This run/walk half marathon program is ideal for a range of athletes: walkers looking to morph into runners; running neophytes testing their wings at a half marathon; mothers who get injured more than six-year-olds whine; and anyone who prefers to mix running and walking when they’re on the road. The weekday runs are based on minutes, not miles, while the weekend long run is calculated in miles.
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BEST FOR: Intermediate to advanced runners PREREQS: At least one previous half-marathon or marathon; consistent running for at least the past 6 months; and the ability to currently complete an 8-mile run. Familiarity with more demanding workouts, such as tempo runs or negative-split runs, is helpful. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 15
13.1: Race, a half marathon training program, develops speed as it builds endurance; as such, it’s best suited for intermediate to advanced runners committed to blazing a path to a personal record. With its varied workouts, there’s little risk of burnout in either your body or mind. A swift half marathon calls for a yin-yang of patience and aggression, both of which you’ll hone over the next 3+ months, setting you up to bust an impressive move on race day.
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BEST FOR: Experienced halfers looking to nail a killer time PREREQS: An established base of consistent, injury-free running for at least the past 6 months; a few half marathons within the past year or so; and the ability to complete an 8-mile run pretty easily. It also helps to be intimate with more demanding workouts, such as tempo runs or hill repeats.
What constitutes being ready to CRUSH? Glad you asked. You can currently run at least eight miles and have been injury-free for at least six months. You also need to be able to devote enough time to running and strength training and foam rolling, so if you’ve got another life event happening— a move, a new job, a relationship status change—this might not be the optimal time to CRUSH.
All that said, if you’re up for it and you follow the plan, you’re going to be thrilled with how strong and accomplished you feel on race day.
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BEST FOR: Runners who want to maximize their training miles PREREQS: Ability to comfortably finish a 4-mile run – your first long run is 5 miles long. That said, because of the Ramp It Up options, this program is suited to a wide range of runners, from 5Kers looking to more than double their mileage to marathoners dialing back on distance and up in intensity. A desire to complete a 10-miler injury free with your body feeling strong. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 15 A 10-mile race is a delightful distance—long enough to cross into double digits, distance-wise, but not one step further—and this is a delightful program to maximize each of your miles. Most of the runs are at an easy pace, making it perfect for a pair or group of women to take on together as you’ll have lots and lots of time on the road (or trail or treadmill) to talk. Working your long runs up to race distance gets you mentally and physically prepped for the demands of the distance, but a range for long runs is given in later weeks to accommodate all levels—and days where your legs haven’t shown up. From the start, this plan integrates start-slow-get-fast pacing strategies so, as you’re standing on the starting line, you know you’re ready to run a smart + strong 10-miler.
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BEST FOR: A wide range of women, from 10Kers looking to step up to new distance to marathoners dialing back on distance. The common thread is a desire to complete a half marathon with your body feeling strong and injury-free—and a smile on your face. PREREQS: The ability to currently finish a 6-mile easy run (Experience in shorter races is helpful but not mandatory.) NUMBER OF WEEKS: 15
The 13.1 Run: This half marathon training plan will comfortably bring you up to half marathon glory over 15 weeks. Most of the runs are at an easy pace, making it perfect for a pair or group of women to take on together as you’ll have lots and lots of time on the road (or trail or adjacent treadmills) to talk.
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BEST FOR: Runners who want to complete multiple events in one weekend. PREREQS: Ability to comfortably finish a 4-mile run – your first long run is 5 miles long. That said, because of the Ramp It Up options, this program is suited to a wide range of runners, from 5Kers looking to more than double their mileage to marathoners dialing back on distance and up in intensity. A desire to complete a 10-miler injury free with your body feeling strong. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 15 Going Loony (covering 19.3 miles in 3 races over 2 days) is a delightful and doable challenge! This program is designed to get you across three finish lines feeling strong, capable and smiling. Some weeks, you’ll run five days a week, with an optional cross-training day, and other weeks, you’ll be lacing up six days. Other staples of the week: a mandatory rest day, and strength circuits. Most of the runs are at an easy pace so you can build up your cardiovascular base and not court injury. The longer runs go up to 11 miles to get you mentally and physically prepped for the demands of the distance, but a range is given in later weeks to accommodate all levels—and days where your legs haven’t shown up. About halfway through the program, we introduce workouts where you’ll run in the morning and do a brisk walk in the evening. The idea behind these workouts is to run, rest, then go again—much like you will on Saturday, when you hit a 10k, then turn around and line up for a 5k quickly thereafter.
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BEST FOR: Beginner or intermediate runners looking to try a new distance beyond the 5K PREREQS: Consistent running or briskly walking for 20-30 minutes 3 days of the week for at least 8 weeks. Injury-free. No previous experience necessary in racing or in running by heart rate. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 15 Heart + Sole: 10K, Level 1 is a 15-week program suitable for all runners wanting to take on 10K—or 6.2 miles. You’ll learn—or continue—to train by heart rate, using your individual zones, calculated by regular testing, to moderate your effort appropriately. You’ll spend plenty of time in the lower zones, building your endurance base; you’ll also spend some time climbing hills, finding different gears with pick-ups and intervals, and practicing your race pace so that you’re ready to thrive on race day.
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BEST FOR: Runners who have been sidelined for 2 months or more and want find their running legs again PREREQS: Approval from your doctor or physical therapist to resume a weight-bearing activity. The ability to walk briskly for 60 minutes without pain. This demonstrates that the site of injury or bone can handle the impact forces of running. (See FAQ below for more details.) NUMBER OF WEEKS: 12-15 If you have had a long-term injury or illness, are postpartum, or simply hit a roadblock in life or motivation, this is an effective, safe, and fun program to find your running groove again. You'll spend 12 to 15 weeks–you go at the pace that works best for your body—incrementally getting stronger and running longer while two expert coaches, Jennifer Harrison and Elizabeth Waterstraat, will be by your (virtual) side the entire time.
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BEST FOR: Experienced marathoners looking for a PR PREREQS: A relatively healthy, injury-free body is essential; experience running at least one previous half marathon or marathon preferred; an established base of consistent running for at least the past 6 months; be able to complete a 10-mile run; preferred familiarity with more demanding workouts, such as tempo runs or negative-split runs, although we’ll help you through those. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 18
Crush the Distance, a marathon training program, isn't for the faint at heart; some days, you will definitely need to dig deep and shovel in some badass #motherrunner grit to get it done. When you do, you will be rewarded on race day with legs that are super-strong and able to tackle the distance with a vigor that surprises you.
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BEST FOR: Runners looking to tackle their first 26.2, or a returning runner PREREQS: Logged at least 12 months of consistent weekly mileage; completed a race or two; having finished a half-marathon isn’t a firm prereq, but definitely helpful. At a minimum, you should be able to currently run eight miles comfortably and have no injuries. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 18 This marathon program is designed for runners looking to tackle their first 26.2—or somebody who is coming back from an injury, a pregnancy, or is more interested in finishing the marathon than racing the marathon. We’ll ease you into the distance but we’re not gonna lie: Training for a marathon is a big deal. This plan makes the path seem manageable. (Sorta like bagged salads make veggies at dinner doable.) Training to cover 26.2 miles requires consistency and commitment, especially on the weekly long runs.
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BEST FOR: Those looking to complete a marathon with no time goals in mind PREREQS: Some run/walk experience; completed a half marathon or two; the ability to run/walk at least 60 minutes straight; current weekly mileage from 15 - 20 miles per week; injury free and in the habit of strength training twice a week in order to protect against injury NUMBER OF WEEKS: 18
The 26.2: Run/Walk the Distance program is designed for those looking to complete a marathon with no time goals in mind: it could be your first go at the distance, you might be returning from having a baby, or you want a kinder, gentler way to tackle 26.2.
You’ll be training with incrementally longer running to walking intervals; you’ll start at 4:1 run/walk intervals, and build to 15:2 by race day, long enough to slow down at the aid station and fuel up and then hit the ground running again. We’re going to keep the paces easy on this one, but we’re going to make sure you get in the mileage you need for a marathon. Each week will also include one long walk, which is factored into the weekly totals, so keep that in mind when you see the big numbers. You'll definitely get that same high crossing the finish line as your running sisters taking on more aggressive plans.
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BEST FOR: Well-trained and experienced marathoners PREREQS: Runners should have at least three marathons in the past three or four years; have established a solid base (long runs begin at 10 miles and the first week totals 27 miles); an injury free body. You will hit the ground running (literally!), so be mentally and physically ready for that reality. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 18
Point blank: 26.2: Obliterate the Distance is our toughest traditional running plan, and you should be well-trained and injury free to even consider it. It’s going to take some deep digging and dedication, not to mention a big investment in time.
We want you to have at least three marathons under your belt and a good base in those legs (read: at least five years of running). That said, if you’re after a BQ or a PR, this plan is your best shot. You’re going to come out of this program stronger than ever and ready to take things to the next level. You’ll run hills and mile repeats, hang in during tempo sessions, and spend plenty of time at race pace. You’ll also hammer out eight runs that are 15 miles or longer, but there are two cutback weeks woven into the first 15 weeks before you taper.
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BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 15K trail run. PREREQS: Have run at least one 10K (road or trail) in the last year; been running or walking consistently for at least 6 months; have a current mileage base of 10-12 miles/week for at least 8-10 weeks; no injuries, or are on your way to being injury-free—and willing to do the PT work you need to do to stay that way; a nearby trail you can train on at least 1x/week (more is better); time to commit to the running program AND the strength circuits and weekly yoga. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 16 Each week, there are five runs (one is an optional hike); two strength circuits; one yoga session; and one rest day. Together, the combination builds a strong, capable body + mind so you can go the distance, feeling solid and happy, on race day.
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BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 30K trail run. PREREQS: Have run at least one 10K (road or trail) in the last year; been running or walking consistently for at least 6 months; have a current mileage base of 15 miles/week for at least 8-10 weeks; no injuries, or are on your way to being injury-free—and willing to do the PT work you need to do to stay that way; a nearby trail you can train on at least 1x/week (more is better); time to commit to the running program AND the strength circuits and weekly yoga. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 16 This 16-week program is designed to get you to the starting line of a 30K trail event feeling race-ready and strong. There is quite a bit of elevation work in the training because most trail races have plenty of hills. Even if your race is relatively flat, you will gain strength and speed through lots of climbing. Each week, there are five runs (one is an optional hike); two strength circuits; one yoga session; and one rest day. Together, the combination builds a strong, capable body + mind so you can go the distance, feeling solid and happy, on race day.
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BEST FOR: Women looking to learn tips for sustainable, healthy eating to sustain their active lifestyle. 8 Weeks: September 23-November 17, 2024 While making good food choices is fairly straightforward—up your protein, eat plenty of fiber—our busy schedules make it more complicated. To wit: I travel for work. There's no way I can stick to a healthy eating schedule. Stress? I could power a small village with the cortisol pumping through my system! I can't even think about what's for dinner tomorrow; how can I meal plan for a whole week? Enter: Many Nutritious Miles: Active Lifestyle, a straight-shooting program led by sports nutritionist Jenn Giles, MS, RDN, CSSD, athlete and mother of four who understands busy schedules, on-the-go evenings, and the importance of fueling your body and mind. Over the course of eight weeks, we'll dive into four topics:
- Weight Management: A realistic perspective on a complicated, delicate topic (read: no focus on calorie-counting or restriction);
- Meal Planning: Tips and tactics to get a nourishing meal on the table whether you're feeding a full family or yourself;
- Nutrition on the Road: Best practices when you're on the road, at a weekend soccer tournament, or even eyeing a smoothie menu
- Managing Stress with Nutrition: Key concepts to remember as we approach the holidays.
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BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate triathletes who have their sights set on a sprint-distance race PREREQS: The ability to swim 100 yards in a pool without touching the bottom or hanging on the edge. It doesn’t have to be pretty, and you don’t have to keep your face in the water the whole time. If you can’t do that but are intent on this plan, enrolling in an adult swim class and/or private lessons is a great idea. For the run and bike portions, being injury-free is necessary. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 12
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BEST FOR: First-time half-marathoners or experienced half-marathoners who are new to training by heart rate PREREQS: Runs of at least 45-60 minutes 3-4 days of the week for at least 8 weeks. Injury-free. Previous race experience isn’t mandatory, but having a 10K under your soles will be helpful for perspective as your runs get longer. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 20 Heart + Sole: Half-Marathon, Level 1 is a 20-week program suitable for all runners wanting to take on 13.1—or 21 km. You’ll learn—or continue—to train by heart rate, using your individual zones, calculated by regular testing, to moderate your effort appropriately. You’ll spend plenty of time in the lower zones, building your endurance base; you’ll also spend some time climbing hills, finding different gears with pick-ups and intervals, and practicing your race pace so that you’re ready to thrive on race day.
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BEST FOR: Experienced half-marathoners looking to set a PR PREREQS: Runs of 50–60 minutes 4–5 days a week for at least 8 weeks. Completion of a half marathon or marathon within the past six months. Injury-free. Recommended completion of a Heart + Sole: Level I program (10K, half-marathon, or marathon), but that’s not a hard-and-fast rule. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 20 Heart + Sole: Half-Marathon, Level 2 is a 20-week program suitable for experienced runners ready for a challenging program and a strong race day. You’ll continue to train by heart rate, using your individual zones, calculated by regular testing, to moderate your effort appropriately. You’ll spend plenty of time in the lower zones, continuing to build your endurance base; you’ll also spend some time climbing hills, finding different gears with pick-ups and intervals, challenging yourself with progression runs and speed workouts, and practicing your race pace so that you’re ready to thrive on race day.
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BEST FOR: Experienced runners seeking a challenge and perhaps a marathon PR PREREQS: Runs of at least 60 minutes 4 days of the week for at least 12 weeks; injury-free; marathon experience within the last 18 months. We recommend having completed a Heart + Sole: Level I program (10K, half-marathon, or marathon). NUMBER OF WEEKS: 20
In Heart + Sole: Marathon, Level 2, you’ll continue to train by heart rate, using your individual zones, calculated by regular testing, to moderate your effort appropriately. You’ll spend a couple of runs weekly in the lower zones, building your endurance base; you’ll also spend some time climbing hills, finding different gears with pick-ups and intervals, and practicing your race pace so that you’re ready to thrive on race day.
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BEST FOR: First-time marathoners PREREQS: Runs of at least 45-60 minutes 3-4 days of the week for at least eight weeks; injury-free. Previous race experience is not mandatory, but having a half-marathon under your soles will be helpful for perspective as your runs get longer. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 20
Heart + Sole: Marathon, Level 1 is a 20-week program suitable for all runners wanting to take on the motherlode of all races: the marathon. You’ll learn—or continue—to train by heart rate, using your individual zones, calculated by regular testing, to moderate your effort appropriately. You’ll spend plenty of time in the lower zones, building your endurance base; you’ll also spend some time climbing hills, finding different gears with pick-ups and intervals, and practicing your race pace so that you’re ready to thrive on race day.
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BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 50K run, likely on trails. PREREQS: Have run at least one marathon (road or trail) in the last year; been running consistently for at least one year; have a current mileage base of 20-25 miles/week for at least 8-10 weeks (plus your weekly long run should be in the 8-10 mile range); no injuries, or are on your way to being injury-free—and willing to do the PT work you need to do to stay that way; a nearby trail you can train on at least 1x/week (more is better); time to commit to the running program AND the strength circuits and weekly yoga. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 20 Each week, there are five runs (one is an optional walk); two strength circuits; one yoga session; and one rest day. Together, the combination builds a strong, capable body + mind so you can go the distance, feeling solid and happy, on race day.
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BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 50 Mile race, likely on trails. PREREQS: Have completed a 50K within 12 months of starting program; no injuries, or are on your way to being injury-free—and willing to do the PT work you need to do to stay that way; have a nearby trail you can train on at least 1x/week (more is better); a nearby physical therapist who knows your body + your goals and who you can see regularly, especially in the thick of training; a foam rolling routine you will complete regularly (at least 3x a week); enough time to train and recovery properly (time to prepare food + eat well, foam roll, get adequate sleep) NUMBER OF WEEKS: 22
This 22-week 50 Mile program is designed for beginner to intermediate runners who have their sights set on a 50 Mile race, likely on trails. There are five to six weekly runs and two weekly strength circuits that build a strong, capable body + mind so you can go the distance, feeling solid and happy, on race day.
If you don’t meet them but are drooling at the thought of a 50 Miler, please email us at tlamclub@anothermotherrunner.com and we’ll chat.
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BEST FOR: Runners who want to complete multiple events in one weekend. PREREQS: You’ve been running at least 30–45 minutes 3–4 days of the week for at least 8 weeks. You’re injury-free. You don’t need previous experience running by heart rate, but it is helpful if you have run a half-marathon at some point. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 24 TRAINING BEGINS: July 29, 2024
Disney Races are truly magical events. After all, where else can you start under fireworks, kiss Prince Charming, joke around with Donald and Daisy, and Let It Go with Elsa, then cross a finish line and receive some serious bling?
However, two to four finish lines over as many days will not be magical if you are not properly prepared. If you’re slogging through the miles and barely able to muster a smile—let alone a bicep curl—for a shot with Wreck-It-Ralph, your Dopey or Goofy extravaganza will be memorable. Just not for the right reasons. With this 24-week, hands-on program starting on July 29, 2024, we’ve got your back and are laying a white-glove-clad, oversize hand firmly on it. The training plan we’ve created emphasizes both muscular and cardiovascular endurance and time on your feet: keys you’ll need to run every mile with a smile. But it's not all about the running. We'll be sure you're fueling properly for all your long runs. We’ll make sure your hips and glutes, typically the weak spots for most runners, are rock solid. We’ll have some fun too, brainstorming costume ideas and ideas. We'll entertain and educate you with podcasts and newsletters, and, of course, hit race strategies so that you not only enjoy your Dopey or Goofy Challenge, you’ll nearly fly during each mile. The end result? You feel primed and totally ready to run either challenge: The Dopey: 5K, then a 10K, then a half-marathon, then a marathon or the Goofy: a half-marathon then a marathon—no pixie dust required. -
BEST FOR: Beginner to intermediate triathletes who have their sights set on an Olympic-distance race PREREQS: The ability to swim 100 yards in a pool without touching the bottom or hanging on the edge. It doesn’t have to be pretty. (If you can’t do that but are intent on this plan, enrolling in an adult swim class and/or private lessons is a great idea.) For the run and bike portions, being injury-free is necessary. Ideally, you have completed a sprint triathlon—or at least run a 5K and 10K. NUMBER OF WEEKS: 16