by Military Diva
I am going to write it and say it out loud…I Do Not Like to Run!
But I love running Disney! And I love a personal challenge. Which is why I love the idea of following a runDisney training plan. There is a huge thrill that comes with meeting a weekly goal or scratching off another week. It means you’re succeeding, you’re progressing and you’re one week closer to Disney!
Throughout the year, runDisney offers a total of 9 race weekends. They are held in Disney World, Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and even on Castaway Cay. This year a virtual race series was also introduced. Through these races you can choose to run as an athlete, a princess or even a superhero. Pick a race and register as early as you can, preferably on the first day of open registration!
runDisney Official Event Guide Disney Marathon Weekend 2013
***Open an active.com account and log-in before registration on race day to speed the process.
*** Also be prepared for the fees associated with registration and have a credit/debit card available to cover the expense.
Now to the dreaded T-TRAINING!
RunDisney officially endorses Jeff Galloway’s training plans. This program is great for any runner, from beginner to advanced. Most people focus on his interval style of running, which is excellent for building endurance and preventing injury. Thanks to the Galloway Plan I have learned the difference between feeling dehydrated, needing fuel and feeling the approach of the dreaded self-defeat. I know when to push through and when to back off; when to sprint and when to walk.
There is no shame in any of these scenarios. In fact, there should be pride and joy.
Each and every one of you have the ability to train and compete in a runDisney event. Whether it be a 5k or a Dopey challenge the course is full of amazing individuals that will walk, sprint and roll their wheelchairs across the finish line. With the proper training you can do it too!!
Goal #1-Choose a training plan. Check!
You know your body and best. Do some research and find a training plan that you can work with. (There are many available.) Then change it up to meet your goal!
Princess Half training plan.
Customize your plan to meet your needs!
I am currently using a modified version of the Galloway plan. Since I am pushing to run this year’s half marathon without intervals I wanted to have more manageable distance jumps from week to week.
Goal #2-Get your plan organized. Check!
Accountability is key to success for long running events. Organize your plan in the way that will be most convenient for you to access. Track on a smartphone, fitness tracker or paper/pen. Keep notes on your run times, distance and even how you are feeling.
*** We have been having especially humid days here. I note that on my training. When feeling defeated I am able to look back and see that my best runs were completed in ideal running conditions. I can’t control the weather and shouldn’t let it get me down. Hot humid weather does slow the pace!
Take notes on anything that impacted your training, good or bad.
Goal #3-Moniter your timeline. Check!
Be sure the training plan you choose coordinates with the race schedule. You don’t want to start an 18 week plan in July for a February event. You will be left with two to three months open at the end of the training. Instead, start the training earlier and run it twice. Or, spread the 18 week plan out to match your race day.
Goal #4-Hydrate and fuel. Check!
This is such an important step in any physical training. Drink all you can in the day or so before your run, take small sips while running and rehydrate when finished. As for fuel, maintain a healthy diet and find an energy supplement that works for you on your long runs. Many prefer supplements and energy bars while others can pop Swedish Fish.
Do not ignore this step or minimize your body’s cues. Sore muscles, lack of breath, dizziness and injury may result.
I have to say that nothing about the training is easy. But it is satisfying in so many ways…you will see a definite improvement in your health, confidence and happiness (thank you endorphins!). And if you do it right you will be able to run through the Disney Parks and smile your way to the finish line.
Get organized, get hydrated and get training.
You know you want a medal too!
So tell me, is your runDisney training on track?
Comment below and let me know where you are in your training or share photos of your running achievements. And remember, the race is more about dedication to the training than the finish time at any race.
Happy Training!
Looking for more great tips to help you prepare for your next runDisney race? Check out these articles below!
The Castaway Cay 5k: A runDisney Race in Paradise
A Journey through runDisney’s Star Wars Dark Side Challenge
Sweaty Bands Review: The Perfect Thing for Your Next runDisney Race!
runDisney Princess 1/2 Marathon Weekend Video Tips!
runDisney Kids’ Races Tips and Rundown
runDisney Heroes: Who Will You Run for?
Flying for Your runDisney Vacation? A Carry on is a Must!
Ask a Disney Diva: runDisney Questions
Why I Walked runDisney Coast to Coast
The runDisney Pixie Dust Challenge
runDisney Tips for First Timers
Top 10 Reasons You Should Participate in a runDisney Race
runDisney Race Tips for Beginners
Hi! I’m running the 31k challenge at Disneyland Paris this September. Do you have a recommended training plan?
Good morning Alyssa. Congratulations on selecting such an amazing challenge. Since I am not aware of your fitness level I would recommend searching Jeff Galloway’s training plans. I know many runners that complete the runDisney challenges using his plans. If you’re new to running the intervals are a great help. If you’re a seasoned runner, follow the distance recommendations for training but run at your own pace. I haven’t found specifics for the Disneyland races, but you can visit the runDisney training page and click on Fairy Tale challenge. You will have to adjust the calendar for your race dates, but the training distances will work well! ( https://www.rundisney.com/training/#disneyworld-marathon) Good luck and keep us posted on your progress!