Training for the Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon | A Run-Walk Journey at 46
This week reminded me that consistency matters more than perfection. Between work, family schedules, long drives, and swim meets, running has become my daily anchor here in Magnolia, Texas. As I train for the Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon (March 2026-Grosse Ile Michigan), I’m leaning heavily on the run-walk method, Garmin’s training plan, and simply showing up, even when I don’t want to.
Tuesday — Building Consistency With Drill Workouts
Tuesday night started with a solid drill workout. Nothing flashy—just putting in the reps.
I’ve also committed to walking one mile outdoors daily on non-run days, a habit that keeps me moving and supports long-term endurance training.
Thursday — Showing Up Even When Motivation Is Low
Thursday’s drill workout was another small win. I really didn’t want to do it—but once I got outside, it turned into a smooth, productive session. No rain, no weather excuses, just getting it done.
Friday — A Long Day, a Late Night, but Still Moving
Friday was rough from start to finish.
A stressful afternoon.
Heavy Houston traffic.
A long high school swim meet in The Woodlands.
Picked up Thai food on the way home.
By the time I got back, running felt like the last thing I had energy for. But I changed clothes, headed out the door, and knocked out my drill workout before dinner. Those nights—where you overcome everything stacked against you—are the ones that build real momentum.
Saturday — Four-Mile Run (Garmin’s Not Playing Around)
Saturday was my longest run yet on this return journey: four miles.
Garmin’s training plan escalated fast:
- Week 1: 1 mile
- Week 2: 2 miles
- Week 3: 4 miles
I started with a 3 min run / 1 min walk plan, but eventually settled into 2 min run / 1 min walk, with an occasional 1.5-minute walk break when I needed it.
How the Miles Felt
Miles 1–2: Pretty smooth. Felt strong.
Mile 3: Small inclines made things tougher—new runners always feel those.
Mile 4: Asthma flared up hard. Lots of coughing. But I pushed through.
The highlight of the run? Passing a group of deer on a beautiful afternoon. It was one of those calm moments that reminds you why running is special.
Total Distance:
5.11 miles, and a satisfying post-run soreness.
Coming Up — The “Magic Half Mile”
Next week’s plan introduces something new:
The Magic Half Mile
It’s the last half mile of the run, done at a “comfortably hard” pace. Not reckless—just a chance to push myself smartly. I’m looking forward to it.
Rock CF Fundraiser — A Moment of Gratitude
This week, someone donated to my Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon fundraiser, and it meant a lot. It’s humbling when someone supports a cause they believe in, especially when they don’t know you personally.
If you’d like to support individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis, here’s the link to my fundraiser:
👉 https://runsignup.com/run4breath
Every contribution supports Rock CF—and genuinely lifts me up during this running journey.
Final Thoughts — Progress Over Perfection
I stayed consistent.
I built mileage.
I kept showing up, even on tough days.
If you’re returning to running—especially in your 40s or 50s—remember this: You don’t need perfect days. You need consistent ones.
