Hands free leash for runners & walkers and a cool training program for your smartphone.

[Nina, Phil, Harlow & Lacey]

I have recently started running as a result of a challenge by my sister (a half marathoner) made to me on July 4th.  The challenge is that I run a half marathon with her by next July 4th.  Me being the competitve person that I am said, "your on sister!".  Of course the next day I thought "what the H E Double toothpicks were you thinking, Nina?"  But a challenge is a challenge and no way am I backing down from a challenge from my younger sister.  So I joined a local running group and started training for my first 5K.  I knew I had to run at least 3 times a week but our group only met 1 day a week. 

In comes the smartphone...  After looking at several "couch to 5K" iPhone apps I settled on Jeff Galloway's Ultimate 5K.  He uses walk/run intervals to help increase distance and endurance.  I am training doing 30/30 (30 seconds running - 30 seconds walking).  I am happy to say that I ran my first 5K on Sept. 8 and ran/walked it in 36 mins.

I am running another 5K on Oct 8 and this one is dog friendly.  I have been training with Harlow so she can run with me next weekend.  The problem though is trying to run with a regular leash; it throws off my balance a bit holding the leash in one hand and a water bottle in the other.  So off to Amazon (via the DK link) for some shopping.  I found a great hands free leash.  Not only does it free up my leash hand but it has a pouch for holding my keys and poo bags, as well as a loop to hold my water bottle.  Now both my hands are free and Harlow & I are enjoying the exercise we are getting.

[Nina, Phil, Harlow & Lacey]

I was sporatic walker and I had quite literally never run in my adult life.  I was truly starting from ground zero.

[Donna K & Quincy]

We have a road race called the Tely 10 which is a 10mile road race. A few years ago I decided I wanted to run it before I turned 50, I started running on my own and had worked up to about 7 miles and then twisted my knee. I had surgery and haven't really been able to run since. The doc tells me I have old knees and to use but not abuse them. I am trying to lose a few pounds and lately have been doing a couple of miles twice a week, it is tough getting the stamina back! I can't run too often as my knees do protest.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Walking is fine exercise and I would be happy to be able to do more of that. I call my knee cartilage shredded wheat  and await knew medical developments : )

[Donna K & Quincy]

My orthopod says they are getting close to being able to replace the cartilage without doing a total knee replacement. I'm hoping they'll have it ready by the time I need it.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I wish. They are working on stem cell injections too but I'm not so sure when they will be available and how safe and effective they will be. You doctor gave you good advice about use, don't abuse.

[Nina, Phil, Harlow & Lacey]

My BIL had knee replacement surgery a few years back (at 45).  Last year he started running with DW who is a marathoner (no pressure there, right?).  When his ortho found out he told BIL he shouldn't run or he would be replacing his knees again in 10 years.  Ortho recommended bicycling.  So now BIL bikes beside DW while she is training.

[Carol and Banjo]

Woo Hoo Nina!  That is awesome!   My daughter (the marathon runner and Iron Man competitor) is forever trying to lure me into local events....and being that I am NOT the competitive type it's easy for me to say "No WAY"!  LOL....but I am intrigued by your 30/30 approach to training.   Maybe I'll give this a shot once the rain stops.    Good Luck Oct 8th....we'll be rooting for you and Harlow!    I'm going to check out the leash. TY!

[Dani and Scout]

Congratulations Nina! Thanks for posting about your hands free leash. I have a regular water belt but I still have to carry the leash in my hand which I hate. I will definitely be getting this one!

 

I started my half-marathon training with Couch to 10K and loved the approach. It's very similar to Jeff Galloway's. My intent was to run a mile and walk a minute for my first half. I ended up running the whole thing so this approach is a fantastic way to get yourself going. I also noticed in my last half tons of people walk/running and many of them finished before me because the walking allowed them to conserve their energy. Good luck with your next race!

[Sally]

awesome!!! I started out running about 4 years ago and used Jeff Galoway's method as well. I'm now gearing up for my first full marathon in 5 weeks. it's crazy addictive. I hope you enjoy your journey....when you look back and see the distances increase each week it is almost as good a feeling as after eating an ice cream sundae! And to get the doodle involved is a win win!

[Sue, Lola, Pongo & Hubby]

This is genius! I want one now. When running, does it stay in place, or does it bounce around?? I can imagine it could get annoying if it doesn't stay in place. Good for you for doing this, you're going to get totally sucked in to the running world with the rest of us!!

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Congrats to you! Those leashes are nice for runners!

[Nina, Phil, Harlow & Lacey]

Andrea, I started 5K training this past July just a few weeks before my 57 birthday.  Doing run/walk intervals really helps.  I started out running 15 seconds and walking for 45 seconds.  When I did my first 5K on Sept. 8 I was running 20 seconds and walking 40.  I was able to complete the race in 36 minutes.  I am now doing 30/30 run/walk intervals.  The walk intervals between the run ones helps you to catch your breath and lower your heart rate while allowing you to increase your stamina and endurance.