My 8-Week Training Program

By Brittany Mueller

Running is a great way to clear your mind and explore the outdoors! I run 3 times a week and gradually build up my miles every week.

Since our YMCA 5K Series is here, I have specifically been training for 3.1 miles. I started running a maximum of 1.5 miles the first week and have been building up to 3.1 miles this final week 8.

I add .25 miles to each of my longer runs which I do twice per week. The third run is usually an easier pace and less miles!

It feels great to get out and run around the neighborhood. But when the weather isn’t great, I choose to run inside at one of the tracks at our YMCAs.

It is important to build mileage slowly to help avoid injuries. Some of the ways I like to keep my runs fun are to run with a friend, listen to podcasts, or change up my running scenery by going to different parks and historic sites.

Whether you’re a new runner or experienced runner, sometimes you just don’t have the motivation to run! If you have a longer run, but you feeling like skipping I usually try different mile techniques. For example: a gratitude mile – for a whole mile I think about everything I am grateful for. Trust me, it makes the time go much faster! Most importantly don’t forget a good stretch after any run, no matter how short. Listen to your body and have fun!