Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon and Fun Runs
Training Advice
Do I need a professional training plan?
You are less likely to get injured Professional training plans have been written by someone with years of experience, who can work out the optimum sessions for you depending on your goals. They stop any over-training which can cause injury.
Be motivated - if you have a plan of what you are meant to do, you are more likely to do it. Have goals - if you get a professional plan, you will know what is achievable in a certain number of weeks, and have a plan to match your specific goal of running the Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon.
How long would it take to train to run the Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon?
This depends on your current level of fitness. If you are a total beginner, you could do a 16-week beginner training plan and probably get around a half marathon course in about 2-3 hours. You would have to stick to the professionally structured training plan to be able to achieve that. It would be best to start with a few local races; a 5k, then a 10k race, gradually building-up to achieve your goal of the half marathon. Few would disagree that the longer you train for (in terms of months), and the more gradually you build-up your stamina, the more you will get out of your running.
What exactly is cross-training?
Cross-training is basically activities in addition to running to complement your training. It’s about learning new skills and training in a way that will prepare you best for your running too. Cross-training can also help to reduce the risk of injury. Finding alternative ways to work your system reduces the continual high impact work on your joints, and it can help avoid monotony and boredom by adding a bit of variety. It will also help your body become or remain toned, strong and flexible.
Whatever your training level, cross-training can help you get the results you want. When you set up your cross-training programme, it’s important that you know what you’re training for and that your goal is to include a varied mix of aerobic and anaerobic activity. Combining cardiovascular training, strength training and flexibility training helps to achieve a proper balance, as these three points are the foundations of any effective fitness programme.
