Sometimes you just have to say yes. When you get an email from Nike, that is one of those times. To be honest, had it been a full marathon it doesn’t matter who it was from, I’d say no. But a half marathon, a half marathon seems doable. Painful, but doable. Nike is having their first Women’s Half Marathon in DC and they’ve asked a few of us DC ladies if they could sponsor us to run it. I mean, I hate running, I’m a yoga girl — but I couldn’t say no to Nike!
I’ve been at least somewhat athletic most of my life. I always played multiple sports growing up, and have usually been active doing yoga, Crossfit or just moving around in general. Working from home you have to make exercise a priority and schedule it or it won’t happen. I did a short stint of track when I was in middle school, running the 200, 400, 800, and the 4×400. Notice how all of those are shorter than 13.1 miles…
Am I totally freaked out? Yes.
Do I enjoy running? Not at all.
Is this going to suck and I’ll ask myself at some point on every training run why the hell I agreed to do this? I’m assuming so.
Do I turn 30 this year and want to look killer in a bathing suit? Yes.
Does that give me motivation to run this thing? Yes.
So is it more about looking great in a bathing suit than challenging yourself to run a half marathon when you hate running? I’d say the two are equal.
Just being totally honest with you here. I’ll keep you updated as to how the training is going. I felt like if I said it publicly then I’d really look stupid if I start training and back out so more pressure for me. I mean, if I get hurt or something I can’t really control that, but let’s hope that doesn’t happen.
You can follow along with me on my half marathon journey on my twitter, instagram, and Vine (search MegBiram) and I’m going to hashtag with #NikeMeg
I’m heading out right now for my first training run. 1 mile. How bad can that be? (I have a semi-painful face right now.)
Like Bill Bowerman, co-founder of Nike says, “If you have a body, you are an athlete.”
Let’s go with that.
At least I’ll look good decked out in Nike gear while running, right?
I could use your help. Are you a runner? Have you ever ran a half marathon? What are your favorite running products? How did you do it? Any words of advice??? I can use them all!
Congrats! That’s an awesome opportunity to work with a great company. So many people that I know didn’t get into that race and were a little bummed. It should be a lot of fun. I love running and racing, and I can tell you that the accomplishment that you feel when you cross that finish line is worth every drop of sweat and minute of time you put into your training. The training is the journey, and the 13.1 miles that you run along that course will be the best victory lap you’ll ever feel. Be excited! Half marathons are a lot of fun, and Nike knows how to do them right.
Thank you so much for the encouragement! I am definitely grateful for the opportunity, and am hoping to share an honest journey with everyone!
Since the race is at the end of April, I think you definitely have enough time to train! Is there a Couch to Half Marathon running group in DC that you can train with? It really really helps to make running A) more fun and B) doable without getting injured.
If you haven’t done 1 mile in awhile, try starting at walking 1/4 mile, running 1/4, etc. until you get to 1 mile. Then build up to walking 1/2 mile, running 1/2 mile. Even if it feels like you already have this stuff down, it’ll ease you into running painlessly if you’ve only been doing yoga for awhile.
Favorite running products:
) They have some ridiculously cute ones that I almost bought, but they weren’t as comfy as my Brooks.
1. The new Nike Rival Shorts. They are similar to a Lululemon style that I already love. You might really like the wide waistband — it’s kind of yoga pants-like. And they have a back zip pocket, perfect for a house or car key + drivers license/credit card.
2. Brooks shoes. They are my favorite running shoe brand ever. But if you’ve never been fitted for running shoes, definitely do so. And I guess pick out some Nikes since they’re sponsoring you
3. Flashing lights. If you run at dawn/dusk/in the dark, definitely get some a flashing armband, maybe a reflective vest, and if you can, a clip-on LED light (you can clip it to a hat) in case the roads are dark.
I ran a mile yesterday, but as I get up in miles, there may be periods of walking… we’ll see. Thanks for the tips! I actually have Brooks running shoes and really like them so far. I do think I’ll have some Nike ones soon though.
I definitely don’t want to be running at night and will do anything to avoid it. Good idea about the light though.
Thanks!
That’s so awesome, good for you! I can’t say enough about running in rock creek park. Having a car-free and scenic place to run makes it so much better, and really got me back into it so I could do a 10K this past Thanksgiving. The mall is also great– nothing like being surrounded by symbols of greatness to kick you into high gear!
I’m really excited to explore DC while running. I feel like we are so lucky to have such amazing areas to run by!
I have been following your blog for a few years now but wanted to finally take the opportunity to comment and say how excited I am about you upcoming 13.1-mile adventure. Congrats on the Nike sponsorship and good luck with your training! See you out there on the trails and roads!
I’m sure you’ll be lapping me! Ha!
YAY!!! Half-marathons are so fun! My main recommendation would be to join a group or rope your girlfriends into training with you. Those long mile days are WAY more fun with people to chat with. Also, I agree with Phoebe, go get fit for your running shoes (obviously, they need to be Nike) but you’ll want to know if your a neutral foot or over-pronate.
Can’t wait to read about your progress. THIS WILL BE FUN!!!
Katie
I’m not sure about fun, but it will be an adventure
Maybe painfully fun?
Girl, you can do this!!! My best advice : Put together some killer playlists. And be sure to train outside vs just on a treadmill. Shiz be waaaaaay harder on real terrain. So excited! That is going to be a huge accomplishment!!
Yes yes playlists!!! I need help in that area? Do you know where I can find some?
I have never even thought about a half-marathon, let alone run one. But cute workout gear is the first step to any athletic accomplishment, and it looks like you have that part covered. Good luck! I’m sure you’ll crush it.
I like how you think!
This is wonderful! Good for you as it will be an amazing goal to reach. I have done many running races and triathlons and have coached people along the way & it is an amazing confidence booster to cross that line. Here is a link to a half marathon training plan that might help you but any questions you have I am happy to help… http://sweatstyle.blogspot.com/2012/03/beginner-half-marathon-training.html
YOU CAN DO IT!
A must have is Trigger Point Technologies – The Grid for self massage along the way.
And I love Balega socks to prevent blisters.
Wishing you the best of luck on an amazing adventure to come!
Crazy enough, we actually have that Trigger Point book! Thanks for the sock recommendation, and thank you for the link! I will definitely be referencing it!
I did my 1st 1/2 marathon last year as my I’m turning 30 present to myself. I like running but I did an all running training schedule from runner’sworld.com and after the race I was so burnt out on running I didn’t run for 6 months. So, I would definitely recommend a training schedule that has cross training in it. Plyometrics and HIIT (high intensity interval training) are great ways to up your cardiovascular endurance which will help in distance running. Good luck and what an awesome opportunity!
Hey Morgan!
so that’s my other outlet!
I think I’ll definitely continue regularly doing yoga, and we have an indoor rowing machine in our condo
I can’t wait to watch your progress. I have let my running fall back a little bit and I really need to pick it back up. It SUCKS at first, but once you’re up to running 4 miles without stopping you feel AMAZING!
I am a newbie to running myself. I ran my first half in Las Vegas December 2, the day before I turned 23. So like you, hitting an age was one of the reasons I wanted to finally do one. I HATED running before I started training. I still hate it sometimes but continue to train for halfs simply to keep myself in shape. Best way to work up to it is do 3 short runs during the week, 3-5 miles. Then do a long run on the weekends. Start where ever you are comfortable, if you did 1 mile today a good long run would be 3 this weekend. Then just work your way up there. For example I started my long runs at 6. I ran 6 for 2 weekends, 7 for 2 weekends, 8 for one, 9 for two weekends, 10 for one, 11 for one. Take 5-7 days completely off of running before your half. Hydrate really well, eat enough protein and of course drink water, and take in protein during the race. Goo’s are your go to in race snack. MOST IMPORTANT ADVICE: invest in GOOD running shoes. I love my Asics but as Nike is your sponsor I am sure you will want to rep them. Go to a running store and have shoes fitted for your feet. It truly will make a world of difference! Good luck and remember how amazing you will feel after you’ve finished your first half!
Thanks for all the great info!!!
You can totally do this! I ran my first half-marathon many years ago. Though I was an athlete my whole life (basketball, soccer, field hockey, swimming, etc), I HATED running. With a passion. A friend asked me to run a half-marathon with her in 2008 and I said “sure, what the heck.” On my first training run, I couldn’t even run for a straight 2 minutes. It was sad and embarrassing. And my exercise-induced asthma was so bad that first week of training that I had to call the outside of doctor’s hours phone line to get a doctor to send an emergency inhaler prescription to Walgreens ASAP.
And you know what? 3 months later, after a lot of sweat, walking, running, laughing with girlfriends, new running shoes and new running gear – I ran my first half-marathon! The plan was to run-walk (run for 8 minutes, walk for 2 minutes) the whole way. Instead, my friends and I got the energy to run THE ENTIRE 13.1 miles. Adrenaline is an amazing thing. And then, I decided to keep it up. And have since run 10 half-marathons. (And the runner’s high is totally real!)
You can do it! Because if someone like me could, anyone can. Mind over body! Be positive and as odd as it sounds, enjoy the experience. One day, you will “only” have to run 6 miles on your long run training day and it will be so weird to say “I only have to run 6 miles today.”
My husband is big on mind over body, so I’m definitely going to keep that in mind. Love all of your advice & story!
Oh my gosh. I would be scared and motivated. I too despise running (despite being in the health field). But if not when asked by Nike? Then when?!
Then never! Ha!
You absolutely can do this and have plenty of time to train! Great goal to accomplish before 30.
I’ve signed up and will be out there as well for this race.. too fun!
I’ve been a runner since high school and competed in college so I have plenty of tips!
Obviously cute workout gear is a huge motivator, a fun playlist is essential, and – echoing Phoebe as well – most importantly make sure to get fitted for the right pair of shoes for your feet. You don’t want to go out and nab a pair just based on cute factor (although so very tempting). Running shoes are crafted toward different types of runners and can either help or hurt you, depending on what you get.
current essentials/favorites:
:: shoes: I love the Nike Frees but again, they’re not for everyone.
:: “The Stick”. Trust me, every good runner is obsessed with this. Best tool for sore muscles post-workout.
:: socks: Nike makes my favorites – the “dri-Fit elite cushion no show” socks
:: pepper spray for runs in the dark
:: an extra hair band or bobby pin: maybe it’s just me but I always keep an extra on my wrist in case the one in the hair busts or is too loose
:: a bandaid or piece of moleskin for the unexpected rubbing/blister
(all of these little bits can be packed into the small pocket that comes sewn into most running gear -pants/shorts/jackets)
Best of luck!!
Is “the stick” thing the foam roller? We have one of those… not my favorite thing in the world. My husband uses it all the time.
Awesome tips, thanks!
Oooh~ I kinda wanna join you! I’ve been needing something to get my butt back in shape anyway
Oh darn! I think the registration is already over
maybe if there is a next time…
Meg! I’m so proud of you! You ARE a runner. Truly, three years ago, I thought my max was 3 miles… but you’d be so surprised at what your body is capable of doing… loving, even (yup, I said it!). At this point, I’ve done completed two half marathons and two full marathons. I’ve got three essentials: 1. A great playlist (for me it’s anything rap & r&b… it’s the gangster in me), 2. Lululemon running tights… they compress the jiggle (you don’t have to worry a bit about that) and they’re super flattering, and 3. The Nike+ running app on my iPhone.
I so firmly believe that running brings good things into my life… I met one of my favorite bloggers while jogging in Portland and she convinced me to start a blog. I even met my husband at a 10k road race! Not even joking. Our first date was a run. I can’t wait to see what running brings into your life and I’m excited to follow you on your journey. GO MEG!
Awww thanks so much! I need to download that Nike+ app and definitely get on top of my playlist situation! Do you have any public playlists anywhere?
I challenged myself to run the New York Marathon for my 40th birthday. Like you, I am athletic but not a runner. Long story short, I did it and you can too. My best advice is to train with a group- it makes you both accountable and less alone in your suffering! I liked training better than the actual race. I felt a new sense of accomplishment each week. Good luck!
WOW that is awesome! I’m so much of a loner in these things, it will take a lot for me to run with a group!
Like you, I’m turning 30 this year, and while I’m not training for a 1/2 Marathon (more like a 5K) I have to agree with your decision to do this. I mean…. it’s Nike! How can you say any thing other than “well why not. I’ll do my best, and try not to pass out wearing your logo.” In other words, you can do anything if you have the right shoes…and there are some really cute Nike’s. Can’t wait to follow your adventure!
LOL! Yes I hope there is no passing out!
congratulations! i wish an email from nike had been the way i got talked into doing a half… instead it was my colleague who was running in a race near my apartment and she bought me drinks and conned me into agreeing!
i am also a yoga aficionado, and i hate distance running. that aside, i was able to do the training in about 6.5 weeks and finish, even though my ipod died at mile 5 just as the elite african runners passed me with 5 miles left to go in the race!
my advice:
- get good shoes!
- STRETCH (yoga + running = happy muscles)
- have a few good running mixes, and find your “power song”
- make a few regular routes so you can mix it up but still feel familiar about how much farther you have to go.
- slow and steady wins the race (seriously. i have a tendency to want to hurry up and finish, but 13.1 requires some discipline!)
GOOD LUCK! and you’re right – you’ll look amazing in a bathing suit
This is so sad, but I thought I was running fast yesterday when I did one mile…. it was not fast…
Thanks for all of the great advice!
Hi there!
First time reading your blog… love it!
Good luck training for and running your first (half) marathon! Better you than me- I would need a truckload more motivation… lol. I know friends have taken some training boot-camps that have helped.
Keep us posted!
I’d wear that sportswear and sit on my butt. It looks so comfy! And you’ll do great on your run. I’ve seen people run marathons and they showed no outward traits of being a “runner.”
Best,
Jane
YOU CAN DO THIS!!!
Congrats Meg! You’re going to be GREAT! And you’ll have the support of all of us DC bloggers!
I did the Chicago hal marathon a few years ago. It’s still one of my biggest accomplishments.
wow – kudos to you for saying yes – i would have definitely said no.
boyfriend tried to get me to run a 5k in december and i trained a little bit for it….died at 1.5 miles everytime and gave up. sad.
not a runner – feel like i never will be. i look forward to your tips & tricks.
Monika
champagne-picnic.com
This is the only way I knew I wouldn’t give up, so here we go! We’ll see! I feel like everyone says once you start doing it and just keep going you’ll be ok, so I’m going to keep that in mind!
When I trained for a half marathon I found that my long runs became something to look forward to instead of dreading them. Sometimes you’ll have a rough long run (maybe 1 in 4 or 5 runs) and it sort of discouraged me. But after a rough run, I’d know the next long run would be so much easier. It’s like I could feel my body conditioning itself to do what I was training it to do. And before I knew it I was running multiple miles and it felt easy! It’s amazing what our bodies can do once we start training them.
You’re going to do great, Meg! I’m excited to follow along in your journey!
Oh my gosh I hope that happens to me!!! xoxo I miss you!
I am a DC gal who not only LOVES this blog, but is also running the Nike Women’s Half ! This will be my first half, but I will run for Tiffany’s and have friends who have run the full Nike Women’s Marathon and had a fantastic experience. Perhaps we should set up a weekend running club? I am super slow, but really just want to FINISH the race. I really think the mental aspect is key–if I just don’t think about the mileage it is going to be very do-able.
I would love to know what feedback you get for the playlists, as I currently just run to a Songza pre-made playlist.
I’m so nervous to run with other people. I feel like I’m slow and I don’t want to slow anyone down yet. Maybe once it’s been a few weeks of training I can brave it! My husband is going to run with me sometimes. That will be a good test.
I’m running that race with Team in Training! It’ll be my second half marathon, but I ran/walked the last one so my goal this time is to run the whole way. I am TOTALLY freaked out, but so far training has been good. Nike’s training plan is the perfect training plan for first-timers! I’m loving all of the Nike Training Club workouts in addition to the running. If you haven’t done so already, buy a foam roller. I recommend The Grid. I try to use it every other day and especially after longer runs. It hurts while I’m doing it, but I always feel amazing after!
Good Luck! Looking forward to following your training!
My husband uses our foam roller all the time, guess I’ll be pulling it out too!
I just found your blog, and it’s great! I have actually been training for a 5K for the past four weeks. I know that’s nothing like a half, but I started out running 60 seconds and walking 60 seconds for 30 minutes at a time. Yesterday, I ran for 20 minutes straight. Like I said, that is nothing compared to what some people can do, but I am REALLY proud of myself, and I never thought I would make it to that point. My best advice to you would be to find a plan, stick to it, walk when you need to, and celebrate the small victories. You’ll feel great about yourself (even if you are tired, sore, and exhausted) when you finish!
Happy running!