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Hey Reader, …and just like that, we are halfway done with the challenge and ⅓ done with the None to Run plan if that's the plan you're using. (How’s that for some math?) What you can expect in week 4 on the None to Run plan:Week 4 ramps to a 90-second run. You will still have a gentle 2-minute walk between runs; use these walks to recover. In case you missed itWeek 3's email, in case you missed it. This Week's Recommended Reading:THE IMPORTANCE OF REST DAYS FOR RUNNERS RUNNER'S BODY MAINTENANCE: USE YOUR TOOLS WHY BEGINNERS SHOULD RUN FOR TIME INSTEAD OF DISTANCE Tip from Coach Mark:Make sure you give yourself a few minutes to pick out a motivating playlist or think about your route (I recommend starting with a flat route if possible). Enjoy Week 4! Coach Mark “It doesn’t matter how fast or how far you’re going. If you’re putting on your shoes and going out for a run, you are a runner; you are in that club.” — Kara Goucher, Olympic long-distance runner ❓ QUESTION OF THE WEEKWhen is it advisable and not advisable to run on consecutive days of the week as a newish runner? I've almost progressed to the 10k plan, and sometimes I'd like to do a bit of a slow/easy run before my strength training. Coach Mark: Congrats on your progress! Moving towards the 10K plan shows that you've been consistent....a huge win. If you are currently working through the 5 KM plan, you have certainly built up some mileage in those legs. I am not sure if you have looked at the 10K plan yet, but it already introduces back-to-back running days. You can certainly experiment now with running back-to-back....a slow/easy day before your strength training session sounds totally reasonable. Take note of how you feel, and ease back if you notice any tightness or "niggles" come up. Good luck! THIS WEEK'S GIVEAWAYThis week, we're giving away a $50 USD gift card from Running Warehouse. Simply answer the anonymous question below (you'll then be directed to a page asking for your email address) to enter!
Cheers, Mark P.S. Remember, you can get 20% off clothing and socks, and 10% off nutrition, hats, and clearance running shoes from Running Warehouse. Use code NONETORUN at checkout. NONE TO RUN |
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Hey Reader, Beginners ask me all the time what to eat before a run, and whether carbs are even allowed. So I got a nutritionist to answer it properly! Our new post is written by Juliet O'Sullivan, a certified nutritionist and the founder of Life & Fork Nutrition. Her short version: Carbs are your friend; a small snack like toast with honey or a banana 30 to 60 minutes beforehand is usually all you need, and you can skip gels and sports drinks until your runs pass an hour. It's a practical...
Hey Reader, "How slow should I run?" Going slow is the skill. The honest answer: don't chase a pace on your watch or decide that you need to be totally gassed for a workout to count. Run by effort. Pace doesn't know you slept poorly or that it's 100 degrees and humid out. Most new runners go too fast — slow down more than you think you need to. Easiest check — the talk test: if you can hold a conversation, you're in the right zone. Only getting a few words out? Back off to a walk. Walking...
Hey Reader, A belated Happy Mother's Day to all of the moms out there! 📖 New on the blog The First Month of Running is the Hardest. Here's How to Survive It. The first 30 days of running can be rough — sore muscles, achy joints, a hunger you can't explain, and a serious need for naps. It's normal. Your body is adjusting. Lisa Jhung put together 8 practical strategies to get you through the hardest stretch, from managing DOMS to why varying your routes matters more than you'd think. Read the...