Training for Middlesbrough Half Marathon – the first one!

*Please note that this post is my experiences training for half marathons as a novice, none of this is to be taken as medical or fitness/exercise advice. Always consult with a professional trainer or your GP before embarking on a new fitness regime.*

Myself and my good friend Katrina are entering Middlesbrough’s 1st Half Marathon, set to take place on the 3rd of March, 2024! Embarking on a half marathon requires dedication, perseverance, and a well-structured training plan. Whether you are a seasoned runner or taking on the challenge of long-distance running for the first time, success lies in proper preparation. I really enjoyed my first experience of Middlesbrough 10km race – this was due to following a good training plan and the weather being optimal for the day.

Running – My ‘why’.

Physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing.

I run because I find it not only great for physical health, it is also great for my mental and emotional wellbeing too. It is also great for social wellbeing. I do not drink alcohol anymore, due to this life can be a bit lonely as a lot of people socialise through going on nights out or to the pub. However, since I started running I have made new friendships, see one of my good friends weekly for a run and catch up and really enjoy socialising in this way. There is no hangover and its good for you! Runners high is a thing that many people around the world enjoy after a run.

I also find running great for clearing the cobwebs from my mind and helping me feel peaceful and find clarity. I run AMALAwellness, which can be a busy and hectic job at times. Going running really helps to focus my mind and do what I need to do in a more relaxed way. Running can be a great stress and anxiety buster!

Getting back to our true nature.

We often spend a lot of time ‘busy’. Feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious. Running, especially in woodland, or along the beach and in nature, can help us find that peace, clarity and help us enter into a calm state. If I run out in nature, during and after, I feel much more peaceful and ready to take on the day. I love experiencing running in the different seasons, spotting Robins and socializing with local dogs.

I often take my Whippet training with me. Seeing her having so much fun and in her element because she found a stick, always reminds me to be more present and in the moment. We can learn a lot from our canine companions about happiness!

It is important to find your ‘why’.
It will help to motivate you when the going gets tough.

Middlesbrough 21km – local support.

More Than A Run

Although I enjoyed the Great North Run, the experience due to bad weather conditions meant I struggled after the race.

I ran the Great North Run for the first time whilst recovering from iron-deficiency Anaemia. Although I prepared, the conditions of the run in 2023 meant it was a hard task for all involved.

(Intense humidity and sun at beginning and during 90% of the race, last 10% torrential thunderstorm and heavy rain, plus the sheer number of participants and waiting times for toilets).

Due to this and the traffic returning home, I did not really get the best experience of what I picture a half marathon experience to be. The first half was really fun, but the ending meant that it was a total washout. The rain was so heavy and traffic so congested, there was no time to decompress at the end.

This is why I have decided to take on Middlesbrough’s first half marathon, starting training from the beginning. I am hoping, that with a half marathon without 55,000 people trying to get home in torrential rain at the same time, it will be a better experience. Especially being on doorstep of home.

Training for The Middlesbrough Half Marathon as a novice.

When training for a half marathon as a novice, there are several key things I know I need to keep in mind:

1. A 12 week training plan.

When beginning running, to avoid injury and burn-out, I have found it advantageous to gently build up mileage. There are plenty of brilliant apps, running groups and training plans accessible to help you with this. Ideally, 12 weeks consistent training is needed to be successful. I look for plans that suit my current fitness level. Some people say to do a 12 week 10km race training plan, before embarking on a half marathon training plan.

2. Be dedicated to being consistent with training.

Consistency is important as your stamina will improve. It also helps you to avoid injuries. It is important to add some stretching routines core strength and strength building routines in too. I have found it really beneficial to include all of these things in my training.

3. Include rest days, active recoveries and some cross-training too.

Rest days are crucial to avoid injury. Muscles, ligaments and tendons need time to rest and recover. Cross training such as cycling and swimming can be beneficial to help train the muscles in different ways and improve stamina. Active recoveries, such as running slowly or walking can help support too. I have found researching these different things and incorporating them into training to be really beneficial.

4. Nutrition and hydration

To look after our body, not only do we need to exercise, but we need healthy nutritious food and to be hydrated too. If we are not drinking enough water, or replenishing our bodies with protein, carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables, we are going to feel miserable training. Researching dietary requirements for training for a half marathon has really helped and supported me through training. I take daily iron supplements to support me, as I often have a battle with iron-deficiency anaemia.

4. The right kit, fit for purpose

Although it was a pricey investment, I have never once regretted buying a proper pair of running shoes. The newer running shoes have really cushioned soles which help with softening impact when running on hard surfaces. If you go to a proper running shoe shop, they can look at your gait (walking stance) and fit you up with correct trainers.

I also never regretted getting proper running jackets for when out in the rain, also running socks! (I have had my Achilles heels rub before, from not wearing running socks and it is not a pleasant experience).

See you at the finish line! Have fun and enjoy!

If you are running, the best of luck! I am really excited to participate in this half marathon. Especially the coffee after the finish line!

Remember to always seek advice from qualified trainers before embarking on a new fitness journey. It can greatly benefit your experience and performance.

Good Luck!

---

Aimee is Managing Director of AMALAwellness and also a Gentle Yoga teacher, who teaches accessible Chair Yoga and Exercise across Teesside.