A couple weeks ago I ran the Rock and Roll Half Marathon. I wanted to do a little race recap sharing my experience and answering some of the questions I was asked repeatedly.
Why run 13.1 miles?
Well, I’ve wanted to run the Rock and Roll marathon since I first heard of it over five years ago. With live music along the route, it just seemed like a really cool experience. However, every year there was always some obstacle in the way. From work and family events to my own wedding, I just never seemed to be able to commit to running the race.
Finally, in the late spring of this year, I was at a stagnant point in my workout routine (you can read more about that here) and needed some new challenge and goals. I’m a HUGE deliver in setting goals as a way to make yourself accomplish things you never dreamed you could. So I started researching marathons and half marathons in my region. When I realized that I was free the same weekend as the Rock and Roll Marathon, I signed up!
What training plan did you use?
I just followed the Hal Higdon novice 2 training plan. I only had 10 weeks to train instead of the 12 listed in the plan so I skipped the weeks with 5k and 10k races listed. I also moved the days of the week around to fit with my schedule but stuck pretty closely to the mileage he recommends.
Will you do it again?
Probably. It’s such a great mental challenge to push your body to run miles upon miles. But I’m not jumping to sign up for another one right now. I’ll probably sign up again next year once I’ve had time to forget how sore I was after this one.
What is your favorite running gear?
I wear mostly Brooks running gear. I love that their gear is so functional and obviously made with runners in mind. For example, their running leggings have a space for your keys/id/phone that is waterproofed so they won’t get all sweaty. Also, all their clothing tags are made to rip out without tearing the seam. The tags actually say on them “tear me out”. I love these running tights, this tank, and I run in these running shoes.
I also used the MapMyRun app to track my mileage while I was training. I don’t have a smartwatch or anything like that so it was a basic app that gave me the info I needed about my miles, pace, and route via my phone.
Overall, I’m glad I ran the Rock and Roll Marathon It was a really great goal that was easier than I thought to accomplish. It really was all in the training plan and following it closely. You’d be amazed what your body can do when you give it a little push.
Let me know if you have any other questions about running or the Rock and Roll Marathon, let me know. I’d be more than happy to answer them!
Until next time,
Ana Luiza
