Training Suggestions / DC Walker

I am participating in the DC walk in May 2012 (first timer) and I was wondering when everyone starts training.  I'm a runner, but I understand that walking 39 miles is a little different.  I know there is an outline/guideline on the Avon Walk website for training suggestions, but I would like input from some of the veteran walkers.

 

Thanks.  Tina

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Permalink Reply by Sharon Staples on November 3, 2011 at 4:18pm

Hi Tina - There is a great training guide right here on the Avon site that I have used the last two years and it's right one! On the DC home page click on "training" and then "training plans". It lets you choose anywhere from 12 weeks out to 24 weeks out. I used the 24 week, which by the way would start about Nov 19th ish. It's never too early to start. Don't know where you live (I'm in Gaithersburg) but when it gets really cold you'll see a bunch of us walking Mont. Mall starting in January.

And I've been told it is harder walking than running because it taking so much longer you really need to keep your energy up.

Sharon

 

Permalink Reply by Tina M. Cole on November 3, 2011 at 7:47pm

Thanks for the info.  I'll certainly try the 24 week plan.  I have heard that walking is certainly different than running so I guess I should start walking soon.  

 

I'm in Frederick and I have a safe route to run, so I'll probably use the same route to walk.  Walking through the mall is a good idea so I might try that as well.  

 

You said that you've participated in the Avon Walk for the last two years.  Did you walk the entire 39.3 miles?  How long did it take you to walk each day?

 

Thanks again for your input.

 

Tina

Permalink Reply by Sharon Staples on November 4, 2011 at 9:19am

That fact that you are walking and have committed yourself to raise $1,800 is HUGE! Remember that.

Everyone has their own goals. Mine is/was to take it all in so I only train for 26 miles (13 each day) If you are planning to do the whole 39 you don't have as much time to hang around. Some of the rest stops may take you about 1/2 hour by the time you wait in line for the Johns, water and snacks. It is a real shame to miss any of that because the Crew decorates the rest stops. It's a lot of fun and you don't want to miss that. Day one I actually did about 16 miles and got back to "tent city" about 2 -3 ish. I took a shower without there being a line and was able to relax and cheer everyone else in. Remember the walk is not about killing yourself!

Permalink Reply by Amy Deane on November 11, 2011 at 8:40am

Sharon, I'm a first time walker and in Gaithersburg too.  Would love to do some training with a veteran.

Permalink Reply by Sharon Staples on November 11, 2011 at 10:32am

Cool! Email me at ks90sas@verizon.net. and let me know where you are in your training. It is so much more fun AND safe not walking alone!

 

Permalink Reply by Lisa Winston Wilentz on January 17, 2012 at 9:31pm

Hi Sharon ... 

I'm also a first-time walker, and have started the website's "16-week out" program today (got back from out of town last night, unfortunately also took a massive spill trying to catch the airport shuttle LOL but still limped through my three miles!)

I'd love to join the local group that does the Montgomery Mall walk, at least part of the time (I'm in MV) ... I had figured I'd do Lakeforest since it's closer to me (and when I get to the longer weekend walks, I can actually count the three miles there/three miles back as part of the distance) but prefer Montgomery, especially since I worked there part-time during the holidays. 

I also saw that there is a group that does outdoor walks to train at Seneca Creek that I hope to get in touch with ... 

I figure there are only so many times around my "circle" (half-mile around) I can do without going totally crazy from boredom!

Thanks, and I look forward to meeting many of the DC-area participants, veterans and newcomers, on Feb. 4 in DC!!!

Lisa

Permalink Reply by Sharon Staples on January 18, 2012 at 10:31am

Send me your email address and I'll email you privately :-) ks90sas@verizon.net

Permalink Reply by Beccie Price on November 21, 2011 at 1:24am

I have tried to follow those training schedules.  But, life keeps interferring!  I more or less train year round.  I walk five miles 2-3 days a week.  After Sept., I try to up my distance by at least one mile per week.  My goal is to walk 18 miles one time during Thanksgiving week, 22 miles Christmas week, and 25 miles Spring Break.  This will be my third walk in Houston, which is in April.  I try to follow that schedule, but if I get a week or so off, I don't worry much.  The first year, I was obsessive about staying on schedule, but I have learned to be more flexible.  The first year I walked 26 miles, twice, just to be sure I could do it!  I know now that if I can walk 22 miles Spring Break, I can walk 26 miles at the Houston Walk.  I hope this helps you.  I must say that the Avon Walk, outside of my family and church, has been the best experience of my life!  I hope you find it so for you.

 

Permalink Reply by Tina M. Cole on November 21, 2011 at 6:44am

Thank you Beccie.  I really appreciate your comments.  I am trying to follow the 24 week training program now, but like you said, everything else is getting in the way.  I know I have to train, but I also know that I need to relax about the actual program.  I like your ideas and I'll probably incorporate those same ideas into my program.  

 

Thanks again.  Happy Thanksgiving.

 

Permalink Reply by Amy Blaylock on December 29, 2011 at 2:13pm

I live in Frederick County too.  I was wondering if there were any groups organized for training walks.  This is my first time...any information is much appreciated!

Permalink Reply by Tina M. Cole on December 30, 2011 at 5:27am

Amy,

I'm not aware of any organized training walks.  Lori Keeney and I are going to train together if you want to join us.  We've only trained together once, but it was nice to have some company.  We walked around Baker Park which is always a nice stroll.  

If you interested in joining us, send me an e-mail and we'll coordinate.  My e-mail address is tmbcole@aol.com . . . . please put training walk in the subject line.

Happy New Year.  

Permalink Reply by Amy Blaylock on December 30, 2011 at 10:24pm

I sent you an email :)

Thanks! 

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