and perfect. It’s been unusually cold this winter in Northern California but still, running in cold weather here is like Spring training anywhere else in the country. I also went out for a lunch time run this week and it was in the mid 50s. It felt so good!

What are you most looking forward to about running in 2009?

SFM 2009! This will be my 5th year running the SF Marathon and really looking forward to it. Not only will I be on the "legacy" list for running 5 year in a row, it's a huge milestone for me. I am also looking forward to beating my PR this year. Of course, the ultimate dream would be to qualify for Boston but I'm going to baby steps, or rather, one minute at a time.

What would your family and friends tell us about your passion for running?  

They think I’m crazy. But in a good way, if there is such a thing! I’ve lost a lot of weight running and they say things like, if YOU can do it, I know I can. Yeah, I was that lazy and overweight before! I’ve incorporated running into my life so that my friends schedule activities around my running schedule. It’s great!

 You have a great blog.  What makes it unique and interesting?

Hmmm. My best guess is that the readers are interested in a not-so-thin girl’s running aspirations and beating the odds (from time to time)? Oh, I really hope that’s what it is! Or maybe they like it when I poke fun at myself. Have you read my latest mishap on my stationary bike at the gym earlier this week?

Which blog posts have been the favorites of your readers?

I really don’t know if there is a “favorite” post but, right after I posted my initial results for the CIM, I had an overwhelming response from my readers and friends. They were all so excited and happy for me! I was really touched and overwhelmed by the comments they left. I need to PR more often!

What gets you excited about running?

I get really excited about my one-on-one time with me when I run! I get so caught up with life that I don't pay enough quality time with myself. I look forward to fresh air, clearing my head and getting in "the zone".

Favorite race?

Hands down, the San Francisco Marathon! It’s not the easiest course but it’s my home race and I absolutely LOVE it. It’s also the first marathon I’ve run and have a deep connection to it. It will also be my 5th year running the SFM this coming July.

Favorite distance?

26.2! I also like other distances, too, but I find I like the marathon distance the most. There's a huge satisfaction and self reward after finishing a marathon. And, like others, I have to really dig DEEP to finish that last 6 miles. It's a place I didn't know I could find or get to. It's a mental challenge for me but "digging keep" really take me to another level.

Greatest running accomplishment?

Running sub-4 hour marathon. Seriously, it’s huge for me!

Current running goals?

Qualifying for the Boston Marathon is next on my agenda. Not sure if I can do it in 2009 but I will definitely try!

Greatest running moment?

I remember seeing the 18 mile marker at the CIM and realizing that I had a good chance at making under 4 hours! I was so excited I wanted to shout it out to the world. I didn't, of course. I saw my husband a few miles later as he was cheering for me and I told him, "I'm going to make it under 4 hours!" I also started tearing up and got all choked up, I couldn't finished my sentence! He understood and was so excited for me. I only saw him briefly but it was really wonderful sharing that moment with him. I'm getting all teary just thinking about it again!

What is one unique thing about you that most people don't know?

I love to volunteer. Currently, I'm in the process of getting trained as a Wish Grantor for Make-a-Wish Foundation. I am really looking forward to getting involved granting wishes to terminally ill children. My most recent volunteering stint was a runinng mentor for Girls on the Run program in the SF Bay Area, for the Lollipop Run in December. I had so much fun with the girls. Several years ago, I also got to combine my love for volunteering and traveling. I got to live in Kazakhstan for 18 months to volunteer and do non-profit work. I also got to travel to various neighboring countries like Uzebekistan, Afghanistan and China. It was a life changing experience!

If money could buy you a running dream, what would it be?

I would love to run a marathon in all 7 continents. Yes, there is one in Antarctica!

Take It and Run Thursday: Training Plans Do's and Don'ts

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... Training Plans Do's and Don'ts.   Happy New Year!  I know many of you are already working on your training plans for 2009.  What tips and tricks have you learned about crafting good training plans?  Share the specific things you have learned about building a training plan for a specific race or distance, or be more broad and share ideas of how you build/manage your training plan(s) throughout the year.

Next weeks theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans. 

 

Click here for a complete list of great posts on training plan do's and don'ts. 

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... Training Plans Do's and Don'ts.   Happy New Year!  I know many of you are already working on your training plans for 2009.  What tips and tricks have you learned about crafting good training plans?  Share the specific things you have learned about building a training plan for a specific race or distance, or be more broad and share ideas of how you build/manage your training plan(s) throughout the year.

Next weeks theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans. 

 

Click here for a complete list of great posts on training plan do's and don'ts. 

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... Training Plans Do's and Don'ts.   Happy New Year!  I know many of you are already working on your training plans for 2009.  What tips and tricks have you learned about crafting good training plans?  Share the specific things you have learned about building a training plan for a specific race or distance, or be more broad and share ideas of how you build/manage your training plan(s) throughout the year.

Next weeks theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans. 

 

Click here for a complete list of great posts on training plan do's and don'ts. 

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... Training Plans Do's and Don'ts.   Happy New Year!  I know many of you are already working on your training plans for 2009.  What tips and tricks have you learned about crafting good training plans?  Share the specific things you have learned about building a training plan for a specific race or distance, or be more broad and share ideas of how you build/manage your training plan(s) throughout the year.

Next weeks theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans. 

 

Click here for a complete list of great posts on training plan do's and don'ts. 

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... Training Plans Do's and Don'ts.   Happy New Year!  I know many of you are already working on your training plans for 2009.  What tips and tricks have you learned about crafting good training plans?  Share the specific things you have learned about building a training plan for a specific race or distance, or be more broad and share ideas of how you build/manage your training plan(s) throughout the year.

Next weeks theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans. 

 

Click here for a complete list of great posts on training plan do's and don'ts. 

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... Training Plans Do's and Don'ts.   Happy New Year!  I know many of you are already working on your training plans for 2009.  What tips and tricks have you learned about crafting good training plans?  Share the specific things you have learned about building a training plan for a specific race or distance, or be more broad and share ideas of how you build/manage your training plan(s) throughout the year.

Next weeks theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans. 

 

Click here for a complete list of great posts on training plan do's and don'ts. 

Welcome to Take It and Run Thursday! 

It's our way to bring together the knowledge of all of us ordinary runners.  It's the virtual equivalent to putting our virtual heads together.  Even though many of us aren't elite athletes, coaches or authors, it doesn't mean that we haven't earned a well deserved PhD in running.   Whether you are starting out, have 50 years of running under your belt or somewhere in between - all of us have lessons learned that make us wiser and better runners.  

Today's theme is .... Training Plans Do's and Don'ts.   Happy New Year!  I know many of you are already working on your training plans for 2009.  What tips and tricks have you learned about crafting good training plans?  Share the specific things you have learned about building a training plan for a specific race or distance, or be more broad and share ideas of how you build/manage your training plan(s) throughout the year.

Next weeks theme is .... 5K and 10Ks.   As you are building your training plans for 2009, tell us your plans for training and racing in 5K's and 10K's.  Share your favorite off the shelf or home grown training plans.  Tell us about your favorite 5K and 10K races, where they are and why you do them.  Give us some tips onhow you work 5K and 10K's into your half marathon and marathon training plans. 

 

Click here for a complete list of great posts on training plan do's and don'ts. 

Runners LoungeCast - Episode 7 - Choosing the Right Race

After an exceptionally long December break, the LoungeCast hits 2009 running with a very relevant topic:  Choosing the right race.  What do you look for before you lace them up and put on the bib?  A great group of seasoned veterans share the insight and advice.

Laura from Absolut(ly) Fit
Laura from Frayed Laces
Niki from Cross Country Squared
Perry from Just Your Average Joggler
Tom and Amy from Runners Lounge

To read reviews about marathons around the world, check out MarathonGuide.com

Download Episode5race

Or Download it directly from iTunes.

The collection of past Runners' Loungecasts can be found in the Lounge in the Podcast section.