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Free is better than cheap

by SkinnyRunner on January 9, 2012

{Sorry, SR got a little snarky yesterday and I don’t want this site to be about that so my apologies.  Sometimes it’s just better to keep your mouth shut. and sometimes I forget that}

Rock ‘n’ Roll AZ Marathon is coming up this weekend and it’s going to be a PR attempt.  But since I’m already doubting myself and my lack of long runs lately, I’ve got the back up PR attempts on lock…

Recently_Updated

Tri-City Medical Center Carlsbad Marathon the following weekend

Surf City USA Marathon beginning of February

IMS Arizona Marathon middle of Feb…

Remember the post where I decided to run the IMS Arizona Marathon in Phoenix on February 19th?  The race is smaller, affordable, flat and fast, has got very good reviews online and proceeds go to charities.

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Well, if you wanna run in the sun it’s your lucky day because IMS Arizona Marathon has just offered to give one race entry away to one of you guys!  Who wants to run AZ with me and RER??

Not in marathon shape?  That’s ok because there’s a half marathon, 5k and a marathon relay if you want to run it with friends.

ims-marathon-full-course-map

To enter the giveaway, all you have to do “like” IMS Arizona Marathon on Facebook.  Just let me know in the comments.

Extra entry for tweeting or blogging about it.

The contest will end Friday 1/13.  Official rules.

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Other stuff to check out…

***Reader Deb reminded me of ShutUpandRun’s post about a running relative who’s missing.  Please look at her post and say a prayer, say something if you know something and be careful out running!

***Reader Bryna is looking for some advice on Hal Higdon’s marathon training plan; she’s hoping to run under 3:30.  Since I haven’t followed it (or any) does anyone have any opinions on Hall’s plan?  What plan do you follow?  Any plans you don’t recommend?

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***HungryRunnerGirl has been showcasing some Olympic Time Trials athletes on her blog and SarahOUaL and Emily are actually going to be there but if you can’t, Runner’s World has a special page devoted to EVERYTHING time trials. 

They even have a cheat sheet about all the big players although it probably won’t help you on your bio chem test.

Skinny Runner

{ 102 comments… read them below or add one }

Katherine January 9, 2012 at 8:23 am

I’ve followed Hal’s beginner and intermediate plans and I love them. Each time I’ve followed them I’ve improved my time, and they keep me motivated!

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kari @ Running Ricig January 9, 2012 at 8:24 am

I loosely used a Hal Higdon training plan for my marathon last year. It worked as a guide so I had some idea of what I should be doing, but I didn’t follow it very strictly.

You’ll rock it this weekend!

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paula January 9, 2012 at 8:25 am

Don’t apologize for stating your opinion/feelings…..it’s YOUR blog … and it’s very entertaining and inspiring!
thanks for being YOU :)

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Losing Lindy January 9, 2012 at 8:25 am

Good luck with your PR! I know you can do it.

What a sad story about the teacher.. :(

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Melinda January 9, 2012 at 8:26 am

Free is definite better than cheap! I want to do this race! I have never done a half in AZ, but with this entry I totally would. The timing works out for me. I liked the page on FB!

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Anonymous January 9, 2012 at 8:31 am

I think Hal Higdon’s plan is a little “light” on mileage for a sub-3:30. I would reccomend a higher mileage plan like Pete Pfitzinger and Scott Douglas 18 week 55 mile peak plan (buy the Advanced Marathoning book).

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Stephanie January 9, 2012 at 8:35 am

I followed Hal Higdon’s intermediate for the last couple marathons I ran. My first time using the intermediate plan was last year for a spring marathon. My goal was to BQ, and I did! I ran a 3:38.

I really enjoy Hal’s programs. I have used them for my first marathon, first half and have modified the intermediate to use for Boston. since I am pregnant training isn’t like it used to be but I still need to put in the mileage!!

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Stephanie January 9, 2012 at 8:36 am

Oops, that should be a 3:28, not 3:38!!

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Erin January 9, 2012 at 8:36 am

I “liked” their page on facebook!

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Rebecca January 9, 2012 at 8:36 am

I just “liked” the Arizona Marathon on Facebook. Surf City full sold out, so I’m looking for another one for February to help me train for Boston.

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Sara January 9, 2012 at 8:40 am

I can’t say re: HH’s marathon plans (I’m still a beginner–training for my 1st half) but I did his beginner 10K plan last fall and I really liked it. It’s pretty simple/straightforward and allows for adjustments as you go.

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Jennifer January 9, 2012 at 8:50 am

I’ve been using Hal’s Novice 2 plan and I’ll let you know after Saturday how it all plays out!

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jenny January 9, 2012 at 8:55 am

i use hal’s advice for training and non-training. he’s awesome!

and i agree, no need to apologize for something you type on your blog….this is “your blog” if some turdball doesn’t like it then that turbdall should just not read it….that simple. HAIL to SR!!!!

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Jenn January 9, 2012 at 8:55 am

You will PR : )

I “like” the Arizona Marathon on Facebook and I will LOVE it if I can run it! Fingers crossed!

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Ali @SeeAliEatSeeAliRun January 9, 2012 at 8:56 am

I think Hal’s plans are great and if you’re shooting for a very specific time the Intermediate-Advanced programs are awesome.
Living in Montana, SUAR’s story hits really close to home. Every small town in Montana is supportive and close-knit and I know everyone there is doing everything they can to aid in the search. Prayers sent that way!

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sneakers2sandals January 9, 2012 at 8:56 am

Thanks for the suggestions on where to find Olympic trials info. I’ve been wanting to get informed!

Gl this weekend!

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jess January 9, 2012 at 8:56 am

I LIKED IT! and I would love to have it as my first marathon! :)

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Kailin January 9, 2012 at 9:01 am

I liked them. I would LOVE to win this!

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Dusty @ Running to Healthy January 9, 2012 at 9:10 am

I followed HH’s 10k training plan and loved it. I am starting his 1/2 marathon training program at the end of the month and am really looking forward to it.

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Jennifer Adams January 9, 2012 at 9:24 am

I put it up on Twitter and liked on Facebook!!! My sister lives 2 hours from Phoenix so it’d be great to see her as well as run the half marathon… Not full marathon ready yet.

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Beth Ulibarri January 9, 2012 at 9:31 am

I liked the IMS Marathon on Facebook. I’m also going for a PR at RnR in Phoenix this weekend, but would love to run IMS too, it sounds like a fast course.

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Beth Ulibarri January 9, 2012 at 9:32 am

Tweeted about the IMS Marathon too.

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Pam January 9, 2012 at 9:35 am

“Advanced Marathoning” is a good one and “Run Less, Run Faster” is also a good one. I know you don’t like plans but, “RLRF” has great speed workouts detailed that are pretty challenging and will help you to get out of your comfort zone. I’ve never followed a plan to a tee but, I like to pick up on a variety of plans and apply them to my run to improve. :)

No worries about having to defend and rebute against negativity that is put on your plate. You’re sharing with us and sharing is caring. :)

Have a great Monday! hugs! :)

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Kirstin Stone January 9, 2012 at 9:36 am

Liked the IMS AZ Marathon page! I’d love to do another half in February, and I’ve never travelled for one before!

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Lindsay January 9, 2012 at 9:38 am

I liked em on FB! Maybe I’ll see you there.

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Julie January 9, 2012 at 9:47 am

I liked them on facebook!

Sherry and SUAR are in my thoughts and prayers.

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Lynda @ Hit The Road Jane January 9, 2012 at 9:51 am

Wow that’s a lot of races back to back!! Does J ever give you funny looks for racing so much? I get the look and I only do 6 or 7 a year :P Boo. lol

Looking forward to reading your recaps!!

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Deirdre @ Oh Well Whatever January 9, 2012 at 9:52 am

I have never followed a training plan too closely. Just the distance for the long runs on weekends and then during the week was whatever/whenever. Hence my PR of 4:52, my first marathon….

Don’t ever apologize for what you write if someone doesn’t like it they can stop reading.

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~Jessica~ January 9, 2012 at 9:56 am

I think, given the circumstances, you were well within your rights to be snarky.

And never doubt yourself. I don’t doubt you, and I don’t back losers.

xxx

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Shut Up and Run January 9, 2012 at 10:13 am

Thanks SR for the shout out to my post about Sherry. Collectively, we can pray and send positive thoughts.

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Krissy @ Shiawase Life January 9, 2012 at 10:24 am

I followed Hal Higdon’s training plan for my first half and really enjoyed it – ran it in 2:04, then started Marathon training a few months later with Runner’s World Smart Coach and had a 1/2 near the end, improved time by 16 minutes.

I think it’s important to work with your current fitness and assess a logical plan for your personal goals.

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Mandi January 9, 2012 at 10:25 am

I “like” IMS Arizona Marathon on Facebook.!! :-)

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Chelsea C January 9, 2012 at 10:30 am

I love the word snarky. :)

I would LOVE a free entry!!

Liked on FB.
Tweeting as @coxchelsea

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Robin Johnson January 9, 2012 at 10:38 am

I have followed Hal Higdon’s Half Marathon program and have had a client or two in the past follow his program. If you follow it correctly you’ll will cross the finish line healthy and happy. Is it for everyone? I’m not sure…but it’s worked for several people I know, including myself. Good luck! http://www.dashingdiva.net

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Sarah January 9, 2012 at 10:43 am

I’m dorkily excited about the trials, and have been devouring any article I see about them. Living vicariously through the super stars! There are a few (30?) people from CO who qualified, so I’m cheering them on!

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holly January 9, 2012 at 10:43 am

i liked them on fb..thanks!!

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Chels R. January 9, 2012 at 10:48 am

So excited about the Olympic time trials! Wishing I could actually be there…will be watching from home!

Good luck on your upcoming marathons! Not that you need it ;-)

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Amy B. January 9, 2012 at 10:48 am

Thoughts and prayers with Sherry and her family. What a sad situation! I hope they find her soon!

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Annette@EnjoyYourHealthyLife January 9, 2012 at 11:23 am

NICE–you have a lot of races on the schedule. GO you!

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Kailin January 9, 2012 at 11:36 am

I posted about your giveaway on my blog (and of course linked to this page). Good luck this weekend!

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Heather January 9, 2012 at 12:29 pm

I am also running the RnR AZ this weekend…I was hoping to run a PR in the half, but it’s not looking so good. I was also looking to add the IMS Arizona half in case my PR didn’t happen. I liked them on Facebook…would love to win an entry! I want to get my sub 2:00 half!

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Megan January 9, 2012 at 1:07 pm

I liked the IMS page on Facebook. I am a new runner. Ran the Vegas RNR for my 1st half and it wasn’t the 1st race experience I was hoping for. I am running the Phoenix RNR and hopefully it will be a little more organized. I would love to do the IMS race, it starts 3 miles from my house!

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Stephanie @ AFitBliss.com January 9, 2012 at 1:19 pm

I’ve used Hal Higdon’s half marathon plan and really liked it, however I found that my body likes less days of running, and more miles on the days I do run. Think 3 days a week instead of 5. I think it’s just trial and error though, and figuring out what works for each of our bodies.

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Haute Running Mama January 9, 2012 at 1:39 pm

SUAR’s story hits close to home. Many many prayers!

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Sera Sims January 9, 2012 at 1:54 pm

I have used Hal’s training for both of my half marathons (no full for this girl) and I loved it. I like the mix of running and cross training with strength work. Not sure how great it is for improving time though as I just wanted to make it through without walking.

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lisa January 9, 2012 at 1:56 pm

I pray to win this. Like right now on my knees. Thanks, SR, for the awesome giveaway.

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Lisa @ Yo Momma Runs January 9, 2012 at 1:58 pm

P.S. I liked them on FB.

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Lisa @ Yo Momma Runs January 9, 2012 at 1:57 pm

And I tweeted!

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shelley January 9, 2012 at 2:54 pm

How exciting, I was looking to run the IMS Marathon!! (well the half anyway!!)
I liked on FB and tweeted!

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PJ runs January 9, 2012 at 3:10 pm

I liked Arizona Marathon on FB.

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Andrea @ The MF Dre January 9, 2012 at 3:22 pm

Liked them! I have been looking for a pre-LA Marathon race so Feb would be PERFECT timing!

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Andrea @ The MF Dre January 9, 2012 at 3:23 pm

Also tweeted this out!

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Shauna January 9, 2012 at 3:28 pm

I “liked” IMS Arizona Marathon on facebook….pick me so that i have an excuse to go to AZ!!

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Cass January 9, 2012 at 3:48 pm

I am a liker of IMS AZ Marathon on FB!! It would be a great race to follow-up with after Carlsbad :) Good luck at RnR Zona this weekend!!!

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Runangerun January 9, 2012 at 4:07 pm

I tried following Hal Higdon’s program for Advanced Marathons, and “fired” him after 7 weeks for training for Boston. I hated it! I have run 20 marathons (PR 3:41) and five IronMans, so I think I was safe to assume that running the advanced program would be good. However, I totally disagreed with his thoughts of doing a race pace run on the Saturday, and then the long distance on Sundays and hill work on Wednesdays following Tuesday’s speed work. I felt that it didn’t provide sufficient recovery and I started to feel like I was on the brink of injury. I really tried to make it work, but I had to look after myself and ensure I didn’t get injured. I ended up going back to my old stand-by, Running Room’s 16 week program (www.runningroom.com) and they have a marathon program (paid $69.99), which gave more flexibility for recovery. However, they do the run 10/walk 1, but I would just run straight through for Sunday LSD. I also find running more than 4x/week doesn’t allow me enough time to refresh and recover.

Pete Pfitzinger’s Advanced Marathoning is an interesting read, but I would only recommend it to those who have run for at least 3+ years, as it’s a lot of high mileage. I don’t think it’s suitable for someone who is looking to do their first marathon.

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Sheila January 9, 2012 at 4:27 pm

Good luck on your PR!!
Sent Prayers up for the missing teacher.

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Meghan January 9, 2012 at 4:34 pm

The twinner and I used Higdon’s marathon plan and we loved it. I like having someone else tell me how many miles to run. Good luck SR!

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Julie @ Am I There Yet? January 9, 2012 at 4:47 pm

I used Hal Higdon training for all my half marathons before training for a full. I joined a running club to train for the full marathon and they used a different training method (timed runs over mile building) and I didn’t like it as much. I preferred Hal’s training.

I LOVE Surf City!!! I ran it last year and had a blast! I would do it again this year but I will in in Flordia for the Disney Princess half. But trust, I would rather be back in Huntington Beach. Its a good race! Good Luck!!

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Jeanette January 9, 2012 at 4:57 pm

I liked their Facebook page! I certainly wouldn’t mind beginning the year with a FREE race! :)

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Christie Krompel January 9, 2012 at 5:09 pm

AND if anyone wants to run RnR AZ with YOU… I still have a bib for wicked cheap! :)

Good luck @ all of your upcoming races lady.

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Taylor January 9, 2012 at 5:18 pm

I would LOVE to run the IMS half! I have a goal of 6 halfs (halves?) in 2012 and anywhere I can save some ching, I’m all for it! Thanks!

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Taylor January 9, 2012 at 5:19 pm

Oh and I liked them on facebook… I probably should have said that in the post before! Sorry!

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Brooke January 9, 2012 at 5:50 pm

I liked it on fb, so show me some love! Please?

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Debbie January 9, 2012 at 6:05 pm

Prayers for missing fellow runner Sherry, that she is found safe, and for her family and friends for their heartache and worry at this time. I wish my dog and I could help the search.

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Lisa January 9, 2012 at 6:26 pm

Like Arizona Marathon on fb – would be interested in running that for my third half. Gonna get my second half in this weekend at the Phoenix RnR! :) I’ll email you the plans my Tucson Sole Sisters have for a meet up after the race (after our naps, of course) in case you’re interested.

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Lori January 10, 2012 at 1:42 pm

Good idea Lisa!! Yes, SR, come join the Sole Sisters!!! (I liked on FB also.)

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Kari January 9, 2012 at 6:29 pm

“liked” IMS Arizona Marathon. This would be my first full marathon. I know I’m ready for it–in 2011 I ran 2523 miles and had some pretty legit 1/2 and 5k times–would love to see how I do going 26.2! :D thanks SR!

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Tara January 9, 2012 at 6:47 pm

I liked the Marathon on FB.

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Tara January 9, 2012 at 6:52 pm

Oh, and I posted about it on my wall. :)

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Trouble January 9, 2012 at 6:58 pm

Hey girlie! LOVE your blog! It keeps me motivated! I live in AZ and was going to tell you to run the Lost Dutchman in February but you already have one on the 19th. If you get a chance next year you should do the Lost Dutchman!! Nice course with gorgeous views of the Superstitions. They cap it so it’s not super crazy. I quit doing PF Changs in January and switched to this one because it is more chill.
Thanks again for your blog. I like your humor and style. Don’t let the jerks get you down. You rock!

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Christine January 9, 2012 at 7:40 pm

Liked IMS. Would love an entry. My little sis is running IMS.

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Claire January 9, 2012 at 7:46 pm

I’m 11 weeks into Hal Higdon’s 12 week spring training program (which aims to build speed before embarking on training for a marathon PR attempt), and I’ve really found it has improved my speed out of sight.

I’m planning to use his 18 week advanced 1 program for a May marathon, with a few modifications. Things I like – he uses kms rather than time for length of runs. I’ve decided I really dislike programs that go by time. You need to get enough kms in the legs, and time-based programs have the risk of leaving you short. Things I don’t like – he doesn’t include a long run over 32km/20miles, which I think is a bad idea, so I’m going to do a 34km and a 36km instead of 3 x 32kms. Also, I agree with runangerun’s point about doing a race pace run the day before the long run being a potential problem. However, the race pace is marathon race pace over a maximum of 16 miles, so really it isn’t too taxing, in fact I’ll probably have to concentrate on pulling back to achieve that pace over a relatively short distance. And in any event, I often change the order of workouts to suit me better, tring to always follow a speed session or long run with an easy day.

Essay over. Good luck with your PR attempt.

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Crystal January 9, 2012 at 7:57 pm

Wow, you are a running beast! Good luck with the PR. A marathon is definitely not in my immediate future but its great to always look forward and keep moving ahead!

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Amanda Bonivert January 9, 2012 at 8:36 pm

Liked on FB. Just started reading your blog and love it.

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Meg January 9, 2012 at 9:58 pm

I’m definitely a fan of Hal Higdon, but for such a time-based goal, I’d recommend checking out the book “Advanced Marathoning” by Peter Pfitzinger and Scott Douglas – there’s more training advice for pace goals.

***I “liked” IMS Arizona Marathon on Facebook!

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Meg January 9, 2012 at 10:00 pm

AND I tweeted about the giveaway.

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Andrea January 10, 2012 at 4:51 am

A friend just pointed your blog out to me, and I really like what I see so far!

I liked the IMS on FB.

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Donna January 10, 2012 at 8:16 am

I like them on facebook!

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Kristy Wilson January 10, 2012 at 9:08 am

I “liked” on Facebook. Really hope I win because I live in AZ and love to run!!

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kaitlyn January 10, 2012 at 9:12 am

I liked IMS on facebook and I would love to get out of windy and cold Wyoming and run a semi-warm, low altitude race!

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Brooke January 10, 2012 at 9:39 am

I would love to run this race! I’m not on the Facebooks though, nor do I have a blog. Ergh. Good luck this weekend! I’m sure you will smash your PR.

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Kailey January 10, 2012 at 11:19 am

Ah I will cry if I win! I live in Flagstaff so it would be a short little drive for me. I might still sign up even if I do not win. I liked their page on fb :)

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Lizzie @TheWeekdayVegan January 11, 2012 at 10:03 am

Liked them on FB woot woot! You’re gonna rock the PR, girl

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Amy January 11, 2012 at 11:30 am

I liked IMS on Facebook :)

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Elizabeth @ reads recipes runs January 11, 2012 at 11:41 am

Tweeted!! I want an excuse to go to as many warm places as possible.

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Elizabeth @ reads recipes runs January 11, 2012 at 11:42 am

And I liked them on FB!

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bobbi January 11, 2012 at 12:12 pm

Free is always better! I liked them on fb…

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Lizzy January 11, 2012 at 1:39 pm

I realllllyyyyyy want to run the marathon with you two!!! ahhhh FREEEE entry=best thing ever!
I liked on Facebook!
and I will blog about it!
thank you so much!

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Brittany January 11, 2012 at 3:04 pm

I need to get out of Montana and go on vacation so AZ would be the perfect excuse :) I liked the page on facebook!

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Katherine @ Neon Blonde Runner January 11, 2012 at 4:22 pm

I liked them on facebook!

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Jenn January 11, 2012 at 4:42 pm

I wanna run Arizona!

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Jamie January 11, 2012 at 6:51 pm

I’m already registered for it. If I win, does that mean I get my money back? :)

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beachgirlrunning January 12, 2012 at 3:54 am

Never tried HH’s plan – maybe I should look into it too! Just liked IMS Arizona!! Did RnR Phoenix a couple of years ago – had a BLAST! Have a great time this weekend! Kick butt!

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Rachael January 12, 2012 at 11:54 am

I liked their facebook page! Hope I get to run the 1/2!

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Debra January 12, 2012 at 12:26 pm

I liked IMS on Facebook!

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Cindy January 12, 2012 at 2:06 pm

After a failed PR/BQ attempt in December…this would start my year off right! My dad lives there…would love the excuse to take my entire family to watch me run! I liked IMS on FB.

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Stacey Daly January 12, 2012 at 2:08 pm

I “liked” the AZ Marathon on FB. I would love to try and run the half marathon!

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Cindy January 12, 2012 at 2:08 pm

Oops, I misspelled my email in my last comment!

After a failed PR/BQ attempt in December, this would start my year off right! My dad lives there…would love the excuse to take my entire family to watch me run! I liked IMS on FB.

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Betty January 12, 2012 at 8:29 pm

I’m running my first marathon this weekend at the Arizona RNR!! You have been such an inspiration to me and know you will totally get your PR! :)

I liked the arizona marathon on facebook :)

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lish January 13, 2012 at 6:34 am

I liked the arizona marathon on FB. I would love to run this race and visit that part of the USA! I would probably do the full…however it would be fun to try for a sub 2 half!

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Keren January 13, 2012 at 8:52 am

I liked them on FB!

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Alissa January 13, 2012 at 2:24 pm

Hi! I would love to run in the Arizona Marathon!! Hope it’s not to late enter the giveaway! I live near Phoenix, so not a far drive. Just discovered your blog. I will be reading more often! Good luck this weekend!

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