How fitting that Marathon Training Kick Off week coincides with National Running Day! Or should I say MAHRERTHERN TRERNIN! EMG is right. I just got nauseous. That kinda snuck up on me. It’s time to get my Run Face on, lace up my Newton’s and get real. This time I mean business. This is the year I will give it all I’ve got. Yeah, I’m looking at you Boston. I’ve got my eye on qualifying. And I’m mixing this shit up a lil’ bit. I’ve decided to use Hansons Marathon Method. Unorthodox, I know. Crazy? Maybe.
The Hansons Method eliminates the Uber-Long Run and the Uber High-Mileage weekend, two age old staples in marathon training. Training for a marathon without an 18, 20 or even 22 miler kinda makes me itch. It would really make me burst out in hives if this were my first marathon, but it’s not. It’s my 8th. And quite frankly, if I am focused on my goal of a running a Boston qualifying time, I need to re-focus my training plans. If I hadn’t seen how well my Other Half’s marathon training had gone using this method, I probably wouldn’t have considered it. He was super ballsy doing this plan for his first marathon. I was worried he would lack the pre-requisite mental confidence that is gained with a 20 mile run. (Uh, no. He didn’t.) Hold on to your butts, Poodles! Here are the cliff notes to the Hansons’ radical marathon training method!
- No Weekly Long Run. You max out at 16 miles. Pick your jaw up off of the floor. It’s true.
- No Back to Back Super Long Runs. That doesn’t mean you won’t be running your face off, your just not following your 20-miler with another doozy the next morning. ‘Cuz there’s no 20 miler. *Gasp!*
- You will run 6 days a week. Consistency is key. It’s about the quality of miles run and not necessarily the quantity of miles run. But believe me, you are RUNNING.
- You will run speed, strength and tempo workouts that are focused on your goal pace. Goal pace is key with this plan. And if I want to run a particular qualifying time? Duh. It’s time to focus on my pace. No slacking, Colby. Strap on your Garmin. See this oval thing? It’s a track. You’re gonna remember how much you loved each other.
- Other than prescribed workouts, your runs will be grouped into Easy Runs (1-2 minutes slower than goal pace) and Something Of Substance Runs (SOS). Keep your eyes glued towards the heavens. You will see me sending up SOS flares from time to time. I am sure of it. Gah.
- Fresh Legs? Forget ‘em. You’re not going to have them. And that’s for a reason. This method’s focus is on the last 16 miles of the race. Bonking? What bonking? This plan emphasizes Active Recovery, hence your Easy Runs.
What does all this mean for you, Dear Reader? Fasten your 5-point harness, because you’re going to be getting Colby’s Hansons Training Updates with frequency! Aren’t you lucky! I apologize in advance. But it’s true. At least they might make you giggle. I think I need to put ’em out there to keep me honest. I am locked and loaded. I’ve been running for years. Enough. It’s BQ Time.
I would be remiss if I didn’t say: Happy National Running Day! Remember to hug another runner! Why do you run? I run to overcome! I run because slapping people is frowned upon! I run because it keeps me whole! I run to experience The Thrill of the Done. Giving it all you have. During that run. On that day. In that moment. There is simply nothing better. Happy Running Friends! 🙂
God, I love running.
What marathon training method do you use? Would you be comfortable training for your next marathon WITHOUT The Long Run? Am I nuts?
It's A Marathon AND A Sprint 
And the best post award goes to….THE COLBSTER!
Your excitement is infectious and I love it and YOU.
And that BQ business? #yougotthis
OhmyHELLY! You are such a love. Thank you, you silly fool. And thanks for believing in me. I might have to do daily affirmations to go on believing I can do it. BUT DAMMIT. I AM TRYING. XOXOXO
That is such a baller finish line picture! I haven’t done a full yet, so I’ll be very interested in seeing how this goes for you. I feel like I’m probably going to laugh/cringe a lot.
I usually look like an exhausted boy in my finish line pictures. But that one? That one is IT. If I never get another picture at a finish line it’s ok because that one sums up EXACTLY why I run. I have a feeling I’m going to be posting some cringe-worthy colorful posts. 😉
I know several people who have used that method, and they really liked it! I think you will too 🙂 i personally just need a couple of those 20 milers to feel “ready” for mine. PS which one are you doing?? I just did san diego, and i’m signing up to try and get a BQ in savannah in november tonight!
You do?? Great! I’m happy to hear it!! I think it’s going to be a huge effort— but I am hoping it’s worth it. It better freakin’ be. I think I can part with the 20 miler and be ok. I might have to turn the 16 into an 18 just in case, but I’ll decide when I’m there. I’m running Baystate in October! Good luck in Savannah!!!!!! I’m cheering for you! 🙂
I’m super interested to see how your training goes! I’ve never really explored this method of training, but rather tend to mesh some different training methods together. While I am a big fan of back to back high milage weeks and long runs, I have also seen the benefits of running 6 times a week and learning how to keep pushing on tired legs. I also tend to run my longer runs about 45-60 seconds a mile slower than my goal pace. I think this has helped me getting used to being on my legs and moving for an extended period of time. Very excited for you!!! Good luck and happy NRD : )
You and me both! I’m in the middle of reading the book. I think it’s going to become my bible. But if I’m serious about trying to BQ, I really need to work on structured workouts and pace. I do the same with my long runs normally. Time on the legs is important. I’m interested to see how time on tired legs goes. My ultra marathon training was kind of like this. Here goes nothin’!!!! And back at ya Jamie!! Happy NRD!
You’ll do great and absolutely get that BQ!
I sure hope so!
This is exciting! Looking forward to seeing your results and thoughts on this style of training.
I am excited! I hope all goes well….stay tuned! 🙂
Well, just think of all the hills you ate for breakfast this weekend, and know that those will be your legs for the next good while. I actually like my good ole long runs 😀 But I am well aware that I am rather weird.
And you better be running Boston with me!
Good point Ms. Suze. I think it will be good. I need a little structure. A little, tell me what I’m running because I make decisions and THINK all damn day. I need to be a little robotic at the moment. I hate to say it, but I’m gonna miss the long run too! I NEED TO BE IN BOSTON WITH YOU!!!!! 🙂
OMG I love that pic!!1 You will rock anything you put your mind to!! I use a modified version of Hal Higdon’s Novice 2 plan…I don’t do mid week long runs, just the weekend long run progression/regression plan with 2 mid shorter runs, cross training and weights. I normally bike once a week, but haven’t gotten my bike (cheapy walmart one) fixed yet.
Thank you! Every time I get down about running- and I’m totally serious- I look at that picture and remember what it feels like at that very moment. 🙂 I have used modified versions of that as well. And usually always manage to get some time in on the bike. This is going to be interesting because I have a huge 2 day ride coming up which with this training, is going to be a beast.
I’ll be cheering for you!!!!
Thank you Michelle!!!! Xoxo
I’ve eyed the Hansons but I always end up with Hal Higdon, my comfort zone. This time around I think I’ll hire a coach? GOOD LUCK I shall be curious how you like it.
I’m getting uncomfortable all right!! Besides. I hear that’s where the magic happens. 😉
Ooh, the Hansons Method sounds intriguing! I’m looking forward to reading how it goes for you. Also, that is an *awesome* finish line pic! And also also, I’m loving the title of this post… it makes me think of Hansons Method involving Ike, Taylor, and Zak standing on the side of the road cheering you on. Not sure how motivating that would be… 😉
Ever since I wrote this damn post I’ve been singing that damn song. All 2 words that I know. #IsMMMbopTwoWordsOrOne Stay tuned! It will be colorful. Minimally. 😉
Yahoo! And Oh SHIT!! I thought training for Baystate didn’t start until the end of June. I am already behind? I don’t even know what I am using for a training plan yet. And I haven’t signed up for the race! I’m freaking out…but so excited to see how Hanson works for you. And so excited for us to run our FIRST marathon together!! YAHOOOOOOOOOO!!!
PS – You’re gonna kick ass. xxo
PPS – Second best race pic ever, right after Cindi and the gorilla.
You are so AHEAD of the goddamn ball, Lady. I need werk if I want to line up with you in Boston. OUR FIRST MARATHON TOGETHER!!!!! Now that’s gonna be a POST. 🙂 xoxo
Philadelphia is offering a discount on the entry fee today to 9 pm. My marathon plan is simple. I run a bunch between now and November 1st. Then I eat like a horse for 3 weeks. On the starting line I say – It’s only 5 1/2 hours between now and when I finish. As they say on TeeVee – ” It’s just that easy.” I’ll probably go no longer than 16 once or twice.
I will say that the timing of Philly is perfect – your post-race rest period coincides nicely with the holidays. Good Planning, Phil!
That Phil. He’s always thinkin’.
I saw that deal Phil! After Tina’s EPIC Philly marathon last year, the only way I could get her to run it is if I dangled “WEEKEND AT THE RITZ” in front of her and threw in a full on day of beauty.
I’ll waiting at The Barking Dog or whatever the name of that joint was on Sunday night after the marathon. Shall we say – 8pm?
I’m not sure if we’ll be allowed back to that joint. #woodenleg
Well, we can always trash the Ritz instead.
woo.! way to be ballsy.!! I am pretty excited to hear how it goes for you. Im interested to see how it goes with no long run. That would be nice.! (in some ways)
BQ time for sure.!!
You and me both! I’m wondering if I have a total melt-down-running-freak out and wake up one morning, jump out of bed and run 22 miles in my Jammie’s. It’s gonna be good. 😉
Good luck! The plan sounds awesome actually, and I’m hoping it works out well! Also, that picture of you at the end is seriously amazing.
It sounds brutal. But in that awesome-sadistic-I-am-motivated way! And thank you. My race pictures are always hideous. That one is a keeper. 🙂
So looking forward to following your marathon training. I’ve just put our marathon training plan on the fridge but ours isn’t until mid-October and we are only doing nine weeks of training (ugh so frightened by this). we’re using a method were we go up in kms one week then down and only go up to 32kms total. It’s called ‘bouncing’ here. Time will tell if it’s any good. We felt that the plan we did last time left us exhausted by race day…I just hope that this one won’t mean we aren’t prepared enough. All the best…looking forward to following along. Always love your posts!
NINE WEEKS! You are a SUPER ballsy, BOUNCING Runner! You also have tons on miles on those strong legs of yours. I’m exciting to follow your training! I’m hoping I’m not tuckered come race day. While there is a taper, it’s not like what I am used to. Although I guess its proportional to the amount of running. Either way, I’ll be in running hell- loving every minute of it! 🙂
OMG, I used the Hansons Marathon Method and PR’d by over 10 minutes AND Boston-Qualified! If you stick to the training (at least around 85-90%) and train on terrain/elevation that mimics the race course, you’ll do super well. Plus, you’ll be able to run and hit your paces even with all of the cumulative fatigue (I never hit the wall during the race!).
Good luck! 😀
I AM SO HAPPY TO HEAR THIS YOU HAVE NO IDEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry. I’m yelling. I am to the MOON! Were you totally spent from the work outs? That’s so, so encouraging to hear!!! Congrats!!!! And here goes nothin’! 🙂
I’ve had several friends who’ve used the Brooks Hanson plan and most of them loved it. It was tough. You know this. BUT they all had great marathons afterwards. Very impressed with you, and can’t wait to read more about your training–and results!
I am so encouraged to hear they did well. I’m all for putting in the work. I can channel my inner work horse easily enough. I’m just thrilled to hear it paid off! Thank you Angela! I am so happy you’re back!!! oxoxoxo
Sounds similar to the plan I’m using! Only thing is this is my first marathon so I sometimes have doubts and wonder if I should have started with something more traditional..
It was My Other Half’s first and he kicked that marathon in the TEETH! He BQ’d by 10 minutes. Which is ridiculous. Good luck training! My only advice would be to stick to the plan as much as possible. Then call me when you’re tapering. I’ll talk you down. YOU CAN DO THIS. 🙂
Haha I will!! I haven’t missed one workout yet in 10 weeks but it’s been tough!
BEAST!!!!!!!!!!
Yay! Go get your BQ! I’ve seen that Hansons Method has worked for some people. I don’t know how I feel about it for myself though. I feel like the 20-milers are the huge confidence builders that I need going into the marathon and it’d take awhile to convince me to give them up. I’m excited to see where this takes you though! Good luck! I’m on the road to try to BQ this fall too 😀 Let’s do this!!
Ok Charissa—WE’RE DOING THIS. It’s official. We’re BQing. Dammit. When I freak out after “only” running 14, plan on me contacting you while rocking in the corner. What marathon are you running? We’re in this together! Xo 🙂
Steamtown in PA! I picked it because it’s supposed to be a great potential BQ course (aka net DOWNHILL!!!). Good luck! What race did you pick? I don’t know if I missed it or you didn’t mention it?? Boston 2017!! (Unless you’re running a super early fall marathon?)
I read about that one!! I picked Baystate because of the same reason- great BQ course! Boston 2017 or BUST!!!! (Unless they change something and allow Baystate to sneak in 😉 ) HERE WE GO CHARISSA!!!!
Good for you! I remember looking at Hansen before and seeing week 1 track workout was like 12 x 400’s. That’s starting off on the right puke. Good luck, I’ll be curious to follow along.
I’m working on my plan – I’m looking at the Nike+ advanced, but also the Alzheimers folks sent me their plan, and it’s pretty intense. But I want to go for it this marathon. I’m excited for a huge PR. At the Dopey Challenge I ran 4:07 after three days of previous races. I’m hoping to be about 30 minutes faster than that! I want to eventually BQ, but right now I’d have to run a GD 3:15. What the frick!?! Working on it!
Yes puke much. That 12 x 400s was the other day. And while painful, IT WAS GREAT. I missed training like that! I’m a track girl at heart. I dig all the werk. I’m hoping it goes well. If you ran that on tired legs, I have no doubt you’ll be super sub 4. Shave 30 off the bat! It’s going to be interesting. It’s like I’m my own Science Experiment. . Totally up my alley! 🙂
I ran track in high school, love track work! Watch out 26.2, Scott and Colby Colb are coming for you, beotch!
BOOOOOOM!
I love your NYCM finish pic! It says everything about how you feel about running.
I can’t wait to hear how Hanson’s works for you. His method is very similar to what my physical therapist recommends, so he must be right, right?
He’d better be right!!! I’m excited for this training cycle! I think it was time for a change. I hope this über motivated Colby sticks around! And thank you! That one just says it all! Xo
That is hands down, the best finish line photo ever! I would totally train for a marathon without the long training runs. I say that because I have no desire to run another marathon, but an ultra I would attempt (that’s my Jedi speak). Can’t wait to read all about your training!!
Thank you! I think the miles to good photo ratio is about 4,000 to 1. Finally! Ahhh the Ultra. I’ve run one. And I’m looking forward to another. Just as soon as I get through this “no long run” business. 😉
Pingback: The Friday Five. Five Fuels You Can Run On! | It's A Marathon AND A Sprint
A new program, how exciting! And if your superstar other half is any indication, it’s bound to be an effective one. 🙂 Will look forward to hearing all the updates and best of luck to you with it. Btw, I showed Mat your “sleepus interrupts” post, and he was rolling on the floor. If you can make a comedian laugh out loud, you know you’re doing something right! 🙂
*bows down*
MAT THOUGHT IT WAS FUNNY?!?!? Shit. I am HONORED. Your husband is one funny bastard. That just made my Monday!!! And yes. New program. I am hoping that My Other Half’s talent will rub off on me. What is it? Monkey See. Monkey Do?
xoxoxo,
Curious George
Pingback: Running, Reuniting and Drunk Otis. | It's A Marathon AND A Sprint
Pingback: The Joy of Almonds. Five Fun Facts! | It's A Marathon AND A Sprint
I’m trying to BQ this fall too. I think we may be in the same age group? Anyway, I haven’t tried Hansen’s although I do like that they have so many tempo runs, but the lack of 18-22 milers makes me nervous. I do McMillan’s with a coach, and we do more variety (I think) than Hansen’s and we do fast finish long runs as the not-so-fresh legs workouts.
GET IT LADY!!! I’m 43. I just cringed. I cringe every time I admit it. I wish I had a coach! My Other Half pretends he’s my coach. And I’ve gotta say, he’s good! Which marathon are you shooting for?? Good Luck!!!!! Hansons is tough. But I’m hoping it gets me where I need to be. If not, I swear I’ll take up golf.
Oh, you’re younger than me. I just moved into the 45-49 age group. The only plus is that I get extra time to BQ. I’m running Wineglass in October. What about you? (Sorry if I missed where you already said)
I’m trying to coach my husband (he’s a swimmer and reluctant runner) because he says he needs training to spectate my races.
Nope. I’m in the 40-45. Dammit. However. Running Baystate won’t qualify me for the 2016 Boston Marathon. It will qualify me for the 2017 one. So my age when running it in 2017 will be 45. I need to confirm, but I believe I would have to run the 45-50 qualifying standard. Either way? It’s fast. And I’m in hell.
I love that your husband is a Reluctant Runner. I smell a Blogger in the making! 🙂
That’s true! I tried qualifying at Baystate last year (missed by 8 minutes with gastric distress:( ) when I was 44 and was going for the 45-49 BQ time. Baystate is a great course for qualifying. I thought about going back this year. They put on a good race.
So we’ll be training for the same goal 🙂
YAHOOO!!! WE CAN DO IT!!! I’m so happy to hear that you liked Baystate. I’ve heard nothing but good things about it- especially with regard to a BQ. AND I’M GLAD IT’S TRUE!!! I missed a BQ by 7 minutes a few years back. I’m up for the challenge! Here’s to healthy, zippy training for the both of us!!!
It sounds like you’re on track with the tempos! I’m going to be be eagerly following your training 🙂
I’m getting there, Lady!!! 🙂
Pingback: Acceptance. – It's A Marathon AND A Sprint