So, while I wait for my shin splints to go away, I am trying to pick my “do-over” plan. I have debated the couch-to-5k program, but I have some concern that I could hold myself to that low of a level. I suppose this is going to be a concern no matter what program I choose. I have proposed to my son that he join me (he likes the idea) – I figure that will help me to stick with the “as-written-on-paper” plan.
Running this is going to be very frustrating.
Alternately I have thought about starting out with 1 mile runs, 5 times a week. Then move it up to 1.5 for the following week. Then 2, then 2.5, then 3.. But I think that this might go beyond the “Start over” idea – and do to much to soon. Especially if I keep raising it by .5 miles.
I thought about this same pattern of running a set mileage and increasing it weekly – but using the 10% rule. Start at 1 mile, then go 1.1. then 1.12 the following week. then 1.23. The big problem I see with this one – is that it almost requires my runs to be on a tread mill. In addition to my hatred of those things, it will not get my bones/ligaments/muscles used to the pounding on pavement – which is one of the primary reasons for “Starting over.”
I am definitely open to any suggestions!
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Next years potential running schedule (goal of at least one race a month)
Jan –
Triple Cities Runners Club – January Freeze 10k Series
Feb –
11th – Cupid’s Chase 5k Run
March –
39th Annual Forks XV (15) K Run
April –
Mudders and More Trail Run and Family Walk (if it is done again next year)
May –
6th – Greater Binghamton Bridge Run Half Marathon
June –
Tortoise and Hare Trail Run – Buttermilk Falls Ithaca
July –
8th – The Utica Boilermaker
August –
Kelly LeBarre 5k
Chris Thater
Sept –
Monstar Marathon and Half Marathon Trail Run (unsure of which I will do)
Oct –
Wine Glass Marathon
Marine Corps Marathon
November –
Some Turkey Trot.
December –
Dec 31 – YMCA Resolution Run
I run, because I am a runner. Having realized that I have always "been a runner" - even when I went years with out running, I am learning how it has integrated itself in all aspects of my life. When I started running in highschool, my perspective on life changed. Funny that I didn't realize how much it had affected it until just recently.
Once and Future Runner 
Don’t take this the wrong way, but I’ve been thinking about your situation and wanted to post my 2 cents. Take it or leave it.
I have watched you post about injury after injury which is “normally” a indication of over-training. I’m wondering if there is a way to have someone assess your running posture? Since you have a background in track, is it possible that you are running too forward and too fast (indicative of track running) for longer endurance runs? The shin splints tends to suggest this as well. If this is the case, I would highly suggest taking a look at Jeff Galloways running plans. He uses splits to keep you from really over doing it, but surprisingly speeds up your overall time. I use his training plans all the time. Check out the Disney World Half Marathon plans – that’s the next half marathon for Keith and I.
I think your head is in the right place with the Couch-to-5k idea, but I can TOTALLY see how that would bore the crap out of you! I know it would to me!!! But, building a good base is what ALL of the running blogs, articles, and fellow runners say.
Oh, I definitely don’t take it wrong – and appreciate the input!
Though, I am going to kind of skip the bulk of your comment in my response – because you have given me today’s blog topic (thanks!) The short answer – is that I do indeed think I over-trained. I ignored some rather key facts from the beginning of my starting up – and continued to do so.
And had I been in my low 20s like I was in my last running incarnation – it would have worked out ok… lol.
I tried to find someone around – running coach wise – and i live in a vacuum. I am going to have to go down to New York city for a gait analysis. I like the idea though – thank you, I definitely think it will be worht the travel. Perhaps there is some gathering in the spring..