Two-a-Days

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I am an experienced marathoner and triathlete and did two workouts four days per week for years. The first thing I will say is that I don't recommend running twice per day, and I generally won't even run two dys in a row.

When training for a half marathon, there is really no need to do two workouts per day. Now, if it is just a matter of wanting to do your run workouts on the same day as dance class, that could work. It depends on how strenuous your dance class is.

Personally, I would do a long run on the weekend, then two maintenance runs during the week. You should have one day per week that is total rest - no running or dance. If you want to do a second workout on your non-running days I would recommend weight lifting or cross training (swim or elliptical).

Statements like this kind of rub me the wrong way. I get that there is not a reason for you to run doubles, and there may not be a reason for OP to do doubles in addition to dance classes, but you have no idea about his/her goals, training volume, current fitness, etc. Until you know those things, you have no basis whatsoever to recommend weekly mileage.

Also, the advice to not even run two days in a row is just silly. If you want to race fast, you need more miles. I have no idea how fast OP runs or what his/her goal for the HM is, but the advice to run one long run and two "maintenance" runs is just silly. Most people who run HMs run at least 4 days per week, and you can be sure that pretty much everyone running HMs faster than 90 minutes or so will be running > 40 miles per week, which works best for many people when they include doubles in the mix.

I'm the PP you quoted. I just disagree with your approach, though I admit that I don't run a 90 minute HM. That is blazing fast, so good for you PP. I don't have the impression that the OP is looking to compete at that level. If she wants to be fit and have long term health and fitness, two workouts per day (and 40 miles per week) are just not necessary. Three runs per week plus dance classes and other cross training is more than sufficient. My advice was aimed at what appears to be a relatively new runner.

Let me guess, you are a competitive runner who is or has dealt with recurrent injuries. In any case, if the goal is to stay fit, finish a half marathon, and remain injury free for the next 20-40 years it is best not to overdo it now. A half marathon (or marathon) is totally doable with three runs and three cross-training sessions per week. There is no need to put in heavy miles unless you have other goals. Personally, I prefer the long term approach. My goal is to be the 80-year old who is still running and keeping up with her grandkids. I don't care if I can't run 7 minute miles. I am fit and strong and injury free.