Training for the Marine Corps Marathon kicked off this past Monday! Woo-hoo! Nervous and excited much, Artney? Why yes, I am! I will be Running with the Marines in less than 125 days! Cue “Eye of the Tiger”! I have also been working on Shredding weight over the past month and I will continue to focus on my diet. I am definitely going into this training cycle a lot smarter. I will follow the Dumbo Double Dare training plan as much as I can, while ensuring that I cover the prescribed miles for the marathon.
Marathon Training
I am using Hal Higdon’s Novice 1: 18-week training plan while incorporating the Jeff Galloway Method into my training runs. I will be using the same plan that I used for Walt Disney World Marathon, but I will be adding cross and strength training. You can view it here. I am considering signing up for Training Peaks online training to help me stay focused. I like that it syncs with Garmin Connect too. I’ll know before the week is out whether or not I will use Higdon’s Training Peaks online plan. Long runs will be on a Saturday or Sunday, depending on what’s going on or what races I have planned. I am extremely focused when it comes to getting in the mileage. Respect the distance! My HB is so hilarious…he always says, “I don’t run for time, I run for the shine!” and I feel the same way, but I do have personal goals for this race.
Cross Training/Strength Training
When you know better, you do better. I did not cross train or strength train for my first marathon. Even if it’s your first marathon–I highly recommend that you do. My goal for this marathon is to finish strong with a smile on my face and with gas still left in the tank. I will cross train three days and take full advantage of my rest day(s). Days and times subject to change.
Charity Running
For those who are just following me, I am running for charity for the first time ever! E-X-C-I-T-E-D! I always wanted to run for something greater than myself, so I am thrilled that I will be running as an ambassador for Team Fisher House!
Fisher House Foundation is a wonderful organization that supports our military families when they need it the most—during hospitalization for unexpected injury, disease or illness. Fisher House provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. The homes provide free temporary lodging so military and veterans’ families can be close to their loved ones during a medical crisis.
[Tweet “Help #military families by donating to my Team Fisher House campaign! #MCM40 #givingback”]
I’m not going to stop fundraising until September, so keep the donations coming! These sweet families would love and appreciate your support. You can visit my Team Fisher House for MCM Campaign page here: http://www.teamfisherhouse.org/goto/artwalker.
Have you ever used Training Peaks?
Yeah!!
I have so many people running MCM -i will be a cheerleader for you all!!
Yes! Strength training for sure!! I didn’t my 1st half and have been paying for it since! 1 year later!!
I love Hal Higdon training but will be switching to Jell Galloway due to my knee issues.
I have never used training peaks but I have heard good things about it!
Have a Fab Friday!
Thank you so much, Tamieka! I LOVE your support encouragement! You totally rock, girl! I’m learning and hoping I can help someone else on the journey to not make the same mistake. Have a great weekend!!!
I didn’t know you were doing MCM how exciting. Happy training!
Thank you, Deborah!!! I’m excited! :)
I never have used Training Peaks. I did follow Hal’s novice 2 plan for my first marathon. Not enough cross training for me, I think. I’m looking forward to following your journey!
Thank you, Wendy! I’m excited about this go round. I’ve heard so many share about cross/strength training during marathon training, so I’m looking forward to my progress.
Yippee!! My big training starts next week! I did a Hal Hidgon plan for my first marathon and it was awesome. Looking forward to following your progress.
Thank you, Nicole! Yay for you!!! I can’t wait to follow yours either!
Sounds like you have a solid plan! I can’t wait to hear how your next marathon will turn out. You will do awesome.
Thank you, Nic! I’m looking forward to this being an amazing experience!
Can’t wait to read more about the addition of cross training to your running schedule!
Thank you, Becki! This will definitely be a new addition for me!
All the best with your training! MCM is one of my very favorite marathons. I have never used Training Peaks but i hear good things about it.
Thank you so much, Marcia! I keep hearing wonderful things about it! Can’t wait! :)
Love the feeling of a new training cycle! MCM is one of my favorite marathons. Good luck with training. Keep us updated.
I keep hearing it’s a favorite among many! Thank you, Jill!
So excited for you! This sounds like a great plan!
Thank you, Stephanie!
Good luck with your training! There’s so many great people running MCM this year. I may have to head downtown to cheer all of you on in October!
Thank you, Kathryn!!! That’s cool that you live there, I’d probably do the same! All cheers are welcome! :)