Chi Discussion Forum

Hello, I am training for my 1st half marathon on October 14th, using online Chi program. My question is: I have a 10k race on September 22nd (so, 3-4 weeks before the half marathon), and would miss the longest run of the program (21k) scheduled by the program on that weekend.
What do you suggest to do regarding the scheduled long runs and racing? Should I not go for the 10k race, or should I run the long run the following weekend? I am confused about this - is the effort I would put into the 10k race equal to that of the long, long run?
Thank you! - Natasha

If your target race is the October half, why not run the 10K course twice in succession as your long run?  The first time around would be the 10K race, run at your long run pace, and the second time around would just continue at that pace.

Hi Natasha -

I would agree with Richi - if that 10K is not a target race, and you won’t be tempted to race it during the event, you could turn it into your long run. I think it takes more discipline to do that (not turn it into a race) than it does to just go out and do the long run on your own. But it could be a great teaching tool for learning how to hold back in the beginning of your Half marathon, while others take off too fast.

If you do want to race the 10K, you can add on some very easy warm up and cool down miles on either side of it, though maybe not a full 10K of them. Above all, listen to your body and don’t sacrifice your target run (the Half) for the 10K.

Laura Houston
Certified Chi Running and Chi Walking Instructor
Seattle WA

Thank you Laura nad Richi, this makes sense!