Training for a Half Marathon (Run #2)

My second training session was better than my first.

I ran the same route at the same location so that I could start comparing stats on Strava and Garmin. I did better. By minutes, too!

I’m actually starting to notice that I’m running longer and more often during the second run.

For going out for my second time and improving, I feel like that’s a big accomplishment. Now, I find myself wanting to compete against myself. But it doesn’t always work in your favor (more on that in the #3 run blog post).

Nonetheless, the goal is still to train for my first half-marathon trail run.

Technical Stats

This is what I recorded with my Garmin Velo Active watch and submitted to Strava:

Mileage: 3.62 (last was 3.58)
Average Pace: 15.28 /mi (last was 16:17 /mi)
Moving Time: 56:05 (last was 58:22)
Elevation Gain: 354 ft (last was 341 ft)
Average Cadence: 122 spm (last was 120 spm)

I don’t admit the calories burned because I don’t think that metric is really that accurate or even that relevant.

Location

I did the same route as before at Dixon Springs State Park.

Notes

I ate a trail bar before the run and noticed that I didn’t need to eat any new fuel. I’ll be eating something before the run from now on to avoid having to eat a lot during the run, but I know that will change once I’m running more miles.

My Kit

This is what clothing, footwear, and gear I used for this run:

Shoes: Merrell Moab Speed 2 trail running shoe (Coyote color)
Socks: Bontrager Cycling Socks (quite comfortable in hotter weather)
Shorts: Janji Trail Running Half Tights 8” inseam (black)
Shirt: Amazon-brand dry-fit shirt
Watch: Garmin Velo Active (old but still works great)
Pack: Osprey Siskin 8 hydration pack
Hydration: Water and water with Fluid Tactical electrolytes
Fuel: Trail bar

I’m still loving my trail running shoes. I’ll likely give a full review of them on Hiking with Shawn. The Janji Half Tights are, so far, my favorite spandex shorts to run in. They have more pockets than you’ll need, are lined, and are really comfortable.

Final Thoughts

I’m happy with my results from this run. I tried harder and did better than I did last run. Now, I’m competing with myself.