Get Ready to Run! Half Marathon {Want to Join Me?} + A Discount Code To Sweeten The Deal
I need to be very clear about something right up front. I am not a runner. It’s not a natural desire or thing for me. I try to exercise semi-regularly to support (or maybe that’s offset, not sure) my love of food, but running? Yeah, it’s hard and painful and I kind of tend to glare at people who live, love and breathe running, especially when they run fast and with a smile on their face. I used to run. I think. In another lifetime after college and before having a bunch of little kids running around me but it’s been a while since I’ve run more than, say, a mile or two. Despite all that, I’ve always, always had a half marathon on my bucket list. Even as a non-runner, it kind of calls to me.
So a few months ago, I decided that 2015 is my year. I’m running a half marathon this year if it kills me (and it probably will)!
Here’s the fun part, though. I figured, if I’m going to go to all this effort (training, healthy eating, trying to find the cutest running shoes on the planet, etc.), why don’t I invite you to join me, too? Can you even imagine what fun that would be to run this together? Eeek! It makes me so, so excited!
No matter your running ability, there is time to get ready for this race. I promise. Even if that means you run-slash-walk…or run slowly (hi, that’s me back there running slowly)…or race to the finish for a PR.
Here’s a little extra incentive: I’ve teamed up with the Utah Valley Marathon (voted one of the country’s top 10 races in 2014) and they are giving an exclusive 20% discount to all Mel’s Kitchen Cafe readers! I’m ignoring the fact that I’m willingly signing up to run across a small country (ok, a very small country) and focusing on the positive: free t-shirt. I don’t know about you but I’ll do just about anything for a free t-shirt.
This is just the motivation I need to get my body in shape, my legs to run a little faster (ok, just run), and get my sights on a goal that I’ve had in mind for forever.
Here are the important details:
-The race is Saturday, June 13, right smack dab in one of the most beautiful spots in Utah (Provo Canyon).
-Not only is there a half marathon (the one I’ll be running) but there’s also a full marathon, a 10K and a free kid’s 1K.
–To register, go here and use the code mkc20 for your 20% discount!
I’m not sure who we are or what’s happened to us, but my family has been bitten by the running bug; Brian, Jackson (10) and Walker (9) are officially signed up for the 10K (they’ve been running a couple times a week and the boys are in heaven they get to stay up a bit late to go running with dad), I’m running the half, and all the kids are running the free 1K. And after the race, we are going to spend the rest of the day in a hot tub. Somehow, somewhere.
I know this race may not be in everyone’s neck of the woods (I’ll be driving 5+ hours to get there myself) but if you have a hankering to join in the fun, please comment below and let me know!
I’m thinking very seriously about starting this but I struggle running (shin splints etc) but being there with you might but me over the edge…
Yayyyy very very awesome! I ran my first half a couple of years ago! You will so rock it! I have struggled with running lately so this gets me excited again! I wish I saw this earlier. I’m running the big cottonwood canyon half that same day. I’ll cheer ya on the whole way! You’re awesome. The run/walk/run works! You’ll rock! Cuuute shoes too! So excited for you! Hugs to ya!
Oops sorry about duplicate comment;)
Thanks, Jenny! Good luck to you, too!
Yayyyy very very awesome! I ran my first half a couple of years ago! You will so rock it! I have struggled with running lately so this gets me excited again! I wish I saw this earlier. I’m running the big cottonwood canyon half that same day. I’ll cheer ya on the whole way! You’re awesome. The run/walk/run works! You’ll rock! Cuuute shoes too! So excited for you guys! Hugs to ya!
So, my sisters (one local to Utah and one that will be in town that weekend) are planning to run this, and I’m thinking I might just have to join them! How could I miss out on so many of my favorite things in at one time (my sisters, running, and Mel, of course!) I’m figuring out flights and details this weekend, and I’m so excited!
Fun, Mollie! I’m so excited to hear that!
Hi Mel,
I wish you and all the others the very best of luck. It will be great fun.
You sound just like me 25 years ago. But the fun may cost you a great price in your knees later. My memories are worth a lot to me but the pain reminds me of my foolishness.
I’m a big fan of your blog.
I just signed up. I wasn’t going to because I am running a half marathon in May, but a friend convinced me to run with her.
Awesome!
I’ll check out the 10k with your kids. Yep! I’m a chicken.
I’ve been hankering to walk another Half Marathon, but needed a little nudge! I walked a Half in Durango, Colorado, several years ago and loved it – I also loved training for it. Jody, my bestie from Billings is walking with me. Cannot wait!!
What fun to see your comment, Kathy – I was reading it thinking “I wonder if she’s talking about THE Jody I know from Billings” and sure enough, I saw Jody’s follow-up comment. Can’t wait to see you guys there!
Ok, mom, I’m registered! Mel, thanks for the push. Like so many others, another “Half” has been on my mind. See you all in UT!
Super, Erin! So excited!
I’m in! I think I will try and get Ashley and my daughter in laws to join in. I ran a half many years ago so now it will be walking but fun all the same. It’s good to have a goal, way to go and thanks for the invite.
Fun, Jody! I loved seeing your comment and Kathy’s. Talk Ashley into it!!
Mel, I signed up for the marathon last week. I love to run but start and stop ( love my mtn bike but can’t ride in winter with the snow here in CO) so I started to run ever so slowly over a month ago and am sticking with it. This will be a great goal!
Awesome, JB!
This was the first marathon I ran (last year) and I loved it so much that I am running it again this summer! It is amazingly beautiful!
Hi Mel ~ I am so excited for you! I soooo wish I could come run with you all, but you’re a bit too far from NC. I have to admit I am one of those weirdos that smiles while running 10 miles (sorry). But that was not always the case. I married into a family of runners and had no intentions of becoming one, but started running to lose weight after my first daughter was born. Through the years I have had jags where I run a lot then others where I don’t run at all. I picked it back up a few months ago and feel so much better. It’s hard and not pleasant at first, but it does eventually get easier and much more enjoyable.
I would like to offer a few tips in response to some comments above: (1) Good running shoes will make all the difference. Knees should not hurt. Running does not damage the knee ~ in fact, it builds and strengthens the knee in response just the same as muscle does. If the knees hurt, then it means you have the wrong shoes or you’re training too hard for where you are. You may want to check out Roadrunnersports.com. (I am in no way connected ~ I just get my shoes there.) They have a fantastic 90 day return policy for VIP members. You can run in a shoe for 90 days and return them if they don’t work for you. I usually have to run in new shoes a week or two to know if they work for me.
(2) Ladies – get a good “high-impact” running bra. Your girls will appreciate it later.
(3) You’re never too old to start. My father-in-law started running at 53 ~ and ran several marathons! He is 88 now and can still trot around the driveway circle. And takes no medication.
Wishing you all good luck and a great race! I’ll be cheering you on in prayer.
Thank you so much for chiming in, Nancy! Love the suggestions and am so impressed about your father in law starting to run at 53. Gives me hope I can do this!
I wish I could do this just so I could meet you. But my kids’ school goes all the way until June 12th in California so there is no way we could make it in time. Another race maybe….
I might be a little late, but I’ve decide to run it with you Mel! I”m one of your secret admirers that doesn’t comment much but feel like you are one of my best friends since you grace us with you present so often at dinner. “Oh, is this one Mel’s?” or “I love when Mel joins us for dinner.” is often spoken around the dinner table 🙂 As for the half marathon goes, I had a goal to run on this year as well. I ran my first two years ago and it was so exhilarating, but I was 9 weeks pregnant at the time. I’m excited to see what I can do when just running for one this year. 🙂
How cool that your entire family will be running in a marathon! 🙂
Hey everyone! In the event you are checking this thread, I’ve created a separate (temporary) section of my website for posting updates for half-marathon things (and running in general). These posts won’t show up on my main website (let’s be serious, we don’t want to clutter up all the good food coming up) but they’ll all be housed right here: http://www.melskitchencafe.com/race-training/
There’ll be a good mix of “help me, I’m dying and need you to tell me I can do this” posts along with motivational experiences from others, training schedules, what to eat while training, details on a meet-up if you are going to be running the Utah Valley race, etc. I’m excited about the great response to this so let’s inspire each other, ok?
I’ve been thinking I need to sign up for some kinda race – keeps you committed to running if you have a race you don’t want to die in. 🙂 I haven’t checked the comments to see if anyone else has said anything regarding this, but DON’T find a hot tub post race! even during training you may want to consider an ice bath instead. You don’t need to actually have ice in it. A bathtub full of cold tap will be fantastic. Just your lower body will need it. 20 minutes. You won’t be sorry! I’ve run a full marathon and I was able to walk the next day because I did this. Husband’s advice, and he’s an athletic trainer. I may very well sign up for this one! I’ve given myself 6 months to release 20-25 pounds, so the timing of that race is pretty much ideal. Thanks for the discount!
Thanks for the icy tip, Rachael!
Good Luck!! What an awesome goal you can totally do it. My family had the goal last year we started training in January after my dad had a rough year of fighting cancer… he needed a big goal to help him get well. So all of his children and most spouses some grandchildren, my mother and some friends all ran our first 1/2 together. It was awesome and the best to do it as a family. Go! Fight! Win! We did the AF half and I hear the Utah Valley is just as good.
That’s so inspiring – I hope all is well with your dad! Thanks for sharing your experience. I love the idea of doing it with family (hint, hint to all of mine!!).
That is awesome Mel!! You will be hooked once you finish! I did the Fargo Half last year and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life! Well, besides giving birth…I had planned to run the Fargo full this year,but have been dealing with a knee injury since November. 🙁 Boo.
Good luck!
I am planning on running my first half this year also! Mine is in September. If you want to do another in Utah county it’s the Nebo half. All downhill. I would do the Provo, but I want my first one to be Nebo because we live right next to the mouth of the canyon.
Awww! I’m a bit jealous to be honest! I am due exactly the the race is. I can’t run right now because it is so uncomfortable. You’re going to love it. It’s a love/hate relationship with running. You may not love it while you’re doing it, but when you get done you’ll be amazed at what you can do (even though the entire time you were doing it your brain and body kept telling you that you couldn’t do it). I wish you the best of luck. Run Strong. If you need a good training plan, I love runner’s world smart coach (the free version works awesome). You can set it up to your own specifications and determine how difficult of a plan you want, what day you want your long run, etc. Best of luck.
I’m so proud of you for taking on the half marathon! You’ll love it, especially if you find some running buds to do your long runs with. And I have to say it has been brought up on many occasions when I’m with my sisters (who are also fans of your blog) as to how you are such a good cook and you’re skinny! Seriously! You are beautiful and thin and I’d never guess you have five kids. You’re gonna rock the race! Wish I could be there.
Thanks, Mel. I haven’t told you but you totally inspire me when it comes to running (the fact that you get up at 5 a.m. to do so and are so dedicated to it). I wish we could run together! Except not because I would slow you down big time. Just know you’ve been a HUGE inspiration to me!
Im with you, I hate running. Like really hate running. That being said, I wish we could go to Utah, but I dont think thats in the cards for us. Although, my boys and I have signed up for the 5k Foam Glow Chicago. We are super excited and I have from now till September to figure out how Im going to do this. They also want to run the Beast Boot Camp 5k that involves military exercise checkpoints along with running. Seriously. But proceits go to local veterans so we will probably sign up for that form of torture too. I hear they have pizza afterwards…
Awesome! My baking love only works when I offset it with running…. if that’s possible 🙂 I like to imagine that it is. The Provo canyon truly is beautiful. I miss it dearly. I have newly diagnosed lupus, which includes arthritis. But…. I LOVE running. Nothing makes me feel better. Getting started is painful and takes discipline, but it is worth it. As a mom of 3 under 4 it does my mind and body wonders. Thanks for your post and motivation to get active and reach your goal. Our bodies deserve it.
Before having kids I did 2 full marathons and a handful of halfs. Which means I haven’t done a race in 5 years, but with your push, I will this year! I’ll be signing up for the top of Utah half so I can be closer to home. Good luck!
Hey Marci – a friend of mine is trying to convince me to run the half at Top of Utah, too..we’ll see but I’ll let you know if I do! Would love to meet you and say hi.
Perfect! Then you can spend your recovery time in my kitchen helping me figure out my struggles with the wheat bread recipe that I love. I’ll hire a masseuse for while the bread is rising 😉
I’ll be there! It’s going to be amazing! Running has been such a blessing in my life. It’s helped me not only with my physical health, but in all areas of life. Having a race goal can be very motivating and so satisfying. Best wishes on your goal for 2015! See you there!
Hooray, Becca!
Thank you for the promo code! I have been non-committal until now, just signed up! Not sure why we pay to run…but as they said, “pain we enjoy”?
Seriously, Tiffany! I’m not to the pain I enjoy part but hopefully I’ll get there. I’m so excited you signed up!
Since you’ll be driving through Salt Lake you should stop at Oh Mai (3425 S. State Street) or Mai Bun Mee (850 S. State Street) for banh mi. You won’t regret it, unless you go right before the race.
I love you for this, Julia!
YES PLEASE!
Sorry you hate runners who love to run. I used to hate it too, then something happens, you get brainwashed, and you enjoy it.
The race is in my hometown, signing up now!
Oh, no, I don’t hate runners who love to run – I’m just really envious. 🙂 And not always graciously. So excited you are signing up, Bri!
Mel, I will SO be there! In fact, I had the Utah Valley Marathon down as one of the marathons I will be doing this year in an effort to break four hours for the first time. I always knew there was a reason why I was delaying actually registering, and I now I finally know why: I was waiting for your promo code. Thank you!! I will be doing the marathon, but I sure hope to meet you!!
And here I am, hoping I can finish the half in four hours. Kidding. Kind of. I’m so happy you’ll be there, Bethany! Let’s for sure try to meet up. I’ll get something in the works for anyone who is interested!
I am running a half in a few weeks here in AZ. I love running races and triathlons so I will be cheering everyone on. There is a chance I will run this one. I have lots of family in Utah and I am always visiting. Good luck with your training! You will do amazing!
Mel – I am so excited for you! This is awesome!! I ran my fist half marathon just a few months ago in October. I still can’t believe I did it! Coming across the finish line (even way back at the back of the pack when I did) was so rewarding, and so worth all the training. I never imagined I would run, never wanted to when I was younger, but have to admit I have found a love for it in the last couple years. Now, with the big 40 this year, my goal is to run 4 in 2015 – one for each of my 4 decades of life. Haha!! I wish I lived closer, cause I would so be there with you!! You totally got this, and will be so glad you did it, and can check it off the bucketlist! -carrie
Carrie – I wish you could come out and run with me! I remember our good ol’ days in Salt Lake exercise walking late at night (remember you going on that long walk in flip flops? I remember thinking you were so die-hard). I’m proud of you and your half marathons! I only have a few years until 40 and I like that goal of doing 4 the year I turn the big 4-0! Miss you!
Wow! There are a lot of comments! I’m sure you’ve thought of this, but just in case, make sure you’re mentally prepared for the change in elevation from training in Idaho to racing in Utah. It is surprisingly harder to run at higher elevations after training at lower ones. Either way, you’ll do great! Good for you for setting a big goal. If you lived closer (I’m in Eagle), I would train with you!
Also, I recommend documenting your training on your blog. I did that when I trained for my first marathon and it was very motivating to be accountable to the world wide web (and I only had about 15 people following me!). Plus, it’s fun to look back and see all that you accomplished. Have a great time! Races are addictive. 🙂
Thanks, Natalie! That’s a good idea to document it!
So, I ran a half marathon a few years ago and it was great, but then I totally quit running. Not sure if I will have enough motivation to actually run this with you, but if not, I totally want to come cheer you on! It would be awesome to meet the famous (in our house you are famouse) Mel!!
Thanks, Jen! You let me know if you get up the gumption to enter, either way, we’ll meet up for sure; promise!
You’re going to love it Mel! REALLY, there is nothing like crossing the finish line of your first half/full marathon! Hard? Yes. Exhilerating? Yes. Addicting? YES! I ran my first half in September 2013, and ran my sixth in October 2014. Thanks for the coupon code, I don’t like to repeat runs and I haven’t run the Utah Valley half, so this will be a perfect run to add to the 2015 calendar! You can do it!
Thanks, Heather! I’m excited you’ll be running this one, too. I love knowing there will be others out there on that course, even if I don’t see them – just the energy will help me get through!
Goooooo, Mel! I broke my ankle 1 week before running my first half a few years back. Was discouraged for about a minute. 🙂 I love running, cross training, and decided right then and there that I would not sign-up for another race again. Too much pressure–I am super calm, generally, but I realized training made me a nervous wreck! I live in beautiful southwestern Ohio and there are so many great places to run, so I get to run a lot of personal “races”. Hope you and yours have a great race and most importantly, have fun training!! 🙂
This post makes me happy for so many reasons! I used to be a hater when it came to running, but I experienced a transformation a few years ago. I had baby #4 in June and did an olympic length triathlon in Oct. It was an interesting experience and I just haven’t had the motivation to get back into a regular exercise routine since then. I like my sleep to much. But maybe this is the motivation I need. There is a good chance I will be joining you! I love the half marathon length. I’ve never done a full marathon, but I have enjoyed every half I’ve done. It’s just the right amount of time to be running to be really fun. It’s challenging but not deathly so, and the time commitment for training is doable. so I’m excited for you!
Some advice that you totally didn’t ask for – Read up on proper running technique and form. I never knew there was such a thing until a few years ago. I alwasy thought you just go out and move your feet, one in front of the other. But I hated it. Then I found out that there is proper form and technique and once I started using it it literally changed my world. I fell in love with running. I am certain you will enjoy it so much more and you will avoid injury if you run the right way.
If you are interested you can check out https://thereaderssalon.wordpress.com/2015/01/10/born-to-run-2/ for more of my running story and for one of the inspirations for my love affair with running. But don’t confuse good form and proper techniqe with barefoot running. I run with Altra’s which give me good cushion but “zero drop” which allows me to keep proper form and technique more easily, but no matter what shoes you run in (barefoot, traditional, minimalist, or whatever) the principles of proper form and technique remain the same. And it has made all the difference for me.
Thanks for the tips, Nicole! I’ll definitely do some research on that.
I will be in Utah this summer but two weeks too late for the Provo race. I’m currently training for my third half marathon, which I’ll be running in April. I totally understand running for the free shirt – I did for the Baltimore half this fall because their race shirts are amazing! Good luck with your training Mel!
Good luck on your half marathon, Sarah!
I first read your post when I woke up this morning and have been thinking about it all day. I keep going back and forth. I really want to say I’m in… but I don’t know. This is actually something I have always wanted to do… right up until the time I start trying to train and then I think, “I hate running, why am I doing this.” Every year I look into the St. Luke’s FitOne run in boise but then chicken out. Have you ever looked at that one? I’ve heard it’s a lot of fun. Anyway, I should go for it. If anyone could inspire me you could. My 10 year old did tell me a couple of months ago though that he wants to run a half marathon someday, maybe he and I could do it together… OK, that decides it. I’m in!!! Would you send me your training schedule and tips if I promise not to hold you responsible?
Hey Jackie – I’ve been a running hater, too, but am determined to conquer my fear this time. I haven’t looked into that run in Boise since we’ve only been here a few months but I probably should look into a couple local races (maybe a 10K or something) along the training way. I would be so excited if you decided to go for this! I don’t know if people really believe me but honestly, if I can do this, I really truly believe anyone can. Now granted, I haven’t ACTUALLY done it yet, but I’m committed and determined. I’ll put a link in the comments here with the training schedule I’m using later today!
Would love to join you but my brother-in-law is getting married in TX that weekend. I grew up in Utah and miss the beautiful mountains (now living in WA). My husband and I ran a Ragnar in Utah a couple years ago and it was beautiful. Ragnar races are totally fun too! CRAZY 2 days but so much fun! Good luck! Never done a 1/2 marathon (but have completed that many miles + in a Ragnar). You’ll rock it!
I’m willing to join you in the challenge but will have to find a half marathon in Michigan. I’ve never run more than a 5k but have always wanted to try! Thanks for motivating me!
Awesome, Rachel! A half marathon in Michigan or Utah is still an awesome goal and I’m excited you’ll be doing it too!
Mel,
I’m running my first half this year too. I’m running the Rock n Roll DC half on March 14! I just ran 8 miles tonight as part of my training. Awesome! Can’t wait to hear more about your training. Wish I could run with you, but it’s too far away! Good Luck!
My husband is running that one too! Congratulations on your 8; that’s awesome!
You are awesome, Laura! I can only dream of 8 miles right now! 🙂
Good luck! Running is addicting. I am joining you this year….just not at the Utah one. I am planning on doing the Famous Potato one in Boise on May 30th. 🙂 Hopefully a few more this year, we will see! There are lots of great half marathons around here. Love your shoes too!!
Hey Marne! I was thinking I should look into a few races here in the area. I should come cheer you on May 30th!
I’m in. I am just now getting motivated to get in shape, and this will be good motivation. I have never run before, except when we had to run our mile in gym. I will need to start training now, as this will also be my very first race. As long as I will have support there, and can run with some of y’all. I’m in. YAY!
So happy to hear that Kim! I agree that I need every bit of time between now and then to train for this but I think 20 weeks is more than doable to build mileage and strength. We can do this!
I’m too far away (suffering over here in Honolulu, to be exact 🙂 but if I lived closer, we’d be friends. You are awesome! I wanted to run a half marathon last year, but settled for a blacklight 5K… But you can do this!!!
Actually, Kristen, I kind of wish I was running a race in Hawaii. That would probably make my life complete.
Good for you! You can do it, Mel! I ran my first half marathon at age 45 in October. I placed 3rd in my age group! I would love to do this one with you, but it’s a little far away for me….I’m in NC! But I will be supporting and encouraging you across the miles. You got this, girl!
Lisa, you amazing woman, you! You are inspiring and I love that you ran your first half at 45!
Man, after running my first half last year in Ogden, this has been my next oone to do. But with baby 4 due in August, I might could do a 5k? Would that still count? I’d love to meet you as like many others who’ve commented, you are well known at our table!! Way to be motivated for something new and exciting. I got into running by doing a Ragnar years ago. Try one sometime, super fun 🙂
Oh my gosh, ANYTHING counts! 5K, 10K, half! We’ll definitely meet up if you are down that way!
One word: Audiobooks. They took me from a person who hates to run to a person who’s okay with running. A small miracle for me! Most libraries have a good selection of audiobooks you can download. Good stuff!
Ok, Theresa, your comment was divine timing. Earlier this week I thought “hmm, maybe I should get a free credit at audible and try listening to a book while I run” but then second guessed myself because I didn’t know if it would keep me motivated (would I just stop, sit down on the curb and listen to my book?), then I read your comment and decided to do it. This morning I ran 4 miles (very, very slowly) listening to a book on audible and I can honestly say, I think that may be the thing that gets me through this training. Thank you!
Mel –
Check your local library before paying for Audible. My library has audiobooks (even new releases) you can check out and download from their website. They also have these little self-contained audiobooks about the size of a lighter that you can check out and plug your headphones right into. Those would be perfect for running or walking (and free!).
Oh, great tips, Lisa! I haven’t had to pay for audible yet – still on my free credit but I’ll be sure to check out my library before I do!
The book that really got me started on the audiobooks while running was “Unbroken”. It was so gripping, I would forget I was running. I highly recommend it! If you need more recommendations, I’m full of them! We’re big readers at our house.
Mel – way to go! In another life I ran half marathons – my favorite was Park City’s full marathon that my husband and I split. We’ve also run the Ogden and SLC but no doubt you are in for a treat with the UV half. June 13th is my birthday so I will be thinking of you and cheering for you but I think my birthday present to myself will be something other than running a half! :o)
I’ll wish you a happy birthday in my heart that day, Holly! 🙂
Thanks for sharing the discount code! I used to live in Cache Valley and love to go back each fall to run the Top of Utah Half. I live in Utah County now and this race looks great – plus I love that it’s in June rather than the end of August. It’d be fun to meet you there. We’re on a first name basis with you here at our house. “yummy recipe dear, is it new?” “yep – it’s one of Mel’s” 🙂
Haha! Thanks, Jennie! I’m hoping the weather is more mild than the heat of August. I’d love to meet up with you if you run it! Keep me posted!