u/BaconMemories

I have fallen in love with running over the past several months, after making a promise to myself to take better care of myself and my health in 2026. I am steadily increasing my mileage and speed—and am super proud of myself!

But I’m also hoping to get to a lower weight. I know everyone can overestimate calorie burn and underestimate calorie intake—so I haven’t been factoring in the burn calories my Apple Watch tracks and rather sticking to a certain, set calorie goal for the week (lower) and then for the weekend (higher). This has worked for me in the past and was recommended by a nurse.

Problem is, I’m hungry!! And I think I am simply burning enough energy that my body needs more food. So I’m blowing off my calorie goals altogether far too often.

Does anyone have any tried and true strategies that have worked? Counting half of what your watch estimates you burn?

I love eating. I love drinking. I love running. I’d also love to slim down a bit as part of my overall work on my health. Thank you!!

After some rough times, I decided that 2026 was going to be my year to focus on improving my health…especially as I stare down turning 40 in early October of this year. Overall, things have been going pretty well! I haven’t lost as much weight as I’d like but I’m definitely stronger, cut down on wine and cocktails (most of the time), and eating well.

In addition to some admittedly light strength training, I started running again. Finished my first 5k a few months ago in about 30 minutes, which was a big deal for me. And, after taking a few weeks just to do some fun runs and random Pilates classes, I’m now in the middle of Peloton’s 10k program (which is hard!).

Even though I sort of hate the 2x/week speed classes in that program, I feel pretty confident that I’ll finish and be comfortable running 10ks in June—which I would be very proud of!

Thing is, I have gotten a bug in my brain about running a half marathon before turning 40. I found one in late September that would work well, timing wise.

I’m also a mom of two little ones with a tough job (not that those are particularly unique blessings/challenges!) so like to be practical that I may not be able to stick to a super regimented schedule.

But for those who have gone from 10ks to a half marathon, would 3ish months be enough to get up my mileage even if I need to skip a day or two/week due to life?

I was looking at the Peloton program, which I believe is all outdoors. Any advice on that one or others (or just strategies) would be appreciated!