Need a different half marathon training schedule?

Amy_B

I completed my first half on 6/4/11. I did Hal Higdon's Novice plan. Here are some things I didn't like that I would like to do differently this time around...

I would like to have my long run be 12+ miles instead of 10. The last 3 miles in my last race were difficult. I feel that getting closer to 13.1 miles for training would help.

I would like some strength days built in. I know Hal's did have those, but other programs I have seen have none. I am mostly trying to concentrate on firming up now along with adding in my running and other cardio.

Because I do almost all of my training outside (not on a track), I am unsure of how to best do speed work. I need help figuring out the best way to do this without a treadmill or a track.

So, what programs do you think will fit this? Any tried-and-true ones you've used? If it matters, I average a 10minute mile and wouldn't mind being a bit faster.