How I plan on accomplishing my goal of a Sub-2hr 1/2 marathon

I have now done 6 1/2 marathons {its actually the distance I race most frequently} and it's time to really focus on picking up my pace and accomplishing my ULTIMATE goal of doing a sub 2 hour 1/2 marathon.

So here is how I plan to do it...

1. FOLLOW MY TRAINING PLAN: For those of you who know me, I am a planner, so I always sit down and write out a training calendar for all of my races.  However, I don't always stick to it. This time around I WILL stick to it...and not just run the distances, but focus on maintaining the appropriate paces.   I am using the  Run Less, Run Faster plan {which I have used one other time}...the plan calls for speed work {deffinitely a LOVE/HATE relationship}, pace work, and a long run {only 3 runs a week}.  

2.  FOCUS ON PROPER HYDRATION: I don't know why, but recently I have been struggling with getting enough water...so now I "drink with a purpose."  While training for my marathon, I realized even more that proper hydration {and fueling} was necessary all week long, NOT just during the long runs. I'm a huge fan of drinking NUUN {my favorite flavor is lemon + lime} and coconut water to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes. My new "rule" is that I drink 12oz of water before I have my morning coffee :) 

3.  FOAM ROLL DAILY: I notice come Saturday for my longs runs, my legs are TIGHT {especially my hammies}, as a result of my runs from the week & my Crossfit WODs.  I WILL foam roll and use "The Stick" daily to maximize my runs and prevent injury.

5. ICE BATH: Since training for my first marathon last summer, I have become a huge advocate of the ice bath.  So I plan on taking an ice bath after every long run to help save the legs.

6. CONTINUE READING "THE RUNNER'S DEVOTIONAL" : I have really enjoyed reading this book...it has enhanced both my physical and spiritual training. It has also served as a great tool to stay in touch with and encourage my "long distance running partners" who will be joining me for the Seattle Rock N Roll marathon in June! 

On May 20th I will be doing my {lucky number} 7th 1/2 marathon and plan on taking my PR from 2:07.23 to anything that starts with a 1!!!  {This will be a 20 min PR from my first half marathon in 2009}