151 Comments
Apr 4, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Thank you for this informative news letter . I started what I call “ jogging “ at age 51 to lose 65lbs. (compared to all the experienced , seasoned runners here. ) I live on a farm and walk /jog all hills and gorgeous farms and fields . I completed 2 - 5k . I will post my time , to encourage someone New to this like myself. My first 5k was 42min and my 2nd at Bird in Hand Lancaster was 39.42 . I was proud of that time . I can hear you professions all laughing . You have to start somewhere . My goal is to do a 1/2 marathon . I started reading the what Mr Terrell recommended ( half walk half run ). I walk /run max 7 miles and usually try 3-5x week .

I met a women named Mrs Betty who I admired I believe late 60’s running 1/2 marathons . She was so supportive encouraging and now I am trying to train for one . Everyone is so non judgmental at the 5k’s and so encouraging like Mrs Betty I met. Complete stranger , yet my children and I felt like her and husband were family . My children ran their first with me . They hate running but will do a 5k once a year with me . You all are amazing !! GOD bless you all and thank you to all the military !!! With GOD ALL things are possible , even me completing a 1/2 under 4hrs is my goal . Thank you 🙏

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Apr 4, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I loved this piece and all the responses. Thank you for this - and hats off to all of you who have continued running against all odds. I have been running for over 20 years but long distance races only from 2014 - I go on and off and sometimes have long breaks after a race (post race lows are very real for me), but overall I feel lucky to be able to run and it’s now become the thing that keeps everything else together.

Also as I mentioned last week - I trained using Terrell’s Wednesday posts as a guide and finished the CUCB 10 miler in 1:47:34 - better than the 2019 time even if not a PR. Thanks T!!

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Running started out as a occupational hazard for me. I was a career active-duty soldier for 30+ years, so a 3-5 mile run most mornings was just another day on the job. I did my first half marathon in 1986 at the age of 37. I was a sporadic runner for the next 20 years, when it fit in between duty requirements. After retirement in 2011, I got serious about sustaining my Army fitness level and built my program around an average of 6 half marathons a year with shorter runs at least monthly.

During my first half marathon of 2020, years of injuries small and large from 30 years as a paratrooper with 6 combat tours caught up with me. That was also about the time the pandemic shut down racing and gyms. I decided that it would be a good time to get repairs done. I now have some new metal bones, re-routed muscles and stitched-up tendons, but I’ve been on the sidelines for a long time. Three weeks ago I was finally cleared to return to normal exercise.

So two weeks ago I ran the Shamrock 8k with no training miles for over a year, and this morning ran the Yorktown Battlefield 5k. I hurt everywhere and, while I still scored age group (M 70+) awards, my times were about 1:30 minutes per mile slower than they were in 2019. I’m now motivated and mustering the courage to get my tin-man body and scarecrow brain back on the yellow brick road to 10k’s this summer and 1 or 2 half marathons in the fall. Next year, 4 half marathons, with maybe a few destination runs like the ones Terrell writes about. Bermuda? Europe? or perhaps the Emerald City?

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Terrell, thanks for keeping this forum running! I enjoy seeing the responses from others as we are all indifferent places in our running journey. I always hope and look for that pearl of information from another reader that may help me get out of a funk. As to your questions….

When did you start running?

I started running track in 1978 in Junior High. I was talked into running by the coach who was my biology teacher at the time. I only ran in school for three years….then in college, I walked on to the CC and track team at University of Colorado-I wasn’t really good but I needed something to help me meet new friends and quite frankly avoid the “freshman 15”. I ran with the team, albeit not well, through my junior year.

How many miles/kilometers do you run every week?

I try and run 15-20 miles a week. Sometimes those miles come from run/walks but thats ok with me. My mileage will increase if I am training for a 1/2…..

What kinds of distances do you enjoy most?

I try and run 5K races up to 1/2 marathons. This includes a couple 5 milers and 10 milers but there is something about a 10K that I just dread…..not sure what it is but that is one race distance I avoid. Here is Denver we have the Colfax Marathon series and I LOVE running the relay with friends! It’s a good way to see parts of Denver, challenge yourself with different lengths and drink beer with friends after a race!

Where do you like to run?

I run mostly in my neighborhood which is all hills.

Any particular challenges you’re having right now?

My challenges have been the same for the past few years. I get running and then suddenly stop and walk, have yet to figure out what is happening but the frustration is certainly real. Routes I used to run 10 years ago seem to be a chore now. I am trying to not be hard on myself but the reality is I am getting older and ITS OK to go slower.

Are you participating in our weekly training plan — if so, how is it going for you? I passed on the training plan this time around.

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Apr 2, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I started running in 2018 with no greater plans than to be able to run a mile, ever. But once I achieved that goal, I wondered, "Is this it?" Last weekend I ran my first half marathon (North Myrtle Beach half, flat course and a lot of fun; it was their inaugural race). I remember running 5 miles once when I was 18, and was never able to do that distance again; but now it's a favorite distance. I vary distances daily and average about 25-34 miles a week. I'm signing up for another half in May, but will run a duathlon and 10k in April. I want to make half marathons my target distance in general for race goals. This summer I'm working on learning to swim to compete in triathlons next year. And if I ever get the "hang" of monkey bars, I'd like to do some Spartan races in the future. I'm 52 years old, proving that you can teach an old dog new tricks.

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I started running in 1966 because my best friends were running track... stupid reason, right? I couldn't do the 440 and the mile was just too damn long for a first time runner so the only thing left was the half mile. As most experience runners will tell a novice, don't go flat out from the start... I learned that I had a long way to go as i came in LAST PLACE by a long shot...

It though, started me on a long and enjoyable that continues today. Even though I've run full marathons and still need to do Disney... My favorite distance is the half... It's difficult but short enough to enjoy the start to the finish... I love this website and average about 25 to 30 miles a week... Rock on fellow runners!!!!!

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I started running late in life, I have been for about 10 years. I regularly get above 20 miles a week 4 days a week. I do mostly road and rail to trail surface, although I am not unfamiliar with single track runs. I have done a few full marathoners but I really enjoy the half-marathoner distance. I am not currently using the weekly training plan as I am starting a goal to run 12 half-marathons in 12 months. Which is going to be difficult as I am getting used to running with a pinched nerve.

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I'm still running. Have a 5K tomorrow at 10AM. Looks like cold and showers. The management here decided to raise the rent on our townhouse--an astronomical figure like $1000/month more, so I'm looking. . . I'll run in between house hunting when I can. :)

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Hey Terrell! I’m so happy more people are joining! I’m excited to read all the responses.

* When did you start running? When I was 14, we had a hyper dog that my mom always asked me to get out from under her feet so I did…and the fun began :)

* How many miles/kilometers do you run every week? Running 30 to 50 a week now.

* What kinds of distances do you enjoy most? Half marathons. I’m doing the 50 states. I’m at 17 now.

* Where do you like to run? Trails, but I’m having a hard time finding pretty trails here in Kansas with any elevation. I miss my Texas state parks.

* Any particular challenges you’re having right now? Not any more :)

* Are you participating in our weekly training plan — if so, how is it going for you? Im doing a “program” called 75Hard now and it’s really got me motivated. Im doing much better with running, whereas before I was still pouting about the cold weather. Now there are zero excuses.

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Apr 1, 2022·edited Apr 2, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Hi Terrel,

First Thank You for this Great Newsletter and Community.

Here are the answers to your questions.

When did you start running?

I started Running in 1984 my freshman year in High School.

I knew it was going to be tough in HS. I didn't have any friends. I wanted to belong to some group.

I gave Cross County and Track a try and have been Running ever since.

I have "Ran" Races from 1 mile to 100 miles.

Going on 38 years of consistently Running. Some years more than others.

I do have a going on 4 years workout streak but it's not just running.

It includes Weights and Cycling.

I am now focusing on Half Marathons, 5 km, 2 Mile and 1 Mile Races.

How many miles/kilometers do you run every week?

I don't go by distance only time. Evens the playing field with my fast Running Buddy.

There's no waiting around for me in the cold to finish.

Weekly time various on what I am training for.

What kinds of distances do you enjoy most?

Long Distance because I get to go slower!

Long Distance now is Half Marathons it used to be Ultra's

Where do you like to run?

On the Road in the Mountains Down Hill!

Any particular challenges you’re having right now?

https://www.epmarathon.org/

https://vacationraces.com/half-marathons/rocky-mountain/

Are you participating in our weekly training plan — if so, how is it going for you?

I use your training plan as a guideline.

I have Downhill Workout Days also Uphill Workout Days.

I have Tempo Runs and All out Sprints Days.

I have Endurance days to get time on my feet to practice fueling. Those days are by distance.

Final Thoughts

Not a Very Fast Runner but happy to still be on the roads/trails at 53 years young.

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Hi Terrell, thanks for the newsletter and community. This is a great place. I've been running for most of my life, starting at the Central Park reservoir with my Dad when I was 10. That was 45 years ago and I'm running every day now. Am actually in the midst of a daily running streak that began last year on Global Running Day which was June 2, so I think I'm nearing 300 days. Over the course of my years as a runner, I've completed three marathons, about 20 half marathons, and lots of other races. Running is the best, especially being with other runners. Next big race is the Mount Desert Island Half Marathon in October. Would love to join a virtual running plan with this group!

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Started running 8 years ago with 5k and 10k's. Moved on to 1/2 marathons with a 1:50 time. I like running on gravel and paved running/bike trails. Sometimes on sidewalks when I have too. I usually run 9 to 12 miles for a weekly total of 20 to 30. My pace is currently 9 to 9.5. I working to get my pace back to pre-covid at 8 to 8.5 pace. I want to get my long runs up to 25 to 30 miles. At the age of 64 in 2 months I need to hit the gym more. I do cross training of swimming 2 miles and riding my bike 20 to 40 miles. The hardest thing is finding a running or bike partner. Most are either a lot faster or a lot slower. So I just go by myself, my speed and pace. Two years ago I was keeping up with the younger guys. If I get my speed back up then I will have run partner's again.

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Not training for much except trying to keep fit for the last few months. I average between 18-25 miles per week plus 10-15 miles on my Elliptigo once a week or so. My recent problem is trying to find new running routes. I don't mind neighborhoods, but try to find as much as possible places with long streets with no traffic signals. I live in L. A. County in the city of Monterey Park, approximately 8 miles east of downtown L.A. I don't mind running on well-defined not super steep trails. Anyone who lives in the area and has some suggestions, I would welcome recs.

PS: I used to run the 2 super close bike trails Rio Hondo and San Gabriel River, but, unfortunately, lately, there has been some violent crimes reported there, and even on my Elliptiogo, I have had a few sketchy moments.

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I started running (on and off) in my twenties. I took several years off in my early / mid 40s when I got the crossfit bug. During the pandemic I started running more regularly, 10-20 miles a week. I've run a marathon and several halfs. I am not nearly 50 and while I love running I am feeling very out of touch with motivation...I either have it or decidedly don't have it! I was enjoying half training recently until I got to longer runs...now that I run so slowly they take FOREVER. I suppose I should work on speed...but oddly my most enjoyable runs are when I let myself cruise. That's a long way of saying right now I am not sure what my running purpose is...shrug!

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I started running about ten years ago. I’m 44 now. Have done about 8(?) half marathons including NYC a couple weeks ago. COVID knocked me out for the whole month of January and I feel like it has made me appreciate running more and just go out and enjoy it without worrying about time or speed. Hence this last Half was far from a PB but was a lovely time.

That said, I wanted to start doing some speed workouts just for a change of pace and to keep things interesting so I’m doing a garmin 10k plan even though I’m not registered for anything right now.

I really enjoy listening to books or podcasts about running while running. Very meta or something. I enjoyed Born to Run, Running with the Buffaloes, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running. What are others favorite running books?

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I started running in high school for my cross-country team. Adult life took over. Ten years ago, I started running again and had 6 marathons, 3 1/2 marathons under my belt. I joined a running group this year to get me motivated. So far, I finished a 10-miler last month and 1/2 marathon in Kailua, HI this past weekend. The only drawback living in Hawaii is you have to saved $$$ if you really wanted to join other races in the mainland. My goal is to run vacation races in Patagonia and Iceland. I do 15-20 miles a week. Happy running.

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And forgot to say- YOU can do it Kate! You will move mountains and have beautiful experiences.

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Currently training for my first Ultra. I've raced 10 marathons and plenty of half marathons so want to challenge myself further. I love running the trails. Glad to meet you all and Happy Running!

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I began running on a consistent basis in 2006. When I began I went all in, 5 times a week. Now, years later, and having worked through some injuries, I average three runs a week. I try to do one 5 to 6 miler a week, and the other times I set at time limit for my run as a pre-workout warmup. I have enjoyed running more in the last two years than I ever have before. I have found a rhythm that works for me. One book that I felt was beneficial was Chi Running. I enjoy running because my mind is free to focus on other things or to just take in the beauty of my surroundings. I average 12-20 miles a week. I’ve ran in quite a few half marathons, which is my favorite long distance race. I tried one triathlon last summer and am gearing up for another. Running is something I want to be able to enjoy for years to come, so I try to stay aware of my body and avoid injury.

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I might add the Outer Banks one to my November list. I’d love to be able to do a half now but don’t feel ready. Thank you!!!!

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I've been running on and off for about 30 years. Did marathon training in my 30's (I'm 55) and was sidelined for a decade with a brain tumor. While I inched my way back to health, including sobriety, I started working out and then got a coach 5 years ago to start building speed. I'm playing around with the concept of quantum physics and pushing through my own limited beliefs to see how fast I can get. Half's are my current race of choice. I run 30-40 miles a week with speed work and long runs in there. I got COVID and a few other bacterial infections from January-through most of March. It is has been humbling just allowing the body to heal. Gearing up for an end of April half and just grateful to be at a live race in over 2.5 years! Thanks Terrell!!

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I will be running my first half marathon at the age of 52 in May and have never run before. I started training in February and the most I have run so far is 6.1 miles, the mileage keeps increasing from here! I am very nervous about being capable of running such long distances but I am hopeful that I can rise to the occasion.

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Terrell- you do a beautiful job of asking the questions your viewers need.

Started running age 7.

Age 51

Stopped running at 3 points in my life

1) 5 months into 2 pregnancies

2) from age 17-18. I hated running and liked hanging with the non runners in high school

Love running trails, gravel, dirt, pavement, sand, whatever it is- i feel blessed that I can get out and breathe and feel open

I run 4-8 miles a day- 6 days a week. My goal was to run a race in 50 states.

Struggles: Knowing that I am slowing down and my body is changing and coming to terms with that.

This has been encouraging readings everyone else’s struggles, wins and running stories.

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I have had an on/off relationship with running since 2011, however I'm back at it! I am also an avid surfer and I find that distance running compliments my goals in surfing beautifully. I'm currently training for my first half marathon, and I just completed my first 10K race last weekend since 2013 :). I forgot how much I love the race mentality!

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I have been running since 2006 first casually and then more seriously in 2011 after my Dad died. I am running my 5th marathon at the end this month. I never ran a spring marathon only half’s so training in the winter has been interesting. I got my 20 miler in last weekend which was a major hurdle. After that race looking forward to some casual running alone and with my dog. I am most likely running a half in September. Hope everyone has a good weekend!

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I think I started running soon after I started walking:) I've always loved the feeling of running-mental and physical freedom and strength. I ran cross country in high school my senior year (mostly so our team would have enough runners to have our points count at meets), but then didn't run much again until my mid 40s (I'm 56 now) when I wanted to run a local 5K to support a collegue going through cancer treatments. From there, I've run mostly 5Ks and 10Ks and one 10 mile race. I love the big crowds! When my brother's wife passed away 4 years ago, I walked a half marathon with him. It took us 3 hr. and 40 min. Since then I've thought about dong another 1/2, but never officially signed up. Now that races are back in person, I signed up for a 1/2 marathon happening on June 3rd. I signed up in December, and since then, I've had 3 bad chest colds that have lasted 7-10 days (1 turned into pneumonia). I have an A goal to finish in 2 hr. and 40 min, but these colds have kept my milage down to about 5-8 miles/week. I love to run in the country on gravel roads or along rivers. I am thankful for my treadmill right now as it's icy near my house. Once the ice goes away, I'm outside as much as possible. Thank you for continual support with good information and encouragement!

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I have been running on and off for about 30 years. I'm 52 now. My next half-marathon is this Sunday - the London Landmarks. I'm following the plan of the charity (Parkinson's UK) that I'm running for, which is actually the first time I've followed a training plan. For my other HMs, I've just done my usual schedule of 20-25 miles a week for a few weeks and turned up on the day, so I'll be interested to see what impact on my time running to a plan has. I also do Parkrun every Saturday, which is a free timed 5k that started in a London park in 2004, though I haven't been doing that long, and has now become an event that takes place all over the world each week. It's a great community.

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I started running after I had my son, about 22 years ago. I run about 27-30 miles a week. I enjoy running half marathons for races. (I actually have one tomorrow in Lake Havasu, AZ.) I love to run on quiet streets & in/near beautiful places, such as national or state parks. No major challenges, just trying to get enough sleep. I’m not participating in the group training plan. (I follow another one.) I’m proud of everyone though! It’s motivating to hear how you guys are doing! 😁

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Good morning Terrell. My running, so far, has been EXCELLENT.

As you know, I had to "survive" an injury - for about 3 months of injured running as well 1 month of no running. The weather in SW Florida is getting a little hotter but the evenings have been pleasant to run in, once we get past sundown! My runs are getting "mechanical" right now, hitting a slight training plateau but I expect it from being off so working thru it.

To reiterate, right now, I'm 56 and a former competitive college athlete. I started running for health reasons [being prepared to help with my wife, who is disabled, and I was in less than good health] close to 5 years ago [Mem'l day weekend will be the 5 year mark];

right now I'm running between 24-30 miles/week [3-4 runs, 3 of 8-10 miles every other day, 1 shorter, maybe 4-5 miles, on the "off" weekend day [usually Saturdays]. I do enjoy the longer distances, and race in 1/2 marathons, mixing in the occasional 10k. I plan to do a 15k this year as one of my race events as well. I find that the distances allow me to really both get to a calm state as well allow me enough time to clear my head from my days [I'm a HS teacher].

I run outdoors and on the street [both concrete and black top, though I do like the black top better, seems softer] and as close the water as I can be. Thankfully, I've been able to overcome the injury challenge so looking forward to, intelligently, get back into the run mode. I haven't been doing the plan with the injury but I did continue to workout in my local gym [planet fitness] which allowed my to maintain, somewhat, my cardio health. I have realized that running is a much different animal though and, while I can do the distance, as I mentioned above it's become a little mechanical right now - this too shall pass though!

I'm planning on running a 10k even next weekend, Apr 9, in Naples, Florida and then another 10k on Memorial Day Monday. I've got my first half set, tentatively, for July 9 in NYC [Firecracker Half in the Rockaways] then will start to think about my fall running plans [have "things" in mind...]

Terrell, for listening to our goods, and bads, this forum definitely provided me a much needed avenue when I was injured so I thank you for it.

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My relationship with running is still evolving quite a bit. Have run competitively for 13 years, but the last year has been rocky: taking a long break from running for eating disorder recovery, working through multiple injuries, trying to regain fitness. It's hard not to compare myself as a runner now to my PRs from college and early 20s. But I'm trying to embrace having fun with it, taking training a little less seriously, and feeling appreciative of my body and what it's able to do for me. And new things are on the horizon. I've lived in Boston for the last four years, but likely moving to California for grad school this summer, and I'm feeling excited about running in new places with a new community!

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Thanks Terrell

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Gearing up for BOSTON! Haven’t been able to nail my long runs like I’ve been hoping (thanks, typical Ohio weather), but have been able to hit some consistent mileage for the last couple of months! Getting very excited and looking forward to this wonderful opportunity. Also looking forward to giving my body and mind rest as well as treating myself to yummy food following Patriots Day

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Started running five years ago. Worked hard to finish 4 marathons (including NYC) and countless halfs (the best distance!) Stopped cold turkey in November, a week after Houston Half, when lower leg muscles stopped working in both legs: Guillian-Barre Syndrome. Neurologist slammed it with steroids to prevent further progression, but legs were dead. After weeks of PT, left leg is pretty normal, but right one remains weak and ‘fuzzy’. Still… started a walk/run couch-to-5k program—the same Zombies Run app I used when I first started running—and was thrilled to finish a 4-mile ‘long run’ last weekend. I’m not fast, but I’m moving. Doc thinks the leg will eventually come back, but for now I just have to find happiness running with the body I have today. (Miss this community but haven’t had the heart to read about running when I was unable to do it myself.)

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

Hi there I put on 10 lbs over winter and working hard to run it off again. I run long distances, 40 to 50 miles a week. I enjoy running in neighborhoods and love running outdoors. My new goals, since my body has muscle memory going on along with adaptation (plateauing) I want to incorporate working on my speed, rather than longer slower runs, shorter faster runs. So we will see how this goes and the progress behind it. I wonder what community runs are coming up soon is there somewhere you know where I can look?

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

I have taken running seriously in the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. Then I trained and ran my first half marathon for my 57th birthday in February 2021. I have been running since and participating in several short races ( mostly 5Ks). I was training to run my first marathon last year when the training was interrupted by an emergency surgery.

I've been following your plan since January very well.

My challenging is that I'm leaving to Brazil today for an entire month.

Although I've packed all my running gears, we all know how vacation can change things. I'll just take it easy. 😀

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Apr 1, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson

starting running decades ago when i was in grad scxhool. i was running 25-30 miles a week but now i'm recovering from achilles and i'm hypersensitive about re-injury so only doing about 10 miles a week now. a half marathon is my fav distance, but i've done them all. i love running outside in neighborhoods and on footpaths. i'm getting over my injury and thankful to be running again. i'm not doing the weekly plan but i hope those who are doing it are enjoying it!

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How do I find your training plan?

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Removed (Banned)Apr 2, 2022Liked by Terrell Johnson
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