Many of you may be familiar with run/walk intervals as a form of training/racing. For example, you run for 1 minute, then walk for 1 minute. What some may not know is that this is not always a method for beginners or the injured. Many people (including myself) use this for life. In February, I completed the Glass Slipper Challenge (10K + Half Marathon at Walt Disney World) with run/walk intervals. Jeff Galloway, a former Olympian and the creator of the Jeff Galloway Method, recently qualified and completed the Boston Marathon this way.
I have previously discussed the fact that I never thought I wanted to be a runner. Long story short… during my weight loss, I decided I would give running a fair shot (mainly because I was too stubborn to say it was something I COULDN’T do). I downloaded a Couch to 5K app, planning to train all the way through to a 5K before I decided if I would quit. This program does use the run/walk intervals, but only until you work up to running the entire distance. After about a month of training, I was running 5 minutes, walking 1 minute. I did it. I was proud that I did it. Did I enjoy it? Not really. I didn’t hate it enough to quit, but I also was not sure if I wanted to run beyond the planned 5K. I certainly did not think I wanted to run a half marathon.
Being the Disney nerd that I am, I was very interested in runDisney. This is the Disney-sponsored racing series, in which runners can race through the Disney parks. They have a very informative website (), on which one can find tips from a nutritionist (Tara Gidus) and training plans from a training consultant (Jeff Galloway). As I learned more and more from the official site, message boards, and blogs (I told you I was a Disney nerd), I discovered the Galloway Method. I was pleased to see that this was a running technique in which walk breaks are integrated, but it is much more flexible than a Couch to 5K program. Runners can choose their own intervals and pace. It is not a means to an end, but a technique that can be employed for a lifetime of running. I downloaded the Galloway Easy 5K app and got to work. At first I tried 4min/1min intervals. This was fine, but the more I studied the method, I learned that many people use shorter intervals. I started playing with the times and discovered that the shorter my intervals were, it gave me either the same pace or faster. I experimented until I arrived at the 30sec/30sec intervals I still use today.
Some may think that those who run/walk are not runners. I say that if you run, you’re a runner; no matter how fast, or how far. We are getting out there, putting one foot in front of the other, and crossing the finish line, just like those who do not use intervals. If you’re a beginner, afraid to start running, think you hate running, or just want to try something new, I highly suggest this method. You may find that you will not only finish a race still upright, still smiling, but you will finish ahead of some people using different techniques. The beauty of running is that everyone runs their own race their own way. Find what works for you and enjoy the journey.
The 2014 runDisney Princess Half Marathon – Part 2 of the Glass Slipper Challenge!
For more information on Jeff Galloway, check out http://www.jeffgalloway.com/. You can also visit the official runDisney website at www.rundisney.com for information about future races and to download specific training programs.
NOTE: Though it might seem like it, I have no affiliation with Jeff Galloway or runDisney, nor was this post sponsored by anyone. All reviews and suggestions are my own. I am just a huge fan and excited to share with all of you!
Tags: Jeff Galloway, run/walk, runDisney, running
I say WHATEVER WORKS!! I started running 2 years ago with the Couch25k program and LOVED it! However, over the last year I have become a slacker so of course I have lost my running stamina!
Sunday I ran 2 miles, but I walked the entire 1st half mile. Just that little change made it so much easier.
Keep on keeping on!!
Shannon
http://www.irunreadteach.wordpress.com
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Exactly! Everyone just has to find their own way…and that may change with time. As long as you’re moving, that’s what counts! Thanks for reading!
I am so proud of you. Love you Baby.