13.1 in 8 months. Enough time to train?

Rocbola

I can currently run a 5K but no more. My Dad posted on his Facebook that he registered for a half marathon in November. I was thinking of joining him, but have never run that far. I would really like to have something to train for, to keep me on track all summer.

So here's the question: Is it realistic for someone who has never run a half marathon to be able to run one in 8 months?

brianpperkins

Plenty of time. Higdon, Galloway, and others have beginner plans that will get you ready for that distance. Just train intelligently ... build your distance slowly, don't worry about speed at first, and enjoy the run.

Rocbola

Thank you, i was thinking the same thing about starting slowly.

dschassie

Absolutely! 8 months is plenty and one big thing you'll have on your side is the adrenaline that will kick in when you're running with the crowd - it'll make you feel like you are floating I also find myself pushing harder during races than training runs, just to show myself who is boss! And if all fails, just keep telling yourself that even when walking the course at a fast pace, you can finish it within the time limit. There is nothing wrong with taking a break after a few miles and walking a bit.

Good luck, do this, set yourself this awesome goal and then experience the sheer joy of crossing the finish line!

Rocbola

Thank you!

KristiRTT

I trained from 0.0 to 13.1 in 6 months and was absolutely fine. I second the Hal Hidgon training plans recommendation. I am currently training for my first 26.2 using his novice 1 plan and I really like the setup. You increase mileage for 2 weeks and then cutback for a week. It helps to keep you strong! Good luck on your race!

jenilla1

Way more than enough time! Have fun!

donrdon

You bet, you've got plenty of time. Most programs for the 1/2 are 12 weeks long. So track one down (I liked Hal Higdon) and start running 2 to 3 times a week now. It'll help if you can run for a continuous 3 miles when you start the program. You can do this, good luck.

Rocbola

Thanks guys! And i pulled up the Hal Higdon plan online; i think i'll base my own plan on it. I will be simultaneously training for a long 7 day bike ride acrosss Iowa in July, so i will be incorporating cycling a lot in the first 4 months, and i'll have to make my own plan.

Chieflrg

I ran 2 halfs on back to back days over the weekend with less than three months training without ever running before. It can be done.

Zekela

That's even enough time to train for a marathon given your base. You'll do awesome!

czmmom

I agree with everyone else! Plenty of time to train. Lots of training plans out there to choose from. I used marathonrookie's plan and tweaked it to make it my own. Have heard great things about higdon and galloway's plans as well. Good luck!!