Half Marathon!

MorrisnFitness
MorrisnFitness Posts: 3 Member
in Health and Weight Loss
Hey everyone! I decided to do a half marathon in December (FIRST TIMER!) with my older sister who is a runner. For a typical training, should I be increasing my run at least a mile longer every week?? I know I’m supposed to alternate between short runs and longer runs during the week. The most I’ve ever ran is 8 miles - & I notice my pace is all over the place and I feel like stopping mid run. Anyways I have 4 months to get this down. Any advice would be amazing!!

SN: I prefer strength training/lifting weights over running. I just want to be good at both overall. 😬

Replies

  • littlegreenparrot1
    littlegreenparrot1 Posts: 706 Member
    There are lots of free programmes available online- sounds like you need one that's maybe 5k or 10k to half marathon.

    I find the structure of a programme helpful as someone else has done the thinking for you.
    Usually there's 3 or 4 runs week. A shorter run with intervals, a long run where you increase the distance, and one or two extra steady paced ones.

    It's also worth starting from a point that's a bit lower than where you think your at, that way you build up slowly and learn a pace that you can sustain. Start by going slow, you'll speed up as you go along.
    Its up to you of course but I wouldn't worry about times for now and would concentrate on increasing the distance.

    General rule of thumb is you don't increase more than 10% a week.

    Be warned, it's a slippery slope once you get started :D
  • DoubleG2
    DoubleG2 Posts: 130 Member
    Follow a training plan - I like Higdon's: https://www.halhigdon.com/training-programs/half-marathon-training/novice-1-half-marathon/

    You're right on the edge of not having enough time to train properly. You should also consider continuing to cross-training on your 'rest' days.
  • spiriteagle99
    spiriteagle99 Posts: 3,767 Member
    Following a training plan will allow you to build your mileage steadily with less chance of overdoing. Basically you want to increase your overall mileage, not just your long runs. The stronger your base, the easier it will be to do your longer runs and the better race day will go. I found a huge difference between running 25 miles a week and running 35. Your long runs should not be more than 50% of your total weekly mileage and it is better if they are less than 30%.

    If your paces are all over the place, you are probably trying to run too fast. Slow down, a lot. Your finishing miles should be as fast or faster than the early miles of your run. If there is a significant slow down, you are going too fast.
  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    Another for following a training plan. It'll take all of the guess work out of the equation. My wife doesn't do halves anymore, but she's done quite a few and even with experience she always followed a guided plan. I believe my wife did Higdon's as referenced above.
  • sarah7591
    sarah7591 Posts: 415 Member
    I have done several half marathons and am training for two more (I'm 64!) I do the Jeff Galloway method of training. It is run/walk method. You actually go faster with this method than just running! It is easier on your body and joints! Trust me this is the only way I can keep on running! Google Jeff Galloway. You only run/walk 3x a week. Two times you just run 30 minutes and the third is your long run. So doable!
    Also this link may work:
    http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/half-marathon-training/
    You can do this! I am training again right now for a half in November and December. PM me for if you have more questions!
  • Mrscanmore
    Mrscanmore Posts: 866 Member
    I second the run/ walk method. I always use it for my long runs.
  • sweetdaisy13
    sweetdaisy13 Posts: 357 Member
    If you can, try and follow a training plan or join a local running club for extra motivation. The most important thing though, is to enjoy it. If you do too much at the start you may burn out and end up quitting before race day.

    So, increase your mileage gradually and in time it will become easier. Also, mix it up by running on different terrain and running different routes if you can. It makes it more interesting.

    I'm a long distance trail runner (I prefer marathon/Ultra marathon distances) and I don't get many opportunities to run due to work, family commitments etc, so have never been able to follow any plans. I run 2-3 times a week, but in-between I cross train by doing Rebounding sessions, plus isometric hold exercises. These workouts really help my running and help me to stay injury free, despite not being able to train as much as other runners.

    If you do have access to a Rebounder/Trampoline, it is a great workout, less impact on the joints and does wonders in terms of strengthening your ankles and Achilles for running.

    Good luck in your training.

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