We are pleased to announce that on March 4, 2025, an updated Rich Text Editor will be introduced in the MyFitnessPal Community. To learn more about the upcoming changes, please click here. We look forward to sharing this new feature with you!

Half Marathon in 9 months?

WhiskyMania
WhiskyMania Posts: 27 Member
edited February 10 in Fitness and Exercise
I'd like to set myself a goal for this year and I was thinking of signing up for a half marathon in September. My idea was to run a 5km in March and then a 10km in May/June time and training in between.

I've ran a couple of 10ks 18 months ago and I can do it, if I train. However, I'm now 2 stone heavier than I was 18 months ago and I went and did a slow 3k tonight and almost died (shameful).

Do you think I'm setting myself a realistic goal here, if I train and get my big fat @rse back into shape?

Are the C25K, C210K etc good starters?

Replies

  • MrsK20141004
    MrsK20141004 Posts: 489 Member
    I love Couch to 5k! Its a great program! I am working on my first half as well, but I'm skipping the 10k and just going for it. I'm using a beginners training program for distances and following the Running Room 10 and 1 method. I did my 2nd 4-mile run yesterday and it felt great. My half is in May :)
  • bobbijodmb
    bobbijodmb Posts: 463 Member
    I think its possible. I am training for one in 5 months =) THought about it in November and did some early light training and then fully decided in December.

    in 7 weeks of training I have been able to work up to running 6 miles on my long run day =)

    I downloaded a program through map my run- map my run training and they have a couch to half marathon training.

    You can do it =)
  • rduhlir
    rduhlir Posts: 3,550 Member
    It is possible, but make sure you are bringing in short term goals to help you on your way. Focus on the C25K, then move up to B210K, then a beginner's HM program.

    As for the weight, you will need to focus on a calorie deficit there. The running will help, but you can't out run a bad diet.
  • wombat94
    wombat94 Posts: 352 Member
    It is entirely doable.

    What you are describing is very similar to what I did two years ago.

    I started C25K in January. Ran my first 5K on St. Patrick's day in March. I ran my first 10K on July 4th and then my first HM on August 4 - so it was about 7 months for me total.

    I agree with the recommendations of others...

    C25K
    B210K
    Then a beginner's HM program (I did Hal Higdon's Novice 2 plan).

    Be smart about it and listen to your body. It seems like a short period of time, but 9 months gives you plenty of time... if your body is telling you to cut back, ease off for a few days or a week here or there. Especially for beginners or less experienced runners, paying attention to small aches and pains is better than trying to run through something and giving yourself a significant injury.

    Ted
This discussion has been closed.

Categories