Hardest part of training...choosing a training plan!

I thought registering and committing to run a 1/2 marathon would be intimidating, that's until I started trying to decide what training program to use.

I'm stuck in a weird running place - not quite a beginner, but not yet intermediate.  Most of the beginner plans are too "easy", not challenging enough.  However, I am definitely not up to the mileage needed for the intermediate plans.

I looked into the usual suspects ~ Jeff Galloway & Hal Higdon.  Both programs are extremely successful, but neither really fits "me".  I tried to blend both together, taking what I liked from both - I just made a big giant training mess.

Finally, I came across a plan that caught my eye, mostly because it had fun color coding and cute fonts (what can I say - I'm THAT girl).  

The plan was published by Self Magazine.  I'm already a big fan of their workout plans, so the training plan definitely looked like my kinda plan.  It takes you from running a 5k to a 10k, and finally a half marathon.  It doesn't just include running, but also speed training (I NEED it!), cross training (I'll keep shaking my booty at Zumba!!) and strength (Hello, Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred).  

I'm making some changes to the plan to fit my current pace/mileage, as well as my schedule. Other than that, it seems very doable.  

I plan to start the REAL training October 15.