running my first half marathon
As you could probably tell I recently ran the Hackney Half, my first ever half marathon race. I have of course ran this distance several times and one of them was fasting during Ramadan but this made it feel like a breeze. Despite how strange this might sound, it was shockingly easy as the mind is so focused on the present moment as opposed to external noise.
My most memorable run ever so far was this one and thanks to the London Tracksmith Community to making this so frickin enjoyable. Seeing more runners joining after the London Marathon Long Runs, made me realise how amazing this community really is as it’s a safe space yet a wonderful platform to connect, explore and run!!
How did I prepare?
As mentioned, Tracksmith saved the day when it came to those longer runs. I fit in 1-2 Long Runs during the peak stage of training (12-3 weeks) leading up. I followed no strict plan as this was my first race post stress fracture on my left foot so I listened to my body when was right to run and which distance/speed.
What about speed runs?
These are my favourite runs. Most people are like ew no thanks I’d rather go for an easy long 10mile but for me I love a speedy 4-6 mile session. Incorporating x1 tempo run, x1 track session, x1 interval session made the week go fast af. I did this for the whole 12 weeks leading up taking off the longer tempo run for the final week and a half (due to tapering).
Hackney Half in your stance:
Hackney half is one of the most enjoyable running events in London, with live music, cheering crowds and so much positive energy it was easy to absolutely smash this half marathon. I said to my Dad, I want to complete a half marathon in this year 2023 alongside my other goals, passing my driving test (which I frickin did too!) and getting A’s in my exams at Uni. If this wasn’t enough I had the goal to complete it in 1 hour 40, which I did! I heard many people say things about water stops and this year there was a good amount including an energy drink stop. Overall, great experience, not sure if I would justify the £40 price tag to the race but the experience was there.
What next?
Asics 10k in less than 2 weeks, groin injury occurred 2 weeks ago. Stopped running for 1 week and a half from today and I have seen improvements! Alhamdullilah. Swimming, cycling, pilates and other running enhancing sports have saved me when it comes to training. It’s easy to give up and not do anything, now rest is non negotiable but how much longer… until you see you fitness levels have disappeared and evaporated. All that hard work. So even if its 30 mins of yoga or a 20 min bike ride, this is 1 step forward to continue to where you were.
Next is Tracksmith’s Twilight 5000m event in London, which I’m so excited yet slightly scared as I don’t know what to really expect but the classic 5k race is short, sweaty and sweet. Big Half in September, and royal parks in October. Now that’s what I call booked in. Sad to not be running Valencia marathon in December as tickets went flying! I suppose lesson learnt, book asap!
And that’s a wrap… stay posted for a debrief of the Asics 10k race on my blog with an analysis of the race.
