We are on week 18 of our 20 week half marathon schedule.  Over the last few months, I’ve come to realize that it takes a few things to be able to take on those long runs.

1. The Proper Shoes: Get fitted. I’m a neutral runner.  After getting bad blisters on every toe, I finally found the best pair for me.

2. A Schedule: Luke made our running schedule and I put each day in my iPhone calendar just like I would a meeting.  On the days I don’t run I do pilates and he does weights.  It is good to bring in another form of strength training and stretching to keep your whole body strong. Scroll down for our exact schedule that you can follow too!  Feel free to modify the days so they are convenient for you.

3. The Proper Nutrition: I don’t eat a lot of meat and when we started I was getting really tired and especially sore.  I added in protein smoothies and bars to keep up my calorie intake.  The night before a long run, I usually try to have brown rice with vegetables and edamame to fill me up.

4. Extra Water: I’ve always been a big water drinker, but never like I am now.  It takes a lot of extra hydration throughout the week to be able to keep up.

5. Running Fuel: Before a long run I always have this cold brew coffee and I pack these Organic Energy chews in my running belt to take every few miles.

half zip top // leggings // shoes // head phones // running belt

Images by Mary Summers