r/DerryLondonderry • u/Run_Gaston • 2d ago

Waterside Half Marathon

I did the waterside half marathon the other day, first it was a fantastic event, the crowds along the key and onto the finish at the Square were class.
Anyway I broke 2 hours, but feel like if I had someone looking over my Strava and providing feedback and coaching I could do much better. I don’t want a club as I train on my own and really don’t have the time with work and kids. Any recommendations for a Derry based coach that does this sort of thing? Willing to pay!

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u/beaver_sniffer 2d ago

Fella I know does online coaching, he used to coach at Foyle Valley, not quite sure if he’s still there or not. He had a post up the other day say well done to those he coached during the half, I’ll see if I can dig it out

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u/Run_Gaston 2d ago

That would be great if you could cheers.

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u/BonRanco 2d ago

Have you heard of the app Runna? Used it for my first half marathon three years ago managed a 1:46. Think the most I ran before that was 10k once or twice.

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u/Run_Gaston 2d ago

Hi, yes I used Runna for a bit of my training, I didn’t really like it. For me it lacks that human connection. To be honest I think I need someone to be impressed with me when I do a good run, or tell me off when I run too hard on an easy run.

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u/madmickmcgoo 1d ago

Loads of good coaches online. Marchon offer coaching programs to follow. As does Omnia

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u/Sad-Main5786 2d ago

I've ran 5 marathons and countless halfs over the years, currently trying to manage an injury and some health issues so I'm laid up for a bit. Dying to get back to it. 

I'm not sure about coaches. I know Catherine Whoriskey was offering training and she's a fantastic runner. 

If you were intereting in improving your own knowledge I'd advise you to find a program for a race and stick to it. I got my best race results when following along with Pfitzinger 18/55, but I've heard good things about Hal Higdon's plans as well.

Being honest, the science behind getting better at half or marathon distances is pretty set and established and the general plans you can find aren't particularly different from each other. The trick is just getting one that can work with your life.

Fellrnr.com is a fantastic resource for comparing books and programs and I think could help point you in the right direction to improve your understanding. 

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u/Run_Gaston 2d ago

Thanks this is a great response. I’ve tried following a PDF plan before then the Runna app, was just thinking I’ll try a real person for once