Steve Moneghetti’s guide to conquering the 2018 Herald Sun/CityLink Run for the Kids

IN THE first of nine articles, Steve Moneghetti guides you through training for the 2018 Herald Sun/CityLink Run for the Kids event on Sunday, March 18.

WELCOME to the first of nine training articles to help you prepare for the 2018 Herald Sun /CityLink Run for the Kids event to be held on Sunday, March 18.

HERALD SUN/CITY LINK RUN FOR THE KIDS 2017: PICTURES, VIDEO

As an encouragement to get you involved, I want to remind you that over half of your entry fee and a percentage of the merchandise sales goes directly to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

There are two great courses to choose from: a 15.3km super course that goes through the Domain Tunnel and over the Bolte Bridge then back via Docklands and the CBD; and a family-friendly 5km short course.

The choice is yours, but I reckon the long course is one of the best runs in Australia and I really do encourage you to give it a go.

Many people ask me how I got out of bed early on cold, wintry mornings to train, but I was always running with a purpose such as going to an Olympic or Commonwealth Games. Your reason might be emotional, physical or social. Whatever the reason, it is my role to support you along the way.

Steve Moneghetti in last year’s Run for the kids. Picture: Sarah Matray

To get you started, I have set a very gentle introduction to running this first week.

It will stay that way next week as well before I will separate the program into two different programs: one for the longer course, and one modified for the short course.

If you are new to running or just starting to exercise again, then I suggest that you tackle the short course; whereas if you are a regular runner or walker, then continue on with your own program and merge it with mine as the event nears.

I always tell people that the first training session is a visit to your local GP to make sure you are in good physical health.

Hopefully, many of you see the event as an opportunity to make a positive lifestyle change that will benefit you not only in the short term but also possibly for many years to come.

I know lots of groups, such as work colleagues or family and friends, will regroup to share the experience Run for the Kids provides. The group training effect helps to keep up motivation.

Make sure you begin very slowly as the training is a bit like a marathon. Remember: the race isn’t won in the first kilometre or the first week but by consistent running and walking over the whole distance and the whole program. Now it is time to hit the ground running.

Week One January 14-20

SUNDAY 10min walk (1km)

MONDAY Rest

TUESDAY 5min walk, plus 5min of 1min jog and 1min walk, plus 5min walk

WEDNSDAY Rest

THURSDAY Rest

FRIDAY 10min walk (1km)

SATURDAY Rest